If you have been vaping any length of time you have probably heard the terms “PG and VG” but may not understand what they mean in terms of how they affect your vaping experience. Here is a quick guide about PG/VG ratios in your vape juice and how to determine what ratio will work best for you and your device.
What is PG/VG?
PG stands for propylene glycol. It is a by-product of propylene oxide. It is a clear, odorless liquid used in making a variety of products from cosmetics to pet food. It makes an excellent flavor carrier for most e-liquids and works very well in most cartomizers. It is easily absorbed by the Poly-fill wicking material surrounding the coil heads inside the tubing. Liquids with a higher concentration of PG would work well for someone who prefers a stronger throat hit and more pronounced flavor but not as much vapor.
VG stands for Vegetable Glycerin and is a product made from palm and coconut oil. Its uses include beauty products like lotions, moisturizers and baby wipes. Compared to PG, VG is a thicker liquid and mutes the flavor and throat hit in some e-liquids. If you are someone who likes less throat hit and more vapor, then a higher concentration of VG in your liquid may be best for you.
How Does It Apply to Vaping?
A combination of these two liquids, as well as flavoring and nicotine, make up most commercial e-liquids. Manufacturers and vape shops create their e-juice with a pre-set ratio of 70 PG/30 VG which works well for most vapers, apart from a small portion of the population who are sensitive to PG. For some vapers, it simply makes the liquid too harsh for them and makes them cough too much. Those people would benefit more from a liquid with a higher ration of VG instead. Because PG sensitivity is an issue, many shops offer a 50/50 option or will custom mix a different blend for you.
What Ratio Would Be Best?
For someone without a preference for either a standard 70PG/30VG will work just fine. That ratio works well in most cartridges and top fill tanks with cotton wicks. Most tanks require a thinner liquid because it absorbs the e-liquid best and avoids dry hits or burning.
If you prefer a more balanced mix you can opt for the 50PG/50VG with smoother throat hit and more vapor. Flavor in a 50/50 mix is still good. It is also still thin enough to use in cartridges and tanks. If you would like a little less, another good option is 40PG/60VG but your flavor will be a little muted. People with PG sensitivity would do well with this option or even the 50/50.
Who Should Use Max VG?
Max VG and blends of 70, 80 and 90 work best in bottom-fed tanks, rebuildable atomizers and dripping atomizers such as the ones used for advanced vaporizers and mods. These types of devices require a thicker liquid because they are used with devices generating a higher level of heat. Sub-ohm tanks can also use Max VG without any problems.
The ideal ratio of PG and VG in your e-liquid subjective. It is all a matter of preference and what works best for your device. It may take trial and error to find the perfect match.
