This UK vape glossary explains more than 150 common vaping terms in plain English. It covers vape kits, pod systems, coils, e-liquids, nicotine strengths, battery safety, rebuildable atomisers, troubleshooting and the UK regulations affecting vaping in 2026.
Whether you are moving away from cigarettes, choosing your first refillable pod kit or comparing advanced vape hardware, use the A–Z navigation below to find the term you need.
Regulatory information last reviewed: July 2026.
Quick Guide to Essential Vape Terms
Before moving into the complete A–Z glossary, these are the terms most new vapers are likely to encounter.
MTL
MTL stands for mouth-to-lung. Vapour is drawn into the mouth before being inhaled into the lungs, creating a tighter sensation similar to smoking a cigarette.
RDL
RDL stands for restricted direct-to-lung. It provides a more open draw and greater vapour production than MTL, without being as airy as full direct-to-lung vaping.
DTL
DTL stands for direct-to-lung. Vapour is inhaled directly into the lungs using an open airflow, higher-powered device and usually a lower-resistance coil.
Pod Kit
A compact vape device that uses a removable pod instead of a conventional glass tank. Depending on the system, the pod may contain a built-in coil or accept a separate replaceable coil.
Prefilled Pod Kit
A rechargeable device that uses sealed pods already filled with e-liquid. Once the pod is empty, it is replaced rather than refilled by the user.
Refillable Pod Kit
A reusable pod system that allows the user to fill the pod with a compatible bottled e-liquid.
Nic Salt
Nicotine salt is a form of nicotine commonly used in 10ml e-liquids and prefilled pods. It usually provides a smoother throat sensation than an equivalent-strength freebase nicotine liquid.
Shortfill
A larger bottle of nicotine-free e-liquid containing enough empty space for one or more nicotine shots.
Mesh Coil
A heating element made from a strip or grid of metal mesh. Its large surface area can provide even heating, consistent flavour and efficient vapour production.
Ohms
Ohms, shown by the Ω symbol, measure electrical resistance. Coil resistance helps determine the suitable power level, airflow and vaping style.
UK Vape Regulations and Legal Terms
Age Restriction
Vaping products containing nicotine cannot legally be sold to anyone under 18 in the UK. The Tobacco and Vapes Act 2026 also extends age-of-sale controls to other vaping and nicotine products under its implementation timetable.
Child-Resistant Packaging
Packaging designed to reduce the chance of a child opening a nicotine-containing e-liquid bottle. Compliant 10ml bottles normally use a press-and-turn cap.
Disposable Vape Ban
The UK-wide ban that made it illegal for businesses to sell or supply single-use vapes from 1 June 2025. It applies to nicotine-containing and nicotine-free single-use devices.
A vape must meet the relevant legal requirements for recharging, refilling and replacing its heating element or coil-containing pod to remain on sale.
Adult vapers moving away from single-use devices can compare the latest rechargeable prefilled pod kits.
MHRA Notification
The process through which producers submit information about nicotine-containing vaping products to the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency before they are legally placed on the UK market.
Nicotine Warning
The required packaging statement displayed on most nicotine-containing vaping products:
“This product contains nicotine which is a highly addictive substance.”
Tobacco and Related Products Regulations
The UK regulations commonly known as TRPR. They set requirements covering nicotine-containing e-liquids and devices, including notification, packaging, ingredient reporting and product capacity.
Tobacco and Vapes Act 2026
UK legislation that received Royal Assent on 29 April 2026. It establishes the smoke-free generation policy and creates powers for tighter controls over vape advertising, promotion, flavours, packaging, presentation, display and product standards.
Different measures may begin on different dates and may require additional regulations before coming into force.
TPD
TPD stands for Tobacco Products Directive. The term is still widely used by UK retailers and manufacturers when describing product requirements originally introduced under European legislation and retained in UK law.
Commonly referenced limits include:
- A maximum 2ml capacity for nicotine-containing vape tanks and pods
- A maximum 10ml bottle size for nicotine-containing refill e-liquid
- A maximum nicotine strength of 20mg/ml
- Child-resistant and tamper-evident packaging
- Product notification and ingredient-reporting requirements
TPD-Compliant
A commonly used retail term for a vaping product that meets the applicable UK capacity, strength, packaging and notification requirements.
TRPR
TRPR stands for Tobacco and Related Products Regulations. This is the more precise term for the UK regulations governing nicotine-containing vaping products.
Vaping Duty Stamp
An approved stamp or marking used under the Vaping Duty Stamps Scheme to show that a vaping liquid has met the relevant duty requirements.
Vaping Products Duty
A new UK excise duty due to take effect on 1 October 2026. It will be charged at £2.20 per 10ml of vaping liquid, regardless of whether the liquid contains nicotine.
This means the duty will apply to products including nic salts, freebase e-liquids, nicotine shots and nicotine-free shortfills.
Read our complete UK Vape Tax 2026 guide for a full breakdown of the new duty, important dates and expected retail price changes.
Vape Advertising Restrictions
Rules controlling how vaping and nicotine products may be advertised or promoted. The Tobacco and Vapes Act 2026 introduces wider controls, with major advertising and sponsorship restrictions scheduled separately from the Act’s Royal Assent.
Complete A–Z Vape Glossary
A
10ml E-Liquid
A small bottle of e-liquid commonly used for nicotine salts and freebase nicotine liquids. UK nicotine-containing refill bottles are limited to a maximum capacity of 10ml.
18650 Battery
A removable cylindrical lithium-ion battery commonly used in vape mods. The name refers approximately to its 18mm diameter and 65mm length.
Only batteries suitable for vaping should be used, and the manufacturer’s continuous discharge rating must be respected.
20700 Battery
A removable lithium-ion battery measuring approximately 20mm in diameter and 70mm in length. It is less common than 18650 and 21700 cells.
21700 Battery
A larger removable lithium-ion battery measuring approximately 21mm in diameter and 70mm in length. It can offer greater capacity or current capability than many 18650 batteries, depending on the cell.
Adapter
A component that allows one type of pod, tank, mouthpiece or connection to be used with another device.
Adjustable Airflow
A ring, wheel, switch or slider that changes how much air enters the device during inhalation.
Less airflow normally creates a tighter draw. More airflow normally produces a looser draw and can support greater vapour production.
Adjustable Wattage
A feature that allows the user to manually change the device’s power output.
AFC
AFC stands for airflow control. It refers to the mechanism used to make the draw tighter or airier.
Airflow
The amount of air that travels through a vape device when the user inhales. Airflow affects draw tightness, coil temperature, flavour and vapour production.
Airflow Slider
A sliding control used to adjust the amount of air entering a pod kit or vape tank.
AIO
AIO stands for all-in-one. It describes an integrated vape system in which the battery, controls and e-liquid delivery components form one compact setup.
An AIO device may still use removable pods, replaceable coils or compatible bridge systems.
All-Day Vape
An informal term for an e-liquid flavour that someone enjoys using regularly throughout the day.
Amp
An ampere is a unit used to measure electrical current. Understanding current demand is particularly important when using removable batteries or mechanical mods.
Annealing
The process of heating and cooling metal wire to change its physical properties. The term is sometimes encountered when discussing specialist rebuildable coil wire.
Atomiser
The part of a vape that turns e-liquid into vapour. It normally includes a heating coil and wick.
The term may refer broadly to a tank, pod, clearomiser, RDA, RTA or another complete heating assembly.
Atty
An informal abbreviation for atomiser.
Auto-Draw
A firing system that activates automatically when the user inhales through the mouthpiece.
Auto-Shut-Off
A safety feature that turns the device off or stops firing after a set period or detected fault.
B
Bar-Style Flavour
A bold, sweet flavour profile designed to resemble the taste intensity associated with disposable vapes and modern prefilled pod systems.
Bar Salts
Nic salt e-liquids designed to provide the sweet, concentrated flavour style associated with disposable vapes.
Some include cooling notes, but the exact formulation depends on the brand and flavour.
Learn more about this flavour style in our Bar Juice 5000 nic salts review.
Battery Capacity
The amount of electrical charge a battery can store, commonly expressed in milliampere-hours or mAh.
Battery Charger
A device used to recharge removable vape batteries outside the mod.
A suitable external charger is generally recommended for removable cells, particularly when using two or more batteries.
Battery Door
The removable or hinged panel that provides access to the battery compartment of a vape mod.
Battery Indicator
A light, icon, percentage or on-screen graphic showing the device’s approximate remaining charge.
Battery Pairing
The practice of keeping two or more removable batteries together as a permanent set for use in a multi-battery mod.
Paired batteries should normally be the same make, model and age, and should have been used and charged together.
Battery Sag
A temporary reduction in battery voltage under load. The amount of sag depends on factors including the cell, charge level, internal resistance, condition and current demand.
Bypass Mode
A regulated device mode that delivers power in a way intended to resemble the changing output of a mechanical mod while retaining some electronic protections.
Blend Ratio
The relative proportions of VG and PG in an e-liquid, such as 50VG/50PG or 70VG/30PG.
Boost Mode
A power setting that provides a stronger or faster initial output. The exact behaviour varies by manufacturer and device.
Bore
The internal width of a mouthpiece or airflow passage. A wider bore is often associated with airier DTL vaping.
Bottom Airflow
An airflow design in which air enters beneath the coil.
Bottom Fill
A refill design requiring access to a filling port on the underside of a tank or pod.
Box Mod
A box-shaped vape device that normally offers adjustable power and supports a separate tank or atomiser.
Bridge
A rebuildable or replaceable-coil atomiser section designed to fit inside a compatible boro-style tank or AIO device.
Boro Tank
A compact rectangular e-liquid tank format used in compatible AIO and boro devices.
Burnt Coil
A coil whose wick or heating surface has deteriorated, creating an unpleasant burnt or degraded flavour.
Burnt Taste
An unpleasant flavour usually caused by a dry wick, worn coil, unsuitable power setting, overly thick e-liquid or insufficient time allowed for priming.
Our guide to fixing weak or burnt vape flavour covers the most common causes and solutions.
C
Capacity
The amount of e-liquid or battery charge a product can hold.
Pod and tank capacity is measured in millilitres. Battery capacity is normally measured in mAh.
Caramelisation
The darkening and build-up that can occur on a coil when sweeteners and other e-liquid ingredients are repeatedly heated.
Cartridge
Another word for a vape pod. A cartridge may be refillable, prefilled or disposable after use.
Ceramic Coil
A heating assembly that incorporates porous ceramic as part of its wicking or heating structure.
Performance and longevity vary by design and should not be assumed to be better than every cotton-based coil.
Chain Vaping
Taking repeated puffs with little time between them.
Chain vaping can prevent the wick from resaturating properly and may increase the risk of a dry hit.
Chipset
The electronic control system inside a regulated vape device. It manages features such as wattage, firing, charging, resistance detection and safety protections.
Chimney
The internal passage that carries vapour from the coil towards the mouthpiece of a tank.
Cigarette-Style Draw
A tight MTL inhale designed to feel closer to drawing on a conventional cigarette.
Clapton Coil
A coil wire made by wrapping a thinner wire around a thicker central wire, resembling a guitar string.
Clearomiser
An older term for a transparent refillable vape tank containing a replaceable coil.
Closed Pod System
A pod system designed to use sealed prefilled pods rather than user-refillable cartridges.
Cloud Chasing
The use of suitable high-powered hardware, open airflow and high-VG e-liquid to produce large vapour clouds.
Coil
The heating component inside a vape. When powered, it heats the e-liquid held in the wick and turns it into vapour.
Coil Head
A prebuilt replaceable coil unit containing the heating element, wick, casing and seals.
Coil Gunk
A dark residue that collects on the coil and wick after repeated heating. Sweet, dark or heavily flavoured e-liquids may cause build-up more quickly.
Coil Jig
A rod or tool used to shape and position rebuildable coils.
Coil Leg
One of the wire ends extending from a rebuildable coil. The legs are secured into the atomiser’s build posts or clamps.
Coil Life
The length of time a coil remains usable before its flavour or vapour performance deteriorates.
Coil life depends on the e-liquid, wattage, frequency of use, priming, airflow and individual vaping habits.
See our guide explaining how long vape coils last and the signs that a replacement is needed.
Coil Resistance
The electrical resistance of a coil, measured in ohms.
Connection
The interface linking a tank, pod or atomiser to the battery section of a device.
Connector Pin
The conductive contact that transfers power between a device and its pod, coil or tank.
Constant Output
A feature that attempts to maintain consistent power as the battery charge decreases.
Continuous Discharge Rating
The level of current a battery manufacturer states a cell can continuously supply within its operating limits. It is usually shown in amps.
COREX
A Vaporesso-branded heating and wicking technology used in selected pods and coils. Different COREX generations may use different mesh structures and materials.
It is a manufacturer technology name rather than an industry-wide coil standard.
Cotton
A widely used wicking material that absorbs e-liquid and carries it to the heating element.
Cut-Off Protection
A safety feature that stops the device firing after the button has been held or the draw has continued for a set number of seconds.
D
Deck
The section of a rebuildable atomiser where the coil and cotton are installed.
Deep Lung
An informal alternative term for direct-to-lung vaping.
Diameter
The width of a tank, atomiser or cylindrical device, usually measured in millimetres.
Direct-to-Lung
A vaping style in which vapour is inhaled directly into the lungs.
DTL devices generally use open airflow, lower-resistance coils, greater power and lower-strength e-liquids than typical MTL setups.
DL
An abbreviation for direct lung or direct-to-lung.
Double Mesh
A coil or pod containing two mesh heating elements. The elements may operate together or alternate depending on the product design.
Draw
The resistance and airflow sensation experienced when inhaling through a vape.
A tight draw is normally associated with MTL vaping, while an airy draw is associated with DTL vaping.
Draw Activation
Another term for auto-draw. The device detects inhalation and activates without a fire button.
Drip Tip
The removable or integrated mouthpiece through which vapour is inhaled.
Dry Burn
Heating a rebuildable coil without cotton to help identify hot spots or remove limited surface residue.
Dry burning should only be performed with suitable rebuildable wire and equipment. It should not be attempted on standard replaceable coils or pods.
Dry Hit
An unpleasant burnt-tasting inhale caused when insufficient e-liquid reaches the wick before the coil heats.
DTL
DTL stands for direct-to-lung.
DTL vaping is commonly paired with a compatible sub-ohm vape tank and lower-strength high-VG e-liquid.
Dual Battery Mod
A vape mod powered by two removable batteries.
Dual Coil
An atomiser or coil head containing two heating coils.
Dual Mesh
A heating arrangement using two mesh elements to increase heating area or distribute use.
E
E-Cigarette
Another name for a vape or electronic cigarette. Modern pod kits and vape mods can differ significantly from early cigarette-shaped e-cigarettes.
E-Juice
Another name for e-liquid. The term is used more frequently in North America but is also understood in the UK.
E-Liquid
The liquid heated inside a vape to create vapour.
E-liquid generally contains VG, PG, flavourings and optional nicotine. Some products may use a predominantly VG or PG formulation.
E-Liquid Capacity
The amount of e-liquid a pod, tank or bottle can hold, normally measured in millilitres.
ECO Mode
A device setting designed to reduce power consumption or extend battery life. The exact operation varies by manufacturer.
Electronic Nicotine Delivery System
A technical term for an electronic product that delivers nicotine through an inhaled aerosol or vapour.
It is commonly abbreviated to ENDS.
ENDS
ENDS stands for electronic nicotine delivery system.
Excise Duty
A tax charged on specific goods. Vaping Products Duty is the UK excise duty due to apply to vaping liquids from 1 October 2026.
External Battery
A removable battery that can be taken out of the vape mod and charged in a suitable external charger.
F
Fire Button
The button pressed to activate the coil and produce vapour.
Fixed Airflow
A device with no manual airflow adjustment.
Fixed Coil Pod
A pod with the coil permanently built into the cartridge. The complete pod is replaced when the coil reaches the end of its useful life.
Flooding
A condition in which too much e-liquid enters the coil chamber or airflow path.
Flooding can cause gurgling, leaking, weak vapour or liquid entering the mouthpiece.
Flavour Concentrate
A concentrated flavouring used when manufacturing or mixing e-liquid. It is not normally intended to be vaped on its own.
Flavour Ghosting
A previous e-liquid flavour remaining in the pod, tank or coil after a different liquid has been added.
Freebase Nicotine
The traditional form of nicotine used in many e-liquids.
Compared with nic salts at the same stated strength, it will often provide a more noticeable throat sensation, although the experience also depends on the device and formulation.
Read our full comparison of nic salts vs freebase nicotine.
Filling Port
The opening through which e-liquid is added to a refillable pod or tank.
Firmware
Software installed on the chipset of a vape device. Some advanced devices allow firmware updates through a computer or manufacturer application.
Fused Clapton
A rebuildable coil wire made from two or more central core wires wrapped with a thinner outer wire.
G
Gurgling
A bubbling sound caused by excess e-liquid in the coil, chimney or airflow system.
Glass Tube
The transparent section of a conventional vape tank that holds e-liquid.
Glycerine
A shortened name sometimes used for vegetable glycerine or VG.
Grip
The external surface or material used to make a device comfortable and secure to hold.
H
Half Ohm
A resistance of 0.5Ω.
High PG
An e-liquid containing a greater proportion of propylene glycol than vegetable glycerine.
High-PG liquids are thinner and may provide a more noticeable throat sensation.
High VG
An e-liquid containing a high proportion of vegetable glycerine, commonly 70VG or above.
High-VG liquids are generally suited to compatible lower-resistance coils and DTL devices with larger wicking ports.
Hit
An informal term describing the sensation or intensity experienced during an inhale.
Hot Spot
A section of a rebuildable coil that heats more quickly than the rest of the wire.
Hot spots should be corrected before cotton is installed and the atomiser is used.
Hybrid Connection
A mechanical mod connection in which the atomiser’s positive pin makes direct contact with the battery.
This design requires specialist battery and mechanical-mod knowledge and must only be used with a suitable protruding atomiser pin.
I
Inhale Activation
Another name for draw activation or auto-draw.
Inhale Counter
A screen feature recording the number of puffs or activations taken.
It may also be called a puff counter.
Integrated Battery
A battery permanently installed inside the device and recharged through its charging port.
Integrated Coil
A coil permanently built into a pod. The pod and coil are replaced together.
Internal Battery
Another term for an integrated or built-in battery.
J
Juice
An informal term for e-liquid.
Juice Flow Control
A mechanism found on some tanks that regulates how much e-liquid reaches the wick and coil.
Juice Port
An opening in a coil head or atomiser through which e-liquid reaches the wicking material.
K
Kanthal
A type of resistance wire commonly used in standard wattage-controlled coils and rebuildable atomisers.
Kit
A packaged vape product containing a device and the main components needed to begin using it.
The exact contents vary and may not include e-liquid, removable batteries or a charging plug.
Knurling
A textured pattern added to metal surfaces to improve grip when adjusting or removing parts.
L
Leak Resistance
Design features intended to reduce e-liquid escaping from a pod or tank.
No refillable vaping product should be assumed to be completely leak-proof under every condition.
Leaking
E-liquid escaping from a pod, tank, coil or airflow opening.
Possible causes include damaged seals, incorrect assembly, overfilling, worn coils, unsuitable e-liquid, temperature changes or leaving the device unused for long periods.
Lithium-Ion Battery
A rechargeable battery chemistry widely used in built-in and removable vape batteries.
Low-Resistance Coil
A coil with relatively low electrical resistance.
The suitable wattage and vaping style depend on the particular coil rather than on resistance alone.
Low-Resistance Protection
A regulated-device safety feature that prevents firing when the detected resistance falls below the supported range.
Low-Voltage Protection
A safety feature that stops the device operating when the battery voltage falls too low.
Lung Hit
An informal term sometimes used to describe the sensation associated with DTL vaping.
M
mAh
mAh stands for milliampere-hour. It is commonly used to express battery capacity.
A higher mAh figure can indicate longer runtime, but actual battery life also depends on power, coil resistance, usage and device efficiency.
Manual Fire
Activation using a physical button rather than auto-draw.
Mechanical Mod
A vape device with no regulating chipset between the battery and atomiser.
Mechanical mods lack many protections found in regulated devices and should only be used by people with detailed knowledge of Ohm’s law, battery limits and atomiser safety.
Mesh
A perforated metal strip or grid used as a heating element instead of a conventional round-wire coil.
Mesh Coil
A coil using metal mesh to heat the wick and e-liquid.
The larger heating area can support even heating, responsive vapour production and consistent flavour.
Mesh technology is now used across many modern replacement vape coils and fixed-coil pods.
Micro-USB
An older charging connection found on some vape devices. It has largely been replaced by USB-C.
Milliampere-Hour
The full term represented by mAh.
Milligram Strength
The concentration of nicotine in an e-liquid, usually expressed as milligrams per millilitre.
A 10mg e-liquid contains 10mg of nicotine per millilitre.
Mod
The battery and control section of a vape, particularly a device designed to use a separate tank or atomiser.
Mouthpiece
The part of the pod, tank or device placed between the lips during use.
Mouth-to-Lung
A vaping style in which vapour is drawn into the mouth before being inhaled into the lungs.
MTL vaping normally uses a tighter draw, modest vapour output and compatible higher-strength e-liquids.
MTL
MTL stands for mouth-to-lung.
For compatible hardware, see our guide to the best MTL vape tanks.
Multi-Battery Mod
A mod powered by two or more removable batteries.
N
Nickel Wire
A temperature-control coil material commonly referred to as Ni200.
It should only be used in a compatible temperature-control mode and not as an ordinary wattage coil unless explicitly supported.
Nic Shot
A small bottle of nicotine-containing liquid intended to be added to a nicotine-free shortfill.
A typical UK nic shot contains 10ml of 18mg nicotine, although other strengths and formulations are available.
Nicotine shots are commonly added to shortfill e-liquids to create the preferred nicotine strength.
Nic Salt
A nicotine formulation commonly used in pod-compatible 10ml e-liquids and prefilled pods.
Nic salts normally provide a smoother throat sensation than comparable-strength freebase liquids, making them popular in lower-powered MTL pod kits.
Browse our range of nic salt e-liquids in 5mg, 10mg and 20mg strengths.
Nicotine
An addictive substance found naturally in the tobacco plant and used in many vaping liquids.
Vaping products are intended for adults, particularly adult smokers and existing vapers. People who do not smoke or vape should not start.
Nicotine-Free
A product containing no intentionally added nicotine.
Nicotine-free vaping liquids will still fall within the scope of Vaping Products Duty from 1 October 2026.
Nicotine Salt
The full term for nic salt.
Nicotine Shot
Another name for a nic shot.
Nicotine Strength
The concentration of nicotine in an e-liquid or prefilled pod.
In the UK it is usually displayed in mg/ml or as a percentage. For example:
- 5mg/ml is approximately 0.5%
- 10mg/ml is approximately 1%
- 20mg/ml is approximately 2%
Ni80
A common abbreviation for Nichrome 80, a resistance wire used in some factory-made and rebuildable coils.
Normal Mode
A standard power setting on a device that offers alternative modes such as Eco, Boost or Power.
O
Open Pod System
A pod system designed to be refilled by the user with compatible bottled e-liquid.
Open-Circuit Protection
A device protection that prevents firing when no coil is detected or the electrical connection is incomplete.
Ohm
The unit used to measure electrical resistance.
Ohm Meter
A tool used to measure the resistance of a coil or atomiser. It is particularly important when building rebuildable coils.
Ohm’s Law
The relationship between voltage, current and resistance.
It is commonly expressed as:
Voltage = Current × Resistance
Knowledge of Ohm’s law and battery limits is essential when using mechanical mods or building advanced coils.
Ohms
The plural of ohm.
O-Ring
A circular rubber or silicone seal used to prevent e-liquid leakage and hold components securely together.
Output
The electrical power or voltage supplied by a vape device to its coil.
Overcharge Protection
A regulated-device protection intended to stop charging when the battery reaches its safe upper limit.
Overheat Protection
A feature that stops or limits operation when the device detects excessive temperature.
Overfilling
Adding too much e-liquid to a pod or tank.
Overfilling may force liquid into the central airflow passage and cause gurgling or leaking.
P
Parallel Coil
A rebuildable coil made using two or more wires running alongside each other.
Pass-Through Charging
A feature that allows a device to be used while connected to a charging cable.
Not every device supports this feature, and the manufacturer’s instructions should be followed.
PCTG
A durable transparent plastic commonly used to manufacture refillable and prefilled vape pods.
PG
PG stands for propylene glycol.
It is a relatively thin e-liquid ingredient that carries flavour effectively and can increase throat sensation.
PG/VG Ratio
The proportion of propylene glycol to vegetable glycerine in an e-liquid.
A 50VG/50PG liquid contains equal proportions of VG and PG.
Pod
A removable cartridge that holds e-liquid and connects to a compatible pod device.
A pod may be refillable or prefilled and may use either a built-in coil or a separate replaceable coil.
Pod Cartridge
Another term for a vape pod.
Pod Kit
A compact vape device that uses a pod instead of a traditional screw-on tank.
Browse our complete range of refillable pod kits.
Pod Mod
A larger or more powerful pod system combining the portability of a pod kit with features commonly found on vape mods.
Power Mode
A device setting that increases output or provides a stronger vape. Its exact behaviour differs between manufacturers.
Power Output
The amount of electrical power delivered to the coil, normally measured in watts.
Prefilled Pod
A sealed pod supplied with e-liquid already inside it.
Prefilled pods are replaced when empty and should not be opened or manually refilled unless the manufacturer specifically designed them for that purpose.
Prefilled Pod Kit
A rechargeable device designed to use compatible sealed prefilled pods.
Press-Fit Coil
A coil installed by pushing it into the base of a pod or tank rather than screwing it into place.
Prime
To saturate a new coil or pod with e-liquid before vaping.
Priming
The process of allowing e-liquid to soak fully into a new coil’s wick.
After filling a new coil or pod, it is generally sensible to wait approximately 10–15 minutes before use, unless the manufacturer specifies otherwise.
Pro-FOCS
A Uwell-branded flavour technology used in selected pods, coils and vape kits.
It is a manufacturer term rather than a universal coil standard.
Propylene Glycol
A common e-liquid ingredient also known as PG. It is thinner than VG and contributes to flavour delivery and throat sensation.
Puff
A single inhalation from a vape.
Puff Count
An estimate or recorded total of how many inhalations a product may provide or has already delivered.
Advertised puff figures are approximate and depend on draw length, power, airflow and individual usage.
Puff Counter
A device feature that records coil activations or inhalations.
Pulse Mode
A regulated-device mode that delivers power in rapid pulses rather than as a completely steady output.
The way pulse mode operates varies by manufacturer.
Q
Quick Charge
A general description for technology designed to recharge a device faster than a conventional low-current charging system.
The correct cable, power source and manufacturer specifications should be followed.
Quartz Coil
A heating assembly or chamber that uses quartz as part of its structure. It is less common in standard nicotine e-liquid devices.
R
RBA
RBA stands for rebuildable atomiser. It is a general term covering atomisers in which the user installs their own coil and wick.
RBA Deck
A small rebuildable section designed for a compatible tank, pod or AIO system.
RDA
RDA stands for rebuildable dripping atomiser.
An RDA has no conventional e-liquid tank. E-liquid is dripped directly onto the coil and wick.
RDTA
RDTA stands for rebuildable dripping tank atomiser.
It combines features associated with an RDA and an e-liquid reservoir.
Read our complete guide to RDA, RTA and RDTA vape tanks for a clearer comparison.
RDL
RDL stands for restricted direct-to-lung.
Rebuildable Atomiser
An atomiser designed for users to install and wick their own coils.
Rebuildables require suitable knowledge of coil resistance, battery safety and correct assembly.
Refillable Pod
A pod that can be opened through a filling port and filled with compatible bottled e-liquid.
Regulated Mod
A vape mod containing a chipset that controls power and provides electronic safety protections.
Replaceable Battery
A removable battery that can be taken out of the device.
Replaceable Coil
A coil head designed to be removed from the pod or tank and replaced separately.
Replaceable-Coil Pod
A refillable pod that accepts a separately replaceable coil.
Resistance
The opposition to electrical current in a coil, measured in ohms.
Restricted Direct-to-Lung
A vaping style between MTL and DTL.
RDL provides more airflow and vapour than MTL while remaining tighter and less powerful than a typical full DTL setup.
RTA
RTA stands for rebuildable tank atomiser.
It contains an e-liquid reservoir and a build deck on which the user installs their own coil and cotton.
S
Salt Nicotine
Another term for nicotine salt or nic salt.
Screen
A display showing information such as battery level, wattage, resistance, mode and puff count.
Short Circuit
An unintended low-resistance electrical path.
Regulated vape devices normally include short-circuit protection, but damaged equipment should not be used.
Shortfill
A larger bottle of nicotine-free e-liquid containing empty space for adding nicotine shots.
Common examples include:
- 50ml of e-liquid in a 60ml bottle
- 100ml of e-liquid in a 120ml bottle
- 200ml of e-liquid in a larger bottle with space for multiple shots
Browse our range of shortfill e-liquids in popular bottle sizes and flavour profiles.
Short-Circuit Protection
A regulated-device safety feature that stops the device firing when a short circuit is detected.
Side Fill
A pod or tank with a filling port located on its side.
Side-Fill Pod
A refillable pod filled through a side-mounted port, normally protected by a silicone plug.
Single-Coil Build
A rebuildable atomiser setup using one coil.
Single-Use Vape
A vaping device intended to be discarded after its e-liquid or battery is depleted.
Single-use vapes have been illegal for businesses to sell or supply in the UK since 1 June 2025.
Smart Mode
A device feature that detects the installed coil or pod and automatically recommends or sets a suitable power output.
Users should still check the coil’s specified wattage range.
Spitback
Small droplets of hot e-liquid travelling through the mouthpiece during use.
Spitback may be caused by flooding, excess liquid on the coil, unsuitable wattage or condensation.
Squonk Bottle
A soft bottle fitted inside a compatible squonk mod. Pressing the bottle feeds e-liquid upwards into a bottom-fed atomiser.
Squonk Mod
A vape mod containing an internal squeeze bottle that supplies e-liquid to a compatible bottom-fed RDA.
SSS Leak-Resistant Technology
A Vaporesso-branded pod and tank design intended to reduce leaking through its internal structure and seals.
It is a manufacturer term rather than a general industry standard.
Stainless Steel Wire
A coil material that may be used in wattage mode and, where supported, temperature-control mode.
Starter Kit
A vape kit designed to provide the main equipment needed by someone beginning to vape.
The phrase does not necessarily mean that e-liquid or a removable battery is included.
Steeping
Allowing e-liquid to rest so its ingredients and flavour profile can settle or mature.
Commercially manufactured liquids are normally supplied ready to use, although some flavours may change over time.
Stock Coil
A factory-made replaceable coil head rather than a user-built coil.
Sub-Ohm
A resistance below 1.0Ω.
Although the term was traditionally associated with high-powered DTL vaping, many modern low-powered MTL and RDL pods also use resistances below 1.0Ω.
Sub-Ohm Coil
A coil with a resistance below 1.0Ω.
Sub-Ohm Tank
A refillable vape tank designed primarily for lower-resistance coils, open airflow, higher power and DTL vaping.
Super Pulse
A manufacturer term used by OXVA for power-regulation technology in selected devices.
The exact operation depends on the model and should be described according to the product specification.
T
Tail-Piping
Using an atomiser without a fitted mouthpiece. This is not recommended because the exposed metal can become hot and may present a hygiene or safety risk.
Tank
A refillable e-liquid reservoir and atomiser designed to connect to a vape mod.
Temperature Control
A regulated mode that limits or manages coil temperature using compatible wire materials such as stainless steel, nickel or titanium.
Temperature Protection
A feature designed to prevent excessive heat or to stop the device operating beyond its permitted temperature range.
Throat Hit
The sensation felt in the throat during inhalation.
It can be affected by nicotine strength, nicotine type, PG content, power, airflow, flavour and individual sensitivity.
Titanium Wire
A temperature-control coil wire. It must only be used with a compatible device setting and suitable building knowledge.
Top Airflow
An airflow design in which air enters through openings near the top of the tank or pod.
Top-airflow systems may help reduce leakage through the base, although they are not guaranteed to be leak-proof.
Top Fill
A refill system accessed from the top of a pod or tank.
Top-Fill Pod
A refillable pod with a filling port near or beneath the mouthpiece, often allowing it to be filled without removing it from the device.
TPD
An abbreviation for Tobacco Products Directive.
TPD-Compliant
A common retail description for a vaping product that meets the applicable UK product requirements.
TRPR
An abbreviation for Tobacco and Related Products Regulations.
Type-C Charging
Another name for USB-C charging.
U
UNITECH
An OXVA-branded coil and pod technology used in selected products.
Different UNITECH generations may use different heating structures, mesh arrangements or wicking materials.
USB-C
A reversible charging and data connector used by most modern vape devices.
Charging speed depends on the device, cable and power source. A USB-C port does not automatically mean that every device supports the same charging rate.
User-Replaceable Battery
A battery designed to be removed and replaced by the user.
V
Vape
An electronic device that heats e-liquid to create an aerosol, commonly called vapour, for inhalation.
Vape Band
A rubber or silicone ring sometimes placed around a glass tank to provide limited impact protection.
Vape Juice
Another term for e-liquid.
Vape Kit
A packaged vaping device supplied with compatible components such as a pod, tank or coil.
Vape Mod
The powered section of a vape setup, particularly one designed to operate a separate tank or rebuildable atomiser.
Vape Pod
A removable e-liquid cartridge used in a pod system.
Vaper
An adult who uses a vape.
Vaping Products Duty
The UK excise duty due to begin on 1 October 2026 at a rate of £2.20 per 10ml of vaping liquid.
Vapour
The commonly used term for the visible aerosol produced when e-liquid is heated.
Variable Power
A feature allowing the user to adjust a device’s electrical output.
Variable Voltage
A feature allowing the user to adjust the voltage supplied to the coil.
Variable Wattage
A feature allowing the user to choose the power supplied to the coil in watts.
Vegetable Glycerine
A thick, slightly sweet e-liquid ingredient commonly abbreviated to VG.
VG contributes to vapour production and makes an e-liquid more viscous.
Venturi Airflow
An airflow design that uses a narrowed passage or shaped air channel to influence air speed, pressure and draw characteristics.
The term may also be used by manufacturers as a product-specific technology name.
VG
VG stands for vegetable glycerine.
VG/PG Ratio
The proportion of vegetable glycerine and propylene glycol in an e-liquid.
Voltage
The electrical potential supplied by a battery or device.
Voltage Sag
A temporary reduction in voltage when a battery is under load.
VW
VW stands for variable wattage.
W
Watt
The unit used to measure electrical power.
Wattage
The amount of power delivered to the coil.
Higher wattage generally creates more heat and vapour, but every coil should be used within its recommended power range.
Wattage Range
The power range recommended for a coil, pod or atomiser.
For example, a coil marked 15–20W is intended to operate between 15 and 20 watts.
Wick
The absorbent material that carries e-liquid to the heating coil.
Wicking
The movement of e-liquid through cotton, ceramic or another absorbent material towards the heating element.
Wicking Port
An opening that allows e-liquid to enter the coil’s wick.
Wire
The conductive resistance material used to form a traditional vape coil.
Wrap
One complete turn of wire around a coil-building tool.
The number of wraps affects the coil’s resistance and physical size.
Z
Zero Nicotine
An e-liquid or prefilled pod containing no intentionally added nicotine.
It may also be labelled 0mg.
Common Vape Problems Explained
Why Does My Vape Taste Burnt?
A burnt taste normally means that the wick is not receiving enough e-liquid or the coil has reached the end of its useful life.
Common causes include:
- Failing to prime a new coil
- Vaping above the recommended wattage
- Chain vaping
- Allowing the pod or tank to run too low
- Using an e-liquid that is too thick for the coil
- Continuing to use a worn coil
Replace the coil or pod if the burnt taste remains after checking the e-liquid level and power setting.
Why Is My Vape Gurgling?
Gurgling normally means excess e-liquid has entered the coil chamber or airflow system.
Possible causes include overfilling, drawing too forcefully, using wattage that is too low or leaving the pod unused for a long period.
Why Is My Pod Leaking?
Pods may leak because of damaged seals, incorrect filling, worn coils, temperature changes, unsuitable e-liquid or condensation.
Check that the filling plug is fully closed, avoid overfilling and keep the device upright where practical.
Why Does My Vape Say No Atomiser?
This means that the device cannot detect a complete electrical connection with the coil or pod.
Remove and reinstall the pod or tank, clean the contacts and check that the coil is correctly fitted. Replace the coil if the warning remains.
Why Does My Vape Say Short?
A “short” warning means the device has detected an electrical short circuit or an unusually low resistance.
Stop using the device until the coil, pod, tank and connections have been checked.
Why Is My Vape Not Firing?
Possible causes include:
- The battery is empty
- The device is switched off
- The pod or coil is not making contact
- The coil needs replacing
- The device is locked
- E-liquid or condensation is covering the contacts
- A safety protection has been triggered
Why Am I Getting E-Liquid in My Mouth?
Liquid in the mouthpiece is commonly caused by flooding, condensation, overfilling or drawing too sharply.
Remove the pod, wipe the mouthpiece and contacts, and check that liquid has not entered the central airflow passage.
Why Is My Coil Not Lasting?
Coil life may be reduced by:
- Very sweet e-liquids
- High power settings
- Chain vaping
- Poor priming
- Insufficient e-liquid
- Thick liquid in a small MTL coil
- Dark or heavily flavoured e-liquids
Our guide to how long vape coils last explains average lifespan and the main warning signs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Vaping Being Banned in the UK in 2026?
No. Vaping itself is not being banned for adults in the UK.
The sale and supply of single-use vapes were banned on 1 June 2025. The Tobacco and Vapes Act 2026 also creates new controls covering areas such as advertising, promotion, retailing, packaging, product presentation and flavours.
Different provisions are being introduced according to separate implementation dates.
What Is the Difference Between MTL, RDL and DTL?
MTL is a tight mouth-to-lung inhale similar to drawing on a cigarette.
RDL is a slightly airier restricted direct-to-lung inhale that provides more vapour than MTL.
DTL is an open direct-to-lung inhale normally used with lower-strength e-liquid, greater airflow and higher-powered hardware.
What Is the Difference Between Nic Salts and Freebase Nicotine?
Nic salts usually provide a smoother throat sensation at strengths such as 10mg and 20mg, making them popular in lower-powered pod kits.
Freebase nicotine can provide a more noticeable throat sensation and is available in both lower-strength and higher-strength e-liquids.
The best option depends on the device, preferred throat sensation and nicotine requirements.
What E-Liquid Should I Use in a Pod Kit?
Small MTL pod kits normally work well with 50VG/50PG nic salts or freebase e-liquids.
More powerful RDL pods may also support thicker liquids, depending on the coil and manufacturer’s recommendations.
Always check the pod resistance and suggested liquid type before filling it.
What E-Liquid Should I Use in a Sub-Ohm Kit?
Conventional high-powered sub-ohm tanks are generally designed for lower-strength, higher-VG e-liquids such as 70VG/30PG shortfills.
High-strength nic salts are normally unsuitable for high-powered DTL vaping.
Does a Lower Ohm Coil Always Produce More Vapour?
Not necessarily.
Resistance is only one factor. Vapour production also depends on the coil design, power, airflow, heating area, e-liquid and device programming.
A modern 0.8Ω mesh pod may behave very differently from an older 0.8Ω round-wire coil.
How Long Should I Prime a New Vape Coil?
After filling a new coil or pod, allow approximately 10–15 minutes for the wick to absorb the e-liquid.
Larger coils with more cotton may require additional time. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions where provided.
How Long Does a Vape Coil Last?
Many coils last between several days and two weeks, but there is no guaranteed lifespan.
Usage, e-liquid sweetness, wattage, airflow and priming all affect how quickly a coil deteriorates.
How Do I Know When to Replace My Coil?
Replace the coil or fixed-coil pod when you notice:
- A persistent burnt or stale taste
- Reduced flavour
- Weaker vapour
- Darkened e-liquid
- Repeated leaking or flooding
- A coil warning that cannot be resolved
Can I Refill a Prefilled Vape Pod?
Only refill a pod if the manufacturer specifically describes it as refillable.
Sealed prefilled pods should not be opened, modified or manually refilled.
Are Refillable Pod Kits Cheaper Than Prefilled Pods?
Refillable pod kits can provide a lower ongoing cost because the same pod or coil can be used with multiple fills from bottled e-liquid.
Actual cost depends on the device, coil life, e-liquid choice and individual usage.
What Does 20mg Nicotine Mean?
A 20mg e-liquid contains 20mg of nicotine per millilitre.
It may also be described as approximately 2% nicotine.
What Is the Maximum Legal Nicotine Strength in the UK?
Nicotine-containing vaping liquids intended for general consumer sale are limited to 20mg/ml under the applicable UK product regulations.
What Is the Maximum Vape Pod Capacity in the UK?
A nicotine-containing vape tank or pod placed on the UK consumer market is generally limited to a maximum capacity of 2ml.
Some compliant prefilled systems combine a 2ml pod with a separate refill container that automatically transfers liquid into the pod.
When Does the UK Vape Tax Begin?
Vaping Products Duty is due to begin on 1 October 2026.
The rate is £2.20 per 10ml of vaping liquid and applies regardless of nicotine content.
How Much Duty Will Apply to a 2ml Prefilled Pod?
At a rate of 22 pence per millilitre, the Vaping Products Duty attributable to 2ml of liquid is 44 pence.
The final retail-price effect may also be influenced by VAT, manufacturing, distribution and retailer pricing.
Will Vaping Products Duty Apply to Shortfills?
Yes. The duty applies to vaping liquid regardless of whether it contains nicotine, so nicotine-free shortfills fall within its scope from 1 October 2026.
Can I Charge My Vape Overnight?
It is better to disconnect a device once it is charged and avoid leaving batteries charging unattended.
Use a suitable cable and power source, keep the device away from flammable materials and follow the manufacturer’s charging instructions.
Should I Use an External Charger for Vape Batteries?
A suitable external charger is generally recommended for removable vape batteries, particularly paired cells used in multi-battery mods.
Inspect battery wraps regularly and do not use a cell that is damaged, dented or incorrectly wrapped.
What Is the Best Vape for a Beginner?
Many beginners choose a simple refillable or prefilled pod kit with automatic coil detection, draw activation and adjustable airflow.
The most suitable choice depends on whether the user wants to refill the pod, preferred nicotine strength, desired draw and ongoing running cost.
Are Puff Counts Exact?
No. Advertised puff counts are estimates based on particular testing conditions.
Longer inhalations, higher power and more open airflow can reduce the number of puffs obtained from a pod or device.
Is a Vape Completely Leak-Proof?
No refillable pod or tank can be guaranteed never to leak under every possible condition.
Good design can reduce leakage, but assembly, e-liquid, temperature, storage and coil condition also matter.
Is Sub-Ohm Vaping Only for DTL Devices?
No. Although traditional sub-ohm tanks are normally used for DTL vaping, many modern MTL and RDL pods have resistances below 1.0Ω.
The recommended power and intended vaping style are more useful than resistance alone.
Choosing the Right Type of Vape
Choose a Prefilled Pod Kit If:
- You want minimal filling and maintenance
- You prefer sealed flavoured pods
- You want a straightforward replacement for a single-use vape
- You do not want to handle bottled e-liquid
Browse our full range of prefilled pod kits to compare the latest rechargeable devices and compatible pod systems.
Choose a Refillable Pod Kit If:
- You want greater flavour and nicotine choice
- You want lower ongoing running costs
- You are comfortable filling a small pod
- You want to use bottled nic salts or freebase e-liquid
Browse our range of refillable pod kits.
Choose an RDL Pod Kit If:
- You want more vapour than a standard MTL kit
- You prefer a looser draw
- You still want something compact
- You use a compatible lower-strength e-liquid
Choose a Sub-Ohm Kit If:
- You prefer direct-to-lung vaping
- You want greater vapour production
- You use lower-strength, high-VG e-liquid
- You are comfortable adjusting power and replacing coils
Explore our range of sub-ohm vape kits.
Choose a Vape Mod and Tank If:
- You want greater control over wattage and airflow
- You prefer removable batteries or a larger internal battery
- You want to select the tank separately from the device
- You understand coil compatibility and suitable power settings
Browse vape mods and compatible vape tanks separately to build your preferred setup.
Choose a Rebuildable Atomiser If:
- You already understand Ohm’s law and battery safety
- You want to build and wick your own coils
- You have the correct tools and suitable regulated equipment
- You are confident checking resistance before use
Final Word
The vaping market continues to develop, but the basic principles remain the same: use a suitable e-liquid, stay within the coil’s recommended power range, keep the wick saturated and choose a vaping style that feels comfortable.
For adult smokers and existing vapers, understanding terms such as MTL, RDL, coil resistance, nicotine strength, VG/PG ratio and pod compatibility makes it much easier to choose suitable products and avoid common setup problems.
Keep this UK vape glossary bookmarked whenever you come across an unfamiliar vaping term, or explore our ranges of pod kits, replacement vape coils and e-liquids when you are ready to choose a compatible setup.
