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If you're new to vaping, the variety of e-liquid and nicotine options can seem overwhelming at first. Two of the most popular types of vape juice are traditional freebase nicotine e-liquids and newer salt nicotine e-liquids. At KTC Vapes, we carry a wide selection of both styles to suit every vaper's preferences. In this guide, we'll break down the key differences between these two e-liquid categories to help you find your perfect vape.
E-liquid, also known as vape juice, is the flavored liquid that is vaporized in an e-cigarette or vaping device. Most e-liquids contain a base mixture of propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerin (VG), flavoring, and nicotine, although nicotine-free liquids are also available.
PG and VG are odorless liquids that produce vapor when heated. PG provides more flavor and a stronger throat hit, while VG generates larger vapor clouds. E-liquids are available in varying ratios of PG and VG to allow customization of your vaping experience.
In addition to the base ingredients, e-liquids come in virtually endless flavor varieties, from basic fruit and dessert flavors to more complex and novel flavor combinations. With so many available options, there's bound to be an e-liquid flavor that matches your tastes.
The nicotine ordinarily used in e-liquids is known as "freebase" nicotine. This is the purest form of nicotine and is the same type used in nicotine replacement therapies like gums and patches.
In freebase nicotine e-liquids, the nicotine is not bonded to any other chemicals, existing in a "free" state. This allows it to be quickly absorbed into the body, providing a fast-acting nicotine hit. However, higher concentrations of freebase nicotine can produce a harsh throat hit, which some users find uncomfortable.
Freebase nicotine e-liquids are typically available in strengths ranging from 0mg to 24mg of nicotine per milliliter. Many longer-term vapers prefer lower nicotine concentrations in the 3mg to 6mg range for a smooth vaping experience.
What is Salt Nicotine? Salt nicotine, such as nicotine salicylate or benzoate, refers to nicotine that has been bonded to another chemical to create a more stable molecule. These nicotine salts more closely resemble the natural nicotine salts found in tobacco leaves.
The key benefit of salt nicotine is that it provides a smoother throat hit compared to freebase nicotine, even at high concentrations. Salt nic e-liquids often have nicotine strengths of 25mg to 50mg or higher, delivering a more potent dose of nicotine per puff.
Because of their ability to quickly deliver high nicotine levels, salt nic e-liquids have become popular among smokers looking to transition to vaping. Many users report that salt nic provides a sensation more similar to smoking a cigarette in terms of fast nicotine absorption.
It's important to note that salt nicotine e-liquids are best suited for lower-powered vaping devices like pod vapes. Using high-strength nic salts in a high-powered box mod or sub-ohm device can quickly lead to nicotine overload.
Choosing Between Freebase and Salt Nicotine The choice between freebase and salt nicotine ultimately comes down to your device, priorities and vaping style. Here are some general guidelines:
You prefer a stronger throat hit
You use a higher-powered device and want to blow large clouds
You want a wide range of nicotine strengths and e-liquid flavors
You're a longer-term vaper who has tapered down to lower nicotine levels
You want a high nicotine concentration for a potent hit
You desire a smoother throat hit, even with higher nicotine levels
You're transitioning from smoking and want a similar nicotine experience
You use a smaller, lower-powered device like a pod vape and want maximum nicotine with each puff
Many vapers also use both types of e-liquids, such as using nic salts when out and about for convenience and switching to freebase liquids when at home and wanting a more leisurely vaping session.
Conclusion We hope this guide has helped clarify the key differences between freebase and salt nicotine vape juice. If you're still unsure which type is right for you, our knowledgeable staff at KTC Vapes would be happy to discuss your options and help you select some e-liquids to try.
We carry a broad range of both freebase and salt nic e-liquids in all your favorite flavors. Whether you're just starting out or are a seasoned vaper looking to try something new, you're sure to find your next all-day vape at KTC. Visit us in-store or browse our online selection today! We offer fast shipping and a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all our products.
