What are Vape Coils
A vape coil is a wire coil typically wrapped around a wicking material, like cotton, that absorbs and retains e-liquid. When you press the fire button on your vape device, or take a puff with auto-inhale, the battery heats the coil, which then heats the e-liquid, turning it into vapour. The choice of coil material can dramatically influence the vaping experience, and there are several materials commonly used for coils. Kanthal is popular due to its affordability and durability. Stainless steel, nickel, and titanium are also common, and each material brings its own pros and cons.
Understanding the nuances of coil materials isn’t absolutely essential to get the most out of vaping, but it certainly equips vapers with the know-how to choose the right coil for their needs. We’ll discuss coil materials further below
How Do Vape Coils Work?
A vape coil works on the principle of Ohm's Law, where the voltage, current, and resistance all play a role in determining how hot the coil gets and how quickly it heats up. The resistance of a coil is measured in ohms and refers to how easily electricity can flow through the coil. Lower resistance (sub-ohm) coils tend to produce more vapour and flavour, ideal for DTL (direct-to-lung) vaping but require higher wattages and tend to drain batteries faster.
Higher resistance coils are more suitable for MTL (mouth-to-lung) vaping and are more energy-efficient. Wattage is the amount of power supplied to the coil and is crucial in determining the amount of vapour produced. Adjusting the wattage on your device allows you to find your sweet spot for the perfect vape. Many kits now feature Automatic Coil Detection which is a feature that detects the resistance of your coil (or integrated/fixed coil pod) and automatically sets the wattage for the most optimal flavour and vapour.
Understanding how vape coils work really helps you to get the best out of your vaping experience. Coils can vary widely in their resistance, material, and even shape, and understanding the differences can help you customize your vaping experience to your liking.
Choosing the Right Vape Coil
At Vapestore, we make it easy to choose the right coil for your device with little prior knowledge of all the variables that can make choosing coils a challenge for newer vapers. Use our handy COIL FINDER to match the perfect coil for your chosen vape kit, pod or tank.
Coil Resistance
Coil resistance is a key factor when selecting a vape coil, and it’s crucial to understand its implications on your vaping experience. As previously mentioned, the resistance of a coil is measured in ohms and determines how easily electricity flows through the coil.
Sub-ohm coils (with resistance less than 1ohm) are popular for DTL vaping and typically produce larger vapour clouds and more intense flavours. However, they require higher wattages and can quickly drain your battery. These coils are ideal for vapers who prioritize vapour production and flavour intensity.
Higher resistance coils (above 1ohm) are preferred for MTL vaping, which closely resembles the inhalation process of smoking a traditional cigarette. These coils use less power and provide a longer battery life, making them a great choice for vapers who value a more discreet and energy-efficient vaping experience.
Typical Vape Coil Resistances:
- 0.1 - 0.6ohms: Low resistance, suitable for Sub-Ohm, DTL (Direct-to-Lung) vaping with High-VG E-liquids and high-powered devices such as advanced vape kits and box mods.
- 0.6 - 1.0ohms: Medium resistance coils, suitable for RDTL (Restricted Direct-to-Lung) vaping and a slightly tighter DTL sensation, best with 50/50 and higher-VG e-liquids and more advanced pod kits.
- 1.0 – 1.4ohms: High-resistance coils, suitable for MTL vaping with high-PG, 50/50 and Nic Salts e-liquids and low-powered devices like starter vape kits and pod kits.
Compatibility
Not all vape coils are compatible with all vape devices. To ensure a safe and enjoyable vaping experience, it's important to choose a coil that matches your device's specifications. Pay attention to the recommended wattage range, coil resistance, and device compatibility stated by the manufacturer.
If your device features Automatic Coil Detection, it will automatically adjust the wattage based on the coil's resistance, ensuring optimal flavour and vapour production.
Vaping Style and Preferences
Your personal vaping preferences play a crucial role in selecting the right coil. If you prefer DTL vaping with large clouds and intense flavour, low-resistance sub-ohm coils are likely your best option. For a more discreet, cigarette-like experience, higher resistance coils are ideal for MTL vaping.
In addition to resistance and material, consider the coil's design and wicking material, as these factors can influence flavour and vapour production.
By understanding your vaping style and preferences, you can tailor your vaping experience to your liking and get the most out of your e-cigarette device and favourite e-liquids.
Coil Material
The material used for your vape coil can significantly impact your vaping experience. Kanthal is a widely-used material due to its affordability and durability. It's known for its ability to maintain shape even at high temperatures, making it a reliable choice for vapers of all experience levels.
Stainless steel is known for its fast ramp-up time, temperature control compatibility, and clean flavour profile. Nickel and titanium coils are primarily used in temperature control mode, if your device offers that feature, delivering a consistent vaping experience by regulating the coil's temperature.
When selecting a coil material, consider your vaping preferences, device compatibility, and any potential allergies you might have to specific metals.
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