Written By Joshua Bainbridge - Content Executive at JM Wholesale
As an informed vaper, you understand that the two main ingredients in e-liquid are vegetable glycerine (VG) and propylene glycol (PG). VG and PG provide the vapour and flavour when heated, but they have some key differences you should consider based on your vaping device.
Understanding VG and PG: What Are They and How Are They Used in Vaping?
Vegetable Glycerine (VG) and Propylene Glycol (PG) are the two main base ingredients used in e-liquids for vaping devices. VG is a thick, sweet liquid derived from vegetable oils, while PG is a thinner, colourless organic compound.
VG produces thicker clouds of vapour and a smoother hit, while PG provides more of a throat hit and carries flavours better. E-liquid producers use different ratios of VG and PG to produce the desired vaping experience for the user and suitability for their device. More VG is better for sub-ohm, high-powered devices that can handle the thicker liquid and produce big clouds. More PG is better for low power vaping equipment like pod based systems.
E-Liquids for mouth-to-lung vaping with less vapour, a 50/50 VG/PG ratio or 60VG/40PG is common. For direct-lung vaping and bigger clouds, 70VG/30PG to max VG is popular. In the end, you need to analyse how much vapour and what kind of throat hit is right for you and choose a VG/PG ratio that is suitable for your vaping device to produce the experience you desire. Both VG and PG are deemed safe for vaping in controlled amounts, but PG sensitivity can develop over time with repeated use in some vapers.
VG For Vapour Production
VG produces dense clouds of vapour due to its thicker properties. E-liquids high in VG, around 70% VG or more, are ideal for cloud chasing and suited for sub-ohm vaping devices that can handle higher VG. In contrast, PG produces less vapour and is better for smaller vaping devices with less power.
PG For Flavour And Throat Hit
E-liquids high in PG provide a strong throat hit similar to traditional cigarettes. The higher the PG, the harsher the throat hit will be. VG produces almost no throat hit, so e-liquids high in VG provide a very smooth vape.
PG carries flavour better than VG, so e-liquids higher in PG tend to have bolder, more pronounced flavours. VG mutes flavours slightly. Many e-liquid recipes use a combination of VG and PG to produce substantial vapour and rich flavour.
In summary, the VG to PG ratio in an e-liquid determines vapour production, throat hit, and flavour. Analyse how much of each property you want based on your device's capabilities and personal preferences to find an e-liquid with a VG/PG balance that provides an optimal vaping experience for you.
How VG And PG Affect Flavour
Many vapers prefer a balance of 50VG/50PG for solid vapour production and a flavour that still shines through. In the end, it comes down to personal preference and how the e-liquid interacts with your vaping device. If you use a high-wattage mod, a higher VG level may be better so you don't get an overpowering, burnt taste. For smaller kits and pod devices, a higher PG level is typically recommended since they can't handle high VG e-liquids as well.
Experiment with different VG and PG ratios to find what works best based on how you like to vape. Keep in mind that vape juice with a higher VG concentration may require a more powerful device to avoid a muted flavour and insufficient vapour. Finding your 'sweet spot' is key to an enjoyable vaping experience.
Finding the Ideal VG/PG Ratio for You and Your Vaping Device
To find the ideal VG/PG ratio for you and your vaping device, you must first understand the properties of VG and PG and how they affect your e-liquid and vaping experience.
To find the right VG/PG balance for you, consider factors like:
1. Your vaping device: Higher VG for sub-ohm devices; higher PG for standard vaping devices.
2. Vapor production: Higher VG produces more vapour; higher PG produces less.
3. Throat hit: Higher PG gives a stronger throat hit; higher VG has a smoother hit.
4. Wicking: Higher PG wicks better; higher VG may not wick well in some devices.
By analysing how these factors affect your vaping experience and personal preferences, you can determine if you prefer an e-liquid with a VG-dominant, balanced or PG-dominant ratio. The ideal ratio for most vapers is around 70% VG and 30% PG, but your ideal ratio depends entirely on you and your device's capabilities. Experiment with different ratios to find what you enjoy most.
Conclusion
In summary, understanding the differences between VG and PG and how they interact with your vaping device is key to enhancing your vaping experience. Whether you prefer more vapour production or a stronger throat hit, you now have the knowledge to choose an e-liquid with the right VG/PG ratio for your needs. As a vaper, you owe it to yourself to explore how these two common e-liquid bases can transform your vaping sessions. Do some experimenting with different ratios and flavours to find your sweet spot. Vaping should be an enjoyable journey of discovery, not a frustrating guessing game. Armed with the information from this guide, you are now well on your way to vaping bliss.