Published August 8, 2017
PG vs VG: What Every Vaper Should Know About E-Liquid Ingredients
If you have ever looked at a bottle of vape juice and noticed a ratio like 70/30 or 50/50 on the label, those numbers refer to the two base ingredients in every e-liquid: propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerin (VG). Understanding what PG and VG do, and how their ratio affects your vaping experience, is one of the most useful things you can learn as a vaper. It helps you pick the right juice for your device, get the flavour and vapour production you want, and avoid common issues like dry hits or leaking.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about PG, VG, and VG/PG ratios so you can make informed choices when shopping for e-liquid in Canada.
What Is Propylene Glycol (PG)?
Propylene glycol is a thin, odourless, slightly sweet synthetic liquid. It is widely used in food products, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. In e-liquid, PG serves as a flavour carrier and produces a noticeable throat hit, which is the slight sensation at the back of your throat that mimics the feeling of smoking a traditional cigarette.
Key characteristics of PG in vape juice:
- Stronger throat hit — PG delivers a more pronounced throat sensation, which many former smokers prefer.
- Better flavour delivery — Because PG is thinner and carries flavour more effectively, higher-PG juices tend to taste sharper and more defined.
- Less vapour production — PG produces thinner, less visible clouds compared to VG.
- Thinner consistency — PG-heavy liquids wick faster and work well in smaller, lower-powered devices.
What Is Vegetable Glycerin (VG)?
Vegetable glycerin is a thick, slightly sweet liquid derived from plant oils (typically soy, coconut, or palm). Like PG, it is used extensively in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical products. In e-liquid, VG is primarily responsible for vapour production and contributes a smooth, slightly sweet mouthfeel.
Key characteristics of VG in vape juice:
- Bigger, denser clouds — VG is the ingredient behind thick, satisfying vapour production.
- Smoother inhale — Higher-VG juices feel softer on the throat, which some vapers prefer.
- Slightly muted flavour — VG does not carry flavour as efficiently as PG, so very high-VG juices may taste a bit less crisp.
- Thicker consistency — VG-heavy liquids are more viscous, which means they wick more slowly and can cause issues in devices with small wicking ports.
PG vs VG: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Property | Propylene Glycol (PG) | Vegetable Glycerin (VG) |
|---|---|---|
| Throat Hit | Strong, noticeable | Smooth, minimal |
| Flavour | Sharper, more defined | Slightly muted, sweeter |
| Vapour Production | Thin, less visible | Thick, dense clouds |
| Consistency | Thin, watery | Thick, viscous |
| Wicking Speed | Fast — works in any device | Slow — needs larger wicking ports |
| Best For | Pod systems, MTL devices | Sub-ohm tanks, box mods, DTL |
| Coil Buildup | Less residue | More residue (sweetener dependent) |
Common VG/PG Ratios Explained
Most e-liquids use a blend of both VG and PG rather than one or the other exclusively. The ratio is typically written as VG/PG (for example, 70VG/30PG). Here are the most common ratios you will see when browsing freebase e-liquids and salt nic juices at NYX Vape:
50/50 (50% VG / 50% PG)
The balanced all-rounder. A 50/50 ratio delivers a good mix of flavour clarity, moderate throat hit, and decent vapour production. This is the most common ratio for salt nicotine e-liquids because it wicks efficiently in low-powered pod systems and pairs well with higher nicotine concentrations. If you use a device like the Uwell Caliburn, Vaporesso XROS, or SMOK Nord, a 50/50 juice is usually your best match.
60/40 (60% VG / 40% PG)
Slightly more vapour than 50/50 while still maintaining strong flavour. This ratio works well in both pod systems and lower-wattage sub-ohm setups. It is a good middle ground if you want a bit more cloud without sacrificing too much throat hit.
70/30 (70% VG / 30% PG)
The most popular ratio for freebase e-liquids and sub-ohm vaping. A 70/30 blend produces noticeably thicker clouds with good flavour, while still providing enough PG for a mild throat sensation. This ratio works best in sub-ohm tanks and box mods that operate at higher wattages with larger coils.
80/20 (80% VG / 20% PG) and Max VG
High-VG blends are designed for maximum cloud production and an exceptionally smooth inhale. The flavour may be slightly softer than a 70/30, but the vapour density is significantly greater. These ratios require devices with large wicking ports and higher power output. They are not recommended for standard pod systems, as the thick liquid can struggle to wick fast enough and cause dry hits or burnt coils.
Which Ratio Works with Your Device?
Choosing the right VG/PG ratio depends largely on the type of device you use. Here is a general guide:
| Device Type | Recommended VG/PG Ratio | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Open Pod Systems (Caliburn, XROS, Nord, etc.) | 50/50 or 60/40 | Small coils and wicking ports need thinner liquid. Higher PG also delivers the throat hit that complements salt nic. |
| Closed Pod Systems (STLTH, STLTH Loop, etc.) | Pre-filled (typically 50/50) | Pods come pre-filled, so the ratio is set by the manufacturer. Most closed pods use a balanced 50/50 blend. |
| Sub-Ohm Tanks | 70/30 or 80/20 | Larger coils and airflow handle thicker VG easily. Higher VG means bigger clouds and smoother hits at higher wattages. |
| Box Mods (with sub-ohm tank or RDA) | 70/30 to Max VG | High-powered devices are built for thick liquids. More VG takes full advantage of the extra wattage and airflow. |
| Starter Kits | 50/50 or 60/40 | Most starter kits are designed for beginners transitioning from cigarettes, so a balanced ratio with clear flavour and moderate throat hit works best. |
Using the wrong ratio for your device is one of the most common causes of problems like dry hits, flooding, or burnt coils. If you are unsure which ratio suits your setup, our Open Pod System Guide and Vape Pods Buyer's Guide cover device-specific recommendations in detail.
PG/VG and Nicotine Type: Salt Nic vs Freebase
The VG/PG ratio of your e-liquid is closely tied to the type of nicotine it contains. Understanding this connection helps explain why certain juices pair better with certain devices.
Salt nicotine e-liquids (commonly 10mg and 20mg in Canada) almost always use a 50/50 or 60/40 ratio. Salt nic is designed for low-powered pod systems where a thinner liquid wicks properly through small coils. The higher PG content also enhances the throat hit that salt nic is known for at lower wattages. Browse NYX Salt Nic for examples.
Freebase nicotine e-liquids (commonly 3mg and 6mg) typically use a 70/30 or higher VG ratio. Freebase nic is vaped at higher wattages in sub-ohm devices where the thicker VG produces dense clouds and smooth flavour. The lower nicotine concentration means less throat hit is needed from PG. Explore the full range of freebase e-liquids at NYX Vape.
For a deeper comparison of these two nicotine types, read our guide: Freebase vs Salt Nic: What's the Difference?
PG Sensitivity: What to Know
A small number of vapers experience sensitivity to propylene glycol. Symptoms can include a dry or scratchy throat, mild skin irritation, or an unusually harsh vaping experience even at low nicotine levels. If you suspect PG sensitivity, consider the following steps:
- Switch to a higher VG ratio — Moving from 50/50 to 70/30 or 80/20 significantly reduces PG intake. You may need to switch to a device that handles thicker liquids, such as a sub-ohm tank.
- Try Max VG e-liquids — Some brands offer e-liquids with minimal PG content. These are the gentlest option for sensitive vapers.
- Rule out other causes — Dehydration, high nicotine levels, or worn-out coils can mimic PG sensitivity symptoms. Make sure you are staying hydrated and replacing your coils regularly.
True PG allergies are rare, but if symptoms persist after switching to high-VG liquids, consult a healthcare professional.
How to Choose the Right VG/PG Ratio
Not sure where to start? Use this quick decision guide:
- You want maximum flavour and throat hit → Choose 50/50 with salt nic in an open pod system.
- You want big clouds and smooth hits → Choose 70/30 or 80/20 with freebase nic in a sub-ohm tank or box mod.
- You want a balanced experience → Choose 60/40, which works in most pod systems and some lower-wattage sub-ohm setups.
- You are new to vaping → Start with 50/50 salt nic in a starter kit. It is the simplest setup and closely mimics the cigarette experience. See our nicotine strength guide for help picking the right level.
- You are sensitive to PG → Choose 70/30 or higher VG and use a device designed for thicker liquids.
Does VG/PG Ratio Affect Coil Life?
Yes. Higher VG e-liquids are thicker, which means they leave more residue on your coils over time. However, the biggest factor in coil longevity is sweetener content in the e-liquid, not the VG/PG ratio itself. A heavily sweetened 50/50 juice will burn through coils faster than a lightly sweetened 80/20 juice.
That said, using a high-VG liquid in a device designed for thinner juice (like running 80/20 in a small pod system) will cause wicking problems and premature coil failure. Always match your ratio to your device to get the longest coil life possible. For coil maintenance tips, check out our Vape Juice & E-Liquid Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PG or VG better for flavour?
PG is the better flavour carrier. It delivers sharper, more defined taste because it is thinner and does not add sweetness the way VG does. However, many vapers find that a 70/30 VG/PG blend offers an excellent balance of flavour and vapour, especially at higher wattages where heat intensifies the flavour from the VG component as well.
Can I mix different VG/PG ratios together?
Yes, mixing two e-liquids with different ratios is safe and will produce a blended ratio between the two. For example, mixing equal parts of a 50/50 and a 70/30 gives you roughly a 60/40 blend. Just make sure both liquids use the same nicotine type (both salt nic or both freebase).
Why does my vape juice taste harsh?
Harshness is usually caused by high PG content, high nicotine concentration, or a worn-out coil. If your juice is 50/50 or higher PG and the throat hit feels too strong, try switching to a 60/40 or 70/30 blend. Also check that your nicotine strength is appropriate for your device type.
Is 50/50 or 70/30 better for pod systems?
For most open pod systems, 50/50 is the safest choice because the thinner consistency wicks reliably in small coils. Some newer pod devices with adjustable wattage (like the Uwell Caliburn G5 or VooPoo Drag S3) can handle 60/40 without issues. Avoid using 70/30 or higher in standard pods unless the manufacturer specifically recommends it.
What ratio do disposable vapes use?
Disposable vapes are pre-filled, so you cannot choose the ratio. Most disposables use a 50/50 blend with salt nicotine, which provides good flavour and a satisfying throat hit from the built-in coil.
Does VG/PG ratio affect nicotine absorption?
The ratio has a minor effect. Higher PG liquids tend to deliver nicotine slightly faster because PG is thinner and produces a more pronounced throat sensation. However, the type of nicotine (salt vs freebase) and the concentration (mg/mL) have a much larger impact on nicotine absorption than the VG/PG ratio alone.
Can I use high-VG juice in any device?
No. High-VG e-liquids (70/30 and above) are too thick for most standard pod systems and MTL (mouth-to-lung) devices. Using them in the wrong device leads to dry hits, poor wicking, and shortened coil life. High-VG juices work best in sub-ohm tanks, box mods, and RDAs that have large wicking channels and higher power output.
What does "Max VG" mean on a label?
Max VG means the e-liquid contains as much vegetable glycerin as possible, with only the minimum amount of PG needed to dissolve the flavour concentrates. In practice, Max VG usually works out to around 80-90% VG. These juices produce the thickest clouds and smoothest inhale but require a sub-ohm device to perform properly.
Find Your Perfect E-Liquid at NYX Vape
Now that you understand how PG and VG affect your vaping experience, you can shop with confidence. Browse our full selection of freebase e-liquids (mostly 70/30) and salt nic juices (mostly 50/50) to find the flavours and ratios that suit your setup. If you need help choosing a device, explore our open pod systems, sub-ohm tanks, and starter kits.
For more guides on getting the most from your vape, check out these resources:
- Vape Juice & E-Liquid Guide Canada
- Freebase vs Salt Nic: What's the Difference?
- How to Choose the Right Nicotine Strength
- Best Vape Juice Flavours in Canada
- Open Pod System Guide Canada
Visit us in-store at our Oshawa, Courtice, or Scarborough locations for personalized recommendations, or shop online at nyxecigs.com with free shipping on orders over $50.
