Vape Tanks: Everything You Need to Know

Vaping has become a popular alternative to smoking, with millions of people around the world using electronic cigarettes to satisfy their nicotine cravings. Whether you’re a new vaper or an experienced enthusiast, understanding the different components of a vaping device is essential. One of the most important parts of any vape setup is the vape tank. It’s the component that holds your e-liquid and works with the coil to produce vapor. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about vape tanks, from their types to how to choose the best one for your vaping style.

Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!

A vape tank plays a pivotal role in your overall vaping experience. The size, material, design, and airflow of a tank can dramatically impact the flavor, cloud production, and overall satisfaction you get from each vape. As vaping technology has advanced, so too have the designs and capabilities of vape tanks, giving vapers more options than ever before. Choosing the right tank can make a huge difference, whether you prefer mouth-to-lung (MTL) vaping or direct-to-lung (DTL) vaping. In this guide, we will delve into the types of vape tanks available, how they work, and the factors to consider when choosing the perfect tank for your needs.

Types of Vape Tanks

1. Sub-Ohm Tanks

Sub-ohm tanks are designed for vapers who enjoy large vapor clouds and an intense flavor experience. The term “sub-ohm” refers to coils with a resistance of less than 1.0 ohms, which allows the tank to operate at higher wattages, producing more vapor. These tanks are typically used for direct-to-lung (DTL) vaping, where the vapor is inhaled directly into the lungs, rather than into the mouth first.

Features of Sub-Ohm Tanks

• Large Vapor Clouds: Designed for higher wattage and lower resistance, sub-ohm tanks produce bigger clouds of vapor.
• Enhanced Flavor: The ability to vaporize e-liquid at higher temperatures leads to a more intense and richer flavor.
• Large E-Liquid Capacity: Many sub-ohm tanks come with large capacity tanks to reduce the need for frequent refills.
• Adjustable Airflow: Allows you to control the airflow, giving you the ability to fine-tune the vapor production.

Popular examples of sub-ohm tanks include the SMOK TFV16 and GeekVape Zeus Tank.

2. Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) Tanks

MTL tanks are designed for vapers who prefer a draw that mimics the experience of smoking a traditional cigarette. These tanks use higher resistance coils, typically above 1.0 ohm, and are often used with lower wattage devices. MTL tanks are ideal for people who are new to vaping or those who want to use e-liquids with higher nicotine levels.

Features of MTL Tanks

• Tight Draw: MTL tanks provide a tighter, more restricted draw, similar to smoking a traditional cigarette.
• Higher Nicotine Strength: MTL tanks are better suited for higher nicotine e-liquids, such as nicotine salts.
• Lower Power Usage: They operate at lower wattages, which means they use less power and are more battery-efficient.
• Smaller Vapor Clouds: Because of the higher resistance and lower wattage, MTL tanks produce smaller vapor clouds.

Popular examples of MTL tanks include the Innokin Zenith Tank and Aspire Nautilus 2S.

3. Pod Systems

Pod systems are a type of vape tank commonly used in pod mod devices. These tanks are smaller and more portable than traditional tanks, making them ideal for discreet vaping. Pod systems often use refillable pods, but some systems feature pre-filled pods for convenience.

Features of Pod Systems

• Compact and Portable: Pod systems are small and lightweight, making them easy to carry around.
• Ease of Use: They are perfect for beginners due to their simple design and easy setup.
• Lower Vapor Production: Pod systems typically produce less vapor than sub-ohm tanks, making them ideal for MTL vaping.
• Refillable Pods: Many pod systems allow you to refill the pods with your choice of e-liquid, giving you more control over your vaping experience.

Popular pod systems include the JUUL and SMOK Nord.

4. RDA (Rebuildable Drip Atomizer)

RDA tanks are for experienced vapers who want to build their own coils and wicking material. These tanks don’t have a tank reservoir, but rather rely on a deck where you drip e-liquid directly onto the coil and wick. RDAs offer maximum customization, allowing for unique builds that suit personal preferences.

Features of RDAs

• Customizable Builds: You can choose your own coils and wicking material to create a personalized vaping experience.
• Increased Flavor: Because of their direct contact with the coil, RDAs can produce intense flavor.
• No Tank: RDAs don’t have a liquid reservoir, so e-liquid must be dripped onto the coil before each use.
• Larger Clouds: RDAs can produce massive vapor clouds when built correctly, making them a favorite for cloud chasers.

Popular RDAs include the Dead Rabbit RDA and Goon RDA.

5. RTA (Rebuildable Tank Atomizer)

RTAs combine the best of both worlds: they allow vapers to build their own coils like an RDA but also have a tank to hold e-liquid, like a traditional vape tank. This gives users the flexibility to create custom coils while also benefiting from a larger e-liquid capacity.

Features of RTAs

• Customizable Builds: Like RDAs, RTAs allow for custom coil builds.
• Large E-Liquid Capacity: Most RTAs come with a tank that can hold a significant amount of e-liquid, reducing the need for frequent refills.
• Intense Flavor and Vapor: With the right build, RTAs can provide excellent flavor and vapor production.
• Complex Setup: Setting up an RTA can be more challenging than using a traditional tank, so they are more suited for advanced vapers.

Popular RTAs include the Wotofo Profile RTA and Vandy Vape Kylin V2 RTA.

How to Choose the Right Vape Tank

When choosing the right vape tank, consider the following factors:

1. Vaping Style

• Mouth-to-lung (MTL) vapers should opt for tanks with higher resistance coils and a tighter draw.
• Direct-to-lung (DTL) vapers should go for sub-ohm tanks with lower resistance coils for larger vapor production.

2. E-Liquid Compatibility

Some tanks are better suited for high VG (vegetable glycerin) e-liquids, which are thicker and designed for cloud production, while others work better with higher PG (propylene glycol) e-liquids, which provide a stronger throat hit and are ideal for higher nicotine levels.

3. Ease of Use

Beginner vapers might prefer simpler tanks, like MTL tanks or pod systems, while experienced vapers may opt for RDAs or RTAs for more customization.

4. Capacity

If you vape frequently or want to avoid constant refills, choose a tank with a larger capacity. Sub-ohm tanks often offer larger capacities, while pod systems and MTL tanks usually have smaller tanks.

5. Build Quality

Look for a tank made from high-quality materials, such as stainless steel or glass, which ensure durability and a better vaping experience.

Conclusion

Vape tanks come in a variety of designs, each catering to different vaping preferences and styles. Whether you prefer the simplicity and convenience of a pod system, the cloud-chasing capabilities of a sub-ohm tank, or the customizability of an RDA or RTA, there’s a tank out there that will enhance your vaping experience. It’s important to consider your vaping habits, the type of e-liquid you prefer, and your level of experience when choosing a tank. By understanding the different types of tanks available, you’ll be able to select the one that best fits your needs and enjoy a satisfying vaping experience.

FAQs

1. What is the difference between MTL and DTL tanks?
MTL tanks provide a tighter draw, similar to smoking a cigarette, while DTL tanks allow for a direct-to-lung draw and produce larger vapor clouds.

2. Can I use any e-liquid with any vape tank?
No, some tanks are better suited for specific e-liquids. For example, sub-ohm tanks are ideal for high VG e-liquids, while MTL tanks are better for higher nicotine and PG-based e-liquids.

3. How often should I replace my vape tank?
You should replace your vape tank when it shows signs of wear or when the flavor or vapor production starts to decline. Typically, this could be after several months of regular use.

4. What is the best tank for beginners?
For beginners, a mouth-to-lung (MTL) tank or a pod system is ideal due to their simplicity, ease of use, and compatibility with higher nicotine levels.

5. Can I build my own coils for an RDA or RTA?
Yes, RDAs and RTAs are designed for vapers who enjoy building their own coils. This allows for a personalized vaping experience with custom builds for flavor and vapor production