Lately, IQOS devices have been increasingly visible in social gatherings. For those who might be looking for an alternative to conventional cigarettes or vaping, this device is indeed a frequent topic of conversation.

In Indonesia, IQOS is marketed and produced by PT HM Sampoerna Tbk, which is part of the global tobacco company Philip Morris International (PMI).

However, for those who are not yet familiar with it, they might still be confused and wondering, what exactly is IQOS and how does it work? So you don't miss out on any information, let's thoroughly examine it, from its definition, variants, price range, to its differences from cigarettes and vapes!

What is IQOS?

Simply put, IQOS is an innovative electronic device that works by heating real tobacco, not burning it. This technology is known as Heat-Not-Burn (HNB).

Because there is no combustion process like with conventional cigarettes, this device does not produce thick smoke, ash, or a pungent odor that often clings to clothes or fingers.

Instead, this device produces tobacco vapor (aerosol) which is claimed to significantly reduce exposure to harmful chemicals compared to regular cigarette smoke.

Getting to Know Terea IQOS

If vape users need e-liquid or cartridges, IQOS requires special tobacco sticks. For the latest generation device (IQOS Iluma series), the tobacco sticks used are called Terea IQOS.

Terea sticks are specially designed with a small metal heating element inside. This sealed design means the device doesn't get dirty easily, and users don't have to bother cleaning tobacco residue inside the device after use.

Terea also offers a wide range of flavors, from original tobacco characteristics, refreshing menthol, to fruity aromas.

Note: Some Terea variants indeed have unusual aromas (many say they smell like farts). But don't worry, this smell evaporates very easily in the air and does not cling at all to clothes or hands like cigarette smoke; it might just take some getting used to at first.

How Much Does IQOS Cost?

For those of you who are starting to get interested in trying it, you must be curious about the budget you need to prepare. The price of IQOS itself actually varies depending on the device series you choose (such as Iluma One, Iluma Standard, or the most premium Iluma Prime).

Currently, the price of an IQOS device ranges from around Rp 400,000 to Rp 1,500,000. Meanwhile, Terea sticks are sold at a price roughly equivalent to premium conventional cigarettes per pack (around Rp 30,000 and up).

Besides official IQOS stores, devices and Terea are now easier to find because they are available in certain vape stores like Vapeboss. Especially for Terea, you can even restock easily as it is widely sold in nearby minimarkets like Indomaret.

Differences Between IQOS, Vapes, and Regular Cigarettes

Although all three are consumed by inhalation, they have very different operating systems and raw materials. To make it easier to understand, check the comparison in the following table:

Conclusion

In essence, IQOS bridges the gap for people who want to experience the sensation of inhaling real tobacco like cigarettes, but in a more modern way and without combustion.

So, for those who don't like the sweet or fruity taste of vape e-liquid, this heat-not-burn device could be an interesting alternative option to try.

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