10ml Vape Liquids vs Shortfills: What’s the Difference?

When you’re browsing e-liquids, two terms you’re bound to come across are 10ml vape liquids and shortfills. But what exactly do they mean, and how do you know which one is right for you? 

Whether you’re a new vaper or looking to fine-tune your vaping experience, understanding the difference between these two types of e-liquids is essential. In this guide, we’ll break down the differences, which devices they suit, and who they’re best for. 

What Are 10ml Vape Liquids?

10ml vape liquids, often referred to as nicotine e-liquids, are pre-mixed, ready-to-vape juices that come in small 10ml bottles. They are TPD-compliant, meaning they meet all UK and EU regulations for nicotine-containing products. 


Key Features:

• Contain nicotine (typically 3mg, 6mg, 12mg, or 18mg for freebase, 5mg, 10mg or 20mg for salt) 
• Available in a wide range of flavours 
• Convenient and ready to use 
• Ideal for mouth-to-lung (MTL) vaping 
• Great for lower-powered vape kits and pod systems

👉 Explore our 10ml e-liquid collection for top-selling brands and flavours.

What Are Shortfills?

Shortfills are larger bottles of nicotine-free e-liquid, typically 50ml or 100ml in size, with extra space left in the bottle for you to add nicotine shots. They’re perfect for vapers who want more juice per bottle or prefer customising their nicotine strength. 
Key Features:

• Nicotine-free by default 
• Typically 70VG/30PG ratio (great for sub-ohm vaping), although more companies are starting to release thinner liquids in bigger bottles which are suitable for smaller devices 
• Designed for direct-to-lung (DTL) vape kits 
• Offer better value per ml 
• Must be mixed with a nicotine shot if you want nicotine, this is typically limited to 3mg or 6mg 



👉 Check out our Shortfill liquid range.

Which Devices Are They Made For?

Type of E-Liquid	Best Suited For	Device Type
10ml E-Liquids	MTL vapers, higher nicotine needs	Starter kits, pod systems
Shortfills	DTL vapers, cloud chasers, low nicotine or 0mg	Sub-ohm vape kits, high-wattage mods

If you’re using a smaller, lower-powered device, 10ml vape liquids with higher PG content will give you a satisfying throat hit and faster nicotine delivery. But if you’re into big clouds and bold flavour, shortfills with high VG are the way to go. 

Which Type of Vaper Are You?

To help you decide, here’s a quick comparison of which kind of vaper suits each type of e-liquid best: 

10ml Vape Liquids Are Best For:

• New vapers or those quitting smoking 
• People who need higher nicotine strengths 
• Those who prefer a strong throat hit 
• Users of compact, discreet devices 

Shortfills Are Best For:

• Experienced vapers who enjoy big clouds 
• Vapers looking for better value in larger quantities 
• Users who prefer lower nicotine or 0mg 
• Custom flavour and nicotine blending fans 

Final Thoughts: Which Should You Choose?

Both 10ml vape liquids and shortfills have their place in the vaping world. Your ideal choice depends on your device, vaping style, and nicotine preferences. 

• If you’re just starting out or rely on higher nicotine strength, stick with 10ml e-liquids. 
• If you’re chasing clouds or want more bang for your buck, try a shortfill setup. 

Still unsure? Our team at Vapourium is here to help. Whether you’re building your perfect vape kit or need flavour recommendations, we’ve got you covered.