Want to get into vaping but the aisle looks like an aeroplane cockpit? Box, pods, coils, ohms, watts... it's like a foreign language. Don't panic: starting to vape is much simpler than it seems, provided you begin with the right gear. We'll explain what to choose when you're starting out, without drowning you in jargon, so your first experience is a success and not discouraging. Spoiler: you don't need the most expensive gear.
Which electronic cigarette to start with?
When you're starting out, the watchword is simplicity. Forget the big complicated boxes with a thousand settings: that's not for you yet. To begin, two options stand out, simple and effective.
The pod is the beginner's ideal choice: compact, light, easy to use. You fill the tank, you inhale, that's it. No complicated settings, immediate handling. It's the perfect format for moving from tobacco to vaping without fuss. The other option, the all-in-one kit, combines a battery and a clearomiser designed to work together, usually with a few simple settings to develop a little.
The tip: start with a pod or a simple kit. You can always move on to more advanced gear later, once you master the basics. Starting too complicated is the best way to get discouraged.
Direct or indirect inhalation: which to choose?
This is a key point for a beginner coming from tobacco. There are two ways to vape. Indirect inhalation (called MTL, "mouth-to-lung") reproduces the cigarette gesture: you first draw the vapour into your mouth, then inhale it. It's the recommended mode to start, as it's familiar for a former smoker and provides a sensation close to the cigarette.
Direct inhalation (called DL, "direct-lung") consists of inhaling the vapour straight into the lungs, like a big breath. It produces much more vapour but is aimed more at experienced vapers. To get started right, stick with indirect inhalation.
Which nicotine level to choose at the start?
This is probably the most important setting for a successful transition. A level too low and you'll stay in withdrawal, which will push you back to the cigarette. A level too high and you'll have unpleasant sensations (throat stinging, dizziness). The right dose depends on your current tobacco consumption: the more you smoke, the higher the starting level should be.
The idea is to cover your nicotine need so you don't feel withdrawal, then gradually reduce the level over the weeks if you wish. Don't hesitate to ask for advice: a good starting dose makes all the difference between a successful transition and a return to the cigarette.
The beginner's basic gear
Here's what you really need to start, no more, no less.
| Item | What it's for |
|---|---|
| Pod or kit | The basic device |
| E-liquid | The liquid to vaporise |
| Spare coils | To replace regularly |
| Charger | To recharge the battery |
Beginner mistakes to avoid
A few classic traps. First mistake: choosing a nicotine level too low out of fear of nicotine, which leads straight to a tobacco relapse. Second mistake: forgetting to prime your new coil (letting it soak in liquid for a few minutes before first use), which gives an immediate burnt taste. Third mistake: wanting gear that's too complicated from the start. Avoid these three traps and your transition will go much better.
In short: starting well, simply
To start vaping with peace of mind: choose a pod or a simple kit, favour indirect inhalation close to the cigarette, and above all select a nicotine level suited to your consumption so you don't stay in withdrawal. Remember to prime your coils and don't be afraid to ask for advice. Vaping is only complicated if you make it complicated: with the right starting gear, your transition will be smooth and successful.