Mouth-To-Lung (MTL), Restricted-Direct-To-Lung (RDTL) and Direct-to-Lung (DTL) Vaping: What’s the Difference?

There are three types of vaping styles: Mouth-To-Lung (MTL), Restricted-Direct-To-Lung (RDTL) and Direct-To-Lung (DTL). Each vaping style will provide a different experience allowing you to tailor your vaping to your preferences. This blog will help you choose what style you prefer and the differences between them.

What is Mouth-To-Lung (MTL) Vaping?

MTL vaping style closely mimics the sensation of smoking a traditional cigarette. The vapour is drawn into the mouth first and then inhaled into the lungs.

Key Characteristics:

• Tighter airflow, similar to smoking.
• Uses high-resistance coils (above 1.0Ω).
• Works best with lower wattage devices (10-20W).
• Produces less vapour but delivers stronger throat hits.
• Compatible with higher nicotine e-liquids (including nicotine salts).
• Best for people looking to quit smoking as it is the most similar to traditional cigarettes. 

Best Devices for MTL Vaping:

• Pod systems
• Vape pens
• Low-wattage starter kits
• Disposable vapes 

Who Should Choose MTL Vaping?

• Smokers transitioning to vaping as it’s the most similar draw style to cigarettes.
• Those who prefer discreet vapour production.
• Users who enjoy a stronger throat hit with higher nicotine levels.
• Looking for a vape similar to disposables. 

What is Restricted-Direct-to-Lung (RDTL) vaping?

RDTL vaping is a combination of different aspects of MTL and DTL vaping. This hybrid style of vaping offers a more balanced experience of flavour and vapour production.

Key Characteristics:

• It has a looser draw than traditional cigarettes.
• Mostly uses resistance between 0.6Ω and 1.0Ω.
• Vapour production between MTL and DTL.
• Works best with medium wattage devices (20-25W).

Best Devices for RDTL Vaping:

• Mainly higher wattage pod devices.

Who Should Choose RDTL Vaping?

• This Is mainly for users who want a little more vapour production then MTL but not as much as DTL.

What is Direct-To-Lung (DTL)Vaping?

DTL vaping involves inhaling vapour directly into the lungs, similar to taking a deep breath. This method is popular among cloud chasers and flavour enthusiasts.

Key Characteristics:

• Looser airflow for bigger clouds.
• Uses low-resistance (sub-ohm) coils (below 0.4Ω).
• Works best with higher wattage devices (30W+).
• Produces more vapour with a smoother throat hit.
• Best suited for lower nicotine e-liquids (typically 3-6mg).

Best Devices for DTL Vaping:

• Sub-ohm tanks
• Box mods
• High-wattage kits

Who Should Choose DTL Vaping?

• Users who enjoy large vapour clouds and bold flavours.
• Those who prefer a smoother inhale with lower nicotine levels.
• Vapers with experience using advanced devices.

MTL vs. DTL: Which One is Right for You?

Feature	MTL Vaping	RDTL Vaping	DTL Vaping
Inhalation Style	Mouth first, then lungs	Similar to direct-to- lung, just with a tighter draw	Directly into the lungs
Vapour Production	Low	Med	High
Nicotine Strength	Higher (10-20mg)	Lower (3-6mg)	Lower (3-6mg)
Throat Hit	Stronger	Med	Smoother
Best for Beginners	Yes	No	No
Best for Cloud Chasing	No	No	Yes

Final Thoughts

Choosing between MTL, RDTL and DTL vaping depends on your preferences and experience level. If you’re transitioning from smoking or prefer a strong throat hit, MTL vaping is a great choice. If you enjoy massive clouds and smooth inhales, DTL vaping is the way to go.

No matter your style, finding the right device and e-liquid will enhance your vaping experience. Check out our selection of vape kits at Vapourium to get started!

FAQ

Which style is more discreet?

MTL is more discreet as it produces less of a vapour cloud.

What is best for quitting smoking?

MTL is the best as it’s the closest draw style to cigarettes. 

Does nicotine strength matter?

 Absolutely! Using a nicotine strength that’s too high on a device that’s too powerful, will most likely result in coughing your guts out. The more power you get from the device, the less nicotine you want to put in it.  

Can I switch styles with the same device? 

Most pod systems these days will allow you to tailor the experience to how you prefer it. In most cases, it’s as easy as switching the pod or coil to the one you prefer.