What are vape pens?
What are vape pens and why do people use them?
A vape pen is a small, handheld device that is used to inhale vapour, known as an e-cigarette.
It is called a vape “pen” because it is shaped like a pen and is small enough to fit in your pocket or purse. Inside the vape pen and other vape devices, there is a heating element that is powered by a battery.
This heating element is used to turn e-liquid (or “e-juice”) into a vapor that can be inhaled. This vapor typically contains nicotine (like in traditional cigarettes) but also can be nicotine free.
Vape pens are used as an alternative to smoking cigarettes, and many experts believe that vaping is less harmful than smoking cigarettes because it does not produce tar and other harmful chemicals that are found in cigarette smoke.
Advantages of vape pens
Vape pens have a few advantages over other types of e-cigarette devices, including:
- Less harmful than cigarettes: Vaping is 95% safer than smoking cigarettes, according to Public Health England.
- No secondhand smoke: Vaping does not produce smoke, only vapor. This means that there is no secondhand smoke that can harm people around you.
- Discreet: Vape pens are small and easy to carry around, making them discreet. This means that you can use them in places where smoking cigarettes is not allowed.
- Flavour options: Vape pens use e-liquid that comes in many different flavors, some of the e-liquids have different nicotine levels, and others have a variety of flavors like mint, fruits, desserts, etc.
- Cost-effective: They are relatively low-cost devices, costing anywhere between £10 and £30. The coils are also cheap, usually around £10 for a pack of 5, so the cost of maintenance is low.
- Nicotine control: Many vapers use it to quit smoking and control their nicotine intake, with the possibility of reducing or eliminating it as part of the cessation process.
Disadvantages of vape pens
While vape pens have some advantages over other devices, they also have some disadvantages. Here are a few examples:
- Limited battery life: Vape pens have a battery that needs to be charged regularly, and the battery life may not be as long as other vaping devices. This can be inconvenient if you’re away from home and don’t have access to a charger.
- Limited capacity: Vape pens typically have a smaller capacity for e-liquid compared to other vaping devices, which means you may need to refill them more frequently.
- Less powerful: Some vape pens are less powerful than other vaping devices, which means they may not produce as much vapor.
- Limited options: Vape pens typically have fewer options for customization than other vaping devices. For example, you may not be able to adjust the wattage, temperature, or airflow like you can with some more advanced devices.
- Limited durability: Some vape pens are not as durable as other vaping devices and may be more prone to breaking or malfunctioning.
- Less control over the experience: Some vapers prefer more advanced devices that allow for more control over the experience, including the ability to control the temperature and airflow.
It’s important to note that many of these disadvantages can be mitigated or eliminated by purchasing a higher-end or more advanced vape pen.
