Types of Vape Juice (E-Liquid): A Beginner's Guide in 2025

When it comes to vaping, the type of e-liquid you choose can completely transform your experience. But with so many vape juices available, it can be tricky to figure out which one best suits your device, coil, and personal preference.

All vape juices share one thing in common, vegetable glycerine (VG), but beyond that, they can vary significantly in terms of nicotine strength, throat hit, vapor production, and the type of device they’re compatible with. From bar salts designed for disposables to high VG shortfills ideal for cloud-chasing, each vape juice type serves a specific purpose.

In this guide, we’ll explore the most popular types of e-liquid, what makes each unique, and which ones are best for beginners, MTL (mouth-to-lung) vapers, or sub-ohm enthusiasts. Whether you're new to vaping or just looking to switch things up, this breakdown will help you make the right choice.

What Is Vape Juice?

Vape juice, also known as e-liquid or vape liquid, is the fluid used in electronic cigarettes and vape devices to produce vapor. When heated by the vape's coil, this liquid turns into a vapor that is inhaled by the user. Vape juice is a key component of the vaping experience, and it comes in a wide range of flavors and nicotine strengths.

Main Ingredients of Vape Juice

1. Propylene Glycol (PG):

A thin, flavor-carrying liquid that produces a stronger throat hit. It’s commonly used in food and medical products.

2. Vegetable Glycerin (VG):

A thicker, slightly sweet liquid that creates dense vapor clouds. It’s plant-based and found in many skincare and food items.

3. Flavorings:

Food-grade flavor concentrates that create the wide variety of vape juice flavors—from fruits and desserts to mint, tobacco, and more.

4. Nicotine (Optional):

Many vape juices contain nicotine in varying strengths, while others are completely nicotine-free.

Types of Vape Juice (E-Liquid)

1. Nicotine Salts (Nic Salts)

Nicotine salts, often called Nic Salts, are perfect for those who want a smooth, satisfying vape with a quick nicotine hit. Unlike traditional freebase nicotine, nic salts are absorbed more rapidly into the bloodstream and deliver a milder throat hit, even at higher strengths (like 10mg or 20mg).

Best for: Smokers transitioning to vaping, or those who prefer discreet, high-nicotine vaping without harshness.

Compatible with: Low-powered pod systems or starter kits (not suitable for sub-ohm vaping).

2. High VG E-Liquids

High VG vape juices contain a higher ratio of vegetable glycerine, usually 70% VG or more. This makes them ideal for producing thick, dense clouds and delivering smooth, rich flavor. However, they’re thicker in consistency, so they require coils with large wicking ports.

Best for: Cloud chasers and sub-ohm vapers who use advanced vape kits.

Compatible with: Sub-ohm tanks and high-powered vape mods.

3. 50/50 Vape Juice

As the name suggests, 50/50 vape juice is a balanced blend of 50% VG and 50% PG (propylene glycol). This makes it a great all-rounder, providing a good mix of flavor, throat hit, and vapor production. It's also thinner in consistency, so it's less likely to clog coils.

Best for: New vapers or anyone looking for a balanced vape.

Compatible with: Most starter kits and mouth-to-lung (MTL) devices.

4. Freebase Vape Juice

Freebase nicotine is the original form of nicotine used in most traditional e-liquids. It provides a stronger throat hit and is typically available in lower nicotine strengths compared to nic salts. Freebase vape juice offers a more intense flavor and is better for those who prefer a sharper inhale.

Best for: Vapers who enjoy a stronger throat hit and moderate nicotine intake.

Compatible with: MTL devices and some sub-ohm kits (depending on the VG/PG ratio).

5. Shortfills

Shortfills are large bottles of e-liquid (usually 50ml to 100ml) that contain zero nicotine but leave room (often 10ml or 20ml) for adding nicotine shots. They are almost always high VG, making them ideal for sub-ohm devices. They're perfect for vapers who want more juice and the freedom to control nicotine strength.

Best for: Experienced vapers who want customization and larger bottle sizes.

Compatible with: Sub-ohm tanks and powerful vape mods.

6. MTL Vape Juice

MTL (Mouth-to-Lung) e-liquids are designed for devices that mimic the draw of a traditional cigarette. These juices typically come in a higher PG ratio (or balanced 50/50) and are great for low-wattage kits. They offer a tight draw, strong flavor, and moderate vapor.

Best for: Ex-smokers, beginners, or those who enjoy a cigarette-style inhale.

Compatible with: Pod systems and pen-style MTL kits.

7. Bar Salts

Bar salts are the newest trend in vaping. Designed to replicate the smooth, flavorful hit of disposable vapes, they usually come in 20mg strength and are made with nicotine salts. If you’re moving from disposables to refillable devices, bar salts offer a similar taste and hit.

Best for: Disposable vape users looking to switch to reusable kits.

Compatible with: Low-wattage pod kits and refillable MTL devices.

8. DIY E-Liquids

DIY e-liquids are made by mixing your own VG, PG, nicotine, and flavor concentrates. This approach is for experienced users who want complete control over their vape juice, from flavor intensity to nicotine strength.

Best for: Advanced vapers who want customization and cost savings.

Compatible with: Any device (depending on the VG/PG mix you create).

Top Vape Juice to Try

If you’re exploring the different types of e liquid and you desire to know what type of e liquid is optimal to begin with, we present some popular choices. These options cover a variety of types of vape juice so that you can enjoy flavours that match with your style.

1. Juiceman Baker E-Liquid

For vapers who love dessert flavours, a perfect bakery-inspired option. A great choice in case you are looking for sweet types of vape juices that provide a smooth throat hit.

2. Candy Classics 100 ml E-Liquid

Anyone with a sweet tooth will find this to be just one of the best of all of the nostalgic candy e liquids.

3. Vampire Blood E-Liquid

It is now a fruity favourite among all of the different types of vape juice that offers bold berry blends along with a sweet punch.

4. Future Juice – Strawberry Milk

This dessert-style flavour is creamy rich as well as indulgent. It is optimal if you seek the finest vape juice for a smooth all-day vape.

5. Mr Blue E-Liquid

A cool burst of berries feels refreshing; it differs from e liquid types that UK vapers tend to love.

These options will help you find your perfect match whether you prefer creamy or icy flavours. Flavours of fruit are also a good option as a match that is perfect.

Conclusion

Understanding the different types of vape juice can make a huge difference in your vaping journey. Whether you prefer the quick satisfaction of nic salts, the clouds of high VG, or the custom experience of DIY mixes, there’s something out there for every kind of vaper.

Choosing the right vape juice also means getting the best out of your vape device, improving flavor, longevity, and satisfaction. So, if you’re just starting out or ready to try something new, use this guide to match your preferences with the perfect juice.

Happy vaping!