Pod Kit
Refillable Vape Kits

Never Used a Refillable or Prefilled Pod Kit? Here's What You Need to Know

August 11, 2025

If you've only ever used disposable vapes, the world of pod kits might seem unnecessarily complicated. Why mess with charging, refilling, or replacing parts when disposables were so simple? The truth is that modern pod vape kits are designed to be just as straightforward as disposables while offering significant advantages in cost, performance, and environmental impact. 

With the June 2025 disposable ban now in effect, many vapers are discovering pod vape kits for the first time. We've been helping customers navigate this transition for months, and the most common reaction we hear is surprise at how simple and accessible these devices actually are. Whether you're looking at refillable pod kits where you add your own e-liquid, or prefilled pod systems that work almost exactly like disposables, the learning curve is much gentler – and more fun - than you might expect. 

The key is understanding the different types available and knowing which suits your preferences. Some pod kits are barely more complex than the disposables you're used to, while others offer more customisation for those who want to explore different e-liquids and settings. 

Key Takeaways 

  • Pod kits come in two main types: prefilled (similar to disposables) and refillable (more flexible) 
  • Most pod kits are draw-activated and require no technical knowledge to operate 
  • Prefilled pod systems offer the closest experience to disposable vapes 
  • Refillable pod kits provide maximum flexibility and cost savings 
  • Battery life is substantially better than single-use disposables 
  • Modern pod kits are designed for simplicity and ease of use 

Reduced - ends 31st Dec

Elf Bar 600 Prefilled Pod Vape Kits
Elf Bar 600 Prefilled Pod Vape Kits

Kit + 1 x E-Liquid

Aspire Gotek Pro Pod Vape Kit
Aspire Gotek Pro Pod Vape Kit

2ml + 10ml Pod Included

Gold Bar XL Prefilled Pod Vape Kit
Gold Bar XL Prefilled Pod Vape Kit

Kit + Extra Pod Included

IVG  Air 4-in-1 Prefilled Pod Vape Kit
IVG Air 4-in-1 Prefilled Pod Vape Kit

Kit + 3 x E-Liquids

Vaporesso Xros 5 Pod Vape Kit
Vaporesso Xros 5 Pod Vape Kit

Reduced - ends 31st Dec

Hula 7000 Prefilled Pod Vape Kits
Hula 7000 Prefilled Pod Vape Kits

Understanding the Two Types of Pod Kits  

Prefilled Pod Kits: Disposable Vapes, Evolved 

Prefilled pod kits are the closest thing to single-use disposables you'll find. And while inspired by those devices, these systems are anything but ‘single-use’. They typically use prefilled pods (2ml, the TPD standard) that contain e-liquid and a built-in coil, and attach to a separate battery component; much like a disposable vape split into two parts. When the pod runs empty, you simply replace it with a fresh one.


Popular prefilled pod systems include the SKE Crystal Plus, and Elf Bar Elfa Pro. These devices typically offer the same flavours you enjoyed in disposable form, with identical nicotine strengths and similar puff counts per pod. 


The main advantage is familiarity - you get the same ease of use as disposables but with a rechargeable battery and reduced waste. There's no learning curve beyond remembering to charge the device occasionally. 

Refillable Pod Kits: Maximum Flexibility 

Refillable pod kits feature empty refillable pods that you top up yourself with bottled e-liquid. While this adds one extra step compared to prefilled systems, it opens up enormous flexibility in flavour choice and nicotine strength. 


Excellent refillable options include the Vaporesso Dojo Blast, Aspire Gotek, and Elf Bar ElfX Mini. These systems let you choose from thousands of e-liquid flavours rather than being limited to pre-made options. 


The process is straightforward: remove the pod's filling cap, squeeze in e-liquid until full, replace the cap, and wait a few minutes for the coil to saturate. Most users find this becomes second nature within days. 

How Long Do Pre-filled Pods Last?

Most prefilled pods deliver 400-600 puffs, similar to the disposables you're familiar with. However, the experience remains consistent throughout the pod's life rather than declining toward the end like disposables often did. 

Refillable pods last longer in terms of reuse - most can be refilled 3-5 times before the coil needs replacing. Some advanced systems feature replaceable coils that can extend pod life even further. 

Battery life is substantially better than disposables. Most pod kits provide 1-3 days of typical use per charge, and fast charging means you're never waiting long to get back to vaping.

What Makes Pod Kits Different from Disposables 

The fundamental difference lies in the separation of components. Disposables combined everything - battery, e-liquid, and coil - into one sealed unit. Pod kits separate the battery (device) from the e-liquid container (pod), allowing you to reuse the expensive electronic components while only replacing the consumable parts. 

This separation brings several advantages: 

  • Better Battery Performance: Pod kit batteries are larger and designed for repeated charging, typically lasting 1-3 days between charges compared to the declining performance you experienced as disposables neared empty. 
  • Consistent Flavour: Fresh coils in each new pod (prefilled) or replaceable coils (refillable) mean you always get optimal flavour rather than the degradation that occurred as disposables aged. 
  • Cost Efficiency: You're not repeatedly buying batteries and electronics with each purchase, significantly reducing long-term costs. 
  • Environmental Benefits: Dramatically less electronic waste since you're only discarding small pods or coils rather than entire devices. 
  • How Much Do Pod Kits Cost?: Initial investment varies depending on the type and features you choose. Basic prefilled pod kit starter packs typically range from £8-15, while more advanced refillable systems might cost £15-30. This covers the device plus initial pods or e-liquid to get started. 

Ongoing costs are where pod kits really shine. Prefilled pod replacements (per unit, not taking into account multi-packs) generally cost less than new disposables while offering similar puff counts. Refillable systems offer even greater savings since bottled e-liquid provides significantly more value than pre-filled options. 

For perspective, a 10ml nicotine salt bottle typically provides the equivalent of 5 disposable vapes worth of liquid at a fraction of the cost. 

Popular Pod Kit Options by Category 

  • Best Entry-Level Prefilled Systems: For those wanting the simplest transition from disposables, consider the Lost Mary BM600 Pod Kit or Elf Bar 600. These systems replicate familiar disposable experiences while adding rechargeable convenience. 
  • The Gold Bar Reload offers premium build quality with the beloved Gold Bar flavour range, while the IVG Air 4in1 provides multiple flavours in one device. 
  • High-Capacity Prefilled Options: If you were a heavy disposable user, explore our 6000 puff vape kits and 10000 puff vape kits categories. The Lost Mary BM6000 and Avomi CLiQ offer extended usage between pod changes. 
  • Best Refillable Pod Kits: For maximum flexibility, the Vaporesso XROS series offers excellent build quality and performance. The Aspire Gotek Pro provides robust construction with intuitive operation, while the UWELL Caliburn series is renowned for flavour and draw quality. 
  • Premium Options: The Lost Mary Nera30k and Hula 7000 represent the premium end of prefilled systems, offering advanced features like digital displays, high puff counts and enhanced customisation. 
  • What About Nicotine Strengths?: Most UK disposables contained 20mg nicotine salt, which has become the standard for pod kit compatibility. Whether choosing prefilled pods or bottled e-liquids, look for 20mg options to maintain your current nicotine intake. 

Many brands also offer 10mg alternatives if you're considering reducing nicotine consumption. The beauty of refillable systems is the ability to gradually step down nicotine levels by mixing different strengths or choosing lower concentrations over time. 

Nicotine salt formulations provide the smooth throat hit you experienced with disposables, making the transition feel natural and satisfying.  

Common Concerns About Pod Kits 

  • "Will I need to learn complicated settings?": Modern pod kits are designed for simplicity. Most are draw-activated with automatic power adjustment, requiring no technical knowledge. Advanced features are typically optional extras rather than necessities. 
  • "What if I fill a refillable pod wrong?": E-liquid filling is straightforward - remove the cap, squeeze liquid into the opening until full, replace the cap. Most pods have clear filling indicators, and overfilling simply means liquid might leak out rather than causing damage. 
  • "How do I know when to replace pods or coils?": Prefilled pods are replaced when empty or when flavour diminishes. Refillable pods need new coils when flavour becomes muted or you notice a burnt taste. Most users develop a natural sense for timing within a week or two. 
  • "What about charging?": Most pod kits use USB-C charging and provide 1-3 days of use per charge. Charging typically takes 30-90 minutes, and many users simply charge overnight like a mobile phone.  

Making Your First Pod Kit Choice 

  • If you want the simplest transition: Choose a prefilled pod kit from your preferred disposable brand. The SKE Crystal Plus, or Elf Bar Elfa Pro offer familiar flavours with minimal learning curve. 
  • If you want to explore flavours: Consider a refillable pod kit like the Vaporesso XROS or Aspire Gotek paired with a selection of 10ml nicotine salt e-liquids
  • If you were a heavy disposable user: Look at high-capacity options in our 6000 puff or 8000 puff categories to minimise pod replacement frequency. 
  • If you want premium features: Consider advanced options like the Lost Mary Nera30k or Avomi CLiQ with features like digital displays and enhanced customisation.  

Reduced - ends 31st Dec

Elf Bar 600 Prefilled Pod Vape Kits
Elf Bar 600 Prefilled Pod Vape Kits

Kit + 1 x E-Liquid

Aspire Gotek Pro Pod Vape Kit
Aspire Gotek Pro Pod Vape Kit

2ml + 10ml Pod Included

Gold Bar XL Prefilled Pod Vape Kit
Gold Bar XL Prefilled Pod Vape Kit

Kit + Extra Pod Included

IVG  Air 4-in-1 Prefilled Pod Vape Kit
IVG Air 4-in-1 Prefilled Pod Vape Kit

Kit + 3 x E-Liquids

Vaporesso Xros 5 Pod Vape Kit
Vaporesso Xros 5 Pod Vape Kit

Reduced - ends 31st Dec

Hula 7000 Prefilled Pod Vape Kits
Hula 7000 Prefilled Pod Vape Kits

Conclusion

Pod kits represent a natural evolution from disposables rather than a complicated departure. Whether you choose prefilled systems that closely mirror the disposable experience or refillable options that open up new possibilities, the core vaping experience remains familiar and satisfying. 

The initial learning curve is minimal, especially with prefilled systems, and the benefits - cost savings, environmental responsibility, better performance - become apparent within days. Most importantly, you're not sacrificing convenience or simplicity for these advantages. 

Visit Vapestore to explore our complete range of prefilled pod kits and refillable pod systems. Our Customer Services Team is available to help match you with the perfect starter kit and answer any questions about making the transition. 

What is the Elf Bar Pro prefilled pod kit?

The Elf Bar Elfa Pro is a prefilled pod system that offers the same flavours as classic Elf Bar disposables in a rechargeable format. It uses magnetic pod connections and provides 600 puffs per pod with familiar draw-activated operation.

How much do pod kits cost compared to disposables?

Initial pod kit purchases range from £8-30 depending on features, but ongoing costs are significantly lower than repeatedly buying disposables. Most users see savings within 2-3 weeks of switching.

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

Prefilled pod kits use pre-made cartridges similar to disposables, while refillable systems let you add your own bottled e-liquid. Prefilled offers more convenience, while refillable provides greater flexibility and cost savings.

How long do pre-filled pods last?

Most prefilled pods provide 400-600 puffs, similar to disposables. Battery life is typically 1-3 days per charge, substantially better than single-use devices.

Are refillable pod kits complicated to use?

Not at all. Filling involves removing a cap, adding e-liquid, and replacing the cap. Most users master the process within a few attempts, and it becomes routine within days.

What's the best refillable pod kit for beginners?

The Vaporesso XROS series and Aspire Gotek offer excellent build quality with simple operation. Both are draw-activated and require no technical knowledge to operate effectively.

Can I use any e-liquid in refillable pod kits?

Most refillable pod kits work best with 50/50 VG/PG e-liquids, particularly nicotine salts. Avoid high-VG liquids (70%+ VG) as they may be too thick for efficient wicking in pod systems.