As more consumers switch to refillable kits, especially with rumors of a UK ban on disposable vapes, many people are asking whether e-liquids, coils, or pods are preferred over other options. A common question popped up: "What's the difference between nic shots and nic salts?" Let's break it down in the simplest way possible.

What Is a Nic Shot?

A nic shot, as the name suggests, is a small bottle of liquid containing 10ml of nicotine. These have around 18mg strength, but there are ones available at 11mg through to 20mg. It is mainly used to mix it with a larger bottle of e-liquid (that is known as a shortfill), which doesn't already contain nicotine. It will then create more e-liquid in a separate bottle that you can vape as well as containing nicotine.

The reason that the big bottles of e-liquid do not contain nicotine is because of a UK regulation. The regulation states that containing nicotine e-liquids cannot be sold in bottles any bigger than 10ml.

Therefore, nic shots exist so you can add the nicotine to a shortfill if necessary.

What Is a Nic Salt?

Nicotine salts, sometimes referred to as nic salts, are another distinct form of nicotine that comes directly from the tobacco leaf. Nic salts are also smoother on the throat, with almost an instant nicotine hit, which explains why they have become so very popular amongst new vapers.

For those who detest the kind of hardcore throat hit present in most ordinary nicotine e-liquids, nic salts are excellent. They are particularly useful for smokers quitting smoking because they provide an immediate satisfying hit without any uncomfortable feeling.

What is a Nic Salt Shot?

A nic salt shot would be the combination of both a nicotine shot and a nicotine salt. It is supposed to add to larger bottles of e-liquid, just like a regular nic shot; however, it uses nicotine salt, which thus provides that smooth hit that regular nicotine lacks.

The best way to obtain nic salts is by adding them to shortfills. In this regard, you will get the benefits of nic salts in a bigger bottle of e-liquid. Some people use nic salts as tasteless e-liquids. Although not as usual compared to the regular nic shots, nic salt shots become very common.

Differences Between Nic Shots and Nic Salts

The real difference between the two types of nicotine is what characterizes them. For the most part, nic shots are freebase nicotine, which may feel harsher in your throat at higher strengths. Nic salts give a smoother vape and absorb faster for a more smoking-like experience.

Another difference is the way they are used. Nic shots are mainly added to shortfills while nic salts come pre-mixed in bottles ready for vaping. Nic salt shots combine the benefits of nic shots, though with a smoother experience just like nic salts.

Does the VG/PG Ratio Matter?

Yes, it does make a difference in the ratio of VG: to PG. The most common strength for nicotine shots comes in 70VG/30PG, which is better for devices creating much larger clouds of vapor. Generally, nic salts will appear at 50VG/50PG and work well with mouth-to-lung devices that feel close to smoking.

You must match the VG/PG ratio of the nic shot to the shortfill you are going to use. If these will not match up then expect leakage or burnt coils. Use the right VG/PG ratio for your vape device.

Can I Use Nic Shots Just Like Any Other Regular E-Liquid?

Technically speaking you could vape nic shots neat, but it is not really intended as such. Nic shots don't have flavor and are usually not sold for direct vaping purposes but are intended to be added to shortfills to make up the full strength e-liquid.

Pre-mixed nic salts are the better choice if you seek a readymade option. There is also a wide range of flavors and nicotine strengths in the pre-mixed nic salts, which are ready to vape straight from the bottle.

Can you add nic salts to shortfills?

Yes, you can add nic salts to shortfills. Many vapers prefer to do this because they can benefit from the smoothness of nic salts in a larger bottle of e-liquid. This happens to be increasingly the most popular option among vapers who seek the benefits of nic salts but cannot compromise on shortfall convenience.

Adding nic salt shots to shortfills is simple and a cost-effective way to get more out of your e-liquid, but be sure that the VG/PG ratio will match the shortfill you are using so that your vape device works correctly.

Which Option Is Right for You?

The choice between nic shots and nic salts is purely your preference. But if you want large bottles of e-liquid and you intend to control the amount of nicotine, then nic shots are a good choice. This is suitable for sub-ohm devices that help produce big clouds of vapor.

Whereas those who are smoking but could switch to vaping or perhaps prefer a smoother hit, nic salts will be of use to them. They are great with mouth-to-lung devices due to fast nicotine delivery and a soft, silky feel.