VG/PG Ratio
The VG/PG ratio of an e-liquid is a really important factor to consider when making your selection. The level of VG (vegetable gylcerin) and PG (propylene glycol) in your e-liquid will determine the thickness of your e-liquid and, ultimately, the vapour performance your device will have.
VG is an extremely thick liquid that contributes to the smoothness of the vapour and the overall vapour production, while PG is much thinner and is responsible for the throat hit and depth of flavour.
Coils with smaller wicking holes can have a hard time absorbing thick e-liquid because of their reduced surface area. Devices with these kinds of coils often perform better with thinner e-liquid that is higher in PG (e.g., 50VG/50PG or 60VG/40PG), and can risk coil burnout if too thick of an e-liquid is used.
On the other hand, coils with larger wicking holes have a greater surface area, so thin e-liquid can cause these coils to draw in too much e-liquid, leading to leaking and spitback. Because of this, devices with larger coils tend to work better with e-liquids higher in VG (e.g., 70VG/30PG, 80VG/20PG, 90VG/10PG or Max VG).
Nicotine
The concentration of nicotine in your e-liquid can make a huge difference in your overall satisfaction with your e-liquid choice. If the nicotine level in your e-liquid is too low, you’ll risk uncomfortable nicotine withdrawal and cravings. If it’s too high, the nicotine can make you feel lightheaded or nauseous. So it’s a good idea to really consider your e-liquid’s nicotine level before you buy.
See our full nicotine concentration guide here.
Flavour
Finally, the flavour of your e-liquid can make or break your vaping experience. Getting stuck with a flavour that doesn’t taste good to you makes it a lot more difficult to stick to vaping. Fortunately, there are some questions to ask yourself to make the most informed selection for you.
What kinds of food or drinks do you normally enjoy?
E-liquid flavours often correspond with the taste of real food and drinks. So, if you love cinnamon rolls, it’s pretty safe to say that you’d enjoy a cinnamon roll e-liquid. But if you know that you don’t care for blueberry, it’s a good idea to steer clear of e-liquids that list that flavour in its description.
How are you looking to feel?
Some e-liquid flavours can bring out different sensations, so it’s important to think about how you want to feel as well. For example, if you are transitioning from tobacco, you might take comfort in a tobacco-flavoured e-liquid. Similarly, if you’re looking for a cool and refreshing vape, you might enjoy a mint or menthol flavour. Have a self-confessed sweet tooth? Sweet e-liquids might work best for you.
Related: How to Dilute Your E-juice’s Nicotine, What Nicotine Level is Right for Me?, Nicotine Salts vs. Freebase Nicotine, Top 5 Vape Juices