As someone who's been vaping for a while now, I’ve had my fair share of trial and error when it comes to finding the right e-liquid for my needs. One of the biggest factors that impact your vaping experience is the ratio of Propylene Glycol (PG) to Vegetable Glycerin (VG) in your e-liquid. It may sound complicated at first, but understanding these two ingredients and how they affect your vape can make a world of difference in your overall experience.

In this post, I’m going to break down what PG and VG are, how they affect your vape, and help you choose the right ratio based on your personal preferences. Whether you’re a newbie or an experienced vaper, this information will guide you toward the perfect e-liquid mix for your next session.

What is PG and VG?

Before we dive into the ratios, let’s quickly go over what PG and VG are, and what they do in your e-liquid. Both are base liquids used in all e-liquids, but they serve different purposes, which affects the overall vaping experience.

Propylene Glycol (PG)

PG is a thin, odorless liquid that’s commonly used in e-liquids for its ability to deliver a stronger throat hit, similar to the sensation you get when smoking a cigarette. It also helps carry the flavor of your e-liquid more effectively. This is why you’ll often find that fruity or dessert-based e-liquids taste sharper or more pronounced with a higher PG content.

PG is also known for producing less vapor than VG, which can be a consideration if you’re someone who enjoys large clouds.

Vegetable Glycerin (VG)

VG, on the other hand, is a thicker, sweeter liquid. It’s responsible for producing the thick clouds of vapor that many vapers love. VG has a slightly sweeter taste and is less harsh on the throat, making it more appealing to those who prefer smoother, more enjoyable hits.

Because VG is thicker, it’s not as good at carrying flavor as PG, which is why higher VG e-liquids sometimes feel a little less flavorful. However, it makes up for this by creating huge, dense clouds of vapor.

Choosing the Right Ratio for You

Now that we know what PG and VG are, it’s time to talk about how to choose the right ratio for your vaping style. Generally, e-liquids come in a variety of PG/VG ratios, ranging from 50/50 to 30/70 or even 20/80, depending on the brand and product. The ratio you choose should depend on your preferences for flavor, throat hit, and vapor production.

The 50/50 Mix: Balanced Flavor and Vapor

A 50/50 PG/VG ratio is considered the "middle ground" and is often the most popular choice for a wide range of vapers. With this ratio, you get a balanced experience: enough throat hit from the PG and a decent amount of vapor from the VG. This ratio is especially great for beginners who want to try vaping without committing to either extreme.

For instance, when I tried a Butter Scotch custard monster with a 50/50 ratio, I found the balance of smooth clouds and rich flavor was perfect for my taste. I wasn’t overwhelmed with vapor, but the flavor was still strong enough to keep me satisfied.

• Best for: New vapers, people who want a balanced experience
  
  

• Flavor: Moderate flavor intensity
  
  

• Vapor: Moderate cloud production
  
  

The High PG Mix: For Strong Flavor and Throat Hit

If you’re someone who enjoys a strong throat hit, similar to what you get from smoking, a higher PG ratio might be the way to go. PG delivers a more intense throat hit and carries flavor much more effectively, which is why you’ll often find that e-liquids with higher PG ratios are more flavorful.

Personally, I’ve always been a fan of e-liquids like custard monster e liquid when I want something rich and sharp. The higher PG content really makes the flavor stand out. However, it’s important to note that higher PG can also be harsher on your throat, so it’s not for everyone.

• Best for: Smokers transitioning to vaping, flavor lovers
  
  

• Flavor: Strong flavor profile
  
  

• Vapor: Less vapor production, but more throat hit
  
  

The High VG Mix: For Big Clouds and Smooth Hits

For vapers who love big, dense clouds of vapor, a high VG mix is the way to go. VG is known for producing huge clouds, and the higher the VG ratio, the bigger the clouds. It’s perfect for cloud chasers and those who want a smoother, less harsh experience.

When I vape something like custard monster, I prefer a higher VG content because I’m more about smooth, thick clouds than a strong throat hit. It’s the ideal choice for those who enjoy sub-ohm tanks and mods, which are designed to handle higher VG e-liquids.

• Best for: Cloud chasers, smooth vapers, those with sub-ohm tanks
  
  

• Flavor: Softer flavor, though still noticeable
  
  

• Vapor: Huge clouds with less throat hit
  
  

What to Consider When Choosing Your Ratio

Now that you know what each ratio offers, here are a few things to think about when choosing the right e-liquid ratio for you:

1. Your Vaping Device

• If you’re using a pod system or mouth-to-lung device, a higher PG ratio (like 50/50) is usually a better fit. These devices tend to work better with thinner liquids, which ensures better coil performance and flavor.
  
  

• For sub-ohm tanks or direct-to-lung (DTL) devices, you’ll want a higher VG content for the big vapor clouds and smooth hits. These devices can handle thicker liquids better, and you’ll get the most out of your vaping experience with higher VG.
  
  

2. Your Preference for Throat Hit vs. Vapor Production

• If you’re someone who loves that throat hit, you’ll want a higher PG ratio. It’ll give you the sensation similar to smoking, which can make the transition from cigarettes to vaping smoother.
  
  

• If cloud production and a smoother hit are more important to you, then go for a higher VG ratio. This will give you the vapor production you crave and a much gentler experience on the throat.
  
  

3. The Flavor Profile

• For those who want a more intense, flavorful experience, a higher PG ratio tends to bring out the best in e-liquid flavors. For example, custard monster e liquid with a higher PG ratio has that perfect balance of flavor and throat hit.
  
  

• If flavor isn’t your top priority and you’re more focused on cloud chasing, then the thicker VG liquids will still provide a satisfying vaping experience, though the flavor may be a bit subtler.
  
  

The Right Ratio for Your Next Vape Session

When it comes down to it, the right PG/VG ratio is all about personal preference. Some vapers enjoy a balanced experience with a 50/50 mix, while others swear by higher PG or VG for different reasons. Whether you’re looking for something that offers a smooth hit and rich flavor, like a Butter Scotch custard monster, or something that provides big clouds and subtle flavor, like a custard monster, it’s all about finding the right balance.

To wrap it up, consider what matters most to you in your vape experience. Whether you’re new to vaping or a seasoned pro, understanding PG vs VG and how it affects your e-liquid can make all the difference. Finding the right ratio can lead to a more enjoyable, personalized vaping experience that’s just right for you.