When you first transition into the world of vaping, the sheer amount of jargon can feel overwhelming. You’ll hear people talking about “sub-ohm kits,” “coil resistance,” and “mouth-to-lung hits.” However, the most fundamental piece of the puzzle isn’t the device itself, but what you put inside it. Specifically, the ratio of the two primary base ingredients: Propylene Glycol (PG) and Vegetable Glycerin (VG).
Understanding the balance between these two components is the secret to finding your perfect setup. Whether you are looking for a sharp, satisfying sensation or massive, smooth clouds of vapour, the PG/VG ratio is what dictates that experience. In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what these ingredients are, how they affect your vape, and how to choose the right blend for your specific kit.
What is Propylene Glycol (PG)?
Propylene Glycol, or PG, is a thin, odourless, and tasteless liquid. It has been used for decades in various industries, including food production and medical applications. In the context of e-liquids, PG serves as the primary “flavour carrier.”
Because PG is a thinner consistency than its counterpart, it is absorbed much more quickly by the wicking material inside your coil. This makes it a staple for smaller, lower-powered devices.
Characteristics of High-PG E-Liquids:
- Stronger Throat Hit: PG provides a distinct “kick” at the back of the throat that many people find familiar and satisfying.
- Flavour Clarity: Since PG is tasteless, it doesn’t interfere with the notes of your chosen e-liquid. It delivers a sharp, crisp flavour profile.
- Thinner Consistency: It flows easily, reducing the risk of “dry hits” in smaller pod systems or starter kits.
- Discreet Vapour: It produces less visible vapour, making it ideal for those who prefer not to draw too much attention while out and about.
What is Vegetable Glycerin (VG)?
Vegetable Glycerin is a much thicker, viscous liquid derived from vegetable oils. It has a slightly sweet natural taste and is widely used in cosmetics and as a sweetener in the food industry. In e-liquids, VG is responsible for the “body” of the vapour.
If you’ve ever seen someone producing enormous, dense clouds, they are almost certainly using a high-VG liquid.
Characteristics of High-VG E-Liquids:
- Smoothness: VG is much easier on the throat. Even at higher wattages, it provides a silky, smooth inhale.
- Large Vapour Production: This is the ingredient that creates thick, voluminous clouds.
- Natural Sweetness: It can add a subtle sweetness to dessert or fruit-flavoured liquids.
- Thick Consistency: Because it is syrupy, it takes longer for coils to soak it up, meaning it requires more powerful hardware to vaporise effectively.
Common PG/VG Ratios Explained
Most e-liquids on the market today aren’t 100% one or the other. Instead, they are a blend. The ratio you choose will depend entirely on your personal preference and the device you are using.
1. 50/50 Ratios
This is the “Goldilocks” of e-liquids. It offers a perfect balance of flavour, throat hit, and vapour production. These liquids are incredibly versatile and work beautifully in most pod kits and starter devices. They provide a satisfying experience without being too harsh or too cloudy.
2. High VG (70/30 or 80/20)
Often referred to as “Shortfills,” these are designed for Sub-Ohm vaping. If you have a large device with adjustable wattage and big airflow vents, these are the liquids for you. They focus on smoothness and cloud production, usually featuring lower concentrations of other additives to ensure the experience isn’t too overwhelming at high power.
3. High PG (70/30 in favour of PG)
These are less common now than they were a few years ago but remain the go-to for those using older-style clearomisers or very small, low-wattage pens. They offer a very sharp sensation and are excellent for those who value flavour above all else.
Matching Your E-Liquid to Your Hardware
One of the most common mistakes newcomers make is pairing the wrong liquid with the wrong kit. Using a thick, high-VG liquid in a tiny pod system will likely result in a burnt coil within hours, as the liquid cannot reach the heating element fast enough. Conversely, using a thin PG-heavy liquid in a high-powered tank might lead to leaking.
For Pod Kits and Starter Pens
Stick to 50/50 blends or Nicotine Salts. These liquids are designed to wicks efficiently in smaller coils (usually above 0.8 ohms). They provide a concentrated, punchy flavour that works well with the restricted airflow of these devices.
For Sub-Ohm and Advanced Tanks
Look for 70/30 VG/PG ratios. These devices have larger “wicking ports” (the holes in the side of the coil) that can handle the thick, syrupy nature of VG. Because these kits run at higher temperatures, the smoothness of the VG prevents the hit from becoming uncomfortably harsh.
Sensitivity and Preferences
While most people get along fine with both ingredients, some individuals find that a high percentage of PG can be a little too drying or irritating for their throat. If you find yourself coughing or feeling an itchy sensation even at low power, you might have a slight sensitivity to Propylene Glycol.
In these cases, moving to a higher VG ratio (like 70/30) usually solves the problem instantly. The thicker liquid provides a much more cushioned inhale.
On the flip side, some “flavour purists” avoid high VG because the natural sweetness of the glycerin can slightly “mute” complex savoury or tart notes in certain e-liquids. For these users, a 50/50 blend remains the gold standard for accuracy.
Temperature and Storage
The environment can actually change how your PG/VG ratio behaves. In the cold UK winter, VG becomes even thicker and more like honey. If you leave your kit in a cold car, you might find it struggles to wick properly. Keeping your e-liquid at room temperature ensures the viscosity stays consistent, providing a reliable experience every time you press the button.
Conclusion: Finding Your Balance
There is no “best” ratio—only the ratio that works for you. If you are just starting out, a 50/50 e-liquid is almost always the safest and most rewarding place to begin. It bridges the gap between performance and portability perfectly.
However, as you experiment with different hardware, you might find yourself gravitating toward the clouds and smoothness of a high-VG blend. The beauty of modern vaping is the ability to customise every aspect of your experience to suit your palate.
For those looking to explore a curated range of high-quality blends, from balanced 50/50s to premium high-VG shortfills, E-Cig Clouds offers an extensive selection tailored for every type of device. Finding your signature style starts with the right base; once you understand the PG/VG balance, you’re well on your way to a perfect setup.
