How to Choose the Right Nicotine Strength Based on Your Smoking Habits

Going from smoking to vaping can be a little confusing, but one of the most important things to learn is what strength nicotine you need. This can be worked out based on how may cigarettes you smoke. In this blog we will go over what nicotine strength you need based on how many cigarettes you smoke to hopefully make your choice easier. 

Understanding Nicotine Strength in E-Liquids 

E-liquids come in a range of nicotine strengths, typically measured in milligrams (mg). The most common strengths include: 

• 0mg – Nicotine-free 
• 3mg – Very low nicotine 
• 6mg – Low nicotine 
• 12mg – Medium nicotine 
• 18mg – High nicotine 
• 20mg+ – Very high nicotine, suitable for heavy smokers 

Now, let’s break it down based on your smoking habits. 

Nicotine Recommendation Based on Cigarette Consumption 

1-5 Cigarettes Per Day (Light Smokers) 

• Recommended Nicotine Strength: 3mg to 6mg 
• Best E-Liquid Type: Freebase nicotine or low-strength nicotine salts 
• Why? As a light smoker, you need only a small amount of nicotine to curb cravings. A lower strength will allow you to enjoy vaping without excessive throat hit or getting too much nicotine.

5-10 Cigarettes Per Day (Moderate Smokers) 

• Recommended Nicotine Strength: 6mg to 12mg 
• Best E-Liquid Type: Freebase nicotine or mid-strength nicotine salts 
• Why? A moderate smoker requires a bit more nicotine to feel satisfied. Opting for a middle-range strength will help mimic the nicotine intake you’re used to. 

10-20 Cigarettes Per Day (Heavy Smokers) 

• Recommended Nicotine Strength: 12mg to 18mg 
• Best E-Liquid Type: Higher freebase nicotine or nicotine salts 
• Why? As a heavy smoker, you need a stronger dose to prevent withdrawal symptoms. A higher nicotine level will replicate the sensation of smoking more closely. 

20+ Cigarettes Per Day (Very Heavy Smokers) 

Should You Use Freebase Nicotine or Nicotine Salts? 

• Freebase Nicotine: Best for those who prefer a stronger throat hit and a traditional smoking sensation. Works well in standard vape pens and sub-ohm devices. 
• Nicotine Salts: Ideal for people looking for a smoother inhale and a quicker nicotine hit. Best used in pod systems or low-wattage devices for an experience closer to disposable vapes. 

Adjusting Your Nicotine Level Over Time 

When switching to vaping, it’s normal to start at a higher nicotine strength and gradually reduce it over time. Many vapers decrease their nicotine levels as they become more comfortable with vaping, eventually reaching lower strengths or even going nicotine-free. 

Final Thoughts 

Finding the right nicotine strength is essential for a successful switch from smoking to vaping. By matching your nicotine level to your previous smoking habits, you’ll improve your chances of a smooth transition and reduce cravings effectively. 

If you’re unsure, start with a mid-range strength and adjust as needed. Remember, vaping is about finding what works best for you! 

Looking for high-quality e-liquids with the perfect nicotine strength? Check out our range at Vapourium and start your smoke-free journey today! 

FAQ  

Should I start with a higher nicotine level and taper down over time?

 Not necessarily, if you pick a strength that’s too much, you be more likely to be put off by the vape and carry on smoking. Same with if you start with lower strengths – it may not curb the craving causing you not to be able to give up smoking. Finding the right nicotine strength depends on personal circumstances and the device you pick. Our guide above is a good starting point to picking up the right nicotine strength for you.  

What signs indicate that my chosen nicotine strength is too high? 

Symptoms like headaches, nausea and sore throat can be telling you to lower your nicotine, especially if you’re barely touching your vape. On the other hand, if you can’t stop using your vape and experience these symptoms, your body might be telling you to increase your nicotine strength instead. 

Can I mix different nicotine strengths to fine‑tune my experience?

You absolutely can! mixing different nicotine strengths, or even different flavours, can work in your favour! we just wouldn’t recommend mixing more than 2-3 different flavours in the same pod as that might burn out your coil too quickly.  

How can I safely reduce my nicotine strength over time without craving spikes?

Listen to your body – it’ll tell you when you’re ready to cut down and don’t worry too much if you use it more frequently for the first couple of weeks as it takes a while for your body to get used to less nicotine. It might make it easier for you to pick a slightly more powerful coil for the first few weeks as well to counteract less nicotine consumption.