What Is an E-cigarette?

An e-cigarette, also known as an electronic cigarette or e-cig, is a device used to inhale flavored liquid which can contain nicotine. E-cigarettes are available in various sizes and designs tailored to suit individual preferences. The act of using an e-cigarette is called vaping, and those who use them are called vapers.

The modern e-cigarette was born in 2003, introducing nicotine delivery without the need to burn tobacco. The device soon found favor in China when it hit the market in 2004, and it wasn’t long before it was being sold around the world.

E-cigarettes, which are sometimes called e-cigs, might seem difficult to understand at first. There are so many different terms, models, and accessories that may not be clear for beginners.

In simple terms, an e-cigarette is an electronic device that heats a liquid containing flavoring and nicotine, amongst other ingredients. The resulting vapor is then inhaled by the vaper (the term used to describe those who use e-cigarettes).

What are the different types of e-cigarette?

There is not just one kind of e-cigarette; instead, they come in a number of forms and models. Some require e-liquid to be refilled (these are called Open System E-Cigarettes; our blu PRO™ Kit is an example of this). Others require tanks (these are called Closed System E- Cigarettes; our blu PLUS+™ Kit is an example of this).

Some e-cigarettes are designed to be used and then thrown away. These are called disposables, and they cannot be refilled or have their tank replaced. Once the e-liquid within a disposable has been used up, it cannot be used again and should be thrown away.

More advanced e-cigarettes are also available. These are called Mods, or Advanced Personal Vaporizers (APVs). They often feature modifications to their battery power or the size of the tank, appropriate to the vaper’s personal taste. Such products are not sold by blu and should only be sought by advanced vapers. Beginners are best suited to more convenient models, such as blu® Disposables, the blu PLUS+™ Kits, and the blu PRO™ Kits.

What parts make up an e-cigarette?

The constituent parts of an e-cigarette differ depending on the model you're using. Most use a battery, a heating mechanic, storage for the e-liquid, and a mouthpiece. Open System e-cigarettes may feature bigger batteries and heating mechanics than Closed System ones, with Closed System e-cigarettes always using a tank to house the e-liquid.