For those new to vaping, the world of e-liquids can feel overwhelming. With so many flavours, nicotine strengths, PG/VG ratios, and product types, it’s easy to get lost in the jargon. Fear not – this guide breaks everything down clearly and concisely, helping you understand exactly what e-liquid is and which options best suit your vaping journey.
What Exactly Is E-Liquid?
E-liquid, also known as vape juice or e-juice, is the fluid used in vaping devices. When heated, it transforms into vapour, delivering flavour and, if desired, nicotine. It’s a crucial part of the vaping experience and significantly impacts the quality, satisfaction, and customisability of each puff.
E-liquid typically contains four main ingredients:
- Propylene Glycol (PG) – A thin, flavour-carrying liquid that provides a more pronounced throat hit.
- Vegetable Glycerine (VG) – A thicker, smoother liquid that produces dense vapour clouds.
- Flavourings – Food-grade ingredients that create a wide range of flavours.
- Nicotine (optional) – Available in varying strengths or as nicotine salts for a smoother hit.
The Importance of VG/PG Ratios
The VG/PG ratio in an e-liquid affects not only how it performs in your device but also how it tastes and feels. Here’s a quick guide:
- 50/50 – A balanced mix of flavour and vapour, suitable for most standard vape pens and pod systems.
- High PG (e.g. 70PG/30VG) – Provides a stronger throat hit, more intense flavour, and quicker nicotine delivery – ideal for recent ex-smokers.
- High VG (e.g. 70VG/30PG or higher) – Offers a smoother experience with large vapour clouds, best suited to sub-ohm or high-powered devices.
Types of E-Liquid
1. Ready-to-Vape E-Liquids
These pre-mixed e-liquids come with everything you need, including nicotine. Due to UK regulations, they are typically sold in 10ml bottles.
2. Nicotine Salts (Nic Salts)
Made with nicotine salts, these provide a faster, smoother nicotine hit and are perfect for those looking to curb cravings quickly without the harsh throat hit of traditional freebase nicotine.
Our Top Picks:
- Keep It 100 Range 10ml Nic Salt – Bold flavours with a satisfyingly smooth experience.
- Strawberry Cherry Raspberry 10ml Nic Salt by Bar Juice 5000 – A juicy and refreshing fruit blend.
3. Shortfills
Shortfills are larger bottles (usually 50ml to 500ml) of nicotine-free e-liquid, leaving space to add your own nicotine shots. They’re cost-effective and typically high VG, making them ideal for cloud chasers.
Featured Products:
- Lucky 7 80ml E-Liquid by The King of Vapes – A masterful blend of seven flavours for a rich, full-bodied vape.
- Zingberry (Heisenberry) 500ml E-Liquid by Kingston – A cool Heisenberg-inspired berry mix, perfect for bulk buyers.
Nicotine Shots (Nic Shots)
Nic shots are 10ml unflavoured nicotine liquids designed to be added to shortfills to create your desired strength.
Our Recommendations:
- Nic Nic – Ice Cool Nicotine Shot 10ml 18mg 70VG by My Vapery – Adds nicotine with a refreshing icy kick.
- Nic Up – Nicotine Salt 10ml by Nic Up – Salt-based for smoother delivery, ideal for nic salt shortfills.
DIY E-Liquid and Concentrates
DIY vaping allows you to mix your own VG, PG, nicotine, and flavour concentrates, offering complete control over your e-liquid. It’s a popular option for experienced vapers who enjoy customisation.
Top Concentrates:
- Green Kelly Beverage 30ml Concentrate by T Juice – A fizzy lemonade, raspberry, and citrus blend.
- Silver Blend 30ml Concentrate by Nasty Juice – A luxurious mix of smooth tobacco and vanilla custard.
Are E-Liquids Safe?
E-liquids in the UK are strictly regulated, with all products required to meet safety standards enforced by the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). Additionally, Public Health England has stated that vaping is 95% less harmful than smoking.
However, it’s important to purchase from trusted retailers and check ingredients if you have allergies. All reputable brands avoid harmful additives such as diacetyl.
Ex-Smokers: Choosing the Right Nicotine Strength
Your ideal nicotine strength depends on your previous smoking habits:
- Heavy smoker (20+ cigarettes/day) – 18-20mg
- Moderate smoker (10-20/day) – 10-12mg
- Light smoker (under 10/day) – 3-6mg
- Non-smoker – 0mg (nicotine-free e-liquids)
Many vapers gradually reduce their nicotine strength over time, often moving to 0mg as they transition away from nicotine dependency.
Final Thoughts
Whether you prefer quick, smooth nic salt hits, cloud-chasing with high VG shortfills, or experimenting with DIY blends, there’s an e-liquid for every style and preference.
Still unsure where to start? Explore our entire vape shop or contact our team for tailored advice. Check out our guide to the best vape kit for beginners, too. Vape smart, vape safe, and most importantly – enjoy the journey.
