Choosing a Vape Kit? Why Refillable Might Beat Prefilled
In a post-disposable world, there’s essentially two choices when it comes to pod kits - prefilled or refillable.
While refillables usually have the edge on prefilled pod kits, in truth there’s not a one-size-fits all answer for vapers.
With 16 years helping vapers make the right choice, we’ll walk you through what actually matters - cost, convenience, flavour and more - so you can choose the right kit for your needs.
Which is more convenient?
Most vapers assume prefilled pods are more convenient than refillable devices because you don’t have to worry about refilling the pod.
But modern pods are super easy to refill. In fact, most of the time you don’t even have to remove the pod from the device - you simply insert the nozzle of the bottle into a filling port and squeeze.
You can also choose a refillable device that meets all your needs. Want auto-draw, fixed coil pods and leak-proof tech? There’s plenty of options that supply all this and more.
Verdict: Prefilled - if you prefer absolute simplicity. But let’s not overegg the difference - refillable devices are almost as easy.
Which has more flavour choice?
When it comes to flavour flexibility, refillable pods win hands down.
Prefilled pods might offer a few dozen flavours - but refillables give you access to thousands. Plus, you’re not locked into a single brand. Prefer one company’s menthol and another’s blue raspberry? No problem.
Prefilled pods often come with several dozen flavours to choose between, so you won’t be stuck with one flavour.
Verdict: If flavour choice matters, refillables are a no-brainer.
I found my favourite flavour years ago, before prefilled pods had even been invented! The new disposable style e-liquids are far too sweet for me - I prefer my e-liquid a little more subtle.
Jean, ECD Staff
Which offers better customisability?
Prefilled pod devices offer a one-size-fits-all vape.
Want an airier or tighter draw, more or less vapour, or a stronger throat hit? Tough luck - you’re stuck with whatever the manufacturer thinks you want.
Refillables are a different story. Many let you tweak airflow, power and pod type to get the exact inhale and flavour you’re looking for.
And with advanced models, you get even more. One device even remembers your perfect puff and recreates it every time.
Verdict: Refillable - there’s simply no contest if you want full control over your vape.
Which is cheaper?
At first glance, prefilled pod kits can seem cheaper. You can buy a device from around £6, while refillable pod kits start from around £10.
Don’t be deceived - refillable devices are much cheaper over the longer term.
A bottle of 10ml e-liquid is often around the same price as a single pod, but contains five times as much e-liquid. In fact, you could save over £260 a year by using refillable devices.
If you’re really keen to save money, you also have the option of switching to 50/50 shortfills. While it does take a little longer to mix nicotine into these bottles, you can make significant savings over time.
|
Device type |
Average cost per month |
Average cost per year |
|
Prefilled pod devices |
£77.34 |
£914.98 |
|
Refillable pod device |
£66.89 |
£652.18 |
Verdict: Refillable - lower monthly cost, significantly cheaper over the long term.
When I started vaping, it was disposable all the way. Then I realised I was spending more on vaping than I had on smoking! With the cost of living kicking in, I switched first to prefilled and then to refillables - now I’m spending a fraction of what I used to.
Keith, ECD Customer
Which is easier to use?
Prefilled pod devices truly are simple to use. Open the box, pop in the pod and you’re ready to vape.
But refillables have come a long way too. With many devices, the only thing you need to remember is to wait two minutes after filling the pod for the first time.
And while some kits offer airflow or power controls, you can usually ignore them entirely if you’re just getting started. If and when you’re ready, you’ll find you get a vape customised to your preferences with some very easy tweaks.
Verdict: Prefilled - for beginners. But if you can fill a pod and wait two minutes, refillables are easy too.
Which can you vape for longest between charges?
Refillables pod kits generally last longer - and that’s all down to the battery.
The average 600 puff pod kit comes with a battery capacity of around 500mAh. Refillable devices typically pack in a 1000mAh or more. For example, Vaporesso Xros vape pod kits have a battery capacity of up to 1500mAh.
That said, some big puff vapes do come with larger battery capacity. The IVG 2400 has a battery capacity of 1750mAh, which can last days before needing recharging.
Verdict: Refillables beat 600 puff devices - but the best big puff devices can last even longer.
I really love this [IVG 2400] kit. It lasts for days and switching flavours is nice and easy. Much more convenient than the disposables.
Tom, ECD Customer
Which is more eco-friendly?
Both prefilled and refillable pod kits are a big improvement on disposables when it comes to environmental impact, as the batteries can be recharged and reused many times.
That said, refillables have the edge when it comes to eco-friendly status. A single prefilled pod is used once, then binned - adding plastic, metal and e-liquid residue to landfills.
Refillable pods, on the other hand, can last for up to two weeks - or months when using a replaceable coil.
Verdict: Refillable - each refillable pod can easily last as long as 10 or more prefilled pods.
Final thoughts
Refillable pod kits are cheaper, offer more flavour choice and are cheaper to run. For most vapers, they’re a no-brainer.
But vaping isn’t about perfection - it’s about progress. Love your prefilled vape? Stick with it. Ready to switch things up? Try a refillable.
Because the real win isn’t about the kit you use - it’s about staying smoke-free for good.
TLDR
In a rush? Here’s a quick summary:
|
Best for: |
Winner? |
|
Convenience |
Prefilled |
|
Flavour choice |
Refillable |
|
Performance |
Refillable |
|
Cost |
Refillable |
|
Ease-of-use |
Prefilled |
|
Vaping time between charges |
Refillable or big puff prefilled |
|
Environmental |
Refillable |