Understanding these distinctions helps smokers choose the approach that best meets their needs — whether focused on satisfaction, reduced exposure, or quitting entirely.
Internal links for context:
→ Smoking vs Heated Tobacco (Article 36)
→ Smoking vs Vaping (Article 37)
The Fundamental Difference — Tobacco vs E‑Liquid
Category Heated Tobacco Vaping
Contains real tobacco ✔️ Yes ✘ No
Uses e‑liquid ✘ No ✔️ Yes
Aerosol source Heated tobacco substrate Vaporized liquid
Flavor profile Tobacco‑dominant Wide variety (menthol, fruit, dessert)
User ritual Similar to smoking Flexible, varied
📌 Heated tobacco = closest experience to cigarettes
📌 Vaping = the most customizable alternative
Temperature and Combustion Risk
Product Operating Temperature Combustion Risk
Cigarettes 600–900°C 🔥 Extremely high
Heated Tobacco 250–350°C ⚠️ Very low
Vaping 180–250°C ➖ None if operated correctly
Less heat = fewer combustion‑related toxicants.
Technical background:
→ Induction Heating Technology Explained (Article 44)
Chemical Exposure Comparison
Chemical Group Cigarettes Heated Tobacco Vaping
Tar High Very low None
Carbon monoxide Very high Significantly lower None
TSNAs High Reduced Minimal
Formaldehyde (thermal decomposition) High Low Depends on device settings
📌 Both alternatives present dramatically lower emissions than smoking
📌 Vaping removes tobacco‑specific carcinogens entirely
Scientific toxicant analysis:
→ Toxicant Levels: Cigarettes vs Alternatives (Article 28)
Nicotine Delivery and Dependence Profile
Factor Heated Tobacco Vaping
Speed to brain 10–20 sec ~20 sec
Reinforcement strength High Moderate–High
Throat hit realism Strong Varies by device & formula
Suitability for heavy smokers Very good Good with nicotine salts
Heated tobacco = better match for smokers needing strong behavioral continuity
Vaping = better for step‑down nicotine control
See more:
→ Nicotine Strengths Across Devices (Article 33)
User Experience — What Smokers Notice First
H3: Heated Tobacco
• Routine similar to cigarettes
• Session lasts one stick → structured format
• Mild tobacco aroma without smoke
• Less learning curve
Vaping
• More flavors & customization
• No session limit → can lead to frequent small puffs
• Very little smell — easier socially
Choice depends on personal identity as a smoker.
