Which type of tank/atomizer is right for you?
Posted by Courtney McElligott on Jan 24th 2017
Guide to Sub Ohm Vaping and the Available Vape Tanks
The atomizer is one of the most important parts to look at when buying or assembling a vape. So what is an atomizer? Simply put, it is the part of a vaporizer that turns e-liquid into vapor. Atomizers are found on most e-liquid vaporizers and a few wax vaporizers, and they come in several kinds with different functions and prices.
When you have only just been introduced to vaping, the amount of new information can be a lot to take in. For your convenience, we have put together a short crash course on atomizers. Without further ado, let us begin.
Disposable Clearomizer Tanks
As the name implies, once this atomizer is spent, all you have to do is replace it. The upside to disposable atomizers is that they are inexpensive and easy to swap out. On the downside, the vapor production and flavor tend to be more limited.
They can also add up over time because of their short lifespan.
This atomizer type is popular among new vapers, as it should be. If you are new to vaping, you may eventually move to an atomizer that is more cost-efficient over the long term. A disposable clearomizer is a good fit for those who have only just started and want to try things out without spending much.
Replaceable Coil-Head Atomizers
The replaceable coil-head atomizer is common among newer vapers, and for good reason. It is useful for those who want to explore vaping without spending a lot of money. These atomizers are typically affordable, although the price will exceed that of disposables up front. They last much longer, however, so if you are making a longer-term purchase decision you will usually save money in the end.
In addition, replaceable coil-head atomizers have adjustable airflow and are made with higher-quality materials. This makes your sessions more enjoyable, more customizable, and more premium feeling.
The overall vapor quality of replaceable coil-head atomizers is also a lot better than that of disposables. If you decide vaping is a long-term hobby, though, you may want to try an RBA next.
Rebuildable Atomizers (RBA)
Rebuildable Atomizers, commonly abbreviated as RBA, are for vape enthusiasts. They offer the highest vapor quality along with the most customization options.
With an RBA, your clouds can be bigger and your flavor more pronounced. You will pay more up front, but over the long run you can spend less than you would with disposable or replaceable atomizers.
After the initial purchase, there are not many other ongoing purchases involved. In practice, the main things you need to buy are kanthal wire and wicking, both of which are relatively inexpensive, especially in bulk.
Although further purchases are often not necessary, getting your RBA ready is a bit more involved than the other options. We will not get into the full process here, but it is more time consuming than simply swapping a coil.
We hope this guide helps you decide which atomizer fits you. Are you someone who likes to vape but does not have the time (or simply does not want to put in the effort) an RBA requires? If so, replaceable coil-head atomizers may be the way to go.
Do you want a full-featured vapor experience and do not mind the extra setup time? An RBA may be a great match.
In most cases, disposables make the most sense as a starting point when it is your first time vaping and you want to spend as little as possible while trying it out.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a tank, an atomizer, and a clearomizer?
An atomizer is the general term for the part that turns e-liquid into vapor. A tank is the assembly that holds your e-liquid and houses the coil. A clearomizer is a clear tank with a pre-made, replaceable coil inside. Among hobbyists, the word "atomizer" on its own often refers to a rebuildable model that you build yourself.
What does sub-ohm mean?
Sub-ohm refers to a coil with a resistance below 1.0 ohm. Sub-ohm tanks pair with these lower-resistance coils to produce larger clouds and more intense flavor. They are one of the most popular tank styles and are designed for use with compatible high-wattage devices.
Which type of atomizer is best for a new vaper?
Many new vapers start with a disposable clearomizer or a replaceable coil-head tank because they are simple to use and budget-friendly. A replaceable coil-head tank is often the better long-term value, since you only replace the coil rather than the whole unit.
What is the difference between an RDA, RTA, and RDTA?
These are all rebuildable atomizers. An RDA (rebuildable dripping atomizer) requires you to drip e-liquid directly onto the coil and wick. An RTA (rebuildable tank atomizer) feeds the coil from an attached tank of e-liquid. An RDTA (rebuildable dripping tank atomizer) combines elements of both designs.
Do rebuildable atomizers really cost less over time?
They can. After the upfront cost of the atomizer and a build kit, your main ongoing supplies are wire and wicking material, which are inexpensive in bulk. The trade-off is the time and skill needed to build and wick your own coils, plus regular maintenance.
How often do I need to replace a pre-made coil?
It varies with how much you vape, your wattage, and the e-liquid you use. Many vapers replace a pre-made coil every one to two weeks, or sooner once the flavor turns muted or burnt. Priming a new coil before first use helps it last.
These products are intended only for adults 21+. Nicotine is an addictive chemical. This article is general product information and is not a smoking-cessation claim.