Technology comparison of heated tobacco and vaping

Heated tobacco products and vaping represent two distinct smoke-free technologies used as alternatives to conventional cigarettes. While both avoid the combustion process characteristic of traditional smoking, they function through different mechanisms.

Heated tobacco devices use specially designed tobacco units. These systems, such as IQOS, employ induction or controlled heating elements to warm the tobacco from within without reaching the temperatures required for combustion. This process generates an aerosol containing nicotine instead of smoke and ash.

Vaping, or electronic cigarettes, operates differently by using a heating element to warm a liquid solution known as e-liquid. This liquid can contain nicotine, various flavors, and other components. When heated, the liquid produces an aerosol for inhalation. Unlike heated tobacco, vapes do not use actual tobacco leaves.