How Long Does A Reusable Vape Last?
Wondering how long a reusable vape lasts before you need to replace it? With the UK ban on disposables, more vapers are switching to refillable pod kits, vape pens, and sub-ohm devices. and asking the same question.
The truth: a well-maintained reusable vape can last anywhere from six months to over two years, depending on the type you choose, how often you vape, and how well you look after it.
In this guide, we’ll break down the average lifespan of pods, coils, tanks and batteries, plus share easy tips to make your vape kit last longer.
TL;DR: How long will my reusable vape last?
The average vape kit lasts from six months to over two years - depending on the type you choose, its build quality, and whether you follow maintenance best practices. However, in most cases, a refillable device may have a slightly longer lifespan than a pre-filled pod system, due to the open system design.
What are reusable vapes?
A reusable vape kit is a device that isn't disposable. Instead of throwing it away once the battery life is empty, you recharge it and either refill or place another pod into place - depending on the kit you use. The most popular types of reusable vape systems include:

Pod kits
Pod kits are probably the most popular form of reusable vape device, as they mirror the convenience of disposable vapes, and don't require messy coil changes. There are two types of pod kits available:
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Pre-Filled: A pre-filled pod kit comes with cartridges already filled with vape juice. You just snap a new pod into place once it's empty.
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Refillable Vapes: A Refillable vape pod has the same design, but you'll fill the pods with e-liquid. These kits are ideal if you prefer flexibility, as you can sample more flavours.
Vape pens
Another popular option are vape pens. These are a bit more robust and larger than pod devices, but they are still easy and convenient enough to carry around with you. Most come with clearomisers or are traditional tank and coil systems.
Entry-level pens are the most affordable option, but you can find more advanced vape pens with customisation options.
Sub-ohm devices
The majority of vape devices are designed for mouth-to-lung vapers, and they replicate the smoking experience. However, some advanced vapers prefer the direct-to-lung vaping style, as it produces larger vape clouds.
Choosing a sub-ohm device lets you enjoy DTL vaping, but these kits are usually more expensive and have advanced customisation options.
What's the average lifespan of a reusable vape kit?
The average lifespan of your vape kit depends on numerous factors, including the manufacturer, components, and maintenance. It's also important to remember that the overall lifespan includes the device itself and how long each component lasts.
Let's take a look at the average lifespan of each component.
Average battery life
The battery is one of your vape kit's most important components as it powers the entire device. Most modern kits use a lithium-ion battery.
Kits with large battery capacities last longer between charges, but the average lithium-ion battery lasts between 300 and 500 charge cycles. However, your vaping frequency determines the battery's lifespan, depending on how often you charge it.
For example, heavy vapers might charge their vape at least once daily, while light vapers may only need to charge it twice a week.
|
Vaping Frequency |
Average Battery Lifespan |
|
Heavy Vaping - Daily Charging |
10.5 months to 1.5 years |
|
Moderate Vaping - Charging Every Other Day |
1.5 to 2.5 years |
|
Light Vaping - Charging Twice a Week |
2.5 to 4+ years |
Vape coil longevity
The vape coil is a heating element that turns vape juice into a vapour. It frequently comes into contact with heat and liquid, which means the coil has a shorter lifespan. Again, how long your coil lasts depends on the amount you vape.
For example, the average lifespan is between one and three weeks, but heavy vapers may need to change the coil or pod after five days.
When a coil reaches the end of its lifecycle, you'll notice that the vape kit produces less vapour, makes gurgling noises, and might produce a burnt taste.
Vape pod and tank lifespan
If you use a pre-filled pod kit, its lifespan depends on how often you vape. For example, small pods with 2ml of vape juice might only last for one to two days, while very light vapers can typically make a pod last for a week.
Refillable pod vapes last longer, as you fill them with e-liquid and can use them until the coil wears out. But, as a fixed coil pod is an all-in-one system, you may need to change it within a week or two.
A traditional tank system is the longest-lasting option, as you change the coils regularly and can fill the tank with vape juice. In many cases, tanks can last months and even years - but they'll eventually start to wear.
If you drop the tank regularly or the seals start to degrade, it's vital to replace the tank.
How long does the entire device last?
An entire device's lifespan can range from six months to over three years. Again, it depends on the manufacturer, design quality, and materials.
Higher-end vapes may have longer lifespans, as they feature premium components, but plenty of budget models combine affordability with longevity.
The average lifespan for each type of reusable vape is:
|
Reusable Vape Type |
Average Lifespan |
|
Pod Kits (Both Refillable and Prefilled Pod Systems) |
Six months to over a year |
|
Vape Pens |
A year to 18 months |
|
Sub-Ohm/Mod Devices |
One to three years |
How to make a vape kit last longer
Whether you're using a pre-filled or refillable vape kit, there are things you can do to prolong its lifespan and save money. Once you understand what can impact your vape kit's longevity, it's easy to take steps to prevent it.
Avoid chain vaping
If you find yourself chain vaping frequently, the vape will often overheat and lead to the battery wearing out faster. Moderating your vaping and taking regular breaks gives the battery time to cool down.
You may find that choosing larger rechargeable vaping devices suits your needs better, as the batteries are equipped to handle heavy vaping.
Practice proper maintenance
All vape kits require some basic maintenance to ensure they continue to work. You should regularly clean the vape kit, using a cloth to remove dust and keep the internal components free of debris.
If you use refillable vapes with tanks, you should clean the tank regularly with water - but never get the battery or electrical components wet.
Use the right e-liquids
Some vape kits and coils are designed for different vaping types, and the e-liquids you use make a difference to the device's lifespan. For example, traditional pod kits and vape pens are usually for MTL vapers, so they're best suited to 50/50 or high PG vape juices.
Mod kits and sub-ohm devices are for sub-ohm vapers, and work best with high VG vape juice. Using the wrong e-liquids can cause the coil to overheat, increasing the risks of leaks.
Replace parts when needed
While pushing your device to its limits before replacing the components can be tempting, you might end up needing to replace the entire kit. For example, if you're using a pre-filled pod vape, you should replace the pods every 600 puffs on average, while coils may require changing every one to three weeks.
If the device has a removable battery, you can replace it instead of buying a new kit. Mod kits and advanced vape pens often let you replace the tank, making it easier to save money.
When is it time to replace a reusable vape kit?
No vape device will last forever, and there will be a time when you need to replace the kit. If you notice any of the following, it's probably time to get a new vape system:
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Your battery either fails to charge fully or cannot hold its charge
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The device frequently experiences leaks
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There are cracks or damage to the device
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You notice a burnt taste even after replacing the coil
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The settings or parts no longer work correctly
The bottom line
Vape kits can last anywhere from six months to over two years, depending on build quality and maintenance. Choosing a device from a reputable provider and following the tips in this post can help you get the most out of your vaping experience.
88Vape has a variety of reusable devices to choose from, including refillable pod kits and vape pens, sub-ohm devices, and pre-filled pods. With free UK delivery on orders over £15 and low prices across all of our products, we aim to make your transition seamless.
Please contact us today if you have questions or need advice.