How do disposable vapes work?
By Jeff Eckenrode
Image credit: Elsa Olofsson
Quick Answer: Disposable vapes are compact, pre-filled cannabis devices that work by heating cannabis oil into vapor using a battery-powered coil. Most are draw-activated, so when you inhale, the battery powers a heating element that vaporizes oil stored in a built-in reservoir. Disposable vapes are popular for their ease of use, portability, and consistent effects—with no charging, refilling, or setup required.
Convenient, compact, and ready to go.
Disposable vapes are one of the easiest and most accessible ways to consume cannabis. They’re discreet, pre-charged, and pre-filled—no buttons, no fuss.
But what’s going on inside that sleek little device? And how does it actually turn cannabis oil into smooth, flavorful vapor?
Let’s take a closer look.
Image credit: Jeff W
What is a Disposable Vape?
A disposable vape is a small, self-contained vaping device that comes ready to use right out of the box—no charging or refilling required.
Most disposables are filled with distillate or live resin—concentrated cannabis oil that contains high levels of THC, CBD, or other cannabinoids, along with flavor-rich terpenes.
Luckily, many disposable vapes are now rechargeable and can be charged with a micro or USB C cable. So if your battery dies you can recharge it and continue to enjoy your vape!
But once the oil runs out the entire device is meant to be recycled or discarded.
Image credit: Clear Cannabis
How Does A Disposable Vape Work?
Inside every disposable vape, you’ll find three essential components:
1. The Battery
This is the power source. It’s usually a lithium-ion battery that sends an electric current through the device when you inhale.
Most disposables are draw-activated, meaning the battery only turns on when you take a puff. No buttons, no settings—just inhale and enjoy.
2. The Heating Element (Coil)
This is what turns liquid cannabis oil into vapor.
The coil is a tiny wire that heats up when powered by the battery. Wrapped around a wicking material (usually cotton or ceramic), the coil gently vaporizes the oil so it can be inhaled as a smooth mist.
3. The Cartridge or Reservoir
This is where the cannabis oil lives.
Made of glass or durable plastic, the reservoir holds a pre-measured amount of distillate or resin—usually between 0.3g to 1g depending on the size of the vape.
When you take a draw, the oil is pulled toward the heating element, vaporized, and inhaled through the mouthpiece.
Image credit: Clear Cannabis
What’s Inside A Disposable Vape?
Most disposable vapes are filled with either:
Distillate oil – highly refined, nearly flavorless THC or CBD oil, often blended with added terpenes for taste
Live resin – full-spectrum extract made from fresh-frozen flower, with natural terpene profiles for a richer flavor and aroma
Some vapes also include botanical terpenes, cannabis-derived terpenes, or other cannabinoids like CBG or Delta-8, depending on the brand and strain.
Image credit: Clear Cannabis
Why Do People Love Disposable Vapes?
Disposable vapes offer a lot of benefits for new and experienced users alike:
Discreet & portable – fits in your pocket, purse, or palm
No setup – no charging, no maintenance, no refilling
Consistent experience – pre-measured doses and strain-specific effects
Wide variety – available in dozens of strains and formulations
Whether you’re microdosing on the go or enjoying a full-body high at home, disposables offer quick, reliable effects—anytime, anywhere.
Image credit: LexScope
Where Can I Find Disposable Vapes?
Most dispensaries carry a wide range of disposable vape options, including:
High-THC distillate vapes
CBD-rich formulas
Live resin and rosin options
Strain-specific experiences like Blue Dream, OG Kush, or Pineapple Express
Not sure where to start? Our budtenders are here to help you find the right vape for your needs—whether you’re exploring new cannabinoids, trying to stay discreet, or just want something easy to use.
Want to learn more about cannabis vapes, oil or concentrates?
Then check out our related posts here!
Need help picking out a product? Then ask our friendly budtenders!
Whether you’re shopping in Redmond or online, we’re here to help you find what you need, when you need it.