What Is Shortfill E-Liquid?
Shortfill e-liquid is a nicotine-free vape juice that comes in larger bottles, intentionally underfilled to leave space for nicotine shots. These e-liquids typically come in sizes like 50ml or 100ml, ensuring compliance with the Tobacco Products Directive (TPD). Shortfills allow manufacturers to sell bigger bottles without adhering to the regulations that apply to nicotine-containing e-liquids. These vape juices give vapers the flexibility to customise their nicotine strength by adding nic shots as needed.
How Do Shortfill E-Liquids Work?
Shortfill e-liquids work by providing a convenient way for vapers to add nicotine shots to achieve their preferred nicotine level.
- Underfilled Bottles: Shortfills come in bottles that are not completely full, leaving space for nicotine shots. A 60ml bottle may contain 50ml of liquid, while a 120ml bottle may hold 100ml.
- Adding Nicotine: These e-liquids require vapers to add nicotine shots, which are small concentrated nicotine bottles, to increase nicotine strength.
- Customisation: These vape juices provide a flexible system where users can control nicotine intake based on personal preferences.
How to Mix Nicotine with Shortfill E-Liquid?
Mixing nicotine with shortfill e-liquid requires a simple process to ensure even distribution.
- Remove the cap and nozzle from the shortfill bottle.
- Open the nicotine shot and remove its cap.
- Pour the entire nic shot into the shortfill bottle.
- Secure the nozzle and cap back onto the shortfill bottle.
- Shake the bottle thoroughly for at least 5-10 minutes to ensure complete mixing.
- Let the liquid settle for a few minutes before vaping.
How to Calculate Nicotine Strength for Shortfill E-Liquids?
Calculating nicotine strength for shortfill e-liquids depends on bottle size and desired nicotine level.
50ml Shortfill E-Liquid: A 60ml bottle contains 50ml of liquid, leaving space for one 10ml nic shot.
- For 3mg nicotine: Add one 10ml nicotine shot (18mg or 20mg).
- For 6mg nicotine: Add two 10ml nicotine shots, but remove some e-liquid to create space.
100ml Shortfill E-Liquid: A 120ml bottle holds 100ml of liquid, leaving space for two 10ml nic shots.
For 3mg nicotine: Add two 10ml nicotine shots (18mg or 20mg).
- Online nicotine calculators can help determine the exact mixing ratio for different nicotine strengths.
What Are the Benefits of Shortfill E-Liquids?
Shortfill e-liquids offer several advantages, making them a preferred choice for many vapers.
- Cost-Effective: Provides more vape juice for the price compared to purchasing multiple 10ml bottles.
- Customisation: Allows vapers to control nicotine intake by adding their preferred nic shot strength.
- Less Waste: Reduces plastic waste, as they eliminate the need for multiple small bottles.
- Wider Compatibility: Available in various VG/PG ratios, making them suitable for different vape kits.
- Stronger Flavor: Contains a higher concentration of flavouring to compensate for dilution when nicotine is added.
- Greater Variety: Available in a vast range of flavours, including exclusive blends unavailable in pre-mixed nicotine e-liquids.
Are Shortfills Better Than Nic Salts?
No, shortfill e-liquids are not inherently better than nicotine salts, as both serve different vaping needs. These e-liquid types differ in bottle size, nicotine content, vaping compatibility, and customisation options. Choosing between shortfills and nicotine salts depends on individual vaping preferences, device compatibility, and nicotine strength requirements.
Shortfills cater to cloud chasers and those who prefer customisation, while nicotine salts provide a hassle-free, high-nicotine option for MTL vapers.
What Are the Best Vape Devices for Shortfill E-Liquids?
Shortfill e-liquids require the right vape device based on the VG/PG ratio.
- High VG Shortfill E-Liquids (70/30 or 80/20 VG/PG):
- Best suited for sub-ohm vape kits with 0.6-ohm or lower resistance coils.
- Recommended devices: Voopoo Drag E60, GeekVape T200, Vaporesso Luxe X Pro, Voopoo Vinci 3.
- 50/50 VG/PG Shortfill E-Liquids:
- Compatible with MTL pod systems and vape kits with 0.7-ohm or higher resistance coils.
- Recommended devices: Argus P2, Aspire Gotek X.