Best Vape Devices for Heavy Smokers 2025 (UK)
This website wouldn’t exist if my mum hadn’t been a heavy smoker.
It was she who came across a basic cigalike device in 2008. Fortunately, for her it worked, and she hasn’t had a single (tobacco!) cigarette since.
That simple device has helped tens of thousands of smokers switch from tobacco to vaping.
It didn’t work for everyone. But since then both vape technology and our understanding of what helps people switch has come on immensely. What's more, studies in smoking cessation like this now suggest vaping is more effective than nicotine replacement therapy.
In previous posts, we’ve looked at the best overall vape kits and best vape kits for new vapers. In this post we’ll be drilling down a bit further and looking at the best devices for a heavy smoker.
You’ll also find the factors you need to consider - based on both research and 16+ years of experience working with smokers who want to switch to vaping.
Also see: Which Vape Kit Should You Buy?
Contents
- Top Picks
- Best closed pod systems
- Best open pod systems
- Best mod & pod mod kits
- Best vapes for heavy smokers at a glance
- Factors to consider when choosing a vape
- Related guides
Top Picks
Beginner-friendly mod kit | Cigarette-style inhale | Strong throat hit
Best for: Restricted inhale/throat hit
Read more below
Prefilled, rechargeable kit | Beginner-friendly design | Cost-effective disposable alternative
Best for: Disposable-style flavour & inhale
Read more below
Best closed pod systems for heavy smokers
SKE Crystal CL6000: Long-lasting, disposable-style flavour
Reviewed by: Corey, ECD Team
The SKE Crystal CL6000 would make a perfect option for new vapers or those looking for an easy-to-use, cost-effective alternative to disposable devices.
While I initially found setting up the kit a little confusing, once I’d consulted the instructions it wasn’t too difficult and using the device is very easy. Being plastic, the build quality isn’t fantastic but was as I’d expected for a kit of this price.
The best thing about the CL6000 kit is the flavour. Using the Sour Pineapple pod, the taste was excellent and even better than you’d get from a disposable device. While I found the airflow a little restricted for my preference, It would be perfect for disposable users, especially fans of SKE Crystal Bar.
The 800mAh battery lasted me most of the day before needing to be recharged, yet I did think that if this was increased to 1000mAh it could comfortably last over 24 hours of use.
Overall, at less than £20 for a full kit and pack of replacement pods, this is a great option for those looking for a cost-effective, reusable disposable alternative and a perfect starter kit. However, I’d suggest users eventually move on to a refillable device for maximum cost savings.
Elf Bar Elfa Pro: Easy to use, disposable-style flavour
Reviewed by: Lloyd, ECD Team
If you’re familiar with Elf Bar disposables, the Elfa Pro device has all the convenience and flavour you’d expect - just in a replaceable, prefilled pod format.
The device is easy to use, and similar to disposables, with the main difference being that you can replace the pod when it’s empty. The battery can also be recharged, and the clear RGB indicator light at the bottom lets you know when the battery is running low.
The inhale firing activation is ultra-convenient and I found it very responsive and easy to inhale
The build quality of this device is excellent and, being made from metal, feels far superior to Elf Bar disposables.
Testing the device using the Blue Sour Raspberry pod, I found the flavour was great and the set airflow produced a surprising amount of vapour for such a compact device.
Using the device straight from the box, I found I had to recharge it before the end of the day (probably due to the battery not being fully charged at first). However, when I’d fully recharged the battery it comfortably lasted a full day.
There are over 30 Elfa Pro pod flavours to choose from and, as an added bonus, the device is also compatible with Elfa and Lost Mary Tappo pods - offering even more options.
Best open pod systems for heavy smokers
Vaporesso Xros 4: Best for flavour
Reviewed by: Corey, ECD Team
As a longtime fan of the Vaporesso Xros Series, I had high expectations for the Xros 4 device - and it didn’t disappoint. In my opinion, this is the best pod kit on the market.
The first thing I noticed was the impressive build quality. Being aluminium alloy, this feels a lot more solid and premium than other pod kits.
I always expect great flavour from Xros devices, but the addition of adjustable power levels made it even better with the Xros 4. Using the 0.6ohm Xros pod at output level 3, the flavour was the best I’ve experienced.
This additional power did mean sacrificing some pod and battery life (although the 1000mAh battery still lasted 6 hours of heavy use), so I eventually settled on the middle setting.
I also noticed a big improvement when charging - with a much quicker charging time compared to previous Xros kits. I like that the charging port is situated at the side of the device, which is always more convenient than a bottom-placed port.
Overall, this is a fantastic pod device with some great new features. I’d personally recommend the Xros 4 for vapers of all experience levels. However, if you’d prefer something even more easy to use, there’s always the Xros 4 Mini (see below).
Smok Novo Master: Easy-to-use, precise airflow control
Reviewed by: Lloyd, ECD Team
I’m very impressed with Smok’s Novo Master kit; it has everything I look for in a pod vape - from its design to its battery life, flavour and versatility.
Firstly, the metal alloy build feels solid and robust in my hand which is always a bonus. I also liked that you get the choice of either inhale or button-activated firing. This, combined with the adjustable airflow feature gives this device the versatility I look for when choosing a pod kit.
I tested the Novo Master using the 0.6ohm pod with VG:PG 50:50 e-liquid and took advantage of the Boost Mode feature. When activated, this increased the wattage to 30W and created a noticeable increase in both flavour and vapour.
The only downside to using Boost mode was the cost of some extra battery life. Despite this, as a moderate vaper who uses around 4ml e-liquid daily, the 1000mAh battery still lasted a full day on a single charge so was great for using when out and about.
Finally, the pods’ top-filling design means they were easy to top up and I found they fit snugly into the device with no leaking.
Overall, this is a great MTL pod kit and would be particularly suited to vapers who value great flavour and want a no-fuss device with long-lasting battery.
Also see: The Novo Master Box for a square-shaped version.
Aspire PockeX: Best device for replicating throat hit
Reviewed by: James, ECD Team
My first introduction to a cigarette-filter-style device was the Innokin Filtr. I loved the device, but unfortunately, problems emerged with the bung and the tank fit.
Fortunately, Aspire followed up with the Viltr, which captured the benefits of the Filtr without its drawbacks.
And what are those benefits? It’s the filter tip - a drip tip which fits neatly into the mouthpieces and perfectly replicates the feel of a cigarette in your mouth. It also delivers a restricted Mouth-to-Lung vape which I found very similar to that of a cigarette.
The filters do need replacing from time to time (each one will last around two to three refills) - but if you get tired of replacing them, you also have the option of using the simple mouthpiece.
I’m not sure I’d recommend this device for long-term use however. While it’s super light, the trade off is a 450mAh battery, meaning it’s going to struggle to provide all-day use unless you are a light user. The filling could also be easier. But if you are looking to replicate the sensory feel of a cigarette, this device is hard to beat.
Oxva Oneo: Beginner-friendly MTL/DL kit
Reviewed by: Corey, ECD Team
The Oxva Oneo pod kit ticks all the boxes of what I look for in a vape device - particularly flavour, quality and battery life.
While the Oneo is slightly larger than most fixed-coil pod kits, this does accommodate a larger-than-usual 1600mAh battery and the device is still easy to use with fixed-coil pods and automatic power settings.
The metal-design build quality is excellent and the customisable RGB light display was a nice, eye-catching touch.
Using the included 0.8ohm Oneo pod with nic salts, the flavour produced was one of the best I’ve ever experienced from a pod device (due to Oxva’s flavour-enhancing Unicoil tech).
Although I prefer a Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) vape style, I like the fact there are pods to support Direct-Lung (DL) and restricted Direct-Lung (RDL) inhales. This is perfect if you like to switch up your vape style without swapping devices and for newer vapers who may want to experiment in future without having to buy a new kit.
(Find out more about different vaping inhale styles in our vaping style section below.)
The Oneo pods’ fixed-coil design is ultra convenient but, as I’m more used to devices that use top-filling pods, I did find the filling process (removing the metal cap and the rubber bung) a little frustrating. However, this is the only small flaw I noticed with this device. While having to remove the metal cover to get to the pod can be a little inconvenient it does offer extra protection to the pod itself.
For former smokers, a long-lasting battery is key as it means less charging (and temptation to go back to cigarettes). As a heavy vaper, I was really impressed with the battery life of this device - easily lasting me a full day between charges. The colour-coded indicator also made it easy to monitor battery life.
Overall, this is a great pod kit that could work for vapers of all experience levels and inhale styles - particularly those who value convenience, flavour, and battery life.
Best mod and pod mod kits for heavy smokers
Innokin Endura T22 Pro: Easy-to-use mod kit, great battery life
Reviewed by: Corey, ECD Team
With its easy-to-use design, restricted inhale and strong throat hit, the Endura T22 Pro makes it a great option for smokers looking for a no-fuss introduction to mod vaping.
I found both the mod and tank to have great build quality and the 4-level power output (9.5 - 13.5W) offers customisation over your vape. The battery life is also excellent, with the 3000mAh battery comfortably lasting me 2 days of use.
The included Prism T18E tank provides a tight, restricted draw with a strong throat hit. This, combined with the feel of the mouthpiece, provides a vape very similar to cigarette smoking. However, the tank doesn’t have adjustable airflow control so wouldn’t be suitable if you prefer a more airy vape.
While the Endura T22 Pro isn’t the most advanced or powerful mod kit out there, overall, it makes a perfect choice for first-time vapers switching from smoking.
Smok IPX80: Tough, good looks & versatility
Aesthetics is often not considered when switching from smoking to vaping, but that’s a mistake. If something feels great to hold and is great to look at, you’re more likely to use it than a device that looks like it’s been designed by a chemist.
For great aesthetics, the Smok IPX80 is well worth considering. It looks great and is a pleasure to hold. But there’s more to this device than pure aesthetics.
First of all, it’s tough! Rated IPX67, the device is resistant to water, shocks and dust - making it a great option for those who spend a lot of time outdoors and need a device that can withstand the elements.
It’s also a versatile device that allows you to experiment. The IPX80 can be used with different resistance coils and has a wider power range than other devices here - 1- 80 watts. That means it’s great for vapers who want to experiment, and who want a device for the long term. You can start off with a tight, restricted vape which is more similar to a cigarette, but then progress to the looser, airier vape preferred by many long-term vapers.
Related: Vape Pod Buying Guide | Pod Mods Buying Guide
Eleaf iStick Power 2: Great battery life
The iStick Power 2 mod kit stands out for its superb battery life. This eliminates the need for frequent charging and is a great feature for those former heavy smokers who can’t be without their vape for too long.
The 80W mod and tank combo features a huge 5000mAh battery that can power the device for a day or more between charges. The device is packed with intelligent features and modes that allow you to customise your vaping and appeal to vapers of varying experience levels.
The iStick Power 2 mod has a choice of 3 vaping modes to suit different levels of expertise while the included GTL pod tank supports both MTL and DL vaping styles. You can further tailor your vape between an airy, cloud-filled vape or a more restricted cigarette-style draw using the pod tank’s adjustable airflow ring.
Best vapes for heavy smokers at a glance
| Device | Type | What’s special? |
| SKE Crystal Bar | Disposable | No-fuss vaping |
| SKE Crystal CL6000 | Closed pod system | Long-lasting, disposable-style flavour |
| Elf Bar Elfa Pro | Closed pod system | Disposable-style flavour |
| Vaporesso Xros 4 | Open pod system | Best for flavour |
| Smok Novo Master | Open pod system | Easy-to-use, precise airflow control |
| Aspire PockeX | Open pod system | Best for throat hit |
| Oxva ONEO | Open pod system | Beginner-friendly MTL/DL kit |
| Innokin Endura T22 Pro | Mod kit | Easy-to-use mod, great battery life |
| Smok IPX80 | Pod mod | Tough, good looks & versatility |
| Eleaf iStick Power 2 | Mod kit | Great battery life |
Factors to consider for heavy smokers
Nicotine delivery
The biggest factor in switching to vaping is the amount of nicotine you get. That’s even more important for heavy smokers. At the time of writing, this is limited to 20mg (2%), although in practice this is usually capped at 18mg.
You might think that the more power in your device, the more nicotine you will get from your e-liquid. That’s not necessarily true.
Low-powered devices can be used with high-nicotine e-liquids. However, high-powered devices are used with lower nicotine e-liquids, as you get more nicotine with each puff. It all tends to balance out.
If you’re starting out, though, we recommend using a low-powered device with a high-nicotine e-liquid, as this ties in with other recommendations here (ease of use and vape style).
Related: How to choose the right e-liquid nicotine strength
Throat hit for heavy smokers
Many heavy smokers miss the throat hit smoking gives them when they switch to vaping. So it’s important to choose a device that can give you a good throat hit.
To get a good throat hit, you usually need to use a higher resistance coil. These typically have a resistance of 1Ω or higher, although some modern devices may go a bit lower.
You don’t need a high wattage range when you are using high-resistance coils. Kits with a range of 10-25 watts are perfect.
It’s important to use the right VG:PG ratio. Halo Vapour Co. has a VG:PG ratio of 50:50, which gives the perfect throat hit for most users. Menthol Blast has a particularly good throat hit which is ideal for switching to vaping. If you need something even stronger, try Vapemate, which has a VG:PG ratio of 30:70 for a super strong throat hit.
If you find the throat hit too harsh, it’s probably worth trying nicotine salts. These allow you to combine high nicotine content with a smooth sensation on the back of the throat.
Alternatively, you might want to use a combination of regular (freebase) e-liquid and nicotine salts. These hybrid e-liquids have a great balance between the smoothness of a nicotine salt and the harsher throat hit of a regular e-liquid. Nicotine salts are provided by the Hexa devices and Hexa pods, as well as in the Riot Squad S:ALTS range.
Learn more about throat hit when vaping.
Adjustable airflow
Some vape devices come with adjustable airflow, which allows you to choose between a loose, airy vape or a tighter or more restricted vape. We’ve found that this is especially valued by new vapers who used to use roll their own cigarettes and like being able to mimic the effect of a tightly/loosely rolled cigarette.
Some starter pod systems have a pod that can be removed and rotated 180 degrees to switch between a tight or loose vape. Other methods, such as a wheel, allow more precise control. The main takeaway is that if you like to vary the airiness of your cigarette/vape, make sure your device has adjustable airflow.
Vape style (Mouth-to-Lung or Direct-Lung)
inhale vapour differently to how you smoke. Instead of a short, sharp inhale, you inhale slowly and steadily. (It’s important not to inhale air at the same time).
That’s further divided into two main vape styles. Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) is when you inhale into your mouth, hold it there for a second or so, and then inhale it into your lungs. Direct-Lung (DL) is when you inhale in a steady stream directly into your lungs.
Most heavy smokers prefer MTL when they first start vaping, as it’s closer to smoking. However, if you want to experiment, it’s worth getting a device which can deliver both MTL or DL.
Best vape juice flavours for switching to vaping
Several studies have shown that people who switch to vaping with non-tobacco flavours are more likely to succeed in switching. So our number one tip here is to use a non-tobacco flavour if you can.
That said, it’s important to adjust what you use for your needs. If you’re desperate for a tobacco taste, consider trying something like Classic Virginia.
Alternatively, you might want to try a vape juice which is a crossover between tobacco and another flavour. This can help you to gently make the switch from tobacco to non-tobacco flavours.
Our favourites here include Vanilla Tobacco by Vampire Vape, and Doozy Vape Caramel Tobacco (salts). If you do end up using high VG e-liquids, a blend like The Mighty Mighty Cinnamon Tobacco gives more depth than a standard tobacco flavour.
Ease of use
While vape devices have been getting easier to use over the years, there is still a range of complexity with the devices. If you’re making the switch from a 20 a day habit to vaping, the last thing you want to do is fiddle with advanced settings while your body craves a cigarette.
Cigalikes and pod systems are some of the easiest devices to use, but most of the devices we’ve selected here have a relatively gentle learning curve. The exception is the Drag X Plus - the higher wattage ranges here mean there is a slightly steeper learning curve,. If you're starting with a device like this, it's important both to master priming coils and to use the correct power output.
Battery Life
If you’re using a device at home or in the office, you don’t need to worry about battery life too much. Indeed, many devices can be used while you charge them. (This is usually called ‘pass through’ vaping.)
If, however, you are out and about a lot, battery life is important. That’s especially the case if you are a heavy smoker, as you are likely to use the device more than a light smoker would.
Battery capacity is measured in mAh. The higher the mAh, the more capacity it can hold. But there’s also a playoff in terms of the wattage you use it at. If you’re using a high-resistance coil at lower wattages, you won’t use as much battery capacity. But if you’re using a low-resistance coil at high wattages, you’ll use more battery capacity.
Because of that, vapers who like big clouds of vapour often use 18650 batteries, which have a capacity of around 3000mAh. (Sometimes these are doubled up to provide around 6000mAh). But for lower-powered devices such as starter kits and basic pod systems, you don’t need anything like this. In fact, a 1000mAh battery will often last even a heavy smoker a day or more.
Learn more about vape batteries.
Remember, everyone is different
I’ve known people who switched from smoking to vaping after one vape. I’ve even known people who accidentally switched to vaping.
I’ve also known people who took months or even years to fully make the switch.
If it takes time, don’t be hard on yourself. There’s research that shows that even if you partially replace cigarettes with vaping, you’re still reducing the harm from smoking. The main point is not to give up trying to make the switch. If you are struggling, do check out these ten tips to help make the switch.