How Much Does Vaping Cost Compared To Smoking?

Published August 12, 2025

By: Azim Aleem

The price of cigarettes continues to rise, with taxes and production costs driving up the expense of both pre-rolled cigarettes and loose tobacco. The average cost of a pack of cigarettes in the UK has increased by 5.9% in recent years, reaching around £16 per pack. This can be a major factor for those trying to quit smoking. In contrast, vaping is not subject to the same taxes, and the potential savings are significant. Recent research indicates that transitioning to vaping can result in substantial savings, with some individuals cutting costs by as much as £780 annually.

Now you’re wondering, how much are vapes? That’s not always easy to figure out compared to smoking, which is why we’ve developed our vaping cost calculator. Our calculator helps you compare the cost of vapes with the cost of smoking, not just in terms of devices but also the essential extras like coils and e-liquids. You’ll get a full breakdown of the cost of vapes and how they measure up against the price of cigarettes.

The Vaping Cost Breakdown

To start using the vaping cost calculator, choose whether you smoke cigarettes or roll-ups, then use the slider to select how many you smoke per day. After that, you’ll see the cost of vapes in comparison to smoking. The calculator will also provide you with an idea of the costs of various vape kits, along with a brief overview of how these kits work and the maintenance they require.

Below is the breakdown of the cost of vapes compared to cigarettes, including some examples of potential savings:

How Much Are Vapes Compared to Cigarettes?

How Much Are Vapes Compared to Cigarettes?

Cigarettes or Roll-ups

  • Annual Costs: £2920
  • Potential Savings: £0

Prefilled Pod Kit

  • Annual Costs: £672
  • Potential Savings: £2248

Refillable Pod Kit (Built-in Coil)

  • Annual Costs: £359
  • Potential Savings: £2561

Refillable Pod Kit (Replaceable Coils)

  • Annual Costs: £377
  • Potential Savings: £2543

Tank Kit

  • Annual Costs: £343
  • Potential Savings: £2577

How Much Do Vapes Cost?

While switching to vaping might be a bit of an investment upfront, the long-term savings can be significant. The cost of vapes varies from device to device, but it’s much cheaper than smoking, particularly when you factor in the cost of replacement parts like coils and e-liquid.

Vape Pods and Devices:

  • Pre-filled pod kits cost a bit more for ease and convenience, while refillable pod kits can save you money with the passage of time.
  • Refillable vape kits, which require coil replacements but offer the most control over your vaping experience, tend to be the most economical choice for regular vapers.

What Is the Cost of Vapes in the UK?

The price of vaping products in the UK varies depending on the device and accessories you choose. While some devices may appear expensive at first, the ongoing costs of e-liquids and replacement coils are relatively low compared to cigarettes.

Weekly Breakdown (average cost):

  • Cigarettes: £56
  • Prefilled Pod Kit: £12.90
  • Refillable Pod Kit: £6.90
  • Tank Kit: £6.60

Is Vaping Cheaper Than Smoking?

Is Vaping Cheaper Than Smoking? Yes, vaping is cheaper than smoking in the long run. Although you’ll have an initial cost for your vape kit, the ongoing expenses, including e-liquid and coil replacements, are much lower than the regular cost of buying cigarettes. The savings can add up quickly.

How much do vapes cost? Here's a closer look at the average costs:

  • Weekly: £56 for cigarettes vs. £6.60 for tank kits
  • Monthly: £240 for cigarettes vs. £28.20 for tank kits
  • Annually: £2920 for cigarettes vs. £343 for tank kits

Cost of Vape Products Breakdown

  • Loose Tobacco (30g Pouch): £23 (equivalent to 50 cigarettes)
  • Pack of 20 Cigarettes: £16
  • Prefilled Pod Kit: £15 (one purchased per year)
  • Refillable Pod Kit: £20 (one purchased per year)
  • 10ml E-Liquid: £3 (equivalent to 50 cigarettes)
  • Coils for Pods: £2.50 (one used per week)
  • Coils for Tanks: £2 (one used per week)

Final Thoughts

Switching to vaping from smoking offers significant savings with the passage of time. The starting investment in a vape kit may seem high, but the savings on e-liquids and coils quickly add up. Whether you choose a prefilled pod system, a refillable pod kit, or a tank kit, vaping is far cheaper than smoking.

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At VapeGala, our digital initiatives are spearheaded by Azim Aleem. With extensive experience in the vaping sector, Azim's approach is shaped by his own successful transition from smoking. This personal journey greatly assists him in promoting vaping's benefits. Further, he gained real-time insights into user preferences and market dynamics as a frontline vape consultant. Now he is utilising his hands-on understanding and digital marketing prowess to empower others toward a smoke-free future.