New vapers often need help deciding whether to invest in a longer-lasting vape mod or switch between disposable vapes. The decision gets tougher if you don’t know the basics about disposable vapes.
This article delves into how long a disposable vape lasts and other information that typically influences its longevity. It also weighs on some advice, benefits, and newer developments.
Realistically, How Long Does a Disposable Vape Last?
This question has no direct answer, but certain estimates are widely accepted.
Generally, a traditional (basic) disposable vape can last up to 600 puffs. With innovation, you can now find options for disposable vapes producing thousands of puffs before they’re discarded. If you’re unfamiliar with the concept of vaping and the expected number of puffs, you should check out this guide.
Now, the number of puffs is often an abstract concept to smokers or new vapers because they’re measuring the life of a vape through days. So, to understand what 600 puffs translates to as the number of days, there’s some basic calculation involved.
For example, let’s start with a simple premise: A cigarette smoker takes ten puffs from one cigarette, and a cigarette pack typically has 20 pieces. That translates to one box having traditional cigarettes worth 200 puffs. Now, the life of a pack depends on how many cigarettes are used in a day, hence dividing the puffs over those days.
To translate this into vape terms, a disposable vape with 600 puffs will then last 60 days if a user takes ten puffs per use, as they would with a cigarette. So, they would replace the device after two months, but this is generally a conservative estimate.
Those who are chain smokers and are planning on chain vaping may go through one disposable vape a day. In comparison, a moderate smoker or light vaper can make one vape device last a few days or weeks, maybe even months. However, the lifespan can only extend to a month or two due to technical limitations.
As a consumer, you may be skeptical of the puff count on a pack. A rule of thumb is to lowball how long your vape device will last because the number of puffs on the packaging is an estimation and not the rule. Other factors can also decrease the device’s output, so you may not get the printed number of puffs.
Users often doubt product claims because brands want to tell you exactly what you want to hear. However, nowadays, there’s a vast online archive of information you can tap into to learn from real experiences.
What Affects the Life of a Disposable Vape?
Reading product reviews online is a good way to learn about what vape is worth your money and what is not. But it also adds to the list of questions.
Some users last the same product more days than others, while some get a faulty piece or a disappointing experience.
It’s good to know that even with a disposable vape, which has a fixed lifespan, some variables can increase its use.
Vaping Style
The most notable yet diverse factor is your vaping style. It may be a new term for some, but it’s a fairly simple concept. It comes down to:
1. How Often One Vapes
Heavy vapers or regulars are those who need a vape on them at all times. They frequently puff throughout an hour or the day and often run out of vape juice or disposable vapes pretty quickly.
Infrequent vapers don’t necessarily need a vape throughout the day. They may take a few puffs occasionally or at a particular time of the day (e.g., at night while decompressing). Their products last them a considerable amount of time.
2. How Long Each Puff Is
This concept can be tricky. A puff count for a disposable vape is considered a normal short puff as one puff. Someone who takes an even smaller puff is thus only using half a puff, while someone who takes a deeper, longer puff could be using two puffs at a time.
So, a regular vaper (taking short puffs) may have a disposable vape that lasts longer than an infrequent vaper (who takes longer puffs).
Technical Issues
Small issues are bound to come up with any product. Users may accidentally drop their vapes on hard surfaces or spill liquids on them, which can drastically decrease a vape’s use. Other severe damage will also render the vape useless.
Additionally, battery life is a common topic. Basic disposable vapes come with pre-charged batteries, which mostly can’t be recharged. So even if you don’t finish the vape juice inside, you could run out of battery sooner than expected. That can be frustrating for infrequent vapers who leave their vapes idle in between uses.
Here, a rechargeable disposable vape can be a better option. But it may seem like a larger investment than a disposable device.
Product Quality
Not all vapes are created equal, even in the same category. You’ll find disposable vapes with the same puff count estimation but varying prices.
Some producers invest in their technology to give you the best user experience, even for a limited time. In contrast, others invest according to the expected life of their product, so innovation in a short lifespan device is a waste of money.
While the most expensive product on the market isn’t necessarily the best, a product that’s too cheap won’t always last you as many puffs as it claims. Plus, it could also break or malfunction a lot sooner than one would expect.
Different Types of Disposable Vapes
All disposable vapes aren’t made equal, and the type you buy tells you how long it’ll last. The most common product seen is a basic non-rechargeable vape, but there are a few other options that you can compare.
1. Non-rechargeable Disposable Vapes
The basic transition of smokers to vapers generally happens through a non-rechargeable disposable vape. It comes with a charged battery and non-refillable vape juice. Once either of the two runs out, they can replace the vape. Vape bars, pen-style vapes, and cigarette-style (e-cigarette) vapes come under this category.
These generally have the shortest lifespan and last 300-600 puffs. However, some new options on the market can go beyond this estimate.
2. Rechargeable Disposable Vapes
The second step into disposable vapes is the rechargeable models. They allow longer usage because you can recharge the batteries, but ultimately, their life is according to the e-liquid capacity. For those who are infrequent users and leave their vapes at their bedside now and then, these are a better fit.
Since the e-liquid limits the puff count, these may range from 500 to 600 puffs.
3. Pod-Style Disposable Vapes
An honorary mention is Pod-Style disposable vapes because these were only available as non-disposable options previously. Many users prefer them because of the popular style; however, these vapes can outlast other disposables on the market.
They come with a higher-powered battery and more juice than the average disposable. Some disposable pods are also rechargeable. These have a puff range measured in the lower four digits.
Signs Your Disposable Vape Is Empty
It may seem like a no-brainer, but every vape doesn’t suddenly stop working. Most of the time, there are small indicators that you should probably get a replacement soon.
If you’ve been using your vape regularly and see any of these signs, it can mean the vape is finished. However, if you’ve left your vape unattended for a while and experienced these issues, don’t throw it away yet. It may take a few tries to jump-start it. In case nothing changes, it’s time to get a new one.
Reduced Vapor
The first sign you’re running out of fuel is when you start getting less vapor or dry hits. Sometimes, there’s a gradual decrease in every puff you take, so you can tell a visible difference. Other times, the vapor stops tasting like the flavor and becomes bland.
Since this is an issue related to the e-liquid, there’s nothing you can do to change it. If you don’t stop using the vape at this point, you will eventually get the next sign, which is a burnt taste.
Burnt Taste
Dry hits are a pet peeve for users. They happen when the e-liquid has completely run out, so you get a burnt puff, basically remnants of vape juice and fried wick material. At this point, the device is useless.
You’ll find vape enthusiasts posting hacks for refilling the juice tank of disposables, but it isn’t necessarily a safe or advised practice. It’s best to replace the device now.
Dead LED
Not all disposables have a light or LED to indicate the device is on, but it’s a common feature nowadays. It’s a useful component because you can get a hint about the battery life from it.
If the light doesn’t turn on, the battery is dead. However, a faulty light may turn off while the device still works, so it’s best to try before throwing it away. For those who own a rechargeable disposable, this is the time to put it on charge.
How Can Your Disposable Vape Last Longer?
A longer lifespan for your disposable vape device means less pressure on your pocket. You’ll eventually replace it, but trying to make it work for several months is a good way to get your money’s worth.
So long as the battery life isn’t compromised, there’s enough juice in the tank, and there’s no obvious damage, you can extend the overall lifespan of your device. Here are some tips typically used by enthusiasts:
Take Shorter Puffs
The puff count is notorious for being a highball estimate sometimes, but it isn’t necessarily incorrect. The manufacturers test a device’s puff count with a machine or a human. On average, these puffs are one second long. That is a “short puff” in the eyes of a heavy vaper but accurate for a light vaper.
So, if you’re running out of puffs quicker than you’d like, try to take shorter puffs and let the device cool down in between vaping sessions. You never know how many puffs you’re technically using up in one deep puff.
Get a Rechargeable Device
Typically, disposable vapes last longer if rechargeable because they possess a higher battery capacity and e-liquid capacity. However, only the battery is rechargeable, so once the e-liquid is depleted, you’ll need to replace this device, too.
A heavy vaper would prefer a rechargeable device to maximize the opportunity to finish the e-liquid. At the same time, a light vaper may opt for it so that it doesn’t stop working when they forget about it for a while.
Use Your Device Carefully
Most disposable vapes require some care, but these are simple steps to extend their lifespan, unlike maintenance for buildable devices. It can positively affect your device’s performance so your vaping experience remains consistent.
Storing your device in a cool and dry place is important; prolonged exposure to heat can affect the vape fluid, outer plastic, or coil. Also, roughly handling your device means having to replace it sooner.
Why Are Disposable Vapes a Good Option?
Vape preference comes down to the nature of the user. Now that you’re aware of vaping styles and common issues that come up with disposable vapes, you can make an informed decision based on some important factors.
Moreover, there are some basic advantages of using disposable vapes that attract users:
1. Smaller Commitment
To start off, you don’t have to maintain them to get your money’s worth. The buildable vapes and larger models require a ton of maintenance for their tanks, coil, and additional accessories like the atomizer. Plus, you must buy vape juice separately and take the time to clean and refill the tanks. This process is easier for experienced vapers.
With disposable vapes, there’s less responsibility and learning required to get into the vaping scene. Light vapers aren’t interested in the specifics, and some regular ones don’t want the headache.
2. Great Options
Unlike reusable pods or mods, disposable vapes come in all shapes and sizes to accommodate your needs and aesthetics. They’re also much more discreet for those who don’t want to announce their habit. They tend to look sleeker, be lighter, and have a straightforward button to turn on. No manual is needed.
You can choose different sizes, puff counts, colors, flavors, and brands. There are also sustainable options (recyclable), vegan (flavors), and a few hidden gems.
3. Budget Friendly
From the get-go, disposable vapes are more cost-effective. You don’t have to sacrifice a significant portion of your income or get into the added expenses of replacement parts. Since it’s cheaper, you also know what to expect from the product.
The best part is that even when they fall within an economical price range, a wide variety of vape styles are available for you.
4. Optimal Convenience
Probably the best part of a disposable vape is its convenience. You can buy it off the shelf, turn it on, and enjoy it. Once it’s depleted, just replace it with a new one. There’s no set-up required, and you can buy disposables from any vape shop near you.
There’s also no mess caused by the e-liquid or burned coils, a common problem with buildable devices. Any disposable vape style you choose only needs moderate care and minimal knowledge.
Latest Development in Disposable Vapes
Disposable vapes have come a long way since their inception. They’ve played a significant role in becoming a bridge for traditional smokers to shift to electronic modes of nicotine and non-nicotine smoke doses and revolutionized the vaping experience.
They also aren’t done yet, as companies continue their efforts to improve disposable vapes’ experience, technology, and reputation.
Some recent headliners are:
1. Higher Puff Count
While the average puff count for disposable vapes remains capped at a few hundred, some companies have taken this count to the max. You can now find disposable vapes offering between 1000 to 10,000 puff counts.
They also come in a wide range of styles, flavors, and prices; however, cost-wise, they’re a higher investment than the average disposable device. Experienced vapers or those who chain vaping may gravitate towards these higher-powered devices.
2. Disposable Cannabis Vape
Vape technology has recently fused with the growing legal cannabis world. As the user demographic increases, they demand more convenience and better ways to access cannabis. Disposable cannabis vapes are that bridge.
Rather than smoking cannabis, users can now vape cannabis infused e-liquid or oils. This alternative saves them from the harmful affects of smoke and is a cleaner process.
From Thumb-Sized to Dual-Coiled, disposable cannabis vape devices are making their mark. These are some technologies that manufacturers would have considered impossible less than a decade ago. New ideas combine with the latest technologies to give consumers the best experience.
3. Focus on Sustainability
The biggest step companies are taking is making disposable vape devices more sustainable. Technically, vape devices are classified as electronic waste, so there are specific steps to recycle them. Not all devices are safe to recycle, but globally, many groups are moving forward to help recycle disposable vapes.
Disposable vapes are also recyclable. However, not all products have the same recycling process. Some products require different recyclable and non-recyclable components to be processed separately, while others can go whole into the bins. However, a lack of resources such as recycling plants or programs has made it difficult for users.
Bottomline
The world of disposable vapes is steadily growing, so the lifespan of disposables is also changing. To get an insider look at some of the latest vape device technology and learn more about Cilicon®, get in touch with the experts at Cilicon.
