The terms e-cig and vape are often used interchangeably. However, e-cigs and vapes are distinctly different devices that offer varying experiences. So let's compare and contrast e-cigs and vapes so you can better understand what device will work for you. Let's dive right into it...

General Definitions

First let’s start with the basics and define exactly what e-cigs and vapes are. 

E-cigs are affordable and maintenance-free vaping devices with built-in cartridges and batteries. They are similar to traditional cigarettes in shape and size. Most e-cigs don’t have refillable cartridges, so you have to swap them out. E-cigs are also generally lighter, smaller, simpler, and more discreet than vape devices. 

Vapes are rechargeable devices that store e-juice in a small tank. They operate in fundamentally the same way as e-cigs – the battery turns the nicotine e-juice into a vapor that you inhale. In addition, vapes come in more variations than e-cigs and are generally more fully featured and customizable.

Comparing and Contrasting E-Cigs and Vapes 

So now let’s put these two types of devices side by side and see how they differ in various aspects. 

Aesthetics 

E-cigarettes tend to mimic cigarettes in appearance. Vapes, on the other hand, are often larger and bulkier than e-cigarettes with more adventurous designs. E-cigarettes are often a popular option for those that like the feel of holding a cigarette in their hands.

Battery life 

Vapes have bigger, bulkier batteries than e-cigs. These more robust components mean that vape batteries tend to last longer. 

Flavor

Both e-cigs and vape devices open you up to a huge range of flavored juices. However, if you want more variety and customization, a vape is better, especially since you can mix your own blends of multiple vape juices. 

Functionality

Electronic cigarettes offer the most basic functionality -- simply inhale the vapor from the mouthpiece. This can be perfect for folks who want an easy to use, no fuss device. Vapes, on the other hand can have a variety of more complicated features such as: 

  • Wattage and voltage settings that allow you to control the atomizer's power, which affects how many clouds the device produces
  • Temperature control which affects the flavor's intensity
  • Preheat function that heats the device and optimizes power consumption
  • Safety features and thermal protection that prolong the life of the device

Pros and Cons

Now let’s delve into the pros and cons of both e-cigs and vape devices:

E-Cig Pros

  • More affordable
  • Low maintenance
  • Simple design and operation
  • Small and portable

E-Cig Cons

  • Less variety in features and flavors 
  • Smaller e-liquid capacity 

Vape Pros

  • Large vape juice capacity 
  • Can be filled with custom e-liquid 
  • Many sizes and designs available
  • More fully-featured 
  • Can be modified and customized 

Vape Cons

  • Coat more than e-cigarettes
  • Require more set-up and maintenance 
  • Bulkier than e-cigs 

So there you have it! We hope this article was helpful in clarifying the differences between e-cigs and vapes. South Beach Smoke offers only the highest quality e-cig kits, cartridges, and accessories. Explore our entire collection today.