what is sub ohm vaping

A Guide to Sub-Ohm Vaping & High-VG Juices

The world of vaping is constantly evolving, with new devices, techniques, and terms popping up all the time. For both new and experienced vapers, this can sometimes feel a bit overwhelming. One of the most popular styles to emerge is sub-ohm vaping, a method celebrated for producing huge clouds and incredibly rich flavor.

However, this technique isn't as simple as picking up any device and puffing away. It requires specific equipment and a particular type of e-liquid, commonly known as high VG vape juice. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, explaining what is sub-ohm vaping, its benefits, and how you can get started safely.

What is Sub-Ohm Vaping, Anyway?

In simple terms, sub-ohm vaping is a style of vaping that uses a device with a coil that has a resistance below 1.0 ohm. But what does that really mean?

An "ohm" is a unit used to measure electrical resistance. In vaping, a lower resistance coil allows more electrical current to flow through it from the battery. This makes the coil heat up faster and reach a higher temperature. Think of it like a garden hose: a wider hose (lower resistance) lets more water (power) flow through at once.

This style is often contrasted with standard, or "above-ohm," vaping. Standard devices typically have a tighter draw that mimics the sensation of smoking a traditional cigarette. This is called a "mouth-to-lung" (MTL) inhale. Sub-ohm vaping, on the other hand, is known for its airy "direct-to-lung" (DTL) inhale, where you draw the vapor straight into your lungs.

The Payoff: Why Vapers Love Sub-Ohm Vaping

So, why do so many vapers choose sub-ohm vaping? The benefits are clear and appealing, especially for those looking to get the most out of their vaping experience by using high power and advanced setups.

  • Massive Vapor Clouds: This is the most noticeable benefit. The combination of higher wattage and increased airflow results in significantly larger, denser clouds of vapor, which many people find enjoyable.
  • Intense Flavor: When the coil gets hotter, it vaporizes more e-liquid with every puff. This process unlocks a richer, fuller, and more pronounced flavor from your high VG juice.
  • Warmer Vapor: The increased power generates a pleasantly warm vapor. Many users prefer this sensation over the cooler vapor produced by standard, lower-power devices.

Getting Started: Essential Gear for Sub-Ohm Vaping

To begin your sub-ohm journey, you'll need the right gear. Using the correct equipment is essential for getting the best performance.

Sub-Ohm Tanks

These tanks are specifically designed for low-resistance vaping. They feature larger airflow holes to allow for that airy, direct-to-lung draw. The coils are also built for low resistance, with options like 0.5 ohm or 0.2 ohm being common.

Powerful Mods

Sub-ohm vaping requires a device, or "mod," that can supply enough power to heat the low-resistance coils. For anyone new to this style, regulated mods are the best choice. These devices have built-in safety features and allow you to adjust your power settings for a customized experience.

High-Quality Batteries

Because sub-ohm vaping draws a lot of power, using the right batteries is crucial. You'll need high-quality, high-drain batteries (like the popular 18650 size) from reputable brands. Always handle your batteries with care.

High-VG E-Liquids

This is the final, essential piece of the puzzle. Sub-ohm vaping works best with a specific type of e-liquid, which brings us to our next point. 

The Perfect Partner: What is High VG Juice?

E-liquids are typically made from two main base ingredients: Propylene Glycol (PG) and Vegetable Glycerin (VG). Whether you're using a VG e-liquid or a blend that includes high PG, understanding these components helps you choose the right juice for your device.

Propylene Glycol (PG): This is a thin liquid that is very good at carrying flavor. It's also responsible for the "throat hit" sensation that many former smokers look for.
Vegetable Glycerin (VG): This is a much thicker, slightly sweet liquid. Its primary role is producing dense, visible vapor.

A high VG vape juice is any e-liquid that contains 60% VG or more, with common ratios being 70/30 or 80/20 (VG/PG). So, what is high VG juice used for? It's the ideal partner for sub-ohm vaping for a few key reasons:

  • Cloud Production: Because VG is what creates vapor, a higher VG content is necessary to produce the large, dense clouds that sub-ohm vaping is famous for.
  • Smoothness: High VG liquids provide a much smoother inhale. This is important for the direct-to-lung style, making the experience more comfortable and enjoyable.
  • Thickness: The thicker consistency of high VG juice works perfectly with sub-ohm tanks, which have larger coil openings. Using a thinner liquid with high PG levels in these tanks can lead to leaking.

Because high VG liquids are so thick, they are not recommended for smaller, standard pod devices. The thick liquid can have trouble wicking properly, which may lead to clogged coils.

Is Sub-Ohm Vaping Right for You?

This popular style is perfect for vapers who prioritize incredible flavor, impressive cloud production, and a smooth throat hit that complements the warm, powerful vapor sub-ohm devices are known for. If you enjoy experimenting with your device and want a fuller, more immersive vape, you'll likely love sub-ohm vaping.

It's often seen as the next step for vapers who have moved beyond the initial need for a cigarette-like experience and are ready to explore more of what vaping has to offer. Just keep in mind that this style does tend to use more e-liquid and battery life due to the higher power output.

Ready to Make Some Clouds?

Sub-ohm vaping is a fantastic way to experience bigger clouds and more intense flavors from your e-liquids. The key is to pair low-resistance coils with a powerful mod and the right high VG vape juice. By understanding the basics and using the correct equipment, you can unlock a whole new dimension of vaping.

Ready to dive into the world of flavor and clouds? Check out our curated collection of sub-ohm gear, vape devices and vape kits, along with delicious high VG e-liquids today! Our experts are always here to help you choose the perfect setup.

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