Standard e-liquids were the vaping market’s main alternative to cigarettes for years. Nicotine salts, or ‘nic salts’, have entered the market in recent years. Vapers and novices are debating which alternative is best for them due to this innovation. In this post, we’ll compare standard vape liquids and nic salts’ composition, effects, and compatibility for different vapers.
Production and Composition
PG, VG, flavourings, and freebase nicotine make up traditional e-liquids. Variable PG/VG ratios alter vaping experience. Ammonia boosts the strength and vaporisation of pure nicotine to create freebase nicotine.
Nic salts, however, are made differently. Start with tobacco leaves’ inherent nicotine salts. These salts are mixed with benzoic acid or another weak acid to make a stable compound. This produces a smoother nicotine delivery method that resembles smoking cigarettes.
Nicotine Absorption and Satisfaction
Nicotine absorption is a major difference between normal e-liquids and nic salts. The lungs and circulation absorb freebase nicotine in regular e-liquids more slowly. Heavy smokers switching to vaping may find this slow absorption less enjoyable.
Nic salts, however, are absorbed faster and better. This rapid absorption mimics cigarette smoking by delivering nicotine faster. Nic salts are a more fulfilling option that helps curb cravings for many users, especially smokers trying to stop.
Smoothness and throat hit
The inhalation feeling distinguishes e-liquids from nic salts. Some traditional e-liquids, especially those with high nicotine levels, have a severe throat hit. A minor burning or tickling in the back of the throat is comparable to what smokers experience with conventional cigarettes.
Nic salts are smoother to vape while having higher nicotine concentrations. Nic salts have a milder throat hit even at high nicotine doses due to their chemical makeup. Nic salts are appealing to those who want increased nicotine levels without harshness due to their smoothness.
Nicotine Concentration and Strength
Traditional e-liquids usually include 3mg, 6mg, or 12mg of nicotine, ranging from 0mg to 24mg. These concentrations are ideal for many vapers, especially those who have quit smoking or prefer lower nicotine levels.
Nic salts are available in significantly larger concentrations, often 20mg/ml to 50mg/ml or more. Nicotine salts are smoother, allowing users to consume more nicotine without feeling harsh. This makes nic salts appealing to heavy smokers and people who crave stronger nicotine levels.
Device Compatibility
Choose between standard e-liquids and nic salts based on your vaping device. Traditional e-liquids work with anything from pod systems to sub-ohm tanks and rebuildable atomisers. These liquids are suitable for MTL and DTL vaping.
Nic salts are best for MTL vaping and lower-powered devices because to their higher nicotine content. Pod systems and other tiny devices are popular for using nic salts because they provide enough power and vapour to gratify without overpowering the user.
Flavour and Variety
Traditional e-liquids have historically had more flavour possibilities. E-liquid makers have developed a wide range of flavours, from simple fruit and dessert to complicated, multi-layered blends. Traditional e-liquids offer more flavour possibilities for flavor-seeking vapers.
Nic salts initially offered fewer flavours but have rapidly extended their assortment. Many firms now make nic salts in many flavours to suit different tastes. Some vapers say nic salts taste weaker than standard e-liquids due to their higher nicotine level.
Consumption and Cost
Vaping costs vary greatly by liquid type. Traditional e-liquids are cheaper per millilitre than nic salts, especially in bulk. Nic salts have stronger nicotine contents, thus users may drink less liquid, compensating the higher initial expense.
Due to its greater nicotine content, nic salts may require less vaping to fulfil cravings, extending device and coil life. This element can reduce long-term costs.
Regulation and Safety
Many countries prohibit nicotine concentration and packaging for regular e-liquids and nic salts. The UK limits nicotine strength for both liquids to 20mg/ml.
Nic salts can make vaping smoother at higher nicotine levels, but users should still watch their nicotine intake. If misused, nic salts can cause nicotine overdose due to fast absorption.
Conclusion
The decision between regular e-liquids and nic salts depends on personal preference and demands. Traditional e-liquids come in several tastes and nicotine levels, making them ideal for many vapers. Nic salts offer a smoother, more cigarette-like feel with higher nicotine concentrations, making them appealing to smokers wanting to quit or those who need more nicotine.
Traditional e-liquids and nic salts will likely continue to help smokers quit as the vaping industry evolves. Vapers can choose the best product for their needs by learning the distinctions between these two possibilities.