Understanding PG/VG Ratios: A Beginner's Guide to Flavor & Vapor

By Priya Nair, Quality Assurance | 6 min read

Learn how Propylene Glycol (PG) and Vegetable Glycerin (VG) influence throat sensation, vapor density, and coil wicking speeds across different vape kits.

Every e-liquid formula contains two primary base carrier liquids: Propylene Glycol (PG) and Vegetable Glycerin (VG). Understanding their ratio is essential for matching the right liquid with your specific hardware.

### What is Propylene Glycol (PG)?

PG is a thin, odorless liquid that carries flavorings effectively and produces a familiar throat sensation. Because of its low viscosity, high-PG liquids wick quickly through small cotton ports in low-wattage mouth-to-lung (MTL) pod devices.

### What is Vegetable Glycerin (VG)?

VG is a viscous, naturally sweet vegetable derivative responsible for dense white vapor production. High-VG liquids (70% VG and above) are ideal for higher wattage sub-ohm tanks with large wicking channels.

### Optimal Ratios for Common Devices

- **50% VG / 50% PG**: Perfect for pod systems (0.8Ω - 1.2Ω coils) and nicotine salts, ensuring smooth throat hit and zero dry hits.

- **70% VG / 30% PG**: Ideal for sub-ohm direct-lung devices (0.2Ω - 0.4Ω coils) producing thick clouds with a gentle throat hit.