Vape Batteries: A Complete Guide

Vape Batteries: A Complete Guide

Back in 2014, when we first wrote this guide to vape batteries, many vapers were building their own coils and using powerful unregulated devices with minimal safety features.

With little in the way of built-in protection, battery safety wasn’t optional - it was essential.

Things have changed. Today’s vape kits are safer, simpler and more beginner-friendly. But even now, a bit of battery knowledge can help improve the vaping experience. So in this post, we’ll explore:

  • Fixed v. replaceable batteries - and the pros and cons of each
  • 11 simple ways to extend battery life
  • 8 essential ways to ensure safety
  • How to fix a faulty vape battery
  • Advanced battery information for more advanced users

Contents

What is a vape battery?

Every vape has a battery. It’s the part of your device that powers the coil and heats your e-liquid to produce vapour.

The size and type of battery affects how long your device lasts between charges and the amount of power available.

Aspire Zelos M80 battery on a blue background

Built-in v. replaceable battery formats

Built-in vape batteries

Most people today use vapes with built-in (integrated) batteries. These are standard in pod kits, vape pens and many compact pod mods. They’re charged using a USB cable - usually USB-C for speed.

Built-in batteries are simple to use. Because you can’t remove or replace them, there’s no need to worry about battery compatibility or external battery charging, and the whole device is usually lighter and more pocket-friendly.

Vaporesso Xros 5 Mini Black

Xros 5 Mini by Vaporesso

£16.99

Replaceable batteries

While most vapers use built-in batteries, replaceable options are still common in full-sized mods and some higher-powered pod mods.

The most popular sizes are 18650 and 21700 lithium-ion cells. These can be inserted into the device and charged via USB-C - or removed and charged externally if you prefer.

For mod and pod mod devices, especially for heavier users, replaceable batteries carry a number of advantages

  • You can carry spare batteries with you, ensuring your vape never runs out of charge
  • You can charge batteries externally while continuing to use the device with spare batteries
  • When your battery wears out, you can just replace it without buying a whole new device. That can be a big money saver, especially if you’ve invested in a high-end mod.

For a deep dive into this topic, see our advanced guide to external vape batteries. 

Battery capacity

Battery capacity is measured in mAh*. Capacities typically range from 500mAh to 3000mAh depending on the model, although they can be higher. 

Broadly speaking, the higher the mAh, the longer the battery is likely to last between charges. For example, a 500mAh prefilled device might struggle to last a full day, while devices like the Adept Zlide with its 3000mAh battery can last several days before needing a charge.

Blue and black Vaporesso GTX One mods on a dark textured surface

That said, it’s not the only factor - power settings, coil resistance and device efficiency are examples of other factors that can impact battery life.

The trade off is that higher capacity batteries are often bigger and bulkier. However, some companies such as Vaporesso are starting to use high density batteries to combine a compact size with a long battery life.

11 ways to make your vape battery last longer

Whether you use a fixed or replaceable battery, there are a number of simple steps you can take to extend life. (This advice also applies to other batteries you use outside vaping!)

  1. Charge before it’s empty
    Recharge when the battery hits around 20%. Regular full discharges wear out lithium-ion batteries faster.
  2. Avoid charging to 100%
    Stopping around 90% can slightly improve long-term lifespan. Some devices do this automatically.
  3. Unplug once it’s full
    Don’t leave your vape plugged in for hours or overnight. Overcharging can reduce battery life - and charging unattended always carries a small risk.
  4. Don’t constantly top up
    Constantly topping up your battery with quick charges, then draining it fully, puts more stress on the cells than charging in steady cycles.
  5. Keep it clean
    Dust and juice around charging contacts can reduce efficiency or block power altogether. A quick wipe with a cotton bud helps.
  6. Turn off when not in use
    Especially in pockets or bags — accidental firing wastes battery and can ruin your coil.
  7. Avoid chain-vaping on low charge
    High-wattage vaping when your battery is nearly flat puts extra stress on it. It’s best to recharge first.
  8. Use the right wattage
    Stay within the recommended range for your coil. Vaping at too high a power setting drains the battery faster and puts it under more strain.
  9. Store it partially charged
    If you're not using your vape for a while, store it at around 40–50% charge in a cool, dry place.
  10. Avoid excess heat
    Heat shortens battery life. Don’t leave your device in a hot car, on a windowsill or near a radiator.
  11. Avoid freezing temperatures
    Just like heat, extreme cold can affect your battery’s performance. Try not to leave your vape in the car or outside overnight in winter.

Hand holding an Innokin Endura T8II vape kit

8 essential vape battery safety tips

Vape batteries are much safer than they used to be. Most modern kits come with built-in protections, which can vary from short-circuit detection to overcharge cut-offs and 10-second puff limits.

But no battery is completely risk-free, especially if misused. These tips below will help you stay on the safe side, especially if you’re using devices with removable batteries.

  1. Use the right charger
    Always use the cable or charger supplied with your device or a compatible one from a trusted brand. Avoid cheap knock-offs or mixing chargers from different kits.
  2. Never leave batteries charging unattended
    That includes overnight. While modern devices have safety features, it’s still not worth the risk.
  3. Don’t use damaged batteries
    If a battery is dented, swollen, leaking or the wrap is torn, stop using it immediately. Damaged batteries are far more likely to fail.
  4. Carry spares safely
    If you’re using removable batteries, always transport them in a plastic battery case. Loose batteries in pockets or bags can short against metal objects like keys or coins.
  5. Insert batteries correctly
    Check the + and – markings on both battery and device. Inserting a battery the wrong way round can damage the battery or the device.
  6. Don’t expose batteries to water
    Moisture and lithium-ion batteries don’t mix. If your battery gets wet, dispose of it safely.
  7. Recycle used batteries properly
    Don’t throw batteries in the bin. Take them to your local recycling centre or return them to your vape shop if they’re part of the WEEE scheme.
  8. Don’t mix and match batteries in dual-battery devices
    If your device takes two batteries, always match the brand, model and age and charge them together. Mixing batteries can lead to imbalance and increase the risk of overheating.

Vaping device with batteries on a wooden surface

Troubleshooting battery issues

Battery not firing?

Start with the basics. Is the device turned on? Most vapes need five quick presses of the fire button to power up. Is the pod or tank clicked in properly? Loose connections are one of the most common causes of no vapour.

Clean the contacts, reseat the pod or coil, and try again. If nothing happens, try swapping in a new coil or pod. Some auto-inhale cigalikes may also require a firm puff or a tap on a hard surface to activate properly.

Battery light flashing?

Flashing lights usually mean low battery, a coil issue or a short circuit. Try a full charge first, then check the coil is installed correctly and the device is clean. If the flashing continues, refer to the user manual - or try a replacement coil.

Changing the coil in a replaceable coil vape pod

Battery light stuck on?

This is more common with older devices or cigalikes. Try tapping the device gently on a wooden surface, blowing into the LED end, or letting the battery fully discharge before recharging. If it keeps happening, it may be time for a new device.

Auto-firing?

If your vape is firing without pressing the button or drawing, switch it off immediately. With disposable devices, there’s no off switch - so place it somewhere safe and fireproof. This is rare, but if it happens, it’s best to replace the device.

Not holding charge?

Rechargeable batteries lose capacity over time. If your vape used to last all day and now runs flat after a few hours, the battery is probably near the end of its life.

Travelling with vape batteries

If you’re flying, you’ll need to pack your vape properly.

Most airlines require lithium-ion batteries to be carried in hand luggage, not checked baggage. Turn your device off before boarding. If possible, remove the pod or tank to prevent leaks.

Bring spare batteries in a plastic case. Never carry loose batteries in your pocket or cabin bag.

If in doubt, check your airline’s vape and battery policy before you travel.

Brown leather bag on a tiled floor with a passport held by a hand.

Disposing of vape batteries

Vape batteries can’t go in the bin. They contain chemicals and metals that can cause fires in waste collection or harm the environment in landfill.

You can recycle them easily:

  • Drop them off at your local recycling centre (Recycle Now has a handy postcode checker)
  • Return them to your vape shop - most UK stores will accept used batteries under the WEEE scheme

If your battery is built into the device, the whole vape should be recycled as electrical waste.

Battery sizes and ratings (advanced info)

If you're using a device with a replaceable battery, you’ll see a few numbers and terms. Here's what they mean:

Battery sizes

The numbers refer to the physical dimensions of the battery — for example, a 18650 battery is 18mm wide and 65mm long.

18650 is the most common - small, powerful and compatible with most mods.

21700 is larger and often lasts longer between charges.

18350 is smaller, with lower capacity, and mainly used in compact or specialist devices.

Four black batteries in a clear plastic case on a white background

mAh (milliamp hours)

This tells you how much charge the battery holds. A higher number usually means more vaping time, but it’s not the only factor in performance.

CDR (continuous discharge rating)

This tells you how many amps a battery can safely deliver without overheating. If you vape at high wattages, you’ll need a battery with a higher CDR - usually 20A or more.

Voltage

Most vape batteries operate at 3.6 to 3.7 volts. Regulated devices manage this automatically, so you don’t need to worry unless you’re using a mechanical mod.

Battery capacity v power delivery

Many vapers simply select the largest capacity (measured in mAh) whilst ignoring the amps.

However, insufficient amps can cause problems in 18650 devices. These include the battery degrading more quickly and low power warnings.

If you have a single 18650 battery device, sometimes it’s better to select a battery with a higher continuous amp output and less mAh. For example, the Molicell 2600mAh 18650 battery is better for high-wattage vaping than the Extreme Vape 3000mAh 18650 battery.

Conclusion

Vape batteries may not be glamorous, but they’re the beating heart of your device. Look after them, and they’ll reward you with longer life, better performance and fewer surprises.

Whether you’re running a simple pod kit or a dual-battery mod, the same principles apply - charge carefully, store sensibly, and don’t ignore the signs when a battery is on its way out.

Vape battery FAQs

What kind of batteries do vapes use?

Most vapes use lithium-ion batteries. These are either built-in or replaceable (typically 18650 or 21700 cells).

How long do vape batteries last?

On a single charge, most devices last a day or more. Overall battery lifespan is usually 6–12 months, depending on how often and how well you charge them.

Can I charge my vape overnight?

It’s best not to. Charging unattended can be risky, and leaving the battery at full charge too long can shorten its lifespan.

How should I carry spare batteries?

Always in a plastic battery case. Never loose in a pocket or bag where metal objects could cause a short circuit.

How do I dispose of old vape batteries?

Return them to your local vape shop or take them to a recycling centre. Don’t throw them in the bin.

Helpful guides

External resources

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