14. Sep. 2023
E-liquids, the heart of the vaping experience, offer a wide range of flavours and cloud production. However, what often goes unnoticed is the integral role played by PG/VG ratios in determining the quality of your vape. In this guide, we’ll delve into the world of PG and VG, understanding their significance, and helping you find the ideal ratio for your vaping journey.
Propylene Glycol (PG) and Vegetable Glycerin (VG) are the two primary components of e-liquids. PG, a synthetic organic compound, is known for its ability to carry flavour effectively and provide a satisfying throat hit. On the other hand, VG, derived from vegetable oils, is responsible for producing thick clouds of vapour and enhancing overall smoothness.
The ratio of PG to VG in your e-liquid holds the key to a personalized vaping experience. If you seek intense flavour and a pronounced throat hit, higher PG ratios are your choice. VG-dominant ratios, on the other hand, deliver denser clouds and a smoother inhale. Balancing these ratios is essential to achieving the perfect harmony between flavour and vapour production.
| PG% | VG% | Vapour Production | Throat Hit |
| 100% | 0% | Very little vapour production | Very strong throat hit, maximum level |
| 80% | 20% | Very little vapour production | Strong throat hit |
| 70% | 30% | Slightly more obvious vapour | Slightly less than strong throat hit |
| 60% | 40% | Obvious vapour | Throat hit is no longer overwhelming |
| 50% | 50% | Moderate vapour | Moderate throat hit |
| 40% | 60% | Larger vapour clouds | Smoother throat hit |
| 30% | 70% | Good vapour production | Minimal throat hit |
| 20% | 80% | Excellent vapour production | Barely noticeable throat hit |
| 0% | 100% | Huge plumes of vapour, much sweetertaste | No throat hit whatsoever |
Several factors influence the preference for a specific PG/VG ratio. Smokers transitioning to vaping may appreciate higher PG ratios, replicating the sensation of traditional cigarettes. Those seeking voluminous clouds might lean towards higher VG ratios. Experimentation is key; exploring various ratios helps you discover the sweet spot that suits your taste and vaping style.
See the chart below for an idea of what effect the different ingredient levels have.
| PG/VG Ratio | Throat Hit | Flavour | Vapour or ‘Cloud’ Production |
| High PG (usually 60%+ PG) |
Strong | Strong | Low |
| 50PG/50VG | Medium | Medium | Medium |
| High VG (usually 60%+ VG) |
Low | Medium | High |
Sub-ohm vaping, characterized by lower resistance coils and increased power, demands specific considerations for PG/VG ratios. Optimal ratios for sub-ohm vaping tend to lean towards higher VG content, facilitating impressive cloud production. Enthusiasts who revel in cloud chasing often favor VG-dominant blends for a visually striking vaping experience.
The type of coil in your vaping device also plays a role in determining the suitable PG/VG ratio. High-PG liquids are ideal for mouth-to-lung coils, providing enhanced flavour and a satisfying throat hit. In contrast, sub-ohm coils accommodate higher VG ratios, ensuring proper wicking and preventing dry hits. Matching the ratio with your coil type maximizes both performance and coil longevity.
If you’re not sure which ratio to go with, you can’t usually go wrong with a balanced 50/50 eliquid. See the chart below for a rough idea of different PV/VG ratios and coil resistance compatibility.
| Coil Resistance (in ohms?Ω) | Best All-Round PG/VG Ratio | Other Suitable Ratios | Extra Information |
| 1.5 to 2.5 ohm | 70% PG | 50/50 PGVG 60% to 70% PG |
We do not recommend any higher than 70% PG – this would be very thin & harsh on the throat |
| 1.0 to 1.4 ohm | 50/50 PGVG | 70% PG 60% VG |
Slightly higher PG will give stronger flavour & more throat hit. VG will be smoother & create more vapour |
| 0.5 to 1 ohm | 50/50 PGVG | 60% to 70% VG | E-liquids with more than 50% PG may cause leakage or a burnt flavour |
| 0.1 to 0.4 ohm | 80% VG | 50/50 PGVG 60% to 100% VG |
50/50 e-liquid will work with these coils, but thicker, higher VG liquids will produce bigger, thicker clouds |
If you are using a device with variable wattage or voltage, bear in mind that you may need to adjust the settings depending on the e-liquid and coils that you’re using.
For the adventurous vapers, DIY e-liquid mixing opens a realm of possibilities. Crafting your blends allows precise control over PG/VG ratios, catering to your specific preferences. Online e-liquid calculators and resources simplify the process, empowering you to create personalized concoctions that deliver exactly what you desire.Using a DIY e-liquid calculator removes guesswork by letting you input nicotine strength, PG/VG ratio, and flavour percentage. It calculates ingredient amounts for your desired e-juice quantity.
As you embark on your vaping journey, remember that the PG/VG ratio is more than just numbers—it’s the key to unlocking your ideal vaping experience. Experiment, explore, and find the balance that resonates with your taste buds and cloud aspirations. Whether you’re chasing bold flavours, voluminous clouds, or a harmonious blend of both, the right PG/VG ratio will guide you towards vaping perfection.
