If you've spent any time in the vaping world, you've likely encountered the terms PG and VG. These two ingredients form the base of virtually all e-liquids, and their ratio significantly impacts your vaping experience.
Understanding PG/VG ratios is essential for selecting e-liquids that match your device and personal preferences. This guide will break down everything you need to know about these fundamental components.
What Are PG and VG?
A thin, odorless liquid that carries flavor well and provides a throat hit similar to smoking.
Key Characteristics:
- Better flavor carrier
- Stronger throat hit
- Thinner consistency
- Less vapor production
A thicker, slightly sweet liquid that produces dense vapor clouds but carries flavor less effectively.
Key Characteristics:
- Denser vapor clouds
- Smoother throat hit
- Naturally sweet
- Thicker consistency
Common PG/VG Ratios
E-liquids come in various PG/VG ratios, each suited to different devices and vaping styles:
50% PG / 50% VG
Best for: Beginners, mouth-to-lung vaping
30% PG / 70% VG
Best for: Sub-ohm devices, cloud chasing
20% PG / 80% VG
Best for: Advanced sub-ohm devices, max vapor
70% PG / 30% VG
Best for: Pod systems, strong throat hit
Choosing the Right Ratio for Your Device
Pod Systems & Beginner Devices
Recommended: 50/50 or higher PG ratios (60/40 PG/VG)
Thinner e-liquids with higher PG content work better with the smaller wicking holes in pod systems and provide the throat hit many former smokers desire.
Vape Pens & Mid-Range Devices
Recommended: 50/50 to 30/70 PG/VG
These devices can handle slightly thicker e-liquids, offering a balance between flavor and vapor production.
Sub-Ohm Devices & Box Mods
Recommended: High VG ratios (30/70 or 20/80 PG/VG)
These powerful devices require thicker, high-VG e-liquids to prevent leaking and produce the massive vapor clouds they're designed for.
Special Considerations
PG Sensitivity
A small percentage of vapers experience sensitivity to PG, which can cause dry mouth, sore throat, or mild allergic reactions. If you notice these symptoms, try switching to a higher VG ratio.
Flavor Preferences
If flavor is your priority, higher PG ratios will deliver more intense taste. For dessert and cream flavors, higher VG ratios can enhance their richness.
Nicotine Strength
Higher PG ratios allow for better nicotine absorption, meaning you might need less nicotine in high-PG e-liquids to achieve the same satisfaction.
Experiment to Find Your Preference
The perfect PG/VG ratio is highly personal and depends on your device, vaping style, and individual preferences. Don't be afraid to experiment with different ratios to discover what works best for you.
Many vapers find that having different ratios for different situations works well - higher PG for a discreet, flavorful vape during the day, and higher VG for cloud production when relaxing at home.