Nicolas Paterson
25/04/2025 • 5 min read
One of the most important factors to consider when you’re shopping for a new e-liquid is vape juice nicotine strength.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced vaper, understanding vape nicotine levels can help you make an informed decision that suits your needs so you:
This guide will break down how much nicotine is in a vape, including different nic salt strengths, and answer the question: Is a 2% vape strong for most vapers?
Nicotine levels in e-liquids vary widely. Choosing the right strength depends on your previous smoking habits and personal preference. Most e-liquids contain either freebase nicotine e-liquid or nicotine salts (nic salts), with different absorption rates and effects, making it crucial to know exactly how much nicotine is in your e-liquid and how you can react to it.
Nicotine strength refers to the concentration of nicotine in an e-liquid, typically measured in milligrams per milliliter (mg/mL). This measurement is crucial as it directly influences the vaping experience and how well it satisfies nicotine cravings.
E-liquids are available in a wide range of nicotine strengths, from 0mg for those who prefer nicotine-free options to 2mg for those needing a stronger hit. TPD regulations (the laws that govern nicotine strengths across Europe) limit the max strength to 2 mg/ml.
Here’s a general guide to vape nicotine levels:
| Strength (mg/mL) | Nicotine Percentage (%) | Equivalent to Traditional Cigarettes |
|---|---|---|
| 0 mg | 0% | Nicotine-Free |
| 3 mg | 0.3% | Ultra-Light Cigarettes |
| 6 mg | 0.6% | Light Cigarettes |
| 12 mg | 1.2% | Regular Cigarettes |
| 18 mg | 1.8% | Strong Cigarettes |
| 20 mg | 2% | Strongest Cigarettes You Buy |
| 25-50 mg | 2.5-5.0% | Highest Nicotine Salt Strengths (Available Outside EU/UK Only) |
For an average smoker (someone who smokes less than a pack a day) starting with a nicotine strength of 10mg nic salts or 12mg freebase e-liquid is recommended.
However if you’re a smoker who can easily smoke up to/more than 20 cigs per day, 20mg will likely be the best route to help you quit smoking.
Nicotine salt e-liquids are smoother on the throat, allowing for higher concentrations without the harshness of freebase nicotine. This is why pod systems and disposable vapes often use nic salts for a more satisfying experience. If you’re looking for a milder vape, lower nic salt strength options (10-20 mg) might be better suited for you.
If you’re looking for a smoother vape with a stronger nicotine hit, you can explore FREESMO's range of nic salts to find the perfect strength for you.
Prefer a more traditional throat hit? Browse our selection of freebase e-liquids, too.
The nicotine content in a disposable vape depends on the liquid strength and how often you puff.
A typical disposable vape will usually contain 2% nicotine and will deliver a stronger hit compared to a 3 mg or 6 mg freebase nicotine e-liquid.
The nicotine strength you choose affects the throat hit, flavour, and overall satisfaction. Nic salts provide a smoother hit and quicker nicotine delivery, making them ideal for those who need a stronger dose without the harshness. Freebase nicotine, on the other hand, is better for those who prefer a more traditional throat hit.
E-liquid ratios and nicotine strength are crucial factors to consider when selecting the right e-liquid for your vaping experience. The ratio of propylene glycol (PG) to vegetable glycerin (VG) in an e-liquid can significantly affect the flavour, vapour production, and overall satisfaction.
A higher PG ratio can provide a stronger throat hit and more pronounced flavour, while a higher VG ratio can produce denser vapour and a smoother inhale.
Nicotine strength can range from 0mg to 20mg or more, and it’s crucial to choose a strength that meets your nicotine cravings without being too harsh or too weak. For example, a 50/50 PG/VG ratio e-liquid with 10mg of nicotine may be suitable for a beginner vaper who wants a balanced flavour with ample vapour production. On the other hand, a 70/30 VG/PG ratio e-liquid with 20mg of nicotine may be more suitable for a heavy smoker who wants a stronger nicotine hit and more vapour production.
The flavour of an e-liquid can significantly influence how you perceive its nicotine strength. For instance, menthol or mint flavours tend to enhance the throat hit, making the nicotine feel stronger. On the other hand, sweet or fruity flavours can mask the throat hit, making the nicotine seem milder. When choosing an e-liquid, it’s essential to consider not just the nicotine strength but also the flavour profile, as this combination will determine your overall vaping satisfaction.
Shortfill e-liquids and nicotine shots are popular options for vapers who want to customise their e-liquid experience. Shortfill e-liquids are typically 0mg nicotine e-liquids that come in larger bottles, allowing vapers to add their own nicotine shots to achieve their desired nicotine strength.
Nicotine shots, on the other hand, are concentrated nicotine solutions that can be added to shortfill e-liquids to increase the nicotine strength. These shots come in various strengths, including 3mg, 6mg, and 12mg, and can be mixed with shortfill e-liquids to reach the desired nicotine level.
For example, for a 10mg nicotine strength, you should add a 20mg nicotine shot (10ml) to a 50ml shortfill e-liquid. This allows vapers to customize their e-liquid experience and achieve their desired nicotine strength without having to purchase multiple e-liquids. This flexibility makes shortfill e-liquids and nicotine shots a convenient option for those looking to fine-tune their nicotine intake.
Check out our range of shortfill e-liquids. Add a nicotine shot to your shortfills to create the perfect strength for your vape.
Refillable vape kits play a crucial role in different vaping methods, such as Mouth to Lung (MTL) and Direct To Lung (DTL) vaping. MTL kits are generally considered the best option for new vapers. Understanding the distinctions between MTL and DTL can help you choose the right kit and why nicotine strength is a crucial factor in Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) vaping.
Higher nicotine strengths can provide a more intense throat hit, which many MTL vapers find satisfying. However, if the nicotine strength is too high, it can become harsh and uncomfortable. Nicotine salts are particularly well-suited for MTL vaping because they offer a smoother throat hit and faster nicotine delivery, making them ideal for those who need a quick and satisfying nicotine fix.
Freebase nicotine e-liquids can also be used for MTL vaping, but they may require lower nicotine strengths to avoid harshness.
Nicotine level plays a significant role in determining your vaping style, especially in sub-ohm vaping. Higher nicotine levels can lead to a more intense vaping experience, which might be overwhelming for some users. Lower nicotine levels, on the other hand, provide a milder experience, allowing for longer and more frequent vaping sessions.
The ratio of propylene glycol (PG) to vegetable glycerin (VG) in your e-liquid also impacts your vaping style. A higher PG ratio offers a stronger throat hit, while a higher VG ratio produces more vapour and a smoother inhale. Understanding these factors helps you customise your vaping experience to suit your preferences.
E-liquid safety and disposal are essential considerations for vapers. E-liquids can be hazardous if not handled properly, so it’s crucial to follow proper safety precautions when dealing with them.
When handling e-liquids, it’s important to wear protective gloves and eyewear to prevent skin and eye irritation. E-liquids should be stored in a cool, dry place away from children and pets. Proper disposal of e-liquids is also vital to ensure safety and environmental protection.
To dispose of e-liquids properly, follow these steps:
By following these steps, vapers can ensure that their e-liquids are disposed of safely and responsibly, minimising any potential harm to themselves and the environment.
Choosing the right e-liquid strength is crucial for an enjoyable vaping experience. Whether you prefer a mild vape or a stronger hit, using an e-liquid strength chart can help you find the best option. Start with a level that matches your needs and adjust as necessary to ensure a satisfying vape experience.
