Vape Showdown: Nic Salt vs Freebase Vape Juices

Comparing Nic Salt and Freebase Vape Juice

Choosing Between Nic Salt and Freebase E-Liquid

Transitioning from smoking to vaping unveils a world of diverse vape flavors. Ensuring the right selection of vape juice and equipment to suit your personal preferences is crucial. This guide aims to clarify the disparity between nicotine salts and freebase e-liquids to facilitate your vaping journey.

Nicotine salts have significantly impacted the vaping industry in recent years. However, freebase vape juice (High VG, 50/50, and High PG) remains a popular choice among seasoned vapers. Let’s delve into a comparison between the two to help you determine whether nic salt e-liquids or freebase juice align better with your requirements.

In the realm of vaping, two primary types of nicotine are prevalent in e-liquids: nicotine salts (nic salts) and freebase nicotine. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of their distinguishing features:

Nicotine Salt E-liquid: Nic salts mimic the natural nicotine form found in tobacco leaves but are augmented with additives like benzoic, citric, or levulinic acid. These acids neutralize the pH, ensuring a smoother throat hit upon inhalation. Nic salts expedite nicotine delivery, closely resembling the nicotine rush from conventional cigarettes.

Nicotine in tobacco leaves is a salt in its chemical composition. A salt results from a chemical reaction involving a positive charge (acid) and a negative charge (base). This revelation dates back to the 1960s when Phillip Morris, the parent company of Marlboro, realized that adjusting nicotine’s pH amplifies its potency and dose, making their cigarettes more addictive and competitive in the market.

While the experience of vaping nic salts may resemble smoking, no tobacco combustion occurs, averting the production of tar or carbon monoxide, the harmful components of tobacco smoke.

When contemplating e-liquid choices, consider your required nicotine strength to satiate cravings effectively. Nicotine salts primarily come in 10mg and 20mg potencies; hence, if you prefer lower strengths like 3mg or 6mg, nic salts might not be the ideal option.

Advantages of Nic Salts:

• Smoother throat hit: Nicotine salts offer a milder throat sensation, making them favorable for higher nicotine concentrations.
• Rapid nicotine delivery: Nic salts are swiftly absorbed by the body (15-20 seconds), addressing nicotine cravings promptly and enduringly.
• Higher nicotine strengths: Nic salt e-liquids are often available in elevated potencies, appealing to those transitioning from traditional cigarettes.
• Cost-effective/Minimal liquid consumption: Nic salts are budget-friendly since less vaping suffices to satisfy nicotine demands.
• Potent nicotine impact: A concentrated nicotine dose prolongs satisfaction of cravings.
• Authentic smoking sensation: Nic salts mimic the throat hit of conventional cigarettes, making them suitable for novices.
• Compatible with affordable vape kits: Nic salts complement low-wattage, pod-system vape kits like the Aspire Gotek X or Eleaf iStick IORE Lite 2, priced at £9.99, inclusive of a complimentary e-liquid.
• Discreet vaping: Nic salts generate minimal vapor, ideal for inconspicuous vaping on the go.
• Perfect for MTL (mouth to lung) vaping: Nic salts facilitate a mouth-to-lung inhale technique, mimicking the restrained inhalation cycle of traditional cigarettes.
• Excellent for beginners: Nic salts ensure a gratifying inhale, particularly in user-friendly pod-system vape kits that are cost-effective and beginner-friendly.
• User-friendly: Most devices compatible with nicotine salt e-liquids are effortless to operate and hassle-free. They are typically compact, lightweight, and pocket-friendly, some even offering prefilled cartridges for convenience. Noteworthy examples include the Crystal Plus by SKE and the Elfa by Elf Bar, delivering the same delectable e-liquid as popular disposables but with rechargeable batteries for a more economical and sustainable option.
• Prolonged shelf life: Nic salts boast extended stability compared to freebase juice, attributing to their innate form that mitigates quick oxidation.

Drawbacks of Nic Salts:

• Reduced vapor production: Nic salt e-liquids may yield less vapor than freebase variants, discouraging cloud-chasers. While satisfying in inhalation, nic salts lack the billowing vapor volume.
• Unsuitable for high-wattage DTL (direct to lung) devices: Prefer high-wattage vaping? Opt for low-strength (3mg or 6mg) high VG freebase e-liquids. Applying nic salts in sub-ohm apparatus can trigger severe throat irritation, compounded by liquid leakage due to its thin consistency.
• Limited nicotine strength options: Nic salts are confined to 10mg (medium strength) and 20mg (high strength) potencies.

EXPLORE OUR WIDE RANGE OF NIC SALT E-LIQUIDS AT TABLITES.COM

For an in-depth exploration of top Nic Salt e-liquids at TABlites, peruse our blog: Top 10 Best Nic Salt Vape Juice Flavors Right Now!

Freebase Vape Juice: Freebase nicotine epitomizes the purest nicotine form in e-liquids, synonymous with traditional cigarette composition. Notably, freebase juice can elicit a harsh throat sensation, especially at higher nicotine concentrations like 18mg.

Opt for freebase e-liquids if you crave a seasoned vaper’s rough throat hit. If the back-of-throat sensation feel overly harsh, causing coughing or irritation, exploring nic salts could be a viable alternative.

The term ‘Freebase’ encompasses High PG, High VG, and 50:50 e-liquids.

Freebase has a variety of pros:

• With a wide flavour variety, Freebase nicotine offers a broader range of flavour options, without as much interference with taste as nicotine salts.
• If you’re looking for increased vapor production, Freebase (high VG) e-liquids are popular for producing more vapour, especially among cloud chasers.
• Freebase vape juice is considered the purest form of nicotine, with no additives like nicotine salt, ensuring purity.
• It is suitable for most vaping styles: Freebase vape juice in high VG is designed for DTL (direct to lung) vaping, while high PG e-liquids cater to MTL (mouth to lung) vapers. A blend of 50:50 PG:VG offers a balance and satisfying hit with medium cloud production.
• If you prefer larger cloud production, consider e-liquids with a higher VG to PG ratio, known as High VG for higher wattage devices, vaped at lower nicotine strengths (3mg or 6mg) to produce voluminous clouds.
• Freebase e-liquids come in various nicotine strength options, offering a wide choice to cater to different preferences, such as 0mg, 3mg, 6mg, 12mg, and 18mg in popular brands like TABlites.

Downsides of using Freebase:

• For some users, the harsher throat hit of freebase nicotine compared to salts may be a concern, especially at higher concentrations.
• The slower nicotine delivery of freebase may be a drawback, as it takes longer for the body to absorb, potentially affecting instant satisfaction compared to salts.
• Users may find they need more e-liquid and puffs to achieve a comparable nicotine hit with Freebase.
• Flavour weaknesses may be a concern as nicotine is added to Freebase e-liquids, leading to potential dilution of flavour.

EXPLORE OUR WIDE RANGE OF FREEBASE E-LIQUIDS AT TABLITES.COM

In essence, the choice between nic salt e-liquids and freebase vape juice depends on personal preference and nicotine needs. Nic salts suit those preferring smoother throat hits and higher nicotine concentrations, while freebase offers more variety in flavours, nicotine strengths, and vapor production. Experimentation helps find the best match for your vaping style and nicotine preferences.

Nic Salt Frequently Asked Questions

What sparked the popularity of Nic Salts?

Nic salts gained traction in 2015 when Juul (Pax Labs, Inc) patented their nicotine salt formula. Juul’s closed system vape pods with nicotine salt e-liquids offered a throat hit similar to cigarettes, making them popular and memorable worldwide.

Do disposable vapes use Nic Salts?

Yes, brands like Elf Bar, Lost Mary, Elux, and SKE incorporate salt nicotine in disposable vapes, tailored for instant use with no prior vaping experience required, ideal for smokers seeking a familiar sensation.

Who benefits from Nic Salts?

Nic salts are ideal for heavy smokers and those seeking efficient nicotine delivery as an alternative to traditional cigarettes, particularly suitable for extended breaks between vaping sessions.

What are the most popular Nic Salt e-liquid lines?

Top-selling nic salt e-liquid collections reflect disposable vape flavours, with some brands offering 10ml nic salt versions mirroring their disposable counterparts, meeting the demand for consistent, high-quality flavours.

As the market evolves, customers seek the same great flavours in disposables for use in rechargeable and refillable devices.

Top 10 Most Popular Nic Salt E-Liquid Lines:

1. Elux Legend Nic Salts
2. Elfliq Nic Salts by Elf Bar
3. TABlites Nic Salts
4. Bar Juice 5000
5. Seriously Bar Salts by Doozy Vape
6. IVG Bar Favourites
7. Pod Mate by Nasty Juice
8. Element Nic Salt
9. IVG Salt
10. Double Drip Nic Salt

What distinguishes Bar Salts?

Bar Salts emulate popular disposable vape flavours in 10ml bottles, offering intense vape flavours for low-powered MTL refillable pod kits like the Aspire Gotek X and OXVA Xlim Pro Kit.

Available in 10mg and 20mg nicotine strengths, Bar Salts cater to high and medium strength vapers for quick, lasting nicotine satisfaction.

Do Nic Salts produce substantial vapour clouds?

Nic salts typically use a 50/50 PG/VG blend for moderate throat hits and cloud production. For voluminous clouds, explore our selection of high VG shortfill e-liquids from industry-leading brands.

Are Nic Salts considered safe?

Nicotine salts are neither safer nor riskier than conventional freebase e-liquids. Public Health England notes that vaping, while not risk-free, lacks many harmful chemicals from smoking, making it a safer alternative with an estimated 95% lower risk compared to smoking.

Based on current data, it seems likely that the estimate will hold true.

To ensure safety, always buy your vape supplies from reputable sources like TABlites and confirm that the vape juice meets UK safety standards. All products at tablites.com and our UK vape stores comply fully with TPD regulations.

Can Nic Salts expire?

E-liquids will inevitably expire over time, but nic salts degrade more slowly than freebase nicotine. They are chemically more stable, resulting in slower degradation and oxidation.

Most e-liquids have a shelf life of approximately 2 years from the manufacturing date and should be used within this timeframe. For optimal results, store your e-liquids in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Signs of Expired E-liquid:

• Color Change: E-Liquid darkens due to oxidation. Has your e-liquid turned brown? This may indicate the need for a fresh purchase.
• Nicotine Strength: Over time, nicotine potency in e-liquid may diminish.
• Flavor: Flavor may degrade over time due to interactions among flavorings and the PG/VG base, resulting in altered taste profiles.
• Consistency: E-liquids may thicken or thin out due to different formulations.
• Separation: Ingredients in some e-liquids may separate over time, with heavier components settling at the bottom.

Where to Purchase Nic Salts Online?

TABlites offers a wide range of nic salt e-liquid flavors including tobacco, menthol, fruit, dessert, candy, and sodas. Explore our multi-buy e-liquid vape deals for savings on your vape purchases.

We also stock one of the largest selections of disposable vapes in the UK from trusted brands like Elf Bar, Lost Mary, Elux, and more. Get any 5 disposable vapes for only £20!

Does Nic Salt Contain Salt?

Nic salts do not contain table salt i.e., sodium chloride, and do not taste salty.

Nic salts differ from freebase e-liquids as they incorporate food-grade acid into their formulations. This acid addition transforms freebase e-liquid into salt nicotine, converting the nicotine molecule into a salt form with an additional proton.

Is Nic Salt Beneficial?

Nic salts can provide a better experience than freebase e-liquid for individuals transitioning from smoking to vaping or for dual users. They offer a strong throat hit resembling smoking sensation, smooth inhale even at high doses, and are suitable for pod kits, pen vapes, and low-powered devices.

For those switching from smoking to vaping, pod vape kits and nic salts can serve as an excellent starting point. Pod vape kits are simple to use and budget-friendly, delivering a satisfying inhale with nicotine salts to curb cravings effectively.

Is Nic Salt More Potent?

Nic salts generally provide a stronger, smoother, and more satisfying nicotine delivery compared to freebase vape juice. In the UK, 20mg e-liquid is the highest legal nicotine strength, ideal for those seeking a more potent vaping experience.

Choosing the Right Nic Salt Strength

Nic salt e-liquids are offered in 10mg and 20mg nicotine strengths. If you smoke 5-10 cigarettes daily, consider starting with 10mg, while 20mg may suit smokers of 10+ cigarettes a day. Experiment with different strengths to find what works best for you.

For further guidance on nicotine strengths, refer to our E-Liquid Nicotine Strengths Guide.

Key Ingredients in E-Liquid

The primary components of e-liquid are PG (Propylene Glycol), VG (Vegetable Glycerin), flavorings, and nicotine.

Freebase FAQs

Are Freebase E-Liquids Harsh?

High nicotine strengths in freebase e-liquids, such as 18mg, can cause throat irritation. If freebase vape juices are too harsh, consider trying nic salts for a smoother experience.

TABlites stocks a diverse range of nicotine salt vape flavors from top brands like Nasty Juice, Doozy Vape, Fantasi, IVG, Elux, Elf Bar, and more. Explore our best-selling nic salt e-liquids for a smoother vaping experience.

Compatibility with Freebase E-Juice

Technically, freebase e-liquid can be used in any vape device. Let’s examine the types of Freebase e-liquids available:

High VG E-Liquid: Thick, odorless High VG (Vegetable Glycerin) liquids are derived from vegetable oils, offering dense vapor clouds. They are suitable for high-powered sub-ohm devices.

High PG E-Liquid: Colorless, slightly sweet High PG (Propylene Glycol) e-liquids provide throat hit and intense flavor, ideal for replicating smoking sensation.

High VG e-liquids are compatible with sub-ohm kits featuring low-resistance sub-ohm coils below 1.0Ω. Popular sub-ohm kits include Eleaf iPower 2, VooPoo Drag X2, Vaporesso Luxe X.

Enhancing the overall flavor and acting as a preservative, it is popular for e-liquids with strong flavor profiles.

E-liquids that contain 50% VG and 50% PG, known as 50/50 e-liquids, provide equal measures of vapor cloud and throat hit. They technically work in any device but are best suited to lower powered vape kits like pod kits and pen kits with plus-ohm coils (any coil measuring above 1.0Ω) in resistance.

High PG e-liquids are ideal for vape starter kits, pen vape kits, and pod system kits as they are thin in consistency. Coils are made with smaller inlet holes to allow thinner e-liquid to enter the coils.

Examples of popular starter vape kits include Aspire PockeX, Aspire Flexus Q, and Innokin T20S.

Examples of popular pod vape kits are Uwell Caliburn A3, Smok Nord 2, and Aspire Gotek X.

What are the most popular Freebase e-liquid brands?

1. TABlites E-Liquid
2. Vampire Vape
3. Simple Essentials
4. Wick Liquor
5. IVG
6. Nasty Juice
7. Dinner Lady
8. Doozy Vape
9. Element E-Liquid
10. Zeus Juice

We hope you found this article useful and that it has helped in making the choice between nic salts and freebase e-liquids an easy task.

For more information about vaping, why not read our vape guides and our blog?

If you require any help or advice on e-liquids, vape kits, tanks, or coils, feel free to contact us as we are always happy to help.

Tel: 0161 723 0064

Email: sales@tablites.com