VG vs PG is one of the most important differences to understand when choosing or mixing e-liquid. Vegetable glycerin (VG) and propylene glycol (PG) are two of the primary base ingredients used in e-liquid. The ratio of these ingredients can affect the liquid’s viscosity, flavour characteristics, vapour production, and overall vaping experience.
What is Vegetable Glycerin (VG)?
Vegetable glycerin, commonly abbreviated as VG, is a clear, colourless, odourless, and relatively thick liquid derived from plant-based fats and oils. It is also known as glycerol and is widely used in food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and other products.
In e-liquid, VG contributes to the thickness of the liquid and generally produces a larger, denser aerosol than higher-PG formulations when used with suitable equipment. VG also has a mild sweetness that can influence the overall character of an e-liquid.
VG is generally associated with:
- Thicker e-liquid consistency
- Greater aerosol production in suitable devices
- A smoother sensation compared with higher-PG formulations for many users
- A mild natural sweetness
- Slower wicking through some types of wicking material because of its higher viscosity
What is Propylene Glycol (PG)?
Propylene glycol, commonly abbreviated as PG, is a clear, colourless liquid with a much lower viscosity than VG. It is used in a wide range of applications, including food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and e-liquids.
In e-liquid, PG is commonly used as a carrier for nicotine and flavouring substances. Because it is thinner than VG, PG can also help an e-liquid move through and saturate some types of wicking material more easily.
PG is generally associated with:
- Thinner e-liquid consistency
- Efficient transport of flavouring compounds
- A more noticeable throat sensation for many users
- Lower aerosol production compared with high-VG formulations under similar conditions
- Faster wicking in some devices because of its lower viscosity
The actual experience can vary considerably depending on the device, coil, power level, airflow, flavourings, nicotine concentration, and individual sensitivity.
VG vs PG: Understanding the Differences
Although VG vs PG are both used as carrier liquids in e-liquid, their physical properties are quite different. VG is substantially more viscous than PG, while PG is thinner and has a less noticeable sweetness.
| Feature | VG | PG |
|---|---|---|
| Consistency | Thicker and more viscous | Thinner and less viscous |
| Sweetness | Mild natural sweetness | Very little sweetness |
| Flavour characteristics | Generally softer and less flavour-forward | Often provides a more pronounced flavour sensation |
| Throat sensation | Generally smoother | Generally more noticeable |
| Aerosol production | Generally greater in suitable devices | Generally lower at the same operating conditions |
| Wicking | Can require more efficient wicking because of its viscosity | Typically wicks more readily because it is thinner |
These differences are useful guidelines rather than absolute rules. The composition of the e-liquid and the way a device operates can significantly affect the resulting aerosol and flavour experience. Research has shown that changes in the PG/VG ratio can influence aerosol characteristics, and that device power and other operating conditions also play an important role.
Choosing the Right VG/PG Ratio
E-liquids are available in a range of VG/PG ratios. The best ratio depends on the type of device being used, its wicking system, power level, desired vapour production, flavour preferences, and personal preference.
High VG Ratios
High-VG formulations, such as 70/30 or 80/20 VG/PG, contain considerably more VG than PG. They are commonly used in devices designed to handle thicker liquids and higher power levels.
- Generally produce more visible aerosol
- Have a thicker consistency
- Often provide a smoother throat sensation
- May be preferred by users who enjoy higher vapour production
Because VG is relatively thick, high-VG liquids may not wick effectively in every device. Using a liquid with more VG than a device is designed to handle can contribute to poor wicking or dry hits.
Balanced Ratios
A 50/50 VG/PG ratio provides an even balance between the two base liquids and is commonly used in e-liquids designed for lower-power devices and many pod-style systems.
- Moderate viscosity
- Balanced flavour and aerosol characteristics
- Good wicking in many devices
- Suitable for a wide range of e-liquid formulations
Higher PG Ratios
Higher-PG formulations, such as 40/60 or 30/70 VG/PG, contain more PG than VG. These thinner liquids can work well in devices designed for higher-PG formulations.
- Thinner consistency
- Often provide a more pronounced flavour sensation
- Generally produce less visible aerosol than high-VG formulations under similar conditions
- More noticeable throat sensation for many users
Higher-PG formulations can also be useful where a thinner liquid is better suited to the device’s wicking system.
How Temperature Affects VG and PG
Temperature can affect the viscosity and handling characteristics of VG/PG mixtures. VG becomes noticeably thicker at lower temperatures, which can make high-VG e-liquids more difficult to wick in some devices during cold weather.
This can be particularly noticeable during Canadian winters. Allowing a cold e-liquid to return to room temperature before use can improve its flow characteristics. Device design and wicking efficiency also play an important role in how well a particular VG/PG ratio performs in colder conditions.
Temperature and device operating conditions can also affect the chemistry of the aerosol produced during vaping. Research has found that aerosol composition depends on factors including e-liquid composition, coil temperature, power, and puff duration.
How VG and PG Affect Flavour
VG and PG can influence how flavour is perceived, but neither ingredient should be considered solely responsible for flavour intensity. The type and concentration of flavouring compounds, the VG/PG ratio, nicotine level, device, coil, power, airflow, and temperature can all affect the final experience.
PG is commonly associated with a more pronounced flavour sensation because it is an effective carrier for many flavouring compounds. VG has a mild sweetness and a thicker texture, which can produce a softer overall flavour profile in some formulations.
Changing the VG/PG ratio can therefore change how the same flavour recipe is perceived. A recipe that tastes well balanced at one ratio may taste somewhat different when prepared with substantially more VG or PG.
Understanding Throat Hit
The VG/PG ratio can also influence throat hit. Higher-PG formulations are generally associated with a more noticeable throat sensation, while higher-VG formulations are often perceived as smoother.
However, the throat hit of an e-liquid is not determined by VG and PG alone. Nicotine concentration and type, flavouring ingredients, cooling agents, device settings, and individual sensitivity can all contribute to the sensation.
Mixing Your Own E-Liquid
For DIY e-liquid mixing, choosing a VG/PG ratio is one part of creating a finished formulation. The final ratio can be affected by the base liquid, nicotine solution, flavour concentrates, and any other ingredients included in the recipe.
When selecting a ratio, consider the equipment the e-liquid will be used with as well as the desired characteristics of the finished liquid. If you’re looking for flavour concentrates for your own recipes, you can explore our selection of flavour concentrates at Flavours To Go.
- For a thicker liquid and greater aerosol production, a higher VG ratio may be appropriate for compatible equipment.
- For a thinner liquid and more pronounced flavour sensation, a higher PG ratio may be preferred.
- For a balance between the two, a 50/50 ratio is a common choice.
It is also important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the device being used. A liquid that is too thick for a particular wicking system may not saturate the coil effectively, while a very thin liquid may not be appropriate for equipment designed around higher-VG formulations.
VG and PG Are Not the Same as Nicotine or Flavouring
VG and PG are carrier liquids used as part of an e-liquid formulation. They are separate from nicotine and flavouring substances, although PG and VG can act as carriers for those ingredients.
The final composition of an e-liquid depends on all of its ingredients. For example, adding nicotine or flavour concentrates changes the overall formulation and can slightly alter the final VG/PG ratio depending on the ingredients and their concentrations.
Final Thoughts
VG and PG serve different roles in e-liquid, and understanding their properties makes it easier to understand why different formulations use different ratios. VG is thicker, mildly sweet, and generally associated with greater aerosol production and a smoother sensation. PG is thinner and is commonly associated with stronger flavour perception and a more noticeable throat sensation.
There is no single VG/PG ratio that is right for every e-liquid or every device. The ideal balance depends on the equipment, formulation, desired characteristics, and individual preference.
Whether you prefer a high-VG blend, a balanced 50/50 formulation, or a higher-PG liquid, understanding how these two base liquids differ can help you make more informed choices when selecting or mixing e-liquid.
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