What is an electronic cigarette?

An electronic cigarette , also known as an e-cigarette or vape , is an electronic device that simulates the act of smoking a traditional cigarette. Unlike a cigarette, it does not burn tobacco and therefore produces no smoke, tar, or carbon monoxide. The principle is to heat a liquid, called e-liquid, until it turns into vapor that the user inhales.

This device consists mainly of three elements:

1. A battery : It provides the energy needed to heat the heating element. Its capacity (expressed in mAh) determines how long it can be used before needing to be recharged.
2. A clearomizer (or atomizer) : This is the part that contains the e-liquid reservoir and the coil.
3. A coil : A small metal filament surrounded by cotton. When the battery is activated, the coil heats up, vaporizing the e-liquid soaked in the cotton.

Vaping has become a popular alternative for many people looking to reduce or quit smoking. In Switzerland , e-cigarettes are widely recognized as a harm reduction tool. They offer precise control over nicotine levels and a vast array of flavors, making the experience far more customizable than traditional cigarettes.

How to choose your electronic cigarette? The beginner's guide

Choosing your first e-cigarette can seem daunting given the multitude of models available. Don't panic! This guide is here to help you find the Swiss e-cigarette kit for your needs. Here are the essential criteria to consider.

1. Your smoking profile

This is the most important starting point.

• Occasional smoker (fewer than 10 cigarettes/day): A simple and compact model like an e-cigarette pod will be ideal. These devices are easy to use, require little maintenance, and are perfect for moderate use with medium nicotine levels.
• Moderate smoker (10-20 cigarettes/day): A slightly more advanced starter kit, such as a vape pen or pod system with better battery life, will be more suitable. It will offer you more vapor and a battery that will last all day.
• Heavy smoker (more than 20 cigarettes/day): You'll need reliable and durable equipment. A box mod kit with good battery life and a large-capacity tank is recommended. This will allow you to vape without constantly refilling the device or tank, even with higher nicotine levels initially.

2. The type of inhalation: Indirect (MTL) or Direct (DTL)?

• Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) Inhalation: This is the closest sensation to that of a traditional cigarette. You first draw the vapor into your mouth, then inhale it into your lungs. This is the recommended style for a beginner's e-cigarette .
• Direct Lung Inhalation (DTL): Here, you inhale the vapor directly into your lungs, similar to using a hookah. This produces a much larger volume of vapor and a smoother throat hit. This style is generally recommended for experienced vapers.

3. Ease of use

To begin with, opt for a simple model. All-in-one kits and pod systems are perfect. They often have automatic settings and require minimal maintenance (changing the coil or cartridge). You can explore more complex models later if you wish.

4. Battery life and power

Battery life is measured in milliampere-hours (mAh). The higher the number, the longer you can vape. For a full day, aim for at least 1500 mAh. Power, measured in watts (W), affects the amount of vapor produced. For a beginner with mouth-to-lung (MTL) vaping, a power output between 10W and 20W is more than enough.

In short, for your first purchase, look for a beginner pod-style e-cigarette kit or a small box mod kit with an MTL clearomizer. Feel free to consult our product descriptions to find the one that best suits your needs.

The advantages of electronic cigarettes

Choosing a Swiss-made e-cigarette offers numerous advantages over traditional cigarettes. Here are the main recognized benefits.

• A less harmful alternative: The main difference lies in the absence of combustion. Without combustion, there is no tar, carbon monoxide, or the thousands of other toxic substances present in cigarette smoke. This is why public health authorities consider it a valuable aid in quitting smoking.
• Total control over nicotine: E-liquids are available with different nicotine strengths (from 0 mg/ml to 20 mg/ml). This allows the user to choose a level suited to their dependence and to gradually reduce it, at their own pace, until complete withdrawal if desired.
• No more unpleasant odors: Say goodbye to the smell of stale tobacco clinging to clothes, hair, car, and home. E-cigarette vapor dissipates in seconds, leaving behind only a light, pleasant fragrance, if the e-liquid is flavored.
• An endless array of flavors: The world of vaping is a playground for the taste buds. From classic tobacco flavors to fresh fruits, indulgent desserts, and menthol drinks, there's something for everyone. This diversity helps break free from the single, monotonous taste of tobacco.
• More economical in the long run: Although the initial investment in an e-cigarette kit may seem higher than a pack of cigarettes, the long-term savings are considerable. Consumables (e-liquids, coils) cost significantly less than tobacco.

Types of electronic cigarettes

There are three main families of e-cigarettes on the market.

The Pods

The pod system is the simplest and most popular model for beginners. Ultra-compact and lightweight, it consists of a battery and a clip-on cartridge containing the coil and e-liquid. Ideal for mouth-to-lung (MTL) vaping and very effective with nicotine salt e-liquids, it offers an excellent alternative for quitting smoking without any hassle.

Box Mods

Box mods are more powerful, offer longer battery life, and are more customizable. They consist of a rectangular battery (the "box") and a clearomizer that screws onto it. They allow you to adjust the power (watts), temperature, and other parameters for a personalized vaping experience. They are often used for direct-to-lung (DTL) vaping and producing large vapor clouds.

Vape Pens (Tube Format)

Halfway between a pod and a box mod, the "pen" or "tube" format is an excellent option. Cylindrical in shape like a pen, it's more discreet than a box mod but generally offers better battery life and performance than an entry-level pod. Simple to use, it strikes a great balance for those who want a quality vape without the hassle of complex settings.