IQOS HEETS vs. Terea Sticks – Understanding the Difference
Jessica Tyson
15/09/2025 • 5 min readFor UK smokers on the lookout for smoke-free alternatives, the world of heated tobacco can be a little confusing. Especially when you’re faced with choosing between IQOS HEETS and TEREA sticks. Both are TPD-compliant and designed for adult smokers looking to switch to a potentially less harmful option than cigarettes — but how exactly do they differ? Let’s break it down and understand the main difference between these two products.
Getting to Know Heated Tobacco Products
Heated tobacco products have gained popularity in recent years as a potentially less harmful alternative to smoking cigarettes. These products use real tobacco, but instead of burning it, they heat it to produce a vapour. This process reduces the amount of harmful chemicals released, making it a more appealing option for those looking to quit or reduce their smoking habits.
IQOS TEREA tobacco sticks, in particular, utilise the SmartCore Induction System, which features a metal heating element to provide a consistent heated tobacco experience. By heating rather than burning, these products offer a cleaner and more controlled way to enjoy tobacco.
What are IQOS Devices?
IQOS devices are electronic devices designed to heat specially crafted tobacco sticks, such as TEREA sticks, to produce a vapor. These devices are part of a new generation of heated tobacco products that aim to provide a similar experience to smoking cigarettes without the harmful effects of burning tobacco.
The IQOS ILUMA device, for example, uses the SmartCore Induction System to heat TEREA sticks, providing a unique and satisfying taste experience. IQOS devices are available in various models, including the IQOS ILUMA and IQOS ILUMA ONE, each designed to work exclusively with TEREA sticks. This innovative technology ensures a consistent and enjoyable experience for users.
Browse all IQOS productsWhat Are HEETS?
HEETS are the tried-and-true tobacco sticks created for use with older IQOS devices, like the IQOS ORIGINALS DUO. They use HeatControl™ technology, which means the tobacco is heated (not burned) by a ceramic sensor blade inside the device. This produces a vapour containing nicotine, without creating smoke or ash.
You’ll get around 14 puffs or 6 minutes of use from each stick, and they come in a familiar flavour range — think Amber, Yellow, Turquoise, and Sienna. One thing to keep in mind: Because the ceramic blade comes into direct contact with the tobacco, the device needs regular cleaning to keep it performing at its best.
What Is TEREA?
TEREA is the new generation of heated tobacco sticks, made exclusively for the IQOS ILUMA range. These sticks work with the Smartcore Induction System™, an advanced heating technology that heats the tobacco from within using a metal element — no blade, no mess, no cleaning. That’s one of the biggest perks for ILUMA users.
Like HEETS, each TEREA stick gives you around 14 puffs or 6 minutes, and the flavour range is even broader. The design is fully sealed for added convenience.
HEETS vs. TEREA: What’s the Real Difference?
Here’s a quick side-by-side to make the differences easier to understand:
Feature | HEETS | TEREA |
---|---|---|
Device Compatibility | IQOS ORIGINALS & earlier | IQOS ILUMA only |
Heating Method | Ceramic blade (HeatControl™) | Induction heating (bladeless) |
Cleaning Required | Yes | No |
Flavour Range | Standard | Broader |
Flavours of IQOS Products
IQOS products, including TEREA sticks, come in a range of flavours to cater to different tastes and preferences. The TEREA range offers various tobacco flavors, including classic and menthol. These flavors are designed to provide a unique and enjoyable experience for users, with the added benefit of reduced harmful chemicals compared to conventional cigarettes.
How to Use IQOS Devices
Using IQOS devices is relatively straightforward. To start, simply insert a TEREA stick into the IQOS ILUMA device, making sure the filter and ‘TEREA’ printed word are facing up. The device will then heat the tobacco stick, producing a vapour that can be inhaled. It’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper use and maintenance to ensure optimal performance and a satisfying experience.
The IQOS ILUMA device is designed to work exclusively with TEREA sticks, so it’s crucial to use the correct type of tobacco stick to avoid damaging the device. This ensures you get the best possible experience every time.
TPD-Compliant & UK-Ready
Both HEETS and TEREA fully comply with the Tobacco Products Directive (TPD), so you can feel confident you're choosing from products that meet the UK and the European Union’s highest standards. Availability may vary slightly depending on flavour restrictions in your region, but both are widely stocked by official IQOS retailers and authorised online shops across the UK.
Which One Is Right for You?
It really comes down to device compatibility and lifestyle preferences. Already using an older IQOS device? HEETS will work perfectly for you. Prefer something low-maintenance and sleek? TEREA paired with the IQOS ILUMA offers a sealed design, no blade to clean, and a balanced flavor profile.
Explore the IQOS Experience
Whether you’re team HEETS or curious about TEREA, there’s a whole world of heated tobacco flavours waiting to be explored.
Discover more about IQOS products and find your perfect match with FREESMO.
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