Vape Juice Guide: PG vs. VG Ratios Explained for the Best Experience
Introduction
If you’ve ever wondered why some vape juices produce massive clouds while others deliver a stronger throat hit, the answer lies in their PG (Propylene Glycol) and VG (Vegetable Glycerin) ratios. Understanding these two base liquids is crucial for choosing the right e-liquid for your device and vaping style.
This guide breaks down PG vs. VG, their effects on flavor, vapor production, and compatibility with different vape setups.
What Are PG and VG?
PG and VG are odorless, non-toxic liquids used as the base for all e-juices.
- PG (Propylene Glycol):
- Thinner consistency
- Carries flavor more effectively
- Provides a stronger throat hit (similar to smoking)
- Less vapor production
- Can cause dryness in some users (mild dehydration or sore throat)
- VG (Vegetable Glycerin):
- Thicker, sweeter liquid
- Produces dense vapor clouds
- Smoother inhale (less throat hit)
- Mutes flavors slightly compared to PG
- Better for sub-ohm vaping
Common PG/VG Ratios & Their Uses
| Ratio (PG/VG) | Best For | Device Compatibility |
|---|---|---|
| 50/50 | Strong throat hit, moderate clouds | Pod systems, MTL (Mouth-to-Lung) vaping |
| 60/40 or 70/30 | Balanced flavor & vapor | Beginner-friendly tanks, some pods |
| 30/70 or Max VG | Huge clouds, smooth inhale | Sub-ohm tanks, DTL (Direct-to-Lung) vaping |
| 80/20 or 100% PG | Intense flavor, strong throat hit | Rare—mostly for old-school vapers |
How to Choose the Right Ratio for Your Vape
1. For Pod Systems & MTL Vaping
- Best Ratio: 50/50 or 60/40 PG/VG
- Why? Thinner juice wicks better in small coils, and the higher PG gives a satisfying throat hit.
2. For Sub-Ohm Tanks & Cloud Chasing
- Best Ratio: 70/30 or Max VG
- Why? High VG = thicker clouds, but requires powerful coils to avoid dry hits.
3. For Flavor Chasers
- Best Ratio: 50/50 or 60/40 PG/VG
- Why? PG carries flavor better, making each puff more intense.
4. For Sensitive Throats or Allergies
- Best Ratio: Higher VG (70/30 or Max VG)
- Why? PG can cause irritation for some—VG is smoother.
PG/VG FAQs
❓ Does higher VG mean less nicotine hit?
- Not necessarily, but high-VG juices are often used with lower nicotine strengths (especially in sub-ohm vaping).
❓ Can I mix PG and VG myself?
- Yes, but unless you’re into DIY e-juice, it’s easier to buy pre-mixed ratios.
❓ Why does my high-VG juice taste burnt in my pod?
- High-VG juice is too thick for small coils—switch to 50/50 or prime your coil longer.
Best E-Liquids for Different Ratios
- 50/50 (MTL/Pods): Naked 100 Salt Nic, Dinner Lady Lemon Tart
- 70/30 (Sub-Ohm): Jam Monster, Vapetasia Killer Kustard
- Max VG (Cloud Chasing): Juice Head Freeze, Cloud Nurdz
Final Verdict: Which PG/VG Ratio Should You Use?
- Want a cigarette-like feel? → Higher PG (50/50 or 60/40)
- Prefer massive clouds? → Higher VG (70/30 or Max VG)
- Using a pod system? → Stick to 50/50 or 60/40 to avoid wicking issues.
Experiment to find your perfect balance—every vaper’s preference is different!