Closed vs Open Pod Systems: Sealed Pods or Refill-Your-Own?
Short answer: A closed pod system uses sealed, pre-filled pods that you click in and throw away when empty. An open system has pods you refill yourself, with coils you can replace. Closed is simpler; open costs far less per millilitre and lets you choose any liquid and strength.
How the two work
In a closed system the brand decides the flavour, strength and liquid; you just swap pods. In an open system you fill the pod from a bottle, and when the coil wears out you replace the coil or the pod, not the whole device.
Cost per millilitre, with our prices
| Option | Price | Liquid | AED per ml |
|---|---|---|---|
| RELX Pod Pro 2 pod (closed) | AED 30, or AED 270 for 10 | 1.9ml | About 14.20 to 15.80 |
| Disposables with a listed tank | AED 45 to AED 47 | 18ml to 50ml | 0.90 to 2.50 |
| Open pod kit | Kit AED 95 to AED 125, then bottled liquid | 3ml to 4ml per fill | Depends on the liquid you buy |
Prices checked 28 September 2026. Pre-filled pods are convenient, but per millilitre they’re the most expensive way to vape in our range. The disposable figures are worked out in cost per ml inside disposables.
Which one suits whom
- Closed: for adults who want zero filling and a fixed, brand-chosen flavour list. RELX Pod Pro 2 pods come in over 30 flavours.
- Open: for daily vapers who want control over flavour, strength and PG/VG, and don’t mind a small routine. Our OXVA pod kits are all open systems.
Bottled e-liquid isn’t in our range yet, so an open kit suits someone who already buys liquid.
Common questions
Can you refill a closed-system pod?
No. Closed-system pods are sealed and designed to be replaced, not refilled. Open-system pods are made to be refilled.
Is an open system hard to maintain?
Not really. You fill the pod, let a new coil soak before use, and replace the coil or pod when the flavour fades. Most vapers learn it within days.
Which is cheaper to run?
An open system is cheaper per millilitre because bottled liquid costs less than pre-filled pods. Closed systems trade that cost for convenience.
Background reading: WHO questions and answers on e-cigarettes.
Written and reviewed by DK Ridoy for Vape Royality Store. Last reviewed 28 September 2026.
