IQOS

31 Oct 2023

What are the differences between tobacco heating devices and vapes?

As we have already explored in other articles, two of the most popular alternatives to traditional tobacco are tobacco heating devices and vapes. They may seem similar on the surface, many may even think they are the same, but they have fundamental differences that we will address in this article. Continue reading to find out more about heated tobacco products!

Key differences between tobacco heating devices and vapes

Diagram with the differences between IQOS ILUMA and vapers
To have a better understanding of the various alternatives to traditional tobacco and to know which of the two best suits your needs, it is important to understand the key differences between tobacco heating devices and vapes:

Vaporizing vs. heating

This first difference between vapes and heated tobacco products is in the release processes of the components. Vaporizing and heating are not the same thing.
Vapes use e-liquids which are heated by means of an electrical resistance inside the device, generating vapor instead of smoke. Since this process does not lead to combustion, it significantly reduces exposure to harmful chemicals released during inhalation.
On the other hand, tobacco heating devices are used with tobacco units that are specially manufactured and are heated by a controlled induction process. This process does not reach the high combustion temperatures of traditional cigarettes, preventing the release of smoke and thus also significantly reducing exposure to harmful chemicals.

Design and appearance

Design and appearance are features that are also where vapes differ from tobacco heating devices.
Vapes are available in a multitude of designs, shapes and colors. They are generally small, elongated devices and have a mouthpiece at one end, where the vapor is inhaled.
Tobacco heating devices are also available in different shapes and colors. These are protected by a compact external case (pocket charger) that protects and charges the tobacco heating device. These devices have a small slot, where the tobacco unit is inserted for heating.

Choose the IQOS ILUMA device that suits you best and customize it!

IQOS
Our latest tobacco heating device is called IQOS ILUMA, and it is available in three different models: IQOS ILUMA, IQOS ILUMA ONE and IQOS ILUMA PRIME. Do you want to know their differences? We'll tell you all about it!
  • IQOS ILUMA PRIME: is the most advanced device in the ILUMA range, and it offers two consecutive uses with one refill of the holder. It is available in four colors: obsidian black, golden khaki, bronze taupe and jade green.
  • IQOS ILUMA: the iconic IQOS design. It has 2 consecutive uses with one refill of the holder and you can choose the one you like among five colors: azure blue, sunset red, pebble grey, pebble beige and moss green.
  • IQOS ILUMA ONE: our all-in-one device: pocket charger and device in one. More compact and smaller than the other two. It is available in five colors and provides 20 consecutive uses per charge.
Now that you know the main differences between the IQOS ILUMA models, you just have to choose the one you like the most and also best suits your needs. Remember that you can customize your IQOS ILUMA device as you prefer with different accessories: cases, wraps, sleeves and ring sets.