Thank you! (and a question or two) :)

[Metonym]

This is my first post on the board though I have lurked around quite a bit prior. I just wanted to start by saying thank you to all you experienced and ultra experienced vapers who browse through the newbie board and offer your very much appreciated advice. I have learned everything I know (not all that much) from these forums and I feel miles ahead due to you all!

I have the same question every newbie has about what to buy. I've read post after post but can't really find a great answer mostly because of the gaps in my knowledge base. Here it goes anyway:

After reading this forum about a year or so ago, I bought my first system, a joyetech 510. I am a "brand" person and bought an original, not a knock-off. I bought it with the intention of quitting analogs or at minimum having a substitution at work. I really hated it. It was messy. It tasted terrible/burnt. I kept getting liquid in my mouth. I could never tell if my atomizer, cartomizer, whichever it is, was fried. All the liquids I bought either tasted terrible or when I did like it, it tasted different/burnt the next time I filled it up. I set it down after a few weeks.

Last summer, I decided to give it another go and did a little more research into juices and systems and bought a eGo-C with a big bottle of Backwoods Brew RY4. Now, we're getting somewhere. I used it at work a day or two per week (no smoking on the premises) and it met my needs but I always lit up the minute I got to the car.

Two days ago, I put down the analogs for good. The eGo-C is working and I can actually see myself never "analogging" again but now I am really experiencing the issues of the all-day vaper and I need to move into something a little more advanced. I won't say that money is no object but I am willing to pay for something that is really good. Maybe what I am looking for doesn't exist but indulge me while I list what's important to me.

A larger volume of juice - I hate refilling these little cartridge things but after my experience with the 510, I am afraid of those with all the coils and wires and areas that you can never, ever, ever touch with the juice or you'll fry it, suck it, or burn it. I am willing to learn but I want something that is not too complex. When I see those tanks/cartos that you can rebuild, I just freeze up thinking about rebuilding it. I think I'd be willing to use it like it's disposable even though you can rebuild it.

A longer battery life - One of the things that worries me about switching over is running out of battery and then being forced into the store for analogs while I am out. I know about the pass through car charger which is appealing but not having decided on what mod/system, I'm not sure this will be an option.

VV/VW - I am just beginning to understand this one but having never tried anything but the out of the box eGo-C battery, I don't know if I need this. I do think that if I spend a bit of cash on something new, that it should include the latest technology so if I did this, I would want something that had a menu, battery life indicator and more than one button to scroll through (See, I do read this board!).

Aesthetics - I'm a girl. I like pretty. I also like cool. Sleek. Badass. Upscale. I do not need it to be discreet (like an analog) but I also don't want it to be a foot long or so fat I can't get my hand around it. (No innuendo intended but I just couldn't think of another way to say it.)

Lastly, I think the reason I am so stumped is not knowing how all these pieces fit together. Will the tank/cartomizer, atomizer, etc. fit on the base. Which ones need an adapter, extra ring, sleeve, cone, etc.?

Sorry I got so long winded!

 

[Ryedan]

Hi Metonym and welcome to ECF! Do you have one or two batteries for the eGo-C. AFAIK most kits come with 2 complete pv's like mine did, but I suspect from what you said you might have one only. Second, what is the capacity of your battery in mAh? Tell us where you bought it if you don't know.

 

[Johnnie Price]

You're a girl who likes cool, sleek and sexy? You want the Vapor Girl! And I'm serious.

I can recommend the Military 808 Kit, but she is bound to have something you like. They have the large 1300 mAh batteries and 350 mAh minis. Check them out.

EDIT: They have mods/APV's as well.

Good luck!

 

[Metonym]

I do have the Joyetech brand and labeling on the system and it did come with two batteries in the starter kit but I don't know what size the battery is. I bought it from esmokeronline.com (I think - has their site changed - it looks different to me now) but I think they carry more than one size kit. I have been charging one at home and leaving the house with the other but a couple of times at work, I didn't engage the "safety" and when I went to use it, there was no power. I guess I should consider the carrying case for both of them but was wanting to make sure where I was going next before buying one.

 

[Metonym]

Thank you, Johnnie. I will check out her site!

 

[sailorman]

Look for the ego-V or kgo-V (same thing). They're VV, with a battery indicator and 2 simple buttons to adjust from 3 to 6 volts. They come with a passthrough so you can charge them and use them at the same time, unlike the ego Twist. They're inexpensive, not overly large and dead simple to use. Add a Vivi Nova 2 with a "beauty collar" if you wish. That holds 2ml and is rebuildable, but you don't have to rebuild it because you can get replacement heads for a couple $ and they just twist on. They are also available in colors. So, there you go. For about $35 or so, you can meet all the requirements of your list and have a great performing, hassle free vaping machine. As for brands, the ego-V is made by SLB, which is every bit as reputable as Joye.

 

[Ryedan]

I do have the Joyetech brand and labeling on the system and it did come with two batteries in the starter kit but I don't know what size the battery is. I bought it from esmokeronline.com (I think - has their site changed - it looks different to me now) but I think they carry more than one size kit. I have been charging one at home and leaving the house with the other but a couple of times at work, I didn't engage the "safety" and when I went to use it, there was no power.

OK, you have either the 650 mAh bats ($75 on the site) or the 900 (a bit more expensive). General rule of thumb is 100 mAh last you about an hour of vape time, depending of course on how often you vape. I started with the 650 kit and still use it when I want a small pv to take out and about with me.

I'm not real sure what you mean by 'I have been charging one at home and leaving the house with the other'. If you are leaving one on charge when you leave the house, please be aware that if the charger does not stop charging when the battery is full, the battery will start getting hot and will eventually burn and/or explode.

I assume the safety you are referring to is the 5 clicks to turn it off feature. That's easy to fix, just start using it

I think you have two good batteries that you can still get a lot of great use out of. Leaving the house with two charged batteries gives you 12 hours minimum of vape time.

 

[Ryedan]

A larger volume of juice - I hate refilling these little cartridge things but after my experience with the 510, I am afraid of those with all the coils and wires and areas that you can never, ever, ever touch with the juice or you'll fry it, suck it, or burn it. I am willing to learn but I want something that is not too complex. When I see those tanks/cartos that you can rebuild, I just freeze up thinking about rebuilding it. I think I'd be willing to use it like it's disposable even though you can rebuild it.

VV/VW - I am just beginning to understand this one but having never tried anything but the out of the box eGo-C battery, I don't know if I need this. I do think that if I spend a bit of cash on something new, that it should include the latest technology so if I did this, I would want something that had a menu, battery life indicator and more than one button to scroll through (See, I do read this board!).

Aesthetics - I'm a girl. I like pretty. I also like cool. Sleek. Badass. Upscale. I do not need it to be discreet (like an analog) but I also don't want it to be a foot long or so fat I can't get my hand around it. (No innuendo intended but I just couldn't think of another way to say it.)

Lastly, I think the reason I am so stumped is not knowing how all these pieces fit together. Will the tank/cartomizer, atomizer, etc. fit on the base. Which ones need an adapter, extra ring, sleeve, cone, etc.?

The batteries you have as well as the Twist's have 510 and eGo connections. That means you can screw any 510 device on them like the Vivi Nova or a 510 cartomizer in a tank and also any eGo device like the clearos - CE4, CE5, Kanger T2 and the Kanger T3. All of them are worth while. Juice capacities will be up from about 1 ml with the eGo-C to 1.6 ml with a lot of the clearos (CE.x's), more than 2 with the T2 and T3 and the sky is the limit with tanks!

VV is nice, but you don't have to have it to vape happy. The Twist or Spinner are probably the most cost effective ways to try VV.

If you want to stick with the batteries you have, chose juice delivery systems at 1.8 to 2.2 ohms. If you buy a VV battery you can go higher, but if you want backwards compatibility with what you have now I suggest staying the same.

If aesthetics is really important to you, I'm the wrong person to make any suggestions. It's never been any kind of priority for me so I'm uninformed about it. I do however suggest you might find it benneficial to get a bit more vaping experience under your belt before you spring for something expensive that you may find in a few months was really not the right direction for you.

Best of luck with it!

 

[gingersnapbear]

If your eGo batteries are working fine, then stick with them. Vaporskinz makes covers for them that are pretty, if that's what you want. As it's already been stated, bring both batteries with you. I always have at least one backup with me at all times. The last thing that I want to do is go back to a cigarette. The only way for me to insure this is to have working equipment with me at all times. A carrying case in your purse or bag is simple. Even a cosmetic case would do.

All eGo batteries are the same threads. 510. If your carts, clearos, or tanks fit on your eGo, they'll be fine with other 510 threaded mods. Read up on the forum regarding different mods if you want something bigger and badder.

 

[KraKsX]

Ego twist 650-900 - pink? Purple?
Kanger t3

Super simple, long use, and sexy sleek

 

[Baditude]

what's important to me.

A larger volume of juice

A longer battery life

VV/VW - I am just beginning to understand this one but having never tried anything but the out of the box eGo-C battery, I don't know if I need this. I do think that if I spend a bit of cash on something new, that it should include the latest technology so if I did this, I would want something that had a menu, battery life indicator and more than one button to scroll through (See, I do read this board!).

Aesthetics - I'm a girl. I like pretty. I also like cool. Sleek. Badass. Upscale. I do not need it to be discreet (like an analog) but I also don't want it to be a foot long or so fat I can't get my hand around it.

You may wish to view the following thread for ideas of "pretty" batteries and battery holder devices: http://www.e-cigarette-forum.com/forum/general-e-smoking-discussion/323314-show-us-your-girly-pretty-decorated-pink.html

I recommend an advanced personal vaporizer (mod) that uses replaceable, rechargeable batteries for longer battery life. You will only need to carry one battery holder device, and carry a spare battery as needed. The eGo that you have can serve as a backup to the APV. Some of the eGo batteries will give you longer battery times, too, but they will be extremely long in size by the time you place a tank or other juice device on top of them. The below APV's will be thicker, but not as long.

For what to put your juice in to to create vapor on top of your battery, view this picture dictionary I made: http://www.e-cigarette-forum.com/forum/cartomizers/343294-proper-terminology-carto-tank-what-lol.html#post7562212

AltSmoke.com | Personal Vaporizers | Electronic Cigarette | Ecigs | The BB - The BB - Starter Kits
Above are Altsmoke BB's. Moderately small single voltage battery carrier that uses a replaceable rechargeable battery the size of a AA battery that will provide around 7 hours of straight vaping. Easy to carry an extra battery or two for all day use. Made of heavier grade aluminum and finely machined so will take some abuse. USA made; manufacturer will continue to service for reasonable fee even after warranty. $85
14500 batteries are $10 each. AltSmoke.com | Personal Vaporizers | Electronic Cigarette | Ecigs | AW 14500 Protected 750 mAh Rechargeable Lithium Battery
Charger $18 AltSmoke.com | Personal Vaporizers | Electronic Cigarette | Ecigs | XTAR WP2 II Charger - Chargers - Accessories

AltSmoke.com | Personal Vaporizers | Electronic Cigarette | Ecigs | Silver Bullet - Silver Bullet - Starter Kits
Above are Altsmoke Silver Bullets, with Hoosier Vapes Bella cartomizer tanks. Both battery carrier and cartomizer tanks come in a variety of colors. The Silver Bullet is larger than the BB, a little on the hefty side, but even more durable. Same fine manufacturing, and one of the best power switches in vaping. Single voltage, but a Kick circuit board can be added to the inside of the case to allow variable voltage if you so choose. Uses a larger battery that can last all day and into the next. Also $85.
18650 battery $19 AltSmoke.com | Personal Vaporizers | Electronic Cigarette | Ecigs | AW 18650 Protected 3100 mAh Rechargeable Lithium Battery
Same battery recharger as above.


Smoktech Gripper VV
Smoktech Variable Voltage Gripper is about the size of a pack of cigarettes, extremely light and comfortable to hold. Made of impact resistant plastic with rubberized coating. Variable voltage to allow voltage from 3.0v to 6 volts to adjust for different flavors. Voltage and ohm meter built in. Does a lot in a small package. Comes in black or white, but I've been unable to find a vendor that sells the white. Made in China, so once the warranty has expired you'll need another mod if it breaks. Uses an 18650 imr battery that will last all day. The V.V. Gripper is only $50 or less from various vendors, some available in a starter's kit.


ProVari Mini Variable Voltage Ecig: Best Variable Voltage E Cig Available!
The Provari Mini by Provape is the Cadilac of variable voltage mods. Known for its durable stainless steel body and fine machining, this is one of the toughest mods made and is built for the long haul. USA made, 1 yr warranty (option to purchase another year at time of sale), great customer service reputation, also can be serviced after warranty. Variable voltage 3.0v to 6 volts. Built in battery voltage checker and ohm reader. Patented Accuset technology will provide the precise voltage that you set for the battery's entire charge. Uses an 18350 battery ($9) for 8 hours of vape time, an extension cap is available to use the larger 18490 battery $11) for 4 additional hours. One of the safest e-cigs made. $185 for colored models, without battery. Available in a starters kit.

 

[Moofaso]

Welcome to ECF !

 

[Metonym]

Thank you, Baditude, so much for the time put into this post. I have seen the Provari before but was hesitant to commit to the variable voltage in that price range without knowing whether I even liked it as an option. However, you gave several other options at lower price points that would work for me to try first prior to me making an investment. The Hoosier tanks are beautiful so I will definitely be looking at those and the thread you suggested. Also, thanks for the nomenclature education on the tanks, cartos - I needed that!

Right now, I am leaning toward a combination of several of the suggestions from my post. I think if I charge/use my current batteries correctly, I could see keeping them as backup or for home use or for that special dessert flavor. Having a mod with replaceable/rechargeable batteries also sounds great since I can drop one or two down in my purse just in case. I am also considering the eGo-V that was suggested so that I have something for the car, road trips, etc. and as an opportunity to try the variable voltage.

You all are awesome for taking the time to answer and for not flaming me about reading the boards - there is just so much info and making sense of it just sometimes requires a direct response!

 

[Metonym]

Just wanted to add that I loved the thread link with all the glitz setups and mods! I've decided that it's not really all that critical to choose the ONE RIGHT setup this time around when I can actually have a collection!!! Thanks! (I think).

 

[BikerBob]

Hi! Welcome to ECF!

Looks like you have a rough idea of what you're looking for.

Holding more liquid: A clearomizer, perhaps? Some can hold 2-3 ml or more. Or a cartomizer/tank (same as your cartomizer, but with a hole in the side, surrounded by a liquid-filled reservoir--3-6 ml, or larger) When it gets worn out/burnt tasting, you can remove the old carto, and put in a new one, no rewiring needed.

Longer battery life? My starter kit came with 2, and I bought a 3rd. Charge one as soon as it's dead, and still have one to use, and the 3rd for when the 2nd goes dead before the 1st finishes charging. Ego's come in several sizes, so you could get a larger one than you currently have. I have a couple of eGo VV 'pass thru's, on lanyards. Sitting here with one around my next, plugged in to charge while I use it and type this response. Just need to remember to unplug it when I go to refill my coffee cup. If I need to run an errand, it's already charged and ready to go. Was available in pink, but I preferred the 'stainless' look. I also have an eGo-T upgrade battery

That's a quick 'fill in the gaps in the starter kit', and should hold you while you look at the myriad of options.