
What is a coil for an e-cigarette?
A coil for e-cigarette, also called a coil, is a central element of the e-cigarette device, essential to the proper functioning of the device. It is positioned in the clearomizer or in the cartridge that contains the e-liquid. The coil is the essential link between the battery and the e-liquid, converting electrical energy into heat to vaporize the liquid. By saturating itself with e-liquid and heating it, it generates the vapor that is then inhaled by the user.
The coil consists of a resistive wire or mesh and cotton, two elements that have a direct influence on the quality and quantity of vapor produced, as well as on flavor reproduction. As a consumable part, the coil is meant to be replaced regularly to guarantee an optimal vaping experience.
The coil is available in several variants, with different materials and designs to suit various vaping styles. From sub-ohm coils favoring vapor production, to higher-resistance coils for a tighter, flavor-focused vape, there is a coil for every type of vaping and for every e-cigarette model. Your personal preferences will also play a major role in selecting the ideal coil.
It is therefore essential to fully understand the role and function of the coil in your e-cigarette. Knowing how to choose and replace it correctly is an essential skill for any vaper. Whether you are a beginner discovering the world of vaping, or an experienced vaper looking for improvement, a good knowledge of coils will allow you to optimize your vaping experience. Moreover, a well-chosen coil contributes to the durability of your equipment and better management of e-liquid consumption, which can also have a positive impact on your budget.
The different types of coils
There is a wide variety of coils for e-cigarettes adapted to different vaping styles and individual user preferences. Each type of coil has its own characteristics and advantages, and it is essential to understand these differences in order to choose the most suitable coil for your needs. It is also important to experiment with different types of coils to find the one that suits you best.
Kanthal coil
Kanthal is an alloy of iron, chromium, and aluminum, highly prized for its resistance to oxidation and its ability to withstand high temperatures. It is ideal for regular vaping and offers excellent flavor reproduction. Kanthal coils are widely used due to their durability and versatility. They are perfect for vapers looking for a simple and reliable vaping experience. Due to its ability to maintain a stable temperature, kanthal is often the preferred choice for vapers who appreciate a consistent and predictable vape.
Nickel coil
Nickel is used for coils intended for temperature control. It is valued for its thermal reactivity, allowing precise heat management, which is crucial for avoiding cotton burn and improving coil durability. Nickel coils are ideal for those seeking a smooth vape and a purer flavor. However, it is important to note that nickel can cause allergies in some people, so it is recommended to check your tolerance before using it.
Titanium coil
Titanium, like nickel, is often used with temperature control modes. Its fast reactivity and lightness make it a preferred choice for those looking to personalize their vaping experience. Titanium coils offer a smooth vape and are known for their ability to produce exceptional flavor. Titanium also has the advantage of being highly resistant to corrosion, which extends the lifespan of the coil.
Stainless steel coil
Stainless steel is another popular material used in coils. It offers great versatility as it can be used in variable wattage mode or temperature control. Stainless steel coils are recognized for their consistent performance and longevity. In addition, stainless steel is hypoallergenic, making it suitable for a wide range of users. Its properties also allow for fast heating and faithful flavor reproduction.
Ceramic coil
Ceramic coils are valued for their ability to withstand high temperatures and for their long lifespan. They are ideal for those who prefer high-temperature vaping and are looking for an intense flavor. Ceramic has the advantage of offering better protection against dry hits and minimizing the risk of burning. In addition, it provides a more uniform heating surface, which improves the quality of the vapor produced.
Mesh coil
While most classic coils feature a spring-like structure, the Mesh coil stands out with its honeycomb mesh structure. It offers a larger but also gentler heating surface in contact with the surrounding cotton. The result? Fewer dry hits, a better lifespan, better flavor reproduction, and greater vapor production. The Mesh structure has been favored for several years for sub-ohm vaping but is also becoming more widespread for tighter draws in MTL and RDL.
Performance analysis
Each type of coil offers distinct performance. For example, kanthal coils are often preferred for their stability and ability to offer a consistent vape without requiring complex settings. In contrast, nickel and titanium coils are better suited to users who want to take advantage of advanced temperature control features for a tailored vaping experience. Stainless steel coils are valued for their versatility, while ceramic coils are often chosen for their durability and ability to maintain optimal performance over an extended period in MTL. The choice of coil must therefore take into account not only the material, but also expectations in terms of performance and durability.
Compatibility and innovation
It is also essential to verify the compatibility of coils with your vaping device. Certain brands and models offer specific coils designed to maximize the performance of their devices. For example, stainless steel coils can be used in variable wattage or temperature control mode, thus offering flexibility of use. Constant innovations in the field of coils, such as new material compositions or coil designs, continually improve vape quality and offer users ever more personalized and satisfying experiences. Finally, technological advances, such as mesh coils that offer a larger heating surface, allow vapor production and flavor reproduction to be maximized.
How to choose your coil?
Choosing the right coil for your e-cigarette is one of the key steps to optimizing your vaping experience. Pre-built coils contain a resistive wire surrounded by an absorbent wick to deliver the right amount of e-liquid to its contact and convert it into vapor. Although all coils work this way, several criteria must be taken into account to select the option that best matches your needs and preferences.
Basic considerations
In order to choose the ideal coil, it is essential to understand a few basic concepts. The ohm value of the coil, for example, determines the type of vaping (MTL or DL) and influences the amount of vapor produced as well as the throat hit. In addition, the materials used for the resistive wire (kanthal, nickel, titanium, stainless steel, ceramic) each have their own properties and advantages. Finally, compatibility with your vaping equipment is crucial to guarantee optimal performance and avoid any damage to your device.
Vape MTL
For MTL (Mouth To Lung) vaping, coils of 0.80 to 1.8 ohm are recommended. They are recognizable by their slim chimney and allow indirect inhalation vaping. They offer small, flavor-concentrated puffs, for realistic vaping sensations close to those of a cigarette. This type of coil has the advantage of minimizing e-liquid consumption and is suited to relatively fluid e-liquids (less than 50% vegetable glycerin to avoid clogging). They are particularly recommended for e-liquids with a high nicotine content.
Vape DL
DL (Direct Lung) vaping is characterized by direct inhalation, requiring sub-ohm coils (below 1 ohm). These coils favor the production of large amounts of vapor and a less pronounced hit, for sensations close to those of a hookah. They are ideal for cloud enthusiasts or high-power vapers. Flavors also tend to be more diffuse. Sub-ohm coils are often preferred for e-liquids with a high VG content (vegetable glycerin), which are more viscous and require more heating. These models are incompatible with e-liquids with a nicotine level higher than 6 mg/ml.
Versatile or RDL vaping
Some coils are designed to be versatile, adapting to both MTL and DL styles. They offer a balance between vapor production and throat hit, ideal for vapers who like to vary their experience. Choosing a versatile coil can be particularly interesting if you are a curious vaper who enjoys experimenting with different vaping styles or different types of e-liquids.
Specifications of your equipment
In addition to vaping style, it is important to choose a coil compatible with your equipment. Indeed, e-cigarette brands and models have their own specifications and require appropriate coils. Moreover, some coil models are specially designed to work with specific modes of your device, such as temperature control, variable wattage, or bypass. It is therefore important to carefully read the coil's characteristics and the manufacturer's recommendations before making your choice.
Other factors to consider
It is also relevant to take into account the frequency of coil changes. If you are an intensive vaper, you may want to opt for coils known for their longevity. Similarly, the cost of coils can vary, and it is wise to find a balance between performance and budget. Finally, the availability of coils compatible with your equipment should be verified to avoid interruptions in your vaping experience. Another aspect to consider is the ease of installation and maintenance of the coil, especially if you are a new user.
Testing and adjustment
It is often necessary to test different coils to find the one that suits you best. Every vaper has their preferences in terms of flavor, vapor production, and throat hit. Do not hesitate to experiment with different types and brands of coils to refine your choice. By also adjusting your device's settings, such as wattage and temperature control, you can optimize your coil's performance and thus improve your vaping experience. If possible, consult other users' reviews to get an idea of the performance and durability of the different coils available on the market.
Changing your coil: how-to guide
Changing a coil for an e-cigarette is a simple but crucial procedure for maintaining a good vaping experience. This task, although straightforward, requires a certain delicacy and rigorous follow-through of the indicated steps to avoid any damage to your equipment or a deterioration of the quality of your vape:
- Prime the new coil by applying a few drops of e-liquid to the cotton;
- Unscrew the lower part of the atomizer. This step allows access to the coil;
- Clean the atomizer to remove e-liquid residue;
- Screw in the new coil;
- Make sure everything is properly adjusted to avoid leaks;
- Fill the tank with your favorite e-liquid;
- Wait 10 minutes for the cotton to soak up the e-liquid.
- Test the new coil at a low wattage to avoid early burning.
It is important to note that this operation must be carried out with care. Priming is an essential step to avoid burning the cotton on first use. Make sure not to over-tighten the new coil during installation, as this could damage the atomizer threading. Also make sure to respect the power range recommended by the manufacturer for your coil. This will optimize the lifespan of your coil and provide you with a better vaping experience. Regular maintenance of your coil is also essential to extend its lifespan and preserve the quality of your vaping experience. Finally, remember to check the condition of the seals with each change to avoid any risk of leakage.
When should you change your coil?
It is advisable to change the coil for your e-cigarette when you notice:
- A burnt or metallic taste;
- A decrease in flavor;
- E-liquid leaks or flooding;
- A significant decrease in vapor production;
- Abnormal heating of the e-cigarette.
Sometimes, a visual inspection is enough to assess the state of degradation of the coil. Simply check whether the cotton shows black or dark brown deposits. This typically varies between one to four weeks depending on usage. However, this duration can be affected by several factors. For example, the frequency of use of your e-cigarette, the type of e-liquid used, and the power settings can all play a role.
Factors influencing the lifespan of your coil
The use of very sweet or very viscous e-liquids, as well as excessive vaping power, can accelerate coil wear. Similarly, insufficient maintenance of your equipment can reduce the lifespan of your coil. Complex and indulgent flavors can also clog the coil more quickly. Finally, frequent use of your e-cigarette can also influence the lifespan of the coil.
Regular monitoring for an optimal vaping experience
It is therefore essential to regularly monitor the condition of your coil and replace it at the first signs of failure to guarantee an optimal vaping experience. Remember, the quality of your vape depends largely on the condition of your coil. A coil in good condition ensures the production of quality vapor, good flavor reproduction, and comfortable use of your e-cigarette.
Is not changing your coil dangerous?
Studies have shown that health dangers and risks are often linked to overly worn coils. When they are too clogged, they heat up and vaporize the deposits present in the chimney (e-liquid deposits, dust, etc.) which can turn into vapors containing heavy metals. And since you have finally freed yourself from cigarettes and all their toxic components (including heavy metals), it would be a shame to find them again in your e-cigarette kit due to an old and worn-out coil. No need to panic, however: a worn coil generally produces a burnt taste that warns of its health dangers. If you notice it, immediately change your coil, making sure to prime it correctly.
Tips to maximize the lifespan of your coil
Check its compatibility with your kit
Always make sure that the coil you use is compatible with your vaping equipment, your kit, and your e-liquid. An incompatible coil can damage your e-cigarette, cause leaks or dry hits, and reduce the quality of your vape. To ensure this compatibility, refer to the recommendations of your device's manufacturer. If in doubt, do not hesitate to consult other users' reviews or ask a professional for advice.
Prime properly and always keep the coil fed with e-liquid
In order to avoid damaging your coil right from installation and during the first days of vaping, always make sure to properly prime your new coil when installing it. Pouring a few drops of e-liquid directly onto the dry cotton and waiting a few minutes during the first fill will guarantee a better lifespan for your coil. During use, we recommend always vaping with a tank that is at least half full of e-liquid so that your coil never dries out and remains fully submerged.
Choosing the right settings
It is crucial to adjust your device's settings according to the type of coil used, especially for coils requiring temperature control. Indeed, each type of coil has an optimal power range that must be respected to ensure a good coil lifespan and a satisfying vape. The recommended power settings (watts) are generally indicated on the coils. It is important to follow these recommendations to avoid damaging the coil and to optimize the performance of your e-cigarette. The ohm value of the coil is also an essential parameter. It largely determines the vaping style (MTL or DL) and must be chosen according to your preferences and your device. For advanced users, adjusting preheating settings can also play a role in preserving the coil. Finally, modern vaping devices often offer additional features such as temperature control mode, which can be particularly useful for extending the lifespan of your coil. By correctly adjusting these settings, you can avoid excessive overheating and ensure a more pleasant and lasting vaping experience.
Clean and maintain your kit and clearomizer
Clean your clearomizer regularly when changing the coil to avoid the build-up of residue and extend the lifespan of your device. A hot water rinse followed by a thorough drying every 2 to 3 weeks is generally sufficient. Also remember to check the condition of the seals and replace them if necessary. We also recommend cleaning the drip tip (mouthpiece) ideally every day and checking whether any dust has settled inside the chimney. A clean clearomizer ensures better e-liquid feeding and, consequently, better coil performance. In addition, regular maintenance helps detect early signs of wear or malfunction, which can save you from more serious problems in the future. Don't forget to disassemble and thoroughly clean all parts of the clearomizer to ensure optimal cleanliness.
Do not try to clean your coil
All parts of your clearomizer can be cleaned with water, except for the coil. Water and moisture can cause corrosion on metal parts and deteriorate the cotton surrounding it. In addition, deposits and dust will not disappear and will spread deeper into the coil. Cleaning with paper towels or cotton swabs should also be avoided as they can leave or spread more deposits while disturbing the coil's structure. Only a coil replacement can save you from burnt tastes.
Handling
Be careful when handling the coil. Avoid touching it with your fingers to avoid leaving greasy marks that could affect its function. Preferably use ceramic tweezers or plastic tweezers to handle it. When installing the coil, make sure it is securely fixed but without over-tightening to avoid damaging the atomizer threads. Careful handling is essential to avoid damaging the sensitive components of the coil. A bad drop can unsolder part of the coil, which may then be poorly or no longer detected by your kit. In addition, correct installation ensures good electrical contact, which is crucial for optimal performance. When reassembling the different parts of your e-cigarette, make sure there are no e-liquid leaks, which could also affect the performance of the coil.
Store away from moisture and heat
Always store your coils in a dry place at room temperature. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures, which could alter their performance. For extra protection, keep them in their original packaging until use. In addition, it is recommended to regularly check the condition of your stored coils to ensure they have not suffered any damage. Proper storage prevents corrosion and premature deterioration of materials, thus ensuring a longer lifespan. If you have several types of coils, it can be useful to label them for easy identification and to avoid any confusion during use.
Use suitable e-liquids
Using e-liquids suited to your type of coil can also extend its lifespan. E-liquids that are too viscous or too sweet tend to clog coils more quickly. Opt for e-liquids with a balanced PG/VG ratio according to your coil's specifications. Properly saturating the coil's cotton with appropriate e-liquids ensures better heating and optimal vapor production. In addition, using quality e-liquids, free from harmful additives, helps preserve the integrity of the coil's materials. By carefully choosing your e-liquids, you can not only improve the lifespan of your coil, but also optimize the quality of your vaping experience.
Best-selling coils
GeekVape Coil
GeekVape coils are renowned for their durability and ability to produce dense, flavor-rich vapor. They are available for different models, making them a reliable choice for demanding vapers. These coils are designed to withstand intensive use. They are therefore ideal for those who vape regularly throughout the day. In addition, the materials used guarantee a long lifespan and stable performance.
The most well-known and appreciated are the Z Coil Series coils compatible with the sub-ohm Zeus, Z Fli and Z Fli 2 clearomizers found in the Aegis Legend and Aegis Solo Kits. Designed for large vapor production, they feature a Mesh structure highly appreciated by vapers using direct lung or DTL inhaling.
Innokin Coil
Innokin coils are well known for their reliability and consistent performance, making Innokin a popular choice among both beginners and experienced vapers. Furthermore, they are known for their ability to provide superior quality vapor, making each use more enjoyable and satisfying. They are also designed to be durable, meaning they last longer and offer better overall performance. The technological innovations integrated into these coils ensure an optimized vaping experience.
Its most popular coils are the Z Coil compatible with the Zenith and Zlide clearomizers, which revolutionized MTL tight-draw vaping with the CoolFire Kit.
Vaporesso Coil
Vaporesso offers high-quality coils that stand out for their innovation and ability to provide a smooth and enjoyable vaping experience. These Vaporesso coils are designed to maximize vaping efficiency, ensuring optimal vapor production with every puff. In addition, they are manufactured with high-quality materials to guarantee their durability and performance. The diversity of models meets the expectations of the most demanding vapers.
The best-selling Vaporesso coils are the GTX / GTX 2 for their versatile performance (MTL, RDL, DTL) and their flavor rendering on the GTX Kit and Pod Luxe XR Max.
Smoktech or Smok Coil
Smoktech coils are recognized for their quality and performance. They are specially designed to offer a superior vaping experience, with intense vapor production and exceptional flavor. They are also very durable, making Smoktech a preferred choice among many vapers. The reliability of these coils and their compatibility with various e-cigarette models make them a wise choice for any vaper.
The best-selling coils at Smok are the D-Coils compatible with the sub-ohm C-Tank clearomizer and the X-Priv Plus Kits.
Aspire Coil
Aspire coils are famous for their superior quality and performance. They are designed to offer a superior vaping experience, with intense vapor production and exceptional flavor. They are also very durable, guaranteeing a worry-free vaping experience. Aspire coils are often recommended for their ability to provide a consistent and satisfying vape, regardless of the type of e-liquid used.
The most sought-after Aspire coils are the Nautilus, the Pockex, and the AF Flexus, pioneers of MTL vaping with a succession of successful Nautilus clearomizers. For more than 10 years they have accompanied vapers in their tobacco-free lives.
Voopoo Coil
Having arrived on the vaping market a few years ago, the Voopoo brand continues to innovate and offer ever more powerful and practical equipment for everyday use. From MTL pod kits to more DTL ones, Voopoo establishes itself through the quality and care it brings to each of its models. The same goes for the coils that accompany them.
The best Voopoo coils are the PNP-X, which have been featured on their flagship kit, the Drag Pod Kit.
JustFog Coil
Creator of theQ16 range, JustFog owes its success to these small long and slim box-format e-cigarettes specially designed for beginners. A leader in first-time vapers for several years, JustFog Q16 coils are best-sellers in the catalog.
How to choose among the best sellers?
To choose the ideal coil among these best sellers, it is important to take several factors into account. First, identify your vaping style (MTL or DL) and select an appropriate coil. Then, consider compatibility with your vaping equipment. Finally, consider the brand's reputation and other users' reviews. By combining these criteria, you can make an informed choice that will optimize your vaping experience. Don't forget to check the technical specifications and manufacturers' recommendations to ensure optimal and safe use of your equipment.