When it comes to vaping, the type of coil you use significantly impacts your experience. Coils are responsible for heating the e-liquid and producing both flavour and vapour, making them a crucial component of any vaping device. Traditional wire coils have long been the standard, but in recent years, mesh coil technology has revolutionized the industry. There are a lot of factors involved in comparing these 2 coil options, so this article is your definitive guide if you are wondering about Mesh vs Wire Coils.
In this guide, we’ll explore the differences between mesh and wire coils, highlighting how mesh technology enhances flavour and vapour production while providing a smoother, more consistent vape.
1. Understanding Traditional Wire Coils
1.1 What Are Wire Coils?
Wire coils are made from various metals, such as:
✔ Kanthal – Most common, durable, and affordable.
✔ Nichrome – Heats faster than Kanthal, with a slightly softer structure.
✔ Stainless Steel – Versatile, works with both wattage and temperature control modes.
1.2 How Wire Coils Work
Wire coils heat up when electricity passes through them, vaporizing the e-liquid absorbed by the wicking material (usually cotton). However, their cylindrical shape means heat is concentrated in specific areas, leading to uneven vaporization.
1.3 Common Issues with Wire Coils
✔ Slow Ramp-Up Time – Takes longer to heat up fully.
✔ Uneven Heating – Hot spots can burn the wick, affecting flavour.
✔ Shorter Lifespan – Buildup of residue leads to a quicker decline in performance.
2. What Is Mesh Coil Technology?
Mesh coils replace traditional wire coils with a metal mesh sheet, offering a wider and flatter heating surface. These coils are commonly made from stainless steel or Kanthal, similar to wire coils, but their unique structure enhances performance.
2.1 Key Differences Between Mesh and Wire Coils
✔ Mesh coils have a larger surface area – Covers more e-liquid for even heating.
✔ Faster heating – Instant vapour production compared to wire coils.
✔ More efficient wicking – Reduces dry hits and coil burnout.
✔ More consistent vapour production – Eliminates hot spots that affect flavour.
3. Benefits of Mesh Coils
3.1 Enhanced Flavour
✔ The even heating of mesh coils allows for a more consistent and richer flavour experience.
✔ No hot spots mean fewer burnt hits, preserving e-liquid taste.
✔ Ideal for flavour-chasing vapers using dessert, fruit, or complex e-liquids.
3.2 Bigger Vapour Production
✔ Larger surface area means more e-liquid is vaporized at once, resulting in denser, more voluminous clouds.
✔ Perfect for cloud chasers and direct lung (DL) vapers.
3.3 Longer Coil Lifespan
✔ Even heat distribution prevents localized overheating, which extends coil life.
✔ Mesh coils are less likely to burn out quickly compared to traditional wire coils.
3.4 Faster Ramp-Up Time
✔ Mesh coils heat up instantly, delivering vapour immediately upon inhaling.
✔ Ideal for vapers who prefer quick, satisfying draws.
3.5 Reduced Dry Hits
✔ Mesh coils provide better wicking efficiency, ensuring that e-liquid is evenly absorbed.
✔ Prevents the cotton from drying out and reduces the chances of experiencing a burnt hit.
4. Mesh vs. Wire Coils: Which One is Best for You?
4.1 For Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) Vapers
✔ Wire coils are still popular for MTL setups, as they offer a tighter draw similar to cigarettes.
✔ However, mesh coils designed for MTL devices are emerging, providing a smoother experience with enhanced flavour.
4.2 For Direct Lung (DL) Vapers & Sub-Ohm Users
✔ Mesh coils dominate the sub-ohm market due to superior vapour production and smooth airflow.
✔ Ideal for high-wattage vaping and low-nicotine e-liquids.
4.3 For Nicotine Salts vs. Freebase Nicotine
✔ Nicotine salts – Work better with wire coils or low-wattage mesh coils in pod systems.
✔ Freebase nicotine – Works exceptionally well with mesh coils in high-power devices.
5. Are Mesh Coils the Right Choice for You?
✔ Choose Mesh Coils If:
- You want better flavour and vapour production.
- You use sub-ohm tanks or direct lung vaping.
- You prefer fast ramp-up time and a longer coil lifespan.
✔ Stick with Wire Coils If:
- You vape at lower wattages and prefer mouth-to-lung vaping.
- You use nicotine salts in pod systems.
- You prefer a tighter draw with a more cigarette-like experience.
Mesh coil technology has transformed the vaping experience by providing superior flavour, bigger clouds, and a longer coil lifespan. While traditional wire coils still have their place in lower-powered and MTL devices, mesh coils are the go-to choice for vapers looking for enhanced performance and satisfaction.
💬 Have you tried mesh coils? Share your experience in the comments below!
