Vaping Styles: Types, Differences, Techniques, Steps, and Devices

Vaping styles refer to different ways of inhaling vapour from an e-cigarette or vape device. The inhalation technique determines how the vapour is drawn, held, and absorbed. A vaping style influences throat hit, vapour density, and flavour intensity. Choosing the right method creates a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

What Are the Different Types of Vaping Styles?

There are three types of vaping styles based on inhalation style. Each method offers a unique sensation and vapour output. A proper understanding of these techniques helps users select the most suitable option.

MTL (Mouth-to-Lung) Vaping

MTL vaping involves two distinct steps. The vapour is first drawn into the mouth. A second inhale directs the vapour into the lungs. This method replicates the feel of smoking a traditional cigarette. A defined throat hit, and strong nicotine delivery characterise this technique.

• Experience: MTL vaping delivers a tight draw and a controlled inhale. A pronounced throat hit enhances the sensation. The flavour remains strong and concentrated in the mouth before reaching the lungs.

• Best Suited For: Smokers transitioning to vaping benefit the most. Beginners also find MTL vaping more familiar and easier to manage.

• Devices Used: Pod systems, MTL tanks, and disposables work best. These devices feature higher-resistance coils and restricted airflow.

• E-Liquids: High-PG e-liquids and nicotine salts improve performance. A stronger throat hit, and quicker nicotine absorption enhance the experience.

DTL (Direct-to-Lung) Vaping

DTL vaping requires a single deep inhale. Vapour travels directly from the device into the lungs. A loose and airy draw allows for greater airflow. Large vapour clouds and a smoother inhale define this technique.

• Experience: A DTL approach produces thick vapour clouds. A milder throat hit makes the inhale less harsh. The technique enhances flavour without excessive sharpness.

• Best Suited For: Experienced vapers and cloud chasers prefer DTL vaping. Users who enjoy flavourful exhales also find this method appealing.

• Devices Used: Sub-ohm pod systems, box mods, and rebuildable atomisers suit DTL vaping. These devices require high-wattage output and adjustable airflow settings.

• E-Liquids: High-VG e-liquids optimise vapour production. Lower nicotine strengths prevent harshness and enhance smoothness.

RDL (Restricted-Direct-Lung) Vaping

RDL vaping offers a middle ground between MTL and DTL. A tighter draw than DTL but a looser inhale than MTL defines this technique. The vapour enters the lungs directly but with restricted airflow.

• Experience: A strong flavour presence combines with moderate vapour production. A balanced throat hit creates a satisfying inhale.

• Best Suited For: Users who want more vapour than MTL but less than DTL prefer this style. Intermediate vapers find RDL vaping comfortable.

• Devices Used: Adjustable pod mods and sub-ohm tanks with medium resistance coils perform well. These devices allow fine-tuned airflow control.

• E-Liquids: A mix of PG and VG in the e-liquid suits this method. Medium nicotine strengths maintain a smooth but noticeable throat hit.

Comparisons Between MTL, DTL, and RDL

How Do You Inhale a Vape in Different Vaping Styles?

Each vaping style follows a specific inhalation technique. A proper method ensures maximum satisfaction and comfort.

How to Inhale Using MTL?

1. Draw the vapour into the mouth slowly and steadily.

2. Hold the vapour briefly to absorb the flavour.

3. Take a second inhale to pull the vapour into the lungs.

4. Exhale gently.

Tips: A slow draw prevents coil overheating. A higher nicotine strength improves the throat hit.

How to Inhale Using DTL?

1. Take a deep and continuous inhale directly into the lungs.

2. Maintain a steady breath to avoid harshness.

3. Exhale for thick vapour production.

Tips: Adjusting airflow increases vapour density. A lower nicotine concentration ensures a smooth inhale.

How to Inhale Using RDL?

1. Inhale directly into the lungs with moderate restriction.

2. Keep the airflow slightly closed for a tighter draw.

3. Exhale at a steady pace.

Tips: A balanced airflow setting enhances control. A mid-range nicotine level maintains smoothness.

What Are the Best Devices for Each Vaping Style?

A vaping device should match the user’s vaping style for the best experience. A pod vape kit, box mod, or rebuildable atomizer caters to different preferences. A closer look at the best devices for MTL, DTL, and RDL vaping helps vapers find the perfect fit.

What Are the Best Devices for MTL Vaping?

A mouth-to-lung (MTL) vaping style replicates the experience of smoking cigarettes. A tight draw, low vapour production, and strong throat hit define this method. A vape kit designed for MTL enhances nicotine satisfaction while keeping vapour output minimal.

• MTL Kits & Pod Vape Kits
  A compact and refillable pod vape kit provides a simple and efficient way to enjoy nicotine salt e-liquids. A low-wattage vape kit ensures a smooth experience with a tighter draw.

• Disposables
  A pre-filled and draw-activated disposable vape kit suits beginners who prefer hassle-free vaping. A lightweight and portable design makes disposables ideal for on-the-go use.

• MTL Tanks
  A specialized MTL tank delivers a tight airflow and controlled vapour output. A high-resistance coil setup ensures a satisfying throat hit while maximizing e-liquid efficiency.

What Are the Best Devices for DTL Vaping?

A direct-to-lung (DTL) vaping style prioritizes large vapour clouds and intense flavour. A low-resistance coil, increased airflow, and higher wattage settings define this method. A high-performance vape kit enhances cloud production while maintaining flavour intensity.

• DTL Kits & Sub-Ohm Pods
  A sub-ohm pod vape kit delivers powerful cloud production with a smooth inhale. A low-resistance coil design allows for increased vapour output.

• Box Mods
  A box mod vape kit provides customizable wattage, airflow, and coil options. A powerful battery and adjustable settings make these devices perfect for advanced vapers.

• RDAs (Rebuildable Dripping Atomizers)
  A rebuildable dripping atomizer (RDA) vape kit offers full control over coil builds and e-liquid absorption. A custom coil setup enhances vapour production and flavour intensity.

What Are the Best Devices for RDL Vaping?

A restricted direct-to-lung (RDL) vaping style balances airflow control and vapour density. A medium-resistance coil and adjustable airflow define this method. A well-designed vape kit allows users to customize their draw for a smooth yet slightly restricted inhale.

• Adjustable Pod Mods
  A pod vape kit with airflow control provides precise draw adjustment. A mid-range wattage output ensures a balance between vapour production and throat hit.

• Sub-Ohm Tanks
  A medium-resistance coil vape kit delivers a restricted but smooth DTL inhale. A sub-ohm tank with customizable airflow settings allows users to fine-tune their experience.

A properly selected vape kit enhances the MTL, DTL, or RDL vaping experience. A well-matched device ensures optimal vapour production, throat hit, and flavour intensity, making vaping more enjoyable.

What Are the Different Types of E-Liquids for Vaping Styles?

E-liquids play a crucial role in shaping the vaping experience. The composition, nicotine strength, and PG/VG ratio determine how the liquid interacts with different devices and vaping styles. Choosing the right e-liquid enhances flavour, throat hit, vapour production, and overall satisfaction. Understanding the various types of e-liquids ensures a tailored vaping experience that matches individual preferences. 

E-liquids consist of four main components: propylene glycol (PG), vegetable glycerin (VG), nicotine (optional), and flavourings. The PG/VG ratio directly affects vapour density and throat sensation. Nicotine type and concentration influence the intensity of the hit. Selecting an e-liquid based on vaping style improves performance and comfort.

PG and VG affect throat hit, vapour production, and flavour intensity. High-PG e-liquids offer a strong throat hit, intense flavour, and low vapour, ideal for MTL vaping. High-VG e-liquids create smooth inhales, dense clouds, and mild flavour, perfect for DTL vaping. Balanced PG/VG blends provide a moderate throat hit, vapour, and flavour.

What Are the Different Types of Nicotine E-Liquids?

Nicotine e-liquids come in different forms. The type of nicotine affects absorption rate, throat hit, and vaping style compatibility.

Nicotine Salt E-Liquids

Nicotine salt e-liquids contain a refined form of nicotine designed for a smoother vaping experience. The composition allows nicotine to be absorbed quickly, delivering fast satisfaction with less harshness on the throat. This type of e-liquid is ideal for those who prefer a strong nicotine hit without the discomfort of a rough inhale. The formulation makes high-strength nicotine more tolerable, making it a great choice for smokers transitioning to vaping.

A high PG content ensures efficient nicotine delivery and minimal vapour production. The thin consistency works well with pod systems and disposable vapes, allowing coils to wick efficiently. Nicotine salt e-liquids typically come in strengths of 10mg, 20mg, 30mg, or 50mg, providing various options for different nicotine needs. MTL vapers benefit the most from these e-liquids, as they closely replicate the sensation of smoking. Those looking for a discreet vaping experience with a strong yet smooth throat hit will find nicotine salts to be the best option.

Freebase Nicotine E-Liquids

Freebase nicotine e-liquids use a traditional form of nicotine that produces a stronger throat hit. The formulation takes longer to absorb into the bloodstream, resulting in a more gradual nicotine effect. The harshness of freebase nicotine increases with strength, making high concentrations more intense. This type of e-liquid is popular among vapers who enjoy a noticeable throat hit similar to smoking a cigarette.

The vapour production of freebase nicotine e-liquids depends on the PG/VG ratio. A higher PG content provides a sharper throat hit and more flavour, while a higher VG content produces smoother vapour with large clouds. Common nicotine strengths include 3mg, 6mg, 12mg, and 18mg, catering to both casual and experienced vapers. These e-liquids work best in sub-ohm tanks and high-wattage devices designed for DTL and RDL vaping. Those who enjoy a strong hit and a traditional cigarette-like sensation prefer freebase nicotine.

Hybrid Nicotine E-Liquids

Hybrid nicotine e-liquids combine freebase nicotine and nicotine salts to create a balanced experience. The mixture allows for quick nicotine absorption while maintaining a moderate throat hit. This balance makes hybrid nicotine a great option for vapers who want the best of both worlds. The inhale remains smooth but still delivers a noticeable hit, making it ideal for those who find freebase nicotine too harsh or nicotine salts too mild.

Hybrid nicotine e-liquids are available in strengths like 10mg and 20mg, making them suitable for both moderate and heavy nicotine users. Vapour production varies depending on the PG/VG ratio, allowing users to choose a formulation that matches their preference. These e-liquids are compatible with both MTL and RDL devices, including pod systems and low-wattage mods. Those seeking a balance between smoothness and throat hit will find hybrid nicotine e-liquids to be a suitable choice.

What Are the Key Factors That Affect Your Vaping Style?

• Inhalation Technique – The way vapor is drawn into the lungs determines the vaping style.

• Nicotine Strength – Higher nicotine suits MTL vaping, while lower nicotine works best for DTL.

• Vapor Production – DTL vaping generates the most vapor, while MTL is more discreet.

• Flavor Preferences – MTL enhances flavor intensity, whereas DTL provides a smoother experience.

How to Vape: A Complete Guide to Inhaling and Exhaling Techniques

Is MTL, DTL, or RDL Better?

The Best Style depends on what you prioritize. MTL feels closest to smoking and supports high nicotine levels. DTL produces massive clouds and a smooth experience. RDL offers the best of both worlds. Many vapers experiment with all three before settling on their preferred style.

• MTL (Mouth-to-Lung) Vaping is ideal for smokers transitioning to vaping. This method delivers a sharp throat hit, a strong nicotine effect, and a discreet vapour output. High nicotine strength and nicotine salts work best with MTL devices, making it a great choice for those seeking cigarette-like satisfaction.

• DTL (Direct-to-Lung) Vaping suits experienced vapers who enjoy large clouds and smooth inhales. This method works best with high-VG e-liquids and sub-ohm coils. Lower nicotine strengths prevent harshness, making it ideal for flavour chasers and cloud enthusiasts.

• RDL (Restricted-Direct-Lung) Vaping provides a middle ground. A tighter draw than DTL but more airflow than MTL makes this method versatile. Moderate vapour production, a balanced throat hit, and flexible e-liquid compatibility allow vapers to fine-tune their experience.

What Are the Different Ways of Vaping?

The three primary inhalation techniques define the different ways of vaping:

• MTL – Mimics cigarette smoking, focusing on throat hit and high-nicotine intake.

• DTL – Maximizes vapor production, offering a deep, smooth draw.

• RDL – Strikes a balance, combining aspects of both MTL and DTL.

Each method shapes the vaping experience by influencing throat hit, vapor output, and flavor intensity. Choosing the right style ensures maximum satisfaction.