Which e-liquid to choose when you're starting out? The guide
In short: to choose your first e-liquid, start with a flavor you like, then check the nicotine strength, the PG/VG ratio and compatibility with your equipment. Start with just one or two flavors.
Fruity, gourmand, classic, menthol, fresh: there are many options, plus the nicotine strength and the ratio between propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin. Which e-liquid should you choose when starting out? There is no single answer: the right choice depends on your tastes, your habits and your equipment.
1. Start with a flavor you like
The first criterion is taste: choosing a flavor you truly enjoy is essential to enjoy vaping.
Classic e-liquids
They draw on tobacco flavor profiles and suit people looking for an experience close to their smoking habits. Some are mild, others stronger or paired with gourmand, woody or sweet notes. See the tobacco e-liquids.
Fruity e-liquids
Strawberry, apple, peach, red berries, citrus, exotic fruit: a single fruit or several aromas combined. A family worth discovering if you naturally like fruit. See the fruity e-liquids.
Menthol and fresh e-liquids
They bring a more or less pronounced freshness; some pair mint with fruit, others go for a more direct freshness. Note that a menthol taste does not always mean strong freshness: sensations vary a lot. See the menthol e-liquids.
Gourmand e-liquids
Desserts, pastries, vanilla, caramel, coffee or other sweet worlds, for those who like rich flavors; some recipes blend fruity and gourmand notes. See the gourmand e-liquids and the guide choosing your e-liquid flavor.
2. Which nicotine strength?
Flavor is not the only criterion. The right dose depends on your consumption habits, your equipment and how you vape: there is no universal strength. If you are starting out, a professional's advice helps you pick a consistent liquid and device. Nicotine liquids are for adults; in France their strength is capped at 20 mg/ml. See which nicotine strength to choose.
3. PG/VG: what does it mean?
On bottles, PG stands for propylene glycol and VG for vegetable glycerin. PG is associated with strong flavor delivery and a more present throat sensation; VG with more abundant, softer vapor. The ratio should take your equipment into account. See PG/VG: what do the 70/30, 50/50 and 30/70 ratios change?
4. Which e-liquid for a pod?
Pods are compact devices that work with liquids suited to their coil and power: do not choose the liquid independently of your e-cigarette. Check the manufacturer's recommendations on coils and liquid composition, and ask for advice if in doubt. See which e-liquid for a pod?
5. Should you start with a single flavor?
It is tempting to buy several flavors at once, but starting with one or two helps you gradually identify what you like; you can explore other families afterwards. The 10 mL format lets you try several flavors before choosing a larger bottle.
6. Why can tastes change?
A flavor you liked at first may please you less after a few weeks: preferences change, especially with the same liquid every day. Varying flavor profiles from time to time helps you discover new recipes.
7. How to choose your first e-liquid
- Identify your tastes: fruit, mint, coffee, desserts, tobacco, drinks?
- Choose your nicotine strength, if any, according to your habits and use.
- Check compatibility with your equipment: PG/VG ratio and liquid characteristics.
- Start simple: one or two well-chosen flavors are enough.
8. Where to find e-liquids in Paris?
La Vapumerie offers a selection of e-liquids for different profiles and preferences, and our team can help you choose a flavor, a nicotine strength and a liquid compatible with your equipment. Discover all our e-liquids or visit one of our shops.
Conclusion
Remember four criteria: flavor, nicotine strength (when there is any), PG/VG ratio and compatibility with your e-cigarette. There is no universal "best e-liquid": the best choice matches your tastes and your equipment. If you do not have equipment yet, read how to choose your first e-cigarette.
FAQ
Which e-liquid should I choose when starting out?
Start with a flavor you enjoy and check it suits your equipment, taking nicotine strength and PG/VG ratio into account.
Can you use any e-liquid in a pod?
No: check the manufacturer's recommendations and choose a liquid suited to your pod and its coil.
What is the PG/VG ratio?
The proportions of propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin in the liquid: it affects flavor delivery, mouthfeel and the amount of vapor.
Informational content intended for adults. The nicotine in these products is highly addictive. Use by non-smokers is not recommended.