Pre-Filled Pod Kits vs Refillable Vape Kits: Which is better?

Choosing your next vape kit can be confusing, especially after the UK’s ban on single-use disposables. Two major options dominate the rechargeable pod space: pre-filled pod systems and refillable pod kits. Each has its own pros and trade-offs. We’ll help you understand the difference and decide which suits your habits, budget, and lifestyle.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

• What pre-filled pod systems are (with examples)

• What pod vape kits are (with examples)

• Side-by-side comparison across cost, convenience, flavour, waste, and user type

• Tips for use and maintenance

• Which is the better choice for you

What Are Pre-Filled Pod Systems?

Pre-filled pod systems, sometimes called closed pod systems, are devices where the pod comes factory-filled with e-liquid and a built-in coil. You simply slot the pod in, vape until it’s empty, and replace it. There’s no need to refill or change coils manually.

Examples include:

• Pixl Duo 6K – a rechargeable device that uses pre-filled pods you swap out when finished

• Lost Mary BM6000 pre-filled pod vape kit – a system that comes with sealed pods ready to use

In these devices, the pod and coil are combined. Once the e-liquid is used up or the coil wears out, you discard the pod and insert a fresh one.

Key characteristics:

• Very simple and low maintenance

• Sealed pods reduce leakage risk

• Fixed flavour and nicotine options limited to what’s available for that system

• Each new pod includes a fresh coil, which adds to cost over time

What Are Pod Vape Kits (Refillable Pod Kits)?

Pod vape kits, also known as refillable vapes, pod kits or just reusable vapes, use replacement pods that the user fills with any e-liquid of their choice. The kit includes a small battery device and one or more refillable pods. You fill the pod manually through a small port and top it up when needed. Some have replaceable coils, while others require the entire pod to be changed when the coil burns out.

Examples include:

• Vaporesso XROS Pro 2 pod vape kit

• OXVA Xlim Go 2 pod vape kit

With refillable systems, you have more control over your experience. You can choose your own e-liquid, nicotine strength, and flavour, making it ideal for vapers who like variety.

Key characteristics:

• Fill with your preferred e-liquid

• Replace pods or coils periodically

• Slightly more maintenance than pre-filled systems

• Greater flexibility and long-term cost savings

Detailed Look: Vaporesso XROS Pro 2 Pod Kit

Let’s dive into what makes the XROS Pro a favourite amongst vapers across the country.

Specs & Features

• Battery: ~ 2000 mAh built-in battery

• Output / modes: Up to ~ 30 W when used with the 0.4 Ω pod; also includes “Normal” and “Eco” modes for other pods

• Pod capacity: 2 ml in TPD regions (3 ml in non-TPD markets)

• Pod type & refill: Top-fill design, clamshell style (snap off mouthpiece to reveal fill port)

• Coil / pod resistances: 0.4 Ω (mesh) pods (and compatibility with other XROS pods, e.g. 0.6 Ω / 1.0 Ω)

• Activation: Draw-activated or button firing (toggleable)

• Airflow: Adjustable airflow slider built into device

• Other features: Lock switch to disable fire button, LED battery indicator, fast USB-C charging

Performance & User Notes

• The 0.4 Ω pods enable a more “RDL” (restricted direct lung) style, giving richer vapour and more flavour when used with lower-resistance pods.

• In “Normal” or “Eco” modes (used with higher resistance pods), the device auto-adjusts power to protect coil longevity and battery.

• The clamshell top-fill design is one of its strong points: easy to use, less risk of leakage, minimal mess.

• For many users, flavour and coil life are excellent. Some reviews mention the coil longevity impresses compared to earlier versions of XROS pods.

• As with many mesh coil systems, it can “guzzle” e-liquid, especially at higher settings or in open airflow modes.

In short, the XROS Pro blends flexibility, good battery life, and user-friendly refill features, making it a top option for vapers wanting performance without the fuss.

Detailed Look: OXVA Xlim Go 2 Pod Kit

Now let’s turn to the OXVA offering and see what it brings to the table.

Specs & Features

• Battery: 1500 mAh built-in battery

• Output / range: 5 to 30 W auto power adjustment

• Pod capacity: 2 ml in TPD regions (3 ml in non-TPD)

• Coil / pod: The kit includes a 0.8 Ω Xlim V3 top-fill pod, compatible with OXVA’s Xlim pod series (V3, EZ, etc.)

• Material & build: PCTG + IML construction

• Activation: Inhale (draw activated), no buttons required

• Airflow: Side airflow control slider allows tuning between a tighter MTL feel and a freer RDL draw

• Battery indicator: Starry breathing LED light that shows battery status via different colours (green / blue / red)

• Charging: USB-C fast charging (5 V / 2 A)

Performance & User Notes

• Its power range (5–30 W) and pod / coil compatibility make it versatile for both MTL (mouth-to-lung) and light RDL styles.

• The top-fill pods reduce mess, and OXVA’s design emphasises leak resistance.

• The starry breathing LED is a nice touch — it gives visual feedback without being harsh or distracting.

• The battery is strong enough for many users to get a full day or more of vaping before a recharge.

• Because it adjusts power automatically based on pod resistance, it’s beginner friendly — you don’t need to mess with wattage settings much.

• Some users note that the draw can be very smooth, and coil life is solid under normal use.

The Xlim Go 2 is a balanced, reliable choice that offers more flexibility than prefilled systems while staying user friendly.

Head-to-Head: Pre-Filled vs Refillable Pod Kits

Cost and Value

At first glance, pre-filled pods may seem cheaper because of their lower upfront price. However, the ongoing costs add up. A pack of pre-filled pods can cost £4 to £6 for only a few millilitres of liquid. In comparison, a 10ml bottle of e-liquid for a refillable pod kit can cost roughly the same and provide several refills.

If you vape regularly, refillable kits usually save you money in the long term. You only replace coils or pods occasionally, rather than every time you finish vaping.

For light or casual vapers who prioritise ease and convenience, the difference may not be significant. But for daily users, refillable kits offer far better value.

Flavour, Nicotine, and Flexibility

Refillable pod kits are all about freedom of choice. You can mix and match flavours, experiment with different nicotine strengths, and try new brands whenever you like. Whether you prefer nic salts for smooth hits or freebase e-liquid for a stronger throat feel, refillable systems give you full control.

Pre-filled systems, on the other hand, are limited to the flavours and nicotine strengths made for that specific device. If you find a flavour you love, this can be a non-issue, but for vapers who enjoy experimenting, refillables are far more versatile.

Waste, Sustainability, and the Disposable Ban

Environmental concerns are playing a big role in the shift toward reusable systems. With the UK moving to ban disposable vapes, both pre-filled and refillable pod kits offer more sustainable alternatives.

However, pre-filled pods still generate more waste than refillable systems since each pod includes plastic and a coil that gets thrown away after use. Refillable pod kits reduce waste because you reuse the same hardware and only replace coils or pods occasionally.

If you care about reducing waste, refillable systems are the greener choice.

Which One Should You Choose?

The right option depends on your vaping style and priorities. Use this quick checklist to help decide:

• New to vaping or want maximum simplicity? Choose a pre-filled pod system.

• Vape regularly and want to save money long-term? Go for a refillable kit.

• Love trying new flavours and nicotine levels? Refillable kits offer more flexibility.

• Hate dealing with e-liquid or mess? Stick with pre-filled pods.

• Care about sustainability? Refillable systems create less waste.

Many people actually use both. A refillable kit is perfect for everyday use at home, while a pre-filled pod device is handy for travel or nights out.

Tips for Better Vaping

To get the best performance from either type of pod system, keep these tips in mind:

• Don’t let pods run completely dry to avoid burnt hits.

• After filling a new pod, let it sit for a few minutes so the coil absorbs the liquid.

• Use e-liquids that suit your device’s power level and coil resistance.

• Replace pods or coils as soon as flavour weakens or tastes burnt.

• Keep the contacts between pod and device clean for consistent performance.

• Store pods upright to reduce the risk of leakage.

Final Thoughts

Both pre-filled pod systems and refillable pod kits have their place in the modern vaping world. Pre-filled systems are simple, clean, and convenient, making them great for beginners or occasional vapers. Refillable kits take a little more effort but reward you with lower costs, more flavour options, and a more sustainable setup.

If you’re just starting out, a pre-filled system like the Pixl Duo 6K or Lost Mary BM6000 is an easy entry point. Once you’re comfortable, moving to a refillable device such as the Vaporesso XROS Pro 2 or OXVA Xlim Go 2 can give you more control and a better long-term experience.

Ultimately, both serve the same purpose: giving you a smooth, enjoyable vape. The right choice comes down to your habits, your budget, and how much you want to customise your experience.