Sub Ohm vaping is the final frontier for many vapers. If you started out with a simple-to-use mouth-to-lung vape kit, you might be wanting to step into the cloud-chasing territory.
Bigger clouds, harder-hitting flavour, and lower nicotine levels sound good?
Sub Ohm vaping might be for you. If it all seems a bit daunting and you don’t know where to start, seeing as we’re a friendly bunch, we’ll give you the low down.
We’ll explain what Sub-Ohm vaping is, how to do it, why to do it, and then some.
What Does Sub-Ohm Mean?
To address this, we must first comprehend resistance and its significance in vaping.
Resistance, expressed in Ohms (Ω), indicates how simple or difficult it is for electrical current to flow through any given component in a circuit.
When we discuss resistance in the context of vaping, we nearly usually mean the coil inside the atomizer.
High-resistance coils often heat up more slowly and are optimized for lesser power output. Coils with low resistance heat up faster and are optimized for higher power output.
Any vaping coil that measures less than 1.0 ohm is dubbed “sub-ohm,” and these coils are typically designed to be utilized at higher power levels.
How Did It Start?
In the early days of vaping, it was common for coils to measure anywhere between 1.5Ω and 3.0Ω since they were designed for extremely low power output, tight airflow, and high nicotine strength e-liquids.
Before variable power devices became readily available, the only way for enthusiast vapers to change the power output of their vape was to alter the coil itself.
At the time, devices either operated with a single level of voltage or directly delivered the voltage of the battery, in the case of mechanical mods.
Coils are constructed from various resistance wires. These are materials whose resistance is well understood.
The resistance of a coil varies according to the material used, the thickness (gauge) of the wire, the diameter of the coil, and the number of coil wraps. Early vapers realized they could play with these variables to generate low-resistance coils.
These early sub-ohm coils resulted in dramatically increased vapour production, greater flavor, and warmth.
Sub-ohm vaping began as a niche pastime among enthusiast vapers, but the market rapidly took notice since it represented an opportunity to make vaping far more pleasurable for people who enjoyed greater clouds.
Why Sub Ohm Vape?
Because it’s better. Seriously, you can buy all the pistachio creme brulee or Heisenberry in the world, but Walter White would be ashamed of you if you weren’t Sub-Ohm vaping.
Monstrous Cloud Production
Sub-Ohm vaping produces thicker, denser, and larger clouds, making it the preferred option for cloud chasers who enjoy high VG liquids.
Blowing a radioactive cloud out your lips may not go down well in an office doorway, but if you’re lucky enough to work in a vape-friendly atmosphere, this is absolutely the best thing ever.
Many vapers manage the pressures of vaping etiquette by bringing a vape pen to work and saving the Sub-Ohm clouds for their own solitude.
Smoother, More Intense Flavour
While high PG liquids for mouth-to-lung devices can pack a pretty good punch on flavour, they’re nothing in comparison to a well-constructed Sub Ohm setup.
Manufacturers have specifically developed some high VG e-liquids to accommodate low resistance, Sub-Ohm devices.
Dinner Lady’s range is perfect for Sub-Ohm vaping.
Also coming highly recommended, are the trustworthy Element and our in-house 70/30 flavours like Watermelon Candy Coconut, Apricot Mango, and Caramel Coffee Custard.
A Lung Hit that Satisfies
Some vapers, such as stealth vapers or “MTL” Mouth To Lung vapers, do not want a strong lung hit.
Those who are will discover that Sub-Ohm vaping delivers- like, woah. There are Sub-Ohm tanks, which are just tanks with a Sub-Ohm coil inside.
Nevertheless, don’t make the rookie error of believing that reducing airflow on a Sub-Ohm tank will result in a decent MTL hit. That’s like arguing milk and beer is the same thing since they’re both served in glasses.
While mouth-to-lung vaping mimics the sensation of smoking, direct-to-lung vaping is a deep drag directly into your lungs.
Enjoyment and Experience Over Nicotine Hits
You’ll never be robbed of your nicotine hit, regardless of how you vape.
As long as you choose some form of nicotine strength (or save dough by using Short Fills), you’ll still get your fix. Sub-Ohm vaping really is more about the experience, though.
The clouds and the flavor take priority over the quitting smoker’s desperate need for nicotine.
You’ll also get less of a throat hit from Sub Ohm vaping as you’re using high-VG liquids.
How Do You Sub-Ohm?
Sub-ohming refers to vaping with a coil that has a resistance of less than 1 ohm. This can produce more vapor and a stronger flavor than using a higher-resistance coil. Here are the steps to sub-ohm:
- Choose the right equipment: To sub-ohm, you need a device that is capable of handling low-resistance coils. This typically means a regulated mod with high wattage output, as well as a sub-ohm tank or rebuildable atomizer.
- Select the right coil: Sub-ohm coils come in different resistances, typically ranging from 0.1 to 0.5 ohms. Choose a coil with a resistance that matches the wattage range of your device and your personal preference for vapor production and flavor intensity.
- Prime the coil: Before using a new coil, it’s important to prime it to prevent dry hits and prolong its lifespan. This involves saturating the cotton wick with e-liquid by adding a few drops directly onto the coil and letting it soak for a few minutes.
- Adjust the settings: Set your device to the desired wattage and make sure your battery is fully charged. Start at a low wattage and gradually increase it until you find the sweet spot for your coil and e-liquid.
- Inhale and enjoy: Take slow and steady draws, allowing the coil to heat up and produce vapor. Experiment with different airflow settings to find the perfect balance of flavor and vapor production.
How Can You Get The Most Out Of Vaping Device?
Most atomizers have resistances ranging from 0.2 to 0.5 Ohms, depending on the device and manufacturer. Vaping resistance charts are useful for determining how resistance and voltage should be matched, as well as indicating which combinations are safe. Regulated mods, on the other hand, will naturally alter the voltage output based on the coil in your atomizer.
All you have to do from there is change the wattage (most coils will have a recommendation for “optimal” wattage ranges written on them if you’re unsure). Play around with it; some coils will provide a better flavor payoff at different power settings depending on the juice you’re using with them.
No matter your level of experience, it’s important to follow these guidelines as an essential safety component to something that can go dangerously wrong if you’re just “messing around.” We wrote an entire blog post on general vape safety (and the myths surrounding exploding vapes).
Safety (We’re Mentioning It For A Reason)
If you’re looking to Sub-Ohm, educate yourself. No one is asking you to become Sheldon from The Big Bang Theory, but you need to know what you’re doing if you use an unregulated mod. Follow the guidelines below as law (they are, after all, built on the laws of physics), or shoot us a message any time-contact details at the end.
NEVER use a hybrid mech mod with a non-hybrid safe tank. “Extremely dangerous” doesn’t even begin to cover this one. The tank here must have a protruding 510 pin. If you’re unsure, don’t take risks.
A regulated box mod, such as the SMOK Alien, Vaporesso Revenger, or Innokin CoolFire IV, is the safest way to vape Sub-Ohm. Keep your batteries safe by only using genuine, non-damaged Sub-Ohm vaping batteries. Although some mods may adapt to 20700 or 21700 batteries, 95% of people utilize 18650 batteries.
Make sure you never exceed your battery’s amp limit. If you’re unsure, ask. IMR or hybrid lithium batteries are what you’ll be asking the vendor for these are protected against failure.
Mech modders that employ a Sub-Ohm tank should always keep it properly ventilated. Never use a mod with no obvious battery venting holes. If reading this has made you want to scream SHUT UP WITH ALL THE PHYSICS, grab a box mod, and talk to one of our know-it-alls.
Of course, you do not need to Sub Ohm. There are vape pens and starting kits available for as little as £14.95.
The year 2022 is designated as the throwaway vape year, so if single-use vapes are your thing, look no further than Elf Bar or Geek bars.
The sheer diversity of vaping options is fantastic.
Nicotine Levels
When it comes to nicotine level, if you used to mouth to lung vape, you’ll need to re-evaluate this bit when you switch to Sub Ohm vaping.
Using a direct to lung inhale hits a lot harder than mouth to lung when it comes to nicotine levels.
The general rule to apply is: halve your nicotine level or use a maximum of 6mg (whichever is lower).
Nicotine also affects flavour, so when you use a higher strength in a Sub Ohm device you may find you get a harsher, more peppery flavour.
You also want to completely avoid the use of nic salts (unless a banging nicotine headache is your end goal – which we doubt).
Choosing Your E-Liquid
Choosing the right e-liquid is important for sub-ohm vaping, as it can affect the flavor, vapor production, and overall experience.
Here are some factors to consider when selecting an e-liquid for sub-ohming:
- VG/PG Ratio: Sub-ohm coils typically require a higher VG (vegetable glycerin) content in the e-liquid to produce thicker clouds of vapor. A VG/PG ratio of 70/30 or higher is recommended for sub-ohm vaping.
- Nicotine Level: Sub-ohm coils can produce a stronger throat hit, so it’s recommended to use lower nicotine levels to avoid discomfort. 3mg or 6mg nicotine level is commonly used for sub-ohm vaping.
- Flavor: Sub-ohm coils can enhance the flavor of an e-liquid, so choose a flavor that you enjoy and that will hold up well with the increased vapor production.
- Brand and Quality: Always choose a high-quality e-liquid from a reputable brand to ensure safety and consistent flavor and vapor production.
- Personal Preference: Ultimately, the best e-liquid for sub-ohm vaping is one that you enjoy and that meets your personal preferences for flavor, vapor production, and nicotine strength. Experiment with different e-liquids to find the perfect match for your sub-ohm setup.
Pre-Made Coils Or Rebuildable Atomizers
When it comes to sub-ohm vaping, you have two options for coils: pre-made coils or rebuildable atomizers. Here are some things to consider when deciding which option is right for you:
Pre-Made Coils:
- Convenience: Pre-made coils are easy to use and require minimal setup time. You can simply screw them into your tank or atomizer and start vaping.
- Consistency: Pre-made coils are manufactured to consistent standards, so you can expect a similar vaping experience every time.
- Limited Customization: Pre-made coils come in a limited range of resistances, so you may not be able to fine-tune your vaping experience to your exact preferences.
Rebuildable Atomizers:
- Customization: With rebuildable atomizers, you have complete control over the coil resistance and wicking material, allowing you to tailor your vaping experience to your exact preferences.
- Cost: While rebuildable atomizers require a higher initial investment, they can save you money in the long run by allowing you to rebuild and reuse coils instead of constantly buying pre-made coils.
- Learning Curve: Rebuildable atomizers require more knowledge and skill to use properly, including understanding Ohm’s Law and coil-building techniques. There may be a learning curve involved before you can achieve the perfect setup for your preferences.
Ultimately, the choice between pre-made coils and rebuildable atomizers comes down to personal preference and experience level. If you value convenience and consistency, pre-made coils may be the best option for you. If you enjoy customization and are willing to invest time and effort into learning how to build coils, rebuildable atomizers may provide a more satisfying vaping experience.
What Are the Benefits of Sub-Ohm Vaping?
Sub-ohm vaping has become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. Here are some of the benefits of sub-ohm vaping:
- More Vapor: Sub-ohm vaping produces thicker clouds of vapor, which can enhance the overall vaping experience.
- Better Flavor: The increased surface area of sub-ohm coils can bring out more flavor in e-liquids, resulting in a more intense and satisfying taste.
- Warmer Vapor: Sub-ohm coils require higher wattage, which can result in the warmer vapor that many vapers prefer.
- Customization: Sub-ohm vaping allows for greater customization of the vaping experience, from the type of coil used to the e-liquid flavor and nicotine level.
- Smooth Draws: Sub-ohm coils typically have larger airflow, which can result in a smoother draw and less harshness on the throat.
It’s important to note that sub-ohm vaping can be potentially dangerous if not done properly, so it’s important to follow safety guidelines and use high-quality equipment and e-liquids.
What Are the Disadvantages?
While sub-ohm vaping has many benefits, there are also some potential disadvantages to consider:
- Battery Life: Sub-ohm vaping requires higher wattage, which can drain your battery faster and require more frequent recharging.
- E-Liquid Consumption: Sub-ohm vaping can use more e-liquid than traditional vaping, which can be more costly in the long run.
- Overheating: Sub-ohm coils generate more heat than traditional coils, which can cause the device to overheat and potentially become unsafe.
- Potential for Dry Hits: Sub-ohm coils can vaporize e-liquid faster than traditional coils, which can lead to dry hits if the wick isn’t properly saturated with e-liquid.
- Learning Curve: Sub-ohm vaping can require more knowledge and experience to get right, from understanding Ohm’s Law to selecting the right equipment and e-liquid.
- Throat Hit: Sub-ohm vaping can produce a stronger throat hit than traditional vaping, which may not be preferable for all vapers.
Conclusion
Sub-ohm vaping has been popular for a decade now and shows no signs of slowing down.
Although the term itself has been displaced by more accurate descriptors such as DL and RDL, this style of vaping remains an excellent option for transitioning smokers who want a vaping experience that is completely removed from combustible tobacco.
If you want dense clouds of vapour, with intense vapour and warmth, sub-ohm vaping might be just the thing you’re looking for.