Alien Coil - structure, function and advantages of the complex coil

The Alien Coil belongs to the so-called ‘fancy coils’ and is a further development of the Clapton coil. Whilst with the Clapton a thin wire is wound evenly around a single core wire, an Alien coil usually consists of three or four parallel core wires. The thin outer wire is then wrapped under tension around this bundle in such a way that it is pressed into the gaps between the core wires. Once the tension is released, a characteristic, wavy surface emerges – the eponymous ‘Alien’ structure.

This Alien coil significantly increases the total surface area of the coil. More surface area means more contact with the e-liquid in the cotton, resulting in faster, more consistent vapour production. Typical materials include Kanthal A1, Nichrome 80 or 316L stainless steel. Core wires are usually 0.3 to 0.4 mm in diameter, whilst the outer wire is 0.1 to 0.12 mm. The result: a visually striking, high-performance rebuildable coil that clearly stands out from standard round coils.

In a rebuildable atomiser, the Alien Coil sits between two terminals and is packed with cotton. As soon as you fire it, electricity flows through the wires, the resistance generates heat, and the e-liquid on the cotton wick vapourises. The jagged surface of the Alien coil creates a particularly high number of hotspots where e-liquid vapourises more quickly – this ensures the more intense flavour for which these coil types are known.

Typical applications

Alien coils are mostly used in sub-ohm rebuildables or RDAs for direct-to-lung vaping. Typical resistances range from 0.15 to 0.4 ohms, with power settings typically between 50 and 100 watts per dual-Alien setup. They are usually oversized for mouth-to-lung vaping.

Differences from other coils

A Clapton coil already offers more surface area than a round coil, but remains smoother and quieter. The Fused Clapton lies somewhere in between. The Alien coil is the most complex of the common variants – more flavour, but also higher e-liquid consumption and a longer heat-up time.

You can get Alien Coils either pre-built or as wire on a spool for self-building. Both have their merits – the important thing is that the material, resistance and your mod are compatible.

• Check the material: Kanthal is beginner-friendly and can only be used in wattage mode. 316L stainless steel also works in temperature control mode. Nichrome heats up faster, but cannot withstand overheating.
• Match resistance and battery: A Dual Alien build with 0.15 ohms draws around 23 amps at 80 watts. Your batteries must be able to safely handle this continuous current load (CDR) – otherwise there is a risk of overloading.
• Use a winding tool: Alien coils are difficult to build neatly without a winding rod. A coil jig or winding aid with an inner diameter of 2.5 to 3 mm is standard.
• Insert the wick correctly: Pull the organic cotton through loosely; do not stuff it in. Too little cotton dries out, too much prevents the e-liquid from flowing through.
• Clean regularly: Residue builds up more quickly on the rugged surface of the Alien coil. Dry-burning at low power and brushing off the residue noticeably extends the coil’s lifespan.

A common mistake: starting at too high a wattage. After installation, start at 20 to 30 watts, check for even glow from the inside out, and increase the wattage gradually.

Is an Alien coil suitable for beginners?

To a certain extent. The winding process itself is advanced and requires practice, tools and a basic understanding of Ohm’s law and battery safety. Beginners are better off starting with ready-made Alien coils or a simple round coil and working their way up.

What is the difference between an Alien coil and a Clapton coil?

With a Clapton coil, a thin wire is wound around a single core wire. The Alien uses multiple core wires, and the outer wire sinks in between them. The result is more surface area, more flavour and a more distinctive vapour production.

How long does an Alien coil last?

Depending on the e-liquid and wattage, one to three weeks. Sweet, strongly flavoured e-liquids shorten the lifespan because sugar burns off more quickly. You should change the cotton every few days, and burn off or replace the coil when the flavour starts to fade.

What resistance is typical for Alien coils?

Single Aliens are usually between 0.3 and 0.5 ohms, dual builds between 0.1 and 0.25 ohms. The crucial factor is that your mod and batteries can safely deliver the resulting current.

An Alien coil is not a beginner’s project, but it rewards you with noticeably more flavour and vapour volume once the winding technique, resistance and battery setup are right. Anyone who has mastered the basics of building their own coils and values flavour will find this coil one of the most versatile types. In our range of coils and build wire, you can compare different variants, add suitable accessories and work your way step by step towards more complex builds.