If you’re new to vaping, you’ve likely encountered terms like 50VG/50PG, 0mg, or nicotine salts. These numbers and abbreviations might seem confusing at first, but they’re crucial to crafting your ideal vaping experience. In this guide, we’ll break down what these terms mean and how they affect your vape.

VG and PG: The Foundation of E-Liquids

The VG/PG ratio is one of the most common numbers you’ll see on e-liquid bottles. It refers to the proportion of Vegetable Glycerin (VG) to Propylene Glycol (PG) in the mix. Here’s a quick overview of each:

Vegetable Glycerin (VG)

• Thicker consistency.
• Produces large, dense vapor clouds.
• Provides a smoother throat hit.
• Best suited for sub-ohm devices and direct-to-lung (DTL) vaping.

Propylene Glycol (PG):

• Thinner liquid.
• Excellent at carrying flavors.
• Delivers a stronger throat hit, similar to cigarettes.
• Works best for mouth-to-lung (MTL) vaping.

Common VG/PG Ratios

• 50VG/50PG: A balanced mix, perfect for beginners and MTL vaping.
• 70VG/30PG: Designed for cloud chasers and DTL devices.
• 100VG: Rare but ideal for those sensitive to PG.

Choosing the Right Ratio:

Your vaping device and preferences will determine the best ratio for you. For smoother hits and larger clouds, go for higher VG. For stronger flavor and throat hit, opt for higher PG.

Nicotine Strength: What Does 0mg or 3mg Mean?

The nicotine strength, displayed in milligrams per milliliter (mg/ml), tells you how much nicotine is in the e-liquid. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• 0mg: No nicotine, great for flavor enthusiasts or those weaning off nicotine entirely.
• 3mg-6mg: Low levels, ideal for sub-ohm vaping where more vapor compensates for less nicotine.
• 12mg-18mg: Higher strengths, suitable for MTL devices and smokers transitioning to vaping.
• Nicotine Salts: Provide high nicotine levels (up to 50mg) with a smoother throat hit, often used in pod systems.

How to Choose Your Nicotine Strength

If you’re new to vaping, start with a strength that matches your smoking habits. Heavy smokers might prefer 12mg or higher, while casual or social smokers might opt for 3mg or 6mg.

Other Important Numbers to Know

Ohms (Ω): Refers to the resistance of your coil

Sub-ohm (below 1 ohm): Produces more vapor and is ideal for high VG liquids. Above-ohm (1 ohm or higher): Delivers a tighter draw, perfect for high PG liquids.

Wattage and Voltage

Most modern devices allow you to adjust wattage or voltage. Always follow the recommended settings on your coil to avoid burning it or negatively impacting the flavor.

Puffs Per Day

Many devices track how many puffs you take daily. Monitoring this can help you manage nicotine intake and avoid overuse.

Why These Numbers Matter

Understanding these numbers is essential for a tailored vaping experience. They help you:

• Choose the right e-liquid for your device.
• Achieve your desired throat hit and vapor production.
• Avoid issues like coil burnout or dry hits from using incompatible liquids.

Vaping is a personal journey, and understanding the numbers behind your e-liquids and devices is key to getting the most out of it. Whether you’re looking for smooth clouds, strong flavor, or a satisfying nicotine hit, the right combination of VG/PG ratio, nicotine strength, and device settings can make all the difference. Take the time to experiment and find what works best for you. After all, vaping is all about customization and enjoying the process.