The Science Behind PG/VG Ratios Explained

PG (Propylene Glycol) and VG (Vegetable Glycerin) are the two base ingredients in every e-liquid or vape juice, alongside nicotine and flavourings. Different e-liquids contain different concentrations of each, and that ratio affects everything from cloud size to throat hit to flavour intensity.

Here’s something you might not know: both PG and VG are already in many of the foods, drinks, and medicines you use every day. They’re food-grade additives with a long safety record. But when it comes to vaping, they behave very differently, and understanding what each one does will help you choose the right e-liquid for your style.

Note: Vaping regulations, product availability, and health research evolve regularly. Always verify current information and consult with professionals when making health-related decisions.

VG (Vegetable Glycerin) in Vapes

VG is the ingredient responsible for those thick, billowing clouds vapers love. It’s a natural compound derived from vegetable oils, and it has a slightly sweet taste that can soften the overall flavour of your e-liquid.

Because VG is thicker than PG, it produces a smoother inhale with less throat hit. This makes it popular with cloud chasers and direct-to-lung vapers who prioritise vapour production over intense flavour. The sweetness of VG can also complement dessert and fruit flavours particularly well.

One thing to keep in mind: that thickness means VG-heavy liquids can be harder on coils that aren’t designed for them. More on device compatibility later.

VG Technical Details

Property	Details
Chemical Nature	Natural organic glycerol made from vegetable oil
Common Sources	Palm oil, soy oil, or coconut oil
Physical Properties	Clear, odourless liquid with a slightly sweet taste
Regulatory Status	Recognised as safe for food and pharmaceutical use by the FDA and other regulatory bodies. Used to sweeten, moisten, and preserve foods, as well as in soap and cosmetics production. Note that safety assessments for ingestion may differ from those for inhalation.
Device Consideration	Thicker consistency can shorten coil lifespan on devices not specifically designed for high-VG liquids, depending on your coil type and wattage settings.

PG (Propylene Glycol) in Vapes

PG is thinner than VG and serves a completely different purpose in your e-liquid. While it’s nearly tasteless on its own, PG is excellent at carrying flavour, which is why high-PG liquids tend to taste more vibrant and intense.

PG also produces a stronger throat hit, that satisfying catch at the back of your throat that mimics the sensation of smoking. This makes high-PG e-liquids a common choice for people transitioning from cigarettes, especially when paired with tobacco flavours.

Because PG is thinner, it wicks more efficiently and is less likely to gunk up your coils, which can mean longer coil life compared to VG-heavy alternatives.

PG Technical Details

Property	Details
Chemical Formula	C3H8O2, a synthetic organic compound
Physical Properties	Viscous, colourless liquid, nearly odourless with a faintly sweet taste
Regulatory Status	Recognised as safe for food and pharmaceutical use by the FDA and other regulatory bodies. Commonly used in food additives, medicines, and personal care products. As with VG, safety assessments for ingestion may differ from those for inhalation.
Device Benefit	Thin consistency means efficient wicking and less buildup on coils, reducing the risk of dry hits and potentially extending device lifespan.

Understanding the PG/VG Ratio

The PG/VG ratio indicates the proportions of each base ingredient in your e-liquid. A 70/30 VG/PG ratio means 70% Vegetable Glycerin and 30% Propylene Glycol. Selecting the right one depends on your priorities and your device.

Finding Your Ideal Balance

There’s no universally “best” ratio. Many vapers start with a 50/50 blend and adjust from there. The breakdown of popular ratios below will help you decide where to start.

Matching Your PG/VG Ratio to Your Device

Not every e-liquid works well in every device. The thickness of your liquid needs to match your device’s wicking system and coil design, or you’ll run into problems like dry hits, flooding, or muted flavour.

Higher PG E-Liquids Work Best With

Device Type	Why It Works
Smaller, lower-powered devices	Thinner liquid wicks efficiently at lower wattages
Higher-ohm coils (above 1.0 ohm)	Designed for thinner liquids and MTL vaping
Pod systems and starter kits	Small wicking holes handle PG better than thick VG

Higher VG E-Liquids Work Best With

Device Type	Why It Works
Sub-ohm devices (below 1.0 ohm)	Higher power vaporises thick liquid efficiently
Advanced mods with higher wattage	More power handles VG’s viscosity
Tanks and RDAs with larger wicking holes	Allows thick liquid to flow without starving the coil

If you’re unsure about your device, check the manufacturer’s recommendations or ask at your local vape shop.

Popular PG/VG Ratios Explained

With so many options available, it helps to understand what each common ratio offers. Here’s a breakdown to help you find your starting point.

50/50 – The Balanced Blend

Aspect	What to Expect
Versatility	Works with most vaping devices
Throat Hit	Moderate, noticeable sensation
Vapour	Moderate cloud production
Flavour	Full flavour delivery without muting
Best For	Beginners, new vapers, low-power devices, pod systems, and anyone who wants a bit of everything

70/30 VG/PG – The Popular Middle Ground

Aspect	What to Expect
Versatility	Compatible with a wide range of devices, especially sub-ohm setups
Throat Hit	Smooth with just a hint of sensation
Vapour	Impressive cloud production without sacrificing too much flavour
Best For	Vapers who want good clouds and good flavour without going to extremes

80/20 VG/PG – For Cloud Chasers

Aspect	What to Expect
Vapour	Thick, dense clouds are ideal for tricks and competitions
Throat Hit	Very mild and smooth
Flavour	VG’s natural sweetness can soften some flavour notes
Best For	Sub-ohm vapers, advanced mods, and anyone who prioritises cloud size

High PG Ratios (70/30 PG/VG or Higher) – For Flavour Seekers

Aspect	What to Expect
Flavour	Bold and vibrant, with every note coming through clearly
Throat Hit	Strong and pronounced
Vapour	Minimal cloud production
Best For	Flavour enthusiasts, higher-ohm devices, MTL setups, ex-smokers

PG/VG Ratios and Nicotine

The ratio you choose also influences how nicotine feels when you vape, and understanding this relationship helps you select the right nicotine strength for your preferences.

How Ratios Affect Nicotine Sensation

High-PG e-liquids deliver a more intense nicotine sensation due to the sharper inhale. High-VG e-liquids feel smoother, so the same nicotine strength will seem milder.

This means you might prefer a lower nicotine strength with high-PG liquids, or a slightly higher strength with high-VG liquids to achieve the same satisfaction.

Nicotine Strength by Vaping Style

Vaping Style	Typical Setup	Recommended Nicotine
Direct-to-Lung (DTL)	High-VG liquids, sub-ohm devices	3-6mg (consumes more liquid per session)
Mouth-to-Lung (MTL)	High-PG liquids, higher-ohm devices	12-18mg (consumes less liquid per session)

Common Nicotine Strengths

Strength	Typically Suited For
18mg	Often preferred by heavy smokers or those new to vaping who need stronger nicotine satisfaction
12mg	Common choice for moderate smokers
3mg to 6mg	Typical for light smokers or experienced vapers who have gradually reduced their intake
0mg	Nicotine-free options for those who enjoy vaping without nicotine

These are general guidelines based on common user preferences. Individual nicotine needs vary significantly based on smoking history, metabolism, device output, and personal preference. Start with a lower strength and adjust based on your experience.

Are PG and VG Safe?

Both PG and VG have long safety records in food and pharmaceutical applications. You encounter them regularly in products like ice cream, soft drinks, medications, and cosmetics.

According to a 2015 report from Public Health England, vaping may be around 95% less harmful than smoking traditional cigarettes. However, research into the long-term effects of vaping is ongoing, and findings may evolve as more studies are completed. If you have concerns about vaping and your health, consult with a healthcare professional.

The Antifreeze Confusion

You may have heard concerns about PG being “used in antifreeze.” Here’s the context: PG is used in non-toxic antifreeze specifically because it’s safe. Its safety profile is why manufacturers choose it as a non-toxic alternative to ethylene glycol in applications where accidental ingestion is a concern, such as in RV plumbing systems.

PG’s presence in antifreeze is a result of its safety, not evidence against it.

Quality Matters

The safety of your e-liquid depends heavily on where it comes from. Reputable manufacturers use pharmaceutical-grade PG and VG and are transparent about their ingredients and manufacturing processes. Cheap, unregulated products may not meet the same standards.

Stick with established brands and licensed retailers like Majestic Vapes to ensure you’re getting quality ingredients.

Allergies and Sensitivities

Some people experience sensitivity to PG, which can cause throat irritation, dry mouth, or coughing. If you notice these symptoms, try switching to a higher-VG e-liquid and see if it helps. True PG allergies are rare but do exist. If you suspect an allergy, stop using PG-containing products and consult a doctor.

Quick Reference – PG vs VG at a Glance

Criteria	High VG (70%+)	High PG (60%+)
Vapour Production	Dense, thick clouds	Subtle, less visible
Throat Hit	Smooth, mild	Sharp, pronounced
Flavour Delivery	Slightly muted, sweet undertone	Bold, vibrant
Best Devices	Sub-ohm, advanced mods	Pod systems, MTL devices
Coil Lifespan	May reduce lifespan on non-VG-rated coils	Generally longer
Nicotine Feel	Milder sensation	Stronger sensation
Stealth Vaping	Not ideal due to visible clouds	Better due to less visible vapour
Ideal For	Cloud chasers, DTL vapers	Flavour seekers, ex-smokers

Conclusion

The PG/VG ratio in your e-liquid shapes your entire vaping experience. Neither ingredient is objectively better. It’s about matching the ratio to your preferences and your device.

If you want big clouds and smooth inhales, lean toward higher VG. If you want bold flavour and a more noticeable throat sensation, go with higher PG. And if you’re not sure, 50/50 is a reliable starting point that works with most devices.

Don’t be afraid to experiment. Many vapers try several ratios before finding their personal favourite, and your preferences may change over time as you explore different devices and flavours.

For quality e-liquids in a full range of PG/VG ratios, browse the selection of premium e-liquids at Majestic Vapes. Our staff can help you find the right match for your setup and style.

Information in this guide reflects current industry knowledge at the time of writing. Product specifications, health research, and regulations change over time. Always check product documentation and local regulations for the most current information.