By Niklas Timper · Smokez Würzburg · last updated: July 2026
Key points at a glance
- For beginners and those switching from smoking, a pod system is best: small, simple, and with a cigarette-like draw (MTL).
- Nicotine strength: heavy smokers usually start with 20 mg/ml nicotine salt, moderate smokers with around 10 mg/ml.
- Legal limits are a maximum of 20 mg/ml nicotine and no more than 10 ml per refill bottle.
- Disposable vapes are good for trying out, but in the long run, they are more expensive and less environmentally friendly than a rechargeable system.
- At Smokez, our team in Würzburg will advise you on making the switch – honestly and without sales pressure.
Not all e-cigarettes are the same. Especially for those wanting to switch from smoking, you quickly face pods, coils, mg values, and dozens of devices. In our store on Kaiserstraße, we advise people switching and beginners daily – and in almost all cases, the simplest path leads through the same device. This guide shows you which one, with what strength, and what else you should pay attention to. A note beforehand: E-cigarettes are exclusively for adult smokers aged 18 and over.
Which Vape Type Suits You? Disposable, Pod, or Mod
Broadly, there are three categories:
- Disposable Vape: Ready to use immediately, nothing to refill. Ideal for first-time use, but most expensive per puff. You can find a selection among disposable vapes.
- Pod System: Compact, rechargeable device with interchangeable pods or coils. The best compromise between simplicity and cost – our recommendation for beginners. See Pod Systems.
- Mod: Larger, more powerful, more settings. More for advanced users. See Mods.
For Beginners and Switchers: The Pod System
If you're switching from smoking, you want a device that feels like a cigarette – meaning a tight draw (technically MTL, "mouth to lung," i.e., first into the mouth, then into the lungs). Pod systems are built exactly for this: switch on, draw, done. No tinkering, no wattages. The matching pods and liquids are available in many flavors.
What Nicotine Strength? How to Find the Right One
When switching, the right strength determines whether you are satisfied. For pod systems, nicotine salt is usually used because it is smooth even at higher doses. As a guide:
- Heavy smokers (e.g., a pack/day or more): around 20 mg/ml.
- Moderate smokers: around 10 mg/ml.
- Occasional smokers: about 6 mg/ml.
Too little nicotine often leads to reaching for a cigarette again – it's better to start a bit higher and reduce later. You can find ready-made strengths, for example, with Elfliq 20 mg and Elfliq 10 mg. If you don't want nicotine, opt for nicotine-free pods.
Buy Legally and Safely
When purchasing, pay attention to the legal limits: a maximum of 20 mg/ml nicotine and no more than 10 ml per refill bottle. We have summarized how to recognize a reputable shop in the guide Buying Shisha Tobacco & Vapes Safely Online.
Care and Handling: What You Should Know
- Change coil/pod: If it tastes burnt, the atomizer is used up – replace the pod.
- Prime new pods: After filling, wait 2–3 minutes before taking your first draw. This prevents the "burnt taste."
- Charging: Preferably use the included cable and do not leave it permanently connected to the charger.
- Refill liquid: Do not overfill and keep air channels clear.
Disposable Vape or Rechargeable?
For a first try, a disposable vape is okay. However, for regular vaping, a rechargeable pod system is significantly cheaper – and produces less waste. We have explained everything about proper disposal and returning old devices in the guide Returning Disposable Vapes – Mandatory from July 2026.
How Smokez Helps You Switch
The switch works best with the right device and the correct nicotine strength. That's exactly what we'll find with you – in our store in Würzburg or by phone. Honest advice, without pushing the most expensive device on you.
Smokez – Niklas Timper e.K.
Kaiserstraße 18
97070 Würzburg
Phone: 0931 45329600
Frequently Asked Questions from Vape Beginners
Which e-cigarette is best for beginners?
A pod system. It's small, easy to use, and has a cigarette-like draw (MTL) – ideal for beginners and those switching.
Which nicotine strength should I choose when switching?
As a guide: heavy smokers around 20 mg/ml, moderate around 10 mg/ml, occasional smokers about 6 mg/ml nicotine salt. It's better to start a bit higher and reduce later.
What is the difference between MTL and DTL?
MTL ("mouth to lung") is the tight, cigarette-like draw – ideal for beginners. DTL ("direct to lung") is the direct lung draw for large vapor clouds and is more for advanced users.
Disposable vape or pod system – which is better?
For trying out, a disposable vape is practical. For regular vaping, a rechargeable pod system is cheaper and more environmentally friendly.
Conclusion
For starting out, you don't need a complicated device: A pod system with the right nicotine strength will get you to your goal most easily and affordably. Pay attention to legal products and get advice when switching. Browse our pod systems and liquids – or visit our store in Würzburg.
