Ecigone

How to Use the Vaporesso XROS 5: Beginner's Guide to Refillable Pods

By shane margereson

Nothing ruins your day quicker than realising you're still stuck with the same three fruit-ice flavours when there's a whole world of proper vape juices out there waiting to be discovered.

Now that the disposable ban is here, you've basically got two choices: stick with prefilled pod vape kits, which are just disposables in disguise, or make the jump to refillable pod vape kit systems and unlock access to every single flavour from brilliant UK manufacturers and international brands.

After testing literally thousands of vape kits since we started Ecigone back in 2014, I can tell you the Vaporesso XROS 5 is hands down the best entry point into the world of refillables. You're not just getting a device here – you're getting your passport to proper dessert custards, complex tobacco blends, authentic bakery flavours, and every other taste profile you've been missing out on.

Whether you're coming from disposables or you've been using prefilled pods and fancy stepping up your game, this guide will get you sorted in no time. No technical waffle, just straight advice from someone who's helped thousands make this exact move and discover what they've been missing.

Unpacking Your XROS 5: What You're Looking At

When you crack open the box, you'll find the Vaporesso XROS 5 device itself (basically the battery bit with the screen), two pods (a 0.6Ω and a 0.8Ω), a USB-C charging cable, and the instruction booklet (which most folks never read, let's be honest).

First thing I'd recommend is giving everything a once-over to make sure nothing's damaged. Then, give the device a full charge before you start using it, even though it'll probably have some juice in the battery already.

If you've gone for the Vaporesso XROS 5 Mini instead, the setup is even simpler. It's got the same 1500mAh battery as the regular model, no screen, and it's more compact overall. Perfect if you want something more like the size of a disposable.

The Big Switch: From Disposables or Prefilled to Refillables

If you've been using disposables or prefilled pod vape kits up until now, this might seem like a big change. I know loads of our customers are making the switch now that disposables are banned, and they're always surprised at how easy refillable pods actually are – and absolutely mental about the flavour options they've been missing.

The main difference you'll notice is that instead of being stuck with whatever flavours the big companies decide to make, you can choose from thousands of different e-liquids . The flavour is miles better, it works out way cheaper in the long run, and you're not contributing to the mountain of waste anymore.

  • Access to thousands of flavours from UK and international manufacturers
  • Miles better flavour quality than disposables or prefilled pods
  • Massive cost savings long-term
  • Better for the environment

For those who prefer the feel and simplicity of disposables, the Vaporesso XROS 5 Mini might be your best bet. It's closer in size and weight to a disposable, with that same no-fuss auto-draw firing. No screens or buttons to mess with if you don't want them.

For those of you who've been using prefilled pods, the XROS 5 is your natural next step. You'll get access to proper artisan flavours, better performance, and save a packet on those expensive prefilled cartridges. The XROS 5 even accepts the Deliciu prefilled pods if you want a halfway house while you get comfortable with refilling.

Filling Your Pod: No Leaks, No Mess

This is where a lot of beginners get a bit worried, but trust me, it's dead easy with the XROS 5. Take one of the pods out of the box (I'd recommend starting with the 0.8Ω if you're new to vaping), look at the top of the pod and you'll see a black mouthpiece. Pull up the mouthpiece to reveal the fill hole. It's proper obvious once you've got the top bit off.

Get your e-liquid bottle and place the nozzle into the fill hole, then squeeze gently until the pod is nearly full, but leave a small gap at the top. Pop the mouthpiece back on and make sure it clicks shut. Don't worry about getting the liquid in the middle hole, that's the airflow and it's meant to stay dry.

  • Pull up the black mouthpiece to reveal fill hole
  • Insert e-liquid nozzle into fill hole
  • Squeeze gently until nearly full (leave small gap)
  • Pop mouthpiece back until it clicks shut

The filling process is identical on both the XROS 5 and the XROS 5 Mini. They use the exact same XROS Corex 3.0 pods , which is a massive bonus if you end up owning both devices.

A quick tip: after filling, leave the pod to sit for about 5 minutes before using it. This gives the liquid time to soak into the cotton inside. Rushing this step is how you end up with burnt pods and a nasty taste, so have a cuppa while you wait.

What Juice Should You Use?

This is dead important. Using the wrong type of e-liquid can mess up your experience and potentially knacker your pods. For the XROS 5, you want to stick with either 50VG/50PG e-liquids (the regular ones) or nic salt e-liquids (which tend to be smoother at higher strengths). These thinner liquids work best with the pods. If you try using high VG liquids (like 70% VG or higher), they're too thick and won't soak into the coil properly.

If you're just switching from disposables, I'd recommend starting with nic salt vape juices around the same strength as your disposable was, usually 10-20mg. That way you'll get a similar hit to what you're used to. If you were on prefilled pods, check what strength you were using and match it as close as you can.

We've got loads of customers who swear by dessert flavours in the XROS 5. Things like custards and bakery flavours come through proper nice. Fruit and menthol ones work a treat too. The beauty of refillables is you can try loads of different flavours without buying a whole new device each time.

Getting It Started: First Puff

Once your pod's had time to soak, take the filled pod and push it into the top of the XROS 5 device until it clicks into place. The Vaporesso XROS 5 should automatically detect the pod and show the resistance on the screen. If it doesn't switch on, press the fire button 5 times quickly to turn it on.

With the XROS 5, you've got two options for vaping: either press and hold the button while you inhale, or just take a puff without pressing anything (auto-draw). If you're coming from disposables, the auto-draw will feel most familiar as it works just like those do.

The XROS 5 Mini keeps things even simpler with auto-draw only. No button to press, just inhale like you would on a disposable. For most ex-disposable users, this is actually a bonus, as it feels more familiar.

Adjusting Airflow: Finding Your Sweet Spot

One of the best features on both the XROS 5 and XROS Mini 5 is how easy it is to adjust the airflow. Look for the slider on the side of the device. Sliding it up opens the airflow (more air, looser draw), sliding it down restricts it (less air, tighter draw).

This is a massive upgrade from disposables, which have a fixed airflow you can't change. With the XROS 5, you can fine-tune it exactly how you like it. If you're used to disposables, start with it about halfway closed and adjust from there.

Have a play around with different settings until you find what feels right for you. There's no wrong answer here, it's all about what you find most satisfying.

The XROS 5 vs XROS 5 Mini: Which Is Right For You?

If you're torn between the two models, here's a quick breakdown. Both use the exact same pods with that COREX 3.0 tech , so you'll get the same flavour performance from either one. And if you end up with both, you can swap pods between them. Proper handy!

Both devices actually have the same 1500mAh battery, so you get the same all-day performance regardless of which one you choose.

Go for the XROS 5 if you like having a screen to see your settings, you prefer having button activation as an option, or you want to be able to adjust power settings.

Go for the XROS 5 Mini if you want something closer in size to a disposable, you prefer simplicity with just auto-draw activation, you like a more minimalist design with LED light indicators, or you want to save £7 (it's £16.99 vs £23.99).

Understanding the XROS 5 Screen and Controls

The Vaporesso XROS 5 has a nice little 0.88-inch screen that shows you everything you need to know. At first glance, you'll see the battery level indicator, wattage/power mode, resistance of your pod, and puff counter.

The controls are dead simple once you get the hang of them. 5 clicks of the button turns it on or off, 3 clicks lets you adjust power settings, 2 clicks changes the screen theme (there's 6 different ones), and 4 clicks gets you into the settings menu.

If you're coming from disposables, this might seem like a lot at first, but trust me, within a day you'll have it down pat. For most beginners, I'd recommend just leaving it in NORMAL mode to start with. But if you find it a bit too warm, switch to ECO mode. If you want a warmer vape with more vapour, try POWER mode.

The XROS 5 Mini does away with all this. There's no screen or button controls, just a simple LED indicator that shows your battery level with different colours. It's as close to disposable simplicity as you can get while still having a refillable device.

Changing Between Pods

Both the XROS 5 and Mini come with different pods - the XROS 5 includes both a 0.6Ω and a 0.8Ω, while the Mini comes with just the 0.8Ω. But what's the difference and when should you use each?

The 0.8Ω pod is more for a traditional mouth-to-lung (MTL) style. That's where you pull the vapour into your mouth first, like a ciggie, before inhaling. It uses less power, gives a slightly cooler vape, and is great for higher nicotine strengths. This is closer to what most disposables feel like.

The 0.6Ω pod is a bit more open, letting you take a restricted direct-lung hit if you want (where you inhale straight to your lungs). It produces a bit more vapour and often gives slightly more flavour, but uses battery a bit quicker.

To change pods, make sure the device is off or just pull out the old pod, empty and clean the old pod if you plan to reuse it later, fill your new pod and let it sit for 5 minutes, then pop it into the device and you're sorted. The XROS 5 will automatically detect which pod you're using and adjust accordingly. The Mini does this too, though without a screen to show you.

Avoiding Common Beginner Mistakes

In my years running Ecigone, I've seen pretty much every beginner mistake going. Here's how to avoid the most common ones with the XROS 5, especially if you're new to refillable pods.

Always give a fresh pod at least 5 minutes after filling before you start vaping. I know it's tempting to dive straight in, but patience here saves you a burnt pod. With disposables, all this waiting was done in the factory. Now you're doing it yourself, so take your time.

When your liquid gets low (below the cotton wicking holes), top it up. Vaping a nearly empty pod can burn the cotton and ruin the flavour permanently. With disposables, you'd just chuck them away when they got low. With refillables, you need to keep an eye on your juice level.

Stick to 50/50 or nic salts. The thick, high VG stuff is for bigger sub-ohm devices, not pod systems like this. If you're not sure what to get, just ask us. We can point you to liquids that'll work perfectly.

If your pod starts making a gurgling noise, it usually means there's liquid in the airflow. Take the pod out, wrap it in tissue and blow gently through the mouthpiece to clear it. This happens sometimes with refillables, but it's dead easy to fix.

Every now and then, take the pod out and use a cotton bud or tissue to wipe the connection points on both the pod and device. Liquid can build up here and cause issues with performance. A bit of regular maintenance goes a long way.

How Long Should Pods Last?

This is probably the question I get asked most often by people switching from disposables, and the answer is always "it depends." But with the new COREX 3.0 pods in the XROS 5, you can generally expect heavy vapers (refilling 1-2 times daily) to get 4-7 days per pod, moderate vapers (refilling every other day) can see 7-14 days per vaporesso pod , and light vapers (refilling twice a week) might get 2-3 weeks per pod.

The type of liquid makes a massive difference, too. Sweet flavours and desserts tend to gunk up coils faster because of the sweeteners, while fruit and menthol flavours are usually kinder on your pods.

You'll know it's time to change when the flavour starts dropping off, you get a slightly burnt taste, it produces noticeably less vapour, or the liquid in the pod looks darker than when you put it in. When these signs show up, it's time to bin the old pod and pop in a fresh one.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even the best devices sometimes have little niggles. Here's how to fix the most common ones with the XROS 5.

If your device isn't firing, check that it's turned on (5 clicks of the button on the XROS 5), make sure the pod is properly seated, check the battery isn't flat, and clean the connection points.

For a leaking pod, make sure the top cap is properly closed, don't overfill the pod (leave a small air gap), check for cracks in the pod, and don't leave it in very hot places (like a car in summer).

If you're getting a burnt taste, let new pods soak properly, don't vape when the liquid level is too low, try a lower power setting, or consider switching to a different flavour, as some sweet e-liquids just burn coils faster.

For weak flavour, try adjusting the airflow (closing it a bit often intensifies flavour), check if it's time to change the pod, try a different power mode, or make sure you're using the right type of e-liquid.

If your battery is draining too quickly, use ECO mode to save power (on the XROS 5), turn the device off when not in use, remember the 0.6Ω pod uses more power than the 0.8Ω, or check for auto-firing (if it's making noise when not in use).

The Money Savings Compared to Disposables

One of the biggest benefits of switching from disposables to the XROS 5 is how much cash you'll save. Let's break it down.

The average disposable costs around £6-£8 and lasts about 2 days for a regular vaper. That was roughly £90-£120 a month on vaping. Now with prefilled pods, you're looking at similar costs – they're just disposables in disguise with a fancy reusable battery.

With the XROS 5, you're looking at £23.99 for the device (or £16.99 for the Mini), one-off cost, £10 for a pack of 4 pods (lasts about a month), and £1.99 for a bottle of your favourite nic salt (lasts around 5 refills).

Even with a few bottles of e-liquid a month, you're spending about £15-£20 monthly after the initial device purchase. That's a fraction of what you'd spend on disposables or prefilled pods, saving you around £80-£100 every single month. Over a year, that's a massive £960-£1200 saved!

Plus, you're not contributing to the mountain of plastic waste ending up in landfill, which is a proper bonus.

Maintaining Your XROS 5

Dead easy to look after, this device. Just wipe it down regularly with a tissue to remove any e-liquid residue, keep the pod connection clean, don't leave it charging overnight or for extended periods once full, store it upright when possible, keep it away from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight, and every so often, take the pod out and give the inside a little clean with a cotton bud.

With a bit of care, your XROS 5 should last you a good year or more. Way longer than the endless cycle of disposables or prefilled pods.

Where To Get Help If You're Stuck

We've all been beginners, and sometimes you just need a bit of advice from someone who knows their stuff. At Ecigone, we're always happy to help if you're unsure about anything.

You can drop us an email, use the live chat on our website, or give us a ring. Unlike some of the bigger online shops, you'll get through to an actual human who knows what they're on about, usually one of us owners, as we still like to chat directly with customers.

We've had loads of customers ring us up all confused after switching from disposables, and after a quick 5-minute chat, they're sorted and vaping happily. That's the kind of service we pride ourselves on.

If your device isn't firing, check that it's turned on (5 clicks of the button on the XROS 5), make sure the pod is properly seated, check that the battery isn't flat, and clean the connection points.

Upgrading Your Experience

Once you've got the hang of your XROS 5, you might want to experiment a bit. Try different flavours to find your favourites, test the different power modes to see what you prefer, if you started with the 0.8Ω pod, give the 0.6Ω a go, and play with the airflow settings for different vaping styles.

The beauty of the XROS 5 is that it grows with you. It's simple enough for complete beginners making the switch from disposables, but has enough features to keep most vapers happy long-term. And if you want something even simpler, there's always the Mini.

If you fancy trying something else without buying a whole new kit, remember that the XROS 5 is compatible with all XROS pods. So you could pick up some of the 1.0Ω or 1.2Ω pods for a tighter draw, or the 0.4Ω pods for a warmer vape with more clouds (though the 0.4Ω only works with certain XROS devices, including the 5).

Final Thoughts

The XROS 5 really is the perfect stepping stone from disposables into the world of refillable vaping. It's simple enough for complete beginners but has enough features to keep most vapers happy long-term. Whether you go for the full XROS 5 or the Mini, you're getting a proper quality device that'll serve you well.

Remember, we're always here if you need a hand getting started or if you want to chat about which flavours might work best for you. That's the kind of service we pride ourselves on at Ecigone. Proper advice from people who actually know what they're talking about.

Need help choosing your first refillable setup? Give us a shout. We love helping folks make the switch from disposables to something that'll save them money and give them a better vaping experience.

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