What to Look Out for When Buying E-Cigarettes and Vape Liquids

In the ever-expanding world of vaping, it is vital for both beginners and seasoned vapers to make informed decisions about the products they use.

Here, EDGE Vaping explains how to choose top-notch e-cigarettes and vape liquids, spotlighting the pivotal factors to consider. This guide will equip you with an understanding of e-cigarette components and vape liquid ingredients, and will help you to browse through products with confidence.

Understanding e-cigarettes

Electronic cigarettes, more commonly known as e-cigarettes, are devices that heat an e-liquid into vapour, which the user inhales. This liquid often contains nicotine, flavourings, PG (propylene glycol) and VG (vegetable glycerol). The principal components of an e-cigarette include a battery, an atomiser aka coil, and a cartridge, pod or tank which holds the e-liquid.

The build quality of an e-cigarette is an important factor in its performance and longevity. A well-constructed device will provide a consistent vaping experience and withstand regular use.

Equally important is the battery life, which determines how long the e-cigarette can be used before needing a recharge. The atomiser or coil, the component responsible for heating the e-liquid into vapour, should function efficiently to deliver a smooth and satisfying vape.

When selecting an e-cigarette, you should opt for products from reputable brands. Trusted manufacturers adhere to rigorous standards of quality control, ensuring their devices are safe and reliable.

Customer reviews, available on various online platforms, are also a valuable resource when gauging the quality and performance of an e-cigarette. They offer real-world insights into the user experience, helping potential buyers make informed decisions.

Always remember, a well-informed purchase is a step towards a better and safer vaping experience.

Selecting e-liquids

An equally important aspect of the vaping experience is the selection of e-liquids, also known as vape juice or e-juice. E-liquids are heated into vapour in an e-cigarette. EDGE e-liquids consist of four ingredients: propylene glycol (PG), vegetable glycerol (VG), nicotine, and flavourings. If any other ingredients can be found listed on the label of an e-liquid bottle, this product should be avoided.

PG and VG serve as carriers for nicotine and flavourings. They also influence the density of the vapour and the intensity of the throat hit, higher PG e-liquids accommodate the broadest range of freebase nicotine strengths that become harsher on the throat as they increase.

PG is thinner and provides a stronger throat hit, while VG is thicker and produces denser vapour clouds. Most e-liquids come in varying ratios of PG and VG, and the choice of ratio can affect your vaping experience.

For instance, a higher VG content would be more suitable for producing thicker clouds, while a higher PG content can deliver a more intense flavour.

Nicotine, the addictive substance found in traditional cigarettes, is also a common ingredient in e-liquids. There are primarily two types of nicotine used in e-liquids: freebase nicotine and nicotine salts.

Freebase nicotine is the purest form of nicotine and is commonly used in traditional e-liquids. It delivers a throat hit and is suited for vapers who are looking to make the switch from smoking.

On the other hand, nicotine salts are also helpful for those who are looking to switch, as it offers craving-beating strength without the throat hit. 

The nicotine strength in your e-liquid should ideally align with your previous nicotine consumption. For example, a pack-a-day smoker might opt for an e-liquid with a nicotine strength of 12-18mg, while a less frequent smoker might find a 6mg e-liquid sufficient. It is important to find the right balance to satisfy your cravings while avoiding excessive nicotine consumption, and slowly ease towards lower-to-no-nicotine e-liquids.

E-liquids come in an array of flavours. These flavours can be broadly categorised into fruity, dessert, mint, menthol, and tobacco - but you will find countless blends of your favourite flavour profiles.

The choice of flavour is highly subjective and depends on personal preference. You might find that a certain flavour enhances your vaping experience, or you might prefer to rotate between different flavours. It is worthwhile to experiment with different flavours to discover what suits you best.

Avoiding disreputable sellers and brands

In the diverse marketplace of vaping products, it is imperative to avoid disreputable sellers and brands. Trustworthy brands demonstrate transparency about their ingredients and manufacturing processes.

They provide detailed information about the contents of their e-liquids and the sources of their ingredients, ensuring you can verify their safety and quality.

Furthermore, you should always check the expiration date of e-liquids before purchase. Like any perishable product, e-liquids can degrade over time, particularly if improperly stored.

To prolong the lifespan of your e-liquids, store them in a cool, dark place, such as a cupboard, and ensure they are sealed tightly to prevent oxidation.

Looking to make the switch?

If you are considering making the switch to vaping and exploring vape products, visit our Making the Switch page where you can learn everything you need to know to make an informed choice, see if vaping is right for you and if so, how to start your journey the right way.