How Long Should a Vape Last? Factors That Affect Lifespan

How Long Should a Vape Last? Factors That Affect Lifespan

Matthew Abercrombie |

What to expect from your kit — and how to make it go the distance

One of the most common questions we get in the shop is:
“How long is this vape going to last me?”

And honestly, I get it. Whether you’re buying a disposable, a pod kit, or a full-on mod setup, you want to know if it’s worth your money — and how to keep it running as long as possible.

The answer? It depends. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but there are a few key things that affect the lifespan of your vape — and today, we’re breaking them all down.

🔋 How Long Does a Disposable Vape Last?

Disposables like the Lost Mary BM600 or IVG 2400 are designed for short-term use only. You puff until it runs out of either battery or e-liquid — whichever comes first.

On average:

  • 600 puff disposables = 1–2 days for moderate users
  • 2400 puff disposables = 3–5 days (depends on your draw length and frequency)

Factors that affect it:

  • Chain-vaping burns through juice quicker
  • Taking longer, deeper puffs drains the battery faster
  • Cold weather can reduce battery efficiency

If you’re burning through a disposable a day, it might be time to look at refillables. They’ll save you a fortune in the long run.

🔁 How Long Should a Pod Kit Last?

If you’re using a refillable pod kit (like a Uwell Caliburn or OXVA Xlim), you’ve got a longer-term setup — but there are still parts that wear out.

Average lifespan:

  • The device itself: 6–18 months (or more with good care)
  • Pods/cartridges: 5–10 refills before flavour drops off
  • Coils (if replaceable): 5–14 days depending on usage and juice

Tips to make it last:

  • Don’t let your pod run dry — that’s a fast way to burn your coil
  • Clean your contacts with a cotton bud if things get leaky
  • Use the right PG/VG juice ratio (most pods prefer 50/50)

⚙️ What About Mods and Tanks?

Advanced vapers using sub-ohm tanks and external battery mods usually enjoy longer hardware life, especially with proper maintenance.

Expected lifespan:

  • Mods: 1–2 years or more (batteries may need replacing)
  • Tanks: 6–12 months before seals or threads start to go
  • Coils: 5–10 days on average — shorter with sweet or dark juices
  • Batteries: 6–12 months before they lose efficiency

How to extend it:

  • Store batteries safely in a case
  • Clean and rewick tanks regularly
  • Avoid dropping or overcharging your mod
  • Use sweet juices sparingly — they’re coil killers

🔍 Other Factors That Affect Vape Lifespan

No matter the device, here are a few universal things that make a difference:

1. E-Liquid Choice

Sweet, dark, or creamy juices gunk up coils quicker than clear, fruity ones. It’s not a dealbreaker — just be ready to change coils more often.

2. How Often You Vape

It sounds obvious, but if you’re puffing every five minutes, nothing’s going to last as long — battery, juice, coil, the lot.

3. How You Store It

Don’t leave your vape:

  • In a hot car (bad for the battery)
  • On the edge of the sink (yes, we’ve seen this)
  • Rolling around with keys and coins

4. Cleaning and Maintenance

A quick clean now and then keeps your contacts working, flavour fresh, and pods/tanks in good shape.

There’s no magic number for how long your vape should last — but if you look after it, use the right juice, and treat it like a tool (not a toy), you’ll get your money’s worth and then some.

Whether you’re after something short-term and sweet or a long-term daily driver, we’ve got plenty of options — and we’re always happy to talk you through what fits your habits best.

Got questions about getting the most out of your current kit? Come see us — we’ve probably seen the same issue before.

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