Vape Pods vs. Disposables: What’s Selling Best in Wholesale 2025?

The vaping industry has never been more dynamic than it is in 2025. With new regulations, evolving consumer preferences, and a continuous influx of innovative products, wholesale buyers are paying close attention to the trends shaping the market. Two categories continue to dominate the conversation: vape pods and disposable vapes. But which one is selling best in the wholesale space? Let’s break it down.

The Rise (and Reign) of Disposable Vapes

Disposable vapes have been riding a wave of popularity for the last few years, and in 2025, they’re still going strong. When it comes to convenience, there’s no beating a good disposable vape; no charging, no refilling, and no maintenance. For many consumers, especially beginners, the grab-and-go nature of disposables makes them an easy choice.

From a wholesale perspective, disposables continue to be a lucrative product. Their appeal spans from casual users to experienced vapers who enjoy the hassle-free experience. Here are some of the key reasons why disposables remain a top seller:

Ease of Use: There’s no setup required, making them perfect for first-time users.

Variety of Flavours: The industry has pushed boundaries, with brands offering bold, unique flavors that keep customers coming back. This serves as another reason why disposable vapes are popular as customers can experiment with to find that one perfect flavour. 

Higher Profit Margins: While disposables may seem costlier on the consumer side, wholesalers benefit from high-volume sales and frequent reorders.

Regulatory Advantages: With many regions tightening restrictions on open-system vapes (like pods), disposables often find themselves in a more favorable legal position.

However, despite their dominance, disposable vapes are not without their challenges. Environmental concerns are growing, as these single-use devices contribute to electronic waste. Additionally, the high cost of repeat purchases means some consumers eventually shift to reusable options, like vape pods, to save money.

Pod Devices: A More Sustainable, Cost-Effective Alternative?

Vape pods remain a strong contender in the wholesale market, particularly among loyal customers looking for a more sustainable and economical long-term option. While they require more commitment than disposables (charging, replacing pods, and sometimes refilling), many users appreciate the control they offer over their vaping experience.

In 2025, wholesalers are seeing a steady demand for pod systems due to:

Cheaper In The Long Run: Though the initial investment is higher, buying replacement pods is cheaper than continually purchasing disposables.

Sustainability: As eco-conscious consumers become more vocal, vape pods are being marketed as the greener alternative.

Customization & Performance: Many pod systems offer adjustable settings, better battery life, and smoother nicotine delivery.

Brand Loyalty: Unlike disposables, which encourage brand-hopping due to flavor variety, pod users often stick with one brand and its ecosystem.

Pod systems also appeal to vapers who have transitioned from traditional cigarettes and want a more controlled nicotine intake. With advancements in pod technology, including better coil longevity and enhanced airflow systems, many brands are positioning their pod devices as the premium vaping choice.

A Wholesaler’s Priority:

Looking at wholesale trends in 2025, the answer isn’t as clear-cut as one might expect. Disposables continue to fly off shelves, driven by their accessibility and broad appeal. Retailers stock them in high volumes, knowing that repeat purchases drive substantial revenue. On the other hand, pod systems are gaining traction as a more sustainable and cost-effective option, attracting a more loyal customer base.

Wholesalers are considering several factors when making purchasing decisions. Consumer demographics play a key role, with younger, trend-focused consumers leaning toward disposables, while long-term vapers and ex-smokers often prefer pods. Profitability and turnover also influence decisions, as disposables have a higher turnover rate, meaning more frequent orders, while pods have slower turnover but build customer retention. Lastly, brand influence is crucial, established pod brands continue to hold strong, but newer, more innovative disposable brands are disrupting the market.

Our Advice: Be Flexible

If past records and the response of the customer base has proven anything, it’s that both disposables and vape pods have secured their place in the industry. Wholesale buyers aren’t choosing one over the other, they’re stocking both to meet the diverse needs of their customers.

Disposables are still winning in sheer volume, but vape pods are proving their staying power, particularly among seasoned vapers looking for long-term savings and sustainability. Smart wholesalers are diversifying their stock, ensuring they cater to impulse buyers as well as committed vapers.

Ultimately, the best-seller depends on the market segment a wholesaler is targeting. The key to success? Understanding shifting consumer behaviors, staying ahead of regulations, and offering a well-rounded product mix that satisfies both the casual and committed vaper.