Nicotine Salts (Nic Salts) or Freebase Nicotine: What's the difference?

Introduction:

When choosing a vape liquid, understanding the difference between nicotine salts (nic salts) and freebase nicotine is essential. Each type provides a unique experience, depending on your preferences, nicotine needs, and vaping device. Let's dive into what sets them apart and how they might suit your vaping style.

What Is Freebase Nicotine?

Freebase nicotine is the traditional form and has been around since the very early days of vaping. It is the purest form of nicotine derived from tobacco, providing a strong throat hit that many former smokers appreciate.

Freebase e-liquids typically (but not always) have a lower range of nicotine strengths, generally ranging from 3mg to 12mg. The throat hit becomes harsher as the nicotine concentration increases, which is something to bear in mind if that is something you're looking for.

Popular brands in this style of e-liquid include: Ultimate V2, Nicohit 50/50 and Vampire Vape.

Those who frequently use freebase nicotine e-liquids tend to use classic style pen kits such as the KangerTech Evod starter kit. However freebase vape juices can be used with any vape kit, so for those looking for something more modern we recommend the Geekvape Sonder Q pod kit, which simply cannot be matched in performance for its price point.

What Is Nicotine Salt?

Nicotine salts, on the other hand, are a newer style of nicotine vape liquid, designed to provide a smoother hit, even at higher nicotine levels. Nic salts are made by adding a weak acid (such as benzoic acid) to freebase nicotine, which lowers its pH, making the nicotine less harsh on the throat.

This allows users to vape at much higher nicotine concentrations (typically 10mg to 20mg) without the harshness that high levels of freebase nicotine might cause.

Nic salts are absorbed into the bloodstream quicker than freebase nicotine, making them ideal for those looking to curb nicotine cravings faster. They are commonly used with low-wattage pod systems due to the tendency for these vape juices to contain a lot of sweetener. This can cause the coils inside higher wattage kits to burn out quicker than expected.

Key Differences Between Nic Salt and Freebase E-Liquids

• Nicotine Strengths: Freebase nicotine typically comes in lower concentrations (3mg to 12mg), while nic salts are available in much higher strengths (10mg to 20mg).
• Throat Hit: Freebase nicotine delivers a stronger, more intense throat hit, which can be favourable for ex-smokers. In contrast, nic salts provide a smoother experience, even at higher nicotine levels.
• Device Compatibility: Freebase nicotine works well with all vape kits, including high-powered devices like sub-ohm kits (in the case of high VG liquids), which are designed to produce larger vapour clouds. Nic salts, however, are better suited for pod systems and low-wattage devices due to their higher sweetener content.
• Absorption and Satisfaction: Nic salts are absorbed into the bloodstream faster, making them ideal for vapers who need quick relief from nicotine cravings. Freebase nicotine, while effective, takes a bit longer to deliver its effects.
• Vapour Production: Freebase e-liquids can be better for cloud chasers, this is due to many of them offering a 70/30 VG (Vegetable Glycerine) PG (Propylene Glycol) ratio option that lends itself to thicker vapour production. Whereas nic salts tend to only come in a 50/50 ratio, producing a less dense vapour.
• Flavour Profile: Nic salt e-liquids tend to have a more pronounced flavour profile, generally emulating disposable vape flavours. Freebase nicotine on the other hand, can sometimes seem to have a muted flavour in comparison.

Which One Is Right for You?

Choosing between nic salts and freebase nicotine depends on your personal vaping preferences. If you're looking for a smooth hit with high nicotine content, nic salts are the way to go, especially if you use a pod system.

On the other hand, if you prefer high wattage kits, lower nicotine strengths or don’t mind the throat hit, freebase nicotine will likely suit you better.

Both types of e-liquids have their own advantages, and as with many things, the best way to decide is by experimenting. So try out some options to find the best juice for you! Feel free to let us know how you get on.

Written by Jakub.O

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