Getting the right nicotine strength is tricky because vaping and smoking absorb nicotine differently. Many smokers will choose a nicotine strength based on how much nicotine is in a cigarette. Unfortunately, it’s not the right way to go about it since you don’t absorb the same amount of nicotine.
On average, the amount of nicotine found in one cigarette is around 10-14 mg and you only absorb about 1-1.5 mg of nicotine. Furthermore, vaping doesn’t deliver the same amount of nicotine in the bloodstream as cigarettes.
The important thing in answering this simply comes down to your smoking habits – look at how many you have a day, think about whether they were a light variety or not and go from there. The strength you use is personal to you – trying a stronger liquid might help you make the switch from smoking to vaping and once you’ve found the right one you can gradually reduce it over time. The other benefit is, if you go for a slightly lower strength you can vape until you’re satisfied rather than having too strong a hit.
Smokers who want to quit nicotine completely (Not for first time vapers switching from cigarettes): 0 mg
Light smoker (Less than half a pack): 3 mg
Moderate Smoker (Half a pack): 6 mg
Heavy Smoker (Full pack): 12 mg
0mg nicotine – the nicotine free option is ideal for social smokers who only have the odd cigarette when they’re out and just want the feel of smoking, or to dilute their juice that does have some nicotine to make it a little more mild. It’s also for hobbyists who just enjoy being able to blow vapour rings and do the Irish Waterfall in the comfort of their own home.
3mg nicotine – This is the lowest level nicotine you can get in a liquid (unless you mix it yourself with some 0mg to dilute it). It’s often the ideal final step for people quitting smoking, who have reduced their intake to almost nothing. We’d also recommend this concentration for light smokers who are getting through only a few cigarettes a day.
6mg nicotine – Another low-level nicotine strength, it’ll still give you the nicotine buzz you’re looking for, similar to what you’d expect from some brands of Ultra Low/Ultra Light cigarettes. This one is for those of you who are getting through around 10 a day – though depending on the strength of what you’re used to the 3mg might be better suited.
12mg nicotine – Made for your average smoker, who gets through up to a pack a day. It’s a good place to start to get you used to vaping and will give you enough to keep the cravings away.
Remember, these are broad guidelines and choosing the right nicotine strength will vary from person to person. Heavy smokers may be satisfied with 6 mg since some may prefer a lighter throat hit to enjoy the flavor more than getting nicotine.
*Tip: The higher the nicotine level, the harsher the overall vape experience will be.
