How to Charge a Vape: Do’s and Don’ts, and How Long It Takes

Charging is the part of vaping most people never think about, but it decides how long your battery lasts, how well your device performs, and whether it stays safe. Here is how to charge a vape properly, how long it takes, and the habits to avoid.

How to charge a vape, step by step

1. Find your charging connection. Most newer devices have a USB-C port (small, oval, plugs in either way). Older ones have a micro USB port (small and flat) or a twist-on 510/eGo thread, which takes a USB twist charger.
2. Use the cable or charger made for it. Use the one that came with your device or a matching replacement such as our micro USB cable or USB-C cord.
3. Plug into a low-power source. A computer USB port or a basic USB wall block is ideal. Avoid fast-charging phone blocks unless your device’s manual says it supports fast charging.
4. Put it on a hard surface. A desk or counter, not a bed, couch or pocket.
5. Watch the light and unplug when full. Most devices show a red or blinking light while charging that turns green, changes color or switches off when charged.

Not sure which charger you need? Our vape chargers and batteries page has a quick “which charger do I need” table.

How long does it take to charge a vape?

Most small pen and pod batteries charge in about one to three hours. Bigger pod mods and devices with large built-in batteries can take longer, while USB-C devices that support faster charging may be quicker. Check your device’s manual for its exact time.

How often you need to charge depends on the battery size (mAh) and how much you vape. A small pen might need charging every day; a large pod mod may last two or three days. Many people simply charge when the battery light shows it is getting low.

The do’s of charging your vape

• Do use the right charger. Chargers are not all the same, even when a cable fits. The wrong one may supply the wrong current, which can shorten battery life or damage the device.
• Do charge on a flat, non-flammable surface. Batteries warm up as they charge, so give them a hard, clear surface away from anything that could catch fire.
• Do stay nearby while it charges. Built-in protections stop most problems, but being around means you will notice unusual heat or a light that is acting strangely.
• Do unplug once it is full. Keeping a battery plugged in at 100% for hours stresses it over time.
• Do keep the port clean and dry. Dust, lint or e-liquid in the charging port can stop it from charging properly. Clean it gently with a dry cotton swab.

The don’ts of charging your vape

• Don’t use cheap knockoff chargers. They often lack overcharge and overcurrent protection.
• Don’t charge it overnight or while you are out. Even with safety cutoffs, no system is perfect, and problems go unnoticed when no one is around.
• Don’t charge in extreme heat or cold. Avoid direct sun, a hot car, space heaters or freezing temperatures; room temperature is best.
• Don’t use damaged cables or adapters. Replace frayed wires or bent connectors right away.
• Don’t vape while it charges unless your device’s manual says it supports pass-through charging. Using it while charging adds heat and stress to the battery.
• Don’t ignore warning signs. If the device gets very hot, swells, leaks, hisses or smells, unplug it, move it away from anything flammable and stop using it.

For more, read our battery safety tips.

Vape charging FAQ

Do vapes need to be charged?

Rechargeable vapes, including pens, pod kits and box mods with built-in batteries, need to be charged. Twist-on pen batteries charge with a USB twist charger, and devices with a port charge with a USB-C or micro USB cable.

How do I know when my vape is fully charged?

Most devices have an indicator light that changes color, stops blinking or turns off when the battery is full. Devices with a screen show the battery percentage.

Can you charge a vape overnight?

It is best not to. Most devices have overcharge protection, but leaving any lithium-ion battery charging unattended for hours means a problem could go unnoticed. Charge it while you are around and unplug it when it is full.

What happens if you leave your vape charging too long?

Protection circuits usually stop the charge when the battery is full, but sitting plugged in at 100% for long periods wears the battery out faster and adds heat. Unplug it once the light shows it is charged.

Can I charge my vape with a phone charger?

Often yes, if the cable fits, but use a low-amp block or a computer port rather than a fast-charging phone block, unless your device supports fast charging. Some batteries, like our 4Score 650mAh, are made to charge from a USB-C or iPhone charger.

For adults 21+. Keep vapes, batteries and e-liquid away from children and pets.