By Omar Hassan · Buying Guide Editor at VapesOnlineShop
Published February 2026 · Updated February 25, 2026
If you've never vaped before, the sheer number of devices, brands, nicotine levels, and flavor options can feel paralyzing. This guide cuts through the noise. We'll explain the three main types of vapes, walk you through how to actually use them, help you pick the right device for your situation, and answer every question we get from first-time customers.
One important note before we start: vaping products contain nicotine (unless you specifically choose a 0% nicotine option), and nicotine is addictive. This guide is intended for adults 21+ who are current smokers or nicotine users looking for an alternative. We don't encourage non-smokers to start vaping.
3 Types of Vapes Explained
There are three main categories of vapes, and they differ in complexity, cost, and maintenance. For beginners, we almost always recommend starting with a disposable.
1. Disposable Vapes (Best for Beginners)
Pre-filled, pre-charged, draw-activated — no setup, no maintenance. You take it out of the box and inhale. When the e-liquid runs out, you dispose of the device and grab a new one. Modern disposables deliver 9,000 to 50,000 puffs with rechargeable batteries, HD screens, and adjustable airflow. They're no longer the simple, low-quality devices they were a few years ago.
Price range: $15–30 per device. See our Top 10 Disposable Vapes for specific recommendations.
2. Pod Systems (Best for Regular Users)
A reusable battery base with replaceable flavor pods. You keep the battery and only swap the pod when the flavor runs out. Brands like Foger (Switch Pro 30K) and Off Stamp (X-Cube 35K) offer this format. It's more cost-effective than disposables over time — the pods cost less than buying a full new device each time.
Price range: $25–35 for the starter kit, $10–15 per replacement pod.
3. Refillable Mods (For Experienced Users)
Open systems where you fill your own e-liquid, replace coils, and customize wattage and airflow. Much steeper learning curve, but maximum control over your experience. We don't carry mods at VapesOnlineShop — our focus is on the pre-filled disposable and pod system space where most US vapers are today.
How to Use a Disposable Vape — Step by Step
Since 95% of our first-time customers start with disposables, here's exactly how to use one:
Step 1: Unbox and inspect. Remove the device from packaging. Most disposables come sealed in a plastic wrapper or have a silicone plug covering the mouthpiece. Remove all packaging materials. Check for a sticker or tab covering the airflow hole — remove this too.
Step 2: Check the battery. Most modern disposables ship with a partial charge. If your device has a screen, it will show battery level when you take your first draw. If the battery is dead on arrival (rare but possible), plug in the USB-C cable and charge for 20–30 minutes before using.
Step 3: Inhale. Most disposable vapes are draw-activated — there are no buttons. Simply place your lips on the mouthpiece and inhale slowly. The device will automatically activate and produce vapor.
Step 4: Adjust airflow (if available). Many devices have an airflow dial or switch. A tighter setting (MTL — mouth-to-lung) mimics the draw of a cigarette. A looser setting (DTL — direct-to-lung) produces bigger clouds but a less intense throat hit. Start with the tighter setting if you're coming from cigarettes.
Step 5: Recharge when needed. When vapor production decreases or the screen shows low battery, plug in the USB-C cable. A full charge typically takes 30–60 minutes. You can vape while charging on most devices.
Step 6: Replace when empty. When flavor quality drops significantly, vapor becomes thin, or the screen shows empty e-liquid, the device is done. Dispose of it responsibly — many vape shops and recycling centers accept used devices.
Your First Puff — What to Expect
If you've never vaped before, here's what the first experience typically feels like:
The inhale will feel different from smoking. Vapor is smoother, less harsh, and doesn't have the "burning" sensation of smoke. If you're using a 5% nicotine device, you'll feel a noticeable throat hit — a tingling sensation at the back of your throat. This is normal and is caused by the nicotine salt.
The flavor will be more pronounced than you expect. Unlike cigarettes where flavor is subtle and mostly tobacco, vape flavors are designed to be vivid and distinct. A watermelon ice vape will genuinely taste like cold watermelon.
The exhale produces a visible vapor cloud that dissipates much faster than cigarette smoke. It doesn't linger on clothes, furniture, or breath the way smoke does.
Possible reactions: First-time vapers with a 5% nicotine device may experience mild lightheadedness or a head rush. This is the nicotine. Take shorter draws, wait longer between puffs, and consider starting with a lower nicotine strength or a 0% nicotine device if the sensation is too strong.
How to Choose Your First Vape
Based on thousands of first-time customer interactions, here's our simple decision framework:
If you're a current smoker looking to switch → Start with a disposable vape at 5% nicotine with a tight MTL draw. The RAZ TN9000 is our #1 recommendation for ex-smokers — its adjustable airflow can mimic a cigarette draw closely, and at 9,000 puffs it's a good trial device without a big investment.
If you're nicotine-curious but cautious → Start with a 0% nicotine device or a low-strength option. You get the full flavor and vapor experience without the addictive substance. The Geek Bar Pulse X 0% is ideal — massive flavor library, zero risk of nicotine dependency.
If you want the best value long-term → Go with a pod system like the Foger Switch Pro 30K. Buy the kit once, then only replace pods. You'll save 30–40% over time compared to buying individual disposables.
If you want the simplest possible experience → Any top-rated disposable will work. The Geek Bar Pulse X 25000 is the default recommendation for a reason — it does everything well with zero learning curve.
Nicotine Strength — What Level Is Right?
Most disposable vapes come in 5% (50mg) nicotine strength, which is the standard in the US market. Here's what the different levels mean in practice:
5% (50mg) — Standard strength. Strong throat hit, satisfying for current smokers (especially those smoking 10+ cigarettes per day). Most devices default to this.
3% (30mg) — Moderate strength. Noticeable throat hit but less intense. Good for light smokers or vapers who find 5% too strong. Some brands like Lost Mary offer devices at this level.
0% (0mg) — Zero nicotine. No throat hit from nicotine (though you'll still feel the vapor). Ideal for people who enjoy the sensory experience without any nicotine. Available from RAZ (10 flavors across TN9000 and LTX 25K) and Geek Bar (20+ Pulse flavors in 0%). See our full Nicotine-Free Vape Guide.
Our advice: if you're coming from cigarettes, start at 5% and see how it feels. If you experience dizziness or nausea, step down to 3%. If you've never used nicotine, start at 0% — there's no reason to introduce an addictive substance if you don't already use one.
Choosing Your First Flavor
With 1,000+ flavors across our inventory, choosing one can feel overwhelming. Here's a shortcut based on what first-time vapers tend to enjoy:
Safe starter flavors: Watermelon Ice, Blue Razz Ice, Strawberry Ice, Miami Mint. These are universally liked, not too sweet, not too intense, and the menthol/ice finish provides a satisfying exhale. They're popular for a reason.
If you like sweets: Meta Moon (mystery candy), Fcuking FAB (fizzy candy), Strawberry B-Pop (candy strawberry). These are sweeter and more indulgent.
If you prefer clean/simple: Cool Mint, Miami Mint, Tobacco. Minimal sweetness, straightforward flavor profiles. Best for ex-smokers who don't want the candy-like experience.
Avoid as a first flavor: Heavy dessert flavors (coffee, cupcake, cream) and extremely sour flavors can be overwhelming for first-timers. Save these for after you've established what you like.
For our complete flavor rankings across all brands, see our Best Vape Flavors 2026 guide.
7 Tips for New Vapers
1. Start with short draws. Take 2–3 second inhales, not long drags. You can always take another puff, but you can't un-inhale a lungful of nicotine if it's too much.
2. Wait between puffs. Give yourself 15–30 seconds between draws. Chain-vaping can cause light-headedness from nicotine and can overheat the coil, degrading flavor.
3. Stay hydrated. PG and VG (the base liquids in all e-liquids) are humectants — they absorb moisture. Vaping can cause mild dry mouth. Drinking water regularly prevents this.
4. Store upright. Keeping your device upright prevents e-liquid from leaking through the mouthpiece. Avoid leaving it in direct sunlight or hot cars — heat degrades both the battery and the e-liquid.
5. Don't cover the airflow. Most devices have small airflow holes on the bottom or sides. Blocking these while inhaling creates a vacuum that can flood the coil and cause spitting or gurgling.
6. Charge before it dies. Vaping on a nearly dead battery delivers weaker vapor and can produce a burnt taste. Charge when the screen shows below 20% or when you notice reduced vapor output.
7. Try multiple flavors. Your first flavor might not be your favorite. Most vapers go through 3–5 flavors before finding their go-to. That's normal and part of the experience.
Common Problems & Fixes
No vapor when I inhale. Check if the device has a power button (some do). Ensure all packaging tabs and stickers are removed. Try a firmer, slower draw. If nothing works, the battery may be dead — charge for 20 minutes and try again.
Burnt taste. E-liquid is running low, or you're chain-vaping too fast without letting the coil re-wick. Wait 10 seconds between draws. If the device is nearly empty, it's time for a new one.
Leaking from the mouthpiece. Store the device upright. If leaking persists, the device may have a manufacturing defect — contact us for a replacement.
Weak flavor or thin vapor. Battery is low — recharge. If the issue persists after a full charge, the e-liquid is likely running out.
Blinking light, won't hit. Most devices blink to indicate a dead battery (charge it) or empty e-liquid (replace the device). Check the brand's specific indicator codes — they vary by manufacturer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is vaping safer than smoking?+
Public health agencies including the UK's NHS have stated that vaping is significantly less harmful than smoking cigarettes, primarily because vapes don't involve combustion — there's no tar, no carbon monoxide, and no burning plant material. However, vaping is not risk-free and is not recommended for non-smokers. Long-term effects are still being studied. If you're looking for clinical smoking cessation support, consult a healthcare provider.
How many puffs equal one cigarette?+
There's no precise equivalency because cigarettes and vapes deliver nicotine differently. A rough estimate is that 10–15 puffs from a 5% nicotine disposable delivers approximately the same amount of nicotine as one cigarette. But nicotine absorption rates vary by individual, draw length, and device. Rather than counting puffs, pay attention to how your body feels — when you feel satisfied, stop.
How much does vaping cost per month?+
A moderate vaper (200–300 puffs/day) will go through a 25,000-puff device in about 2–3 weeks. At $20–25 per device, that's roughly $30–50/month. Pod systems like the Foger Switch Pro bring this down to $20–35/month. For a detailed cost breakdown across brands, see our Vape Price Guide.
Can I vape indoors?+
Vape vapor dissipates much faster than cigarette smoke and doesn't leave a lasting odor. However, many indoor spaces — workplaces, restaurants, public buildings — prohibit vaping under the same rules that apply to smoking. Always check local regulations and respect the policies of the space you're in. At home, vaping indoors typically doesn't cause the staining, smell, or residue that smoking does.
What age do you have to be to buy a vape?+
The federal minimum age to purchase any vaping product in the United States is 21. All online orders from VapesOnlineShop require adult signature verification (21+) upon delivery. Some states have additional restrictions. For a state-by-state breakdown, see our Vape Laws by State guide.