What PG/VG ratio should you choose? A simple guide based on your vaping style

What PG/VG ratio should I choose?

Illustration pour comprendre quel taux PG VG choisir selon son type de vape

Choosing the right PG/VG ratio is, above all, about finding the right balance between
flavor, throat hit, vapor, and compatibility with your e-cigarette.
If you're looking for a quick answer, keep this in mind:
A 50/50 mix is the best starting point for most vapers.
It offers a good balance between flavor, throat hit, vapor volume, and ease of use.

On the other hand, it all depends on your equipment and your preferences.
If you prefer a more intense vape with a stronger throat hit and a more precise flavor profile,
a ratio higher in PG will often be more appropriate.
On the other hand, if you prefer a denser, smoother, and rounder vapor,
Instead, we should look at the ratios that are richer in VG.

In this guide, we'll help you understand
Which PG/VG ratio should you choose based on your e-cigarette, your vaping style, and the type of experience you're looking for?.

What PG/VG ratio should you choose based on your profile?

Schéma pour savoir quel ratio PG VG choisir selon son profil de vapoteur

If you're looking for a stronger sensation and more pronounced flavors, opt for a higher PG ratio.
If you want more vapor and a smoother feel, opt for a higher VG ratio.

Let's get right to the point: if you're not sure which ratio to choose yet, start with 50/50.
It's the simplest, most balanced, and most versatile choice.
It is suitable for a very large number of vapers, particularly those who use a pod,
a starter kit or a standard e-cigarette.

If you're looking, above all, for a good balance between flavor, throat hit, and vapor,
The 50/50 split remains the safest option.
It's also the most reassuring ratio if you're just starting out,
because it prevents many compatibility issues.

On the other hand, if you already have a clear idea of what you like, you can narrow it down.

If you want a stronger sensation in your throat and more pronounced flavors,
It is often best to opt for a ratio that is richer in PG.
This type of liquid is generally more fluid, sharper, and more direct.

If, on the other hand, your priority is to produce more steam,
with a softer, more enveloping feel,
so a ratio that is richer in VG will make more sense,
provided that your equipment can handle thicker liquids.

In summary:

  • 50/50: The Best Starting Point
  • More PG: more throat hit, more flavor, smoother vapor
  • More VG: more vapor, smoother taste, richer flavor

The right choice, therefore, depends on two criteria:
what you like to feel and
the equipment you use.

What are PG and VG used for?

Infographie sur la différence entre PG et VG dans un e-liquide

PG enhances flavor, throat hit, and smoothness. VG produces more vapor,
a smoother texture and a thicker consistency.

The PG: flavor, throat hit, and smoothness

The propylene glycol, or PG, is valued for its ability to effectively carry flavors.
It is this that often results in a cleaner, more precise, and more pronounced sensation on the palate.
He is also involved in the hit, that is, the sensation felt in the throat when inhaling.

Another important point: PG makes the liquid more fluid.
This makes it easier for it to pass through the resistance cotton,
which is especially useful for small e-cigarettes or pods.

VG: Vapor, Smoothness, and Texture

The vegetable glycerin, or VG, serves a different purpose.
It produces a more abundant, denser, and more visually striking vapor.
It also feels gentler on the throat.

On the other hand, it makes the liquid more viscous.
This means that an e-liquid with a high VG content requires equipment capable of absorbing it effectively.
On some low-powered devices, a liquid that is too thick may not circulate properly
and result in a less enjoyable vaping experience.

The right ratio is all about balance

We shouldn't view the PG and the VG as two opposing camps,
but rather like two controls that let you customize your vaping experience.

  • The more there are PG, the more the vapor tends to have a precise flavor, a distinct throat hit, and a smooth draw.
  • The more there are VG, the more it tends to produce a generous amount of vapor, be smooth on the throat, and have a thicker texture.

In other words, choosing your PG/VG ratio comes down to finding the best balance between your preferences and your equipment.

What PG/VG ratio should you choose for your e-cigarette?

Quel PG VG choisir pour pod, clearomiseur polyvalent et subohm

Pod or small e-cigarette: should it be 70/30 or higher in PG?
Versatile clearomizer: 50/50.
Sub-ohm equipment: preferably a 30/70 mix or one with a higher VG content.

This is often where the right choice comes down to.
The perfect aspect ratio for one device may be a poor choice for another.

For a pod or a small e-cigarette

If you're using a pod, a small e-cigarette or a device with a tight draw,
A fairly runny liquid is often more suitable.
In this case, a ratio such as the 70/30, or one that is higher in PG, may be appropriate.

However, to keep things simple and avoid mistakes when getting started,
the 50/50 is often the safest choice.
It offers excellent versatility for a wide range of small equipment.

For a versatile clearomizer

With a standard clearomizer used on a daily basis, the 50/50 is still the best foundation.
This is the ideal ratio if you don't want to make things complicated for yourself
and you're looking for a good balance between flavor, comfort, and vapor.

For sub-ohm devices or those designed for big clouds

If you're using a more powerful setup, whether for direct inhalation or sub-ohm vaping,
You can opt for blends with a higher concentration of VG, such as 30/70.
These e-liquids are better suited for a light, airy vape that produces more vapor and is often smoother.

Which ratio should you choose based on your vaping preferences?

Once you know what your equipment can handle,
You can adjust it based on how it feels.

Above all, you want to really savor the flavors

If your priority is the flavor profile,
Choose a ratio that contains enough PG.
This is generally what results in a cleaner, more distinct, and more expressive vapor.

Do you like the real feeling of deep throat?

The hit It doesn't depend solely on nicotine.
The PG/VG ratio also plays a role.
The higher the PG content, the more pronounced the sensation may be.

You're mainly looking for vapor

If you like big clouds, a dense visual experience, and a smoother draw,
You should aim for a ratio that is richer in VG.

You're just starting out and want to avoid mistakes

The most effective advice is still the simplest:
Start with a 50/50 mix.
Next, if you want a stronger hit and greater accuracy, try using more PG.
If you want a smoother taste and more vapor, try using more VG.

Can the ratio change the perception of a flavor?

Yes, slightly. It doesn't change the flavor profile,
but it can change the way you perceive it.

  • A ratio with a higher PG content can result in a more direct and immediate effect.
  • A blend with a higher VG content can offer a rounder, smoother, and sometimes more enveloping sensation.

Comparison Table of Key PG/VG Ratios

PG/VG RatioTypical ProfileFlavorHitSteamCompatibility
70/30A More Intense VapeVery presentTaggedModerateSmall equipment, tight production schedule
50/50Versatile VapeBalancedMediumAverageVery wide
30/70A smooth, rich vapeMore roundedSweetHighRequired Compatible Hardware
20/80Heavy steamSofterLowVery highAdvanced Equipment
100% VGSpecific UseVery softVery lowMaximumLimited compatibility

Tip: Click on the "Compatibility" column to see an example of hardware suitable for each PG/VG ratio.

Mistakes to Avoid

Schéma fuite et dry hit selon un e-liquide trop fluide ou trop épais

E-liquid that is too thin can cause leaks. E-liquid that is too thick, or not suitable for the device,
may cause dry mouth.

Focusing solely on steam

Trying to produce more vapor without considering your equipment is a classic mistake.
Many vapers opt for e-liquids with a very high VG content, even though their e-cigarettes aren't designed for that.

Forget About Resistance

Resistance must always be taken into account.
The thicker the liquid, the more important it is for the cotton to absorb it properly.

Confusing PG/VG with nicotine

The PG/VG ratio affects texture, mouthfeel, and compatibility.
The nicotine level, on the other hand, affects the nicotine concentration.
So these are two different parameters.

Searching for the “best universal ratio”

There is no one-size-fits-all ratio.
There is only one ratio that is best suited to your needs, your equipment, and your personal preference.

Our simple tip for choosing the right ratio for your first one

If you want a simple and effective method, do the following:
Start with a 50/50 e-liquid

Try it out for a few days with your usual equipment.
Then ask yourself three questions:

  • Do I want more hits?
  • No more steam?
  • Or is this liquid completely compatible with my equipment?

Next:

  • Go up to PG if you want a stronger vape
  • Go up to VG If you want a smoother, denser vapor

The most important thing is to Change only one setting at a time.
That's the best way to figure out what's really right for you.

FAQ

50/50 or 70/30: Which one should you choose?

The 50/50 is more balanced and versatile. The 70/30 is a better choice if you're looking for a stronger hit, smoother performance, and a more direct feel.

What is the ideal PG/VG ratio for a pod?

In most cases, a 50/50 mix is the safest choice. However, for some smaller devices, a liquid with a higher PG content may also be appropriate.

What PG/VG ratio produces a lot of vapor?

You should generally choose a mixture with a higher VG content, provided your device is compatible with thick e-liquids.

Does a VG-rich e-liquid have less flavor?

Not necessarily less flavorful, but often perceived as milder and less pronounced than a PG-rich e-liquid.

Does the PG/VG ratio affect the nicotine content?

No. The PG/VG ratio and the nicotine strength are two different things.

What PG/VG ratio should you choose when you're just starting out?

In most cases, a 50/50 mix is still the best place to start. It offers a good balance of flavor, throat hit, vapor production, and compatibility with a wide range of devices.

Can a liquid that is too thin cause a leak?

Yes. On a very open coil setup, an e-liquid that’s too thin can cause leaks, clogging, or liquid backflow.

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