E-liquids are the foundation of vaping, offering a diverse range of options to suit every preference. Whether you're new to vaping or looking to explore different options, understanding the various types, strengths, and flavours available will help you make an informed choice for your vaping journey.
What is e-liquid?
E-liquid, also known as vape juice or vape liquid, is the liquid used in vape devices that gets heated and turned into vapour. It is often flavoured, and usually contains nicotine, though nicotine-free options are available. The liquid is stored in your device's tank or pod and heated by a coil to create the vapour you inhale.
What is vape juice made of?
Though it’s commonly used, most people aren’t aware of what's in vape liquid. E-liquids contain four main ingredients: vegetable glycerin (VG), propylene glycol (PG), food-grade flavourings, and nicotine (optional). VG and PG form the base, creating the vapour and carrying the flavour. The ratio of these ingredients affects the vaping experience, from throat hit to cloud production.
Is e-liquid safe?
E-liquids sold by reputable UK retailers must comply with TPD regulations, ensuring they meet strict safety standards. All products at Vapourcore are TPD-compliant and purchased from well-known suppliers. While vaping is not risk-free, Public Health England has stated that vaping is 95% less harmful than smoking traditional cigarettes.
Types of e-liquids
What is nic salt e-liquid?
Nic salt e-liquid contains nicotine salts, a form of nicotine naturally found in tobacco leaves. Unlike freebase nicotine, nic salts have a lower pH, making the throat hit much smoother even at higher strengths, often 20–50mg/ml. They are absorbed more quickly by the body, delivering faster nicotine satisfaction. Nic salts are made by combining freebase nicotine with acids, which stabilises it and reduces harshness. They work best in lower-powered devices like pod systems and are popular with beginners and ex-smokers who need higher nicotine levels without discomfort. Read our full guide to nicotine salts for more information.
What is freebase e-liquid?
Freebase nicotine is the purest form of nicotine used in e-liquids, created by removing protons from the nicotine molecule. This form has been used in nicotine replacement products for decades. Freebase e-liquid provides a stronger throat hit compared to nic salts, making it popular with experienced vapers. It's commonly found in shortfills and traditional 10ml bottles, and works well in sub-ohm devices.
What is shortfill e-liquid?
Shortfill e-liquid comes in larger bottles (typically 50ml or 100ml) that are intentionally underfilled to leave room for a nicotine shot. These bottles contain 0mg nicotine as sold, allowing you to add your own nic shot to reach your desired strength. Shortfills offer better value for money and are popular with sub-ohm vapers who prefer high-VG liquids for cloud production.
What is a nic shot?
A nic shot is a small 10ml bottle of unflavoured nicotine liquid that you add to shortfill e-liquids to reach your desired nicotine strength. Nic shots allow manufacturers to sell larger bottles legally, whilst giving you control over nicotine levels. Most nic shots are 18mg strength and come in various VG/PG ratios. Adding one 10ml nic shot to a 50ml shortfill creates 60ml of 3mg e-liquid.
What is VG in vape?
VG in vape refers to vegetable glycerin, a thick, sweet-tasting liquid derived from vegetable oils. VG is responsible for producing vapour clouds and adds a subtle sweetness to e-liquids. High-VG liquids (70% or above) create larger clouds and smoother hits, making them ideal for sub-ohm vaping. However, thicker VG liquids require more powerful devices and may not work well in smaller pod systems.
What is PG vape juice?
PG vape juice contains propylene glycol, a thinner liquid that carries flavour effectively and provides the throat hit many ex-smokers seek. While VG creates clouds, PG delivers flavour intensity and that satisfying throat sensation. High-PG liquids work better in lower-powered devices and are absorbed more easily by coils and wicks.
What is 50/50 vape juice?
50/50 vape juice contains equal parts VG and PG, offering a balanced vaping experience. This ratio provides good flavour, moderate vapour production, and works in most devices, especially pod systems and starter kits. The balanced mix suits mouth-to-lung vaping perfectly, making it the recommended choice for beginners and those using pre-filled pod systems or simple vape pens.
What is CBD vape juice?
CBD vape juice contains cannabidiol extracted from hemp plants instead of nicotine. CBD is a non-psychoactive compound that won't get you high, unlike THC. These e-liquids are used by people seeking the potential wellness benefits of CBD in a convenient vaping format. CBD e-liquids come in various strengths and flavours, though they remain a niche product in the UK market.
What vape liquid should I use?
Choosing the right e-liquid comes down to your device, nicotine needs, and flavour preferences. The right match makes vaping smoother, more satisfying, and helps you get the most from your kit. Things to consider include:
- Device type: Pod systems work best with 50/50 VG/PG liquids or nic salts, while sub-ohm kits need high-VG shortfills for bigger clouds and smoother draws.
- Nicotine strength: Match to your smoking history. Heavy smokers often start with 10–20mg nic salts, lighter smokers with 3–6mg.
- Flavour preference: Try flavours you enjoy, from tobacco and menthol to fruity blends.
- Throat hit: Higher PG gives a stronger throat hit, VG gives a smoother inhale.
- Cloud production: Higher VG liquids produce thicker vapour, lower VG gives less cloud but stronger flavour.
- Nicotine type: Choose what feels most comfortable for your draw and strength needs.
Can you mix vape juice?
Yes, you can mix vape juice from the same brand and similar VG/PG ratios without issues. Many vapers blend flavours to create custom combinations. However, avoid mixing nic salts with freebase nicotine, and ensure you're aware of the resulting nicotine strength. Mixing liquids with vastly different VG/PG ratios can affect performance, so stick to similar compositions for consistent results.
Can you use any e-liquid in any vape pen?
No, not all e-liquids can be used in all devices. Your device type determines which e-liquids work best. Simple vape pens and pod systems need thinner 50/50 liquids or nic salts for proper wicking. Whereas high-powered sub-ohm devices require thicker high-VG liquids to prevent leaking. Using the wrong liquid can cause poor performance, leaking, or burnt coils.
What strength nicotine e-liquid should I use?
E-liquid strength refers to the amount of nicotine in your vape juice, usually measured in milligrams per millilitre (mg/ml). Common strengths range from 0mg (nicotine-free) up to 20mg or more for nic salts. In the UK, the most popular options for smokers switching to vaping are 5mg, 10mg, 15mg and 20mg, depending on habits and device choice.
Pod systems and mouth-to-lung devices work well with higher strengths (10–20mg) because they produce smaller vapour clouds and deliver less nicotine per puff. Sub-ohm kits, which produce large vapour clouds, work better with lower strengths (0–5mg) to avoid a harsh throat hit.
If you’re a heavy smoker, starting with a higher nicotine level can make the switch easier, and you can reduce it gradually as you get used to vaping. Lighter smokers often prefer lower strengths from the start. The key is matching the strength to your device and your smoking habits for a comfortable and satisfying experience.
For more tips, read our guide on how to transition from smoking to vaping.
How long does e-liquid last?
How long an e-liquid lasts varies by vaping frequency and device type. Heavy vapers using powerful devices may finish a bottle in 1-2 days, whilst light users might stretch it to two weeks. Sub-ohm devices consume liquid faster due to higher vapour production and larger coils.
How many puffs in a 10ml e-liquid?
This again depends on your device and puff duration. Generally, a 10ml bottle provides approximately 3,000-4,000 puffs in a standard pod system, typically lasting 3-7 days. This rough estimate helps compare e-liquid value to disposable vapes, which typically offer 600 puffs per device. However, your actual usage will vary based on puff length and frequency.
Does e-liquid expire?
Yes, e-liquid does expire, though it has a relatively long shelf life. Most e-liquids remain good for 1-2 years from the date of manufacture when stored properly. You'll know your vape juice has expired when it darkens significantly, separates, or develops an off smell. Using expired liquid won't harm you, but it may taste unpleasant and deliver less nicotine.
How to store e-liquid
Store e-liquid in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep bottles tightly sealed to prevent oxidation and nicotine degradation. A cupboard or drawer works perfectly. Avoid storing your e-liquid in bathrooms or cars where the temperature fluctuates. Keep all vape juices away from children and pets, preferably in a locked cabinet.
E-liquid flavours
E-liquid flavours span an incredible range, from classic tobacco and menthol to fruits, desserts, drinks, and candy options. Popular choices include strawberry, watermelon, blue razz, and ice-cool menthol blends. Many brands recreate disposable vape flavours in bottled form, like Elf Bar Elfliq, Lost Mary Maryliq, and Bar Juice, allowing you to choose a new one each time you refill. Many vapers rotate between several flavours to prevent taste fatigue. Check out the best e-liquids in 2025 for recommendations on the most popular flavours.
What is the best vape juice?
The best vape juice varies by personal taste and device compatibility. Some of the most popular e-liquids include brands like Riot Squad, Elux Legend nic salts, and Hayati Pro Max. However, quality matters more than popularity. Choose TPD-compliant liquids from reputable retailers, match the liquid to your device, and select nicotine strength based on your needs.
Choosing the right e-liquid makes all the difference to your vaping experience, whether it’s finding the perfect flavour, nicotine strength, or VG/PG balance for your device. Explore our full collection of e-liquids to find options that suit your style and preferences. If you’re new to vaping, our guide for new vapers is a great place to start, with advice on devices, nicotine strengths, and getting the most from your e-liquid.