variable voltage vape pen

Variable Voltage 510 Battery - Complete Guide

Control your vape session with a variable voltage vape pen and learn more about the benefits of the different voltages your 510 vape pen offers.
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In this article we explore the variable voltage vape battery and do a deep dive on the following topics: 

ALL ABOUT VOLTS

AND  WATTS

AND MOST IMPORTANTLY, HOW TO USE A VARIABLE VOLTAGE VAPE PEN

Curious what makes the best vape experience? Want to know how to get the richest flavors from a cartridge? Or how to adjust from smaller, less intense hits to stronger, heavier puffs? A variable setting vape pen is the key to controlling a vape session. 

Let’s explore and compare the different types of variable vape pens, and how the settings actually affect the vape experience.


vape pen volts vs watts

What’s the Difference Between Voltage and Wattage Vape Pens?

Variable voltages and variable wattages both control the battery to create a desired vaping effect, just in different ways. While watts measures the output of energy in a vape device, volts measures the input of energy. With variable voltage, the number of volts is set to get the desired temperature. With variable wattage, set the watts and the device will adjust the voltage accordingly. 

It’s a subtle difference, but one that can impact the vape experience. Variable wattage determines the voltage (power going in) automatically, while variable voltage gives the user a bit more control. How does this translate into the vape experience? In practical terms, variable wattage is best for those that want to vape in a way that's similar to smoking, while variable voltage is best for those who want more flavor and more control.

all about vape pen volts

What Is a Variable Voltage 510 Battery?

A variable voltage 510 battery allows the user to adjust the heating power of the device, basically controlling the temperature of the device. Variable voltage, and thus variable temperature, is used to enhance the flavor, intensity, smoothness, and hit of a vape.

What is Variable Voltage?

A variable voltage vape pen allows you to select the voltage at which your battery operates, no matter how much power remains in it. This means a consistent power input and more control over the temperature, which means more control over the vape’s flavor and experience. 

What Voltage Means on a Vape Pen

Simply put, the higher the voltage you set, the higher the heat. This will intensify or lessen certain variables of your vape. 

A lower voltage setting allows more subtle flavors to come through since some delicate terpenes may not be discernible with higher heat. Lower voltage also offers softer effects since it may take more hits on a low heat setting to achieve the desired level of THC or other cannabinoids. In contrast, higher voltage gives a more robust and intense flavor, with a stronger onset of effects. We cover this in more detail in the next section.

O.pen’s 2.0 Variable Voltage battery offers a range of settings, from low 2.4 volts to high 4.0 volts, giving vape user’s a range of options. 

What Can a Variable Voltage Battery Control?

The main variables are: 

vape pen experience

When a user adjusts the voltage or wattage of their pen, it’s not the number of volts or watts they are looking to change. Really, those adjustments are about fine-tuning the flavor, intensity, etcetera to create the ideal experience.

Why Do Vape Pens Have Variable Voltage?

A vaporizer variable voltage pen battery allows the user to control the vaping variables, such as flavor and intensity, so they can customize their vaping experience every time.

At Which Voltage Should I Vape?

That depends on individual preferences. There are recommended ranges (which are covered below) which one should use when starting vaping. Once familiar with how the settings affect vape taste and feel, it’s easy to adjust accordingly.

Another factor to consider is that different cannabinoids and terpenes activate at different temperatures...which means the flavor and effects of different strains will be optimal at different temperatures. So experiment with what temperature is best for different strains. After all, the power is literally in your hands!

What Is the Best Volt Setting for My Vape Pen?

The most common range for a variable voltage vape pen is between 3.3 volts and 4.8 volts. However, what is the best volt setting for you will vary. Remember that volts control temperature, and temperature controls variables such flavor and intensity, so we recommend trying different volts to find one’s personal preference. Keep in mind, too, that preference may change depending on which strain one is vaping. 

variable voltage vape pen modes

For those new to vaping, it’s recommended to start on the lowest available voltage. The smooth flavor and softer effects is perfect for beginners. Since lower voltage means a lower cannabinoid intensity per hit, micro-dosers may find they prefer a low volt setting as well. 

Those looking for a more more full-bodied flavor and more intense effects will prefer a higher voltage setting. Again, the purpose of variable voltage is to give the user more control to find their personal preference, so explore different settings with various strains.

Why Does My Vape Say Low Voltage?

If a vape pen displays a low voltage warning, it means it's time to switch the vape battery for a fresh one. This is different from a low battery warning, which simply means that the vape pen needs to recharge.

vape pen warranty

Lithium-ion batteries are the most common power source for vape pens, which have a life expectancy of 250-300 charges, or about three years of average use. O.pen, however, offers a Friend for Life lifetime warranty. If an O.pen 2.0 Variable Voltage Battery stops working for any reason, we offer a variety of easy replacement options!

vape pen watts

What is a Wattage Battery?

Wattage is the measure of the amount of power a vape uses or puts out. Adjusting the wattage will also adjust the voltage of a device. It’s simply a different way of measuring heating power in a vape pen. 

What's the Best Wattage to Vape?

The best wattage for beginners is between 40-50 watts. Just like variable voltage, an adjustable watt vape battery can be altered to a higher or lower wattage to suit individual preferences.

How Do I Know What Wattage My Vape is?

If unsure or just starting out, one tip is to look at the coils. The recommended wattage will be written on them. Additionally, a recommended wattage range can usually be found on the atomizer’s packaging. 

What Does a Higher Wattage Mean for Vaping?

Higher wattage means a more intense “hit” of cannabinoids (such as THC and CBD), which means stronger effects.

Does a Higher Wattage Mean More Flavor?

Not necessarily. It all depends on the type of strain being vaped and that strain’s terpene profiles. Different terpenes are optimized at different temperatures, so consider a strain’s dominant terpenes when choosing a wattage. Ultimately, which wattage gives the most flavor will depend on the strain and personal preference, so feel free to experiment!

Is it Bad to Vape at a Low Wattage?

While not bad, remember that wattage affects the vape experience. If the wattage is too low, the cannabinoids and terpenes will not be activated and vaporized...which means a lack of effects and flavors. If it seems the puffs are flavorless, try bringing up the wattage.

how to use variable voltage vape pens

How to Use a Variable Voltage Vape Pen

Most variable voltage vape pens are straightforward and easy to use. Some are designed to be activated automatically by puffing, while others require the user to hold a button or sensor while puffing. 

The O.pen 2.0 Battery comes partially charged and ready to use out of the box. Click the stylus button at the tip of the pen five times to turn on. The indicator lights surrounding the stylus tip show that the device is on and ready. Then, simply inhale and the O.pen automatically activates the heating element. 

variable voltage battery settings

How to change the voltage settings also varies with each device. To cycle through O.pen’s different voltage modes, click the stylus button twice. The indicator lights glow with different colors to show the current volt setting.

How to Charge a Vape Pen Battery

For vape pens with an integrated battery, simply plug it in using the cable provided. It’s important to use the correct cable or connector to charge to avoid damaging the vape pen.

For the variable voltage wax pen that uses a removable battery, remove the batteries once they are dead and replace them with freshly charged ones. Place the dead batteries in the charger to restore their power.

How Long Does a Vape Pen Take to Charge?

This depends on the size and age of your device. A small vape pen can charge in as little as 30 minutes, while larger or older devices can take several hours. The O.pen 2.0 Variable Voltage battery has a unique Rapid Charge feature. Swipe a finger across the logo of the USB charger and a touch sensor will activate the rapid charge mode, taking a battery from dead to fully charged in only 20 minutes or less!

No matter the vape pen, a good practice is to charge the vape pen overnight so it's fresh and ready to go in the morning.

How to Know When the Vape is Fully Charged?

There may be an indicator light that changes color when charged, or for vape pens with a display screen, it will read "100%." For O.pen vape pens, the battery status can be checked by clicking the stylus buttons three times; the indicator lights will glow from green (full or almost full charge), yellow, orange or red (dead or almost dead).

Why Is My Vape Not Charging? How Can I Fix it?

Batteries can stop charging for a variety of reasons. Here’s a few tips that can be tried at home:

  • Cleaning the battery threads with a dry cotton swab
  • Check for and remove debris on the battery threads
  • Replace charging cable for a new one
  • Clean the charging cable socket with a dry cotton swab

If none of the above work, contact the manufacturer or place of purchase. If an O.pen vape pen stops working for any reason, our Friend for Life warranty guarantees happiness with a variety of convenient replacement options.