Generally, disposable vapes are cheaper than conventional vapes. They have a low, upfront cost and do not incur additional maintenance costs.
Typically, the price ranges between $5-$20 per unit. The exact cost of disposable vapes varies from product to product depending on factors such as brand, size, design, and features.
Cost of Disposable Vapes vs Conventional Vapes
Disposable vapes have a single upfront cost. On the other hand, conventional vapes have ongoing maintenance costs, such as the cost of e-liquid refills, coil replacement, and battery replacement.
Here is the breakdown of disposable vs conventional vapes.
Disposable Vape Costs
As mentioned earlier, the upfront cost of disposable vapes ranges between $5 and $20 per vape. However, you must consider the cost of disposable vapes in the long run.
Since a disposable vape is not designed to refill or change the battery or the coil, you will need to replace it once it is depleted.
If you are a frequent vaper, the cost of buying disposable vapes can add up significantly.
For instance, let’s say you use one disposable vape per week, and the average cost of the vape is $10 per unit. In a month, your estimated cost will be about $40 and annually, it will be about $520.
If you are a heavy vaper, who uses a vape a day, it would cost you $70 per week and $3,640 annually.
Conventional Vape Costs
Conventional vapes range from $20 to $50 or more. Like disposable vapes, the exact cost varies depending on the brand, features, battery capacity, type of coil, and e-liquid capacity.
E-liquid costs range from $10 to $20 per bottle, depending on the flavor, nicotine strength, brand, and size.
How often you refill the e-liquid depends on your vaping habits and the size of the refill bottle you purchase. If you are a heavy vaper, you will need to refill more frequently than an occasional vaper.
The cost of coil replacement ranges between $10 and $20 per pack. The replacement frequency depends on vape usage and coil lifespan.
Comparatively, reusable vaping devices have a high upfront cost but may be more cost-effective in the long run. That said, disposable vapes are generally more affordable than conventional vapes.
Benefits of Disposable Vapes Over Conventional Vapes
Disposable vapes have several benefits over conventional vaping devices.
First, they have a simple, compact, and lightweight design, making them portable and easy to use. They are draw-activated. As such, they do not have exterior controls, and you do not have to worry about getting the customizations right.
Secondly, they are beginner-friendly. Whether you are new to vaping or you are a smoker looking to transition from traditional cigarette smoking, disposable vapes offer a hassle-free experience.
These types of vapes are discreet. You can carry them around or put them away in your pocket or bag without being conspicuous.
You can choose from various flavors and nicotine strengths to suit your needs and preference. Finally, they do not require maintenance. Therefore, other than the upfront cost, you do not incur additional costs.
Conversely, conventional vapes have certain benefits that may make them a better option than disposable vapes in certain circumstances.
For instance, conventional vapes may be a better option if you are a heavy vaper. Most have a higher e-juice capacity, which provides more puffs. That way, you do not need to refill the e-liquid too frequently.
You can also customize the vape settings for a more intense vaping experience. You can also choose from a variety of flavors and change up the e-liquid flavors as often as you want.
Furthermore, conventional vapes are more eco-friendly. Disposable vapes contribute to environmental pollution since you throw each unit after use.
Are Disposable Vapes Cheaper Than Cigarettes?
Disposable vapes are more convenient than cigarettes. However, are they cheaper?
On average, smokers take 8-12 puffs per lit cigarette. As such, a pack of 20 cigarettes translates to about 200 puffs.
Suppose you smoke 4 packs of cigarettes each week. According to 2023 research, the average cost of a pack of 20 cigarettes is $6.71. That would mean that your weekly expenditure for cigarettes is $26.82. And the annual cost would be $1395.68.
Comparatively, the average price of 200-300 puffs of disposable vapes is $7. The equivalent of 4 packets of cigarettes per week would be 4 disposable vapes. Therefore, your weekly expenditure on vapes would be $28. And the annual cost would be $1456.
It is safe to conclude that the weekly and annual cost of cigarettes is the same as that of vape, considering that you may get more puffs out of it.
Note that the cost of vaping or smoking may be higher or lower depending on the exact price of your preferred disposable vape or cigarettes.
That said, disposable vapes may be a better option than cigarettes. This is because they are safer for your health than cigarettes, yet they provide a smoother experience.
Cigarettes contain numerous chemicals, and various studies indicate that they have a higher risk of cancer. Furthermore, disposable vapes are more discreet to carry around and use.
Summary
Disposable vapes vary between $5-$20 per unit depending on the brand, design, number of puffs, and nicotine strength. They have an upfront cost but no maintenance costs.
Disposable vapes are an ideal option for beginners and light vapers. On the other hand, if you are a heavy or regular vaper, conventional refillable vapers are more cost-effective.
Conventional vapes cost more upfront. You also incur e-liquid refill and coil replacement maintenance costs. The exact replacement costs depend on your vaping frequency, the brand of the vaping device and replacement parts, and the overall lifespan of the components.
When it comes to smoking vs. disposable vapes, the costs are within the same range. However, disposable vapes may be cheaper due to the higher puff count. Vaping is also safer and more convenient.