Table of Contents
- Introduction
- The Evolution of the Term Vape Pen
- Understanding Pod Systems and Pod Mods
- The World of Box Mods and Advanced Personal Vaporizers
- Disposable Vapes and All-in-One Units
- Industry Terminology: ENDS and Technical Names
- Understanding E-Liquids and Their Roles
- Components of a Vape Pen: What Are They Called?
- Why Do People Use Different Names?
- How to Choose Based on the Name
- Maintenance and Care for Your Device
- Conclusion
- FAQ
Introduction
The world of vaping has evolved rapidly since its inception, leading to a massive library of terminology that can be confusing for both new and experienced vapers. When someone asks what vape pens are called, the answer often depends on the specific design, power level, and intended use of the device. At Vapor Authority, we believe that understanding these names is the first step toward finding the setup that best fits your personal preferences.
Navigating the various labels—from e-cigs and pod systems to box mods and personal vaporizers—requires a clear look at how the industry categorizes hardware. Different names often signify different internal technologies, such as battery capacity or the type of heating element used. This guide will clarify the common names for vape pens and explain the technical differences between these popular devices.
Warning: This content is intended for adults of legal vaping age only. Vaping products contain nicotine, which is an addictive chemical. These products are not intended for use by minors, non-smokers, pregnant or breastfeeding women, people with heart conditions, high blood pressure, or asthma. Consult a physician if you have concerns about whether vaping products are appropriate for you.
The Evolution of the Term Vape Pen
The term "vape pen" is a broad, catch-all phrase used to describe many types of handheld vaporizers. Originally, the name referred specifically to devices that were slim, cylindrical, and roughly the size of a large ink pen. These were a step up from the very first electronic cigarettes, offering better battery life and refillable tanks.
Today, people use the term to describe almost any portable vaping device. However, as technology has advanced, the industry has developed more specific names to help users identify exactly what they are buying. Understanding these distinctions ensures you get a device that matches your expected vapor production and flavor intensity.
Electronic Cigarettes or E-Cigs
Electronic cigarettes, often shortened to "e-cigs," generally refer to the earliest generation of vaping hardware. These devices were designed to look and feel like traditional cigarettes. They are typically small, lightweight, and use low-power batteries.
While some people still use "e-cig" as a general term for all vaping products, it most accurately describes "cigalikes." These are usually two-piece devices consisting of a battery and a pre-filled cartridge. They are the simplest form of vaping hardware, though they offer limited battery life and fewer flavor options compared to modern systems. For shoppers comparing this style, starter kits are another common label for this kind of setup.
Personal Vaporizers (PV)
In the mid-2010s, the term "Personal Vaporizer" or "PV" became popular among enthusiasts. This term was used to distance the products from traditional tobacco associations. It is a more technical name that emphasizes the device’s function: a piece of electronic equipment used to vaporize e-liquid.
While you don't hear "PV" as often in casual conversation today, it remains a common term in enthusiast forums and technical manuals. It encompasses everything from small pens to high-powered mods. It is a professional way to describe the hardware without using slang.
Understanding Pod Systems and Pod Mods
One of the most significant shifts in the industry was the introduction of pod systems. These devices changed the landscape of portable vaping by offering a different way to hold and heat e-liquid. If you are looking for a "vape pen" that is compact and easy to use, you are likely looking at a pod system.
Open and Closed Pod Systems
Pod systems are named after the "pod" that holds the e-liquid, which snaps into the battery section. There are two main types:
- Closed Pod Systems: These use pre-filled pods. When the e-liquid is gone, you throw the pod away and snap in a new one. These are the ultimate in convenience but offer less control over flavor and nicotine strength.
- Open Pod Systems: These allow you to refill the pod with your choice of e-liquid. This is a more cost-effective way to vape. It allows you to use various US-made e-liquids available at Vapor Authority, giving you access to thousands of flavor profiles.
Pod Mods
As pod technology improved, "pod mods" emerged. These are a hybrid between a simple pod system and a high-powered box mod. They are often called pod mods because they retain the pod-style tank but include features like variable wattage and replaceable coils.
Pod mods are ideal for vapers who want a portable device but still want to customize their experience. They usually feature screens that display battery life and power settings. This category has become one of the most popular segments of the market due to its versatility.
The World of Box Mods and Advanced Personal Vaporizers
When a device is no longer pen-shaped and becomes larger and more powerful, it is usually called a box mod. The name comes from the boxy shape of the battery housing. These are for users who want maximum control over their vaping experience.
Regulated Mods
Most box mods sold today are "regulated mods." This means they contain a circuit board and a chipset that allows the user to adjust settings. You can change the wattage (power) or the temperature of the coil. These devices include various safety features, such as short-circuit protection and over-discharge protection.
If you want a brand-specific option, SMOK Box MODs, Mechanical MODs & APVs are a familiar place to compare advanced setups.
Sub-Ohm Mods
You will often hear these devices called "sub-ohm mods." This refers to the resistance of the atomizer coil.
- Sub-ohm vaping: Using a coil with a resistance of less than 1.0 ohm.
- Results: This setup produces significantly more vapor and a warmer hit.
Sub-ohm tanks consume e-liquid faster than standard setups. They are designed for "Direct-to-Lung" (DTL) vaping, where you inhale the vapor directly into your lungs, similar to taking a deep breath. This is the opposite of "Mouth-to-Lung" (MTL) vaping, which mimics the sensation of a traditional cigarette.
Battery Safety for Mods
Devices that use external batteries require specific care. Many box mods use 18650 or 21700 lithium-ion batteries. These are high-output cells that must be handled with respect.
- Inspect Wraps: Always check the plastic wrap on your batteries. If there is a tear or nick, do not use the battery.
- Use a Case: Never carry loose batteries in your pocket or bag. They can short out against keys or coins. Always store them in a dedicated plastic battery case.
- Dedicated Chargers: While many mods allow for USB charging, we recommend using an external "smart" charger. This ensures a more even charge and extends the life of your batteries.
- Married Batteries: If your mod takes two batteries, keep them as a "married" pair. This means you buy them together, charge them together, and use them only in that specific device to ensure they discharge at the same rate.
Disposable Vapes and All-in-One Units
In recent years, disposable vapes have become a dominant category. These are often what people are referring to when they ask about "vape pens" in a convenience store setting.
Characteristics of Disposables
A disposable vape is a single-use device. It comes pre-charged and pre-filled with e-liquid. There are no buttons to press; you simply inhale to activate the heating element. Once the e-liquid runs out or the battery dies, the entire unit is disposed of responsibly.
These are frequently called "bars" or "sticks" due to their shape. Brands like Lost Mary disposable vapes, Elf Bar, and Raz have popularized this format. They are popular because they require zero maintenance—no coil changes and no refilling. However, they are less customizable and produce more waste than refillable systems.
AIO (All-in-One) Devices
An AIO device is a setup where the tank and the battery are part of a single unified structure. Unlike a mod where you can unscrew the tank and put a different one on, an AIO is a self-contained system. Many vape pens are technically AIOs. These are great for beginners because they eliminate compatibility issues between different brands of tanks and batteries.
Industry Terminology: ENDS and Technical Names
If you read scientific papers or government regulations, you will encounter the term "ENDS." This stands for Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems. This is the formal, regulatory name for all vaping products.
While you will never hear a vaper say, "I'm going to go use my ENDS," it is a term you should be aware of. It covers everything from the smallest disposable to the largest box mod. Other technical terms you might encounter include:
- Atomizer: The component responsible for heating the e-liquid into vapor.
- Coil: The wire element inside the atomizer that gets hot.
- Wick: The material (usually organic cotton) that soaks up the e-liquid and brings it to the coil.
- 510 Connector: The industry-standard threading used to connect a tank to a mod.
Understanding E-Liquids and Their Roles
The names of devices are often tied to the type of e-liquid they are designed to use. At Vapor Authority, we carry a vast selection of US-made e-liquids, and choosing the right one for your device name is vital.
Freebase Nicotine E-Liquid
This is the traditional type of nicotine used in e-liquids. It is usually found in higher VG (Vegetable Glycerin) ratios, such as 70/30 or 80/20. These are best suited for "vape pens" that are sub-ohm capable or large box mods. Freebase nicotine provides a more noticeable "throat hit" at higher strengths.
Nicotine Salt E-Liquid
Nicotine salts (or "nic salts") are a different chemical formulation that allows for much higher nicotine concentrations without a harsh throat hit. These are designed specifically for low-power devices like pod systems and small vape pens. You should never use high-strength nicotine salts in a high-power sub-ohm mod, as it can result in an unpleasantly high intake of nicotine.
PG/VG Ratios
The ratio of Propylene Glycol (PG) to Vegetable Glycerin (VG) determines the thickness of the liquid:
- High PG: Thinner liquid, more throat hit, carries flavor well. Best for small pens and MTL devices.
- High VG: Thicker liquid, smoother hit, produces large vapor clouds. Best for sub-ohm tanks and mods.
Components of a Vape Pen: What Are They Called?
To truly understand what these devices are called, it helps to know the names of the parts that make them up. Most "vape pens" consist of three main sections.
The Battery or "Battery Section"
This is the bottom part of the pen that provides power. In smaller pens, the battery is internal and non-removable. In larger "vape pen" styles, it might be a tube mod that holds a removable cell. This section usually contains the firing button and the charging port.
The Tank or Clearomizer
The top part that holds the liquid is called a tank. Older versions with transparent plastic walls were called "clearomizers." Modern tanks are usually made of stainless steel and pyrex glass. Inside the tank is the atomizer head, which contains the coil and wick.
The Drip Tip
The mouthpiece you inhale from is called a "drip tip." This name comes from the early days of vaping when users would drip e-liquid directly onto the coils through the mouthpiece. Today, most drip tips are removable, allowing you to customize the feel and look of your device.
Why Do People Use Different Names?
The terminology often changes based on the social context.
- Retail Settings: In a shop like Vapor Authority, we use specific names like "Starter Kits," "Pod Systems," and "Sub-Ohm Tanks" to help customers find exactly what they need.
- Social Settings: Among friends, people might just say "my vape," "my rig," or "my setup."
- Technical Communities: Builders and enthusiasts might use acronyms like RDA (Rebuildable Dripping Atomizer) or RTA (Rebuildable Tank Atomizer).
Using the correct name helps when you are troubleshooting or buying replacement parts. If you go into a shop and ask for "vape pen coils," the staff will need to know if you mean a pod, a sub-ohm coil, or a standard resistance coil. Knowing the specific name of your device category makes your life much easier.
How to Choose Based on the Name
If you are looking for a new device, the names can serve as a shorthand for what to expect.
- If you want simplicity: Look for "Disposables" or "Closed Pod Systems." These require the least amount of knowledge and maintenance.
- If you want portability and flavor: Look for "Open Pod Systems" or "Vape Pens." These are small enough for a pocket but allow you to use high-quality US-made e-liquids.
- If you want big clouds and customization: Look for "Box Mods," "Sub-Ohm Kits," or "Advanced Personal Vaporizers." These give you the power to tune the experience to your exact liking.
Maintenance and Care for Your Device
Regardless of what your "vape pen" is called, it requires basic care to function correctly.
- Coil Priming: When you put a new replacement coil in a tank or pod, let it sit with e-liquid for 5-10 minutes before firing. This "primes" the wick and prevents it from burning.
- Cleaning: Use a paper towel to wipe down the connection points between the tank and the battery. E-liquid can sometimes leak or condense there, which can interfere with the electrical connection.
- Storage: Keep your device and e-liquids in a cool, dark place. Heat and sunlight can degrade the nicotine and change the flavor of the juice. Always keep all vaping products out of reach of children and pets.
Conclusion
The names for vape pens are diverse because the technology itself is diverse. Whether you call it an e-cig, a pod mod, or a personal vaporizer, the goal remains the same: a reliable and enjoyable experience. At Vapor Authority, we pride ourselves on offering only 100% authentic products from top manufacturers, and you can read more on our About Us page.
- Vape Pens are generally slim, cylindrical, refillable devices.
- Pod Systems use plastic pods instead of glass tanks and are very portable.
- Box Mods offer the most power and customization for experienced users.
- Disposables are single-use devices that require no maintenance.
Ready to find your perfect setup? Shop our starter kits today and experience the award-winning service that has made us a leader in the industry since 2013. All orders are shipped from our San Diego facility, subject to state regulations.
FAQ
Is there a difference between a vape and a vape pen?
"Vape" is a broad term for the entire category of electronic nicotine delivery systems, while a "vape pen" specifically refers to a device with a slim, pen-like shape. While people often use the terms interchangeably, a vape pen is just one style of the many different types of vapes available.
Why do some people call vapes "mods"?
The term "mod" comes from the early days of vaping when enthusiasts would "modify" flashlights or other battery housings to create vaporizers. Today, it refers to larger, regulated devices that allow you to modify settings like wattage and temperature to customize your experience.
What are the small, rectangular vapes called?
Small, rectangular devices are typically called "pod systems" or "pod mods." They are designed for portability and ease of use, using a plastic pod to hold e-liquid rather than a traditional glass and metal tank. A good example is the Vaporesso XROS 2 pod system starter kit.
What do you call a vape that you throw away when it's empty?
These are called "disposable vapes" or "disposables." They are all-in-one units that come pre-charged and pre-filled with e-liquid, intended to be used until the battery or liquid runs out and then discarded responsibly. Brands like the Geek Vape Raz TN9000 Disposable Vape are common examples.
