Based on comprehensive testing of performance, safety, user experience, flavor accuracy, and value
Discover the best performing devices in each category based on our comprehensive testing
Our comprehensive testing methodology combines laboratory analysis with real-world usage evaluation to provide the most accurate and reliable e-cigarette rankings available. Each device undergoes rigorous testing by our team of experts using standardized protocols to ensure fair comparison.
Answers to common questions about our rankings and methodology
Our selection process began with market analysis to identify the top-selling devices globally across all major categories (disposables, pod systems, mods, etc.). We then expanded this list to include notable new releases that have gained significant market traction in the past 12 months.
To ensure comprehensive coverage, we consulted with industry experts and retailers to identify any innovative products with distinctive features that might not yet have achieved mainstream sales volumes. In total, we evaluated 78 unique devices from 24 manufacturers before narrowing down to the final rankings.
All devices were purchased anonymously through standard retail channels to ensure we tested the same products available to consumers, rather than potentially optimized review samples provided directly by manufacturers.
Our testing methodology employs both quantitative laboratory measurements and qualitative expert assessments. For quantitative evaluation, we use specialized equipment including:
Qualitative assessments were conducted by our panel of 12 experts who evaluated each device for ease of use, ergonomics, flavor accuracy, and overall user experience. Each expert completed a standardized evaluation form with scores in 22 different categories.
Absolutely not. Our rankings are entirely independent and not influenced by any commercial relationships. We maintain a strict policy of not accepting manufacturer sponsorship or advertising related to our testing program. All devices are purchased through standard retail channels using anonymous shoppers to ensure we receive the same products as regular consumers.
Our testing protocols and evaluation criteria are developed independently by our research team based on scientific principles and industry standards. The integrity of our rankings is paramount, which is why we maintain complete transparency about our methodology and funding sources.
The Global Vape Authority is funded through a combination of subscription revenues, academic research grants, and general consumer product testing services unrelated to the vaping industry, ensuring we can maintain our independence.
Our comprehensive global rankings are updated annually with publication each January, capturing the previous year's technological advancements and market developments. The current rankings represent our 2025 analysis, reflecting devices evaluated through December 2024.
We also publish quarterly updates focusing on significant new product releases or major firmware updates that might substantially change a device's performance characteristics. These interim updates may adjust individual device ratings but typically don't reorganize the overall rankings unless a truly disruptive product enters the market.
Our testing laboratory continuously evaluates new devices as they are released, maintaining an ongoing database of performance metrics. This ensures that our annual rankings incorporate the most current data available, even for devices released early in the evaluation cycle.
While our rankings focus on the performance and quality of e-cigarette devices, we take health and safety concerns very seriously. Our testing includes comprehensive safety evaluations of each device, including electrical safety, materials testing, and thermal regulation assessment.
We acknowledge that e-cigarettes are not risk-free products. They contain nicotine, which is addictive, and long-term health effects of vaping are still being studied. Our rankings are intended to provide comparative information for adult smokers seeking alternatives to combustible cigarettes, not to encourage non-smokers to begin using nicotine products.
We also maintain a clear health disclaimer with all our content and support age verification measures to prevent youth access. Our safety ratings specifically evaluate device safety features and manufacturing quality, not the inherent safety of vaping as a practice.
Receive updates on product safety recalls, new device reviews, and the latest research findings. Our newsletter provides essential information for making informed decisions.