Nic salt and freebase are the two main types of nicotine e-liquid sold in the UK. Both come in 10ml bottles with a maximum nicotine strength of 20mg/ml, but they behave differently and suit different devices.
What is freebase e-liquid?
Freebase is the original form of nicotine used in e-liquids. At higher strengths it gives a stronger throat hit, so freebase is commonly used at 3mg to 18mg. It is often mixed in a 50/50 VG/PG ratio for mouth-to-lung (MTL) kits, or in higher-VG blends at low strengths for sub-ohm devices.
What is nic salt?
Nicotine salt (nic salt) e-liquid combines nicotine with a mild acid, which makes it smoother to inhale at higher strengths. Nic salts are usually sold in 10mg and 20mg strengths and are designed for low-powered pod kits with higher-resistance coils (typically 0.8 ohm and above).
Key differences
| Freebase | Nic salt | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical strengths | 3mg, 6mg, 12mg, 18mg | 10mg, 20mg |
| Throat hit at high strength | Stronger | Smoother |
| Best device type | MTL starter kits; sub-ohm kits at low strength | Pod kits and MTL devices |
| Not suitable for | — | High-powered sub-ohm devices |
Which should I choose?
If you use a compact pod kit, a nic salt is usually the better match. If you use a starter kit with a tank, or want more strength options, try a 10ml freebase. For high-powered sub-ohm devices, use low-nicotine, high-VG liquids such as shortfills with a nic shot. Never use high-strength nic salts in a sub-ohm device.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use nic salt in any vape?
Nic salts are intended for low-wattage devices. Check your device's recommended wattage and coil resistance before using them.
Is 20mg the maximum strength in the UK?
Yes. Under the Tobacco and Related Products Regulations 2016, nicotine-containing e-liquid sold in the UK cannot exceed 20mg/ml and must be sold in bottles of no more than 10ml.
Vaping products contain nicotine, which is highly addictive. Not for sale to anyone under 18.