Refillable vs Disposable Vapes — What Is the Difference?
Disposable vapes are single-use devices that you throw away once the e-liquid or battery runs out. Refillable vapes — also called pod systems or open systems — use a rechargeable battery paired with a pod or tank that you fill with your own e-liquid. When the pod wears out (typically after 1–2 weeks), you replace just the pod, not the entire device.
The refillable approach costs more upfront but saves significant money over time. It also generates far less electronic waste, which is an increasingly important consideration as Australia moves toward tighter environmental regulations on disposable vapes.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Disposable | Refillable Pod System |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront cost | $25–$50 per device | $25–$50 for starter kit |
| Ongoing cost | $25–$50 per device (repeating) | $10–$20/week (pods + e-liquid) |
| Flavour options | 20–30 per brand | Thousands (any e-liquid) |
| Maintenance | None | Refilling, pod/coil changes |
| Environmental impact | High (entire device discarded) | Low (only pods replaced) |
| Nicotine control | Fixed strength | Choose your own (0–50 mg) |
Best Refillable Vapes in Australia — 2026
1. Uwell Caliburn G3
The Uwell Caliburn G3 is the benchmark refillable pod vape in Australia. Its aluminium alloy body feels premium in the hand, the top-fill pod design makes refilling mess-free, and the replaceable mesh coil delivers clean, flavour-dense vapour across hundreds of refills.
- Battery: 900 mAh (USB-C charging, ~45 min to full)
- Pod capacity: 2.5 mL
- Coil type: Replaceable mesh (rated for 1–2 weeks per coil)
- Airflow: Adjustable side dial
- Price: $44.95 for the starter kit (includes device, two pods, one coil and USB-C cable)
The Caliburn G3 is ideal for vapers who want full control over flavour and nicotine strength. It pairs beautifully with freebase and salt nicotine e-liquids alike.
2. IGET Bar Plus Pod System
The IGET Bar Plus sits halfway between disposable and refillable. The battery is rechargeable, but instead of filling your own e-liquid, you swap in pre-filled IGET pods. Each pod delivers approximately 600 puffs.
- Battery: 600 mAh (original) / 800 mAh (S3 upgrade)
- Pod capacity: 2 mL (pre-filled)
- Coil type: Built into the pod (mesh)
- Price: $24.95 starter kit; replacement pods from $9.95 each or $39.95 per 5-pack
The Bar Plus is perfect for vapers who want to reduce waste and cost compared to disposables but are not ready for the full refillable experience of buying e-liquid and changing coils.
3. Uwell Caliburn A3S
A more compact and affordable alternative to the G3, the Caliburn A3S features a 520 mAh battery and a 2 mL pod. It is slimmer, lighter and slightly cheaper ($34.95 for the kit), making it a good entry point for vapers transitioning from disposables for the first time.
E-Liquid Basics for Beginners
If you choose a true refillable device like the Caliburn G3, you will need to buy e-liquid separately. Here is what you need to know.
Key E-Liquid Terms
- VG/PG ratio: Vegetable glycerine (VG) produces thicker vapour; propylene glycol (PG) carries flavour more intensely. A 50/50 ratio works best in pod systems. Higher VG (70/30) is better suited to sub-ohm tank devices.
- Freebase nicotine: Traditional nicotine form. Smooth at lower strengths (3–6 mg/mL) but harsh above 12 mg/mL. Best for light to moderate vapers.
- Salt nicotine: Smoother throat hit at higher concentrations (20–50 mg/mL). Ideal for heavy smokers transitioning to vaping who need a stronger nicotine delivery.
E-Liquid Pricing
| Bottle Size | Price Range | Approx. Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 10 mL | $8–$12 | 3–5 days |
| 30 mL | $15–$25 | 1–2 weeks |
| 60 mL | $25–$40 | 3–4 weeks |
| 120 mL | $40–$65 | 6–8 weeks |
Buying larger bottles is always more cost-effective. A 60 mL bottle at $30 works out to $0.50 per mL, while a 10 mL bottle at $10 costs $1.00 per mL — double the price.
For information on nicotine e-liquid regulations in Australia, refer to the TGA's vaping guidance.
Cost Savings — Refillable vs Disposable Over 12 Months
Here is a realistic cost comparison for an average vaper (approximately 500 puffs per day) over a full year.
| Method | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost | Annual Saving vs Disposable |
|---|---|---|---|
| IGET Moon (disposable, ~3 per month) | $105 | $1,260 | — |
| Alibarbar Pro 10000 (~2 per month) | $90 | $1,080 | $180 |
| IGET Bar Plus (pods, ~8 per month) | $80 | $960 | $300 |
| Uwell Caliburn G3 (e-liquid + coils) | $55 | $660 | $600 |
Switching from disposable IGET Moons to a Uwell Caliburn G3 saves approximately $600 per year. Even the semi-refillable IGET Bar Plus saves $300 annually compared to disposables. The savings compound further for heavy vapers who go through more devices or e-liquid.
How to Get Started with Refillable Vaping
- Choose your device. The Uwell Caliburn G3 is the best all-round option. The IGET Bar Plus is the easiest transition from disposables.
- Pick your e-liquid (Caliburn only). Start with a 30 mL bottle in a flavour you know you like. Salt nicotine at 20–35 mg/mL is the closest match to a disposable vape's nicotine delivery.
- Prime the coil. Before your first puff, fill the pod and let it sit for 5 minutes so the e-liquid soaks into the wick. This prevents dry hits and extends coil life.
- Start vaping. Take shorter, gentler draws than you would on a disposable. Refillable devices are more efficient, so you need less draw force to get the same vapour and flavour.
- Replace the coil when flavour drops. When you notice a muted or slightly burnt taste, it is time for a new coil. This is typically every 7–14 days depending on usage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a refillable vape better than a disposable?
For long-term value and environmental impact, yes. Refillable pod systems cost 30–50 % less to operate annually and generate far less electronic waste. The trade-off is slightly more maintenance — refilling pods and occasionally changing coils.
What is the best refillable vape for beginners in Australia?
The IGET Bar Plus is the easiest entry point since it uses pre-filled pods (no e-liquid handling). For full refillable control, the Uwell Caliburn A3S is the most beginner-friendly open-system device thanks to its simple top-fill design and compact form factor.
How often do I need to replace refillable vape pods?
Pod and coil lifespan depends on usage, but most vapers replace them every 7–14 days. Using sweetened e-liquids can shorten coil life, while unflavoured or lightly flavoured juices extend it.
Can I use any e-liquid in a refillable vape?
Pod systems work best with 50/50 VG/PG e-liquids. Avoid thick, high-VG juices (70/30 or above) as they can cause wicking issues and muted flavour in pod devices. Both freebase and salt nicotine e-liquids are compatible.
How much money will I save switching from disposables to refillable?
An average vaper can save $300–$600 per year by switching from disposables to a refillable pod system, depending on the devices being compared. Heavy vapers save even more. See the cost comparison table above for detailed figures.