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The different types of cannabis vapes

By SQDC.ca | Published on November 20, 2025

You may already have a good idea of what a cannabis vape is. But did you know there are several types of vape? Some are designed to be used once, others can be recharged and reused with various cartridges. Facing these choices, it’s not always easy to understand what makes one model different from another. To help you better find your way around, let’s take a look at the main types of cannabis vapes found in Canada.

Drawing of the various types of cannabis vapes.

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What is a vape?

Also called a vape pen, a penjamin or, incorrectly, a wax pen in everyday speech, a vape is an electronic device for consuming unburned liquid cannabis extract in aerosol form. Vapes have two main parts, namely a battery and a cartridge. That said, various types of devices, each with distinct features, can be found on the regulated and unregulated markets.

Learn more about the anatomy of a vape.

Drawing of a 510 thread vape with components magnified

The different types of vapes

Several types and models of vapes can be found on the regulated and unregulated markets. They can be grouped into two main categories: open-system and closed-system.

Closed-system

These types of vapes are called “closed-system” because the cartridges are prefilled and sealed (closed) at the factory. This means they can’t be opened or refilled when empty but instead are thrown away and replaced. The battery is reusable and rechargeable.

Closed-system vapes tend to be either 510-thread vapes, and pod vapes.

510-thread vape

Some cannabis vapes legally sold in Canada use a special format: the 510 standard. This is a rechargeable battery into which a disposable prefilled cartridge is screwed. When the cartridge is empty, it’s unscrewed and replaced with a new cartridge without replacing the rest of the device.

What does 510 stand for? It refers to the threading used to attach the cartridge to the battery: 10 threads 5 mm in diameter. The standard has been widely adopted by the industry, making the batteries compatible with most of the cartridges sold on the regulated market. Cartridges can contain various types of extract, including rosin, resin and distillate, which contributes to the format’s popularity.

It’s important to know that the batteries are also compatible with some products sold outside the regulated market. However, just because a cartridge is compatible doesn’t mean it’s safe. Products from the unregulated market can carry additional health risks. On the other hand, regulated market products meet specific quality and safety standards. For optimal operation, you should always check that your battery matches the specifications for the selected cartridge.

At the SQDC, all cartridges are compatible with the 510-thread batteries sold in stores and online.

Pod vape

Pod vapes have a rechargeable battery and use small prefilled and sealed disposable pods. Unlike 510 thread-type cartridges, which are screwed in, the pods attach with magnets.

Each manufacturer designs its own pods and batteries, which aren’t compatible with other brands. The shape, dimensions and voltage (temperature) vary from brand to brand. This means a pod made by one brand can’t be used with a batter made by another brand.

Though some pods may appear similar, it’s important not to try using them interchangeably. An improper fit can interfere with the device’s functioning and may entail safety risks.

Disposable vape (all-in-one)

A disposable vape is a ready-to-use device that is thrown away in its entirety when the cartridge is emptied. The battery and the cartridge can't be separated, meaning the cartridge can’t be replaced or refilled. That said, there are models that allow the battery to be recharged if the cartridge contains vaping liquid.

These devices usually have few features. In most cases, there’s not even an on/off button or voltage options because the device is activated by inhaling.

There are also models called “dual-chamber vapes” that have two cartridges and allow two different products to be used with the same device. A button on the vape lets the user choose product A, product B or both.

Wax pens: a separate category

Did you know that, technically speaking, a wax pen is not a type of vape?

With its prefilled cartridge removed, a wax pen is actually a small portable vaporizer (sometime called “dry vape”) used to heat solid or semi-solid extracts like wax, hence the name. As such, it’s closer to dabbing than to vaping as a method of use.

In recent years, the growing popularity of vaping has given the term “wax pen” the connotation of a trendy, strong-THC product. Unfortunately, it has come to be incorrectly used as a generic term for vapes. It doesn’t help that wax pens are shaped very similarly to a popular vape model, making them even harder to tell apart.

At present, the SQDC does not sell this type of product.

Drawing of a wax pen heating a cannabis extract

In short, some of the types of devices described above are available on the regulated market in Canada. Others are not authorized for sale in this country. That’s the case for refillable vapes, also known as open pod vapes.

Open-system vape (refillable)

So-called “open-system” devices are ones whose cartridge can be “opened” so the tank can be refilled with a separately purchased liquid cannabis extract.

Only factory-sealed prefilled vaping cartridges can currently be bought on the Canadian market. In other words, refillable vapes cannot be legally sold in Canada.

Why are refillable vapes prohibited in Canada?

The reasons are simple: to reduce the risk of contamination and misuse. The Cannabis Act allows only factory-sealed prefilled cartridges to be sold in order to:

Limit the risks associated with adding liquids containing nicotine to cartridges intended for cannabis extracts.
Limit the risks associated with “homemade” vaping liquids.
Limit the risks of intoxication due to unintentional inhalation (children, pets, etc.).

When you buy vaping products on the regulated market, you know that your product has been tested and the quality is controlled throughout production, ensuring lower-risk use.

If you have questions about the various vaping devices, cartridge compatibility or cannabis products meant for vaping, speak with an advisor in one of our stores or using our online chat service!

Diagram of the various types of cannabis vapes and their descriptions: 510 thread, pod, disposable, refillable and wax pen.

Products

Are all vape cartridges compatible?

Not necessarily. Though many cartridges use the 510-thread standard, you should still check that they are designed to work with your battery. Combining products from different sources, particularly from the regulated and unregulated markets, may entail risks. However, all cartridges sold at the SQDC are compatible with the batteries it sells.
What is a cannabis vape?

A vape is an electronic device that heats a liquid cannabis extract to produce an aerosol that can be inhaled. Vapes usually have a battery and a cartridge.
Who can help me choose a vaping device?

SQDC advisors, whether in one of our stores or staffing our online chat service, are available to answer your questions confidentially and professionally.
What’s a 510 thread vape?

It’s a rechargeable vape whose cartridge can be unscrewed and replaced when empty. The “510” refers to the battery connection system: 10 threads, each 5 mm in diameter.
What’s the difference between a pod vape, a cartridge vape and a disposable vape?
- 510 cartridge: you keep the battery and replace only the cartridge.
- Pod: each brand has its own system and the pods are sealed and magnetized.
- Disposable: the entire device, battery included, is single use.
Does the SQDC sell SQDC brand vapes?

No. The SQDC does not have a house brand. Instead, it acts as a retailer that sells products from Québec and Canadian suppliers.
Can I refill an empty cartridge myself?

No. In Canada, only sealed prefilled cartridges are allowed. This is intended to reduce the risk of contamination and misuse.
How do I know if a vape cartridge is safe?

Buy products only from the regulated market and make sure they’re compatible with your battery. Avoid unregulated products, which may carry greater health risks.
Does the SQDC sell refillable vapes?

No. The SQDC doesn’t sell refillable vapes because they are prohibited for sale under the Cannabis Act. However, the SQDC does offer a selection of vapes that comply with the legal framework in effect in Québec.
Are vapes legal in Québec?

Yes. All cannabis vapes sold at the SQDC come from the regulated market. In Québec, the SQDC is the only place where recreational cannabis can be purchased legally.
I’ve never vaped before. How should I start?

Take it slow and easy at the start:
- Choose a low-THC product.
- Begin with a short puff, then wait at least an hour.
- Avoid also consuming alcohol or nicotine.
- Be in a calm, safe place with people you trust.
What are the main types of vape?

Vapes can be divided into two main categories :
- Closed-system: factory-sealed prefilled cartridges that are replaced when empty.
- Open-system (refillable): cartridges that can be refilled by the user (illegal in Canada).
Does the SQDC sell wax pens?

No. Wax pens, which are used to consume solid extracts like wax, are not currently sold at the SQDC. They are different from vapes and closer in nature to another method of use called dabbing.
What’s a closed-system vape?

It’s a type of vape whose battery is rechargeable and whose cartridges are disposable when empty. This category includes 510-thread vapes, pod vapes and disposable vapes.

The different types of cannabis vapes

What is a vape?

The different types of vapes