Getting Started with Vaping
If you're new to vaping, the sheer number of devices, e-liquids and accessories on the market can feel overwhelming. Don't worry — this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to pick the right vape for your needs and preferences.
Understanding the Different Types of Vapes
There are several main categories of vaping devices, each suited to different users:
- Disposable vapes — Ready to use straight out of the box with no setup required. Great for trying vaping for the first time, but not the most cost-effective long term.
- Pod systems — Compact, lightweight devices that use replaceable or refillable pods. Perfect for beginners who want something simple but reusable.
- Vape pens — Slim, pen-shaped devices with a built-in tank. A solid middle ground between simplicity and performance.
- Box mods — Larger, more powerful devices with adjustable settings. Best for experienced vapers who want full control over their experience.
For most beginners, we recommend starting with a pod system. They're affordable, easy to maintain, and deliver a satisfying experience without the complexity. Check out our pod systems collection for popular options.
Choosing the Right Nicotine Strength
Nicotine strength is one of the most important decisions you'll make. E-liquids typically come in several strengths:
- 0mg — Nicotine-free, for those who enjoy the act of vaping without nicotine.
- 3mg–6mg — Low strength, suited for light smokers or those who prefer minimal nicotine.
- 12mg–18mg — Medium strength, common for regular smokers transitioning to vaping.
- 20mg+ (nic salts) — Higher strength nicotine salts, designed for pod systems and mouth-to-lung devices.
If you're unsure, start with a mid-range strength and adjust from there. You can always change your nicotine level once you know what feels right.
PG/VG Ratio Basics
E-liquids are made from two base ingredients: Propylene Glycol (PG) and Vegetable Glycerine (VG). The ratio affects your experience:
- Higher PG (50/50 or 60PG/40VG) — Stronger throat hit, more flavour, less vapour. Best for pod systems and MTL vaping.
- Higher VG (70VG/30PG or 80VG/20PG) — Smoother draw, bigger clouds, slightly muted flavour. Best for sub-ohm and DTL devices.
Most beginners do well with a 50/50 blend in a pod system. For a deeper dive, read our guide on PG vs VG ratios.
Budget Considerations
Your budget will influence which type of device you go for. Pod systems and starter kits are the most affordable entry point, typically ranging from $30 to $60 for the device itself. You'll also need to factor in the ongoing cost of pods or coils and e-liquid.
While disposable vapes have a lower upfront cost, they work out more expensive over time compared to a reusable device. Investing in a quality starter kit will save you money in the long run.
Our Recommendation
For most first-time vapers, we suggest grabbing a reliable pod system kit, a 50/50 e-liquid in a flavour you enjoy, and a spare pack of pods or coils. Browse our starter kits to find everything you need to get going. If you have any questions, the Vapelink team is always happy to help.
