Sub-Ohming: The Ultimate Guide to Vaping

Sub-Ohming: The Ultimate Guide to Vaping

Sub-Ohming: The Ultimate Guide to Vaping

For many vapers, sub-ohm vaping represents the pinnacle of the vaping experience. If you've started with an easy-to-use mouth-to-lung (MTL) vape kit and are looking to explore new horizons, sub-ohming could be your next adventure. Imagine larger, denser clouds, more intense flavour, and lower nicotine levels—does that sound appealing? If so, sub-ohm vaping might be just what you're looking for.

While the concept can seem intimidating at first, there's no need to worry. We're here to guide you through the essentials. In this guide, we’ll break down what sub-ohm vaping is, how it works, why it’s popular, and how you can get started. Ready to embrace the world of big clouds and bold flavours? Let’s dive in!

 

What Is Sub-Ohm Vaping?

 

Sub-ohm vaping is like turbo-charging your vaping experience.

 

In the early days of vaping, options were limited. Cig-a-like devices—those early, cigarette-style e-cigs—offered minimal flavour, a weak nicotine hit, and barely any vapour production. While they served as a starting point, they left much to be desired.

Fast forward to today, and vaping technology has dramatically evolved. One of the standout advancements is sub-ohm vaping, a method designed for those seeking bigger clouds, richer flavor, and a more intense experience.

Sub-ohm vaping involves using a device with a coil resistance below 1 ohm (hence the name). By reducing resistance, sub-ohm devices allow for higher wattages, generating more heat and producing massive vapour clouds. Paired with the right e-liquid, sub-ohm vaping delivers bold flavours and smooth hits, often with lower nicotine content.

This innovative approach has turned vaping from a simple smoking alternative into a customizable and exciting hobby. Sub-ohm vaping opens up new possibilities for those ready to explore what modern vaping technology can truly offer.

Sub-ohm vaping uses an e-cigarette with a coil that has a resistance of less than 1.0 ohm. If the symbol Ω (ohm) doesn’t mean much to you, don’t worry—the results will speak for themselves!

 

Sub-Ohm Vaping Offers:

 

  • Higher Power Outputs: More wattage for bigger and better performance.
  • Higher Firing Temperature: Unlock the full potential of your e-liquid with warmer, more intense vapor.
  • Beastly Clouds and Epic Flavour: Enjoy massive vapour production paired with bold, rich flavor that’s hard to beat.
  • A Truly Personalized Vaping Experience: Tailor your setup to your preferences, from wattage and airflow to e-liquid choices, for a completely unique session.

Sub-ohm vaping isn’t just about the technical specs—it’s about transforming your vape into an expression of your style and taste.

 

Why Sub-Ohm Vape?

 

Because it’s simply better. Sure, you could load up on all the Fruit Pastilles or Blue Crystal e-liquids in the world, but if you’re not sub-ohm vaping, even Heisenberg might be disappointed.

The Perks of Sub-Ohm Vaping

  • Monstrous Cloud Production:
    Sub-ohm vaping is the go-to for cloud chasers. It generates thicker, denser, and bigger clouds, making high VG e-liquids shine. While blowing a nuclear-sized cloud might not be office-doorway appropriate, in vape-friendly spaces, it’s truly a sight to behold. Many vapers keep a discreet pen for public use but save their sub-ohm setups for home cloud-chasing sessions.

  • Smoother, More Intense Flavour:
    While high-PG liquids for mouth-to-lung (MTL) devices are decent on flavour, sub-ohm setups elevate it to a whole new level. High VG liquids, like Zombie Vape’s 50ml 70/30 range  are specifically designed for sub-ohm vaping. With flavours like Blackcurrant Lemonade, Kiwi Passionfruit Guava, and Strawberry Slush, your taste buds are in for a treat.

  • A Satisfying Lung Hit:
    Sub-ohm vaping caters to those who want a direct lung hit, offering a powerful and deep inhale. Unlike MTL vaping, which mimics the sensation of smoking, direct-to-lung (DTL) vaping delivers a smooth, unrestricted flow of vapour straight into your lungs. It’s an entirely different experience that’s highly satisfying for lung-hit enthusiasts.

  • Enjoyment Over Nicotine Hits:
    Sub-ohm vaping focuses on the enjoyment of the experience—massive clouds, rich flavour, and smooth vapour—rather than the nicotine rush. While you can still get your fix with your preferred nicotine strength or cost-saving short fills, the emphasis is on pleasure rather than necessity. Additionally, sub-ohm vaping uses high VG liquids, resulting in less throat hit compared to high PG blends.

If you’re ready to trade basic for bold and elevate your vape game, sub-ohm vaping is where it’s at.

 

How Do You Sub-Ohm?

 

Back in the "dark ages" of vaping, sub-ohm vaping was a hands-on craft. It required understanding Ohm's Law, manually wrapping your own wires, checking resistance, and mastering the art of wicking and dripping. While these skills are still valued by enthusiasts, modern vaping technology has made sub-ohm vaping far more accessible.

Modern Sub-Ohm Vaping Made Easy

 

Today, sub-ohm tanks have revolutionized the experience. These tanks are built with pre-made low-resistance coils (below 1.0 ohm) that are optimized for high wattage and impressive vapour production. You don’t need to be an engineering whiz—just pair a good sub-ohm tank with a mod capable of pushing 40 watts or more of power, and you’re set for an epic vaping experience.

Sub-ohm tanks deliver performance that rivals even the most finely-tuned handmade coils. They combine simplicity and power, letting you enjoy massive clouds and bold flavors without the technical setup.

The Technique: Direct to Lung (DTL) Inhaling

Sub-ohm vaping also changes how you inhale compared to traditional mouth-to-lung (MTL) vaping:

  • MTL Style:
    Drag vapor into your mouth first, then inhale into your lungs—similar to smoking a cigarette.

  • DTL Style (Sub-Ohm):
    Skip the mouth and draw vapour directly into your lungs with a deep inhale. This method works best with increased airflow, low-PG/high-VG juices, and the higher power delivered by sub-ohm mods. The result? Bigger clouds, smoother hits, and intensified flavour.

 

With modern equipment, all you need is a quality sub-ohm tank, a capable mod, and the right e-liquid to dive into the world of super-charged clouds and powerful flavour.

 

Coil Resistance - What Is It And How Low Can You Go?

 

Coil resistance is a key factor in vaping, directly affecting your device's performance and the experience it delivers. But what does resistance mean, and how does it relate to sub-ohm vaping?

 

What Is Coil Resistance?

 

Resistance, measured in Ohms (Ω), is the degree to which an electrical current is impeded as it flows through the wire in your vape coil. Lower resistance means more current can pass through, leading to higher power output and, in vaping terms, bigger clouds, hotter vapor, and bolder flavor.

  • Standard Coils: Typically have a resistance of 1.2–2.0 Ohms, designed for mouth-to-lung vaping with less vapor production.
  • Sub-Ohm Coils: Have a resistance below 1.0 Ohm. These are optimized for direct-to-lung vaping, producing dense clouds and a smoother, more intense flavor experience.

What Is Ohm's Law? - For The Physics Geeks

 

"Ohm's Law states that the current through a conductor between two points is directly proportional to the voltage across the two points."
— Source: Wikipedia

 

This law is critical to understanding the relationship between voltage, current, and resistance in your vape. For vapers, this translates into how your coil, battery, and mod work together to produce vapor. Here’s why it matters:

  • Decreasing Resistance: Allows more current to flow through the wire. This means higher wattage and more heat to vaporize your e-liquid, creating bigger clouds.
  • Increasing Resistance: Reduces the current, producing a cooler vape with smaller vapor clouds.

Practical Impacts for Sub-Ohm Vaping

 

When you lower the resistance of your coil:

  1. More Current Flows: The device draws more power, ramping up wattage.
  2. Higher Amperage: This increases the load on your battery, which is why high-quality batteries and mods are essential for safety and performance.
  3. Enhanced Vapor Production: With higher power comes thicker, hotter vapor—perfect for cloud chasing and high VG e-liquids.

Ohm’s Law in Action

 

To calculate the effect of resistance, use the formula:
Voltage (V) ÷ Resistance (R) = Current (I in Amps)

For example:

  • A device running at 4.2 volts with a 0.5 Ohm coil will draw 8.4 amps of current.

While this math may seem technical, the takeaway is simple: lower resistance means more power and heat, leading to more vapour and flavour. Always ensure your device and battery can handle the increased demand of sub-ohm vaping to enjoy a safe, top-tier experience.

 

Coil and Battery Safety

Getting the most out of your sub-ohm vaping device starts with understanding how to use it safely and efficiently. Here are the essential steps and tips:

Understanding Atomizer Resistance

 

Most sub-ohm atomizers range between 0.2–0.5 Ohms, providing a great balance between cloud production, flavour intensity, and safety. Using a vaping resistance chart is helpful to:

  • Match Resistance and Voltage: Ensures optimal performance and prevents overloading the battery.
  • Identify Safe Combinations: Helps avoid risks like overheating or battery failure.

Luckily, most modern regulated mods take the guesswork out by automatically adjusting voltage output based on the resistance of the coil in your atomizer.

Adjusting Wattage for Optimal Performance

  • Check the Recommended Wattage: Most coils include a printed guide for the recommended or "best" wattage range.
  • Experiment for Flavor: Slight adjustments within the recommended range can fine-tune the flavor, as certain wattages interact differently with e-liquids.
  • Avoid Overpowering: Using wattage above the recommended range can overheat the coil, burn your wick, and waste e-liquid.

Battery Safety Tips

 

Since sub-ohm vaping demands more power from your batteries, following these safety guidelines is critical:

  1. Use Quality Batteries: Opt for high-drain, authentic lithium-ion batteries designed for vaping, like 18650s from trusted brands.
  2. Check Battery Ratings: Ensure the battery’s amp limit can handle the power draw (current) of your sub-ohm setup.
  3. Inspect for Damage: Regularly check for any tears or dents in the battery wrapping. Damaged batteries can short-circuit and lead to overheating.
  4. Charge Safely: Always use a reliable charger and avoid overcharging or leaving batteries unattended while charging.

General Vape Safety

 

For both beginners and experienced vapers:

  • Don’t “Mess Around”: Sub-ohm vaping involves high power outputs, and ignoring safety guidelines can lead to overheating, battery failure, or even explosions.
  • Learn the Basics of Ohm’s Law: Understanding how resistance, voltage, and current interact can prevent dangerous setups.
  • Stay Informed: Read blogs or guides on vaping safety, such as those dispelling myths about exploding vapes, to stay ahead of potential issues.

With these precautions in place, sub-ohm vaping can be a safe and enjoyable way to explore massive clouds, intense flavours, and personalized vaping experiences.

 

Sub-Ohm Safety: A Critical Overview

 

Sub-ohm vaping can be incredibly satisfying for those chasing intense flavors and huge clouds, but safety is paramount. Here's everything you need to know about staying safe while enjoying sub-ohm setups:

Understand Your Equipment

  • Regulated Box Mods: These are the safest options for sub-ohm vaping. Devices like the SMOK Alien, Vaporesso Revenger, or Innokin CoolFire IV come with built-in protections against overcurrent, short circuits, and overheating.
  • Mechanical Mods (Mech Mods): If you’re using an unregulated mod, educate yourself on Ohm’s Law and battery safety. Mech mods demand more technical understanding and carry higher risks if misused.

Hybrid Mech Mods: Proceed with Extreme Caution

NEVER use a hybrid mech mod with a non-hybrid safe tank.

  • Why It’s Dangerous: A non-hybrid safe tank lacks a protruding 510 pin, which can cause a hard short if it contacts the battery directly.
  • Rule of Thumb: If you’re unsure whether your tank is hybrid safe, err on the side of caution and avoid it altogether.

Battery Safety: Non-Negotiable Rules

Sub-ohm vaping puts batteries under significant strain. Here’s how to handle them safely:

  1. Use Authentic Batteries: Choose reputable brands and vendors to avoid counterfeits.
  2. Check for Damage: Don’t use batteries with torn wraps or dents. Damaged batteries are a major safety hazard.
  3. Match Battery Amp Limits to Your Setup: Always ensure the battery’s amp rating exceeds the current draw of your device. For regulated mods, the device usually manages this automatically.
  4. Choose the Right Type: Use IMR or hybrid lithium-ion batteries, which are designed for high-drain devices and are safer against failure.
  5. Ventilation Is Key: Always use mods with visible battery venting holes. This reduces the risk of catastrophic failure if the battery overheats.

Choosing Batteries and Mods

  • 18650 Batteries: Most commonly used in sub-ohm devices.
  • 20700 or 21700 Batteries: Used in newer mods for greater power and longer lifespan.
  • Ask Questions: If you’re unsure about compatibility or safety, consult your vendor or an experienced vaper.

Alternatives for the Less Technically Inclined

If all the technical talk about amps, volts, and Ohms makes your head spin, there are simpler options:

  • Regulated Box Mods: Safest and most user-friendly for sub-ohm vaping.
  • Starter Kits: Great for beginners, with low-maintenance setups.
  • Disposable Vapes: Popular in 2022, single-use options like Elf Bar or Lost Mary offer simplicity and variety.

Why Safety Matters

Even if the laws of physics aren’t your forte, sub-ohm vaping without proper precautions can lead to dangerous situations like battery venting, short circuits, or even explosions. Following these guidelines ensures a safe and enjoyable experience.

And remember—when in doubt, ask! Many vendors and vaping experts are happy to help.

 

Nicotine Levels in Sub-Ohm Vaping

Switching from mouth-to-lung (MTL) vaping to sub-ohm vaping requires a rethink of your nicotine levels. Here's what you need to know:

Lower Nicotine Strength is Key

  • Why Reduce Nicotine? Sub-ohm vaping delivers more vapour per puff, meaning you inhale a larger quantity of nicotine with each hit. This intensified delivery can quickly overwhelm you if you're using higher-strength e-liquids.
  • General Rule: Halve your usual nicotine level or cap it at 6mg/ml—whichever is lower.

Nicotine's Impact on Flavour

  • Harshness and Peppery Notes: Higher nicotine strengths in sub-ohm devices often result in a harsher throat hit and a peppery aftertaste. Reducing nicotine levels enhances the smoothness of the vape and allows the flavor of high-VG e-liquids to shine.
  • High VG Liquids: Designed for sub-ohm vaping, these blends offer a smoother experience and minimize the harshness associated with nicotine.

Avoid Nicotine Salts in Sub-Ohm Devices

  • Why Not Nic Salts? Nicotine salts are formulated for low-wattage, high-resistance devices. Using them in sub-ohm setups can lead to excessive nicotine intake, resulting in side effects like dizziness, headaches, or nausea. Stick to freebase nicotine for sub-ohm vaping to maintain a balanced experience.

Recommendations

  • Experiment with e-liquids containing 0mg, 3mg, or 6mg nicotine to find the sweet spot.
  • Choose high-VG blends to reduce throat hit and amplify flavour.
  • Avoid experimenting with higher nicotine levels unless you're ready for a potentially overwhelming experience.

With these adjustments, you'll enjoy a smooth, flavourful sub-ohm vaping experience while avoiding unnecessary discomfort.

 

VG/PG Ratios: Finding the Right Balance

  • VG (Vegetable Glycerin) is thicker than PG (Propylene Glycol), which makes it better for cloud production but requires more heat and power to vaporize effectively.
  • PG (Propylene Glycol) is thinner and helps with throat hit and flavour delivery.

For sub-ohm vaping, higher VG ratios are preferred because they produce larger clouds and smoother hits. Here’s what to look for:

  1. 70:30 VG:PG

    • The sweet spot for many sub-ohm vapers. It offers a balance of rich flavour and thick clouds. The throat hit is very mild, making it perfect for those who enjoy smooth, flavourful vaping.

  2. 80:20 VG:PG

    • This ratio increases cloud size and smoothness, but it can slightly reduce flavour intensity. It's great for cloud chasers who want big, billowy clouds.

  3. 100% VG

    • The cloud chaser’s dream! Pure VG will create massive clouds, but the flavour might not be as intense. You'll also need more wattage to vaporize the thicker liquid effectively.

Nicotine Levels: Less is More for Flavour and Clouds

  • Lower Nicotine = Better Flavour and Vapour: The lower your nicotine level, the better your sub-ohm experience. Higher nicotine levels can contribute to a harsh throat hit, which can interfere with flavour and cloud production.
  • 3mg or Lower: Most sub-ohm vapers use short fills (e-liquids that come without nicotine) and add a nicotine shot to achieve a maximum strength of 3mg. This keeps the experience smooth and allows the flavour and vapour production to shine.

Flavour Impact

  • As you increase VG content, the flavor may become slightly less intense. This is why 3mg nicotine is often recommended—it reduces the harshness and allows the flavors to be more prominent.
  • Max VG e-liquids are ideal for cloud production, but you may notice the flavor isn’t as strong compared to a more balanced VG/PG blend.

Recommendations:

  • For Flavour and Clouds: Try a 70:30 VG:PG ratio. This provides a great balance between flavor and cloud production without sacrificing throat hit.
  • For Maximum Clouds: Go with 80:20 or 100% VG if you want thick clouds, but keep in mind that you'll need a high-wattage mod and will experience a slight flavor reduction.
  • For Smooth Vaping: Stick with a nicotine strength of 3mg or lower to ensure smooth vapour, excellent flavour, and substantial cloud production.

By adjusting your VG/PG ratio and nicotine strength, you'll be able to fine-tune your sub-ohm experience, balancing between clouds, flavour, and smoothness.

 

Pre-Made Coils vs. Rebuildable Atomizers: Three Ways to Enjoy Sub-Ohm Vaping

When it comes to sub-ohm vaping, you have several options for building or choosing your atomizer, each offering a different experience based on how much you want to customize your setup and how hands-on you want to be. Here's a breakdown of the three main types of atomizers:

1. RDAs (Rebuildable Drip Atomizers)

  • What are they?
    RDAs are the original way to sub-ohm. These are rebuildable atomizers where you manually build your own coils and wick them with cotton. Instead of a tank, you drip e-liquid directly onto the coils and wick.

  • Pros:

    • Flavour and Cloud Quality: RDAs are known for producing some of the best flavour and massive clouds due to their direct coil-to-airflow design.
    • Customizable Flavours: Since you drip fresh e-liquid directly onto the coils, it’s easy to switch between different flavors after every few puffs.

  • Cons:

    • Inconvenience: You need to drip juice onto the coils every few puffs, which can be cumbersome, especially if you're on the go.
    • Requires Skill: You must be comfortable building your own coils and wicking properly to avoid leaking or burning the wick.

2. RTAs (Rebuildable Tank Atomizers)

  • What are they?
    RTAs are similar to RDAs but come with a built-in tank that holds e-liquid. This means you don’t need to drip juice every few puffs, making them more convenient than RDAs while still allowing for coil building.

  • Pros:

    • Customization: RTAs offer the ability to build your own coils, allowing you to fine-tune your vaping experience, including coil resistance and airflow.
    • Convenience: Unlike RDAs, RTAs have a tank, so you don’t have to drip e-liquid continuously. You can enjoy extended vaping sessions without refilling as often.
    • Great for Cloud and Flavor: With appropriate coil builds and airflow setups, RTAs can rival RDAs in both cloud production and flavor.

  • Cons:

    • Building Required: As with RDAs, you’ll need to know how to build and wick coils, which can be tricky for beginners.
    • Complexity: Some RTAs have intricate build decks and require careful assembly to avoid leaks or dry hits.

3. Sub-Ohm Tanks with Pre-Made Coils

  • What are they?
    Sub-ohm tanks use pre-made coil heads that you simply screw into the tank. These are the easiest way to enjoy sub-ohm vaping without needing to build coils yourself.

  • Pros:

    • Convenience: With no need for coil building, these tanks are easy to use and great for beginners. You just need to replace the coil when it wears out.
    • Decent Performance: While you don’t have the same level of customization as with RDAs and RTAs, many sub-ohm tanks still produce great clouds and intense flavour. Some tanks like the HorizonTech Sakerz are designed for heavy vapor production.

  • Cons:

    • Disposable Coils: The downside is that the coils eventually burn out and need to be replaced, which can become costly over time.
    • Limited Customization: Since you’re using pre-made coils, you have less control over the specific type of coil or airflow compared to building your own.

Conclusion: Which is Best for You?

  • RDAs are great for experienced vapers who want the highest possible flavour and cloud production and are willing to deal with the hassle of dripping and coil building.
  • RTAs are for vapers who enjoy building their own coils but prefer the convenience of a tank that holds e-liquid, offering a balance of customization and convenience.
  • Sub-Ohm Tanks with Pre-Made Coils are ideal for those who want an easy, hassle-free vaping experience without the need to build coils. They’re great for beginners or vapers looking for convenience and good performance without too much effort.

Ultimately, it comes down to how involved you want to be in the building process and what kind of experience you’re looking for in terms of flavor, cloud production, and convenience.

Daniel McGill   |   Publicado el diciembre 11 2024

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