Finished coil - choose the right vaporiser head

A pre-built coil – often also called a pre-built atomiser or simply an atomiser head – is a replaceable heating unit for tank atomisers. It consists of a metal housing, one or more heating coils made of Kanthal, stainless steel, nickel or mesh, and cotton wick. When electricity is applied, the wire heats up, the cotton wick releases e-liquid, and vapour is produced.

Unlike rebuildable atomisers (RBA/RDA), there is no assembly required: the pre-built coil is calibrated, pre-tested and has a defined resistance in ohms as well as a recommended power range in watts, which is stamped onto the housing. Typical values range between 0.15 Ω and 1.2 Ω, depending on whether the head is designed for direct lung vaping (DL) or mouth-to-lung vaping (MTL). Each manufacturer uses its own designs, which is why a coil usually only fits a specific tank series.

As soon as you fill the tank, the cotton wicks e-liquid through the side openings of the coil. When you press the fire button, electricity flows from the battery through the heating coil, which reaches vapourisation temperature in a fraction of a second. The e-liquid vapourises, and you inhale flavour and nicotine – if present.

MTL coils for mouth-to-lung vapers

Coils with 0.8 to 1.2 Ω at 10–18 watts are suitable for a tight draw, similar to a cigarette. They are compatible with nicotine salt e-liquids and pod systems.

DL coils for direct lung vaping

Sub-ohm coils with 0.15 to 0.4 Ω run at 40–80 watts and produce large clouds of vapour. They are suitable for short fills with a high VG content.

Mesh coils

Instead of a wound coil, a fine wire mesh is used. This increases the heating surface, ensures a more consistent flavour and noticeably extends the coil’s lifespan.

Anyone looking for a replacement coil often runs into problems with compatibility or incorrect resistance. These points will help you make the right choice:

• Check compatibility: The coil must fit your tank exactly. Make a note of the tank model and series (e.g. GTX, PnP, Z-Coil). There are no universal pre-built coils.
• Choose resistance to match power: Note the wattage range on the coil. Running a 0.2-Ω coil at 15 watts produces hardly any vapour; conversely, a 1.0-Ω coil will burn out immediately at 40 watts.
• Consider the e-liquid type: A high VG content (70/30) requires larger wicking holes, so tends to be sub-ohm. Nicotine salts work better with MTL coils above 0.6 Ω.
• Buy a multipack: A coil lasts between 5 and 20 days, depending on usage. A pack of 3 or 5 saves you from running out.
• Don’t forget to burn-in: Let new coils soak up the e-liquid for 5 to 10 minutes and take the first few puffs at reduced power. This prevents a burnt taste.

Avoid cheap no-name knock-offs: They vary in resistance, may leak or taste unpleasant. Stick to original coils from the tank manufacturer.

How long does a pre-built coil last?

With moderate use and a clear e-liquid, you can expect it to last 7 to 14 days. Highly sweetened flavours shorten the lifespan to just a few days, as the sugar caramelises on the coil and sticks the cotton together.

How can I tell when the atomiser head needs changing?

Typical signs include a harsh or burnt taste, significantly less vapour, gurgling noises, or a dark, sometimes black coating on the cotton. By then at the latest, it’s worth replacing it.

Can I use different coils in the same tank?

Yes, provided they are compatible with the tank series. Many tanks accept multiple resistances – for example, 0.3 Ω for DL and 0.8 Ω for MTL. Check the manufacturer’s specifications and adjust the wattage after each change.

Do I have to empty the tank when changing the coil?

Not necessarily. With a bit of practice, modern sub-ohm tanks can be changed whilst they are half-full. However, it is cleaner and tastes better to empty the tank, rinse it out and then refill it.

A suitable pre-built coil determines the flavour, vapour production and reliability of your e-cigarette. Pay attention to tank compatibility, the specified wattage range and the correct e-liquid ratio, and you’ll get the most out of every setup. In our selection of pre-built coils and atomiser heads, you’ll find the popular ranges from well-known tank manufacturers. If you want to rethink your entire setup, have a browse through the atomisers as well and take your time comparing which combination best suits your vaping style.