Ultimate Guide to Vape Tanks

Ultimate Guide to Vape Tanks

June 06, 2025 — By Daire John Patten

Whether you're new to vaping or upgrading your current setup, understanding how vape tanks work is key to unlocking a smoother, more satisfying experience. A vape tank isn't just a container for e-liquid; it's the core component determining flavour intensity, vapour production, airflow control, and how often you’ll need to top up or maintain your device.

Now, the vaping landscape in the UK will be more advanced than ever. From mouth-to-lung (MTL) tanks that closely mimic the sensation of smoking to sub-ohm tanks built for dense clouds and bold flavours, today’s market caters to every type of vaper. Leading names such as Aspire, Vopoo, and Innokin are at the forefront, introducing innovations like adjustable airflow systems, mesh coil technology, and self-cleaning features aimed at reducing maintenance while enhancing performance.

Industry Insight: A 2025 report by ECigIntelligence reveals that over 52% of UK vapers rank tank quality as the top factor influencing overall satisfaction, outranking even e-liquid and the vape mod tanks.

This highlights an essential point: choosing the right vape tank isn’t just about fit, function, flavour, and feel. Your tank affects how your vape tastes, how often you need to refill, and how close the experience comes to replicating or improving on smoking. Whether you're chasing rich tobacco flavours or fruity blends, the right tank transforms how you vape. So let's start with the Guide for vape tanks to learn everything about vape tanks.

Guide to Vaping - What Is a Vape Tank?

An e-cigarette tank is the central hub of your vaping device. It holds the e-liquid and houses the coil that transforms it into vapour. Without a high-quality tank, even the most advanced mod or premium e-liquid can't deliver the experience you're aiming for.

Essential Parts of a Vape Tank

To understand how a vape atomiser works in this vape guide for beginners, it's essential to break down its core components:

  • E-liquid Chamber: Usually made from durable glass or reinforced plastic, this reservoir stores your vape juice.
  • Coil: The coil is a small metal heating element that vaporises the e-liquid. It’s where the flavour is born.
  • Wick: Often made from organic cotton, the wick soaks up your e-liquid and channels it to the coil.
  • Drip Tip (Mouthpiece): This is the part you inhale from. It is designed for comfort and is often interchangeable.
  • Airflow Ring: This ring lets you adjust how tight or airy your draw feels, influencing both vapour density and throat hit.

How a Vape Tank Works: When you activate your vape, the battery sends power to the coil. The coil heats up, vaporising the e-liquid that’s soaked into the wick. You then inhale the resulting vapour through the drip tip.

Guide to Vaping - What Is a Vape Tank-
How Vape Tanks Integrate into a Full Vape Kit

How Vape Tanks Integrate into a Full Vape Kit

A typical vape setup is made up of three interconnected parts:

A typical vape setup is made up of three interconnected parts:

  • Battery or Mod: Provides the power supply.
  • Vape Tank: Stores the e-liquid and delivers vapour through the coil system.
  • Coil: Positioned inside the tank, it's the component that heats up and creates vapour.

These elements work together seamlessly to make vape tanks deliver the best flavour. The modular nature of tanks and mods allows vapers to personalise their experience, whether you prefer a tight, cigarette-like draw or a cloud-filled, flavour-packed hit.

Vape Tanks vs Pod Systems: Which Should You Choose?

Both vape tanks and pod systems are designed to deliver e-liquid vapour, but their build, usage style, and user benefits vary widely. Understanding these differences is essential in any guide to vape juice.

Vape Tanks: Power Meets Personalisation

  • Customisation: Choose your own coil type, tweak airflow, and fine-tune wattage settings.
  • Performance: Expect bolder flavours, thicker clouds, and a more dynamic experience.
  • Maintenance: Coils need regular replacement; tanks should be cleaned routinely.
  • Size: Bulkier and better suited for home or dedicated vape use.
  • Ideal For: Intermediate to advanced users who prioritise performance and customisation.
Hybrid E-Liquids
Vape Tanks- Power Meets Personalisation

Pod Systems: Simple, Sleek, and Travel-Friendly

  • Customisation: Choose your own coil type, tweak airflow, and fine-tune wattage settings.
  • Performance: Expect bolder flavours, thicker clouds, and a more dynamic experience.
  • Maintenance: Coils need regular replacement; tanks should be cleaned routinely.
  • Size: Bulkier and better suited for home or dedicated vape use.
  • Ideal For: Intermediate to advanced users who prioritise performance and customisation.

How Vape Tanks Work: Step-by-Step

How Vape Tanks Work Step-by-Step

A vape atomiser is an essential component of a vaping device, responsible for holding and vaporising e-liquid. Here's a simplified breakdown of its operation:

  1. Filling the Tank: Most modern tanks feature a top-fill or side-fill design. Users open the cap and pour e-liquid into the designated chamber, ensuring not to overfill.
  2. Priming the Coil: Before first use or replacing the coil, it's crucial to prime it by applying a few drops of e-liquid directly onto the cotton wick. This prevents dry hits and extends coil life.
  3. Heating the Coil: When the device is activated, the battery sends power to the coil, heating it. The e-liquid-soaked wick then vaporises the liquid upon contact with the heated coil.
  4. Vapour Production: The vapour travels through the chimney section of the tank and is inhaled through the mouthpiece.

Inhalation Styles: MTL Vs DTL

Understanding the two primary vaping styles can help users choose the best vape tanks for flavour and e-liquids:

Mouth-to-Lung (MTL)

Mouth-to-Lung (MTL)

  • Technique: Inhale vapour into the mouth first, then into the lungs.
  • Experience: Similar to traditional cigarette smoking, offering a tighter draw and stronger throat hit.
  • Equipment: Typically uses higher resistance coils (above 1.0 ohm) and lower wattage settings.
  • E-Liquids: Often paired with higher nicotine concentrations.
Direct-to-Lung (DTL)

Direct-to-Lung (DTL)

  • Technique: Inhale vapour directly into the lungs.
  • Experience: Produces larger clouds with a smoother throat hit.
  • Equipment: Utilises lower resistance coils (below 1.0 ohm) and higher wattage settings.
  • E-Liquids: Best with lower nicotine strengths and higher VG content for denser vapour.

Factors Affecting Vapour and Flavour Output

Several elements influence the quality and quantity of vapour and flavour produced:

  1. Airflow Control: Adjusting the airflow of vape tanks for the best flavour alters the vapour's density and temperature. A tighter airflow enhances flavour and provides a warmer vape, while a looser airflow produces larger clouds.
  2. Coil Resistance: Lower resistance coils (sub-ohm) allow more power, generating more vapour and a warmer vape. Higher resistance coils produce less vapour but can enhance flavour intensity.
  3. E-Liquid Composition: The ratio of Vegetable Glycerin (VG) to Propylene Glycol (PG) affects vapour production and flavour. Higher VG ratios produce denser vapour, while higher PG ratios offer stronger throat hits and more pronounced flavours.
Factors Affecting Vapour and Flavour Output

Different Types of Vape Tanks

Sub-Ohm Tanks

Overview: Designed for Direct-to-Lung (DTL) vaping, the best sub-ohm tanks use coils with a resistance below 1.0 ohm. They're ideal for producing large vapour clouds and delivering intense flavours.

Best Suited For: High VG e-liquids (70% VG or higher)

Ideal Users: Cloud chasers and flavour enthusiasts

  • Pros:
    • Produces large, dense vapour clouds
    • Delivers rich and intense flavours
    • Features adjustable airflow for customisation
    • Compatible with a wide range of e-liquids
  • Cons:
    • Consumes more e-liquid, leading to frequent refills
    • Requires more battery power
    • Not ideal for high-nicotine e-liquids due to the risk of harsh throat hits

For help choosing the right high-VG e-liquid, see our Guide to Vape Juice, explaining which is best for cloud chasing and flavour intensity.

MTL Tanks

Overview: Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) vape atomisers mimic the draw of traditional cigarettes, making them ideal for beginners and those seeking a tighter draw. They use higher resistance coils (above 1.0 ohm).

Best Suited For: High PG or 50/50 VG/PG e-liquids, including nicotine salts

Ideal Users: Beginners and ex-smokers

  • Pros:
    • Provides a cigarette-like draw, aiding smoking cessation
    • Efficient e-liquid consumption
    • Suitable for higher nicotine strengths
    • Offers a discreet vaping experience
  • Cons:
    • Limited vapour production compared to the best sub-ohm tank
    • Less customisable airflow options
    • May not satisfy users seeking large clouds
Sub-Ohm Tanks

Rebuildable Tanks (RTA/RDTA)

Overview: Rebuildable Tank Atomisers (RTAs) and Rebuildable Dripping Tank Atomisers (RDTAs) are designed for advanced users who prefer building their coils. RTA vape tanks offer customisation and cost-effectiveness but require technical knowledge.

Best Suited For: Experienced vapers interested in coil building

Ideal Users: DIY enthusiasts and those seeking tailored vaping experiences

  • Pros:
    • Allows for custom coil builds
    • Cost-effective over time
    • Enhanced flavour and vapour production
    • Offers deeper understanding of vaping
  • Cons:
    • Requires knowledge of coil building and Ohm's law
    • Time-consuming to set up
    • Not beginner-friendly
Rebuildable Tanks (RTA-RDTA)
MTL Tanks

Disposable Tanks

Overview: Disposable tanks are pre-filled or refillable tanks designed for short-term use. The entire tank is discarded once the coil degrades or the e-liquid is depleted.

Best Suited For: Travellers or those seeking a hassle-free vaping experience

Ideal Users: Vapers prioritising convenience over customisation

  • Pros:
    • No maintenance or coil changes required
    • Ideal for on-the-go vaping
    • No cleaning required
    • User-friendly
  • Cons:
    • Less eco-friendly
    • Fewer flavour/coil options
    • Potentially higher long-term costs
Disposable Tanks

This is the best guide for vape tanks, covering everything from MTL to rebuildable, helping you make an informed decision about your setup. Understanding the different types of vape tanks can help you choose the one that best suits your vaping style and preferences. For more insights, visit our blog: MTL vs. DTL Vape Tanks: Which One Is Right for You.

Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Vape Tank

Not all good vape tanks for flavour are created equal,  and choosing the right one can significantly influence everything from vapour output to flavour intensity and even how often you need to refill. Whether you're just starting your vaping journey or upgrading to a more advanced setup, here are the critical features to focus on:

E-Liquid Capacity (TPD-Compliant + Extensions)

In the UK, all vape tanks must adhere to TPD regulations, limiting capacity to 2ml. However, many manufacturers include glass extensions, offering up to 5ml or more, making them ideal for:

  • Sub-ohm vaping (which consumes more e-liquid)
  • Frequent users who want fewer refills throughout the day
E-Liquid Capacity (TPD-Compliant + Extensions)
Coil Compatibility & Range

Coil Compatibility & Range

Your coil options determine how your vape feels, tastes, and performs. Choose a tank that offers a wide range of compatible coils so you can tailor your experience over time

  • MTL Tanks: Use high-resistance coils (≥1.0Ω) for a cigarette-like, restricted inhale.
  • Frequent users who want fewer refills throughout the day

Adjustable Airflow Control

Airflow can make or break your vaping session. A well-designed tank should offer smooth, adjustable airflow, letting you fine-tune the draw to your liking:

  • Wide airflow slots: Cooler vapour and larger clouds (ideal for sub-ohm vapers).
  • Tight airflow: Warmer, more concentrated flavour and a stronger throat hit (great for MTL users).
  • Tanks with top airflow are also better at resisting leaks, especially for on-the-go vapers.
Adjustable Airflow Control
Top-Fill Design for Easy Refills

Top-Fill Design for Easy Refills

Tanks now widely feature top-fill systems that reduce mess and improve convenience, just slide or unscrew the top cap to fill up.

  • Top-fill tanks: Ideal for quick refills and better leak resistance.
  • Bottom-fill tanks: These are still available but often require removing the tank from your device.
  • Always choose tanks with silicone-sealed top caps or childproof mechanisms to enhance safety and prevent spills.

Build Quality & Materials

A reliable vape tank isn’t just about looks but durability and flavour purity.

  • Stainless Steel Frames: Resist wear, heat, and corrosion.
  • Borosilicate or Pyrex Glass: Maintains e-liquid flavour and resists cracking.
  • Reinforced Plastics: Lightweight and durable, ideal for pod-style tanks.
  • High-quality materials also help prevent flavour “ghosting” when switching between e-liquids.
BUILD QUALITY AND MATERIAL
Hybrid E-Liquids

Matching Your Tank with E-Liquid VG/PG Ratios

Choosing the best vape tanks for flavour also means understanding how they handle different e-liquids:

  • Sub-Ohm Tanks: Work best with high VG liquids (70% VG and up) for smooth, thick vapour.
  • MTL Tanks: Pair well with balanced 50/50 or high PG blends for a stronger throat hit and better nicotine satisfaction.
  • Mismatching your VG/PG ratio with your tank can lead to leaking, dry hits, or burnt coils.

Guide to Vaping - Best Vape Tanks in the UK

Looking for the perfect vape tank? We've compared standout models from top brands — Uwell, Aspire, Innokin, Voopoo, Smok, and HorizonTech — to help you find the one that matches your vaping style, experience level, and performance needs.

Tank Name Vaping Style Best For Capacity
Uwell Valyrian 2 Tank DTL Cloud and flavour chasers 2ml
HorizonTech Falcon Tank DTL Sub-ohm performance seekers 2ml
Aspire K3 Tank MTL Budget-friendly beginners 2ml
Innokin Zenith Tank MTL Smooth throat hits with nic salts 2ml
Voopoo PnP X Pod Tank MTL/DTL (Versatile) Pod-mod fans upgrading to tanks 2ml
Smok TFV Mini V2 Tank DTL High-wattage vapers 2ml

How to Maintain Your E-cigarette Tank

Taking good care of your vape tank keeps your flavours crisp and helps extend the life of your coils and device. Whether you're just getting started or looking to up your vape game, here's what you need to know:

How Often Should You Clean Your Tank?

Most vapers need only a quick rinse every 3–5 refills (or at least once a week). However, if you’re switching between flavours, a thorough clean is recommended to avoid flavour mixing or ghosting.

Explore more: How to Clean and Maintain Your Vape Tank Like a Pro

When Should You Replace the Coil?

  • Flavour tastes burnt or muted
  • Vapour production drops
  • E-liquid starts to darken faster than usual

On average, coils last 1 to 2 weeks, depending on how often you vape and what e-liquid you use.

How to Prevent Leaks and Spitback

Nothing ruins a vape session like e-liquid leaking in your pocket or popping in your mouth. Here's how to keep things clean:

  • Don’t overfill your tank; stick below the chimney line
  • Keep the airflow control tight when not in use
  • Always prime new coils and let them soak before first use
  • Avoid super-thin (high PG) liquids in sub-ohm tanks
  • Keep your tank upright when storing

Need more help? Our full Vape Troubleshooting & Maintenance Guide offers tips on gurgling, dry hits, and more.

Vape Tank Safety Tips

Staying safe with your vape setup doesn’t have to be complicated. Just a few mindful habits from this vape guide for beginners, you can go a long way in protecting your device and yourself. Whether using a beginner-friendly MTL tank or a cloud-chasing sub-ohm setup, these practical safety tips will keep your gear running smoothly

  1. Avoid Over-Tightening the Tank

    While cranking your tank down tight might feel secure, doing so can strip the threads on your mod tank's base, making removal difficult or even causing permanent damage.

    What to do instead: Screw the tank on until it’s finger-tight, just snug enough to make a good connection without forcing it.

    Avoid Over-Tightening the Tank
  2. Only Use Compatible Coils

    Only Use Compatible Coils

    Using the wrong coils for good vape tanks for flavour can cause everything from leaks and poor vapour production to burnt hits or mod errors. Stick with official or recommended coils for your tank brand.

    • Coil resistance (ohms) matches your vaping style (e.g., sub-ohm or MTL)
    • Wattage range listed on the coil matches your device's output

    Pro Tip: Never install a coil rated for 30W in a device set to 80W — it’ll burn instantly and ruin your tank.

  3. Don’t Overfill Your Tank

    Filling your tank too high can cause leaks through the airflow holes, gurgling sounds, or flooded coils.

    Tip: Leave a small air gap at the top (below the central chimney if visible). This gives room for the e-liquid to expand when your device heats up.

    dont over fill your tank
  4. charge your device properly

    Charge Your Device Properly

    Misusing chargers is one of the most common (and risky) mistakes in vaping. So let's learn about the do’s and don’ts:

    • Avoid: Overnight charging, cheap third-party cables, fast-charging wall plugs not designed for vape batteries
    • Do: Use the charger provided with your device, unplug once fully charged, and charge on a non-flammable surface away from direct sunlight

  5. Monitor Heat Buildup

    If your tank feels hot to the touch, it’s a sign to ease off. Chain vaping (rapid, continuous puffs) can overheat the coil and reduce its lifespan, or worse, cause a burnt hit.

    Tip: Let your device cool down between puffs, especially if you're using a high-powered DTL setup.

    monitor heat buildup

FAQs

What's the difference between vape tanks and pods?

Vape atomisers are larger, reusable components with replaceable coils, adjustable airflow, and top or bottom-fill options. They’re great for customising your vape experience, from cloud size to flavour intensity.

Pod systems, by contrast, are compact, low-maintenance devices that often use pre-filled or built-in pods and are ideal for beginners.

  • Tanks: More control & performance
  • Pods: Simplicity & portability

Can I use nic salts in sub-ohm tanks?

Technically, yes, but it’s not advised. Sub-ohm tanks generate large clouds and stronger throat hits, making high-strength nic salts (like 20mg) feel harsh or overwhelming.

Best Practice:
Use nicotine salts with MTL tanks or pod kits at lower wattages.
Use freebase e-liquids in sub-ohm tanks for smoother high-VG performance.

How long do vape tanks last?

The tank itself can last months to years with proper cleaning and care. But the coil inside needs replacing every 1 to 2 weeks, depending on:

  • Your vaping frequency
  • Type of e-liquid
  • Coil resistance and wattage
  • Maintenance habits

Time to replace the coil if:
You taste burning
Vapour production drops
You notice leaking or gurgling

Are rebuildable tanks worth it?

Rebuildable tanks are a top choice for advanced vapers who want complete control over their coil setup and flavour customisation. They also save money in the long run, but are not plug-and-play.

  • Choose rebuildables if:
  • You enjoy building and tweaking coils
  • You want max vapour and flavour performance
  • You understand Ohm’s law and battery safety
  • Skip them if:
  • You prefer convenience
  • You’re new to vaping or don’t enjoy DIY setups

Final Thoughts: Which Vape Tank Is Right for You?

After reading the guide for vape tanks, finding the best vape tank depends on your style and experience. Whether you crave flavour, chase clouds, or want a smooth switch from smoking, there’s a perfect tank out there waiting for you.

Sub-Ohm Tanks

Ideal for Direct-to-Lung (DTL) vapers who love dense clouds, high-VG e-liquids, and intense flavour. Also great for advanced users and cloud chasers.

MTL Tanks (Mouth-to-Lung)

Perfect for beginners or ex-smokers, especially when using nic salts or 50/50 e-liquids. These tanks mimic the feel of a cigarette with a tighter draw and intense throat hit.

Rebuildable Tanks (RTAs/RDTAs)

Best suited for experienced vapers who want custom coil builds, tailored airflow, and maximum control. RTA vape tanks are also a top pick for hobbyists and flavour fanatics.

Disposable Vape Tanks

Rare but handy, these single-use tanks offer zero maintenance and are great for short-term use, travel, or testing new flavours without commitment.

Find Your Perfect Vape Tank at Greet Vape

→ Shop Vape Tanks Now

With top-rated brands, helpful reviews, and expert advice, Greet Vape makes finding the right tank easier than ever, whether upgrading or just getting started.

Daire John Patten

Sales Assistant – Wallasey, Wirral

Daire is a knowledgeable vaping expert and a sales assistant at GreetVape in Wallasey. He has a Level 3 customer service apprenticeship and retail experience at JD Sports. He guides customers confidently, using clear, practical communication. Daire’s hands-on experience on product reviews draws from real customer insights and his deep understanding of starter kits, pods, and flavours, ensuring trustworthy advice grounded in experience.