As the name suggests, this is a way of inhaling the flavoured vapour that your e-cigarette device produces. You take a draw, take the vapour into your mouth, hold it, and then inhale fully into your lungs before exhaling. You might hear this referred to as MTL for short.

Mouth to Lung Benefits:

New vapers, generally, tend to start with mouth to lung as it offers a good throat hit, perfect if you are just switching over from tobacco cigarettes. For delivery of vapour with a higher nicotine level, this is a good place to start. Of course, MTL isn’t just for new vapers, far from it. Many experienced/advanced vapers believe that mouth-to-lung offers a better flavour experience than direct-to-lung does, which makes sense given the roll-over-the-tongue way of vaping.

Again, as the name suggests, you inhale the vapour straight into your lungs, this time without holding it in your mouth. This form of vaping is often called DTL rather than direct-to-lung. Some might mention “straight to lung,” but this is exactly the same thing.

Direct to Lung Benefits:

Direct-to-lung vaping can actually be pretty intense, and it might make you cough to start with. Many describe this way of vaping as the one that is most like the experience of smoking a tobacco cigarette, both in action and strength of throat hit. Cloud chasers, those who love the big vape cloud action, are more likely to be direct to lung vapers as this method is the better way to produce what you are looking for intense, flavour-filled clouds.

There is no wrong choice in terms or indeed in which method you use. It’s all about finding the perfect vape for you and your individual needs. This is very much a trial-and-error situation. Try both and see which satisfies you the most.

How do you know that you are getting it right? These tips will help.

Direct to Lung Vaping Technique:

Hold your loaded device and take a slow, steady draw straight into your lungs. There’s no special way to do this; you simply breathe it in as you would take a deep breath when out and about. If your e-cigarette has a feature that allows you to adjust the airflow, open this up to full before vaping to allow more air into the vape.

Mouth-to-Lung Vaping Technique:

Rather than breathe in your vapour straight to your lung, hold it in your mouth, savour it and then inhale to your lung. Unlike the quick drag on a cigarette, you would normally take in a longer draw when mouth-to-lung vaping. Holding the vapour in your mouth before inhaling may take a few tries to get right, but if it’s the right method for you, it’s worth trying and perfecting.

Again, trial and error is probably the best approach when determining what works best for you. However, vapers generally choose these types of e-liquids with their chosen inhalation method.

E Liquids for Mouth to Lung:

High-PG e liquids (those with a high propylene glycol level) tend to be most popular with mouth-to-lung vapers as they give a great throat hit. A 50% PG / 50% VG ratio works very well.

E Liquids for Direct to Lung Vaping:

Given that vapers choosing direct to lung vaping tend to be those looking for, or certainly enjoying, the bigger cloud experience high VG (Vegetable Glycerin) e-liquids tend to work best. Aside from the big cloud benefits, high VG e liquids tend to offer a smoother, less harsh vape. Look for 70:30 and 80:20 rations of VG to PG in your favourite flavours.

Nicotine Levels for MTL and DTL:

What nicotine levels you choose will come down to personal preference however, due to the way these two inhalation methods work, it may be worth considering the following guidance, at least when starting out.

MTL Nicotine Strength:
Those who have just switched over from tobacco cigarette smoking to vaping might find that they favour stronger nicotine levels. Experience shows us that those enjoying MTL vaping tend to do so with e-liquids that have a higher nicotine strength level.

DTL Nicotine Strength:
Due to the way that vapour goes straight into your lungs, many DTL vapers tend to opt for a lower nicotine level. Higher levels give too much of a throat hit and are, therefore too harsh. Zero-nicotine e liquids to 0.6% strength e juice maximum tend to be the preferred strength for DTL.

There is no best option; there are simply two more ways that you may customise your vaping experience dependant on your individual likes, wants and needs. If switching over from tobacco cigarettes, we might suggest starting with mouth-to-lung vaping, as many new vapers report that this method is most like cigarette smoking and most likely to help them switch over successfully and permanently.

Vaping is all about choice. You can choose your e-liquid flavours, whether you opt for a high VG e-liquid or a more balanced PG/VG mix, such as a 50% PG 50% VG liquid, nicotine strength, and more. Some different devices are available, sub-ohm and otherwise, for you to choose from. As well as producing outstanding vapour (similar to that produced by an RDA/RTA e-cigarette device), choosing the sub-ohm option allows you to ramp up the flavours from your chosen e-liquids.

Your vapour will also be warmer because it is heated at a higher temperature. This is something that many ex-smoking vapers have already experienced and enjoyed. In the recent past, sub-Ohm vaping had a cult status in the vaping community. Undoubtedly, the biggest attraction was (and is) the effortless production of superhuman vapour clouds.

Big clouds aren’t the only attraction. It’s widely believed that the whole sub-Ohm movement was originally driven by a quest for cleaner, fresher e juice flavour. There’s no doubt about the flavour superiority of a sub-Ohm coil wicked with organic cotton.

The increasing popularity of sub-Ohm vaping has helped to make variable wattage (VW) and temperature control (TC) mods much more widely available. These sophisticated mods allow you to vary the warmth of your vape by adjusting the power and coil temperature. For some vapers, the experience is closer to the mouth feel of a traditional tobacco cigarette.

The pace of change in the vaping equipment market is incredible. Luckily, for the vaping newbie, that means better equipment at a more affordable price. Just a few years ago, you’d need to invest in an expensive mod, a Rebuildable Dripping Atomizer (RDA) and a spool of Kanthal wire. Before self-building your sub-Ohm coils, you’d also need to dig out a physics textbook to read up on Ohm’s law and basic electrical theory.

While a basic understanding of Ohm’s law is still pretty useful, you can now buy simple, sub-Ohm starter kits off the shelf from any vape store. The Geek Vape Obelisk 60 Kit comes with the sub-Ohm coil types ready to use with its powerful 2200 mah battery, which can be charged from any USB power source. This kit offers extensive control over your vape, including variable wattage, temperature control, and adjustable airflow, so it's an ideal advanced vape kit.

The Uwell Crown 4 Tank is well respected and comes with 2 x sub-ohm coils. Replacements coils are inexpensive and available from vape stores. This dependable tank must be teamed up with a mod with a minimum 55-watt power output.

The Aspire Paradox box mod offers variable wattage (up to 75 Watts) and Variable Voltage, Variable Wattage, and Bypass mode. These features are well worth having, and this top-quality mod is available at a very affordable price, including a free battery and free delivery.

Sub-ohm vaping has gained significant popularity among enthusiasts due to its unique characteristics and enhanced experience. This vaping style involves atomisers with a resistance below one ohm, allowing for increased power and vapour production.

Enhanced Flavour And Vapour Production:

One of the primary benefits of sub-ohm vaping is the intensified flavour and increased vapour production. The lower resistance in sub-ohm coils allows for more electricity to flow through the wire, resulting in a greater amount of heat being produced. This increase in heat vaporises e-liquid more efficiently, leading to rich, dense clouds and a more pronounced flavour profile. The experience of sub-ohm vaping is often described as smoother, fuller, and more satisfying than traditional vaping methods.

Warmer Vaping Experience:

Sub-ohm vaping offers a warmer vaping experience, which many users find preferable. The increased power output and vapour production contribute to a warmer inhale, mimicking the sensation of traditional smoking. This warmer vape can provide a more satisfying throat hit for individuals transitioning from cigarettes to vaping.

Customisability And Personalisation:

Sub-ohm vaping allows for high customizability, enabling users to tailor their experience according to their preferences. With sub-ohm setups, vapers can adjust parameters such as airflow, wattage, and coil types. This level of control empowers users to fine-tune their devices to achieve the desired balance between flavour, vapour production, and throat hit.

Efficient Nicotine Delivery:

Sub-ohm vaping can be particularly advantageous for individuals seeking efficient nicotine delivery. The increased power and vapour production of sub-ohm devices allow higher nicotine concentrations to be used without sacrificing flavour or smoothness. This means vapers can experience the desired nicotine satisfaction more quickly and effectively than standard vaping devices.

Cloud Chasing:

Sub-ohm vaping has become synonymous with cloud chasing, a subculture within the community that focuses on producing massive vapour clouds. With sub-ohm setups, vapers can achieve impressive cloud production due to the increased power output and larger coil surface area. Many vapers enjoy the art of cloud chasing as it adds an element of fun and creativity to their vaping experience.

Battery Efficiency:

Contrary to popular belief, sub-ohm vaping can be more battery-efficient than higher-resistance setups. By utilising sub-ohm coils, vapers can achieve the desired level of power and vapour production at lower wattages. This results in extended battery life, allowing vapers to enjoy their vaping sessions for longer without recharging.

Wide Range Of Compatible Devices:

Another advantage of sub-ohm vaping is the wide availability of compatible devices. Many reputable manufacturers offer a plethora of sub-ohm tanks, atomisers, and mods designed specifically for this vaping style. This variety allows vapers to choose from various devices that suit their preferences and budget.

Sub-ohm vaping has gained popularity recently as a more advanced and powerful style. It involves using a less than one-ohm coil resistance device, increasing vapour production and intensifying the flavour. While sub-ohm vaping can enhance the vaping experience, beginners should be aware of important safety considerations before diving into this style of vaping. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:

Battery Safety: Sub-ohm vaping requires a device with a high-capacity battery to handle the increased power demands. Investing in quality batteries from reputable brands and ensuring they are properly maintained and stored is crucial. Inspect batteries for any signs of damage, and never carry loose batteries in pockets or bags where they can come into contact with metal objects.

Ohm's Law and Understanding Resistance: Sub-ohm vaping involves lower coil resistances, which means higher current flows through the circuit. It is essential to have a solid understanding of Ohm's Law, which relates voltage, current, and resistance. By knowing these principles, you can calculate the safe limits for your device and avoid overloading your batteries or damaging your mod.

Adequate Ventilation: As sub-ohm vaping generates larger amounts of vapour, it’s important to consider ventilation. Ensure you vape in well-ventilated areas to prevent vapour accumulation, which could lead to discomfort or respiratory issues. Avoid confined spaces or areas with limited airflow, as excessive vapour can cause visibility problems.

E-Liquid Selection: Higher VG (vegetable glycerin) ratios are generally preferred in sub-ohm vaping. VG produces thicker vapour clouds and provides a smoother experience. Choosing high-quality e-liquids from reputable manufacturers is essential to ensure purity and avoid potential health risks.

Increased Nicotine Intake: Sub-ohm vaping can deliver nicotine more efficiently due to the larger vapour produced. Beginners should be cautious with their nicotine strength selection, as sub-ohm vaping may produce a more potent nicotine hit. It's advisable to start with lower nicotine levels and gradually adjust to avoid nicotine overdose or discomfort.

If sub-Ohm tanks, with their disposable coils and massive e-liquid capacity, seem too tame, how about tinkering with a rebuildable atomiser?

Rebuildable Dripping Atomizers (RDA’s):

Rebuildable Dripping Atomizers (RDA’s) evolved from homemade set-ups created by vaping old-timers. Even so, there’s still a thriving community of dedicated drippers who believe this is the way to go for the best clouds and flavours. The design is very similar to the atomiser in a sub-Ohm tank. Most RDAs are round metallic cups with electrical connectors for your self-made (or shop-bought) coils. The coils are fed by wicks – usually made from organic cotton. Before vaping, the e-juice has to be dripped onto the coils and wicks. The wicks must be continuously topped with more juice during each vaping session.

Rebuildable Tank Atomizers (RTA's):

Rebuildable Tank Atomizers (RTA's) have a slightly different design to overcome the hassle of regular dripping. An RTA's coil and connector deck are almost identical to those of an RDA. The wicking material draws e-liquid directly from the tank, so you can carry on vaping if there’s e-juice in your tank.

At this point, we need to say a few words of warning. RDAs and RTAs require a certain level of skill and knowledge. Firing a dodgy self-built coil in a rebuildable atomiser can damage equipment, cause burns, or even explode the battery.

Is Sub-Ohm Vaping Right For Me?

While we don’t want to spoil the party, it’s probably worth checking if sub-Ohm vaping is your thing.

Here are some of the cons:

Sub-Ohming is likely to increase your weekly vaping budget. Big clouds need a lot more e-liquid.
Big vapour clouds may be fun but will put you in the public eye. This can cause unnecessary hassle in public places and lead to grief at work.

What’s Your Vaping Style?

Cloud chasing usually involves a direct lung inhale (DLI) style. If you’ve recently switched to vaping from traditional (analogue) cigarettes, you may be more comfortable with mouth-to-lung (MTL) vaping. If you switch to DLI, you may need to drop your e-liquid nicotine level to 6mg or lower.

Sub-Ohm Vaping Points To Consider

There is a lot to recommend for a sub-ohm vaping setup. These points are important and should be considered if you are looking to give sub-ohm vaping a try for yourself. Remember to get professional advice if you need more clarification.

If sub-ohm is for you, it's wise to have spare batteries (1600mah e-cigarette batteries are often recommended for sub-ohm devices) and monitor your battery usage closely. When vaping this way, watch how hot your battery is getting. Switching your e-cigarette off is best to cool down if it gets too hot.

Sub Ohm Accelerated E Liquid Usage
Also, keep an eye on your e-liquid stocks. Again, as your cheap e-liquid will be heated higher than normal, you will get through it quicker. Watch out for dry vaping! No one wants a mouthful of dry or burnt coil-tasting vapour. Ensure your tank has enough e-liquid and monitor how fast it goes down. Thankfully, we have a wide range of high-VG e-liquid flavours at great prices.

Building A Sub-Ohm E-Cigarette

To build a sub-ohm device, you need to have a really good understanding of how e-cigarettes are powered, ohms, resistance, and so on. If you don’t, buy a kit that is ready to go or do your research. Otherwise, you could easily overload the battery, which can cause problems that can be harmful to you.

E Liquid For Sub-Ohm E Cigarettes

High VG e-liquids are generally considered the best for use in sub-ohm e-cigarette devices. High VG juice naturally offers a higher vapour level than those with more PG. They also offer a smoother vape.

This is amplified via sub-ohm vaping. Remember the above points about nicotine strengths (no more than 6mg when using < 1.0-ohm coils) and that you will go through e-liquids quicker when vaping this way when making your choice. Thankfully, we have plenty of e-liquids right here that fit the bill and are affordable enough to use in sub om vaping.

Proper maintenance and care of sub-ohm vape tanks and devices are essential to ensure optimal performance, longevity, and, most importantly, a safe vaping experience. Regular maintenance routines can help prevent leaks, flavour loss, and reduced vapour production.

Cleaning:

Cleaning your sub-ohm vape tank regularly is crucial to maintain flavour quality and prevent residue buildup. Disassemble the tank carefully and rinse the components, except for the coil, under warm running water. Use a mild detergent and a soft brush to scrub the tank parts gently. Rinse thoroughly and leave them to air dry before reassembly. For the coil, gently remove any excess e-liquid by tapping it against tissue or cloth. Avoid using water on the coil as it may damage the wicking material.

Coil Replacement:

Coils are the heart of sub-ohm devices and must be replaced periodically for optimal performance. Signs of a worn-out coil include muted flavours, burnt taste, and reduced vapour production. To replace the coil, empty the e-liquid tank, unscrew the old one and screw in a new one. Prime the new coil by adding a few drops of e-liquid directly onto the exposed cotton wick. Allow the coil to sit for a few minutes to ensure proper saturation before using it.

Battery Care:

Taking care of the battery is essential for both safety and performance. Regularly inspect the battery for any signs of damage, such as dents or tears in the wrap. If any damage is detected, replacing the battery immediately is crucial. Clean the battery contacts with a soft cloth or cotton swab to remove dirt or e-liquid residue. Ensure that the battery is charged using a compatible charger and avoid overcharging or leaving it unattended while charging.

General Upkeep:

Aside from regular cleaning and coil replacement, there are a few general maintenance practices to remember. Store your sub-ohm device in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or excessive humidity. Check the O-rings periodically for any signs of wear or damage, as they prevent leaks. Keep an eye on the e-liquid level to avoid running the tank dry, which can lead to a burnt taste or damage to the coil.

Modern vaping equipment is safer than it’s ever been. Knowledge is power, so keep yourself safe by visiting Reddit forums and watching YouTube vape videos.

The basic electrical theory will explain why your mod batteries must be the right way around. A little more research into Ohm’s law will help you understand how voltage, resistance, and current make your coils glow.

Batteries are the most dangerous components in your vape set-up. Stay safe by choosing a battery that feeds Amps to your sub-Ohm coils. The Efest 18650 35A 3000 mAh is a great example.

These days, regulated mods are packed with safety features. Automated computer control handles short circuit protection, overvoltage and safety shutdown features. Even inexpensive mods like the IPV D2 75W TC and Kanger KBox 200W now have amazing features for safe, sub-Ohm vaping at high power levels.

Unregulated mechanical mods in combination with sub-Ohm tanks are potentially less safe. Good research and expert advice are vital if you’re a newbie planning this route. The most basic rules are a) to make sure that you vape with a vented mod and b) avoid sub-Ohming with a hybrid mech mod.

Is Sub-Ohming A Passing Trend?

Over recent years, vaping store shelves have been groaning under the weight of new sub-Ohm tanks and high-wattage box mods. It looks like sub-Ohming is here to stay!

This doesn’t mean you must relegate an old mod to a dusty drawer. How about investing in a basic sub-Ohm tank? The interchangeable coils in modern sub-Ohm tanks like the Kanger Subtank Mini make slipping in a 1.2 Ohm coil and vaping with a lower-powered mod or battery easy. A basic mod with a 12 to 25 Watts power output will still chuck respectable clouds and deliver sensational flavours.

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Whether you prefer disposable vapes, MTL, DTL or sub-ohm vaping, knowing how to get the most out of your preferred vaping style is key to enjoying your journey. At Go Smoke Free, we have everything you need to satisfy your chosen vaping technique, as well as a wealth of knowledge and experience to help you make an informed choice. Until then, happy vaping!