If you’re ever puzzled by the VG and PG labels on your e-juice bottle, you’re in good company. Both new and seasoned vapers sometimes wonder what those numbers mean, and how to pick the right VG/PG ratio for their needs.
In this guide, we’ll break down the essentials of VG and PG, explain why both are used in vape juice, and offer some practical advice to help you discover your own perfect blend.
What Are VG and PG?
The main ingredients in e-liquid are VG (Vegetable Glycerin) and PG (Propylene Glycol). Together, they form the foundation or “base” of every vape juice. Flavorings are added to this base to create the wide array of tastes you see across brands.
Both VG and PG are widely used in foods, medicines, and cosmetics, and are considered safe for consumption. But the ratio of VG to PG in your e-liquid dramatically changes your vaping experience—affecting everything from flavor and throat hit to vapor production and mouthfeel.
A Closer Look at VG (Vegetable Glycerin)
Vegetable Glycerin is a non-toxic liquid sourced from plant oils such as coconut or soy. It’s slightly sweet and helps carry other flavors, but its main job in e-liquid is to produce thick, dense vapor.
High-VG juices create larger clouds and a smoother, softer throat hit, making them a favorite for sub-ohm vaping and dessert-style flavors. If you love creamy, custard, or bakery e-liquids, you’ll likely find a high VG ratio (often 70VG or more).
However, thick VG liquids can wear out coils more quickly and take longer to saturate the wick. The natural sweetness of VG can also mellow out more subtle notes in your juice, though most top-tier manufacturers account for this in their recipes.
While it’s possible to use 100% VG e-liquid, most beginners find a blend of VG and PG easier to start with.
A Closer Look at PG (Propylene Glycol)
Propylene Glycol (PG) is a food-safe ingredient used in products like soda, ice cream, and even some medicines. In vape juice, PG is responsible for delivering most of the throat hit and helping intensify flavor.
If you’re transitioning from cigarettes, a high-PG, tobacco-flavored e-liquid can provide that satisfying, cigarette-like throat sensation without sweetness. PG is flavorless itself but acts as a great carrier for sharp and bold flavors, like tobacco or cider.
High-PG juices are thinner, which makes them easy to absorb into the wick, but they produce less vapor overall. Some people may experience sensitivity to PG, which can result in throat irritation; if this happens, a 100% VG e-liquid is usually a better choice.
Understanding VG/PG Ratios
The VG/PG ratio simply tells you how much of each ingredient is present in the e-liquid. You’ll commonly see ratios like 50:50 (half VG, half PG), 70:30 (70% VG, 30% PG), or even 100VG (pure Vegetable Glycerin).
If you’re just getting started, you don’t need to obsess over every number—focus on whether you prefer a “high VG” or “high PG” experience. Even small changes in ratio (like 70VG vs 80VG) make less difference than the unique flavors chosen by each manufacturer. Labels will always show the VG/PG blend, so don’t hesitate to experiment and note what suits you best.
Nicotine Boosters & Shortfills
Wondering if your nicotine booster needs to match your e-liquid’s VG/PG ratio? Ideally, yes—but it’s not always exact. Reputable vendors will pair your shortfill with a suitable nicotine shot to get the closest match possible. For more details, check guides specifically about nicotine boosters and shortfills.
Handy VG / PG Picking Guide
If you’re a newcomer to vaping, there’s an easy way to figure out your likely VG/PG preference without spending a fortune. Just read this list and see which of the following statements you agree with! It will give you a feel for what VG/PG ratio is probably right for you.
This table will point you in the right direction, but it will take time to find the perfect balance for you:
| FLAVOUR | VG %age | PG %age |
|---|---|---|
| I like a more intense flavour | 30+ | |
| I like sharp, dry flavours (tobacco, ciders) | 50+ | |
| I like rounded, creamy flavours (cakes, custards, desserts) | 70+ | |
| VAPOUR | VG %age | PG %age |
| I like a strong throat hit * | 50+ | |
| I like lots of vapour | 70+ | |
| I don’t want lots of vapour | 50+ | |
| I’m weaning myself off nicotine | 60+ | |
| VAPING HARDWARE | VG %age | PG %age |
| I use a Sub Ohm device ** | 70+ | |
| I’m using a starter kit or pod device | 50 | 50 |
| I want to replace my coils as infrequently as possible | 50+ | |
| I want a liquid that soaks the wick as quickly as possible | 50+ |
* A throat hit is very different from throat irritation. If vaping is making your throat itch, you could be PG sensitive, and you might need to switch to a 100VG e liquid.
** If you use a sub ohm device you usually need a high VG e liquid. If in any doubt about what your machine can handle, take a look at the device packaging and instructions for guidance.
In summary…
That’s it! Hopefully we’ve given you a basic understanding of how vegetable glycerin and propylene glycol work. Remember to pick the ratio that’s best for your health first (if you’re sensitive to PG it’s 100VG all the way), your device second (sub ohm devices need high VG), and your personal taste next (don’t worry – there are hundreds of delicious premium e-liquids to choose from at every VG/PG level).
If you have any questions at all about how VG/PG ratios work, please please get in touch.
About Luckeevape
Luckeevape is a pioneering vape brand dedicated to elevating your vaping experience through innovation, safety, and exceptional quality. Based in Shenzhen, China, Luckeevape operates state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities and adheres to strict ISO9001 standards. With over 100 independent patents and a relentless commitment to research and development, Luckeevape crafts devices and e-liquids that deliver outstanding flavor, reliability, and style. Whether you’re new to vaping or a seasoned enthusiast, Luckeevape’s diverse product range is designed to meet your needs and satisfy every preference.
Choose Luckeevape for a smooth, enjoyable, and trustworthy vape—every time.
