Propylene Glycol vs. Vegetable Glycerin: What You Need to Know
Jessica Tyson
21/05/2025 • 5 min read
When it comes to choosing the right vape juice, one of the first things you’ll encounter is the PG/VG ratio. These two ingredients — Propylene Glycol (PG) and Vegetable Glycerin (VG) — form the base of nearly every e-liquid, and they play a major role in how your vape feels, tastes, and performs.
In this comprehensive guide, we break down the differences between PG and VG, explain how they affect your health and experience, and help you decide which blend is right for you. Whether you’re a beginner or a cloud-chasing veteran, FREESMO is here to guide you through the science and the products — using only trusted UK sources and recommendations.
What Is Propylene Glycol (PG)?
Propylene Glycol is a synthetic liquid substance that is odourless, colourless, and used in a wide range of everyday consumer products. In vaping, it acts as a flavour carrier and provides a throat hit that mimics the sensation of smoking tobacco.
PG is hygroscopic, meaning it draws moisture, which contributes to the dry sensation you may feel in the throat. It's also thinner than VG, making it ideal for lower-wattage mouth-to-lung (MTL) devices and pod systems.
Why PG Matters:
- Delivers a sharper throat hit, closer to smoking
- Low viscosity, quick coil saturation
- Carries flavour better than VG
- Smaller vapour clouds for discreet vaping
What Is Vegetable Glycerin (VG)?
VG is a natural compound derived from vegetable oils. It's thicker and slightly sweet, contributing to vapour production and smoothness of the vape experience.
Why VG Matters:
- Produces dense vapour clouds
- Adds a subtle sweetness to e-liquids
- Works best in high-wattage sub-ohm devices
- Favoured for smoothness and flavour-chasing
Side-by-Side Comparison: Propylene Glycol vs. Vegetable Glycerin
| Feature | Propylene Glycol (PG) | Vegetable Glycerin (VG) |
|---|---|---|
| Vapour production | Low, discreet | High, dense clouds |
| Throat hit | Sharp, cigarette-like | Smooth, mellow |
| Flavour delivery | Intense and crisp | Subtle and sweet |
| Viscosity | Thin | Thick |
| Coil impact | Less residue | More gunk build up |
| Best for | Ex-smokers, MTL kits | DTL vapers, cloud-chasers |
| Common ratios | 50/50, 70/30 PG | 70/30 VG, max VG |
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End Notes: PG and VG
Whether you prefer strong flavour and a cigarette-like throat hit or smoother, cloud-heavy performance, understanding PG and VG can help you fine-tune your vape experience. FREESMO provides only the highest-quality, TPD-compliant e-liquids and hardware so you can vape with confidence.
