Understanding VG/PG Ratios:
What They Mean for Your Vaping Experience?

If you’ve spent any time browsing e-liquids, you’ve probably noticed “VG” and “PG” ratios on the labels. But what exactly do these numbers mean? And how do they affect your vaping experience? Let’s break down the basics of VG (Vegetable Glycerin) and PG (Propylene Glycol) so you can make an informed choice that fits your preferences.

What Are VG and PG?

VG and PG are the main ingredients in e-liquids. They each bring something different to the table, impacting flavor, throat hit, and vapor production. Here’s a quick rundown:

• Vegetable Glycerin (VG): A thicker, sweeter substance derived from vegetable oils. VG is known for creating large vapor clouds and a smoother, milder throat hit.
• Propylene Glycol (PG): A thinner, flavorless liquid that enhances flavor and delivers a stronger throat hit. PG also helps carry the flavor in e-liquids, making it popular for vapers who want intense flavor and a hit similar to traditional cigarettes.

Understanding VG/PG Ratios

When you see a VG/PG ratio, such as 70/30 or 50/50, the first number refers to VG, and the second refers to PG. This ratio affects your overall vaping experience, including how smooth or strong each puff feels, the intensity of the flavor, and how much vapor you’ll produce. Let’s dive into the common ratios and what they mean for you.

1. 50/50 VG/PG: Balanced Experience

A 50/50 blend provides a middle ground between VG and PG. Here’s what you can expect:

• Flavor: Good balance between strong flavor and smoothness.
• Throat Hit: Moderate, providing a sensation similar to smoking.
• Vapor Production: Decent vapor clouds, but not as big as higher VG blends.

This ratio is ideal if you’re transitioning from smoking to vaping, as it mimics the feeling of a cigarette while still delivering enjoyable flavor and vapor.

2. 70/30 VG/PG: More Clouds, Less Throat Hit

A 70/30 blend leans towards VG, giving you a smooth and cloud-heavy experience. Here’s how it impacts your vape:

• Flavor: Still good, but slightly less intense than lower VG ratios.
• Throat Hit: Milder throat hit, great if you prefer a gentler draw.
• Vapor Production: Big, dense clouds—perfect for cloud chasers.

This ratio is popular with vapers who want a softer hit and bigger clouds, but still like some flavor intensity. It’s also less likely to cause throat irritation, making it ideal for frequent vaping.

3. High VG (80% or Higher): Cloud Chaser’s Dream

High VG e-liquids (often 80/20 or even max VG) are all about cloud production and smoothness. Here’s what you can expect:

• Flavor: Still present, but slightly muted compared to balanced ratios.
• Throat Hit: Super smooth and mild, which some vapers love.
• Vapor Production: Enormous, dense clouds for those who love the visual appeal of vaping.

If you’re into cloud chasing and enjoy long, smooth draws, high VG e-liquids are a great choice. However, these thicker liquids require more powerful devices, so they’re typically used in sub-ohm tanks or advanced mods.

4. High PG (70% or Higher): Intense Flavor and Throat Hit

High PG blends are perfect if you’re after a punchy flavor and a solid throat hit. Here’s what you get with high PG ratios:

• Flavor: Very intense, with excellent flavor clarity.
• Throat Hit: Strong, similar to traditional cigarettes.
• Vapor Production: Smaller clouds, making it more discreet.

This type of ratio is ideal for former smokers or those who prefer a more discreet, flavorful vape experience without a ton of vapor. Since PG is thinner, high PG blends work well in smaller vape pens and pod systems.

Choosing the Right VG/PG Ratio for Your Device

Your choice of device plays a big role in which VG/PG ratio will work best:

• Pod Systems & Vape Pens: These devices work well with 50/50 or higher PG blends, as the thinner liquid wicks easily and prevents clogs.
• Sub-Ohm Tanks & Mods: These devices are designed for thicker, high VG e-liquids, which provide big clouds and smooth hits without causing dry hits.

Finding the Right VG/PG Ratio for You

So, which ratio is right for you? Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

• If you want a balanced experience (good flavor, moderate throat hit, decent vapor), go for a 50/50 blend.
• If you love big clouds and smooth hits with a gentle throat feel, try 70/30 or higher VG.
• If you want intense flavor and a strong throat hit, or if you’re a former smoker, a high PG blend (70/30 or higher) might suit you best.

Conclusion

Understanding VG/PG ratios can transform your vaping experience, helping you get the exact flavor, throat hit, and cloud production you want. Whether you’re after big clouds, intense flavor, or something in between, the right VG/PG blend is out there waiting for you. Experiment a little, and you’ll soon find the perfect ratio for your vaping style!