The short answer
A vape pen describes a shape, while a pod kit describes the replaceable part that holds the liquid. They can overlap: the Joyetech eGo Slim is a pen shaped pod kit. For buying, compare whether you add bottled e liquid or use prefilled pods, what you replace when the coil wears out, and whether you retain and recharge the device.
Key points
- Refillable pens and refillable pod kits both let you add bottled e liquid.
- Refillable does not mean the coil can be changed separately. The Go S uses a replacement tank, while the eGo Slim uses a replacement pod.
- A prefilled pod kit can be rechargeable and reusable: you retain the Elfa PRO device and change its pod.
- Check the exact tank or pod as well as the device name. Some devices accept more than one type of pod.
The useful difference is what you do after the liquid runs low or a coil needs replacing. The Innokin Go S uses a refillable tank, the Joyetech eGo Slim uses a refillable pod, and the Elf Bar Elfa PRO can use prefilled pods. These involve different routines even though the devices can look similar.
This guide compares the product descriptions linked below, with manufacturer references for the Go S and eGo Slim. It is not a hands on test. The disposable format is included to explain the distinction, not as a product recommendation.
Vape pens, pod kits and disposables compared
The refillable and prefilled columns use the named examples, rather than treating every kit in a category as identical.
| What to compare | Refillable tank pen: Go S | Refillable pod kit: eGo Slim | Prefilled pod kit: Elfa PRO with prefilled pods | Sealed disposable format |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Refillable? | Yes, refill the tank. | Yes, refill the pod. | The prefilled pod is replaced, not topped up from a bottle. | Not a refillable tank or replacement pod system. |
| Bottled e liquid or prefilled? | Add compatible bottled e liquid. | Add compatible bottled e liquid. | Liquid is supplied in a compatible prefilled pod. | Liquid is supplied inside the device. |
| Coil changes | The coil is built into the tank. Replace the tank rather than a separate coil. | The coil is built into the pod. Replace the pod rather than a separate coil. | Replace the prefilled pod rather than fitting a separate coil. | Not intended for separate coil changes. |
| Charging | Recharge the retained device over USB. | Recharge the retained device over USB Type C. | Recharge the retained device over USB Type C. | Depends on the design. A disposable label does not by itself tell you whether the battery recharges. |
| Upkeep | Refill, recharge and replace the tank when its coil needs replacing. | Refill, recharge and replace the pod when its coil needs replacing. | Recharge and fit replacement prefilled pods. | No ongoing tank or pod replacement routine. |
| Who the routine suits | Someone who wants a pen shape, bottled liquid and no separate coil fitting. | Someone who wants bottled liquid and whole pod replacement. | Someone who wants to retain the device without filling its pods from a bottle. | The format appeals to people avoiding filling and part changes. For that preference, compare the prefilled pod option rather than assuming it is the same format. |
Product details: Innokin Go S, Joyetech eGo Slim and Elf Bar Elfa PRO.
Not all pens follow the Go S approach. For example, this Innokin pen kit uses separate Prism coils. Also, the Elfa PRO product page lists compatible refillable pods as well as prefilled ones. Its table entry describes use with prefilled pods.
How to choose the right format
- Decide whether you want to handle bottled liquid. If you do, compare refillable tanks and pods. If you do not, compare kits with compatible prefilled pods.
- Check what you will replace. A separate coil, a complete tank and a complete pod are different replacement parts. Look at the exact product page before choosing spares.
- Choose the controls you prefer. The Go S uses a button. The eGo Slim and Elfa PRO use inhale activation. The Go S and eGo Slim also offer adjustable airflow.
- Check the charging connection and box contents. The Elfa PRO product page says its charging cable is sold separately. Do not assume every kit includes the same accessories.
Compare vape pens if you prefer a pen shape, or browse pod kits to compare refillable and prefilled options. The disposables category now shows disposable vape alternatives; check the actual pod and charging system rather than judging by appearance.
Common buyer questions
Can a vape pen also be a pod kit?
Yes. The Joyetech eGo Slim has a pen shape and takes an eRoll Slim pod. Shape alone does not tell you how a device is filled or which part you replace.
Do I have to change coils in every refillable kit?
Not separately. With the Go S, you replace the tank containing the coil. With the eGo Slim, you replace the pod containing the coil. Other pens have separate replacement coils, so check the exact kit.
Can I use bottled e liquid in a prefilled pod kit?
Check whether the device accepts a compatible refillable pod. The Elfa PRO product page lists that option alongside prefilled pods. A device accepting refillable pods does not mean its prefilled pod should be opened and refilled.
Does a prefilled pod mean the whole device is disposable?
No. The Elfa PRO has a rechargeable battery and replaceable pods. You retain the device when you replace an empty prefilled pod.
Which option avoids both bottle filling and separate coil changes?
A kit used with prefilled replacement pods, such as the Elfa PRO, fits that preference. You still recharge the device and replace its pods.
Is the Go S disposable because its tank is called disposable?
The tank and device are different parts. The Go S tank can be refilled, but its coil is not changed separately. You replace the tank and retain the rechargeable device.
Live products, prices and stock
This article explains the question or review. Use the linked shop pages for current product options, prices and availability.
Sources and verification
- Go S product informationInnokinChecked: 22 October 2026
Supports: The Go S is a pen with a refillable tank, sliding top fill and adjustable airflow.
- eGo Slim product informationJoyetechChecked: 22 October 2026
Supports: The eGo Slim has a cylindrical body, refillable eRoll Slim pods, a coil built into the pod, inhale activation, adjustable airflow and USB Type C charging.
