Vape Tanks & Atomizers: What They Are & The Different Types
Vape tanks and atomizers are essential components of many vape kits and vape mods, playing a major role in flavour production, vapour performance, and overall vaping experience. Whether you are using a beginner-friendly vape kit or an advanced sub-ohm setup, choosing the right vape tank or atomizer can significantly impact how your device performs.
In this guide, we’ll explain what vape tanks and atomizers are, how they work, the different types available, and how to choose the best option for your vaping style.
What Are Vape Tanks & Atomizers?
A vape tank or atomizer is the section of a vaping device that holds e-liquid and contains the coil responsible for producing vapour.
The terms “tank” and “atomizer” are often used interchangeably, but there are slight differences:
- Vape Tanks are typically prebuilt systems designed for convenience and compatibility with replaceable coils.
- Atomizers can refer to both standard tanks and rebuildable systems that allow users to build custom coils.
These components attach to a vape mod or battery device and work together to heat e-liquid into vapour.
How Vape Tanks & Atomizers Work
Vape tanks and atomizers function by delivering e-liquid to a heated coil.
Coil
The heating element that vaporizes the e-liquid.
Wick
Usually made from cotton, the wick absorbs e-liquid and feeds it to the coil.
Tank Reservoir
Stores the e-liquid.
Airflow System
Controls airflow intake, affecting flavour and vapour production.
Mouthpiece (Drip Tip)
The section users inhale from.
When the vape device is activated, the battery powers the coil, which heats the e-liquid absorbed by the wick and produces vapour.
The Different Types of Vape Tanks & Atomizers
There are several types of vape tanks and atomizers available, each designed for different vaping styles and experience levels.
1. Standard Vape Tanks
Standard vape tanks are prebuilt tanks that use replaceable coils and are designed for simple everyday vaping.
Features:
- Easy coil replacement
- Refillable e-liquid capacity
- Beginner-friendly operation
- Compatible with many vape mods
Best For:
- Beginners
- Everyday vaping
- Mouth-to-lung vaping
Standard tanks are one of the easiest ways to enjoy refillable vaping.
2. Sub-Ohm Tanks
Sub-ohm tanks are designed for higher wattage vaping and larger vapour production.
What Is a Sub-Ohm Tank?
A sub-ohm tank uses coils with a resistance below 1.0 ohm, allowing more power and increased vapour output.
Features:
- Large airflow systems
- High vapour production
- Enhanced flavour
- Compatible with high VG e-liquids
Best For:
- Direct-to-lung (DTL) vaping
- Cloud production
- Experienced users
Sub-ohm tanks are extremely popular among users who enjoy larger clouds and stronger flavour performance.
3. Mouth-To-Lung (MTL) Tanks
MTL tanks are designed to replicate the tighter draw of traditional cigarettes.
Features:
- Restricted airflow
- Lower wattage vaping
- Smooth nicotine delivery
- Ideal for nicotine salts
Best For:
- Former smokers
- Beginners
- Nicotine salt users
MTL tanks provide a discreet and satisfying vaping experience with smaller vapour production.
4. Rebuildable Dripping Atomizers (RDAs)
RDAs are advanced atomizers that allow users to install custom-built coils and manually drip e-liquid onto the wick.
Features:
- Exceptional flavour performance
- Large vapour production
- Fully customizable builds
- No traditional tank reservoir
Best For:
- Advanced users
- Coil builders
- Flavour-focused vaping
RDAs require users to regularly drip e-liquid directly onto the coils.
5. Rebuildable Tank Atomizers (RTAs)
RTAs combine rebuildable decks with built-in e-liquid reservoirs.
Features:
- Rebuildable coil deck
- Refillable tank section
- Better e-liquid capacity than RDAs
- Customizable vaping experience
Best For:
- Experienced users
- DIY coil builders
- Users wanting rebuildable convenience
RTAs provide advanced customization without the need for constant dripping.
6. Rebuildable Dripping Tank Atomizers (RDTAs)
RDTAs combine elements of both RDAs and RTAs.
Features:
- Rebuildable dripping-style deck
- Integrated tank reservoir
- Strong flavour production
- Extended e-liquid storage
Best For:
- Advanced vaping enthusiasts
- Users seeking hybrid performance
RDTAs offer a balance between flavour intensity and tank convenience.
7. Mesh Coil Tanks
Mesh coil tanks use mesh-style heating elements instead of traditional wire coils.
Benefits of Mesh Coils:
- Faster heating
- Better flavour consistency
- Smoother vapour
- Longer coil lifespan
Mesh coil technology has become one of the most popular advancements in modern vape tanks.
Adjustable Airflow Explained
Many vape tanks and atomizers feature adjustable airflow systems.
Tight Airflow
- More cigarette-like inhale
- Better for MTL vaping
- Stronger throat hit
Open Airflow
- Larger vapour clouds
- Smoother inhale
- Better for DTL vaping
Adjustable airflow allows users to customize their vaping experience based on personal preference.
Coil Types for Vape Tanks & Atomizers
The coil inside your tank significantly affects flavour, vapour production, and overall performance.
Standard Coils
Balanced performance for everyday vaping.
Mesh Coils
Excellent flavour and vapour consistency.
Ceramic Coils
Known for longevity and smooth heating.
Rebuildable Coils
Custom-built coils used in RDAs, RTAs, and RDTAs.
Benefits of Vape Tanks & Atomizers
High-quality vape tanks and atomizers provide several important benefits.
Better Flavour
Modern coil systems improve flavour accuracy and consistency.
Refillable Convenience
Users can refill with their preferred e-liquid flavours and nicotine strengths.
Adjustable Performance
Airflow and coil options allow customization.
Cost-Effective
Replaceable coils are often more affordable than disposable devices over time.
Greater Vapour Production
Sub-ohm tanks and rebuildables support large cloud vaping.
Choosing the Best Vape Tank or Atomizer
When selecting a vape tank or atomizer, it’s important to consider your vaping style and experience level.
For Beginners
- Standard vape tanks
- MTL tanks
- Simple coil replacement systems
For Intermediate Users
- Sub-ohm tanks
- Adjustable airflow systems
- Mesh coil tanks
For Advanced Users
- RDAs
- RTAs
- RDTAs
- Custom coil setups
Vape Tanks vs Atomizers: What’s the Difference?
While the terms are often used interchangeably, tanks generally refer to user-friendly refillable systems, while atomizers may also include advanced rebuildable devices.
Vape Tanks:
- Easier maintenance
- Replaceable coils
- Beginner friendly
Rebuildable Atomizers:
- Fully customizable
- Better flavour potential
- Advanced coil building
Choosing the right option depends on how much control and customization you want from your vaping experience.
Why Mesh Coil Tanks Are So Popular
Mesh coil tanks have become one of the most sought-after options in vaping because they improve:
- Flavour quality
- Coil lifespan
- Vapour consistency
- Heating speed
Many modern vape tanks now use mesh coil technology as a standard feature.
Final Thoughts on Vape Tanks & Atomizers
Vape tanks and atomizers are key components that directly affect flavour, vapour production, airflow, and overall vaping performance. From beginner-friendly MTL tanks to advanced rebuildable atomizers and powerful sub-ohm tanks, there are many options available for every vaping style.
Whether you are looking for a refillable vape tank, a mesh coil sub-ohm setup, or a fully customizable rebuildable atomizer, understanding the different types can help you choose the right option for your vaping needs.
Browse our collection of vape tanks and atomizers today and discover high-performance mesh coil tanks, rebuildable atomizers, sub-ohm vape systems, and refillable vaping solutions designed for flavour, clouds, and reliability.