When you’re browsing through e-liquids, you’ll notice numbers like 50/50 or 70/30 plastered across bottles. These aren’t random figures – they represent the VG/PG ratio, and they’re absolutely fundamental to your vaping experience. For UK vapers, understanding this ratio is the difference between a satisfying vape and a disappointing one.
The VG/PG ratio determines three critical aspects of your vape:
- Smoothness – How gentle or harsh the vapour feels on your throat
- Throat hit – That satisfying sensation at the back of your throat (similar to smoking)
- Cloud production – The volume and density of vapour you exhale
Understanding VG and PG
VG (Vegetable Glycerin) and PG (Propylene Glycol) are the two base liquids in every e-liquid you’ll encounter. They work together, but they pull in opposite directions:
- VG delivers thick, smooth clouds with a subtle sweetness.
- PG carries flavour more effectively and provides that punchy throat hit many ex-smokers crave.
Why Your Ideal Ratio May Differ from Others
Here’s what makes this choice so personal: a ratio that works brilliantly for your mate might leave you coughing or underwhelmed. Your device type, nicotine strength, and vaping style all play a role in determining your ideal VG/PG ratio.
Finding Your Perfect VG/PG Ratio Based on Your Vaping Style
Here are some examples of how different vaping styles may influence your choice of VG/PG ratio:
Mouth-to-Lung Vaping with Pod Systems
If you’re using a pod system for mouth-to-lung vaping, a 50VG/50PG ratio like that found in the Ohm Boy 60ml Longfills might be perfect for you. This balance offers a pure and flavourful vaping experience.
Higher Nicotine Content for Smokers and Dual Users
Alternatively, if you’re looking for something with higher nicotine content, the 20mg Nic Salt 10ml by Nic Nic also comes in a similar 50VG/50PG ratio which is formulated for quicker absorption – ideal for smokers and dual users.
Cloud Chasing with Sub-Ohm Tanks
In contrast, if you are a cloud chaser using a sub-ohm tank, you might prefer an e-liquid with a higher VG content like the 20mg Just Nic It Nic Salt On Ice, which has an 80VG/20PG ratio that transforms your vaping routine by providing smoother hits.
The Importance of Understanding VG/PG Ratios
The key takeaway? You need to understand how different VG/PG ratios impact your vaping experience before you can optimise it. The wrong ratio can lead to burnt coils, weak flavour, or an unsatisfying throat hit – none of which you want.
In this guide, we’ll break down exactly how VG and PG work, explore the most common ratios available in the UK market such as those found in our 0mg Imp Jar X Zeus Bolt 50ml Shortfill or 20mg Aisu By Zap! Juice 10ml Nic Salts, and help you.
Understanding VG and PG: The Basics
Before you can make an informed decision about your ideal VG/PG ratio, you need to understand what these two e-liquid bases actually are and how they function in your vape juice.
What Is Vegetable Glycerin (VG)?
Vegetable Glycerin is a thick, sweet-tasting liquid derived from plant oils – typically from palm, soy, or coconut sources. This natural compound has been used for decades in food production, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical products. When you look at a bottle of e-liquid, VG is the component responsible for that syrupy consistency.
VG’s molecular structure makes it particularly effective at producing dense, voluminous clouds. The viscosity of this substance means it evaporates more slowly than its counterpart, creating those satisfying plumes of vapour that cloud chasers seek. The slightly sweet taste of VG can also add a subtle smoothness to your vaping experience, though it’s less effective at carrying complex flavour profiles compared to PG.
What Is Propylene Glycol (PG)?
Propylene Glycol is a synthetic organic compound that’s considerably thinner than VG. You’ve likely encountered PG in numerous everyday products without realising it – this versatile liquid appears in food additives, medications, beauty products, and even theatrical fog machines.
In the vaping world, PG serves as an excellent flavour carrier. Its thinner consistency allows it to wick more efficiently through your coils, and its neutral taste doesn’t interfere with the e-liquid flavours you’re trying to enjoy. PG is also responsible for delivering that distinctive throat hit – the sensation you feel at the back of your throat when you inhale, which many ex-smokers find satisfying as it mimics the feeling of smoking traditional cigarettes.
The Role of E-Liquid Bases in Your Vape
Both Vegetable Glycerin and Propylene Glycol function as the foundation of your e-liquid, but they each bring different properties to the mix:
1. Flavour Delivery
PG excels at dissolving and carrying flavour concentrates, which is why higher PG ratios often deliver more intense, sharper flavour notes. VG, whilst adding a subtle sweetness, tends to mute flavours slightly due to its thickness.
For instance, if you’re looking for a strong flavour profile in your vape juice, you might want to consider something like the 18mg One E-Liquids Cool Nic Shot which has a 50VG/50PG ratio.
2. Viscosity and Wicking
The thickness of your e-liquid directly impacts how well it saturates your coil’s wicking material. PG’s thin consistency flows easily into cotton wicks, making it suitable for devices with smaller wicking ports. VG’s syrupy nature requires more time to saturate wicks properly, which is why high VG juices work best in devices designed to handle thicker liquids.
A good example of such a product would be the Chew King 100ml Shortfill which has a 70VG/30PG ratio and is designed for cloud production.
3. Vapour Production
VG is the cloud producer. When heated, it creates significantly more vapour than PG, which is why you’ll find high VG ratios in e-liquids marketed towards cloud enthusiasts and sub-ohm vapers who prioritise vapour production over flavour intensity.
How VG/PG Ratio Influences Vaping Experience
The ratio between VG and PG in your e-liquid acts as the foundation for your entire vaping experience. Every adjustment to this balance creates a ripple effect across multiple aspects of your vape, from the sensation in your throat to the density of clouds you exhale.
Throat Hit Intensity
Propylene Glycol drives throat hit intensity more than any other component in your e-liquid. When you increase PG content, you’ll notice a sharper, more pronounced sensation at the back of your throat – similar to the feeling many ex-smokers remember from traditional cigarettes. A 50/50 ratio delivers a moderate throat hit that satisfies most mouth-to-lung vapers, whilst ratios favouring PG (like 60PG/40VG) create an even stronger sensation.
Vegetable Glycerin, conversely, produces a smoother, gentler experience. High VG ratios (70VG/30PG and above) significantly reduce throat hit intensity, making each inhale feel softer and less aggressive. You might find this appealing if you prefer a mellow vaping experience or if you’re sensitive to the harshness that PG can create.
Vapour Production
VG content directly correlates with cloud size and density. The thicker consistency of Vegetable Glycerin generates substantially more vapour when heated. If you’re chasing massive clouds, ratios of 70VG/30PG or higher become essential. Sub-ohm vapers often select 80VG/20PG or even max VG blends specifically for this reason – the visual spectacle of dense, billowing clouds forms a core part of their vaping enjoyment.
PG-heavy liquids produce noticeably less vapour. A 50/50 blend creates moderate clouds suitable for discreet vaping, whilst higher PG ratios generate even smaller amounts of vapour. This characteristic makes PG-dominant e-liquids ideal for situations where you don’t want to draw attention or when you’re vaping in public spaces.
Flavour Delivery
Propylene Glycol excels at carrying flavour compounds. Its thinner consistency allows it to absorb and distribute flavour concentrates more effectively than VG. E-liquids with higher PG content typically deliver sharper, more defined flavour profiles. You’ll taste individual notes more distinctly – the citrus in your lemon tart flavour or the tobacco undertones in your preferred blend become more pronounced.
VG naturally possesses a subtle sweetness that can influence flavour perception. Whilst it doesn’t carry flavour as efficiently as PG, this inherent sweetness can enhance dessert and fruit flavours. High VG ratios may slightly mute complex flavour profiles, but many vapers find the trade-off worthwhile for the smoothness and cloud production they gain.
Smoothness in Vaping
The concept of smoothness encompasses the entire sensory experience from inhale to exhale. High VG ratios create what most vapers describe as a “smooth” vape – the vapour feels thick, almost creamy, as it travels through your mouth and throat. There’s minimal irritation, and the exhale feels substantial yet gentle.
Higher PG content introduces more “bite” to your vape.
Common VG/PG Ratios and Their Effects on Smoothness, Throat Hit, and Clouds
Let me walk you through the most popular VG/PG ratios you’ll encounter in the UK vaping market and what you can expect from each one.
50/50 VG PG Ratio: The Balanced All-Rounder
The 50/50 VG PG ratio represents the middle ground in e-liquid formulations. This balanced blend delivers a moderate throat hit that satisfies former smokers whilst producing respectable vapour clouds.
Key characteristics of 50/50 blends:
- Throat hit: Pronounced and satisfying, making it ideal if you’re transitioning from cigarettes
- Smoothness: Moderate – you’ll feel the hit without it being harsh
- Vapour production: Decent clouds, though not massive
- Flavour intensity: Excellent flavour clarity and sharpness
- Device compatibility: Works brilliantly in mouth-to-lung (MTL) devices, pod systems, and starter kits
You’ll find this ratio particularly effective if you’re using nicotine salts or higher nicotine strengths like this 20mg Aroma King Nic Salt (12mg-20mg). The PG content carries the nicotine efficiently whilst maintaining a thin enough consistency for smaller coils and restricted airflow devices. I’ve found that 50/50 blends rarely cause dry hits in MTL tanks, making them reliable for everyday vaping.
Best for: Ex-smokers, MTL vapers, pod system users, and anyone prioritising throat hit and flavour over cloud production.
70VG 30PG Vape Juice: The Popular Middle Ground
The 70VG 30PG vape juice ratio has become the go-to choice for many UK vapers, striking an impressive balance between cloud production and flavour delivery.
What to expect from 70/30 blends:
- Throat hit: Gentler than 50/50 but still present
- Smoothness: Noticeably smoother inhale and exhale
- Vapour production: Substantially larger clouds compared to 50/50
- Flavour intensity: Strong flavour profile, though slightly muted compared to higher PG ratios
- Device compatibility: Requires sub-ohm tanks or devices with adequate wicking capabilities
This ratio works exceptionally well with lower nicotine strengths (3mg-6mg) because the increased VG content provides a fuller, more satisfying vape without needing a strong throat hit. You’ll notice the vapour feels denser and more substantial in your mouth. The thicker consistency means you need a device with proper wicking – cotton needs time to absorb the e-liquid between puffs.
I’ve used 70/30 blends extensively in both restricted direct-lung (RDL) and full direct-lung setups. The versatility makes it suitable for vapers who want decent clouds without sacrificing too much flavour definition.
Best for: Direct-lung vapers, cloud enthusiasts who still value flavour, sub-ohm tank users, and vapers using 3mg-6mg nicotine.
High VG Juice Clouds: 80VG/20PG and Beyond
When you move into ratios of 80VG.
Device Compatibility with Different VG/PG Ratios
Your vaping device plays a critical role in determining which VG/PG ratio will work best for you. Not all devices handle e-liquids the same way, and using the wrong ratio can lead to disappointing performance, burnt coils, or even damage to your device.
Sub-Ohm Vaping Devices Compatibility with High VG Juice
Sub-ohm devices are specifically engineered to work with high VG e-liquids. These powerful devices feature coils with a resistance below 1.0 ohm and larger wicking ports that can efficiently absorb thicker liquids. When you’re using a sub-ohm tank or mod, you’ll want to stick with ratios of 70VG/30PG or higher, such as the Flavour Treats By Ohm Boy 100ml Shortfill 0mg (70VG/30PG).
The design of sub-ohm devices addresses the viscosity challenge that high VG liquids present:
- Large wicking channels allow the thick VG to flow freely to the coil
- Higher wattage capabilities generate enough heat to vapourise the denser liquid effectively
- Enhanced airflow systems accommodate the massive vapour production that high VG creates
If you attempt to use high VG juice in a device not designed for it, you’ll experience dry hits. The liquid simply can’t reach the coil fast enough, causing the cotton to burn. This ruins your coil prematurely and creates an unpleasant burnt taste that lingers.
Pod Systems Compatibility with High PG Liquids
Pod systems and mouth-to-lung (MTL) devices perform optimally with higher PG ratios. These compact devices typically use coils with higher resistance (above 1.0 ohm) and smaller wicking ports. A 50/50 ratio is the sweet spot for most pod systems, though some can handle up to 60VG/40PG.
The restricted design of pod systems makes them ideal for PG-dominant liquids:
- Smaller wicking ports work perfectly with thinner, less viscous liquids
- Lower power output suits the faster-wicking properties of PG
- Tighter airflow complements the throat hit that PG provides
Attempting to use 70VG/30PG or higher VG ratios in a standard pod system creates several problems. The thick liquid struggles to saturate the small wick efficiently, leading to dry hits and burnt pods. You’ll also notice reduced flavour and inconsistent vapour production.
Matching Your Device to Your Preferred Ratio
Your device choice should align with your VG/PG preference, not the other way around. If you’ve discovered that you prefer high VG liquids for their smoothness and cloud production, you need a device capable of handling that viscosity. Conversely, if you enjoy the throat hit and flavour intensity of higher PG ratios, a pod system or MTL tank will serve you better.
Consider these device categories and their ideal ratios:
- Disposable vapes: Typically pre-filled with 50/50 or 60VG/40PG ratios
- Basic pod systems: Work best with 50/50 to 60VG/40PG
- Advanced pod systems or MTL tanks: Can accommodate various ratios but may favour PG for optimal performance
Choosing Your Ideal VG/PG Ratio Based on Personal Preferences and Vaping Style
Your perfect VG/PG ratio isn’t about following trends or copying what other vapers use. It’s about understanding what you want from your vaping experience and matching that to the right liquid composition. Personal vape preferences UK vapers have vary dramatically, and what works brilliantly for your mate might leave you disappointed.
Identifying Your Primary Vaping Goals
Before you can select the right ratio, you need to ask yourself what matters most in your vaping sessions. Are you chasing those massive, Instagram-worthy clouds that fill a room? Or do you crave that satisfying throat hit that mimics the sensation of smoking? Perhaps you’re somewhere in between, seeking a balanced experience that doesn’t lean too heavily in either direction.
Cloud chasers will naturally gravitate towards high VG ratios. If you’re the type who measures success by the size and density of your vapour clouds, you’ll want to look at 70VG/30PG as your starting point, with many dedicated cloud enthusiasts pushing towards 80VG/20PG or even higher. The thicker consistency of VG produces substantially more vapour, especially when paired with the right sub-ohm setup using high-quality replacement coils like the 0.6Ω or 1.0Ω options from Airscream.
Throat hit enthusiasts need to approach their ratio selection differently. If you’re a recent ex-smoker or someone who genuinely enjoys that sharp sensation at the back of your throat, higher PG ratios deliver exactly that. A 50/50 split provides a noticeable throat hit, whilst 40VG/60PG or 30VG/70PG ratios intensify this sensation even further. The throat hit from PG closely replicates the feeling many smokers remember, making it particularly valuable for those in the early stages of their vaping journey.
Nicotine Strength and Its Relationship to VG/PG Choice
Your nicotine strength plays a significant role in determining which ratio suits you best. Higher nicotine concentrations naturally provide a stronger throat hit, which means you might not need as much PG to achieve the sensation you’re looking for.
If you vape at 12mg or 18mg nicotine strength, you’re already getting a substantial throat hit from the nicotine itself. Pairing this with a high PG ratio could result in an uncomfortably harsh experience. Many vapers at these strengths find 50/50 ratios perfectly adequate, with the nicotine and PG combining to deliver satisfying throat sensation without becoming overwhelming.
Lower nicotine vapers (3mg or 6mg) have more flexibility. You can opt for higher VG ratios to maximise cloud production whilst still receiving enough throat hit from the nicotine content. Alternatively, if you want more throat sensation at lower nicotine levels, increasing the PG proportion compensates for the reduced nicotine impact.
Flavor Intensity Considerations
Your taste preferences influence your ideal ratio more than you might expect. PG carries flavour more effectively than VG, meaning higher PG ratios deliver more pronounced, sharper flavour profiles. If you’re someone who wants to taste every nuance of your e-liquid, particularly complex flavours with multiple notes, a 50/50 ratio or even slightly higher PG content brings those flavours to life.
High VG liquids produce a slightly muted flavour experience. The vapour is smoother and sweeter due to VG’s natural sweetness, but the flavour intensity decreases compared
Practical Tips for Experimenting with Different VG/PG Ratios Safely
Trying vape juice blends UK vapers have available requires a methodical approach to protect both your device and your wallet. You don’t want to damage expensive coils or compromise your vaping experience through hasty experimentation.
Start with Pre-Mixed Ratios Before DIY
If you’re new to exploring different VG/PG combinations, purchasing commercially prepared e-liquids in various ratios gives you a risk-free way to understand your preferences. For instance, you can sample options like the 10mg One E-Liquids Flavoured Nic Salts 10ml (50VG/50PG) from reputable suppliers without the complexity of mixing your own. This approach lets you identify which ratios work best with your device and taste preferences before investing in DIY supplies.
Gradual Ratio Adjustments Protect Your Coils
When you do decide to mix your own e-liquids or switch between different ratios, make changes incrementally. Jumping from a 50/50 blend straight to an 80/20 high VG mix can shock your coil and lead to premature failure. Instead:
- Move in 10% increments (50/50 to 60/40, then 70/30)
- Allow your coil to saturate properly with each new ratio for at least 10-15 minutes
- Monitor for any signs of dry hits or gurgling
- Keep notes on how each ratio performs with your specific device
This gradual approach helps you pinpoint exactly where problems arise, rather than wondering why a dramatic change didn’t work.
Adjusting Vape Settings for Different Ratios
Your device settings need to match the viscosity of your e-liquid. High VG juices require different power levels and airflow configurations compared to high PG blends. When trying vape juice blends UK suppliers offer in varying ratios, you’ll need to:
For Higher VG Ratios (70VG/30PG and above):
- Increase your wattage by 5-10W to properly vaporise the thicker liquid
- Open your airflow to accommodate larger vapour production
- Use coils rated for higher wattages (typically 0.5Ω or lower)
- Prime your coils more thoroughly before first use
For Higher PG Ratios (50/50 and below):
- Reduce wattage to prevent harsh hits
- Adjust airflow to a more restricted setting
- Consider coils with higher resistance (1.0Ω or above)
- Expect faster e-liquid consumption due to thinner viscosity
Monitor Your Coil Performance
Different VG/PG ratios affect coil lifespan in distinct ways. High VG e-liquids create more residue buildup, whilst high PG liquids can be harsher on cotton wicking. You should:
- Track how long each coil lasts with different ratios
- Watch for changes in flavour quality (a sign of coil degradation)
- Check for visible gunk buildup on your coil more frequently when using high VG
- Replace coils at the first sign of burnt taste rather than pushing them
Temperature and Storage Consider
Conclusion
Finding your perfect VG/PG ratio isn’t about following rigid rules – it’s about discovering what works for your unique vaping style and preferences. Throughout this guide, we’ve explored how different ratios impact smoothness, throat hit, and cloud production, but the real learning happens when you start experimenting yourself.
The journey to optimising your vaping experience requires patience and curiosity. You might start with a 50/50 blend and discover you crave bigger clouds, leading you towards 70VG/30PG. Or perhaps you’ll find that high VG ratios feel too smooth, and you miss that satisfying throat hit that only higher PG content can deliver. Both paths are valid.
Remember these key considerations as you explore:
- Your device capabilities matter – don’t force high VG liquids through devices designed for thinner e-liquids
- Start with popular ratios (50/50 or 70VG/30PG) before venturing into extreme blends
- Give each ratio a fair trial period of at least a few days
- Pay attention to how your coils respond to different viscosities
- Keep notes on what you like and dislike about each ratio
The UK vaping market offers incredible variety, and retailers like TopVapes stock e-liquids across the full spectrum of VG/PG ratios. This accessibility means you’re never locked into one choice – you can adapt your selection as your preferences evolve.
Your ideal balance between throat hit and clouds exists somewhere on the VG/PG spectrum. Some vapers find their sweet spot immediately, whilst others enjoy trying different ratios depending on their mood or setting. There’s no pressure to commit to a single ratio forever.
What VG/PG ratio is best for you? The answer lies in your willingness to experiment, observe, and adjust. Trust your own experience over anyone else’s recommendations. Your throat hit preferences, cloud chasing ambitions, and device setup create a unique combination that only you can evaluate properly.
Start your exploration today. Pick up a couple of e-liquids with different ratios, give them honest trials, and pay attention to what your body and taste buds tell you. The best vg pg ratio summary UK vapers can offer is this: the perfect ratio is the one that makes you look forward to every vape session.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
What is the VG/PG ratio and why is it important for UK vapers?
The VG/PG ratio refers to the proportion of Vegetable Glycerin (VG) and Propylene Glycol (PG) in e-liquids. It is crucial for UK vapers because it directly affects vaping smoothness, throat hit, and cloud production, helping users optimise their vaping experience according to personal preferences.
How do VG and PG individually influence the vaping experience?
VG, derived from plant oils, provides thicker vapor clouds and a smoother vape with less throat hit, while PG offers stronger throat hit and better flavour delivery but produces less vapour. Both serve as base liquids in e-liquids, affecting viscosity and overall performance.
Which VG/PG ratios are commonly used and what effects do they have on smoothness, throat hit, and clouds?
Common ratios include 50/50 VG/PG for balanced throat hit and vapour, 70VG/30PG favouring smoother vaping with larger clouds, and high VG (80VG/20PG or higher) which maximises cloud production with minimal throat hit. Each ratio suits different vaping styles and preferences.
How does device compatibility affect the choice of VG/PG ratio?
Device type plays a key role; sub-ohm devices handle high VG juices well due to their capacity for thicker liquids without dry hits, making them ideal for cloud chasers. Pod systems typically perform better with higher PG liquids that are thinner, ensuring optimal coil lifespan and flavour delivery.
What factors should UK vapers consider when choosing their ideal VG/PG ratio?
Vapers should assess personal preferences such as prioritising throat hit strength versus cloud production, flavour intensity desires, and device compatibility. For example, those seeking massive clouds may prefer higher VG ratios, whereas users wanting a stronger throat hit might choose higher PG content.
What practical tips can help safely experiment with different VG/PG ratios?
Start by gradually adjusting the VG or PG proportion in your e-liquid blends within safe limits to avoid device issues. Adjust vape settings accordingly to accommodate changes in liquid viscosity. This approach helps preserve coil lifespan while discovering the optimal balance for smoothness, throat hit, and vapour output.
