There are two types of people: those who make the extra effort to mix flavors and light up charcoal to enjoy good tea and thick smoke clouds over a session of shisha, and those who prefer keeping it simple with a portable, hand-held electronic device called a vape.
As the popularity of both is on the rise, enthusiasts are wondering which of the two methods of smoking is safer, better, and more fun.
Therefore, we decided to have a faceoff between vape and shisha. This post will help people who’re considering switching from their usual method of smoking, as well as new smokers, to decide which way is right for them.
Shisha Vs. Vape – A Brief Introduction
Shisha, or hookah, is a traditional way of smoking that originated in ancient Persia and India. It’s a water pipe with different components, including a bowl (a shisha head), a hose (to inhale smoke through), and a water bowl at the base. Shisha is more of a social activity. Friends gather around a shisha to catch up and relax over long conversations, making it a popular choice among social gatherings.
Vapes (or vaporizers), on the other hand, are a type of e-cigarette. They’re an electronic device with a battery, tank, coil, and mouthpiece. E-cigarettes are a Chinese invention, first introduced in 2003. Unlike shisha, vaping is a more personal experience and can be enjoyed alone or with friends. There are several different types of vaping devices, varying in size and shape. A few examples include vape pens, box mods, and pod systems.
The Mechanics of Smoke Production
Both shisha and vape produce smoke when heated. However, the mechanics behind smoke production are different for each.
Shisha Smoke Production
If you’re a true shisha lover, you know how it works. But for those of you who are new to it, here’s the flavorful mechanism:
The shisha head is filled with flavored wet tobacco and covered with perforated aluminum foil. When you place charcoal over the head, the tobacco starts ‘cooking.’ So, when you inhale through the mouthpiece, you taste the tobacco’s flavor and experience the joy of a thick white cloud of shisha smoke.
Vape Smoke Production
E-cigarettes, like vapes, have an electronic mechanism. It all starts with pouring e-juice into the tank. Since the tank is connected to a coil and battery, when you inhale from the mouthpiece, the battery heats the coil, which in turn heats the e-liquid and produces smoke.
Similarities Between Shisha and Vape
Fun Flavor Options
It’s all about the flavor, isn’t it? Well, lucky for you, shisha tobacco and vape e-liquids come in various yummy flavors. Shisha tobacco has more traditional options like Double Apple, Mango, Kiwi, Mint, and more. E-liquid flavors can be fruity or dessert-like. You can mix two flavors of your choice to create your unique mix.
Thick Cloud of Smoke
Let’s agree that a thick white cloud of smoke is oddly satisfying. It’s an unsaid rule that the more smoke you blow out, the cooler you are. Both shisha and vape produce thick clouds of smoke that add to the overall experience.
Customizable Components
Like there are different types of vaping devices, you can also customize shisha according to your preference. You can choose from different head sizes and shapes, hoses of various lengths and materials, and even base designs.
Health Risks
No type of smoking is healthier than no smoking at all. Therefore, shisha and vapes are both believed to have certain health effects. We recommend taking things slow and in moderation to reduce the risk of negative health impacts.
Differences Between Shisha and Vape
Preparation
The most attractive aspect of vaping is its ready-to-use nature. You only have to fill a tank to enjoy the flavor and smoke. However, with a shisha, you must fill the base with water, mix flavors, fill them in the head and heat charcoal. Sometimes, it feels too much work; however, for some, it adds to the overall experience.
Session Duration
Shisha sessions with friends can last from 30 minutes to 2 hours (even more). They become fun social gatherings with food, gossip, and smoke. It’s because people come together, especially because of the love of shisha. Vaping, conversely, is personal. You smoke a few puffs when you want to and go about your day.
Convenience and Maintenance
Setting up a shisha takes time. Enthusiasts usually meet at a designated spot, mostly a shisha cafe, to enjoy a session. But since you’re always carrying your vape, there’s no “special” gathering required. You can smoke whenever and wherever you like.
Beware, though, that vapes require maintenance such as coil change, tank cleaning, and battery charging.
Nicotine Levels
Shisha tobacco comes with a certain amount of nicotine, which is decided by the manufacturer. There’s very limited control over the nicotine levels. E-juices, however, have varying levels of nicotine (including 0%) and allow you to choose how much you want in your vape.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Disposable Vape?
A disposable vape is the most convenient vape choice. It’s a single-use e-cigarette that comes with pre-filled liquid. When the liquid ends, you can dispose of the vape and grab a new one. Easy. Luckily, this device isn’t very pricey, making it great for beginners.
Can I Find Electronic Shisha in Dubai?
Yes, you can easily find electronic shisha in Dubai. It’s a battery-operated device with a heating element that produces smoke. You don’t need charcoal for it.
Finding the Right Smoking Alternative
Shisha and vape both offer a unique smoking experience. While one is more social, the other offers the convenience of privacy and portability. If you’re a beginner considering vaping, we recommend grabbing a disposable vape so you can understand whether it’s the right choice for you.
We hope this post helps you decide which side you want to explore. Regardless of what you choose, White Mist Cloud has your back. We offer an exciting collection of vapes, shisha, e-liquid, and shisha tobacco. Explore our website to find your next cool device and flavor.

