Top 5 Best Vape Starter Kits for Beginners

Getting into vaping can be a bit overwhelming. As ex-smokers, we get it. Quitting cigarettes is hard enough and not knowing where to start can be quite frustrating.

Luckily, this beginner’s guide will help make this whole vaping thing easier. We compiled some of the best vaping starter kits to make sure you get maximum value for your investment!

But before we get started, let’s go over the basics!

How Does Vaping Work?

To understand what you are buying, it’s essential to know how these devices work.

When it comes to vaping devices, there are three main components:

1. Battery
2. Atomizer
3. E-liquid

• The battery will be the largest piece of any vaporizer.
• The Atomizer is what vaporizes the e-liquid

Vapers also refer an atomizer to the coil that heats the e-liquid. The important thing here is to understand that you will have to replace the coils after a certain time of use. Keep this in mind as we get into the different devices later.

What are the different types of vaping devices?

As you may have figured out, there is a host of choices when it comes to the different types of vaping devices. You might have seen them at your gas station or seen someone with a box looking thingy! No worries y’all, we’ll get you up to speed on the vaping lingo to make sure you find what you’re looking for.

There are 4 main types of vaping devices:

1. Cig-A-likes
2. Vape Pens
3. Mods (Box Mods)
4. Pod Mods

If you would like an in-depth explanation of the different devices out today, check out our Evolution of Vaping Devices article.

For beginners, we strongly recommend smokers to start off with pod mods or vape pens for usability purposes. The simplicity and effectiveness of Pod Mods and Vape pens serve as an excellent introductory device for smokers.

Let’s cover our top 5 picks for the best pod mods and vape pens on the market.

Best Pod Mods Starter kit

If you’re going to buy your first vaping device, we strongly recommend Pod Mods as your first vape. Pod Systems are currently the closest thing to smoking a cigarette on the market.

Pod Mods use a different nicotine formulation called nicotine salts. Nicotine salts have higher nicotine strength which makes it easier for heavy smokers transitioning into vaping.

Pod systems are either Open Pod Systems or Close Pod Systems:

• Open pod systems are refillable manually, and you will need to buy nicotine salt e-liquid.

• Closed Pod Systems are cartridges that are pre-filled with e-liquid and are disposed of after use.

For more detailed information on Nicotine Salts, get your knowledge up with these articles:

• Nicotine Salt vs Freebase? Why Salt Nic Is The New Craze
• Is Nicotine Salt A Good Fit For You?
• Open vs Closed Pod System? Pros and Cons

1. Suorin Air V2

Suorin Air V2 is an open pod system known for its sleek design and airier draw.

What the starter kit will include:

• 1 x Suorin Air
• 1 x 2 ml Pod
• 1 x Micro USB
• User Manual

What you will need to do if you order this product:

1. You will have to buy nicotine salt e-juice separately
2. You will have to replace cartridges (AKA pods) after a number of refills

Design:

• Tall as a lighter
• Super slim - similar to an ipod Nano
• Ultra-portable - slides into your pocket with ease
• Stealthy - does not look like your conventional vaping device
• Draw Activated - the only button is an On and Off Slide feature
• Passthrough charging (you can vape while charging) - perfect for vaping in your car. Although, you will need to get a longer cable than what it comes with or you will risk driving carelessly.

The stylish and minimalistic design is an ideal device for smokers.

Vaping Performance:

• Excellent cloud production - one of the most powerful pod systems on the market
• Mouth to Lung Hit - similar feel to smoking a cigarette
• Airy Draw - Not too tight and not too loose

Pro tip: Don’t suck in really fast. Take a nice and smooth draw for the best experience.

Battery Life:

• Heavy chain vape - Lasts at least 4 hours
• Medium Vaping usage - easily last a half a day
• Only takes 30 minutes to charge fully

Cartridge Performance:

• Pods should be replaced after 5 refills - can last shorter or longer depending on  usage intensity, type of e-juice, and proper handling
• 2 ml e-liquid capacity - holds more than closed pod systems
• Easy refill - take cartridge off the battery and remove the red rubber plug

Issues Reported in the Vaping Community:

• Inconsistency in the pods
• Leakage Issues

Users have noted that pods can cause dry hits. Dry hits can be an unpleasant experience and will give off a burnt taste. This is because dry hits occur when the wick is not fully saturated.

To prevent dry hits, it is important to prime your coils properly. To prime your coils, inhale and exhale slowly through the mouthpiece three times each after refilling your e-liquid. It is also suggested to let the pod sit for 15-30 minutes for safe measure and not 5-8 minutes as the user manual states.

As for the leakage issues, there are minor leakage present but does not present a significant issue. If the pod leaks at a concerning rate, you should refill your e-juice with the recommended VG and PG ratio. Anything lower than a 60 VG and 40 PG e-liquid ratio will cause leakage in the pod.

Average Price:

Device: $19.99 - 29.99

V2 Cartridge Replacement: $ 3.95 - 5.99

30 ml e-liquid bottle: $16.99 - 20.00

Pros:

• Ultra-Portable
• Sleek Design
• Easy to Use
• Airier draw
• Holds 2 ml of e-liquid
• Greater option e-liquid flavors and nicotine strength to choose from

Cons:

• Inconsistent Pods (Due to improper handling or manufacturing defects)
• Short battery life
• Does not come with nicotine salt vape juice
• Cannot vape two flavors at once in one pod

2. Kado Stealth

Kado Stealth is a sleek and robust open pod system.

What the starter kit will include:

• 1 x Kado Stealth Unit
• 1 x 2 ml Pod
• 1 x USB Cable
• 1 X Warranty Card
• User Manual

What you will need to do if you order this product:

1. You will have to buy nicotine salt e-juice separately
2. You will have to replace cartridges (AKA pods) after a certain time of use

Design:

• Tall as a lighter
• Slim but Sturdy - Nice weight to it and grips in your hand perfectly
• Ultra-portable - Compact and pocket-friendly
• Covert - device is covered by the hands allowing only the mouthpiece to be open
• Draw Activated - no button to press
• Passthrough charging (you can vape while charging) - perfect for vaping in your car
• Beautifully designed, durable, and user-friendly
• LED light to indicate battery charge

Vaping Performance:

• Fast response time for an auto-draw device
• Smooth pull  - Tighter draw compared to Suorin Air
• Mouth to Lung Hit - simulates the smoking experience
• Cloud production is great for a low wattage device
• Consistent Flavor intensity

Battery Life:

• Slightly longer battery life than Suorin Air - 450 mAh vs 400 mAh
• 8 Watts for a consistent vape throughout the battery life
• Only takes 30 minutes to fully charge

Cartridge Performance:

• Replace after 5 refills
• 2 ml e-liquid capacity
• Easy refill - take cartridge off the battery and remove the black rubber plug

Issues Reported in the Vaping Community:

• Dry Hits Issues

Make sure to prime your coil correctly. The user manual states to wait 10 minutes after refilling new cartridge. We would recommend to take additional steps and inhale and exhale slowly three times each to thoroughly saturate the wick.

Average Price:

Device: $19.99 - 29.99

V2 Cartridge Replacement: $4.99

30 ml e-liquid bottle: $16.99 - 20.00

Pros:

• Ultra-Portable
• Well-built and Durable
• Consistent vape experience
• Holds 2 ml of e-liquid
• Longer battery life
• Warranty included

Cons:

• Can’t see e-liquid levels as easily
• Does not come with nicotine salt vape juice
• Cannot vape two flavors at once in one pod
• Makes a sizzling sound after hitting it - may be a minor annoyance but does not affect coil performance

3. Phix

Phix is a closed pod system device. Closed system pods are like coffee pods, and you refill by buying and inserting a pod. The Juul is often compared to the Phix due to their popularity and similarity. However, Phix will be cheaper in the long run due to larger e-liquid capacity.

What the starter kit will include:

• 1 x Phix
• 1 x 1.5 ml Flavor Pod (Tobacco Flavor Pod)
• 1 x Magnetic USB charger
• User Manual

What you will need to do if you order this product:

• You will have to order replacement flavoring pods (Comes in packs of 4)
• Keep in mind that the starter kit will only include 1 flavor pod

Design:

• Taller than a lighter
• Compact Design - comfortable hand feel
• Ultra-Portable - slides into your pocket with ease
• Draw Activated - No button to press
• Discrete and Silent

User-friendliness makes a smooth transition from smoking to vaping.

Vaping Performance:

• Effective nicotine delivery - 50 mg
• Mouth to Lung Hit - similar feel to smoking a cigarette
• Tight Draw - smooth pull and decent cloud production
• 400-440 puffs per pod compared to Juuls 200 puffs per pod  

Battery Life:

• Lasts about 11 hours to a full day depending on usage
• Average of 40 minutes for a full charge

Pod Performance:

• Ceramic Coils - lasts longer than conventional coils
• Replacing pods is easy and convenient
• The Flavor intensifies when dragged on longer

Issues Reported in the Vaping Community:

• Slight leakage issues

The slight leakage is not a major issue. The pod can be taken out and cleaned. As for preventing leakage, it can be caused by inhaling aggressively. To avoid this issue, puff gently for a softer and smoother draw. It may also due to the battery not being fully charged as well which make it harder for the device to vaporize the e-liquid.

Average Price:

Device: $ 34.99

Phix Pods (4 flavor pods): $ 19.99 - $26

Pros:

• Extremely easy to use
• Perfect on-the-go device
• Sleek Design
• Long lasting
• Tight Draw and smooth pull
• Holds 1.5 ml of e-liquid compared to 0.7 ml
• Cheaper in the long run compared to Juul

Cons:

• Only includes 1 pod in the starter kit
• Limited flavoring options
• LED light does not indicate battery life
• Cannot charge and vape at the same time

Best Vape Pen Starter kit

If you want to become a flavor chaser or a cloud chaser, pod mods may not be your cup of tea. Pod mods may satisfy your cravings, but vaping can provide a much richer experience. It doesn’t always have to be about nicotine.

For heavy to medium smokers, vape pens can give you what you’re looking for without getting the high level of nicotine found in Pod Mods. Vape pens are the next best thing when it comes down to simplicity and user-friendliness.

We recommend getting a vape pen for several reasons:

1. Flavor intensity is much better in higher wattage devices
2. Stronger cloud production
3. Simplicity and Ease of use

Vape pens have improved in performance compared to the vape pens in the late 2000’s. Modern vape pens are an excellent choice for beginners due to the integrated sub-ohm tanks and simplicity. Take a look at our top picks for the best vape pen starter kits around!

4. SMOK Stick Prince TFV12

The Smok Stick Prince is the newer version of the Stick V8. The only difference is the tank being larger and using slightly different coils. Smok sticks are commonly found in vape stores and are often recommended as a great starter kit for beginners.

What the starter kit will include:

• 1 x Smok Stick Prince Battery
• 1 x Smok TFV12 Prince Sub-Ohm Tank
• 2 x M4 V12 0.17 Ohm
• Space O-ring and Sealing pads
• Vape Band
• 1 x USB Charger
• User Manual

What you will need to do if you order this product:

1. You will have to buy e-liquid to fill your tank
2. You will have to replace your coils after a certain time of use

What coils to buy?

• V12 Prince M4 Coils 0.17 Ohm (Recommended for optimal kick)
• V12 Prince T10 Decuple Coil 0.12 Ohm (Not optimal wattage range but will be compatible)

• V12 Prince X6 Sextuple Coil 0.15 Ohm (Not optimal wattage range but will be compatible)

• V12 Prince Q4 Quadruple Coil 0.4 Ohm (Not optimal wattage range but will be compatible)

Design:

• Cylindrical Shape - light and compact
• Portable - Perfect pocket vape
• Airflow control - Can be used as a Mouth to Lung device or Direct to Lung hit
• One button - Press to fire and press 5 times to turn on or off
• Swivel tank for easy refill
• Crown Tank for larger e-liquid capacity
• Passthrough charging (you can vape while charging) - perfect for vaping in your car
• Will not hit longer than 8 seconds as a safety feature
• A wide range of colors to choose from

Simple to use and powerful for its size. A perfect introductory device for sub-ohm vaping and high wattage devices.

Pro-tip: Put on your vape bands to avoid breaking your glass tank!

Vaping Performance:

• Incredible Power for its size - great cloud production
• Impressive Flavor Intensity (flavor intensity can vary depending on the coil used)

• 0.17 ohm coil will generate more clouds and will consume more e-juice
• Keep in mind that higher resistance coils will produce less clouds and tend to have more flavor to a certain extent

• Perfect for a secondary device and can be used as an all day vape
• Ergonomically sound - Feels nicely in your hands

• Best for 3 and 6 mg e-liquids

Battery Life:

• Heavy chain vape - Last at least 4-5 hours
• Infrequent usage - All day
• 2 Hours for a full charge
• Voltage output decreases as battery drains

Tank Performance:

• 8 ml tank - High vaping usage will require a refill more than once a day
• Swivel feature makes it easy for a refill
• Air intake option is a nice feature to adjust the vaping experience

Issues Reported in the Vaping Community:

• Inconsistency in the coils
• Leakage issues

You can buy individual coils at your local vape store, or you can purchase coils in packs of 5. Some users in the community have noted that you may get a dud every once in a while. As for best practices, make sure when you put in a new coil, always prime your coil. You can do this by filling your e-liquid and inhale and exhale slowly about 3 times. Let the e-juice sit for about 30 minutes.

E-juice leaking can be an inconvenience, but the good news is that it can be avoided. The problem can be fixed by tightening the coils correctly. Make sure that the coils are screwed on in the top half first. Then screwing it into the base will make sure that the coils are tight as it can be.

Pro tip: No need to screw on the separate components super tight! If you do, it will take some jimmying to unscrew it!

Average Price:

Device: $ 30.00 - 50.00

Coils: $ 5 per coil if bought individually or $ 10 - 15 for a pack of 5

60ml e-liquid bottle: $ 15 - 20

Pros:

• Reasonable Pricing
• Portable
• Simple to use with only one button
• Amazing Flavor
• Great cloud production
• Option to choose compatible coils for preferred vaping experience

Cons:

• Does not come with nicotine salt vape juice
• Battery life is short compared to other high wattage devices
• Quality control is not ideal, and you can get defective coils

5. KangerTech SUBVOD Starter Kit

KangerTech SUBVOD Starter Kit is known for its usability and provides awesome value for the price.

What the starter kit will include:

• 1 x SUBVOD
• 1 x Top Tank Nano
• 1 x SSOCC 0.5 ohm Atomizer Head
• 1 x Replacement Glass
• 1 x USB Charger
• User Manual

What you will need to do if you order this product:

1. You will have to buy e-liquid to fill your tank
2. You will have to replace your coils after a certain time of use

Pro-tip: buying a vape band will help you prevent the glass tank

What coils to buy?

• Kangertech SSOCC 0.5 ohm
• Kangertech SSOCC 0.4 ohm

Other compatible coils but not optimal for the Stick V8

• V8 Baby Q2 Dual Coil
• V8 Baby X4 Quad Coil
• V8 Baby T8 Octuple Coil
• V8 Baby T6 Sextuple Core

Design:

• Cylindrical shaped
• Light and compact
• Portable for an easy on-the-go vape
• Airflow control for a mouth to lung or a direct to lung hit
• Battery indicator on the bottom
• Top or bottom fill capability
• Pass through capability (vape while charging)
• Easy to use with one button to fire
• Turn on and off by pressing 5 times

Pro-tip: Put on your vape bands to avoid breaking your glass tank!

Vaping Performance:

• Solid cloud production
• Consistent vape - clean and flavorful

• 0.5 ohm coil has great flavor intensity and but less kick than lower resistance coils
• 0.4 ohm coil will create bigger clouds and will consume more e-juice

• Beautiful form and a top-notch device for its simplicity

• Best for 3 and 6 mg e-liquids

Battery Life:

• Heavy chain vape - Last at least 3 hours
• Occasional usage - all day
• 3 hours for a full charge (Depending on power cord)
• Voltage output decreases as battery drains

Tank Performance:

• 3.2 ml tank - you will refill more than once a day
• Unscrew top or bottom for a convenient refill
• Easy to use air intake feature

Issues Reported in the Vaping Community:

• Leakage Issues
• Battery Issues

E-juice leaking from the airflow is a common issue among vapers using vape pens. The leaking doesn't flood out or anything, but it can be an inconvenience. The problem usually stems from not tightening the coil correctly. It’s important to make sure that you tighten the coil on the top half first, then tightening it in the base. It may take some practice at first but you will get the hang of it.  

As for the battery issue, make sure all components are tightly in place. If your battery is not working, it is best practice to take apart the tank and retighten the coil. Then, screw on the tank correctly so that it is touching the battery.

Pro-tip: Maintenance is critical for a healthy device! Clean the internal and external components weekly!

Average Price:

Device: $ 25 - 50

Coils: $ 3 per coil if bought individually or $ 10 - 15 for a pack of 5

60ml e-liquid bottle: $ 15 - 20

Pros:

• Affordable pricing
• Portable and fits in hand nicely
• Straightforward device with one button
• Clean and flavorful
• Solid cloud production
• Flexibility - can use a different atomizer
• Option to choose compatible coils for preferred vaping experience

Cons:

• Does not come with nicotine salt vape juice
• Battery life is short compared to other high wattage devices
• Tank only holds 3.2 ml

What’s Next?

The next step after choosing a vaping device is selecting the right nicotine strength for your e-liquid.

Also worth noting is how to properly care for your vape device to avoid any issues with the battery, or if you accidentally drop your device. Newer ways to vape come out every year with new technology being introduced. Staying on top of how to charge your vape will be changing as well.  

Once you have figured that out, you are ready to begin your vaping journey. If you have any questions regarding vaping, don’t be afraid to let us know! Happy vaping and good luck on your new adventure!