The Pod system, the Liquid system or disposable – what exactly is the difference?

Three names, three systems, plenty of confusion: the Pod system, the Liquid system and Disposable. All three basically do the same thing: the Liquid is heated up and steam comes out, but exactly how it works and how much it costs varies completely. In this article, we’ll explain the three systems as simply as possible and give you an example of how the costs add up over three months.

A brief explanation of the three systems

Liquid System

The Liquid system is, so to speak, the original. You have a tank which you fill yourself with Liquid. Inside is a coil (the atomiser head), which you need to replace regularly – usually after 5 to 7 refills. You can use any Liquid you like for this. Full control, but it does involve a bit more effort.

Pod System

With the Pod system, you simply slot in a ready-to-use Pod. The trick is that the coil is already inside the Pod. When the Pod is empty, you swap it out – and automatically have a fresh coil to hand. So you never have to buy or replace it separately. The device (the battery) stays the same, and you simply recharge it.

Disposable (single-use Vape)

The Disposable really does come with everything you need: battery, Liquid, coil – all permanently fitted. Once it’s empty, that’s it – the device is disposed of. You need next to no know-how to use it: unpack it, take a puff, and you’re done.

How much does each Pod system actually cost?

Here you can see a direct comparison of the three systems:

	Liquid System	Pod System	Disposable
Buy a device	approx. CHF 20–40 (one-off)	approx. CHF 10–15 (one-off)	included in the price
Running costs	Liquid + coils sold separately	Pods (coil included)	the whole device per use
Change the coil?	Yes, after about 5–7 fillings	No, it’s in Pod	is completely omitted
Do I need to top up?	Yes	Yes	No

Calculation example: Pod system versus disposable, 3 months

Let’s take Elfbar as an example. Suppose you need two refills a week. Here’s what the bill would look like for a Pod system over 12 weeks:

• Elfa Pro Kit (one-off): CHF 9.90
• 24 refills – Pods (CHF 8.90 for every 2 Podss): CHF 106.80
• Coils: you don’t need any extra ones; they’re already included in the Pods

Total: approximately CHF 116.70

With disposables, assuming the same usage (two devices per week at CHF 8.40 each), the figures look like this; that makes 24 devices over the 12 weeks:

Total: approximately CHF 201.60

Over three months, that works out to a difference of around CHF 85. Important: This is just an example based on Elfbar prices and an assumed usage. The figure will be different for other brands, or if you vape more or less.

The environment: a point that many people overlook

With the Pod or Liquid system, you can use the same battery for months. With the disposable version, the device is no longer usable once it has been used. Important to note: A disposable device does not belong in normal household waste, but must be disposed of as electronic waste. In Switzerland, this is straightforward at practically any electrical retailer – for example, at Fust or Media Markt, but now also at many local newsagents.

If you want to make things even easier for yourself, goodvibe offers a recycling scheme. Collect at least 10 empty e-cigarettes, send them back to us in a parcel, and you’ll receive a voucher worth CHF 15.–, which you can redeem on your next shop order.

Which system is right for you?

If you want to keep things as simple as possible and only vape occasionally, the Disposable is the way to go. If you vape regularly and are cost-conscious, it’s worth taking a look at the Pod system: no need to change the coil, yet it still has a rechargeable battery. And if you want maximum choice in terms of the Liquid and flavour, the Liquid system is the option for you – though it does require a little more maintenance. You’ll find all three variants in the goodvibe e-cigarette range, including from Elfbar or LOST MARY.

FAQ: Pod system, Liquid system and disposable

What is the difference between the Pod system and the Liquid system? With the Pod system, the coil is already fitted inside the Pod and is automatically replaced when it is changed. With the Liquid system, you refill the Liquid yourself and have to replace the coil separately.

Do I need to change the coil on the Pod system? No. Each new Pod comes with its own coil.

Is a Pod system cheaper than a disposable one? With regular use, calculations often show a difference in favour of the Pod system, as only Pods units are replaced rather than entire devices. The extent of this difference depends on usage and the product.

How do I dispose of an empty disposable correctly? Dispose of it as electronic waste, not in your household rubbish. Collection points are available at virtually every electrical retailer in Switzerland. In addition, goodvibe offers a recycling scheme where you can return at least 10 empty devices.

With the Liquid system, can I use any Liquid? Yes, Liquid systems are open-system designs, so you’ll find the widest choice of brands and flavours there.

Conclusion

The Pod system, the Liquid system and the disposable option differ primarily in terms of the effort involved, running costs and disposal. The Disposable is the easiest to use; the Pod system strikes a balance between low effort and lower costs over time; and the Liquid system offers you the greatest freedom when choosing your Liquid. You can find an overview of all three systems in the goodvibe’s range of e-cigarettes.