Switching from cigarettes or just curious about vaping? The sheer number of devices on the market can make it feel overwhelming. This guide cuts through the noise so you can make a confident first choice.
What Type of Device Do You Need?
There are three main categories for beginners:
- Pod Kits — Compact, draw-activated (no buttons), and low-maintenance. Ideal if you want something that mimics the feel of a cigarette. Great for nic salts.
- Starter Kits (Pen Style) — Slightly larger, with a button to fire. More battery life and better vapour production than pods. A solid middle ground.
- Disposables — Convenient but not cost-effective long-term. Fine for trying vaping, but we'd recommend moving to a refillable device quickly.
What Nicotine Strength Should You Start With?
This depends on how heavily you smoked:
- Heavy smoker (20+ a day): 20mg nic salt
- Moderate smoker (10–20 a day): 10–20mg nic salt
- Light smoker (under 10 a day): 5–10mg, or even 3mg freebase
Nic salts are smoother at higher strengths — ideal for pod kits. Freebase nicotine gives a stronger throat hit and suits lower-powered devices less well at high strengths.
MTL vs DTL: What Does It Mean?
- MTL (Mouth to Lung) — You draw vapour into your mouth first, then inhale. Closest to smoking. Most beginner kits are MTL.
- DTL (Direct to Lung) — You inhale directly into the lungs. Produces more vapour, suits experienced vapers.
Start MTL. It's familiar, efficient, and works with higher nicotine strengths.
Our Recommendation
Visit us in store at Letchworth, Hertfordshire — our team will match you to a device based on your smoking habits, budget, and preferences. No upselling, just honest advice.
Browse our starter kits online, or pop in and we'll sort you out in minutes.