Never Used a Refillable or Prefilled Pod Kit Before? Here's Your Complete Guide

November 27, 2025

Switching from disposables? Our expert 2025 guide explains pod kits simply—prefilled vs refillable, costs, flavour choice and what beginners should pick.

Never Used a Refillable or Prefilled Pod Kit Before? Here's Your Complete Guide

If you've relied solely on disposable vapes until now, pod kits can initially seem more complicated than they actually are. Charging, replacing pods, filling e-liquid, all of this feels like “extra steps” when disposables required none. But modern prefilled and refillable pod systems are purposely designed to replicate the simplicity of disposables, while giving you better performance, more value, and significantly less environmental waste.

Now that the June 2025 ban on disposable vapes is in full effect throughout the UK, pod kits are being picked up for the first time by thousands of vapers. Having helped countless customers make the transition here at VapeSuite, we can confidently say the most common reaction is the same: “That's it? I thought it would be harder.” Whether you choose prefilled pods that work almost exactly like disposables or refillable pods that offer maximum flavour freedom, today's pod systems are more user-friendly than ever.

Understanding the differences and choosing a type that best matches your style guarantees a smooth, seamless switch.

Overview of Key Takeaways

• They come in two main types of pod kits: prefilled pods, most similar to disposables, and refillable pods for maximum flavour options with long-term savings.
• Most of the pod kits do not require any settings, adjustments, or technical experience.
• Prefilled pod systems deliver familiar disposable-style convenience.
• Refillable pod kits offer a greater choice, lower long-term cost, and reduced waste.
• Battery performance far outshines that of disposables.
• Modern pod kits are designed for simplicity, consistency, and user-first experience.

Understanding Pod Kits: The Two Main Types

1. Prefilled Pod Kits - Disposable Vapes, Upgraded

Prefilled pod kits are the closest alternative to single-use disposables. Instead of replacing the entire device, you simply swap the small 2ml pod when it runs out. These pods contain e-liquid and a built-in coil, and they magnetically or securely connect to a rechargeable battery section.

Popular options include systems like SKE Crystal Plus, Elf Bar Elfa Pro, and Lost Mary pod kits. They deliver the same great flavours and smooth nicotine salts you're already used to, but with far better battery life and far less waste.

The main benefit is familiarity:

No buttons
No settings
No filling
Just attach a pod and vape

If you want the simplest, most effortless transition from disposables, prefilled pods are the ideal starting point.

2. Refillable Pod Kit - Maximum Flexibility & Lower Cost

Refillable Pod Kits involve a little more work than buying pre-made pods, but allow for greater flexibility. You can refill them yourself with nicotine salt e-liquid from a 10 ml bottle that come in very many flavours and nicotine strengths and let you manipulate your vaping experiences.

Popular Refillable systems include the Vaporesso XROS series, the Aspire Gotek, and the Uwell Caliburn, among many others that are suitable for beginners.

Filling a pod is simple:

Open the filling port
Squeeze in the e-liquid
Close the cap
Wait a few minutes for the coil to saturate

Most users find this becomes automatic within a day or two.

How Long Do Pods Last?

Prefilled Pods

Most prefilled pods provide 400-600 puffs, similar to standard disposables. The big difference is consistency, flavour and vapour stay stable from start to finish.

Refillable Pods

Refillable pods can typically be reused 3-5 times before the built-in coil expires. Some devices use replaceable coils instead, extending pod life even further.

Battery Life

Pod kit batteries are significantly more powerful than those in disposables. Most users enjoy 1-3 days per charge, and USB-C fast charging ensures quick turnaround.

How Pod Kits Differ From Disposables

Disposable vapes bundle everything, battery, coil, and e-liquid, into a single sealed unit. Pod kits separate these parts so only the pod or coil is replaced.

This comes with major advantages:

Better Battery Performance

Reusable batteries hold more power, last longer, and maintain consistent output.

More Consistent Flavour

Fresh pods or coils ensure cleaner flavour and fewer burnt or weak puffs.

Lower Long-Term Cost

You're no longer paying for a new battery every time. Prefilled pods and 10ml bottles are far more cost-effective.

Reduced Waste

You replace only the small pod or coil instead of throwing away a full device.

How Much Do Pod Kits Cost?

Basic prefilled pod kits: £8-£15
Advanced refillable pod kits: £15-£30

Where the real savings appear is in ongoing costs:

Prefilled pods are more affordable than disposable vapes.
10ml nic salts offer the best value, often replacing the equivalent of five disposables at a much lower price.

Recommended Pod Kits by Category

Best Entry-Level Prefilled Systems

High-Capacity Prefilled Options

•Lost Mary BM6000
•Avomi CLiQ

Best Refillable Pod Kits

Premium Pod Systems

•Lost Mary Nera30k
•Hula 7000
• High-puff, feature-rich prefilled systems

Nicotine Strengths: What Should You Choose?

Most UK disposables contained 20mg (2%) nicotine salt, so sticking to the same strength provides the smoothest transition. Many brands also offer 10mg options, perfect if you're looking to reduce nicotine gradually.

Refillable pod kits give you full control over this, simply choose the strength that matches your goals.

Common Concerns (And the Simple Truth)

Are pod kits complicated?

Not at all. Most are draw-activated and adjust power automatically.

What if I fill the pod incorrectly?

Filling is easy, and minor overfill just means wiping away excess liquid.

How do I know when to change the pod or coil?

Flavour drop, muted vapour, or a slightly burnt taste are your cues.

What about charging?

USB-C charging is standard. Most users charge once every 1-3 days.

Choosing Your First Pod Kit

Want the easiest switch?

Choose a prefilled pod kit like SKE Crystal Plus or Elf Bar Elfa Pro.

Want flavour freedom?

Go for a refillable kit like Vaporesso XROS or Aspire Gotek.

Heavy disposable user?

Explore high-capacity options (6000-8000+ puffs).

Want premium features?

Consider the Lost Mary Nera30k or a digital-display prefilled system.

Conclusion

Pod kits aren't a step backwards from disposables, they are the natural next evolution. They're cleaner, cheaper, more reliable, and far better for the environment. With prefilled systems offering near-identical ease of use and refillable kits delivering unmatched versatility, the switch is simpler than most people expect.

We provide a wide variety of both prefilled and refillable pod kits for every type of vaper here at VapeSuite. Whether you're making the switch for the very first time or if you don't know which device is best for you, we have an experienced team that will help lead you toward the right kit.

FAQs

What is the Elf Bar Elfa Pro pod kit?

The Elf Bar Elfa Pro is a beginner-friendly prefilled pod system offering classic Elf Bar flavours in a rechargeable format. It uses magnetic pods, delivers around 600 puffs per pod, and operates via simple draw activation.

Are pod kits cheaper than disposables?

Yes. While the initial cost is slightly higher, ongoing pod or e-liquid refills cost significantly less than buying disposable vapes. Most users save money within a few weeks.

What's the difference between refillable and prefilled pod kits?

Prefilled pods come ready to use and offer maximum convenience. Refillable pods let you add your own e-liquid, giving you more flavour options and long-term savings.

How long do prefilled pods last?

Most deliver around 400-600 puffs. Battery life averages 1-3 days per charge depending on the device.

Are refillable pod kits difficult to use?

Not at all. Filling a pod takes only a few seconds, and most users master it quickly. These devices are designed to be simple and beginner-friendly.

Can I use any e-liquid in a refillable pod kit?

For best results, choose 50/50 VG/PG nicotine salt e-liquids. High-VG (70%+) blends are usually too thick for pod systems.

0 comments For Never Used a Refillable or Prefilled Pod Kit Before? Here's Your Complete Guide

Comment “Never Used a Refillable or Prefilled Pod Kit Before? Here's Your Complete Guide”

Your Response *

Your Name *

Your Email *

Lost Mary 30K KIt: Fullview Sc

Explore the Lost Mary Nera range with a detailed r

From Mods to Disposables: The

Discover how vape technology has evolved from cust

Top Vape Juices for Pod Kits:

Discover the best vape juice for your pod kits wit

Best Disposable Vapes for Heav

Are you a heavy smoker looking for a satisfying va

Vape Care 101: Easy Maintenanc

Vape Care 101: Easy Maintenance Tips for Long-Last

The Evolving Landscape of Vapi

Vaping has developed decisively since its commence

Never Used a Refillable or Prefilled Pod Kit Before? Here's Your Complete Guide