Classic Vape Gear That Stands the Test of Time
With vaping technology advancing steadily over time - and hundreds of devices being released every year - you’d expect old devices to fade slowly into the background.
For the most part, that’s exactly what happens. However, a handful of devices remain popular, year after year. And while those devices may not match the battery life and user features of the best modern devices, there’s usually something special about them that keeps people using them year after year.
So, in honour of those who are not chasing every new release, here’s a look at some classic vape gear that has genuinely stood the test of time.
The iStick 30W: Straightforward and reliable
When I saw the iStick 30W come back into stock after years away, I had to check when I’d last written about it. It turned out to be 2019. And yet, here it was again, still with a loyal following.
The appeal is simple. It’s easy to use, dependable, and works with a standard 510 connection. That means it pairs with almost any tank you can think of, with the possible exception of some more obscure direct-lung options.
With a power range of 5 to 30 watts, it handles mouth-to-lung vaping comfortably in the 12 to 20 watt range, but you can also push it a bit harder for a restricted direct-lung vape.
There’s nothing fancy here. A small screen, basic variable wattage, no unnecessary extras. But if all you want is a straightforward device that just gets on with the job, it’s hard to argue with.
The Adept Zlide: Big, tough and powerful
It sometimes feels like every new vape device aims to be thinner, lighter, and more pocket-friendly than the last. That’s fine if you want something discreet, but it’s not ideal if you need something tough and long-lasting.
That’s where the Adept Zlide really shines.
This is a proper mod and tank setup, but one designed to be as simple as possible. The mod automatically selects the correct wattage for the coil you’re using, removing the need to hunt for a sweet spot.
It’s also built like a tank. Waterproof, dustproof, and shockproof, it’s a favourite for outdoor use and work environments where fragile pod kits don’t last long. Even now, its 3000mAh battery capacity is impressive, and few modern systems truly outperform it in real-world use.
The PockeX: Simply the best throat hit
Pen-style kits might feel old-fashioned in today’s market, but the PockeX remains one of the most popular devices we sell in our shops. It’s been widely copied, but arguably never bettered.
Often recommended as a starter kit, it actually sits in a sweet spot between power and portability. That’s why so many experienced vapers still use one alongside newer devices.
It’s solid, reliable, and delivers a genuinely satisfying throat hit. (It works especially well with menthol, which is why it was one of my favourite devices for several years.) If you’ve ever used one, you’ll know exactly what I mean by the distinctive little ‘pop’ when you first press the button.
Die-hard fans will also point out its main weakness. The tank can crack if you’re unlucky. A simple vape band adds a bit of protection and is well worth using.
The Aspire Nautilus Mini tank: Cool metal vape
The Aspire Nautilus Mini tank has been around for so long that it feels almost timeless.
Aspire has released countless updates and variations over the years, yet the original refuses to lose its audience. In fact, many modern tanks and even pod systems are still designed to work with Nautilus coils.
It’s hard to pinpoint exactly why it remains so popular, but for me, it’s partly about feel. The cold metal of the Nautilus paired with a Coolfire mod somehow delivers a cooler vape, which works particularly well with menthol e-liquids.
Sometimes familiarity and consistency count for more than raw performance.
The Cigalike: Just like a cigarette
We’ve been selling cigalikes since 2008 – and they still fly out. Sure, the performance has come a long way, but the design is pretty much the same.
Now, not many people start with cigalikes these days, but many people who started with them (some more than a decade ago) have had every opportunity to try new devices – but still stick to their cigalike.
They are super easy to use, incredibly light, and look just like a cigarette, making it an ideal choice for people who miss the look and feel of smoking.
Aspire CE5: Familiar and affordable
It’s been a long time since I regularly used a CE5 tank, but plenty of people still swear by them.
Much of that loyalty comes down to familiarity and affordability. They’re easy to replace, straightforward to use, and do exactly what they’re supposed to do without fuss.
They might not be fashionable, but they’ve earned their place.
Reviewers own trusty devices
Constantly putting the latest technology through rigorous testing, we reached out to some reviewers and found that, unsurprisingly, they often have an old favourite to hand too ...
V-Mod - by Jim, Vaping360
I still do about half of my vaping on a flimsy plastic-and-aluminum mech squonker called the VMod. In fact, I love this 2010-vintage vape so much that when the manufacturer (Vapage) blew out the remaining inventory, I bought 15 of the mods, and 150 beautiful -- and delicious! -- Vapage 510 atomizers. I get about four months from each atty (it would be less if I vaped them exclusively), and the mods usually last a year or more with cautious handling, so at age 59 I think I’m set for a lifetime of perfect 10 watt MTL vaping. When other vapers see my old school mod wrapped with electrical tape to prevent slips, they usually laugh. But I’m a happy man.
Eleaf iStick TC40 - by Toby, E-Juice Review
An older vape that I often still grab is my Blue Eleaf iStick TC40. This was my first box mod and holds big sentimental value to me. Despite owning a stack of different devices since then, this is something I regularly pick up and vape on. The internal battery is still going strong and charges fine, although the display light is no longer as bright as it was back in 2015.
This device is mostly paired up with the tank I bought back at the same time; the Aspire Nautilus Mini. A great tank that has lasted well and I know I am not the only vaper that still uses it today. The coils last well with good flavour, and it is pretty unbeatable for a very decent mouth-to-lung vape.
If both this mod and tank broke tomorrow, I'd definitely find another to buy.
Handmade Mod - by Mark, Soul Ohm Reviews
My favourite old vape? Well that has to be my punchbox unregulated parallel handmade box mod made by True Mods.
Tony from True Mods made me this back in 2015 and I still love it to bits. Not just because a friend made me the mod but because it’s very simple and basic, with no wattage adjustment, no menu, no screen, no silly temp control - just straight power from two 18650 batteries, Fat Daddy 510 on top, miTEC switch and a Mosfet.
A very simple box mod which has never let me down.
Aspire Cleito - by Jonny, E-Cig Click
Despite being regularly told (even 2 years ago) that I needed to 'get a better tank' I've found myself repeatedly going back to the original Aspire Cleito tank, despite actually using better performers. Yeah, maybe I need my head testing, but I just know what I'm getting, I know how much e-liquid it goes through and it's rarely skipped a beat.
This would often be sat on top of a battered looking CoolFire 4 TC100 which is actually still holding up well despite its tatty appearance.
I finally (talking a few weeks ago) made the switch... to the Cleito Pro! Ha... I'm a creature of habit... Or maybe because I can't bear to see the box full of Cleito coils I've amassed over the years gathering dust. I'm sure this will also be classed as an old favourite soon as well.
What else will last?
Vape devices will always come and go, but the ones that endure tend to share a few key traits.
They’re simple. They’re reliable. And they deliver consistent flavour and vapour without demanding constant attention.
Maybe that’s the real lesson here. Fancy features come and go, but the devices people truly stick with are the ones that quietly do their job well.