Is 2% nicotine in vapes too much? If you're new to vaping or switching from cigarettes, this is one of the most common and important  questions you’ll face. With an ever-growing variety of e-liquids and devices in the UK and beyond, understanding nicotine levels like 2% (or 20mg/mL) can make all the difference in choosing a vape that suits your needs.

This updated 2025 guide answers that question with real-life context, expert knowledge, and rich detail. We cover everything from how 2% compares to smoking, what devices it pairs with best, when it’s too strong, and when it might actually be just right.

What Does 2% Nicotine Mean?

2% nicotine means there are 20 milligrams of nicotine per milliliter (mg/mL) of vape liquid. You might also see this labeled as 20mg strength  they mean the same thing. Here’s a quick comparison of nicotine percentages and their milligram equivalents:

This is the maximum strength legally allowed for nicotine-containing e-liquids in the UK and EU, under the Tobacco Products Directive (TPD). Most 2% vape liquids are nicotine salts, not freebase — a key detail we’ll explain shortly.

Nicotine Strengths Explained

There is a wide range of e-liquids with different nicotine strengths available on the market, labeled either in mg/mL or percentage. These include 0mg/0%, 3mg/0.3%, 5mg/0.5%, 6mg/0.6%, 10mg/1%, 11mg/1.1%, 12mg/1.2%, 18mg/1.8%, and 20mg/2%. Choosing the right strength should reflect your smoking habits. Some levels are better for mouth-to-lung (MTL) devices, which produce less vapour and work well with higher strengths — while others suit direct-to-lung (DTL) vaping, offering more vapour and needing lower strengths.

General guide:

• 0mg–5mg: social or rare smokers
  

• 6mg–11mg: light smokers
  

• 12mg–17mg: average smokers
  

• 18mg–20mg: heavy smokers
  

If you're looking for a stronger hit, you’ll want a higher nicotine concentration.

Who Typically Uses 2% Nicotine?

• Heavy smokers (20+ cigarettes/day)

• Recent quitters looking for a quick, satisfying alternative

• Disposable vape users (like Elf Bar or Lost Mary)

• People who use vape pods or MTL (mouth-to-lung) systems

Realistically, most people who buy 2% vapes do so because they need strong nicotine satisfaction without harshness. Nicotine salts allow for this, giving a smoother throat hit even at high strengths.

"I used to smoke 15–20 cigarettes daily and felt anxious when switching to vaping. My first 10mg vape wasn’t enough — but 2% nic salts made the transition way smoother." – Zara, 32, Birmingham

Is 2% Nicotine Strong? Yes, But Context Matters

Yes 2% (20mg/mL) is considered high strength. But your device, puff style, and frequency play a major role in how strong it feels:

• Pod system (low vapor output) = smoother, slower delivery

• Sub-ohm device (big clouds) = not suitable for 2%, might cause harshness

• MTL puffs (cigarette-like) vs. DTL inhales (deep lung hits)

When 2% Might Be Too Strong:

• You only smoke occasionally or socially

• You’re sensitive to stimulants

• You get lightheaded or dizzy after a few puffs

When 2% Might Be Right:

• You’re quitting cigarettes and want quick relief

• You don’t vape constantly — just when cravings hit

• You’re using compact MTL devices or disposables

Nicotine Salts vs Freebase Nicotine: Know the Difference

Most high-strength vapes today use nicotine salts, especially at the 20mg level. Here’s how they compare:

Nicotine Salts:

• Created by adding benzoic acid to nicotine

• Smoother on the throat, even at high strength

• Faster absorption (similar to smoking)

• Common in disposables and pod systems

Freebase Nicotine:

• Harsher throat hit at 12mg+

• Slower absorption

• Common in traditional vape juice (sub-ohm)

TL;DR: 2% vapes = usually nic salts = smoother and stronger hit

 How 2% Nicotine Compares to Cigarettes

Depending on your device and how long you vape, a 2mL pod can equal or exceed a pack of cigarettes in total nicotine delivery.

Is 2% Nicotine Too Much for You?

Wondering if 2% nicotine is the right strength for you? Ask yourself the following questions to decide. Do you smoke more than 10 cigarettes daily? If yes, then 2% nicotine may be suitable for your needs. Do you feel dizzy, jittery, or uncomfortable after vaping? If that’s the case, you should consider reducing your nicotine strength. 

Are you trying to vape less overall or slowly taper off nicotine? Then it might be a good time to step down to a lower strength. For light or occasional smokers, it’s often better to start with 10mg (1%) or even less. Lower strengths are usually more comfortable, especially for new vapers or those who don’t use nicotine regularly.

 Side Effects of Vaping 20mg Nicotine

Like any stimulant, nicotine can cause side effects — especially at higher levels. Be alert if you notice:

• Nausea

• Headaches

• Increased heart rate

• Dizziness

• Dry throat or coughing

• Irritability or trouble sleeping

 If this happens, take a break or switch to lower strength (10mg or 5mg).

Updated Market Trends (2025)

• UK Disposable Sales: 2% nicotine still dominates the disposable market

• Pod Systems: Demand rising for refillable pods with customizable nicotine strengths

• Youth Vaping Restrictions: Tighter regulations pushing new vapers to 10mg caps

• Nicotine Pouches & Zero-Nic Options: Rising interest in non-vape alternatives

 How to Reduce Nicotine: A Safe Step-Down Plan

1. Start at 20mg (2%) if you're a heavy smoker

2. After 2–4 weeks, drop to 12mg–10mg (1–1.2%)

3. Switch to hybrid or freebase at 6mg (0.6%)

4. Optional: taper to 3mg, 0mg, or stop completely

Use vape tracking apps or refillable pods to control your intake.

Recommended Devices for 2% Nicotine in 2025

If you're using 2% nicotine, avoid powerful sub-ohm devices. These are the best low-wattage MTL (mouth-to-lung) options:

• Lost Mary BM600 – great for smooth hits

• Elf Bar 600 – user-friendly disposable

• Oxva Xlim SE 2 – refillable pod with airflow control

• Vaporesso Luxe QS – smart and customizable
  

These devices deliver nicotine effectively without overwhelming your throat.

 Final Thoughts: Should You Vape 2%?

2% nicotine is strong, and that’s the point. It’s made for people who need help quitting cigarettes, not for casual use or new vapers with no nicotine history.

If you're looking for fast relief, high satisfaction, and a realistic smoking alternative, 2% could be the perfect starting point.

But if you find yourself vaping too often, feeling jittery, or uncomfortable, don’t ignore the signs. Drop down to 10mg or less and monitor how you feel.

You’ll always find smart strength options and beginner-friendly kits at Vape4World, whether you're stepping down or just starting out.

FAQs

Is 2% nicotine legal in the UK?

Yes. 20mg/mL is the maximum allowed under UK/EU law.

Will 2% nicotine make me addicted?

If used frequently, yes. Use responsibly and taper down if needed.

How does 2% nicotine feel?

It’s strong — similar to 1–2 cigarettes in one session. Expect a quick hit.

Can I vape 2% all day?

It’s not recommended. If you need to vape frequently, try 10mg or lower.

What's the difference between 2% and 5% nicotine?

5% is 50mg/mL — over twice as strong as 2% and not allowed in the UK/EU.

How many puffs is 2% equal to?

A 2mL pod of 2% nicotine usually lasts 600 puffs, similar to a pack of cigarettes.

Is 2% nicotine suitable for first-time vapers?

Usually not. It’s best to start with 6mg–10mg unless you're quitting heavy smoking.