Replacement Pods & Coils — The Complete Buying Guide 2026
📖 Vapin Loud Expert Guide — 2026
Replacement Pods & Coils
The complete 2026 buying guide — when to replace, what to buy, and how to make them last
📋 Jump to a section:
💡 Pods vs Coils — What’s the Difference?
This is one of the most common questions we get in store. The short answer: pods and coils do the same job — they heat your e-liquid to create vapour — but they’re designed for different types of devices.
💨 Replacement Pods
Pods are self-contained units that hold both the e-liquid reservoir and the heating element in one piece. When the pod is done, you replace the whole thing.
Used in: Pod kits like Lost Mary BM6000, SKE Crystal, Vaporesso XROS, Voopoo Drag S
- ✅ Simple — just swap and go
- ✅ No mess, no priming needed
- ✅ Consistent flavour every time
- ⚠️ Slightly more expensive per unit
🌀 Replacement Coils
Coils are just the heating element inside a tank or pod. The tank stays on your device — you only replace the coil when it burns out.
Used in: Sub-ohm tanks, rebuildable atomisers, and some advanced pod systems like Vaporesso GTX, Aspire, Geekvape
- ✅ More cost-effective long term
- ✅ More control over your vape
- ✅ Wide range of resistances
- ⚠️ Requires priming before use
⏰ When Should You Replace Your Pod or Coil?
Knowing when to replace is key to a great vaping experience. Here are the tell-tale signs your pod or coil is done:
💨 Burnt or Harsh Taste
The most obvious sign. A burnt, acrid taste means the coil cotton is burnt out. Replace immediately — continuing to vape on a burnt coil is unpleasant and potentially harmful.
📉 Reduced Vapour Production
If your clouds are noticeably thinner than usual, your coil is likely clogged with residue or wearing out. Time for a fresh one.
🦪 Muted or Changed Flavour
When your favourite e-liquid starts tasting flat, dull or different, it’s usually a sign the coil is gunked up with residue from previous e-liquids.
💧 Leaking or Gurgling
Gurgling sounds or e-liquid leaking into your mouthpiece can indicate a flooded or failing coil. A new coil (properly primed) usually fixes this.
📅 Time-Based Replacement
Even if you don’t notice obvious signs, replace your coil every 1–2 weeks if you vape regularly. Heavy vapers may need to replace every 5–7 days.
⚡ Device Firing Issues
If your device shows a “no atomiser” or “check atomiser” error, the coil may have failed or lost connection. Try a new coil before assuming it’s a device fault.
💡 Rule of thumb: If your vape doesn’t taste right, the coil is almost always the culprit. A fresh coil costs a fraction of a new device.
🌀 Types of Coils — Which One Do You Need?
Coils come in different resistances (measured in ohms — Ω). The resistance affects your vaping style, vapour production and e-liquid type.
⚡
Sub-Ohm Coils
Below 1.0Ω
Big clouds, warm vape, direct-to-lung (DTL) style. Use with high-VG shortfill e-liquids (0mg–3mg).
💨
MTL Coils
1.0Ω and above
Mouth-to-lung draw, similar to a cigarette. Best with nic salts (10mg–20mg) or 50/50 e-liquids.
🧲
Mesh Coils
Available in both
Mesh heating element for faster, more even heating. Better flavour and longer lifespan than traditional wire coils.
⚠️ Always check your device’s compatible coil range. Using the wrong coil resistance can damage your device or give a poor vaping experience. Not sure? Ask our team in any Vapin Loud store.
📦 Types of Replacement Pods
Not all pods are the same. Here’s a breakdown of the main types you’ll find in 2026:
🟢 Prefilled Pods
Come pre-loaded with e-liquid — just click in and vape. No filling required. Popular with brands like Lost Mary BM6000, SKE Crystal, Hayati. Available in set flavours and nicotine strengths.
🔵 Refillable Pods
Empty pods you fill yourself with your chosen e-liquid. More economical and flexible. Used in devices like Vaporesso XROS, Voopoo Drag, Oxva Xlim. Replace when flavour degrades.
🔴 Coil-Integrated Pods
The coil is built into the pod itself. When the coil burns out, you replace the whole pod. Common in Aspire, Innokin, Uwell devices. Simple but slightly more expensive per replacement.
🟠 Replaceable Coil Pods
The pod stays, but the coil inside is replaceable. Best of both worlds — you keep the pod and just swap the coil. Found in Vaporesso GTX, Geekvape Aegis systems.
💪 How to Make Your Pods & Coils Last Longer
A few simple habits can significantly extend the life of your coils and pods — saving you money and improving your vaping experience.
💧 1. Prime Your Coil Properly
Before first use, add a few drops of e-liquid directly onto the coil cotton and let it sit for 5–10 minutes. This prevents dry hits and extends coil life dramatically.
🔋 2. Don’t Chain Vape
Taking puff after puff without a break overheats the coil and burns the cotton. Give your device 20–30 seconds between puffs to let the coil cool and re-saturate.
🧪 3. Use the Right E-Liquid
High-VG e-liquids are thicker and can gunk up coils faster. High-sugar or sweetened e-liquids also caramelise on coils. Use e-liquids suited to your device’s coil resistance.
📏 4. Keep Your Tank Topped Up
Never let your tank or pod run completely dry. Vaping on an empty tank causes dry hits which instantly burn the coil cotton. Top up when you reach the minimum fill line.
⚙️ 5. Use the Right Wattage
Running your coil above its recommended wattage range burns it out faster. Check the wattage range printed on your coil and stay within it for best results.
🧹 6. Clean Your Device Regularly
Wipe down the pod connection points and tank threads regularly. E-liquid residue can affect performance and cause connection issues. A clean device = a better vape.
🛒 Shop Replacement Pods & Coils
In stock at all 5 Vapin Loud stores and available online. Not sure which one you need? Our team will help you find the right match for your device.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I replace my coil?
For regular vapers, every 1–2 weeks. Heavy vapers may need to replace every 5–7 days. Light vapers can stretch to 3 weeks. Replace sooner if you notice a burnt taste, reduced vapour or muted flavour.
How do I know which replacement pod fits my device?
Check your device’s brand and model name, then look for pods labelled for that specific device. For example, “Lost Mary BM6000 Replacement Pods” only fit the BM6000. Bring your device into any Vapin Loud store and we’ll find the right match.
Can I use any coil in my device?
No — coils are device-specific. You must use coils designed for your exact tank or pod system. Using the wrong coil can damage your device. Check the coil packaging or ask in store.
Why does my new coil taste burnt?
You likely didn’t prime it properly. Before first use, add a few drops of e-liquid to the coil cotton, fill your tank and wait 5–10 minutes before vaping. Start at a lower wattage and gradually increase.
Are mesh coils better than regular coils?
Generally yes — mesh coils heat more evenly, produce better flavour and tend to last longer than traditional wire coils. Most modern devices now use mesh coils as standard.
Do you stock replacement pods and coils in store?
Yes! All 5 Vapin Loud stores stock a wide range of replacement pods and coils for the most popular devices. Visit us in Plumstead, Eltham, Welling, Crayford or Rochester, or find your nearest store →
📚 Related Guides
⚠️ Warning: Vaping products containing nicotine are highly addictive. Not suitable for non-smokers, pregnant women or individuals under 18. Always use the correct coil and e-liquid for your device.

