IQOS

IQOS ILUMA vs IQOS Originals

If you're looking to buy IQOS in the UK, the first decision is which generation suits you. There are two main families: the newer IQOS ILUMA range and the older IQOS Originals. They work differently, and the tobacco sticks aren't interchangeable.

IQOS Originals use a ceramic blade that heats a tobacco stick (HEETS) from the inside. They've been around for years and do the job well, but the blade needs occasional cleaning and can break if you're not careful.

IQOS ILUMA ditched the blade entirely. Instead, it uses induction heating through a metal element inside the tobacco stick itself. That means no cleaning, no residue buildup, and a more consistent experience. ILUMA devices only work with TEREA sticks — not HEETS.

Within the ILUMA range, you've got three tiers. The ILUMA One is the entry point — a single-piece device, good for people who want something simple. The standard ILUMA splits into a holder and pocket charger, giving you more sessions between charges. And the ILUMA Prime adds premium materials and a slightly larger battery. The heating technology is identical across all three.

Which IQOS is right for you?

Just getting started? The ILUMA One keeps things simple. One device, no fuss, lower upfront cost.

Switching from smoking full-time? Go for the standard ILUMA. The separate charger means you can get through a full day without worrying about battery.

Want the premium option? The ILUMA Prime feels noticeably more refined. Same technology inside, but the build quality is a step up.

IQOS works out significantly cheaper than smoking over time. A pack of TEREA sticks costs less than cigarettes, and the device pays for itself within weeks. Browse our full heated tobacco range to find compatible sticks.

How IQOS works

IQOS heats real tobacco rather than burning it. The current ILUMA range uses SmartCore Induction — a metal element embedded in the TEREA stick heats from inside, no blade required. The older Originals and Duo devices used a ceramic blade to heat HEETS sticks from the outside; both the devices and HEETS were retired in 2025.

To use the current ILUMA system: insert a TEREA stick into the holder, press and hold the button to start, wait around 20 seconds for the LED to go solid, then inhale. A session lasts roughly 6 minutes or 14 puffs. The device vibrates twice as the session ends. Lift the spent stick straight out — TEREA isn't designed to be twisted, unlike the old HEETS.

TEREA flavour categories

The TEREA range covers three flavour groups:

Classic — Yellow, Amber, Teak, Sienna, Russet. Tobacco-forward blends from light and mellow through to roasted and full-bodied.

Menthol — Turquoise (light), Green (peppermint balance), Blue (bold cool menthol).

Aromatic and Pearl — Mauve Wave (berry-mint), plus newer Pearl flavours like Abora, Amelia, Starling and Twilight Pearl with fruit and aromatic notes.

For the full lineup with descriptions, see our TEREA collection — all flavours in stock from £6.95 a pack, multi-buy 10 for £66.