What's All the Vaping Confusion About?

The world of vaping has expanded in the last decade, and many new and veteran users alike struggle to keep up with evolving terms and complex electronic devices, some of which are completely modifiable. It can be overwhelming for new users to decide what type of device to use, and veterans might be tempted to make their own modifications without essential safety information. Though the technological advances are happening quickly, users can benefit by learning basic terminology and finding reliable ongoing information sources.

Basic Vaping Terms and Ideas

The variety of devices available has widened rapidly. This is great for the market but can also lead to expensive, or even painful, mistakes. Part of the problem is that some terms sound the same. For example, many new users step into their first store and simply ask for a vaporizer or an e-cig. While this can lead to the correct result, the fact is that “vaporizer” refers to a wide range of devices that turn material into inhalable vapor. Some of them include large plastic bags that fill with cool vapor for a slow, mellow inhale that doesn’t irritate the lungs. While these are great devices, they are typically not what a first-time user is looking for to try vaping.

Similarly, many new users are unfamiliar with the parts of the vape pen or device and the consumable materials they use. The cartridge, for example, refers to the container for the e-juice that is vaporized. The e-liquid itself can come in a cartridge or be purchased separately for refillable cartridges. When purchasing a vaping device, new users will need to choose between a refillable device or a typically cheaper disposable device. The different types will vary widely as to flavor, delivery, size and cost, so understanding which is which will keep users from spending money on something they don’t need.

For veteran users who are working on their own MODs and builds, this confusion can cause even more problems. Without reliable knowledge about resistance and battery outputs, devices can be ruined and even catch fire or explode.

Knowledge Is Power

Fortunately, just as the technology has grown, so have the information resources available. New and experienced users alike will want to find information sources that provide fresh information so as technology changes, they will quickly and conveniently hear about updates and new devices. Here are some of the best ways to learn concrete information about vaping and vaping devices:

Internet Forums

Multiple discussion forums have sprung up about vaping and devices. Forums are a great way to see questions others have had and the answers they received, and news and information is generally shared freely in the communities. Here are some of the most popular vaping forums:

Vaping Underground: This is a fairly new forum with a casual, eager-to-help atmosphere. It’s a little smaller than some of the others, but still large enough to provide a solid informational base. It includes discussion topics for beginner and advanced vaping topics and many device recommendations and reviews.

E-Cigarette Forum (ECF): This is the largest vaping forum on the Internet with over 250,000 members and includes discussions on virtually all vaping topics, including reviews and tutorials. Since the forum has been active since 2007, there is a huge archive of information - use of the search feature is highly recommended for specific questions, and posting does require registration and 10 accepted posts in the “New Members” section of the site.

Other Information Sources

Of course, it’s even more fun to meet up with other vapers in-person. There are at least five large vaping conventions each year, held in different places around the country. Conventions offer expert panels and device demonstrations, making them a great way to get a wide range of knowledge about new and upcoming vaping technology.

On a day-to-day basis, some of the best resources are likely right in your own city. Vaping stores are opening constantly throughout many cities, and the owners and staff are typically great resources for new information about how products work and upcoming features. Reading online reviews beforehand can help new users find a reputable vaping store for great in-person guidance on buying the best vaping device.

Don’t Be Out of the Loop

It’s understandable that there's so much confusion about vaping and the available vaping products. After all, the devices themselves range from simple to hand-modified, complicated electronics. With the wide spread growth and distribution of of vaping technology, it’s easy to miss key informational bits, or be so overwhelmed you've no idea where to start. By vapers familiarizing themselves with key terms and updated information, they can avoid wasting money or damaging their equipment.