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

Prefilled pod kits use sealed pods containing both e-liquid and integrated coils, while refillable systems use empty pods that you fill with bottled e-liquid. Most refillable systems use pre-built pods with integrated coils, though some advanced systems feature replaceable coils. This affects convenience, cost, and customisation options significantly.

Are refillable pod kits more difficult to use than prefilled ones?

Refillable pod kits require basic maintenance like filling pods and replacing them when the integrated coil wears out (or just the coil in replaceable coil systems). These tasks are straightforward and become routine quickly. Most users master the process within a few uses, though prefilled systems remain simpler overall

Which type offers better long-term value for money?

Refillable pod kits typically offer better long-term value due to cheaper bottled e-liquid costs compared to prefilled pods. However, light users may find prefilled options more economical when factoring in convenience and simplicity benefits.

Can I travel easily with both types of pod kits?

Both travel well, but prefilled systems have advantages due to sealed pods and no separate e-liquid bottles. Refillable systems require carrying bottled e-liquid separately and careful attention to pod filling levels during air travel.

How long do pods typically last in each system?

Prefilled pods last until the e-liquid is consumed, typically 400-600 puffs per 2ml pod. Refillable pods with integrated coils can be refilled multiple times before needing replacement, usually lasting 1-2 weeks. Replaceable coil systems let you swap just the coil while keeping the same pod structure longer.

What e-liquids work best with refillable pod kits?

Most refillable pod kits work best with 50/50 VG/PG e-liquids or nicotine salts, which provide smooth throat hits and optimal wicking in pod systems. Higher VG e-liquids can work in some systems but may cause wicking issues in others, so check your kit's specifications first.

Prefilled Vape Pods

Refillable Vape Pods

Prefilled vs Refillable Vape Pods: Which Should You Choose?

September 12, 2025

If you're browsing pod kits and feeling overwhelmed by the choice between prefilled and refillable options, you're not alone. This single decision will shape your daily vaping routine, monthly budget, and overall satisfaction with your setup.

Choosing between prefilled and refillable pod systems is a common dilemma for UK vapers and too often feels more complicated than it needs to be. Both approaches, and both categories have evolved almost beyond recognition in recent years, and yet either type of vape kit can deliver excellent performance when matched to the right user.

The real question isn't really which type is "better" – it's which approach suits your vaping habits, lifestyle, and priorities. Some vapers thrive with the ultimate convenience of prefilled pods, while others prefer the flexibility and cost savings of refillable systems. Understanding these differences helps you make the right choice from our extensive pod kit and prefilled pod kit collections.

Key Takeaways

Prefilled pod systems offer maximum convenience with built-in coils and pre-loaded e-liquid – ideal for busy lifestyles
Refillable pod kits provide extensive flavour choice and better long-term value through bottled e-liquid use
Prefilled options work best for vapers who prefer consistent, hassle-free experiences with familiar flavours
Refillable systems suit those who enjoy customisation, want to explore different e-liquids, or vape regularly
Both types deliver excellent performance when matched to the right user preferences and vaping habits

Shop Vape Pods

2 for £10

Double Drip 10K Blue Razz Lemonade Prefilled Vape Pods + Refill

2ml + 10ml

Double Drip 10K Blue Razz Lemonade Prefilled Vape Pods + Refill

Blue Razz Lemonade flavour Double Drip 10K Prefilled Pod & Refill. Up to 10,000 puffs per replaceable 2ml pod with...

£5.99

4 x Pods Per Pack

Vaporesso Xros Series Corex 2.0 Version Replacement 2ml Pods - 4 Pods

DTL/RDL/MTL

Vaporesso Xros Series Corex 2.0 Version Replacement 2ml Pods - 4 Pods

Upgrade your vaping with Vaporesso XROS Series Corex 2.0 Mesh Pods, designed for enhanced flavour, vapour production, and longevity.

£7.99

2 for £10

Double Drip 10K Lemon & Lime Prefilled Vape Pods + Refill

2ml + 10ml

Double Drip 10K Lemon & Lime Prefilled Vape Pods + Refill

Lemon & Lime flavour Double Drip 10K Prefilled Pod & Refill. Up to 10,000 puffs per replaceable 2ml pod with...

£5.99

2 x Pods Per Pack

Elf Bar Elfa Refillable Pods 2ml - 2 Pods

MTL

Elf Bar Elfa Refillable Pods 2ml - 2 Pods

Refillable 2ml pods, 1.1ohm (MTL) coil, for use with the Elfa Pod kit – 2-pack

£4.49

3 for £12

Gold Bar Reload Blue Raspberry Prefilled Vape Pods - 20mg

2 x 2ml

Gold Bar Reload Blue Raspberry Prefilled Vape Pods - 20mg

Blue Raspberry flavour Gold Bar Reload Prefilled Pods 20mg x 2

£4.95

3 x Pods Per Pack

Oxva Xlim V3 Top Fill Replacement Pods - 3 Pack

MTL/RDL

Oxva Xlim V3 Top Fill Replacement Pods - 3 Pack

Replacement 2ml Top Fill Pod for the Oxva XLIM PRO Pod Kit x 3

£5.99

3 for £15

Hula 7000 Cherry Prefilled Vape Pod + Refill

2ml + 10ml

Hula 7000 Cherry Prefilled Vape Pod + Refill

Prefilled replacement 2ml pod + 10ml refill for the Hula Prefilled Pod Kit with dual mesh coil and auto-refill design.

£5.95

2 x Pods Per Pack

Aspire Gotek Replacement Pods - 2 Pack

MTL/RDL

Aspire Gotek Replacement Pods - 2 Pack

Replacement Fixed-Coil Pods 2ml for the Aspire Gotek X and Gotek Pro vape kit, Pack of Two

£3.49

3 for £12

Gold Bar Apollo Blue Raspberry Prefilled Pod & Refill 20mg

2ml + 5ml

Gold Bar Apollo Blue Raspberry Prefilled Pod & Refill 20mg

Gold Bar Apollo 20K Prefilled Pod & Refill – Blue Raspberry, 5ml E-Liquid Pod + 2ml Refill Tank, 20mg Nic...

£4.95

3 x Pods Per Pack

VooPoo Argus V2 Replacement Pods 2ml

MTL/DTL

VooPoo Argus V2 Replacement Pods 2ml

A 3-pack of refillable 2ml top-fill pods for the Voopoo Argus G3, available in 0.4ohm, 0.7ohm and 1.0ohm resistances to...

£6.99

3 for £12

Lost Mary BM600 Blueberry Sour Raspberry Prefilled Vape Pods 20mg - 2PK

2 x 2ml

Lost Mary BM600 Blueberry Sour Raspberry Prefilled Vape Pods 20mg - 2PK

Lost Mary BM600 Blueberry Sour Raspberry Prefilled Pods. Two-pack of 2ml prefilled pods for the BM600 Prefilled Pod Kit, each...

£4.95

2 x Pods Per Pack

Innokin Coolfire P60 Replacement Pods 2ml

DTL/RDL/MTL

Innokin Coolfire P60 Replacement Pods 2ml

Refillable 2ml pods with built-in mesh coils for MTL, RDL and DTL vaping with the Innokin Coolfire P60 Pod Kit.

£4.99

4 for £10

SKE Bar Banana Ice Prefilled Vape Pod

600 Puffs

SKE Bar Banana Ice Prefilled Vape Pod

Banana Ice flavour SKE Bar Prefilled Pod (1-pack). Up to 600 puffs per replaceable 2ml pod. 20mg

£2.99

2 for £10

Avomi CLIQ Prefilled Vape Pod + Refill - Spearmint

2ml + 10ml

Avomi CLIQ Prefilled Vape Pod + Refill - Spearmint

A fresh, smooth and sweet Spearmint flavour. Includes 2ml mesh coil pod + 10ml auto-refilling e-liquid container, Nicotine Salt 20mg....

£5.95

3 x Pods Per Pack

Geekvape Q Replacement Pods - 3 Pack

MTL/RDL

Geekvape Q Replacement Pods - 3 Pack

Geek Vape Q Replacement 2ml Pods, Fixed x 3

£5.99

Understanding Pod Systems

Most vapers know the basics: pod systems are compact, user-friendly, and work brilliantly with nicotine salts. What matters for your choice is understanding how the two approaches handle e-liquid differently.

Pod vape kits share the same core design principles: 2ml capacity to meet UK regulations, draw-activated operation (no button pressing), built-in rechargeable batteries, and optimisation for mouth-to-lung (MTL) vaping. Most feature USB-C charging and work best with 50/50 or nicotine salt e-liquids.

The split is simple: prefilled pods arrive sealed with e-liquid and integrated coils already inside, while refillable pods are empty containers you fill yourself and maintain with replaceable coils. This fundamental difference shapes everything from your morning routine to your monthly vaping budget.

Neither approach compromises on performance quality – both can deliver excellent flavour and satisfaction when matched to the right user.

2 for £15 - Ends 1st Feb

Double Drip 10k Prefilled Pod Vape Kit

10k Puffs

Double Drip 10k Prefilled Pod Vape Kit

Rechargeable Prefilled Pod Kit with 2ml Pod + 10ml refill, mesh coil technology, 3 x Boost Mode. Up to 10,000...

£9.95

2 for £10

Avomi CLIQ Prefilled Vape Pod + Refill - Kiwi Passionfruit Guava

2ml + 10ml

Avomi CLIQ Prefilled Vape Pod + Refill - Kiwi Passionfruit Guava

A tropical trio of tangy Kiwi, bold Passionfruit, and sweet Guava for a sweet and sunny vape. Includes 2ml mesh...

£5.95

2ml Pod Included

SKE BAR Prefilled Pod Vape Kits

600 Puffs

SKE BAR Prefilled Pod Vape Kits

SKE BAR Prefilled Pod Kit with all-in-one replaceable pod system, 500mAh battery, USB-C Fast Charging, Inhale Activation, 20mg Nic Salt...

£3.95

2 for £10

Double Drip 10K Pineapple Ice Prefilled Vape Pods + Refill

2ml + 10ml

Double Drip 10K Pineapple Ice Prefilled Vape Pods + Refill

Pineapple Ice flavour Double Drip 10K Prefilled Pod & Refill. Up to 10,000 puffs per replaceable 2ml pod with 10ml...

£5.99

2ml Pod Included

Lost Mary BM600 Prefilled Pod Vape Kit

600 Puffs

Lost Mary BM600 Prefilled Pod Vape Kit

Lost Mary BM600 Rechargeable Prefilled Pod Kit. 2ml prefilled pod with 20mg Nic Salt e-liquid. Up to 600 puffs per...

£4.95

2 for £12

ELFBAR AF5500 Cherry Ice Prefilled Pod + Refill

2ml + 10ml

ELFBAR AF5500 Cherry Ice Prefilled Pod + Refill

Cherry Ice Elf Bar AF5500 Refill Pod with 2ml pod + 10ml refill. Up to 5500 puffs. 20mg Nic Salt....

£6.99

2ml + 10ml Pod Included

Blue-Razz Lemonade Elf Bar AF5500 Prefilled kit

ELFBAR AF5500 Prefilled Pod Vape Kit

5500 Puffs

ELFBAR AF5500 Prefilled Pod Vape Kit

Rechargeable Prefilled Pod Kit with 2ml pod + 10ml refill, mesh coil design, USB-C charging and up to 5500 puffs....

£8.95

3 for £12

Lost Mary BM600 Mango Prefilled Vape Pods 20mg - 2PK

2 x 2ml

Lost Mary BM600 Mango Prefilled Vape Pods 20mg - 2PK

Lost Mary BM600 Triple Mango Prefilled Pods. Two-pack of 2ml prefilled pods for the BM600 Prefilled Pod Kit, each delivering...

£4.95

2ml + 10ml Pod Included

Avomi CLIQ Prefilled Pod Vape Kit

6000 Puffs

Avomi CLIQ Prefilled Pod Vape Kit

Choose from 10 Avomi Cliq Prefilled Pod Kits. with digital display, soft-touch metallic finish, mesh coil technology, and 2ml pod...

£9.95

2ml + 10ml Pod Included

IVG Pro 12 Prefilled Pod Vape Kit

10k Puffs

IVG Pro 12 Prefilled Pod Vape Kit

Pocket-friendly Prefilled Pod Kit with 1000mAh battery, Boost Mode, and USB-C charging. Uses prefilled pod and refill system. 15 Flavours...

£8.95

4 for £10

SKE Bar Lemon Peach Passionfruit Prefilled Vape Pod

600 Puffs

SKE Bar Lemon Peach Passionfruit Prefilled Vape Pod

Lemon Peach Passion Fruit flavour SKE Bar Prefilled Pod (1-pack). Up to 600 puffs per replaceable 2ml pod. 20mg

£2.99

2 for £15

IVG Pro 12 Fizzy Cherry Prefilled Vape Pod + Refill

2ml + 10ml

IVG Pro 12 Fizzy Cherry Prefilled Vape Pod + Refill

Sweet Cherry with a fizzy twist. Prefilled pod and refill system for up to 10,000 puffs.

£7.99

Understanding Prefilled Pod Kits

Prefilled pod kits work on the principle that simpler is often better. Each pod contains both e-liquid and coil, sealed and ready to use. When the e-liquid runs out or flavour starts to fade, you swap the entire pod for a fresh one.

Advantages of Prefilled Systems

No measuring. No mess. No waiting for coils to prime. This makes prefilled systems perfect for vapers who want reliable performance without any fiddling about – busy professionals, frequent travellers, or anyone who values their time over tinkering.

Each pod performs identically from first puff to last. The sealed design eliminates leaks, while factory-matched coils and e-liquid ensure optimal flavour every time. You know exactly what to expect.

Modern prefilled systems often extend usage between pod changes through clever design. Some kits include multiple pods, others use refill pods that automatically top up the active pod (the one that contains the coil element.) These innovations can deliver 3,000-6,000 puffs per setup – far more than basic single-pod designs. It’s no wonder such devices have started to be informally dubbed ‘Big Puff Vapes’.

Limitations to Consider

You're limited to whatever flavours the manufacturer offers. Most leading brands provide 15-20 options covering popular profiles, but adventurous vapers might find this restrictive compared to the thousands of bottled e-liquids available.

Cost per millilitre runs higher than refillable alternatives. For light users, this premium might be acceptable for the convenience. Heavy vapers will feel the difference in their wallet fairly quickly.

Best Use Cases

Prefilled systems excel for new vapers seeking the simplest introduction, busy professionals who want zero-maintenance reliability, and anyone who travels frequently. They're also excellent as backup devices or for social situations where you want something foolproof.

Recommended Prefilled Pod Kits:

Elf Bar AF5500 Prefilled Pod: 1000mAh rechargeable system with auto-refill design delivering 5500 puffs. Features 1.2ohm mesh coil and draw-activated operation. Includes 2ml pod with 10ml refill reservoir in popular Elf Bar flavours.
Lost Mary BM600 Prefilled Pod Vape Kit : Rechargeable version of the iconic BM600 with compact matchbox design and colourful styling. Delivers 600 puffs per 2ml pod with 20mg nic salt. Features inhale activation and USB-C charging.
IVG Pro 12 Prefilled Pod Vape Kit: High-capacity system delivering up to 12,000 puffs with 2ml pod and 10ml refill reservoir. Features 1000mAh battery, TFT display, mesh coils, and Boost Mode across 15 bold flavours.
Avomi Cliq Prefilled Pod Kit: Auto-refill system with 2ml pod and 10ml container delivers 6000 puffs. Features dual mesh coils, digital display, Turbo Mode, and metallic finish. Bundle includes kit plus two replacement pod+refill packs.
Double Drip 10K Prefilled Pod Kit: 1100mAh battery with auto-refill system providing 10,000 puffs per setup. Features Boost Mode, mesh coils, LED display showing puff count and battery life. Sleek metallic design with USB-C charging.
SKE Crystal Pro 600 Kit: Compact rechargeable system with 400mAh battery and distinctive colourful crystal design. Each 2ml pod delivers 600 puffs with 20mg nic salt. Simple inhale-activated operation with iconic SKE Crystal flavours.

Refillable Pod Vape Kits Explained

Refillable pod kits let you choose your own e-liquid while handling the coil situation in two different ways. Most use pre-built pods with integrated coils – you fill them yourself but replace the entire pod when the coil wears out. More advanced systems tend to offer replaceable coil pods where you can swap just the coil while keeping the same pod component.

Both approaches unlock significant customisation potential and running cost savings compared to prefilled systems, though pre-built refillable pods remain the more popular choice for their simplicity.

Advantages of Refillable Systems

Access to thousands of e-liquid options changes everything. Different brands, flavour profiles, VG/PG ratios, and nicotine strengths become available. You can fine-tune your experience or simply enjoy variety in your daily rotation.

The economics become compelling quickly. A 10ml bottle of nicotine salt e-liquid typically provides equivalent usage to five prefilled pods at roughly half the total cost. With pre-built refillable pods, you'll get multiple fills before needing replacement. For regular vapers, this adds up fast.

True customisation extends beyond flavour choice. Adjust nicotine strength incrementally, mix different e-liquids for custom blends, or – with replaceable coil systems – switch coil resistances to modify vapour production and flavour intensity.

Learning Curve Considerations

Refillable systems require basic maintenance: filling pods without overfilling, priming new coils properly, and recognising when coil replacement is needed. These tasks become routine within days, but they do add steps compared to prefilled alternatives.

Most refillable pods work best with 50/50 e-liquids or nicotine salts. Higher VG ratios work in some systems but require careful selection to avoid wicking issues.

Long-term Benefits

Regular users often find refillable systems more rewarding due to variety and customisation options. Stock up during sales, try new releases immediately, and build a collection of favourite flavours. Environmental impact is also notably reduced through reusable pod structures.

Featured Refillable Pod Kits:

Oxva Xlim Go Pod Vape Kit: Compact 1000mAh device with 30W output and adjustable airflow for MTL/RDL vaping. Fixed-coil pods available in multiple resistances (0.4-1.2ohm). Side-fill design with premium materials and portable form factor.
VooPoo Argus Matrix Pod Vape Kit: Cutting-edge, futuristic design with 1350mAh battery, 30W output, and curved full-view screen. Features Smart Mode, dynamic lighting effects, and includes 0.4ohm/0.7ohm mesh coil pods for MTL/RDL vaping.
Lost Vape Ursa Cap Pro Pod Vape Kit: Premium device with 1200mAh battery, 5-35W output, and monochrome display. Features Smart Mode, precision airflow slider, built-in dust cap, and compatibility with full Ursa pod range.
Elf Bar ElfX Ultra Pod Kit: Advanced device with 2.4" touchscreen, 1500mAh battery, and 5-45W output. Features Smart Insights app connectivity, dual power modes, adjustable airflow, and compatibility with mesh coil pods.
Vaporesso Xros 5 Pod Vape Kit: Premium aluminium device with 1500mAh battery, 0.88" HD screen, and three output modes. Features COREX 2.0 heating technology, adjustable airflow slider, and includes 0.6ohm/0.8ohm mesh pods.
Freemax Rexa S Pod Vape Kit: Sleek device with hidden HD display, 1300mAh battery, and 30W adjustable output. Features Duomax mesh coil technology with tea fibre cotton and slide-to-fill design for MTL/RDL vaping.

Refillable vs Prefilled Pod Kits: Making Your Choice

Convenience: Prefilled systems win decisively – no filling, priming, or maintenance required. Refillable systems need more involvement but reward users with greater control over their experience.
Cost: Light users might find prefilled options economical when factoring in convenience. Heavy vapers see substantial savings with refillable systems – often halving monthly vaping expenses through cheaper e-liquid costs.
Flavour Choice: Refillable systems offer unlimited options through bottled e-liquids, plus custom blending and adjustable nicotine strength. Prefilled options restrict you to manufacturer selections (typically 15-25 flavours per brand).
Performance: Both deliver excellent results when used correctly. Prefilled pods guarantee optimal coil-to-e-liquid pairing, while refillable systems allow experimentation with different setups.

Quick Decision Guide

Choose prefilled: if you value maximum convenience, prefer predictable experiences, travel frequently, or are satisfied with manufacturer flavour ranges.
Choose refillable: if you enjoy exploring different e-liquids, want the best long-term value, like customising your setup, or vape regularly enough to justify the flexibility.
Many experienced vapers use both: prefilled for travel and social situations, refillable for daily home use.

Conclusion

Whether you're asking yourself 'which pod kit should I choose' for the first time or looking to upgrade, both prefilled and refillable pod systems represent mature technologies that excel in their intended applications. Your choice should align with your actual vaping habits and lifestyle requirements rather than following general recommendations.

The pod market continues evolving, with manufacturers refining both approaches to better serve different user needs. Whether you prioritise convenience or customisation, there's never been a better selection of quality pod systems available.

Explore our complete range of prefilled pod kits and refillable pod systems to find your perfect match. Our Customer Services Team is always available to help you choose the right pod kit for your specific needs and answer any questions you may have.

Shop Vape Pods

Prefilled vs Refillable Vape Pods: Which Should You Choose?

Key Takeaways

Understanding Pod Systems