How to Choose the Right Vape Tank in 2026 (Complete UK Guide)

Choosing the right vape tank can completely change your vaping experience. Whether you're a beginner switching from smoking or an experienced vaper chasing better flavour or bigger clouds, the tank you use plays a major role in performance.

A good vape tank improves:

• Flavour delivery

• Vapour production

• Smoothness of draw

• Leak resistance

• Overall satisfaction

In this guide, we’ll help you understand how to choose the best vape tank based on your needs.

What Does a Vape Tank Do?

A vape tank is one of the most important parts of any vape device.

It is responsible for:

• Holding your e-liquid

• Housing the coil

• Controlling airflow

• Converting liquid into vapour

The quality and type of tank directly impact flavour strength and cloud production.

Types of Vape Tanks

Also Read: How Different Are MTL Tanks from Sub Ohm Tanks?

MTL (Mouth-to-Lung) Tanks

MTL tanks are designed to mimic the sensation of smoking a cigarette.

They provide:

• Tighter airflow

• Smoother throat hit

• Lower vapour output

Perfect for:

• Beginners

• Ex-smokers

• Nic salt users

DTL (Direct-to-Lung) Tanks

DTL tanks are built for performance.

They offer:

• Open airflow

• Bigger vapour clouds

• Stronger flavour intensity

Ideal for:

• Cloud lovers

• Advanced users

• High VG e-liquid users

These are often known as sub-ohm vape tanks.

Rebuildable Tanks (RTA / RDA / RDTA)

These tanks are designed for experienced users who prefer custom setups.

They allow:

• Coil building

• Custom resistance

• Personalised performance

Best for advanced vapers only.

Key Features to Look For

Tank Capacity

In the UK, TPD-compliant tanks typically come in 2ml capacity.

Benefits:

• Legal compliance

• Compact design

• Easy refilling

Coil Compatibility

Modern tanks often use:

• Mesh coils for better flavour

• Replaceable coils for convenience

Mesh coil tanks are known for:

• Even heating

• Rich taste

• Longer lifespan

Airflow Control

Airflow affects how your vape feels.

• Top airflow → Leak resistant

• Bottom airflow → Stronger flavour

Adjustable airflow tanks let you customise your experience.

Leak Resistance

Look for:

• Top-fill design

• Secure seals

• Anti-leak airflow systems

Leak-proof tanks save both e-liquid and maintenance effort.

Best Vape Tank Based on User Type

Choosing a Tank Based on E-Liquid

Your liquid matters when selecting a tank.

• Nic Salts → Best with MTL tanks

• High VG Liquids → Best with sub-ohm tanks

Using the wrong tank can cause:

• Leaks

• Burnt coils

• Poor vapour production

How to Maintain Your Vape Tank

Proper maintenance improves lifespan and performance.

Cleaning

Clean your tank weekly to:

• Avoid flavour mixing

• Improve vapour quality

Coil Replacement

Replace coils when you notice:

• Burnt taste

• Reduced vapour

• Weak flavour

Avoid Overfilling

Overfilling can cause:

• Leaks

• Gurgling

• Spitback

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using the wrong coil resistance

• Filling with unsuitable e-liquid

• Ignoring airflow settings

• Not priming coils properly

These mistakes often lead to leaking or burnt hits.

Final Buying Tips

Before buying a vape tank, consider:

✔ Your vaping style
✔ E-liquid type
✔ Airflow preference
✔ Maintenance effort

Always choose TPD-compliant vape tanks for UK use.

FAQs

Which vape tank gives the best flavour?
Mesh coil tanks are known for delivering rich and consistent flavour.

How long does a vape tank last?
A good tank can last months or even years with proper maintenance.

Are sub-ohm tanks better?
They are better for clouds and high VG liquids, but not ideal for beginners.

Can I use nic salts in any tank?
Nic salts work best in MTL tanks with higher resistance coils.

References

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/e-cigarettes-regulations-for-consumer-products

https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/quit-smoking/using-e-cigarettes-to-stop-smoking/