Heated tobacco VS vaping
The very short answer is no, heated tobacco isn't vaping. That’s not to say that there aren't some similarities between the two.
Heated tobacco and vaping products were introduced as replacements for traditional cigarettes, and both produce a vapor that’s designed for you to inhale. Fortunately, and because they don't burn anything, neither produces the problematic smoke or ash associated with cigarettes.
That’s where the similarities end though.
Heated tobacco vs vaping
A heated tobacco product like Ploom AURA - which uses unique technology to heat real tobacco without burning it - is the first choice for those looking for a modern take on tobacco experience. Not only does Ploom AURA deliver on rich tobacco taste, it’s also more considerate of the people around you and potentially less risk than smoking traditional cigarettes.¹
The design of Ploom AURA enables you to replicate much-loved personal smoking rituals but with no matches, lighters or ashtrays required. It also feels entirely familiar because it works with cigarette-like sticks, the EVO tobacco sticks. The sticks are crafted from real tobacco and you can find more information in our blog article, “Introducing Ploom - A Unique Heated Tobacco Technology”.
Beyond the tobacco itself, the experience is about convenience. While vaping requires maintaining tanks and liquids, using a tobacco heating system is much simpler. You can easily carry your EVO sticks in a stylish carry case or protect your device with various back covers. These accessories don't just protect your tech; they make it a part of your daily look, whether you’re on a grocery run or at the office.
On the other hand, electronic cigarettes, e-cigs or vapes (vaping devices are known by lots of different names) use a liquid which is heated until it creates a vapor. That vapor normally contains nicotine and other flavorings, although neither comes from tobacco – the nicotine is a pharmaceutical product, and the flavors are like those included in food and drinks.
Since the arrival of the first vaping devices, there has been a massive expansion in both the type and number of products on offer. From Mods to Pods and Disposables these devices combine with hundreds of choices of liquid flavors and the sheer combination of options can sometimes be overwhelming.
It’s true too, that whilst vaping devices are smoke free, they do still produce the now familiar vapor ‘cloud’ you're used to seeing – that’s because of the propylene glycol in the vape liquid. This handy blog about vaping terminology will also help answer the question “Is heated tobacco vaping?”
Beyond the terminology, there is a practical difference in daily use. While vaping often involves dealing with liquid levels and the potential for leaking pods, heated tobacco offers a cleaner, more consistent session. Because there is no liquid, the flavor remains steady from the first puff to the last, offering a reliable experience without the maintenance often required by vape kits.
Intuitive innovations
The development of heated tobacco products like those created by Ploom has focused on innovating and improving the way real tobacco flavor is enjoyed in the modern world. The very fact that there is no smoke involved is just one reason that they are potentially the more discreet alternative to vaping.
Another reason is size, which as they say, matters. Ergonomically designed to sit comfortably in the palm of your hand, Ploom AURA is our smallest heated tobacco device to date. When you are using Ploom AURA there’s no smoke and less of the unpleasant tobacco smell², wherever you are, be that on the grocery run, heading to the train station, or working from home.
Ploom AURA offers an expanded range of EVO tobacco sticks now on offer. To meet demand for more varied flavor options there are now six unique flavors to choose from.
You can find out more about how Ploom has been at the forefront of innovation in the History of Heated Tobacco blog.
Where innovation meets reduced risk potential
By heating rather than burning tobacco, Ploom AURA produces overall lower levels of harmful substances compared to cigarette smoke.*
That's why Ploom AURA and the unique technology it contains aren't simply change for its own sake. They are the next chapter in the ongoing development of a modern way for adult smokers to enjoy tobacco.
*Based on machine-generated data comparing the levels of select harmful substances in Ploom aerosol relative to 1R6F reference cigarette smoke.
Ploom AURA is an innovative heated tobacco product which we believe has strong potential as a reduced-risk product compared to smoking cigarettes.
If you are still weighing your options or want to know more about battery life and device care, our comprehensive FAQ section has all the answers. It’s a great resource for anyone looking to understand the full benefits of switching to EVO sticks and Ploom AURA.
