What Is the Difference Between Vape Mods and Pod Kits?

Vaping has seen a surge in popularity over the last decade. Technological changes mean that what we have today is almost unrecognizable from what was available just ten years ago. E-liquid varieties are blossoming to the point it’s difficult to keep up, while new modifications and mechanics are heralding in vaping’s much-anticipated 4th generation. 

Trying to keep up with what’s new in the vaping world can be bewildering, and even differentiating between the two most popular categories - vape mods and mod kits - is challenging. With that in mind, let’s take a closer look at these two vaping juggernauts. What’s the difference between them, and what advantages and disadvantages do they have?

What Are Vape Mods?

Vape mods - short for modifications - are the highly customizable titans of the vaping world. They come with a higher power output and increased functionality, meaning vapers have greater control over their vaping experience.

Mods have been around since 2010, but the inspiration for them, to some degree at least, were the trailblazers of the previous decade who began tinkering with their vapes to alter various aspects of vaping, such as vapour density, flavour, and throat hit.

Today, mods are known for their bulky shape that houses a rechargeable battery and its tank and coil. Many mods also have functionalities that enable the user to adjust the temperature, voltage, and wattage while having displays that keep track of battery life and various internal components.

Vape mods are popular among those who like a more personal vaping experience. Their compatibility with a wide range of tanks and coils means the owner can craft how they vape in a way other vapes can’t. If you've seen impressive videos from Vaper Expo or other vape conventions with titanic clouds of vapour billowing skywards, these are all done with vape mods.

What Are Vape Pod Kits?

If vape mods are the customizable behemoths of the vaping world, vape pod kits are the uber-cool, sleek sports car. These are simple and easy to use, designed for convenience and portability rather than customization. 

Vape pod kits typically have two parts: the battery and the pod, which houses the coil, tank, and e-liquid. Pod kits are either open pod devices, where the e-liquid can be refilled, or closed pod devices, where they can’t, meaning the pod is essentially disposable once the vape juice runs out. 

Vape pod kits are not about bells and whistles. They have a simple operation that doesn’t overcomplicate things, generally with a standard single-button control. What they lack in customizability, they make up for in size and simplicity - easy to use for those new to vaping and discrete and convenient enough for on the go. With this in mind, it’s easy to understand why vape mod kits are so popular for beginner vapers or those tryingto quit smoking.

What Are the Key Differences Between Vape Mods and Pod Kits?

Customization and Performance

If we’re talking about customization, vape mods and pod kits are the two extremes, and which you choose depends on what you’re looking for. Vape mods are all about customization and functionality. They allow users to adjust various settings and swap out components to create a completely unique experience. 

Pod kits, on the other hand, fall on the opposite side of the spectrum. They usually have zero customization options, but that’s often why they’re so popular. These vapes provide excellent and consistent performance for those who just want to keep things simple.

Ease of Use

One of the significant drawbacks of vape mods, especially for beginners, is their complexity. It can be a little overwhelming when faced with an array of buttons and an LED screen showing various numbers and gauges. Yes, they provide a great experience for those who know what they’re doing, and you do get the hang of them quite quickly - but they aren’t always easy to use straight out of the box. Perfect for experienced vapers, but not so much for newbies. 

Pods kits, however, are easy to use right out of the gate - that’s part of their beauty. Even those with limited knowledge or experience of vaping can get started immediately. If you’re new to vaping, try a pod kit first.

Portability

Let’s be honest: even the bulkiest vapes aren’t exactly difficult to carry around, but the difference in size and weight between vape mods and pod kits can be surprising. Pod kits are typically small, slender, and lightweight - easy to slip into a pocket or purse. 

Vape mods are the biggest vapes around - all that functionality, and those spare batteries and tanks come with a size premium. You may not want to be walking around all day with one shoved into your jeans pocket, but if you have a large bag with you, it’s absolutely fine.

Are Vape Pod Kits Good for Beginners?

Yes. Pods kits are the ideal starting point if you’re just starting out in vaping. They’re easy to use, require no maintenance, and can be up and running the moment you unpack them, even if it’s your first time. Having pre-filled pods also makes life significantly easier, as you won’t have to face those nervy refills when you seem to get more juice on the floor than in your tank.

Which Is Best for You?

This depends on your preference, experience, and what you hope to get from it. If you’re looking for portability, convenience, and simplicity without any genuine desire for customization, definitely go for the pod kits. However, if you’re a more experienced vaper looking to maximize the experience, mod kits allow you to vape in new and exciting ways.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Mods Better Than Vapes?

There’s no “better” here. The entire argument between mods and pods is subjective and simply comes down to what you’re looking for in vape: customization and functionality or ease of use and portability.

What Is the Difference Between a Pod Kit and a Pen Kit?

Pen kits are akin to a middle ground between pod kits and mod kits. They don’t offer complete customizability but have a few features that allow the vapee to tinker with a number of settings, unlike the pod kit, which typically comes with a single option. 

Final Thoughts

As the 4th generation kicks into gear, it’s an exciting time for vape innovation. Both extremes in the market, those who crave simplicity and consistency and those who yearn for functionality and customization, have plenty to look forward to. Whether you’re a die-hard mod fan who loves nothing more than perfecting the art of vaping or a busy bee who wants something easy that can fit comfortably in a pocket, there have never been so many available options.

Relx offers a wide variety of high-quality vaping products and an outstanding selection of the best flavours on the market. Our pod kits are discreet, easy to use, and stylish while not cutting any corners regarding performance and quality. Whatever your preference, we’ve got what you’re looking for.