The simple answer is, it depends on you. Although you wouldn’t have this problem when you’re using those portable vaporizers like DaVinciVaporizer.com because they have precision temp controls. There are different consequences of adjusting both wattage and voltage. Many experienced e-cig users will adjust both wattage and voltage in a balancing act to produce the precise type of hit they desire; however that is really only doable on the very high-end models that take a lot of knowledge and time in the hobby. Here’s a quick guide to remember how each is different from the other.
We’re going to dip into the science of vaping. There are going to be terms thrown around like voltage, wattage, ohms and resistance which require that you already have a grasp on how electronic cigarettes function on a basic level. Simply put, they run electric current through a coiled wire to heat it and any liquid near it that may or may not contain nicotine, thereby breaking the bonds of the liquid and creating a vapor laden with nicotine or other additives like flavor. An explanation of the scientific principles of electricity and the interrelation of its composing principles can be found here.
Variable Voltage
A variable voltage device will directly increase the heat of the coil, full stop. The hotter the coil, the more vapor and the harsher the throat hit. This is the most direct way to control the heat output of the two options; however, there are a few drawbacks.
The first is that you have to check the resistance of your coil and adjust accordingly. So, if you change tanks or coils, then you have to adjust the voltage so you don’t burn out your coil. In fact, regular adjustment is the most aggravating thing about a variable voltage unit. You also have to adjust the voltage output throughout the day because as the battery weakens, so too will the power output. This means that you’ll have to increase the voltage to get the same hit or settle for increasingly weaker hits throughout the day. However, this unit gives the best control for anyone who’s willing to micromanage.
Variable Wattage
Variable wattage units automatically control the output of voltage. This is due to the fact that wattage is a measurement of voltage and amperage multiplied. Amperage is like a measure of the volume of electricity while voltage is like a measure of pressure. As a battery weakens, there is literally less electricity that is traveling through the coil, but if the voltage is the same, it’s traveling at the same speed or pressure. So, as the battery weakens throughout the day, the amperage drops, thereby decreasing the direct power to the unit if voltage stays static and weakening the heat output of the coil. Whereas variable wattage will set the bar at a certain level and increase the voltage automatically to compensate for the decreasing amperage. This will provide a hands-off way to maintain a similar hit regardless of the power remaining in the battery. For this reason, most vapers prefer to have access to variable wattage once they try it.
Both!
Now, many units come with both types. This is mostly because some users like to use both at one point in time, but they ultimately can’t be used in conjunction. Variable voltage is a great way to test out new tanks, coils or other accessories or fine tune hit preferences, while variable wattage is generally preferable for day-to-day use. However, the main benefits of these combo systems are simply the versatility of them. By allowing customers to choose which system they want to use and switch back and forth as desired, companies are giving the end user more freedom and more control over the vaping experience — which is something that everyone can get behind.
Whether you prefer adjustable wattage or adjustable voltage or both, you will have better control of your vaping experience. The major benefit of variable voltage is more direct control while variable wattage gives a more hands-free experience. If you’re someone who prefers to have direct control, micromanaging, electrical calculations, or simply don’t vape throughout the day then variable voltage is probably more your style. For those who don’t want to think about resistance or simply want as little maintenance of your system as possible variable wattage is up your alley. To each their own and happy vaping.
