IQOS

Oct 13, 2023

How do vapes work and what are the differences from IQOS?

Vapes have emerged as an alternative to traditional tobacco. But what really is a vape and what is the difference between them and e-cigarettes? What about IQOS devices? In this article, we will explore the world of vapes, from their basic operation, their components and the differences with other alternatives to traditional cigarettes, such as electronic cigarettes and IQOS devices.

What is a vape? Differences between vapes and electronic cigarettes

In the world of alternatives to traditional tobacco, the terms e-cigarettes and vapes are often used indistinctly, which can lead to some confusion. It is important to clarify the key differences between the two types of devices:
The main difference lies in terminology: the term e-cigarettes encompass all electronic devices designed to vaporize substances, such as e-liquid, containing nicotine and flavors. E-cigarettes and vapes come in different shapes and sizes, but all share the common goal of providing an alternative experience to traditional tobacco, without using tobacco or burning it.

Differences between vapes and IQOS ILUMA devices

IQOS
There are fundamental differences between vapes and IQOS, in terms of operation, technology and composition.
  1. Operation
    One of the most notable differences between vapes and IQOS ILUMA devices lies in their operation:
    • Vapes work by vaporizing a liquid solution known as e-liquid or vape juice. This liquid, which may contain flavors and nicotine, is heated by a heating element, turning it into vapor that is then inhaled. 
    • IQOS ILUMA devices, on the other hand, use tobacco heating technology specifically designed for them, known as the SMARTCORE INDUCTION SYSTEM™. These devices heat tobacco units to temperatures lower than those reached during combustion. This produces an aerosol containing nicotine and flavor, which is then inhaled.
  2. Technology and design
    The technology and design of vapes and IQOS devices also present notable differences:
    • Vapes use electronic components, such as batteries and resistors, to vaporize vape juice. They are available in a wide variety of types and styles, from pen-style devices to mod-style vapes.
    • IQOS ILUMA devices are specifically designed to heat tobacco without burning it. They use induction heating technology to achieve this, ensuring that the tobacco units reach an optimal temperature to release the aerosol without generating smoke or ash.
  3. Product composition
    Another important difference lies in the composition of the two products.
    • Vapes generate e-liquid vapor, which may contain flavors and, in some cases, nicotine.
    • IQOS ILUMA devices heat tobacco units designed specifically for this purpose. The aerosol released contains nicotine, but the absence of combustion causes the device to emit, on average, 95% lower levels of harmful chemicals compared to cigarettes.
Important information: This does not necessarily imply a 95% reduction in risk. IQOS ILUMA is not risk-free.

IQOS, a great alternative to nicotine vapes

In the search for alternatives to traditional cigarettes, both vapes and IQOS devices are valid options for adult smokers looking for a better alternative to burning tobacco, the release of smoke and, therefore, the harmful substances it emits. However, IQOS ILUMA devices offer a unique approach that could be considered as an excellent alternative to nicotine vapes.
Much of this unique insight is thanks to the unique advantages offered by IQOS devices, such as the innovative SMARTCORE INDUCTION SYSTEM™ and IQOS HeatControl™ technologies, uniquely designed to provide you with an unparalleled tobacco heating experience.
More than 19.4 million adult smokers have stopped burning tobacco and switched to heating tobacco with IQOS*. What are you waiting for?
*Source: PMI financial data or estimates (excluding Russia and Ukraine), IQOS user panel and PMI market research. Data updated as of June 2023. IQOS users who have stopped smoking cigarettes completely and for whom PMI's heating tobacco units account for at least 70% of their heating tobacco consumption in the last 7 days.