Box mods and sub-ohm tanks. These are advanced devices with high wattage, big batteries, and complex settings. They produce a lot of vapor and use low-nicotine freebase e-liquid — the opposite of what a smoker switching to vaping needs. Start with a pod system instead.

No-name "cheap" kits from Amazon or random websites. Many of these have poor build quality, unreliable batteries, and no customer support. Counterfeit vape products are a genuine safety concern. Always buy from reputable brands and authorized retailers.

Mechanical mods. These have no electronic safety features and require advanced knowledge of battery safety and Ohm's law. They are never appropriate for beginners.

Disposable vapes as a long-term solution. Disposables are convenient but expensive ($5–10 each) and terrible for the environment. They're fine for trying vaping, but switch to a rechargeable pod system within a week or two to save money.