What is a 510 thread vape?
The term “510 thread” was originally coined by Joyetech, manufacturer the eGo-T, one of the first vape pen batteries. It was named after the ten 0.5 mm threads featured on tanks, that are compatible with these pens. Today, this 0.5 mm threading is standardized, but it doesn’t necessarily need to have ten threads to be considered 510 compatible.
A 510 thread vape is technically any battery with 510 threading, which happens to be the vape industry standard for most atomizers and tanks. When people say 510 thread battery, these days they are most likely referring to the ones made for use with oil cartridges.
The term 510 thread vape is often used in reference to the entire device, including the tank. The term 510 thread battery refers specifically to the power source which powers the cartridge. Cartridges are slim vape tanks that generally come prefilled. There are also empty cartridges available for filling with your own juice and various other liquids.
Types of 510 thread vapes
Originally 510 batteries were generally pen-shaped, but lately they have been rapidly evolving, taking on a variety of forms that resemble miniature vape mods. Let’s have a look at the different types of 510 vapes available right now and the distinctions between them.
- eGo batteries – eGo-style batteries were some of the first devices used for the early e-cigarette tanks. They are typically dual-threaded to accommodate both classic eGo style and 510 atomizers. eGo batteries usually have a firing button, some of the later models include LED lights on the tip that light up when activated. They generally charge using 510-threaded USB charging units, but some updated versions may feature built-in USB charge ports.
- Classic pen style – The original 510 batteries were slim and lightweight pens that were generally the same width as the average cartridge. Most of them are draw activated, which means you don’t have to push a button to vape. Some utilize buttons to operate. Many of them also feature LED lights that turn on while you vape. They originally used the same chargers as eGo pens, but many newer models feature built-in USB charge ports. Some may also feature variable voltage settings, and a preheat feature which sends a low voltage pulse to gently heat.
- 510 mods – The newer style of 510 thread batteries look something like a pocketable version of a vape mod, but are usually lighter and more compact. They have standard 510 threads, and sometimes utilize magnetic adapters that let you to easily slide your cartridges in. Many of them are draw-activated, but some utilize a firing button and variable voltage settings, so you can crank it up and get a more powerful hit.
- Keychain style – Keychain style batteries introduce a new level of discretion. Some of them have spring-loaded 510 connections that pop out when you press a button. They come in a few variations resembling anything from a keychain to a typical FOB key.
- E-pipe style – There are some 510 thread batteries that resemble a pipe. It has a classic aesthetic that emulates the sensation of “smoking a bowl”. Most of them utilize magnetic adapters, so you can easily swap between cartridges by just dropping them in.
- Vape mods – Some standard vape mods are compatible with cartridges. They need to have a specific type of 510 connection that allows air to flow through the bottom. Various mods, like the Eleaf Pico for example, can accommodate this type of bottom airflow system.
Advantages of 510 thread vapes
The best 510 thread vapes offer some distinct advantages over the standard pen-style batteries. They tend to have more battery life and are more compact and discreet. Some of them even utilize more advanced LED and LCD technology.
Generally speaking, 510 vapes are popular because they are portable, lightweight and easy to use. Another advantage of 510 vapes is having cross compatibility with a variety of atomizers. A good 510 thread battery should also provide a solid connection.
- Portability
- Lightweight
- Cross compatibility
- Solid connection
- Ease of use
- Discreet
- More battery life