1. Wattage range: Do you need 40W or 200W? Most people are fine with 50-80W. Higher wattage = bigger clouds but more battery drain.
2. Battery type: Built-in vs replaceable. Replaceable batteries (18650, 21700) let you swap dead batteries for fresh ones. Built-in batteries are more convenient but eventually wear out.
3. Chipset: The chip is the brain of the mod. Better chips fire faster, deliver more consistent power, and have better safety features. Top chips: Evolv DNA, GeekVape AS, Voopoo GENE, Vaporesso AXON.
4. Size & weight: Do you want something pocketable or do you prioritize battery life and power? Dual-battery mods last longer but are bigger.
5. Build quality & durability: Consider the materials (zinc alloy, stainless steel, plastic), IP rating for water/dust resistance, and overall construction quality.
6. Screen & interface: Is the screen easy to read? Is the menu system intuitive? You'll be using this every day — it should be easy to navigate.
7. Charging: USB-C is now standard. Some mods charge faster than others. With replaceable batteries, you'll also want an external charger.
8. Price: Mods range from $25 to $200+. More expensive doesn't always mean better for your needs. Figure out your budget and what features matter most to you.

For a deep dive on wattage, check out our complete vape wattage guide with wattage charts by device type.