Prefilled pod vapes continue to be one of the most popular ways to vape in the UK, stepping in to replace disposables after the ban.

They're ideal if you’re switching from smoking, looking for an alternative to disposables, or exploring a simpler setup.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about prefilled pod systems, from how they work and the variety of flavours available to what makes them legal and environmentally friendlier than single-use vapes.

What Is a Prefilled Pod Vape?

A prefilled pod vape is a two-part system:

1. A reusable battery device
2. A pod filled with E-Liquid (sealed, with a built-in coil)

The pod clicks, rotates, or magnetically fits into the device. No filling, no coil changes, no complicated setup.

Components:

• Battery device: Rechargeable with Type-C charging port.
• Prefilled pod (with refill container): A prefilled pod contains 2ml E-Liquid and a built-in mesh coil. Some include a container that attaches to the pod to refill it, increasing the overall E-Liquid amount and puff count.
• Mouthpiece: Integrated into the prefilled pod.
• Airflow system: Either fixed airflow, auto-adjusting, or manually adjustable, depending on the model.

How Do Prefilled Pod Systems Work?

Using a prefilled pod kit is simple:

1. Unbox your device and remove any stoppers and stickers.
2. Insert the pod — prefilled pods are 2ml single pieces. Bigger systems may come in two or three parts that click together to form a bigger pod.
3. While it’s not crucial to the device’s operation, you can wait 10-15 seconds for the liquid to settle.
4. Inhale via the mouthpiece — most pods are draw-activated with no buttons.
5. Replace the pod once the flavour drops, the vapour becomes weaker, or it tastes burnt (quality pods shouldn’t burn early).
   

You keep reusing the device indefinitely. Only the pod needs replacing. This makes prefilled pod systems one of the most convenient, beginner-friendly, and mess-free ways to vape.

Watch the video to find out how refill containers attach to prefilled pods to create one large, prefilled pod system.

Prefilled Pods vs Refillable Pods vs Disposables

Guide–

Prefilled vs Refillable Vapes: How to Choose the Right Pod System

Who Are Prefilled Pods Suited For?

Prefilled pod kits are ideal for:

• Switching smokers who want simplicity
• Disposable vapers who want a more sustainable alternative
• Anyone who dislikes refilling or coil changes
• Vapers who want a strong, consistent flavour
• People who want instant flavour or nicotine strength changes
• Users wanting compact, reliable devices

Are Prefilled Pods Better for the Environment?

Yes, significantly compared to disposables. With prefilled pod systems:

• The battery is reused, not thrown away
• Only a small E-Liquid pod is discarded
• Many brands now use recyclable pod materials
• Charging reduces electronic waste

While refillable pod kits are the most eco-friendly, prefilled pods sit firmly between refillables and disposables in terms of sustainability.

Prefilled Pod Flavours and Variety

While flavour options are tied to each brand, most leading pod ranges include:

• Disposable-style favourites (fruits, menthols, ice blends)
• Tobacco and smooth classic profiles
• New seasonal or limited-edition flavours
• Multiple nicotine strengths

Because pods have built-in mesh coils, the flavour tends to remain consistent and strong from start to finish. 

Below, you can see a 10mg SMART MAX pod, a 0mg PRO 12 pod and a 20mg XL35 pod in various flavours.

Nicotine Strength Options

Most prefilled pod ranges offer:

• 20mg nicotine salts (standard for smooth MTL vaping).
• 10mg options for lighter vapers or those stepping down.
• 0mg options for vapers who want to eliminate nicotine or vape for flavour.

Switching strengths is instant; just change the pod.

Portability

Pod vapes vary in size depending on E-Liquid capacity and puff count:

• Smaller devices: Highly portable, lightweight, perfect for pockets
• Larger devices: Bigger pods, longer-lasting, better for at-home use

Many vapers keep two devices:

• One for on-the-go
• One for home or work

Because devices are affordable and reusable, owning kits for different purposes is common. However, we advise people to only stock the devices they need to prevent needless waste.

The IVG SAVR and Reload Mini, both small and compact, but have different shapes and sizes.

Reliability

Prefilled pod systems are designed for dependability:

• Rechargeable batteries last most of the day
• No coil changes
• Minimal leaking due to sealed pod construction
• Consistent wattage output
• Precision-engineered mesh coils improve flavour and vapour stability

Disadvantages of Prefilled Pods

Potential drawbacks include:

• Tied to one brand – while some prefilled vapes have more than 30 flavours per device, you can't use other branded pods with it. If you like to explore different flavour brands, prefilled pods might limit you.
• Slightly higher pod cost than bottled E-Liquid – if you want to save more money, refillable E-Liquids are cheaper.
• Nicotine variety – refillable E-Liquids tend to have more variety when it comes to nicotine options.
• Bigger pods may reduce portability – however, their large puff capacity usually means you don’t have to transport spares around with you.

Why Are More Vapers Choosing Prefilled Pod Systems?

• Cost-effective with a minimal learning curve
• Extremely convenient
• Better flavour & consistency
• Reusable device reduces waste
• Beginner-friendly
• No liquid handling
• Fully compliant with TPD regulations, unlike disposables.

Alternative Solutions: Refillable Pods, Mods & Sub-Ohm Devices

Prefilled pods are great, but they’re not the only option. Here’s how they compare to the other vape types.

1. Refillable Pod Kits

These use empty pods you fill manually with bottled E-Liquid.

Pros:

• Cheapest long-term option
• Wide choice of flavours
• Adjustable airflow and features
• Best balance between convenience and flexibility

Cons:

• Requires filling and pod changes
• Slightly higher learning curve
• More maintenance
• Higher initial device cost

Best for: Vapers who want lower running costs, more variety, and aren’t bothered by filling.

2. Vape Mods & Advanced Devices

These are larger, more powerful kits with separate tanks and coils.

Pros:

• Huge vapour production
• Maximum control (wattage, airflow)
• Long battery life
• Customisable experience

Cons:

• Bulky
• High maintenance
• Not beginner-friendly
• Not ideal for high-strength nicotine salts
• Higher initial device cost

Best for: Experienced vapers and hobbyists who want performance, customisation, and large clouds.

3. Sub-Ohm Vaping

A style of vaping that uses coils below 1.0Ω (Ohm) and high-power devices.

Pros:

• Big clouds
• Strong flavour
• Smooth inhale
• Best with shortfills and low nicotine

Cons:

• Not suitable for high nicotine
• Uses more E-Liquid
• Larger devices

Best for: Flavour chasers and experienced vapers.

Are Prefilled Pods TPD Compliant?

Yes, prefilled vapes are TPD compliant. All prefilled pods sold in the UK must meet the Tobacco and Related Products Regulations (TRPR/TPD). Key requirements include:

• Maximum pod capacity: 2ml of E-Liquid per prefilled pod (doesn't apply to refill containers)
• Maximum nicotine strength: 20mg/ml
• Child-resistant and tamper-evident packaging
• Approved ingredients only
• Mandatory health warning labels
  

How refill containers work:

Some devices have a 2ml prefilled pod but allow you to attach additional refill containers (e.g., 1 × 10ml) to keep the pod topped up. This is fully legal because:

• The prefilled pod itself remains ≤2ml, which is the part regulated under TPD.
• Extra liquid from refill bottles is treated as user-refillable E-Liquid, so it does not count towards the 2ml limit.
• Nicotine in the refill liquid must still comply with the ≤20mg/ml rule.

Any legally sold prefilled pod or device in the UK has already met these requirements, so users can safely enjoy vaping without breaking the law.

Are Prefilled Pods Being Banned?

No. The UK government’s disposable vape restrictions do not apply to reusable pod devices or their replaceable pods.

What has been phased out:

• Single-use disposables only

What stays legal:

• Prefilled pod kits
• Refillable pod kits
• Mods and tanks
  
• Bottled E-Liquid
• Nicotine salts and shortfills

Prefilled pods are viewed by government and public health bodies as a more sustainable alternative, which is why they are not included in any proposed bans.

Key Features to Look For When Buying Prefilled Pod Vapes

• Nicotine strength choice: some brands offer 0, 10 and 20 mg to allow vapers to step down.
• Battery capacity: the bigger the battery, the longer the battery life.
• Type-C charging: if the device doesn't have a charging port, it isn't legal.
• Mesh coil technology: all prefilled pods have built-in coils.
• Flavour range and quality: the more flavours the brand makes, the more you get to explore!
• Pod availability and cost: most pods are available at stores like Premier and Morrisons, but you can also get great deals online.
• Device size and portability: choose the device based on your preference, most product descriptions should have product sizes.
• Leak-resistant pod construction: E-Liquid leakages could damage your device, so look for devices with this technology.
• Airflow adjustment (if available): some devices will let you tailor how loose the airflow is.

How to Look After Your Prefilled Pod Kit

To maximise lifespan:

• Keep the device dry and clean
• Charge with a quality cable and avoid overnight charging if possible
• Store spare pods upright
• Avoid extreme heat (cars, windowsills, radiators)
• Replace pods when flavour drops
• Wipe the pod connection contacts occasionally

What is the Best Prefilled Pod Vape?

While all prefilled kits on the market vary, here’s a breakdown of all our IVG prefilled pod kits and refill pods, so you can make up your own mind:

*Prices are subject to change with seasonal offers and promotional discounts.

Guide – Which IVG Device Offers the Best Value for Money?  

Ready to buy a prefilled pod? Check out all IVG Starter Kits and find the right device for you.

FAQs

Can you refill a prefilled pod? No, they are sealed. Choose a refillable device if you want to add your own E-Liquid.

What nicotine is used in prefilled pods? Most use nicotine salt for a smoother inhale and quicker satisfaction.

Can I switch from smoking to prefilled pods? Yes, prefilled pod kits are among the easiest and most successful methods for helping smokers switch.

Are prefilled pods travel-friendly? Yes. Carry pods in hand luggage, keep your device in your checked baggage, and follow the airline's vaping rules.

Where can I buy prefilled pods? From online vape retailers, specialist vape shops and many UK convenience stores.

Can I vape DTL with a prefilled pod? No, prefilled pods are designed for MTL vapers. You may be able to vape DTL with a refillable pod, but mods and sub-ohm are your safest options. Read Our Guide to MTL vs DTL Vaping.

Do I need to consider VG/PG with prefilled pods? No, your nicotine salt comes pre-mixed, no worrying about getting your E-Liquid ratios right. However, you can learn more by reading our VG/PG guide.