How to choose your first vape kit
The most important decision when buying your first vape kit is whether you want a prefilled or refillable device.
Prefilled pod kits like the Elf Bar Elfa and Aspire Gotek X come with sealed pods that you replace when empty. There is nothing to fill, no coils to change, and no settings to adjust. They are the simplest way to start vaping and the closest experience to using a disposable. The trade-off is that you are limited to the flavours and nicotine strengths available in the prefilled pod range for that device.
Refillable pod kits like the Vaporesso XROS 4 Mini and OXVA Xlim Go let you fill the pod with any bottled vape liquid you choose. This gives you access to hundreds of flavours from dozens of brands and is significantly cheaper to run over time. Refilling takes a few seconds and is no more complicated than squeezing a bottle into a fill port. For step-by-step instructions, see our how to vape guide.
Beyond that choice, look for a kit with draw activation (no button needed), a battery of at least 1,000mAh for all-day use, and compatibility with widely available replacement pods so you are never stuck for supplies.
What vape juice to use with a starter kit
All of the refillable starter kits on this page work best with nic salt e-liquid in a 50/50 PG/VG ratio at 10mg or 20mg nicotine. Nic salts deliver a smooth throat hit and fast nicotine absorption, which makes them the most satisfying choice for ex-smokers. If you are not sure which flavour to try first, fruit and menthol profiles are the most popular starting points. For more detail on choosing the right nicotine strength, see our nicotine strength guide. For a breakdown of the best brands, see our best e-liquid brands guide.
Browse the full range of vape kits to compare all available devices, or explore our nic salt vape juice to find a flavour.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best vape starter kit for beginners in 2026?
The Vaporesso XROS 4 Mini is the top-rated beginner vape kit for 2026 across the UK. It combines automatic wattage detection, COREX 2.0 pod technology for long-lasting flavour, adjustable airflow, and a 1,000mAh battery that charges in 30 minutes. It is simple enough for a complete beginner yet performs well enough that most vapers never need to upgrade.
Should I choose a prefilled or refillable starter kit?
Prefilled kits are the simplest option: no filling, no coil changes, just swap pods. Refillable kits give you access to more flavours, more nicotine strength options, and lower running costs. Most vapers start with prefilled and move to refillable once they are comfortable. Both types are included on this page.
What nicotine strength should a beginner use?
Most ex-smokers start with 20mg nic salt e-liquid, which provides a strong, satisfying nicotine hit similar to a cigarette. Lighter smokers or those who find 20mg too strong can try 10mg. For a full breakdown, see our nicotine strength guide.
How long does a vape starter kit battery last?
Most starter kits on this page have a 1,000mAh battery, which lasts a full day of moderate use (roughly equivalent to a pack of cigarettes). Lighter vapers may get a day and a half. The Vaporesso XROS 4 Nano (1,350mAh) offers the longest battery life on this list.
How much does it cost to start vaping?
Starter kits on this page range from under £10 to around £25. A 10ml bottle of nic salt vape juice costs £3 to £5 and typically lasts two to four days for a moderate vaper. After the initial kit purchase, ongoing costs are replacement pods (£5 to £8 for a pack) and vape juice, which works out significantly cheaper than smoking.
Do I need to buy anything else with a starter kit?
Most starter kits come with everything you need: the device, one or two pods, and a USB-C charging cable. For refillable kits, you will need to buy a bottle of nic salt e-liquid separately. Prefilled kits come with e-liquid already in the pod.
How do I set up a vape starter kit?
Charge the battery fully, fill or insert the pod, wait a few minutes for the wick to saturate, and inhale. For detailed step-by-step instructions covering both prefilled and refillable kits, see our how to vape beginner's guide.
Is vaping cheaper than smoking?
Yes. A pack-a-day smoker in the UK spends £420 to £540 per month on cigarettes. A moderate vaper using a refillable starter kit with nic salt vape juice spends roughly £25 to £45 per month on pods and e-liquid, a saving of over 90%.
