A pack of cigarettes now costs over 12€ in France. For a smoker of one pack a day, that's more than 4,380€ per year going up in smoke. Is the e-cigarette really cheaper? We did the math for you.
The real cost of tobacco in France in 2026
The price of tobacco in France increases every year by government decision. In 2026:
- Pack of 20 cigarettes: 12.00 to 13.50€
- Roll-your-own tobacco (30g): 16.00 to 18.00€
- Smoker of 1 pack/day: 4,380 to 4,927€/year
- Smoker of 10 cigarettes/day: 2,190 to 2,463€/year
The real cost of e-cigarettes
Option 1: Pod kit + e-liquid (regular vaper)
This is the most economical solution in the long run:
- Beginner pod kit: 30 to 60€ (one-time purchase)
- E-liquid 50ml: 8 to 15€ - lasts 2 to 4 weeks depending on use
- Coils (pack of 5): 10 to 15€ - lasts 2 to 4 weeks
- Estimated monthly cost: 20 to 35€
- Annual cost: 240 to 420€
Option 2: Rechargeable puff (intermediate solution)
For those who want the simplicity of a puff without the cost of disposables:
- Crown Bar 30K puff: 15 to 22€ - lasts 3 to 7 weeks
- Estimated monthly cost: 30 to 45€
- Annual cost: 360 to 540€
Option 3: Disposable puff (occasional use)
To avoid for daily use:
- Disposable puff 600 puffs: 5 to 10€
- To replace 1 pack/day: 2 to 4 puffs/week
- Monthly cost: 40 to 160€
Comparison table - Annual savings by profile
| Profile | Tobacco/year | Vape kit/year | Vape puff/year | Kit savings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1/2 pack/day | 2,190€ | 240€ | 360€ | -1,950€ |
| 1 pack/day | 4,380€ | 360€ | 540€ | -4,020€ |
| 1.5 packs/day | 6,570€ | 480€ | 720€ | -6,090€ |
Is the e-cigarette less dangerous?
The economic aspect is important, but the health aspect is even more so. According to Santé Publique France and Public Health England, the e-cigarette is estimated to be 95% less harmful than traditional cigarettes. It does not produce combustion, so no carbon monoxide, no tar, no benzene.
It is not without risk - nicotine remains an addictive substance - but the benefit/risk ratio is massively in favor of vaping for a smoker who wants to quit.
Where to start? Our recommendation
For a smoker who wants to switch to vaping:
- Start with a rechargeable puff (Crown Bar 25K or 30K) to get the feel of a cigarette without the technical aspect
- After 2-3 weeks, if you're convinced, invest in a pod kit to further reduce costs
- Gradually reduce the nicotine level over 6 to 12 months
- See our selection of puffs to get started
FAQ
Is the e-cigarette reimbursed by Social Security?
No, the e-cigarette is not reimbursed. However, nicotine substitutes (patches, gums) are partially reimbursed. A doctor can prescribe smoking cessation support via Tabac Info Service (3989).
How much does it cost to start vaping?
A complete beginner kit costs between 30 and 60€, including e-liquid. At Alliancetech.fr, shipping is free from 29€.
Can you really save 4,000€ per year?
Yes, for a smoker of one pack a day. The actual savings depend on the type of vape chosen and consumption, but in any case, vaping is 5 to 10 times cheaper than tobacco.