The nicotine content in a vape can range from 0mg (nicotine-free) to 20mg (2%), with common strengths being 3mg, 6mg, 12mg, and 18mg, depending on the type of vape and your smoking habits.
Recommended Nicotine Strength
The highest nicotine strength in a vape is typically 2% (20mg) nicotine, commonly found in nicotine salt-based e-liquids, particularly in disposable vapes. This is the highest nicotine strength allowed in the UK.
A typical cigarette contains around 12mg of nicotine, but only a portion of that is absorbed. Vaping can vary, but a 20mg nicotine vape is roughly equivalent to smoking a full-strength cigarette.
The amount of nicotine in a single puff is around 0.03mg to 0.1mg per puff, depending on the nicotine strength of the e-liquid.
A Lost Mary disposable vape typically contains 20mg (2%) of nicotine in each device, often using nicotine salts for a smoother hit.
Vaping has become a popular alternative to smoking in recent years, with many people turning to vapes as a way to quit smoking. If you're new to vaping, one of the most important decisions you'll need to make is choosing the right nicotine strength. The nicotine content in your vape can significantly impact your vaping experience and whether it helps you transition from smoking successfully.
So, how much nicotine is in a vape? This blog will explore the different nicotine strengths in various vaping products, compare vaping nicotine levels to those in traditional cigarettes, and provide recommendations to help you choose the right nicotine strength based on your smoking habits.
Nicotine strength refers to the amount of nicotine present in your vape liquid (also known as e-liquid) or vape pod. Nicotine is the addictive substance in cigarettes and, while vaping can provide a similar effect, it delivers nicotine differently. Understanding the nicotine content in your vape juice is crucial for ensuring a smooth transition from smoking to vaping.
Vaping products come in different nicotine strengths, and the correct choice for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Most e-liquids and disposable vapes will offer nicotine strengths in the range of 0mg to 20mg, with some products offering higher levels.
Disposable vapes are a popular choice for beginners or those looking for a simple, hassle-free vaping experience. These devices come pre-filled with e-liquid, and once the e-liquid is used up, the device is discarded.
So How much nicotine is in a disposable vape? Disposable vapes are available in 20mg or 10mg. The high nicotine content in these devices is what makes them popular among heavy smokers, as they provide a quicker and more effective nicotine hit. For example, Lost Mary Vapes, one of the most well-known disposable brands, typically comes with 20mg nicotine salts for a smoother experience compared to freebase nicotine.
E-liquids for refillable vapes are available in a broader range of nicotine strengths. These can include anything from 0mg to 20mg nicotine, with some brands offering even higher strengths in specific formulations. E-liquids are sold in bottles, and users can refill their vape tanks or pods as needed.
Nicotine salts are available in a variety of strengths, with 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg. Nicotine salts, or nic salts, are a newer form of nicotine that is commonly used in pod systems and some disposable vapes. Nicotine salts such as Elux Vape Juice are popular because they provide a smoother vaping experience with less harshness in the throat, which is ideal for those who want to reduce their nicotine intake gradually without sacrificing the satisfaction they get from a cigarette.
Freebase nicotine is usually found in e-liquids with nicotine strengths of 3mg, 6mg, 12mg, and 18mg. It's important to note that freebase nicotine is typically used in devices with higher wattage, such as sub-ohm tanks, which allow for larger vapour production and a stronger throat hit. Check out IVG 50/50 or Romance Freebase E Liquid.
Shortfill e-liquids are bottles that contain nicotine-free e-liquid but have enough space to add nicotine shots. These products are designed for vapers who want to customise their nicotine intake by adding nicotine shots of varying strengths. Shortfill e-liquids such as Doozy Vape Juice are usually available in larger bottle sizes, such as 50ml or 100ml, and the nicotine shot added can range from 0mg to 18mg.
One of the biggest decisions you'll need to make when selecting an e-liquid is whether to go with nicotine salts or freebase nicotine. Both types of nicotine have their advantages, but the choice depends on your individual preferences.
Choosing the right nicotine strength for your vape juice is crucial for ensuring a satisfying experience and a smooth transition from smoking to vaping. The amount of nicotine you need will depend on how much you were smoking before switching to vaping and your preferences for the sensation you experience. Below, we’ll break down the ideal nicotine strengths for different types of vapers: light, moderate, and heavy vapers.
Nicotine-free e-liquids are ideal for those who want to vape without consuming nicotine. This is typically chosen by social smokers who don't have an addiction to nicotine or those who have quit smoking and simply enjoy the action of vaping. If you’ve been a smoker and have completely reduced your nicotine intake, 0mg can be a satisfying choice for recreational vaping.
A 3mg nicotine strength is the lowest level of nicotine found in most e-liquids. It’s ideal for light smokers who are used to consuming a small amount of nicotine, or those who are trying to gradually reduce their nicotine intake. If you're used to smoking only a few cigarettes a day, a 3mg nicotine strength will provide a smooth hit without being overwhelming.
6mg nicotine strength is perfect for moderate smokers—those who smoke between 5-10 cigarettes a day. If you’re used to smoking a handful of cigarettes but not a full pack, 6mg can provide the necessary nicotine hit without feeling too strong.
For moderate smokers who are used to smoking one pack of cigarettes per day or more, 12mg nicotine strength is a good option. It gives you enough nicotine to replicate the sensation of smoking and manage cravings without feeling underwhelming.
If you're accustomed to smoking a full pack (or more) of cigarettes a day, 18mg nicotine strength is likely to be a good match. It delivers a higher nicotine concentration, providing a strong throat hit that resembles the sensation of smoking. This level is ideal for those looking for a robust nicotine hit to keep cravings at bay and make the switch to vaping easier.
For those who smoke more than a pack a day, 20mg nicotine strength will most likely meet your needs. This high concentration, commonly found in nicotine salt-based e-liquids, provides a smoother hit than freebase nicotine and is absorbed into the bloodstream more quickly. The 20mg nicotine strength is available in many disposable vapes and pod systems, which are especially designed for users with higher nicotine requirements.
Disposable vapes are an excellent option for beginners or those who are just starting their vaping journey. These devices come pre-filled with e-liquid, are easy to use, and don’t require any maintenance. You simply vape until the e-liquid runs out and then dispose of the device. Here are some recommended options:
If you’re at the point where you no longer crave nicotine but still enjoy vaping, choosing a no nicotine vape is the right choice. These e-liquids and disposable vapes such as Crystal Prime contain no nicotine, offering a satisfying vapour experience without the addictive properties of nicotine.
Refillable vape is ideal for those who want more control over their vaping experience. These devices allow you to choose your own e-liquid and nicotine strength, making it easy to customise your vaping experience as you progress through your smoking cessation journey. Choose from top brands such as Vaporesso, OXVA Xlim, SMOK, and so on. Pair them with thousands of e liquids from WizVape for the best experience.
In conclusion, understanding how much nicotine is in a vape is crucial for selecting the right product to suit your smoking habits and help you make a successful transition from smoking to vaping. By considering the nicotine strengths available in disposable vapes, e-liquids, nicotine salts, and freebase e-liquids, you can ensure you choose a product that provides the right balance of satisfaction and smoothness.
Yes, 2% (20mg/ml) nicotine is considered high strength and is the legal maximum in UK. It's suitable for heavy smokers (20+ cigarettes daily), found in nic salt vapes and disposables, provides strong throat hit similar to cigarettes, and delivers satisfying nicotine replacement for those transitioning from smoking without being excessively harsh.
A typical cigarette contains 12mg nicotine but only 1-2mg is absorbed by the body. A 2ml vape at 20mg/ml contains 40mg total nicotine but absorption varies by device and technique. Roughly, 10-15 puffs from a 20mg vape equals one cigarette's nicotine delivery, though vaping provides smoother, more gradual absorption than smoking's rapid spike.
Approximately 10-15 puffs from a 20mg nic salt vape equals one cigarette in nicotine delivery, though this varies based on: puff duration (longer = more nicotine), device power, inhalation depth, and individual absorption. A 600-puff disposable typically equals 40-60 cigarettes, making it last 2-3 days for pack-a-day smokers.
Yes, 3% (30mg/ml) nicotine is very high and illegal in UK—the maximum legal strength is 2% (20mg/ml) under TPD regulations. 3% nicotine is common in some US products but too strong for most users, causing harsh throat hit, potential nicotine overdose symptoms (dizziness, nausea), and is unnecessary for effective cessation.
A typical cigarette contains approximately 12mg of nicotine, but only 1-2mg (8-15%) is actually absorbed by the body during smoking due to combustion losses and exhalation. Light cigarettes contain 6-8mg, while full-strength contain 12-15mg, but absorption rates remain similar regardless of cigarette strength.
On average, 10-15 puffs from a 20mg nic salt vape equals one cigarette's nicotine absorption, though this varies by: puff duration (3-5 seconds optimal), device type (MTL vs sub-ohm), inhalation technique, and individual metabolism. Some heavy smokers may need more puffs initially while adjusting to vaping's different nicotine delivery method.
The UK legal maximum is 20mg/ml (2%) nicotine under the Tobacco Products Directive (TPD). Any product exceeding this concentration is illegal to sell or supply. This limit applies to: all e-liquids, disposable vapes, prefilled pods, and nic shots—ensuring consumer safety while providing adequate strength for smoking cessation.
Nicotine salts (nic salts) use benzoic acid for smoother throat hit, allowing higher strengths (10-20mg) comfortably in MTL devices, faster absorption mimicking cigarettes, and better satisfaction for ex-smokers. Freebase nicotine is harsher at high strengths, used in sub-ohm devices at lower concentrations (3-6mg), slower absorption, and preferred by cloud chasers.
Nicotine poisoning from vaping is rare but possible with excessive consumption. Symptoms include: nausea, dizziness, headache, rapid heartbeat, vomiting, confusion, and in severe cases seizures. Most cases are mild and resolve by stopping vaping and drinking water. Acute poisoning requires immediate medical attention—use appropriate nicotine strength to prevent overconsumption.
Too high: experiencing dizziness, nausea, harsh throat hit, headaches, or feeling jittery. Too low: frequent vaping without satisfaction, returning to cigarettes, constant cravings, or vaping excessively. Ideal strength satisfies cravings comfortably without discomfort—adjust until you find the sweet spot where 10-15 puffs provide satisfaction similar to one cigarette.
Heavy smokers (20+ cigarettes daily) should start with 20mg nic salts in MTL devices for best results: provides strong satisfaction similar to cigarettes, smooth throat hit despite high strength, effective craving management, and prevents return to smoking. Can reduce to 10mg after 2-3 months once adjusted to vaping.
0mg (nicotine-free) vaping eliminates nicotine addiction risks while maintaining the behavioral habit. It's safer than nicotine-containing products but not risk-free—inhalation of any substance carries potential risks. 0mg vaping is useful for: gradual cessation final step, enjoying flavors without nicotine, maintaining hand-to-mouth habit, or social vaping without dependency.
Smoking delivers rapid nicotine spike within seconds, creating intense satisfaction and stronger addiction. Vaping provides slower, steadier absorption over minutes, especially with nic salts offering smoother curve between smoking's spike and patch's gradual release. This difference means vapers may need more frequent puffs initially but develop healthier, less intense nicotine dependency.
Yes, gradual reduction is the recommended cessation strategy: start 20mg for satisfaction (2-3 months), reduce to 10mg (2-3 months), then 6mg, 3mg, and finally 0mg over 6-12 months total. This minimizes withdrawal symptoms, allows behavioral adjustment, and significantly increases success rates compared to quitting cold turkey—take your time and reduce when comfortable.
Immediate signs: dizziness, lightheadedness, nausea, increased heart rate, headache, sweating, confusion, tremors, or vomiting. Long-term overconsumption signs: persistent headaches, sleep disturbance, increased anxiety, digestive issues, or feeling unable to function without vaping. If experiencing these symptoms, reduce nicotine strength immediately and consult healthcare provider if severe or persistent.
Find quality e-liquids in all nicotine strengths at WizVape, offering: 0mg, 10mg, and 20mg nic salts from brands like Bar Juice 5000, ElfLiq, MaryLiq, Crystal Clear, 3-6mg freebase shortfills for sub-ohm, expert recommendations based on smoking history, multi-buy deals (10 for £16), and fast UK delivery for safe, effective nicotine replacement tailored to your needs.
