You’d have to be blind to miss the spiralling price rises of recent months. From cooking oil to the electricity powering the device you are reading this on right now, everything seems to be going up in price.
Fortunately, not only is vaping much cheaper than smoking, it is also one area that seems resistant to price rises (so far!) In fact, buying a good vape kit costs less than it did a decade ago, and you can buy a reasonable device for less than a tenner. Sure, it won’t have all the bells and whistles of the fanciest devices - but at the end of the day, what’s important is it delivers the nicotine needed to keep you off cigarettes.
So in this post, we’ve selected a range of vape kits to suit every budget, along with some handy tips to ensure costs are low in the long term, not just when you buy your first kit!
- Best cheap vape kit under £5
- Best cheap vape kits under £10
- Best cheap vape kits under £20
- Best cheap vape kits under £30
- Best cheap vape kits under £50
- What are the cheapest vape kits to buy?
- What to consider when looking for a cheap vape device
- 5 top tips for saving money when you vape
- Wrapping up
- Related guides
Hexa Mini
For a long time, the Hexa V2.0 was the best option for a pre-filled pod device. A while back, the original device was replaced with two new devices – the Hexa Pro and the Hexa Mini.
The Hexa Pro is easily the better of the two. That’s because the Hexa Mini is a little flimsier, comes with Micro USB charging (instead of USB-C) and the fit between the pod and device is a little loose.
But still! This is a complete, reusable kit for less than the cost of many disposable devices. The blend of freebase and nicotine salts delivers an excellent experience for this type of kit, and it boasts a larger capacity than its much-hyped rival, the JUUL. If you just want to dip your toes into vaping, this is hard to beat – and if it works for you, you can always upgrade to the Hexa Pro in the future.
Pros:
- Experience similar to smoking
- Reusable battery
- Cheaper than a disposable, less than half the price of a pack of cigarettes
Cons:
- Micro USB charging design
- Prefilled pods are more expensive than refillable pods in the long run
Read more: JUUL Beaters: The New Hexa Vape Devices
Elf Bar Elfa Pro
Disposable vapes may provide great flavour, but they can be VERY expensive in the long run. Elf Bar’s Elfa Pro device is a great way to enjoy disposable-style flavours in a less expensive (and less environmentally harmful) way.
Using pre-filled pods in popular Elf Bar flavours, this rechargeable device looks and tastes like an Elf Bar disposable and is almost as easy to use. You simply attach the pod and inhale on the mouthpiece. The only difference is that you will need to recharge the battery and replace the pod when they are finished.
While the initial Elfa Pro kit is low cost, the additional cost of purchasing Elfa Pro pods will work out more expensive than using a refillable device in the long run. Despite this, it still makes a great, more budget-friendly option compared to disposables.
Pros:
- Perfect starter kit
- Disposable-style flavours
- Cheaper & more environmentally friendly than using Elf Bars
- Easy to use
Cons:
- Prefilled pods work out more expensive than refillable pods in the long run
Aspire R1
Another more cost-effective alternative to regular disposables, the Aspire R1 is a disposable with a difference! With a fixed coil, rechargeable battery and refillable pod, it lasts longer than regular disposables and only needs to be disposed of when the coil burns out.
A perfect stepping stone between disposables and regular reusable devices, the R1 is super easy to use with no buttons and inhale activation. Another great plus is the refillable pod - which allows you to use any vape juice flavour you like.
Although the R1 is a great alternative to regular disposables, it still needs to be disposed of after a certain number of uses. So while you’ll save money compared to disposables, a regular refillable device is still more cost effective.
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Can be used with any vape juice flavour
- Lasts longer than other disposables
Cons:
- More expensive than regular devices in the long run
Vaporesso Xros 3 Mini
The Vaporesso Xros 3 Mini is a great device for both its small size and low price. A more compact version of the Xros 3, it is suitable for users of all experience levels and is super easy to use.
Part of the popular Xros Series, it's a buttonless, fixed-coil device with no settings or coil changes required - a great low-cost option for beginners. There’s also an impressive battery that can last up to 2 days of use between charges.
While beginner-friendly, the Xros 3 Mini also has the benefit of supporting a choice of inhale styles. Unlike most fixed-coil pod devices that are typically MTL exclusive, there’s an RDL pod option for those who prefer a more restricted inhale.
As with other devices mentioned above, while the initial cost of the Xros 3 Mini is low, the fixed-coil pods do mean additional costs in the long run. While more cost-effective compared to smoking and disposables, it is still more expensive in the long run than a regular, refillable device with replaceable coils.
Pros:
- Easy to use - no settings or coil changes required
- Up to 2 days’ battery life
- MTL & RDL pod options
- Flavour-enhancing technology
Cons:
- Fixed-coil pods aren’t as environmentally friendly as regular devices
Oxva Xlim Pro
With its balance of ease of use and versatility, Oxva’s Xlim Pro is a device that can appeal to most vapers.
While we wouldn’t recommend this device to a complete newbie or those just switching from disposables, it’s still a simple enough device for those with just a little experience to get used to.
Less experienced users will appreciate the convenient fixed-coil pods and easy inhale-firing design, while those who like more control can utilise the adjustable wattage and airflow control to tailor their vape to their preferences.
Combine this with a 1000mAh battery that can last up to 3 days between charges, and you’ve got a great all-around device that won’t break the bank.
Our in-house testers were particularly impressed with the Xlim Pro’s flavour and pod life:
“The pods produced good flavour when used with nicotine salts, and the top-filling design is very convenient as you don’t need to remove the pod from the device for refilling. I was impressed to find that a single pod lasted me around 5 days before needing to be replaced…”
Reviewed by Dawn, ECD Product Team
Pros:
- Up to 3 days battery life
- Convenient fixed-coil pods & inhale firing
- Long-lasting pods
Smok Nord 2
The original award-winning Smok Nord proved to be a hugely popular device – and that was before the Nord 2 came along with a number of serious improvements.
Simple to use, the Smok Nord 2 has a power range of 1 – 40 watts. That means it can be used for anything from soft, gentle vapour to something a bit punchier. You can also tweak the performance by choosing between two different coils. The Nord coils themselves are some of the best coils Smok make, with good longevity, reliability and excellent flavour.
For those looking to save money when vaping, it’s worth noting that replaceable coils mean better value in the long term than any of the previous kits. That’s because when the coil comes to the end of its life, you can just swap the coil out instead of buying a whole new pod.
Pros:
- Replaceable coils make it more economical
- Simple, compact, easy-to-use
- Comfortable duck-billed mouthpiece
Cons:
- Micro USB charging
Uwell Caliburn X
Uwell’s Caliburn Series are some of our most popular vape kits, with a collection of easy-to-use pod kits that provide great flavour. The Caliburn X, however, is a little different from the others.
The first Caliburn device with adjustable wattage, the Caliburn X has the largest power range and battery capacity of any Caliburn, plus the inclusion of a display screen and adjustable airflow. It also has an impressive battery life - with up to 24hrs of use between charges.
While the Caliburn X is relatively easy to use, it’s not quite as accessible as the others for complete beginners. Unlike other Caliburn devices, the adjustable power isn’t automatically set - so you will need to familiarise yourself with the best wattage for the coil you choose.
Finally, this wouldn’t be a true Caliburn device without great flavour! Thanks to Uwell’s Pro-FOCS flavour-enhancing technology, you get rich, consistent taste with every puff.
Pros:
- Long-lasting battery life
- Adjustable airflow
- Great taste
Cons:
- Wattage needs to be manually set
- Only supports MTL vaping
Vaporesso Luxe XR
The Vaporesso Luxe XR - boasts both style AND substance for a very reasonable price. A great all-around device, this pod mod has a lot going for it - ease of use, long-lasting power, good looks and great flavour.
Appealing to both new and more experienced users alike, the Luxe X is super easy to use with Smart Power Control meaning you don’t need to worry about manually setting your wattage. Our testing found the fixed 1500mAh lasts up to a day of use - impressive for such a compact device.
Combining 40W of power with a wide range of compatible coil resistances, the Luxe X can provide both MTL and DL inhale styles to cater to all tastes. The included GTX coils also utilise Vaporesso’s COREX technology for rich flavour and up to 50% extra coil life.
Our one downside is the darker-coloured pod, which makes it a little difficult to see your vape juice levels. But, other than that small issue, this is all-around a pretty perfect pod kit!
Prefer a fixed-coil version? See the Luxe X.
Pros:
- Suited to new and more experienced users
- Supports MTL & DL vaping
- No-fuss auto power selection
- Long-lasting battery
- Futuristic style
- Great flavour & long-lasting coils
Cons:
- Dark-coloured pod
Innokin Coolfire Z50
Innokin’s Coolfire range has provided some of our favourite kits. While the Coolfire Z50 isn’t the newest kit on the market, we find it’s still one of the best MTL mod options in this price bracket. It’s a great option for less experienced vapers moving on from smoking. Paired with higher-resistance coils at lower wattages, it provides a strong, cigarette-style throat hit.
The Z50 boasts great aesthetics -sleek and compact with a curved design and matte finish, it differs from other, more bulky mod kits. Made up of the 50W Z50 mod and Zlide tank, this kit can provide both MTL and DL vaping but comes into its own as an MTL device. Easy to use, with intuitive controls, we found the battery life impressive too - lasting up to a full day between charges.
However, the fact this is an older kit does mean it’s missing some of the more convenient features we see with newer options. The screw-in coil design is a little more fiddly than modern push-fit installation. and the micro USB charging design isn’t as rapid as the USB-C design that’s become standard in recent years.
Pros:
- Long-lasting battery life
- Supports MTL & DL inhales
- Great aesthetics
- Cigarette-style throat hit
Cons:
- Screw in coils
- Micro USB charging design
Vaporesso Target 100
Although not the newest device on the market, this is currently our favourite vape device, and we like everything about it. The form factor is superb, as is the water-resistant braid finish that offers a comfortable and secure grip.
We also prefer it to the Target 200, as the Target 100 offers all the features of the Target 200 but with more versatility, as you can choose to use either 18650 or 21700 batteries. True, with a top power output of 200 watts, the Target 200 has double the maximum wattage of the Target 100 - but in reality, unless you are building your own coils, you never need to go above 100 watts anyway.
Finally, there’s the flavour - which is some of the best we’ve encountered!. It’s hard to say whether this is down to the turbo airflow system or to (Ft) mode, but we don’t need to say why - it’s enough that it’s excellent!
Do note that this is a bit more complex to use than the other devices, and is best for vapers with some existing experience.
Pros:
- Superb flavour with F(t) mode
- 5 vaping modes allows you to customise your vape
- Choice of 21700 or 18650 battery (not included)
Cons:
- Not suitable for beginners/less experienced users
So far we’ve covered our favourite vape devices in each price range. But if you’re looking for more options, or cheap vape devices in each category, here’s a selection of very budget-friendly devices.
Cheap vape pens
The IO pod system squeezes in as our cheapest vape pen. This truly tiny pen is great for lovers of compact devices, while the open filling system helps you save money over pre-filled pods.
Alternatively, if you’re happy to spend a little more you might want to consider the Vaporesso GTX Go 40. This is a 40 watt pod device from a top brand capable of both Mouth-to-Lung and Direct-Lung vaping, and is a real bargain at just over ten pounds.
Cheap vape pod systems
After the Hexa Mini, the cheapest pod device currently available is the Vaporesso Osmall. This is a slightly older kit, but has remained very popular with vapers. As the name suggests, it is a compact device that will fit neatly into a pocket. Size is not the only pro here - the coils are designed with flax cotton to ensure great flavour.
Next up is the Smok Solus 2. Coming with fixed coil pods and inhale-to-fire operation, the Solus is a great choice for vapers who are looking for something uber-easy to use.
Cheap pod mod systems
f you want a pod system that delivers a little bit more power, you’re best off looking at a pod mod. With larger batteries, these devices cost a little more, but you can still pick up a kit for less than £20.00.
The current cheapest pod mod is the Voopoo V.Suit. This is a compact, minimalist device that can deliver up to 40 watts of power and comes with an innovative surface material that both reduces weight and is pleasant to hold.
If you’d prefer something that can produce thick, dense vapour clouds, and are willing to spend a bit more, consider the Smok Nord 4. This versatile device can be used for either Mouth-to-Lung or Direct-Lung vaping, and can pump out up to 80 watts of power.
Cheap vape mod kits
Mod kits are more complex and, usually, more powerful than other vape devices, so it’s no surprise they are the most expensive category. In fact, to go under £15.00 you’d need to consider the Jem vape device. While a popular and reliable mod, the Jem doesn’t have the power or functionality many mod users are looking for.
Next up is the Vaporesso Gen Fit, which serves as an easy-to-use introduction to mod and tank vaping with an adjustable 3-level power output in place of manual wattage settings and an inhale firing option. Unfortunately, there aren’t many good cheap options available for quality mods that can deliver both decent power and excellent flavour. So if power is important to you and you can afford it, I’d again recommend going for the Vaporesso Target 100. The best current mod device, if not the best vape device currently available, it still offers excellent value for money.
While saving money is important, there are some areas where it’s best not to compromise - as doing so can end up being more costly in the long term! These are:
Choose a reliable brand
When it comes to vaping, brands matter. Getting the details of vaping right - the coil, the anti-leaking mechanisms, that feeling on the back of your throat - is tricky. Some brands have spent years working on these details, and it’s worth sticking with the ones that (mostly!) get it right. Fortunately, most of these brands also produce very reasonably priced devices. Here are some great brands to choose from!
Make sure it’s legal
There’s another reason not to buy just any old thing from a market stall! Not all devices available in the UK are legal - some have been smuggled in. And that matters, because UK regulations require all devices to undergo testing before they can go on sale. This testing helps eliminate toxins, meaning legal vape devices are as safe as possible. In contrast, illegal devices could produce more toxins, and contain e-liquid that contain banned or harmful substances.
Here’s some clues which will help you to identify if your device is legal.
As you may have gathered from this post so far, if you really want to save money, you need to think about more than the cost of the initial purchase. The cheapest devices to buy are often some of the most expensive to maintain in the long run. Here’s five things to consider…
1. Avoid disposable vapes
Disposable vapes can appear cheap, but that’s not actually the case. In fact, 1ml of e-liquid in a disposable vape often costs more than 10ml of e-liquid for use in a refillable device. It’s well worth spending a little more on a reusable device - and reaping long term savings from doing so.
2. Use refillable devices
As we’ve touched on before, using refillable pods or tanks is the next step on your journey to becoming a savvy budget vaper. Pre-filled pods are better value than disposables, but buying e-liquid and refilling your device yourself represents better value again.
3. Choose replaceable coils
The final step is to choose devices with replaceable coils. Many vapers are worried this will be fiddly, but vaping technology has come a long way in recent years. With most devices, push-fit coil technology means you no longer need to unscrew the coil - so for a few seconds of your time, you no longer need to replace the whole tank, but can replace just one part of it instead.
4. Add e-liquid to get to the free shipping threshold
Many sites offer free shipping over a threshold. For example, at E-Cigarette Direct you can free 48 hour tracked shipping on orders over £15.00 and free 24 hour tracked shipping on orders over £20.00 - meaning you can often get a cheap bottle of e-liquid by increasing your order slightly.
5. Look for sales and clearance
Finally, it’s a great idea to keep an eye out on vape sales and clearance pages. The wonder device of last year is still a great device, but can often be picked up for a bargain price by the savvy shopper.
Want even more tips to help you save money? Check out our guide to vaping on a budget.
Let’s face it, given the current price of cigarettes, even relatively expensive vape kits and e-liquid offer serious savings over smoking. Armed with these tips and recommendations, you’ll be able to maximise your savings even more!