Most e-cigarettes are very similar in size, shape and color to a regular tobacco cigarette. There are some variations depending on which manufacturer you decide to purchase from. You can choose from a standard or longer length (similar to kings or 100's) or for cigar smokers there are slightly larger diameter models. So not to leave anyone out e-pipes are available as well.

The most marked and important difference between tobacco cigarettes and electronic cigarettes is the absence of irritating and toxic smoke. There is no tobacco, no burning, no combustion that takes place. So there is no smoke. E-cigarettes contain only a liquid nicotine solution which is inhaled in a water vapor (steam) that feels warm and looks like smoke. The best thing, needless to say, is that it isn't smoke.

Once the nicotine vapor is exhaled, it quickly dissipates leaving you with the same satisfactory sensation you would receive with a tobacco cigarette. Many users refer to this as 'vaping', since vapor is what they're inhaling, And 'vaping' seems to be quickly catching on with the use of the electronic cigarette device spreading widely.

The taste of the nicotine solution is very similar to tobacco. Many users report that it actually tastes cleaner which would make sense given that the harsh chemicals created by burning have been eliminated. Former menthol tobacco smokers will be pleased to learn too that their flavor is also available as are vanilla, chocolate and several fruit flavors. Sounds good to me since I really liked those little cherry flavored cigars. Now I can have the taste without the smoke.

If you've ever smoked a plastic tipped cigar you'll notice little if any difference with the e-cigarette except that 'hoooray!!!!' you'll be smoke free. Another huge plus is that since there is no offensive second hand smoke you can technically 'smoke'/vape anywhere.

Looking at the price of an electronic cigarette starter kit may create some reluctance in current tobacco smokers to switch over. It can range anywhere from 40 to 150 dollars depending on which manufacturer you're dealing with. But let's do a little math. If you are presently a pack a day tobacco smoker and you're spending on the average 4 to 5 dollars per pack then in a month's time you've already spent the cost of the priciest starter kit on the market. And you're still inhaling all those horrible toxins along with the nicotine.

We all know that smoking is a dangerous habit. Many of us may also know someone who suffers from respiratory problems and heart disease as a result of years of smoking. We may have even lost a friend or loved one because of their addiction. I have never, nor will I ever advocate the use of a nicotine product to anyone who does not already have the habit. But being a long-time smoker myself and having tried and not been able to give up the habit I say a smokeless nicotine delivery system is the next best thing. I won't be inhaling carbon monoxide, nitrosamin, polycyclic aromatic hydrocabron or formaldehyde. And more importantly I won't be exposing the people I care about, children or my pets, to smoke filled with toxic substances. So I've just ordered my own starter kit. Maybe you'll see me in the check in line at an airport, happily 'vaping' away.