You have seen EGO a bunch, there is a reason for that and don't be mistaken no one here is trying to sell you on any one item as being best, but we have tried getting the cheap one and then bought the better once we saved enough money again. I love my EGO, and got it from my favorite supplier. You are in IL. so I recommend you check out Cignot.com as they are close to you. Vicky will give you excellent customer service, and if you send a note to her when ordering I am sure she will call or message you to make sure you have what you need to start. If you don't like what you get you won't be stuck with it, just put it in the classifieds on here. When you do place your order and get your PV jump on the forum and many will be happy to walk you through your first vape!
+1 on Cignot. Vicki was my first supplier (of GOOD products, lol), and I still order stuff from her. Legendary customer service, and lightning fast shipping anywhere in the lower 48.
illinoismom, don't get too hung up with "OMG, there are so many choices, whatdoIdo?????" right away. The important thing is a) Go with a reputable supplier that doesn't overcharge and/or sell crap. Cignot is one of the better ones, but there are others. b) Get started.
Cignot has a basic 510 starter kit for $35. Add some juice to get it over $60 (for the free shipping). Done... you're on your way. Should you decide that the battery life of the 510 isn't for you, you can get a PCC for $25, or upgrade to the Ego which uses the same 510 atomizers. The 510 series is one of the best performing, most popular model series around, but maybe the model just isn't "for you"... who knows? Maybe you'd like a KR808 better... but in any event you're out, what, a carton of smokes? Less than a week's worth for you? You'll have a better idea of what you need once you get started and have some sort of "base-line" to go from.
It's easy to get overwhelmed at first, I know. My advice is to just go ahead and jump in with a reliable, quality model from a reliable, reasonably priced vendor, and get going. Even if you immediately decide to upgrade, what looks like such a big purchase PALES in comparison to what you're spending on cigs. A pack of Marlboro lights in Skokie IL retails for $6.60 right now, x 2 PAD, x 30... $396 per month.
Suddenly a $60 cignot order doesn't sound so bad now, does it?