VG and PG e-liquids: Everything You Need to Know

If you are new to vaping, you probably don't understand the ingredients used to give you that satisfying nicotine hit, great taste, huge (or lighter) clouds, consistency and more. Today, we are taking a look at VG and PG e-liquids, going in-depth to help you understand how they make your vaping experience even better.

What Are VG and PG?

VG and PG, short for Vegetable Glycerine and Propylene Glycol, are the base ingredients in an e-liquid. They are responsible for carrying the nicotine and flavour in your vape. However, they work differently, so you get a different experience with each.

Vegetable Glycerin

VG is thick and sweet, and just like the name suggests, made from vegetable oils. The syrupy consistency makes it harder to use in some vaping devices, hence why sub-ohm devices are recommended. These tanks can handle the thick liquid, ensuring there is sufficient vapour and flavour. It produces more vapour and thicker, impressive clouds, and is also gentle on the throat, making it ideal for people who are not looking for a strong throat hit.

Propylene Glycol

PG, on the other hand, is thinner, almost like water. This light consistency makes it easier to wick in your vape device, providing stronger throat hits, almost like a cigarette, which can be ideal for people who are just quitting smoking.

It also provides the richest flavours. If you are looking for stronger states, it provides maximum satisfaction. However, the clouds won't be as large and dense as those in VG.

How PG and VG Affect Your Vape

The experience you get from PG and VG is totally different, so whatever you choose comes down to your needs and preferences. For example, if you are looking for a stronger throat hit, PG wins. High PG e-liquids also provide rich flavours, which means you will taste the flavour more clearly.

High VG e-liquids, on the other hand, don't give strong throat hits nor provide rich flavours. This is a more ideal option for people chasing huge clouds. 

So, if you are looking for a more subtle, low-key experience, but with strong and satisfying hits and flavours, or if you just quit smoking but want the same sensation or feeling, PG is for you. If you are a cloud chaser and enjoy the thick, visible vapour clouds, VG is a good option.

Device Compatibility

Your device will also affect your experience, so you want to make sure you are using the correct one for your e-liquid. High VG e-liquids work best in sub-ohm tanks and more advanced devices because they are thick and require strong heating to vaporise properly.

If you are using a high PG eliquid, then there isn't much to worry about the device. You can use most standard vape kits or beginner devices. Because the liquid has a thinner consistency, it works well with vape pens or even pod mods.

VG/PG Ratios

E-liquids usually mix PG and VG in different ratios to satisfy different user needs. These ratios are used to provide a certain balance for the flavour, vapour, and nicotine. 50/50 VG/PG is a common ratio. This simply means the amount of VG and PG in the e-liquid is equal. It provides a balanced flavour and vapour, a mild throat hit, and works well with most devices.

70/30 VG/PG means there is more VG than PG. This e-liquid provides smoother and thicker clouds, has a slightly sweet taste, offers a lower throat hit, and works well with sub-ohm devices. Similarly, 80/20 or 90/10 VG/PG means a higher VG content. Clouds are very smooth and very large, the flavour and throat hit are mild, and it needs high-power devices.

60/40 or 40/60 VG/PG are less common but offer a mix for specific preferences.

Nicotine vs. VG and PG

The nicotine in your e-liquids will also affect the VG/PG ratio. Generally, higher nicotine often comes in higher PG mixes because PG carries nicotine better and provides a stronger throat hit. On the other hand, lower nicotine is often paired with high VG mixes for bigger clouds and without a harsh throat hit.

If you are working to quit cigarettes or just want to reduce your nicotine intake, high VG e-liquids with lower nicotine can make vaping more enjoyable and easier on your throat.

How to Choose the Right VG/PG Ratio

You might be wondering, so what's the best VG/ PG ratio for you? Well, there is really no one-size-fits-all solution. It all comes down to the user’s preferences and goals. Whatever experience you are looking for is what will determine the ratio you choose.

Here are some tips to guide you;

Throat hit and flavour - If you are looking for a strong throat hit and flavour, PG is the best option. For milder throat hits, choose higher VG.

Vapour/ clouds - If you are chasing thicker, bigger clouds, a high VG e-liquid will provide the best of it.

Nicotine level - Adjust the VG/PG ratio depending on the nicotine content in the e-liquid to get your perfect throat hit.

Device type - For the best experience, use the right PG or VG e-liquid with the right device. If you have a more advanced or sub-ohm device, it works best with higher VG e-liquids. If you have a simpler vape, PG e-liquids will provide the best vaping experience.

Are VG and PG Safe?

Both PG and VG are safe ingredients and are even used in many food and cosmetic products. Unless you have an allergy, side effects are rare. VG is usually very safe and rarely causes allergic reactions.

PG is also safe for most people. If you are a new user, you might experience symptoms such as irritation, an itchy throat, or dry lips. To avoid these and other harmful additives, always buy e-liquids and vaping products from trusted brands.

Tips for Beginners

• Start with a 50/50 VG/PG e-liquid if you are unsure. It is easy to handle, provides a more balanced experience, and you don't have to worry about choosing the correct device. It works with most vape kits, including beginner devices.

• As you get used to vaping and get to know how the eliquids, vapes, and vaping as a whole work, experiment with different things. Try out different ratios to see what you like best.

• If you experience side effects and symptoms such as irritation, it might be too much PG. Try a higher VG.

• Always pay attention to the device and the liquid you are using. Some tanks may not work well with very thick liquids, which can impact your overall experience.

Conclusion

VG and PG are major ingredients in vaping. They carry the experience that you have as a user, ensuring your vaping is smooth, pleasant, and consistent. Whether you are looking for a strong throat hit, like that of smoking cigarettes, chasing clouds, or craving the rich flavours, understanding the differences between VG and PG will help you find your perfect balance. It will help you choose the right e-liquid for your taste, device, and vaping style.