Millennials vs Gen Z, Vaping Trends, Habits & Preferences

Vaping culture isn’t one-size-fits-all, and as the vape market keeps evolving, Millennials and Gen Z are shaping it in two very different ways. From preferred devices to flavour choices, spending habits to social patterns, these two generations bring unique tastes and influences to the vaping scene. Whether you’re shopping for your next vape or trying to understand what’s trending in Canada and beyond, it helps to know how each generation approaches the vape lifestyle.

In this article, we break down the key differences, backed by trends, behaviour insights, and product patterns, so you can see how Millennials and Gen Z are redefining the vape world.

1. Who Are We Talking About?

Before we dive in, let’s quickly define the generations:

• • • Millennials: Born between 1981 and 1996 – now roughly 29–44 years old.

    • Gen Z: Born between 1997 and 2012 – now roughly 13–28 years old (but only adults 19+ participate in legal vaping).

Both groups are influential, tech-savvy, and trend-driven, but their habits differ in interesting ways.

2. Device Preferences: More Than Just Clouds

Millennials: Value & Functionality

Millennials often prioritise quality, reliability, and longevity. They may prefer:

• • • Refillable pod systems

    • Box mods and rechargeable devices

    • Devices with replaceable coils and batteries

This generation tends to invest in devices that last and deliver consistent performance.

Gen Z: Convenience & Simplicity

Gen Z loves simplicity and trendiness. Disposable vapes remain a major favourite, especially when they offer:

• • • Stylish, colourful designs

    • Age-appropriate nicotine salt blends

    • Compact, easy-to-carry formats

Popular disposables like Allo Ultra 500 Disposable Vape (20 mg) or Fog Formulas Disposable Vape (20 mg) are classic choices for Gen Z, no setup, no refilling, just instant enjoyment.

Overall, Gen Z’s choices are shaped by on-the-go lifestyles and social aesthetic appeal.

3. Flavour Trends: What’s Hot?

Both generations enjoy flavour diversity, but their patterns differ.

Millennials

• • • Lean towards complex, sophisticated notes

    • Sweet & dessert profiles

    • Balanced blends like tobacco-cream fusion or coffee-infused

Millennials often treat vaping like a refined taste experience, a bit like pairing drinks with food.

Gen Z

• • • Favour bright, fun, trendy flavours

    • Fruity, icy, or candy-inspired profiles

    • Quick hits that match social moments

According to industry trackers, flavours like berry + menthol blends and tropical ice remain top searches among Gen Z vapers.

However, Canada has nicotine concentration limits (maximum 20 mg/mL), and regulations are evolving, so flavour creativity rises within those boundaries.

4. Habits & Social Behaviour

Millennials

• • • Vape while multitasking (work, leisure, gaming)

    • Research products before buying

    • Prefer higher quality over flashiness

Many Millennials grew up with early vape culture and shifted from smoking to vaping, so health perception and product education matter.

Gen Z

• • • Use vaping as a social activity

    • Share flavours and devices with friends

    • Follow vape trends on TikTok, Instagram & online communities

Gen Z discussions around vaping are often community-driven and trend-oriented.

5. Spending Patterns

• • • Millennials are more likely to spend on mid-to-high-end devices and accessories.

    • Gen Z often spends more on disposable vapes and colourful limited-edition releases.

This difference is partly due to budget priorities, Millennials may prioritise long-lasting gear, while Gen Z values novelty and trend alignment.

6. Social Media & Vaping Culture

Gen Z discussions thrive on viral trends, challenges, short video clips, and influencer reviews. Platforms like TikTok shape what’s “in”, and which vaping setups go viral next.

Millennials are more likely to read articles, forums, and long-form reviews before buying or switching devices.

Both generations, however, share online spaces where vape culture is discussed and celebrated.

Final Thoughts, What This Means for the Vape Market

Millennials and Gen Z both contribute strongly to vaping culture, but they do it in different 

Aspect	Millennials	Gen Z
Device Preference	Refillable & rechargeable	Disposables & trendy
Flavours	Complex, refined	Bright, bold
Spending	Quality investment	Trend-driven buys
Social Trends	Research-first	Social media influenced

 

Understanding these patterns helps brands, retailers, and fellow vapers stay in tune with what’s resonating today, whether you’re browsing flagship gear or grabbing the latest disposable hits.