Refillable vs. Disposable Vapes

Choosing between disposable and refillable vapes comes down to convenience, cost, and customisation. Disposable vapes are pre-filled, ready to use, and require no maintenance, making them ideal for beginners or those who prefer a hassle-free experience. However, they can be costly over time and contribute to environmental waste.

Refillable vapes, on the other hand, offer long-term savings and greater control over flavour, nicotine strength, and vapour production. While they require some setup and maintenance, they are rechargeable and reusable, making them a more sustainable option. If you're looking for simplicity, disposables might be the better choice, but for flexibility and cost efficiency, refillables are the way to go.

Disposable vapes are single-use devices that come pre-filled with e-liquid and a pre-charged battery. Once the e-liquid runs out or the battery dies, the entire device is discarded. These vape pens are designed for convenience and require no maintenance, making them a straightforward option for vapers looking for an easy-to-use device. 

Refillable vapes, also known as open-system vapes which includes some vape pod kits, allow users to fill their own pods or tanks with e-liquid. These devices are rechargeable and reusable, requiring some maintenance like refilling pods and replacing coils. While they require more effort than disposables, refillable vapes allow users to customise their vaping experience by selecting their preferred e-liquids, nicotine strengths, and device settings. 

The answer depends on what you're looking for. If you value convenience and simplicity, disposable vapes might seem like the better option. However, if you prefer a long-term solution that allows for more flexibility with flavours, nicotine strengths, and device settings, refillable vapes offer a more adaptable option. With the UK government set to ban disposable vapes from June 1st, switching to refillable vapes now ensures you can continue vaping without interruption. Refillable vapes offer a sustainable and flexible option, reducing waste and allowing for customisation with e-liquid flavours and nicotine strengths. 

Both refillable and disposable vapes operate using the same core principles: they heat e-liquid to create vapour. The potential health risks are generally associated with the ingredients in the e-liquid rather than the device itself. With refillable vapes, users can select their preferred e-liquids, including options with fewer additives, offering more control over flavour and nicotine strength.  Some disposable vapes have been found to contain non-regulated ingredients, which is why it’s important to purchase from reputable retailers. At Haypp, all our vape products meet TPD (Tobacco Products Directive) regulations, ensuring they are safe, compliant, and meet the highest quality standards. This means our products adhere to strict guidelines on nicotine strength, packaging, and ingredient safety, helping you avoid counterfeit or non-compliant vapes. 

From a cost and environmental standpoint, disposable vapes contribute more to long-term expenses and electronic waste compared to refillable vapes and vape pods. They contribute significantly to electronic waste, and their long-term costs can be substantially higher than refillable alternatives. However, disposables remain a convenient option for those seeking a simple, ready-to-use vaping experience. 

While disposable vapes might seem cheaper upfront, they can become much more expensive in the long run. Here is a closer look at the costs:  

• Disposable Vapes: Brands like Elf Bar offer disposables at £2.79 per vape pen. If you vape regularly, using 20 to 30 disposables per month can cost between £55.80 and £83.70 per month, adding up to over £1,000 per year.
• Refillable Vapes: Devices such as the Vuse Pro Pod Device start at £3.49, while premium pod kits like the Elf Bar ELFX cost £10.99. Once you have the device, your ongoing costs are mainly for e-liquids and replacement pods, averaging £20 to £40 per month—significantly cheaper than disposables over time. 

(Note: This is based on prices on Haypp UK as of March 2025) 

While it can be hard to know the differences between refillables and disposables or which options to pick if you want to change over to refillable vapes, we have got you covered. To help decode the differences, I have tested both the Elf Bar 600 (one of the most popular disposable vapes) and the Elf Bar ELFX (a refillable vape option from Elf Bar) to see what the real differences are and how they compare in terms of experience, flavour, performance and overall design. 

“When it comes to the vaping experience, disposables like the Elf Bar 600 offer sheer convenience. The device comes ready to use right out of the box with no need for refilling or complicated setup. Simply unwrap, inhale, and enjoy a consistent vape every time. The Elf Bar 600’s pre-filled e-liquid and simple design make it a convenient option for those who prefer straightforward vaping. 

On the other hand, the Elf Bar ELFX, being a refillable pod system, offers much more customization. Although it requires a bit more setup, such as filling the pod with your preferred e-liquid, it grants the user control over their vaping experience. Whether you’re looking to change your nicotine strength, experiment with different e-liquid flavours, or adjust the airflow to suit your personal preference, the Elf Bar ELFX provides the flexibility that disposables cannot match.” 

“Flavour is where the biggest distinction between these two devices comes into play. The Elf Bar 600 comes pre-filled with a selection of e-liquids, making it simple and straightforward. The available flavours are known for their strong and vibrant profiles, ranging from fruity to menthol to dessert-inspired options. However, with a disposable device, you're limited to the flavours offered by the brand. Once the liquid runs out, the device is disposed of, and your flavour options are restricted to the ones available in your local store or online. 

The Elf Bar ELFX allows users to select from a wide variety of e-liquids, offering greater flexibility with flavours and nicotine strengths. As a refillable pod system, it allows you to choose any e-liquid you desire. Whether you prefer classic tobacco, refreshing mint, exotic fruit blends, or complex dessert flavours, the refillable nature of the ELFX gives you complete freedom. Plus, because you can refill the pod multiple times, you can easily switch between flavours without needing to purchase a new device each time.” 

“In terms of performance, both devices hold up well but cater to different needs. The Elf Bar 600, with its pre-filled 2ml of e-liquid and internal 550mAh battery, delivers up to 600 puffs of consistent performance. It provides a smooth and satisfying draw, with reliable flavour and vapor output from the first puff to the last. For those looking for a simple, no-hassle vape, the Elf Bar 600 does its job without fail. 

The Elf Bar ELFX offers greater versatility, allowing users to customise their vaping experience with adjustable airflow and refillable options. The ELFX features a rechargeable battery, meaning you can use it as long as you want without worrying about replacing it. Additionally, it comes with QUAQ dual mesh coil pods that improve the flavour and vapour production. The adjustable airflow also allows you to customize your draw, giving you more control over your vaping experience, whether you prefer a tight, MTL (mouth-to-lung) hit or a loose, DTL (direct-to-lung) draw. The ability to choose your resistance (0.6Ω or 0.8Ω) gives a more tailored vaping experience that disposables like the Elf Bar 600 can’t provide.” 

“The design of the Elf Bar 600 is all about convenience. Its small, lightweight form factor makes it ideal for those who need a portable, easy-to-use vape. With a comfortable duckbill mouthpiece and sleek body, it’s a perfect fit for quick sessions on the go. The disposable nature of the device means no maintenance is required; once it’s used up, simply toss it and grab a new one. 

The Elf Bar ELFX, by contrast, is designed for those who want a more premium, long-term vaping solution. Its sleek, modern build features durable construction, often incorporating metallic or matte finishes that offer a more refined feel. It’s also equipped with an airflow regulator, which enhances the user’s ability to customize the vape draw. While it’s larger than the Elf Bar 600, its form factor is still portable enough for everyday use, and the fact that it’s refillable and rechargeable makes it a more long-lasting option for regular vapers.” 

“Price is another major consideration when choosing between these two devices. While the Elf Bar 600 offers an affordable, low-upfront cost, disposables can quickly become expensive if you vape frequently. With a limited number of puffs per device, it can add up, especially if you enjoy regular vaping sessions. 

The Elf Bar ELFX, though, offers greater cost-efficiency in the long run. While the initial cost of the kit is higher than the Elf Bar 600, you can continue to use it for months by simply replacing the pods and refilling them with your choice of e-liquid. This can result in lower long-term costs, particularly for regular vapers who use refillable devices over an extended period. Additionally, by offering the ability to refill the pod with different nicotine strengths or flavours, the ELFX ensures you are not locked into a single, expensive option.” 

“Ultimately, the choice between the Elf Bar 600 and the Elf Bar ELFX comes down to your personal vaping preferences. If you value simplicity, convenience, and portability, the Elf Bar 600 is an excellent choice for those who prefer a straightforward vaping solution. It’s easy to use, offers great flavour, and provides a satisfying experience with minimal effort. 

However, if you’re looking for a more customizable, long-lasting, and cost-effective solution, the Elf Bar ELFX is the way to go. It offers better performance, a wider range of flavours, and the ability to fine-tune your vaping experience to your exact liking. For regular vapers or those seeking more control over their vape, the ELFX provides an adaptable and efficient alternative to disposables. 

With the UK government set to ban disposable vapes from June 1st, switching to a refillable system like the Elf Bar ELFX is a practical step for those seeking a long-term solution. Not only will it give you more freedom in your vaping experience, but it will also ensure you’re ready for the future of vaping.” 

With the upcoming disposable vape ban, switching to a refillable device ensures you can continue vaping legally while enjoying more flexibility with flavours and nicotine strengths. Here’s how to make the transition smoothly:

1. Choose an Easy-to-Use Device – Look for beginner-friendly pod kits like the Elf Bar Elfa Pro or Vaporesso XROS 3.
2. Select the Right E-Liquid – If you enjoy disposables, go for nicotine salt e-liquids in a similar strength.
3. Get Extra Pods – Having spare pods ensures you’re never caught without a working vape.
4. Charge Regularly – Unlike disposables, you’ll need to charge your device to keep it running.
5. Experiment with Flavours – Refillable vapes give you access to a wide range of e-liquid flavours. 

As a vape enthusiast and expert, I’ve had the chance to try a wide variety of flavours, and I have a few favourites that I always go back to for their unique profiles and overall quality. Here are some of the best flavours I would recommend, featuring my favourite Elf Bar 600 flavours and the best ELFLIQ e-liquid alternatives for a refillable vape.  

With the disposable vape ban taking effect from June 1st, refillable vapes will become the primary option for UK vapers looking for a sustainable and long-term solution. While disposable vapes offer unmatched convenience, refillable vapes provide long-term savings, more customisation, and a reusable option that reduces battery waste. 

If you’re currently using disposables, making the switch to a refillable vape kit will ensure you can continue vaping legally while enjoying a more tailored experience. Browse our selection of Refillable Vape Kits and E-Liquids to find the vape combination for you today!