Electronic cigarettes have become a popular alternative to smoking, but when considering making the switch, many people find that choosing the right type of e-cig can be difficult. There are three different types of e-cigarettes to choose from; the cartridge system, the cartomizer system and the E-liquid refill system. Familiarizing yourself with each type can help in knowing which e-cig would be best to fit your needs.

The Cartridge System

Cartridge e-cigarettes contain three pieces; a pre-filled cartridge, an atomizer and a battery. The unit is assembled by inserting the cartridge into the atomizer and screwing it onto the battery. As the battery heats up the atomizer, using a wicking action, it heats up the liquid in the cartridge, turning it into a vapor that is inhaled. Cartridge systems offer ease of use, making them convenient to use while driving or when away from home. They also do not require the need to fill cartridges, eliminating the sometimes-messy job of filling your own cartridges.

E-liquid Systems

E-liquid electronic cigarettes are similar to the cartridge system although they do not come with prefilled cartridges. Instead, their cartridges are blank and require filling. Although this does take more time than using a prefilled cartridge, filling them yourself allows the choice of a wide variety of different flavors and strengths. They are also more affordable than prefilled cartridges. Refill cartridges hold about 5 to 8 drops. Once the liquid is used in the cartridge, it will stop producing vapor. The cartridge will then need to be refilled. This does takes a little time and patience. With the use of a syringe, the cartridge can be refilled making it the least messy way to refill cartridges. Cartridges will need replacing on occasion, as they eventually wear out.

The Cartomizer System

Cartomizers contain two pieces, an atomizer and a cartridge that are combined into a single unit and attached to a battery. The cartomizer is constructed entirely different than cartridge systems. Unlike atomizers that have their heating element on the end of the atomizer and the liquid in the cartridge, a cartomizer has a heating element that goes inside the center of the cartomizer, allowing the entire center of the cartomizer to heat for providing better vaporization. They are refillable and are faster to fill than blank cartridges. Cartomizers can hold about 25 to 30 drops of e-liquid, equivalent to about a half of pack of cigarettes. They do not, however last as long as cartridges. For those who like to change flavors often, additional cartomizers will also be needed.