Nic Salts vs E-Liquid

If you have ever stood in a vape shop wondering which e-liquid to pick, you have likely seen two terms appear repeatedly: nic salts and freebase e-liquid. They both look similar, come in a range of flavours and strengths, yet the experience they deliver can feel entirely different. For many new vapers this becomes the biggest question of all, which one should you choose? 

We meet people every day who want smoother nicotine delivery, better flavour, or a stronger throat hit. The truth is that both types of e-liquid can be fantastic depending on your device and how you prefer to vape. Nic salts are popular for their quick satisfaction and gentle inhale, while traditional freebase e-liquids are still loved for their cloud production and flavour intensity. 

This guide will break down everything you need to know about both. We will explain how they are made, how they perform, which devices suit each best, and where to start if you are new to vaping. Along the way, we will mention some of the most popular e-liquid ranges we stock at Tidal Vape so you can make an informed choice next time you shop. 

What are Nic Salts

Nicotine salts are a special form of nicotine blended with an acid, most often benzoic acid. This chemical pairing changes how nicotine is absorbed in the body and makes the vapour smoother to inhale, even at higher strengths. The result is a liquid that provides fast relief from cravings without the harsh throat hit you might expect from traditional e-liquids. 

We have seen how nic salts have changed vaping for many customers. They are ideal for users who have recently switched from smoking or for anyone who wants higher nicotine strength without discomfort. A good example is the Pod Salt Nic Salt range, known for its smooth texture and strong but satisfying hit in flavours like Mixed Berries, Vanilla or Blue Raspberry. 

What is Freebase E-Liquid

Freebase e-liquid is the classic formula that has powered vaping since its early days. It contains nicotine in its purest form, without added acids, blended with propylene glycol (PG), vegetable glycerine (VG), and flavourings. This makes it more alkaline, resulting in a stronger throat hit and a slower nicotine release compared to nic salts. 

At Tidal Vape we carry a wide range of freebase e-liquids like the Dinner Lady 10 ml E-Liquid and IVG 70/30 E-Liquid ranges. These are favourites for vapers who prefer a traditional experience with full flavour and plenty of vapour. Freebase blends tend to perform best at higher wattages and in sub-ohm devices, giving you dense clouds and bold taste. 

The Key Differences

While both nic salts and freebase e-liquids contain nicotine, PG, VG, and flavourings, their chemical makeup and usage style differ significantly. Nic salts are smoother and deliver nicotine quickly, whereas freebase e-liquids provide a stronger throat sensation and are often enjoyed at lower nicotine strengths. 

Nic salts shine in smaller pod systems or mouth-to-lung devices, while freebase liquids perform best in powerful mods that generate bigger clouds. 

Which Gives a Better Throat Hit

Many people judge e-liquids by how they feel in the throat. Freebase e-liquids are known for a noticeable hit that closely resembles smoking, especially at higher nicotine strengths. Nic salts, on the other hand, are designed to smooth that sensation, making the inhale far less harsh. 

If you use a pod kit like the OXVA Xlim SQ or Vaporesso XROS, you’ll find nic salts incredibly comfortable. For users with sub-ohm setups such as the GeekVape Aegis Legend 2, a freebase liquid like IVG 70/30 E-Liquid Strawberry Watermelon Chew will provide the firm hit and dense vapour they expect. 

How Strengths Compare 

Nic salt e-liquids usually come in higher strengths because they are smoother to vape. Most bottles at Tidal Vape range between 10 mg and 20 mg nicotine. Freebase e-liquids, being harsher at high strength, usually range between 3 mg and 12 mg. 

This difference also affects how long your e-liquid lasts. Because nic salts satisfy cravings faster, you may vape less frequently throughout the day. Freebase e-liquids, with slower nicotine delivery, might encourage longer sessions. 

Which type suits your device 

Your choice between nic salts and e-liquid also depends on your vape device. Low-powered pod kits and starter pens pair perfectly with nic salts because they use higher resistance coils and lower wattage. Sub-ohm mods or larger box kits, which run on high wattage, work better with thicker freebase e-liquids. 

A Pod Salt Nic Salt or Just Juice 10 ml Nic Salt works beautifully with a Uwell Caliburn or any Voopoo refillable pod. Meanwhile, a 70/30 Freebase will shine in a VooPoo Drag 4 or any Smok kit. 

Flavour and Vapour Differences 

Flavour is personal, but how you experience it depends on your e-liquid and device. Nic salts, used in low-wattage systems, tend to produce less vapour but deliver clean, consistent flavour. Freebase e-liquids, vapourised at higher wattages, bring out bolder flavours and create dense clouds. 

Some of the best examples of flavour purity in nic salts are the Just Juice 10 ml Nic Salt range, especially Blue Mint or Berry Burst. For a strong, cloud-filled taste, IVG 70/30 E-Liquid varieties like Bubblegum Millions or Tropical Ice Blast are fantastic. 

Longevity and Coil Impact 

Using the right liquid in the right device helps your coil last longer. Nic salts are thinner because of their 50/50 VG/PG ratio and gentle nicotine composition. They are easier on coils used in pod systems. Freebase e-liquids with higher VG content are thicker, meaning they can shorten coil life if used in the wrong setup. 

If you use a 1.0 ohm coil or higher, nic salts are your best friend. If your coil sits below 0.5 ohm, stick to freebase. Replacing coils too often can get costly, so using the correct e-liquid type saves both money and effort. 

Price and Value 

Most 10 ml nic salt and freebase bottles are sold at similar prices. However, how you use them affects overall value. Because nic salts give faster satisfaction, you might consume them more slowly. Freebase e-liquids, used at higher wattages, can evaporate faster due to larger vapour output. 

At Tidal Vape, ranges like Pod Salt, Supergood, Vampire Vape, Just Juice, IVG. offer consistent quality regardless of which you choose. Picking the right one based on your style ensures you get both value and satisfaction from each bottle. 

When to Choose Nic Salts 

Nic salts are ideal if you are looking for a quick and smooth nicotine fix, particularly if you are switching from smoking or using a compact pod device. They are also great if you prefer a discreet vape that doesn’t produce large clouds. 

Tidal Vape customers who choose nic salts often say they like the immediate satisfaction and gentle draw. Our top recommendations are Pod Salt Nic Salt, Just Juice Nic Salt, and Sad Boy Nic Salt for their consistent flavour and smooth hit. 

When to Choose Freebase E-Liquid 

If you enjoy thick clouds, stronger throat hits, and lower nicotine strengths, freebase e-liquid is your match. It performs best in sub-ohm tanks and high-wattage devices, giving more control over vapour production and flavour intensity. 

Tidal Vape Recommendations 

At Tidal Vape, we take pride in curating the best of both worlds. For nic salts, our bestsellers include: 

For freebase e-liquids, we recommend: 

Whether you prefer the instant satisfaction of nic salts or the flavour-rich clouds of freebase e-liquids, you will find both stocked in our stores and online. Our team is always happy to help you match the right flavour, strength, and ratio for your setup.  

Closing thoughts 

In the end, nic salts vs e-liquid is not about which is better, but which suits your vaping style. Nic salts are perfect for quick nicotine delivery and smooth inhales, while freebase e-liquids shine when you want strong flavour and thick clouds. 

At Tidal Vape we encourage you to try both. Visit your nearest store or browse our range online to find your perfect match. We can assure you that you’ll find exactly what you need to make vaping more enjoyable.