Vaping continues to gain popularity as many people see vaping as an alternative to smoking. But if you've never tried it, you might be wondering where to start. For instance, what are the different types of e liquid, anyway?
For a beginner, the various terminology and the different types of e juice can get confusing. The good news is that the basics of vaping are simple.
We break down the terms you need to know and explain the various types of vape juice in this beginner's guide.
MTL vs DL Devices
The two different types of vapes are MTL (mouth-to-lung) and DL (direct lung).
Standard vaping devices use atomizers over 1.0 ohms. Sub ohm vape devices use atomizers lower than 1.0 ohms.
Ohm is a measurement of electrical resistance. In vaping, it's the resistance of a coil in an atomizer or the amount of current allowed through.
Standard vapes are MTL devices. This means you draw the vapor in your mouth before inhaling. It's similar to the draw of a cigarette.
When you use DL devices, you inhale the vapor right into the lungs.
The type of vape you have impacts the kind of vape liquid you should buy and use. Consider a vape starter kit if you're an absolute beginner.
What's in Vape Juice?
There are four parts to vape juice. These include Propylene Glycol (PG), Vegetable Glycerin (VG), nicotine, and flavoring.
Propylene Glycol is an additive you might see in foods or medications. The higher the level of PG, the bigger the throat hit. Many smokers like vape juices with a higher PG level because it mimics the feel of a cigarette.
Vegetable Glycerin (VG) is an additive and preservative. Juices with more VG provide a smoother experience and have a strong burst of flavor.
There are various nicotine levels found in vape juices from 0mg - 36mg. You can find juices with no nicotine if you just like the flavor and feeling of vaping.
The last ingredient found in vape juices is flavoring. There are also flavor-free options. All flavorings are food-grade and should be lab-created to ensure there are no impurities.
Higher Ratio of PG
A higher concentration of PG is good for smokers that like an intense throat hit. PG is thinner and favored by smokers looking to quit because it mimics the feeling of smoking.
The stronger hit provided by high-PG liquids can cause some throat irritation. Some people may also be allergic to PG.
High-level PG liquids are best for atomizers above 1.0 ohms.
Higher Ratio of VG
Higher concentrations of VG are best for anyone that wants more vapor and bigger clouds. VG is thicker than PG and tends to be sweet. High-level VG ratios are best for mods.
VG-based liquids tend to be less of a problem for those allergic to PG liquids.
High-level VG vape juices are best for atomizers around 0.5 ohms to 0.9 ohms.
50/50 Ratio
A 50/50 ratio of VG to PG is ideal for atomizers that range between 1.0 ohms to 1.8 ohms. This ratio is often used in nicotine salt products.
At 50 percent VG and 50 percent PG, you'll have a sweet flavor and a decent throat hit. Plus, you'll have a decent amount of vapor. This ratio works with almost every vape device out there.
100 Percent VG or PG
Max VG means there is no (or very little) PG in the liquid.
If you have a PG allergy, you may need to make sure that PG wasn't used as a carrier for the flavoring.
100 percent PG provides a strong hit and a nice, crisp flavor. VG may overpower the flavor, diluting the taste of flavorings. There is less vapor production, which some people prefer.
However, it can be hard to find 100 percent PG vape juice. Many mixtures use a small amount of VG.
Nicotine Salt
Most types of e juice use a pure form of nicotine collected from the tobacco leaves. You create nicotine salt by combining pure or freebase nicotine with certain acids.
Nicotine salts provide a more intense flavor experience. They're also less harsh than regular vape juice. A nicotine salt vape juice provides more punch and is often the go-to product for heavy smokers.
However, nicotine salt e liquids only work in vape pens and certain pods.
The Different Nicotine Levels
Now that you know about the different ratios of PG to VG, it's time to talk about nicotine levels.
The nicotine levels in vape juice vary from 0 - 36mg. The ideal amount for you depends on how much you smoke.
Heavy Smokers
If you smoke a pack a day or more, you probably fall into the heavy smoker category. Many heavy smokers enjoy high nicotine content vape juices.
But if you're a beginner and trying vaping for the first time, don't be afraid to experiment. Finding the right strength level for you takes some trial and error.
Contact your vape store and ask for a recommendation or try starting with 11mg, 16mg, 18mg or 20mg. If you need more punch, nicotine salt vape juice may be for you.
Average Smokers
In general, an average or light smoker smokes up to ten cigarettes per day. This number may vary depending on your situation or preferences.
There are many flavors and ratio options out there for light to average smokers. Most smokers switching to vaping like the 6mg strength best.
3mg is the lowest level of nicotine available and good for anyone trying to quit smoking. Though you may need to work your way down.
Non-Smokers
For those that like the flavor of vape juices or the feeling of vaping, there is a nicotine-free option. Some vape liquids have 0mg of nicotine, which means there is no nicotine in the mixture.
The Different Types of Vape Juice Flavors
There are over 7,000 different flavors of vape juice on the market. Many of those are different flavor combinations, meaning the possibilities are almost endless.
Discovering the right flavor might take some time, though you could always ask for a recommendation.
Another option is to start with flavorless juices. This type is good for anyone worried about the potential health risks connected to flavorings.
What Is the Best Vape Juice for Beginners?
There are many different types of vape juice and finding the right balance may take time. Experiment with different flavors and check your vape kit to learn which PG/VG ratios you can use with it.
Do you have questions about finding the right vape juice for you? Send us a message or stop by if you're in the Niagara Falls area.