Share
Can You Switch Between Nic Salts and Freebase?
Yes, you can switch between nicotine salts and freebase e-liquid, provided the liquid is suitable for your device and coil.
The key things to check are nicotine strength, VG/PG ratio, coil resistance and wattage. The right combination depends more on your complete setup than simply whether an e-liquid contains nic salts or freebase nicotine.
Nic Salts vs Freebase
|
Nic Salts |
Freebase |
|
Commonly 10mg and 20mg |
Commonly 3mg and 6mg |
|
Usually 50/50 VG/PG |
50/50 or higher VG |
|
Popular with MTL pods |
MTL and sub-ohm devices |
|
Higher-resistance coils |
Lower-resistance coils for sub-ohm |
|
Lower vapour production |
Greater vapour production at higher wattages |
There is some overlap, so the nicotine type alone doesn't determine which device or coil you should use.
Can You Use Both in the Same Vape?
Some refillable pod systems can use both nic salts and freebase e-liquid when the liquid, pod and nicotine strength are compatible.
For example, a Vaporesso XROS 5 can work well with suitable 50/50 e-liquid and compatible pods.
A powerful sub-ohm device such as the Geekvape Aegis Legend III is a different setup. When using a low-resistance mesh coil at higher wattage, a lower-strength freebase e-liquid is generally more appropriate.
Always check the coil specifications and recommended wattage before switching.
Why Does Nicotine Strength Matter?
A low-powered MTL pod produces much less vapour per puff than a high-powered sub-ohm tank.
Because of this, a higher-strength nic salt suitable for a pod may not be appropriate for a powerful sub-ohm setup.
For example, don't automatically transfer a 20mg nic salt from a pod to a high-powered device simply because the e-liquid fits the tank.
If you're changing devices as well as e-liquid, choose the nicotine strength according to the new setup and your existing nicotine intake.
Does VG/PG Ratio Matter?
Yes.
50/50 e-liquids are commonly used with MTL pod systems, while higher-VG liquids are often designed for larger coils and higher-powered sub-ohm devices.
Using a high-VG e-liquid in a small pod can cause poor wicking, dry hits, burnt flavour and reduced coil life.
Always check the VG/PG ratio before switching.
Can You Use Freebase in a Pod?
Yes. Freebase nicotine doesn't automatically mean an e-liquid must be used in a sub-ohm tank.
Suitable 50/50 freebase e-liquids can work with MTL devices and higher-resistance coils, such as an Aspire Nautilus 3 with a compatible coil.
The important factor is matching the e-liquid to the coil and device.
Can You Put Nic Salts in a Sub-Ohm Tank?
The main concern is nicotine strength.
A low-resistance coil running at high wattage can produce considerably more vapour than an MTL pod. Using a high-strength nic salt in this type of setup can therefore deliver much more nicotine per puff than you're used to.
For powerful sub-ohm setups, lower-strength freebase e-liquid is generally the more suitable choice.
Should You Change the Pod When Switching?
You don't always need to change the pod, but some of the previous e-liquid will remain in the coil and wick.
This can cause the old flavour to linger or mix with the new one.
If you want a clean flavour change, using a fresh pod or coil is the easiest option. If you switch regularly, keeping separate pods for different e-liquids can also help.
How to Switch Safely
Before switching between nic salts and freebase:
- Check the nicotine strength.
- Check the VG/PG ratio.
- Confirm the liquid suits your pod or tank.
- Check the coil resistance.
- Follow the coil's recommended wattage.
- Give yourself time to adjust if you've changed nicotine strength or device type.
Which Setup Should You Choose?
For higher-strength nic salts, compact MTL devices such as the Vaporesso XROS 5, XROS 5 Mini, VOOPOO Argus G3, Geekvape Wenax Q Pro and Aspire Pixo MAX can be suitable when paired with the correct pod and 50/50 e-liquid.
For lower-strength freebase e-liquid, a higher-powered setup such as the Geekvape Aegis Legend III with a suitable tank and low-resistance coil can be more appropriate.
Final Verdict
Yes, you can switch between nic salts and freebase. However, don't simply swap the bottle and assume the same setup will work.
Match the nicotine strength, VG/PG ratio, coil resistance and wattage to your device. The right e-liquid for the right hardware will give you a more suitable and consistent vaping experience.
