Vape coils are the heart of any vaping device. They are the heating elements that vaporize e-liquid and influence everything from flavor quality to vapor production. Choosing the right coil can dramatically change your vaping experience. In this guide, we break down the different vape coil types, with a special focus on the comparison between mesh and regular coils.

What Are Vape Coils and How Do They Work?

A vape coil is a piece of resistance wire wrapped into a coil shape and connected to a wicking material (usually cotton). When the device is activated, the battery sends current through the coil, heating it. This heat vaporizes the e-liquid soaked in the wick, producing vapor for inhalation.

Coil Structure and Heating Mechanism

Coils vary in:

• Ohm Resistance: Low-ohm (sub-ohm) coils produce more vapor, while high-ohm coils are better for mouth-to-lung (MTL) vaping.
• Wattage Range: Each coil has a recommended wattage range to avoid dry hits or burning.
• Material: Common materials include Kanthal, stainless steel, nickel, and titanium.

Coil Lifespan and Maintenance

• Most coils last 1–2 weeks depending on usage and liquid type.
• Replace coils when flavor diminishes or you taste burning.
• Regular cleaning can extend coil life slightly.

Overview of Vape Coil Types

There are two major categories of vape coils that dominate the market today: regular coils and mesh coils.

Regular (Wire) Coils

• Made from a single strand of wire wrapped into a spiral.
• Produce a concentrated heat point.
• Slower to heat, and may produce less vapor.
• Inconsistent flavor over time due to uneven heating.

Mesh Coils

• Made from a flat sheet of perforated metal.
• Heats evenly and faster than wire coils.
• Offers a larger surface area, resulting in more vapor and better flavor.
• Reduces chances of dry hits.

Mesh vs Regular Coils: Key Differences

Let’s break down the primary differences between mesh and regular coils.

Heating Efficiency and Vapor Production

• Mesh coils heat more evenly, leading to faster and more consistent vapor production.
• Regular coils may have hot spots and slower ramp-up times.

Flavor Quality and Consistency

• Mesh coils are known for superior flavor retention.
• Regular coils can offer decent flavor but may degrade faster.

Longevity and Durability

• Mesh coils tend to last longer due to their structure.
• Regular coils are more prone to burning and uneven wear.

E-liquid Consumption Rates

• Mesh coils consume more e-liquid due to higher vapor output.
• Regular coils are more conservative but produce less dense clouds.

Sub-Ohm vs MTL Coils: Where Mesh and Regular Fit In

• Sub-ohm vapers often prefer mesh coils for their high vapor output and direct-lung hit.
• MTL vapers usually stick with regular coils, which provide a tighter draw and lower wattage performance.

Which Coil Is Better for You?

For Beginners

• Start with regular coils to understand your flavor and vapor preferences.
• Some newer mesh pod systems are beginner-friendly as well.

For Cloud Chasers

• Mesh coils are ideal for creating large, dense clouds with minimal delay.

For Flavor Enthusiasts

• Mesh coils generally provide cleaner, more intense flavors due to even heating.

Choosing the Right Coil Material

• Kanthal: Most common, durable, and easy to use.
• Stainless Steel: Supports both wattage and temperature control.
• Nickel & Titanium: Used for temperature control; not suitable for wattage mode.

Each material has pros and cons depending on your device and vaping style.

Best Devices That Use Mesh and Regular Coils

Mesh Coil Devices

• SMOK Nord 5
• GeekVape Aegis X
• Voopoo Drag S

Regular Coil Devices

• Innokin Endura T20
• Aspire Nautilus
• Joyetech eGo AIO

These devices cater to both casual users and enthusiasts, offering diverse vaping experiences.

Common Coil-Related Issues and Fixes

• Dry Hits: Avoid by priming the coil and not exceeding wattage limits.
• Flooding: Don’t overfill your tank; use proper inhale techniques.
• Spitting: Usually due to coil oversaturation; reduce e-liquid or wattage.

Expert Opinions on Mesh vs Regular Coils

Professional reviewers and experienced vapers agree:

• Mesh coils win for flavor and cloud production.
• Regular coils are simpler, better suited for low-wattage and discreet vaping.

Reddit forums and vape communities overwhelmingly recommend mesh for sub-ohm vapers, while MTL fans often prefer the traditional draw of regular coils.

FAQs: Vape Coil Types

1. Are mesh coils better than regular coils?
Generally yes, especially for flavor and vapor production.

2. Do mesh coils use more e-liquid?
Yes, due to their higher surface area and faster heating.

3. How long do vape coils last?
Most last 7–14 days, depending on usage and liquid.

4. Can I use mesh coils for mouth-to-lung vaping?
Some MTL mesh coils exist, but traditional wire coils are more common for MTL.

5. Are mesh coils more expensive?
Slightly, but their longevity often balances out the cost.

6. Can I switch coil types in the same device?
Only if the device supports both coil styles and wattage ranges.

Conclusion

Understanding vape coil types is essential for getting the most out of your vaping experience. Whether you’re chasing clouds or savoring flavor, choosing the right coil—mesh or regular—can elevate your vape game. Always consider your device, style, and preferences before selecting your next coil type.