What's the difference between a vape pod and a vape tank?

Dec 16, 2025

Have you ever wondered what the difference is between a vape pod and a vape tank? Some people get the two confused; after all, certain models look very similar.

The vape pod vs. vape tank debate has been around for years; how are they different, and which one is better? While both are great designs in their own right, each one offers a completely different experience.

One prioritises comfort and simplicity, while the other focuses on personalisation and flexibility. So, while they both offer a satisfactory hit, the right one for you depends on which design, vaping method, and upkeep you prefer.

We’ll dive right into the main differences between them today so that you can identify each one with ease. In the meantime, browse our collection of the best new vapes on the market for your new favourite device.

What is a vape pod system?

A vape pod (also known as a pod kit) is a device that has really changed the game for the vaping community, thanks to its slimline design and easy-to-use mechanisms.

Their compact, lightweight casing makes them the perfect go-to choice for people who vape on the go. They fit perfectly in any pocket, so they’re easy to travel with. A vape pod uses a pod (cartridge) to hold your e-liquid, rather than a traditional screw-on tank.

The pod is attached to a small battery unit, and they typically come with either a built-in coil or a replaceable coil, depending on your preference.

The two main types

Now, there are two types of vape pod systems you can buy:

Closed pod systems (prefilled pods): These pods come prefilled and sealed, so you can’t refill them. Once the pod is empty, you simply dispose of it and replace it with a new prefilled pod.
Open (refillable) pod systems: A more flexible and eco-friendly design, these pods can be refilled with e-liquid. You can choose between more e-juice flavours and reduce plastic waste.

How a pod system actually works

One reason many frequent vapers love vape pods is that they’re quick and easy to use, with no complicated setup.

Fill the pod or insert a new closed pod system.
Inhale to activate the device or press the start button.
The activation will prompt the coil to heat, warming the e-liquid until it turns to vapour.
Inhale through the mouthpiece, typically using a mouth-to-lung (MTL) draw.

What is a vape tank?

Now, vape tanks are when things get a little more interesting. These devices are bigger and more advanced compared to your vape pod.

In fact, you have to build and assemble these yourself, since you can choose from different parts to create a customisable setup. These typically include the following parts:

A tank (where the e-liquid sits)
A coil (added to the tank and replaceable)
A drip tip (attached to the mouthpiece)
Airflow control (often a ring or slide button)
A chimney (for airflow)
A bottom section (attached with a 510 connection)

Since these require you to know how to build and customise your vaping experience, they’re more suited to experienced vapers. In most setups, the tank sits on top of the battery/device, and the coil needs to be changed once you start to taste a burnt or dull flavour.

MTL tanks vs sub-ohm tanks

Vape tanks come in two different designs: MTL and sub-ohm. Each one offers a unique experience with different coil types.

MTL (mouth-to-lung) tanks: Built for a tighter draw, these use higher-resistance coils, over 1.0 ohm. These are perfect for those who want a cigarette-like experience and fewer vapour clouds. Thinner liquids, such as 50/50 blends and nic salts, are used with MTL tanks.
Sub-ohm tanks: With lower resistance coils (below 1.0 ohm), these provide a more open draw and large clouds. These are commonly paired with thicker, high-VG e-liquids, as they vaporise more quickly.

How to use a tank without burning coils

Since vape tanks are a little more complicated to use, you want to make sure you’re doing everything right to avoid burning through the coils.

Prime the coil: Always allow the cotton to soak for a bit with a small drop of e-liquid before taking your first puff.
Change the coils regularly: Since coils can quickly deteriorate, you want to watch out for signs of damage and replace them often. Especially with sub-ohm coils, since they burn quicker.
Don’t ignore warning signs: Early signs that your coil is damaged, like e-liquid that tastes harsher, muted, or burnt, signal that your coil needs to be replaced. Ignoring them could lead to a damaged vape tank.

The real differences that matter

So, now that we’ve discussed what a vape tank and a vape pod are, what are the main things that set them apart?

1. How they’re built

Pod systems have a fairly simple design, with a single cartridge that contains the chamber for the e-liquid and the coil. Depending on the style of device, the coil can either be built into the pod (closed pods) or feature a separate, replaceable coil.

On the other hand, tanks are more modular. These feature separate parts that can be added and removed for a customisable vape. Tanks often use a standard thread connection (commonly 510), allowing people to swap tanks between devices or upgrade the tank without changing the whole kit.

While you have more control, you also have more responsibility.

2. Vapour, airflow, and draw style

The coil resistance, power, and airflow all work together to create the vapour.

A lot of pod kits come with higher-resistance coils and lower power settings, providing a mouth-to-lung (MTL) inhale. Some kits come with adjustable airflow, but you have less flexibility than you do with a vape tank to prevent leaks.

Sub-ohm tanks are built with lower-resistance coils that run at a higher wattage. Since this creates more heat and vapour, and they come with wider airflow control, you’re left with a direct-to-lung (DTL) draw.

3. E-liquid

The right liquid depends on how fast the coil can wick.

High-VG e-liquid is thicker and can take longer to soak into the cotton, while high-PG e-liquid is thinner and generally wicks faster. Since pods have smaller wick openings, they perform best with thin or high PG juice. Using high-VG liquid will just result in dry hits and a burnt taste.

Sub-ohm tanks, however, are designed with coil ports and airflow that allow more liquid to be fed at higher power. That’s why high-VG liquids are most compatible with these vape kits. MTL tanks can also be used with nic salts!

4. Cost

Tanks cost more upfront since they come with more advanced parts and sometimes require you to purchase a separate mod or battery.

However, vape pods can be more expensive overall, since you have to replace the whole pod when it becomes damaged or keep replacing the coils. Either option can add up, but it’s best to choose the refillable pods for something more sustainable.

With tanks, you usually only have to replace the coil itself, meaning there are fewer maintenance costs to factor into your purchase.

5. Upkeep

If you’re more bothered about the actual upkeep side of things rather than the cost, then a vape pod is the ultimate winner.

All you need to do is keep the mouthpiece and outer body clean, and replace the pods or coil when the flavour starts to diminish. When it comes to vape tanks, coil priming matters more because a dry coil used at a higher power can burn quickly.

That means you’ll have to prime the new coil every time you replace the old one and disassemble all of the parts to soak them every now and then. You’ll then have to resemble it once they’re clean.

Which should you choose?

So, when it comes to deciding between the two, it really depends on how often you’ll use your vape and whether you want a simple or customisable setup.

Choose a pod if…

You want a straightforward daily kit.
You care more about a compact vape you can put in your pocket and quick refills.
You plan to use 50/50 or nic salts most of the time.

Choose a tank if…

You like more control over airflow and coil options.
You want to use high-VG e-liquid (often a better match with many sub-ohm tanks).
You don’t mind a little more upkeep.

We have a great selection of vape pods and vape tanks at Juicemate, featuring starter kits from renowned brands like Geekvape, Aspire, and ELF. Plus, we offer popular items at competitive prices, so you get the most for your money.