Last updated: 29 October 2026. Comparison by Cloud Express, based on the product information we publish for each device. We sell both types.
Pod vapes come in two types: open pod and closed pod. Both are small, rechargeable devices, but they work differently, cost different amounts to run, and suit different people. This guide explains the difference so you can pick the right one.
The short answer
- Closed pod: pre-filled pods you click in and throw away when empty. No refilling, no coils. Best for simplicity.
- Open pod: a refillable cartridge you fill with any e-liquid. More flavour and nicotine choice, and usually cheaper to run. Best for control.
Open pod vs closed pod at a glance
| Closed pod | Open pod | |
|---|---|---|
| How it works | Pre-filled pod clicks in; replace when empty | Fill a refillable cartridge with your own e-liquid |
| Refilling | None | You refill the cartridge |
| Coils | Built into each pod | Replace the coil or cartridge when flavour fades |
| Flavour choice | Limited to that pod brand’s flavours | Any compatible e-liquid |
| Nicotine strength | Set by the pod (often 20mg) | You choose by picking the e-liquid |
| Running cost | Higher per ml | Usually lower per ml |
| Best for | Beginners and people who want zero fuss | Vapers who want flavour choice and lower running costs |
Closed pod: pros and cons
- Pros: nothing to fill, no coil changes, very little to go wrong, easy to carry.
- Cons: you’re limited to the pods your device accepts, and pods cost more per ml than bottled e-liquid.
Popular closed pod devices we stock include the Syokpod V2 and V3, NCIG Cube, RELX Infinity 2 Plus, ASDF NEURA and Akso Supa Mini. Some, like the Syokpod V2, accept several pod brands. Pods are in Closed Pods.
Open pod: pros and cons
- Pros: any flavour, your choice of nicotine strength, lower running cost, and you can tune the vape with coil resistance and airflow.
- Cons: you need to refill, and replace coils or cartridges from time to time.
Popular open pod devices we stock include the ELFBAR JoinOne, Aladdin Pro GT, Aspire Cloudflask S, NexGen Pro and Syokbar Target. Cartridges and coils are in Cartridges & OCC Coils, and e-liquids in E-Liquids.
Coil resistance in one minute
On open pod cartridges, lower resistance (around 0.4–0.6Ω) gives a warmer draw and more vapour, and suits freebase e-liquid. Higher resistance (around 0.8–1.0Ω) gives a tighter mouth-to-lung draw and suits saltnic e-liquid.
What about disposables?
Disposables are the simplest of all: no charging setup, no refilling, and you replace the whole device when it runs out. They’re good for trying a flavour or for travel. See Disposable Pods.
Which should you choose?
- New to vaping, or want zero fuss? Start with a closed pod device.
- Want more flavours, your own nicotine strength, or lower running costs? Go for an open pod device.
- Not sure? WhatsApp us at 019-620 6083 and tell us what you vape now. We’ll suggest a device.
More guides: how to refill an open pod, 0.4Ω vs 0.6Ω vs 0.8Ω coils, how long a disposable vape lasts and the full pod vape guide for Malaysia.
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Nicotine is addictive. For adults aged 18 and over only.
