What do VG and PG mean in e-liquid?

VG (Vegetable Glycerin) and PG (Propylene Glycol) are the two base carrier liquids in e-liquid. VG produces more vapor and gives a smoother draw; PG carries flavor more effectively and produces a stronger throat hit.

What VG/PG ratio is best for pod systems?

Pod systems and MTL devices work best with higher-PG ratios (50/50 to 70VG/30PG). The thinner viscosity wicks efficiently in small coils. High-VG liquids (80VG+) are too thick for most pod wicking systems.

Can high-VG e-liquid damage my coil?

High-VG e-liquid in an underpowered or MTL device can cause dry hits because thick liquid does not wick quickly enough. Use the VG/PG ratio recommended for your coil's wicking speed.

VG/PG Ratios in E-Liquid Explained

Every e-liquid is made with two base liquids: Vegetable Glycerin (VG) and Propylene Glycol (PG). The ratio between them affects vapor production, throat feel, flavor delivery, and device compatibility.

What VG Does

VG is a thick, slightly sweet liquid derived from plant oils. A higher VG percentage produces denser vapor clouds and a smoother draw. It is less effective at carrying flavor molecules compared to PG.

What PG Does

PG is a thinner, odorless liquid widely used in food and pharmaceutical products. It carries flavor more efficiently and produces a noticeable throat sensation. PG-heavy e-liquids are common in MTL and pod setups where flavor and draw tightness are the priority over vapor volume.

Common Ratios and Their Use Cases

Ratio (VG/PG)	Vapor	Throat	Best for
50/50	Moderate	Noticeable	Pod systems, MTL
70/30	Good	Mild	Pod systems, MTL/DTL hybrid
80/20	High	Smooth	Sub-ohm tanks, DTL
Max VG	Very high	Very smooth	RDA/RTA, high-wattage DTL

Wicking and Device Considerations

High-VG e-liquids are thick and require coils and wicking material capable of handling the viscosity. Pod systems with small coil heads can struggle to wick 80VG+ liquids fast enough, causing dry hits or premature coil burnout. If you're running a pod device, look for 50/50 or 70/30 ratios.

Sub-ohm tanks with wide wicking ports handle high-VG liquids well and are designed for the vapor volumes these ratios produce.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What do VG and PG mean in e-liquid?: VG (Vegetable Glycerin) and PG (Propylene Glycol) are the two base carrier liquids in e-liquid. VG produces more vapor and gives a smoother draw; PG carries flavor more effectively and produces a stronger throat hit.
What VG/PG ratio is best for pod systems?: Pod systems and MTL devices work best with higher-PG ratios (50/50 to 70VG/30PG). The thinner viscosity wicks efficiently in small coils. High-VG liquids (80VG+) are too thick for most pod wicking systems.
Can high-VG e-liquid damage my coil?: High-VG e-liquid in an underpowered or MTL device can cause dry hits because thick liquid does not wick quickly enough. Use the VG/PG ratio recommended for your coil's wicking speed.