So, you’ve taken the plunge into the world of vaping—or maybe you’re thinking about it—and you’ve realised there’s a dizzying array of e-liquids out there.
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the choices (What’s PG? Do you need high VG? What’s the difference between freebase nicotine and nic salts?), you’re not alone. The good news is, once you understand a few basics, choosing the right e-liquid becomes a whole lot simpler.
Below, we’ll walk through the must-know elements of e-liquids, from ratios to flavour profiles, plus a few UK-specific regulations that help keep your vaping journey safe and enjoyable.
Quick Highlights
- PG vs. VG: PG offers a sharper throat hit and flavour intensity, while VG produces thicker clouds and a smoother inhale.
- Nicotine Strength: Ranges from low (0–6mg) up to high (12–20mg), depending on your previous smoking habits or personal preference.
- Freebase vs. Nic Salts: Freebase delivers a noticeable throat hit; nic salts offer smoother inhales—great for higher nic strengths.
- Popular flavours: Fruity, menthol, beverage, dessert, and tobacco flavours all have devoted followings in the UK.
- Safety Matters: TPD regulations limit bottle sizes and nicotine strengths, ensuring better quality control.
Introduction: Why E-Liquid Choices Matter
Imagine finally switching on your new vape kit, only to find the e-liquid tastes off or hits too harshly. It can be a real downer—especially if you’re transitioning from traditional cigarettes.
The right e-liquid is the key to a satisfying vaping experience. Once you nail down the right blend of PG, VG, flavour, and nicotine strength, you’ll likely enjoy a smoother path to quitting smoking (or simply enjoying some flavourful clouds).
1. Understanding E-Liquid Components
What’s in an E-Liquid?
Propylene Glycol (PG)
PG is a light, clear fluid that efficiently carries flavour while delivering a sharper throat hit.
If you’re someone who misses the distinctive “kick” of a traditional cigarette, a higher PG blend might be just what you need.
However, some users, especially those with sensitivities, may find high-PG liquids a bit harsh or irritating.
Vegetable Glycerin (VG)
VG is a thicker liquid with a slight hint of sweetness, making it perfect for producing dense, voluminous vapour clouds. This makes it an excellent choice for direct-to-lung (DTL) vapers who prefer a smoother throat sensation compared to PG-based e-liquids.
Nicotine (Freebase or Nic Salts)
Nicotine in e-liquids comes in two forms. Freebase nicotine is the traditional option, delivering a more pronounced throat hit.
On the other hand, nicotine salts provide a smoother experience even at higher concentrations, making them especially popular in pod devices and mouth-to-lung (MTL) setups.
Flavourings
Flavourings are added to e-liquids to create a variety of taste profiles, ranging from simple fruity notes to complex dessert or tobacco blends. These can be natural, artificial, or a mix of both, ensuring there’s a flavour for everyone.
How PG/VG Ratios Affect Your Vape
High PG (50/50 or 70/30 PG/VG)
A high PG ratio enhances flavour intensity and delivers a stronger throat hit, making it the go-to option for MTL vapers and those using lower-power devices. If you’re looking for a bold, full-bodied flavour, this is the ideal choice.
High VG (70/30 VG/PG or “Max VG”)
A high-VG blend is designed for thicker vapour production and smoother inhales. It works best with sub-ohm or DTL vaping setups that can handle the liquid’s increased viscosity, allowing you to enjoy big, fluffy clouds without compromising on smoothness.
50/50 Blends
A balanced 50/50 mix offers moderate vapour production along with a satisfying throat hit. This ratio is highly versatile and compatible with most vaping devices, making it a popular choice for those seeking a middle-ground experience.
Nicotine Strength & Its Role
Your nicotine level often depends on how many cigarettes you used to smoke and how strong you want your hit to be:
- Low (0–6mg):
Perfect if you’re a social (or light) smoker or simply enjoy blowing bigger clouds without a heavy nicotine kick. - Medium (6–12mg):
Good for moderate smokers transitioning to vaping. Pairs well with 50/50 or 60/40 e-liquids in a range of devices. - High (12–20mg):
Ideal for heavier smokers seeking a strong nicotine fix. If a standard freebase e-liquid at this level feels too harsh, consider nic salts for a gentler throat experience. - Nic Salts vs. Freebase:
- Nic Salts: Smooth inhale, faster nicotine absorption, great for MTL or pod systems.
- Freebase: The more pronounced throat hit, commonly used in mid to high-wattage devices.
2. Matching E-Liquid to Your Vaping Style
Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) Vapers
For those who prefer a mouth-to-lung style, a PG/VG ratio around 50/50 or 60/40 is ideal.
This balance enhances flavour while delivering a satisfying throat hit. Nicotine strengths between 6–20mg work well depending on your previous smoking habits, with nic salts being particularly effective.
Devices like pod systems or low-wattage starter kits are recommended, as they handle thinner e-liquids better and emphasise both flavour and the throat hit.
Direct-to-Lung (DTL) Vapers
If you enjoy direct-to-lung vaping, aim for a blend with a higher VG content—typically a 70/30 ratio or even more VG.
This approach creates thicker vapour clouds and provides a smoother inhaling experience, which is important when higher nicotine levels might feel overwhelming.
Sub-ohm tanks, box mods, or RDAs are the best choices here, as they are designed to handle thicker e-liquids and higher wattages.
Hybrid & Intermediate Vapers
For those who switch between MTL and a bit of direct-to-lung vaping, a 50/50 or 60/40 PG/VG ratio offers the necessary flexibility.
Experiment with nicotine strengths between 3–12mg to find a balance that suits your style. Variable wattage pod mods or mid-range vape pens allow you to adjust power settings easily, making them excellent options for hybrid vaping.
3. Choosing the Right flavour Profile
Popular E-Liquid flavours in the UK
UK vapers have a wide range of flavour preferences. Fruity flavours are a massive hit, with around 47% favouring blends that range from a single-note strawberry to an exotic berry lemonade.
Menthol and mint flavours provide a crisp, cooling sensation that is especially popular among former menthol cigarette smokers; for those seeking a taste reminiscent of traditional cigarettes, tobacco e-liquid flavours are ideal, particularly during the early stages of transition.
Dessert and candy flavours offer indulgent options like custards, creams, or sweet confectionery tastes without the calories, while beverage-inspired flavours—think coffee, cola, tea, or even energy drinks—add a fun twist to your vaping experience.
How to Discover Your Favourite Flavour
When exploring flavours, it can be helpful to start with familiar notes. If you’ve recently switched from smoking, you might find tobacco or menthol options comforting before you branch out to more adventurous tastes.
Many brands offer sample packs or curated samplers, allowing you to try multiple flavours without committing to a full-sized bottle. Finally, to keep your palate fresh and avoid flavour fatigue, consider rotating your flavours periodically rather than sticking with the same one for weeks on end.
4. Industry Trends & Market Insights
Current UK Vaping Trends
- Nic Salts & Disposable-Inspired flavours: With the rise of disposables, many e-liquid brands now mimic popular disposable tastes (Elfliq, Bar Salts, etc.).
- Shift from High-Nic Freebase to Nic Salts: New vapers often choose nic salts for a smoother inhale.
- Eco-Friendliness: A growing push toward refillable pods instead of single-use disposables.
- Potential Disposable Ban: Conversations around banning disposables could make bottled e-liquids even more important. You can see our recommended alternatives to disposables here.
Short-fills vs. Nicotine Shots: The Essentials
- Short-fills Explained: Due to TPD rules, nicotine e-liquids are limited to 10ml bottles. Shortfills are larger bottles (often 50ml or 100ml) that leave space to add your own nic shots.
- Mixing Nic Shots: Simply pour in the shot, shake thoroughly, and you’re all set—just ensure you calculate the correct nicotine level.
- Cost Benefits: Short-fills can be more budget-friendly for frequent vapers, avoiding the need for multiple small bottles.
5. Common Misconceptions & FAQs
Top Myths About E-Liquids
“Higher Nicotine Means More Harmful”
Nicotine is addictive, but the major harm from smoking comes from combustion. Higher nicotine e-liquids offer a stronger hit but aren’t necessarily “more harmful” if used responsibly.
“E-Liquids Contain Antifreeze”
This stems from the use of PG in antifreeze as a non-toxic alternative to dangerous chemicals. PG itself is widely regarded as safe for consumption and is used in foods, cosmetics, and medicines.
“All E-Liquids Are Identical”
Quality can vary dramatically. Trusted brands use higher-grade ingredients and undergo testing, so check labels for TPD compliance and reputable manufacturing standards.
Common Questions (FAQs)
- Can I Mix Different E-Liquids?
Yes! Many vapers enjoy experimenting with blends. Just remember that mixing drastically different PG/VG ratios or nicotine levels can affect consistency. - How Long Does E-Liquid Last?
Most have a shelf life of about two years. Store bottles in a cool, dark place to preserve flavour and nicotine strength. - Why Does My E-Liquid Taste Burnt?
Likely a burnt coil. Check if you’re vaping at a wattage that is too high or if the coil needs replacing. - What’s the Difference Between TPD-Compliant and Non-Compliant E-Liquids?
TPD-compliant e-liquids adhere to UK rules (like max nicotine levels and bottle sizes) and undergo testing/registration. Non-compliant products may be riskier or illegal to sell.
6. Regulatory & Safety Considerations in the UK
TPD Compliance
Under the TPD regulations, nicotine e-liquids in the UK are subject to specific limits to ensure safety. For instance, the bottle size for nicotine-containing liquids is capped at 10ml unless they are sold as short-fills, which contain no nicotine.
Additionally, commercially sold e-liquids cannot exceed a nicotine strength of 20mg/ml (2%). There is also a restriction on the capacity of tanks for nicotine-containing setups, which is limited to 2ml.
Furthermore, harmful additives such as diacetyl and certain colourings are banned to maintain product safety.
Safety Tips for E-Liquid Use
Proper storage and handling of e-liquids are essential for safe use. It is advisable to keep your e-liquids out of reach of children and pets by storing them in a secure, lockable cabinet.
If you are sensitive to propylene glycol (PG), consider opting for a higher vegetable glycerin (VG) blend. Additionally, if you experience any skin or mouth irritation, it might be wise to adjust your flavour choice or the PG/VG ratio.
To maintain safe vaping practices, avoid running your device at excessively high temperatures, replace coils promptly, and regularly check the expiry date on your e-liquid.
7. Final Tips & Recommendations
- Recap: Your perfect vape is all about balancing PG/VG ratio, nicotine level, and flavour.
- Experiment: Start with something similar to what you’re used to (tobacco, menthol, or a balanced PG/VG ratio) and adapt as your tastes evolve.
- Shop Smart: Look for TPD-compliant brands and reputable retailers, whether you’re shopping online or at a local vape shop.
- Join the Community: Forums and vape groups can help you troubleshoot device quirks, discover new flavours, and pick up handy tips (like storing your device upside down to combat leaks).
Conclusion
Finding an e-liquid that suits your style doesn’t have to be an uphill battle. Start by considering your vaping method—MTL or DTL—alongside the ideal PG/VG ratio and nicotine strength.
From there, have fun exploring flavours that make your taste buds sing, whether it’s a classic tobacco blend or a trendy fruit mix. Keep an eye on UK regulations to ensure you’re buying safe, compliant products, and don’t be afraid to experiment.
After all, vaping should be enjoyable, and part of that enjoyment is discovering the perfect e-liquid that keeps you coming back for more. Happy vaping!
