VG and PG - what's the difference?!

Vaping terminology can be kind of confusing, even to the most seasoned of vapers, and no two terms create more confusion than VG and PG. We know it’s hard to get your head round, but knowing the difference is really going to improve your vaping experience, so we’ve made this handy guide to explain:

VG and PG: Definitions

VG = Vegetable Glycerin

Vegetable Glycerin is derived from vegetable oils, and is often used in medical, food and personal care products, such as:

• Make up
• Soap and hand cream
• Artificial sweeteners

PG= Propylene Glycol

Propylene Glycol is a bi-product of petroleum and is often used in:

• Toothpaste
• Shampoo
• inhalers

VG and PG: The Differences

Flavour

There isn’t really any bigger consideration when choosing an e-liquid product – everyone has different tastes in e-liquid, and there is such a range of flavours, but you may not have considered the effects of VG vs PG e-liquids on flavour:

VG: The natural sweetness of vegetable glycerin can dilute the flavours of your e-liquid, which may affect the depth of flavour – not ideal if you’re using an e-liquid with a complex flavour profile!

PG: Propylene Glycol is tasteless and odourless, so it doesn’t change the taste of the e-liquid at all, so you can fully enjoy the distinct, original flavour profile of your e-liquid.

Consistency

An e-liquid’s consistency determines how quickly it is absorbed by the coil in your e-cigarette, and therefore the time required between filling up and vaping. Thicker consistency e-liquids will also cause a bigger residue build-up, meaning you will have to clean your vape more often.

VG: Vegetable Glycerin has a thick consistency, which causes more build up, and needs more time to soak into the coil before vaping.

PG: Propylene Glycol has a thin consistency, which causes less build-up, and is more easily absorbed into your coil.

Throat Hit

Which type you choose, VG or PG, will also depend on the level of throat hit you prefer, and everyone is different! Often, ex-smokers like a stronger throat hit that mimics that of an actual cigarette, but for some that can be too intense.

VG: Vegetable Glycerin gives you a weaker throat hit and is great for more regular vapers who like a smoother sensation.

PG: Propylene Glycol gives you a stronger throat hit, which has a tendency to dry out the throat if used excessively, but is perfect for that authentic cigarette-like feel.

Cloud Production

You may or may not look for high cloud production from your vape, it depends on your personal preference, and depending on your taste either VG or PG may suit you better.

VG: The thicker consistency of Vegetable Glycerin means it will produce more vapour, making it perfect for sub-ohm vaping and even for vape tricks like blowing rings.

PG: Propylene Glycol has a thinner consistency, and produces less vapour, which is better for indoor vapers and those looking for that authentic smoking feel.

As you can see, when it comes to it, the differences between VG and PG are quite straightforward, and which one you choose will depend entirely on your own vaping style. We hope you’ve found this little guide helpful for deciding which e-liquids are the best fit for your vape life!