Verdampfer & Coils

Coil - vaporiser head of the e-cigarette explained clearly

Coil guide for e-cigarettes: function of the vaporiser head, signs for replacement and tips on what to look out for when buying coils in Switzerland.

The coil is the heart of every e-cigarette and determines how your e-liquid tastes, how much vapour is produced, and how long your setup will run reliably. If the taste suddenly becomes harsh, the vapour output decreases, or a burnt taste develops, this is almost always down to the coil. In this guide, you’ll learn about the technical structure of a coil, how to choose the right one, when you need to replace it, and what to look out for when buying an atomiser head in Switzerland – regardless of whether you use a pod system, a sub-ohm tank or a starter kit.

A coil (also known as a heating element) is the replaceable unit in the tank or pod that converts the e-liquid into vapour. It consists of three core elements: a wire winding (usually Kanthal, stainless steel or nickel), an absorbent cotton wick and a metal housing with airflow holes.

As soon as you inhale, current flows from the battery through the coil. This heats up to 180–250 °C within milliseconds and vaporises the e-liquid that the cotton has drawn from the tank. The coil is therefore both an energy converter and a wicking system in one.

It is important to distinguish this from related terms: a ‘coil’ in the strict sense refers only to the wire winding, but in everyday vaping terminology the term denotes the complete replaceable unit, including wick and housing. Not to be confused with the atomiser itself – that is the entire tank into which the coil is screwed.

The resistance of the winding – measured in ohms (Ω) – determines how much current flows and how hot the coil gets. Broadly speaking, there are two main types:

MTL coils (mouth-to-lung)

Resistances of 1.0–1.8 Ω, power 10–20 watts. These coils mimic the draw of a cigarette, are suitable for nicotine-containing e-liquids with a high PG content, and are typical of pod systems and starter kits.

DL coils (Direct Lung / Sub-Ohm)

Resistances below 1.0 Ω, often 0.15–0.6 Ω, power 30–80 watts. They produce a lot of vapour, require VG-rich e-liquids (short fills) and deliver an intense flavour – ideal for experienced vapers using mod devices.

Most modern coils use mesh windings instead of classic round-wire spirals. Mesh heats up more evenly, delivers a clean flavour and generally lasts longer.

A suitable coil stands or falls on compatibility. You should check these points before buying a coil:

Compatibility with your tank or pod: Every manufacturer uses their own threads and designs. Make a note of the tank model and coil designation (e.g. ‘GTX 0.4 Ω’, ‘RPM 0.6 Ω’).
Choose a resistance suitable for the wattage: Each coil has a recommended wattage range. 25 W on a 1.2 Ω MTL coil will burn the cotton immediately.
Consider the e-liquid type: Nicotine salt e-liquids and 50/50 blends work with MTL coils. VG-heavy short fills (70/30 or 80/20) require sub-ohm coils with larger airflow openings.
Buy a multipack: Coils are consumables. A pack of 3–5 pieces will last two to three months, depending on usage.
Choose a reputable source: Make sure you buy genuine products. Counterfeit coils often have incorrect resistance ratings, which can lead to safety issues with the battery.

Typical lifespan: A coil lasts between 5 and 21 days – depending on the e-liquid (sweet, sweetened flavours ‘go off’ more quickly), power setting and vaping style. When changing the coil, follow these steps: before your first vape, drip e-liquid onto the cotton wick, screw in the coil, fill the tank and let it soak in for at least 5 minutes. Only then should you gradually burn it in at a low power setting.

How do I know when I need to change the coil?

Typical signs include a burnt or charred taste, significantly less vapour, a leaking tank or a darkly discoloured cotton wick. A change is definitely needed at the latest when you experience a ‘dry hit’ taste.

Can I use any coil in any tank?

No. Coils are manufacturer-specific and are often even limited to certain tank series. Check the exact model name of your vaporiser before ordering a replacement.

How long does a coil usually last?

Depending on the e-liquid and usage, one to three weeks. Sweetened flavours and high wattages significantly shorten the lifespan, whilst clear e-liquids and MTL vaping extend it.

What does ‘burning in the coil’ mean?

After inserting the coil, you need to saturate it with e-liquid for a few minutes and then take your first puffs at increasing power settings so that the cotton soaks evenly and the flavour becomes clean.

The e-cigarette coil determines the flavour, vapour production and reliability of your setup more than any other component. By choosing the right resistance, the correct wattage range and compatible models, and changing the coil in good time, you can vape consistently, cleanly and safely. In our selection of coils and atomiser heads, you’ll find replacements for popular tanks and pods – with matching e-liquids and tank accessories available too. Take your time to compare which coil across Switzerland is right for your device.