Where do we start?
More and more individuals are swapping traditional cigarettes for e-cigarettes (electronic cigarettes) due to their proven health benefits. If you're considering making the switch, this practical guide for new users is designed to answer your key queries.
What exactly is an e-cigarette?
An e-cigarette is an electronic alternative to tobacco smoking that produces a vapour mist to simulate the experience of smoking a cigarette. There are various types available catering to beginners, budget-conscious users, and those looking for premium options.
Advantages over traditional cigarettes
Traditional cigarette smoke contains over 4,000 chemicals, including 43 carcinogenic compounds and 400 other toxins. E-cigarettes, being non-combustible, do not produce ash, smoke, tar, or carcinogens. They also lack the distinctive smell of regular cigarettes and are widely believed to pose no risk to bystanders. Further details are covered in our popular vaping myths guide.
What is an atomizer?
Atomizers sit atop an e-cigarette battery and use heat to vaporise e-liquid. They can be self-contained and disposable, use replaceable coils, or be rebuildable for advanced vapers seeking complete control over their experience.
What is a coil?
Coils are the essential heating elements of your vaping device. Typically, a small wire wrapped around cotton, coils absorb e-liquid and vaporise it when heated. Coil resistance—measured in ohms—affects heat, vapour production, and flavour intensity.
What is sub-ohm vaping?
Sub-ohm vaping uses coils with less than 1 Ω resistance, thicker wire, and increased airflow to handle more power and produce larger vapour clouds. While it boosts vapour and flavour, it also consumes more e-liquid and battery life.
When should I replace my coil?
Replace your coil when you notice a burnt taste or reduced performance. Usage patterns, power settings, and e-liquid choice all affect coil lifespan.
How do I prime my coil?
Proper priming prevents premature burnout:
- Drip e-liquid into the top and side holes of the coil.
- Reinstall the coil and fill your tank.
- Let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
- Take a few “primer puffs” without firing the device.
Mouth to Lung (MTL) Vaping
Draw vapour into your mouth before inhaling. Uses tight-draw atomisers, ideal for beginners and those transitioning from smoking. Supports higher nicotine and PG ratios. Closely mimics the sensation of smoking with simple wattage settings.
Direct to Lung (DTL) Vaping
Inhale vapour directly into the lungs. Produces larger clouds and more intense flavour. Best used with lower nicotine (≤6 mg), higher VG e-liquids, and kits that offer airflow control for smooth, voluminous vapour.
What is e-liquid?
E-liquid (e-juice) consists of propylene glycol (PG), vegetable glycerine (VG), flavouring, and nicotine. PG gives throat hit; VG produces denser vapour. Experiment to find your perfect blend.
Which nicotine strength should I choose?
Nicotine is measured in mg/ml (max 20 mg/ml in the EU). As a rough guide:
- 10+ regular cigarettes/day: 18 mg
- Up to 10 light cigarettes: 12 mg
- Up to 10 ultra-lights: 6 mg
- Very light/occasional: 3 mg
- Nicotine-free: 0 mg
What are PG & VG?
PG (propylene glycol) provides a stronger throat hit and carries flavour; VG (vegetable glycerine) produces thicker vapour. A 50/50 VG/PG blend is ideal for starter kits; adjust ratios for more vapour or more throat hit.
Battery & coil safety
For battery and coil safety guidance, please see our Battery Safety Guide.
