Is IQOS a Vape?

We’ve heard this question time and time again – is IQOS a vape?

The answer? While both options are smoke-free alternatives to cigarettes for adult smokers – no, IQOS is not a vape!


What are the differences between IQOS and Vaping?

Here are all the important differences between IQOS vs vape.

1. Technology.
These products utilize innovative tobacco heating systems, such as IQOS’s HeatControl™ to heat tobacco instead of burning it. In comparison, vapes – also called e-cigarettes - work by heating and then vaporizing e-liquid, or vaping liquid.

2. Tobacco.
IQOS utilizes tobacco made of real tobacco leaf that are harvested, and then specially prepared and compressed into tobacco sticks. The precise heating of these tobacco sticks works to deliver tobacco flavor, and at the same time, does not burn tobacco. Heatsticks are not risk free. They are addictive and contain nicotine because it is naturally occurring in tobacco. On the other hand, vapes do not utilize real tobacco; instead, they utilize a vaping liquid available in a variety of flavors at vape shops. Vaping liquids come with or without nicotine.

3. Experience.
IQOS delivers an experience that is similar to smoking. IQOS provides real tobacco taste and satisfaction. Heatsticks are designed to last around 14 puffs, which is around the same amount of time as a cigarette. Vapes, however, offer a completely new experience that is different from smoking, due to the usage of vaping liquids.

4. Product variety.
Some IQOS devices have a separate holder and charger, while others have those components integrated as an all-in-one device. These different options allow IQOS adult users to select what best suits their lifestyle.


IQOS is Not a Vape
IQOS is not a vape, but IQOS is a better alternative to cigarettes. It is known that the majority of harmful chemicals in cigarette smoke comes from burning tobacco. Unlike cigarettes, IQOS does not burn tobacco and therefore produces no smoke. Switching completely to IQOS is less harmful than continuing to smoke. IQOS emits on average 95% lower levels of harmful chemicals compared to cigarettes.* Important information: IQOS is not risk-free. It delivers nicotine, which is addictive.

Compare all IQOS devices

*Average reductions in levels of a range of harmful chemicals (excluding nicotine) compared to the smoke of a reference cigarette (3R4F). It does not necessarily equal a 95% reduction in risk.