Nicotine Strengths Explained: How to Choose the Right One When You Switch
⏱ Estimated read time: 7–8 minutes • UK focus
Match your nicotine strength to your current smoking habit, start with nicotine salts for a smoother hit if you’re new to vaping, then step down gradually. UK law caps nicotine at 20 mg/ml in retail e-liquids. If your vape feels too weak or too harsh, you’re likely on the wrong strength.
Choosing the right nicotine level is the difference between “that did nothing” and “that hit like a truck.” This guide makes it simple, with a clear table and flavour picks so you can start in the right zone and adjust from there.
Why nicotine strength matters
- Too low: you’ll crave cigarettes because the vape isn’t satisfying.
- Too high: harsh throat hit, dizziness, or nausea.
- Just right: smooth inhale, cravings handled, no slip-ups.
Quick guide: match strength to your habit
| Your cigarette habit | Suggested nicotine strength | What it feels like |
|---|---|---|
| 1–5 per day or social smoking | 5–10 mg/ml (salts or freebase) | Light, gentle. You may need a few extra puffs at first. |
| 6–15 per day | 10–12 mg/ml (salts preferred) | Balanced. Good for most switchers on pod kits. |
| 16–20 per day | 18–20 mg/ml (salts) | Stronger and smoother than freebase at the same level. |
| 20+ per day | 20 mg/ml (salts) to start, then step down | Maximum legal retail strength in the UK; aim to reduce within weeks. |
If a level feels too strong or too weak after a day or two, move one step up or down.
Nicotine salts vs freebase (plain English)
- Nicotine salts: smoother inhale at higher strengths, quick craving relief, ideal for pod kits and new switchers.
- Freebase nicotine: more throat hit, often used at lower strengths, good for lighter smokers or stepping down.
- Devices: Pod kits and tight draws work best with salts. Big, cloudy devices suit low-strength freebase.
How to reduce strength over time
- Start at the strength that stops cravings and replaces cigarettes fully.
- After 2–4 weeks, drop to the next lower strength.
- If cravings spike, mix half-and-half bottles for a week to land in between, then step down again.
- Watch your triggers — coffee, stress, evenings — and adjust accordingly.
Example flavours at different strengths
Same flavour, different strengths. All available in 5 mg • 10 mg • 20 mg so you can fine-tune your switch.
- Strawberry candy vibe: My Vape Salts – Strawberry Candy (10 ml) — 5 mg / 10 mg / 20 mg
- Fruity & bright: My Vape Salts range — 5 mg / 10 mg / 20 mg (try Pineapple Raspberry, Cherry Berry Blast, Triple Melon, Blueberry Raspberry, Pink Lemonade)
- Classic fresh: My Vape Salts – Menthol (10 ml) — 5 mg / 10 mg / 20 mg
- Love strawberry? All strawberry nic salts — filter by 5 mg / 10 mg / 20 mg
Quick FAQ
Is higher nicotine always harsher?
Not with nicotine salts. They’re designed to feel smoother even at higher strengths.
Can I use 20 mg/ml in a big cloud-chasing device?
No. High strengths are for small pod kits and tight draws. Using them in sub-ohm tanks can deliver too much nicotine.
What if I feel light-headed or nauseous?
That’s usually too much nicotine. Step down a level and take fewer puffs.
What if I’m still craving cigarettes?
Try one step higher, or take a couple more puffs. Check your pod or coil is fresh too.