Difference between Nic Salts and Freebase Vape Juice

Whether you're new to vaping or just curious, you've likely heard terms like Nic Salts and Freebase E-Liquids thrown around. But what do they really mean? And which one suits your vaping needs better?

Choosing between nicotine salts and freebase e-liquids can change your whole vaping experience, especially how smooth your vape feels and how strong the nicotine hit is. In this guide, we'll explain the main differences, pros, and cons of both so you can make an informed choice.

Let’s break it down.

What Is Freebase Nicotine?

Freebase nicotine juice is the traditional form of nicotine used in most standard e-liquids. Created back in the 1960s, it goes through a chemical process that removes certain acids, making the nicotine more powerful and better suited for inhalation.

You’ll usually find freebase nicotine in standard 10ml bottles and nicotine shots.

Benefits of Freebase Nicotine

The following are the benefits of freebase vape juice are given below

Strong Throat Hit: If you’re trying to quit smoking and need that strong hit at the back of the throat, freebase e-liquids are ideal.

Wide Strength Range: Available from low (1mg) to high (20mg) strengths, so you can easily adjust as your needs change.

Great for Big Clouds: Freebase works perfectly in high VG e-liquids, which are made for sub-ohm kits and cloud chasing.

Rich Flavour Options: It pairs well with a wide range of flavours i.e fruity, menthol, dessert you name it.

Drawbacks of Freebase Nicotine

The drawbacks of freebase nicotine is given below. 

Can Feel Harsh: The strong throat hit might feel too harsh for some, especially if you're using higher strengths.

Slower Absorption: Freebase nicotine takes longer to reach your system, so the effects aren’t instant.

You May Vape More: Some users lower the nicotine strength due to harshness, which can lead to more frequent vaping and higher juice usage.

What Are Nicotine Salts?

Nicotine salts often called nic salts are a newer type of vape juice. They're made by combining natural nicotine with organic acids, which makes them smoother to inhale. This method copies the type of nicotine found in tobacco leaves, giving a more natural-feeling vape.

Nic salts are especially popular with ex-smokers or those who want a strong hit without the harshness.

Benefits of Nicotine Salts

The benefits of nicotine salt e-liquids are given below

Smooth Inhale: Even at higher strengths (like 20mg), nic salts feel smooth on the throat, great for new vapers.

Fast Nicotine Fix: Your body absorbs nicotine salts quickly, giving you faster satisfaction, just like a cigarette.

Lower Strength, Same Effect: Because they absorb quicker, you often don’t need as much nicotine to feel satisfied.

Perfect for Pod Kits: Nic salts are ideal for low-power pod systems, small, sleek, and easy to carry.

Drawbacks of Nicotine Salts

The following are some disadvantages of Nic Salts are given below

Slightly More Expensive: Nic salts often come in smaller bottles and are designed for low-wattage kits, so you might end up spending a bit more.

Less Flexibility: Most nic salt e-liquids are made with a 50/50 VG/PG ratio and come in limited strength optionsusually 10mg or 20mg.

Easy to Overuse: The smooth inhale makes it tempting to take more puffs, which can lead to higher nicotine intake than you realise.

Not for Sub-Ohm Devices: Nicotine salts aren’t designed for high-powered kits. If you're into big clouds, you'll want to stick to freebase juices.

Final Thoughts: Is Freebase Juice or Nic Salts Better?

Nicotine salts and freebase e-liquids each serve a purpose and your choice depends on how you vape.

• Go with freebase if you enjoy big clouds, customisation, or a strong throat hit.
• Choose nic salts if you want a smoother vape, quicker nicotine relief, or a more cigarette-like feel.

We know all the terms can be confusing, but understanding the difference helps you choose the vape juice that’s right for you. Whether you're switching from smoking or just exploring your options, both nic salts and freebase liquids offer something unique.

Nic Salt FAQs

Why are nic salts so popular?

Nic salts gained fame when JUUL launched in 2015 using a patented formula that mimicked the throat hit of a cigarette. Their smooth, cigarette-like sensation helped them dominate the US vape market and later gain traction worldwide.

Do disposable vapes use nic salts?

Yes, brands like Elf Bar, Lost Mary, Elux, and SKE Crystal all use nicotine salts in their disposable vapes. These are designed to offer a satisfying smoking-like experience with zero setup.

Who should use nic salts?

Heavy smokers or those who vape less frequently often prefer nic salts. They’re a great option for quick and strong nicotine delivery with minimal throat irritation.

Top Nic Salt E-Liquid Brands (UK):

• Elux Legend Nic Salts
• Elfliq by Elf Bar
• Bar Juice 5000
• Seriously Bar Salts (Doozy Vape)
• IVG Bar Favourites
• Pod Mate (Nasty Juice)
• IVG Salt
• Double Drip Nic Salts

What are Bar Salts?

Bar Salts are 10ml nic salt bottles crafted to mimic the exact flavours found in disposables. They're made for MTL pod kits like the Aspire Gotek X or OXVA Xlim Pro 2, and available in 10mg and 20mg strengths.

Do nic salts produce large vapour clouds?

Not really. Nic salts usually come in a 50/50 VG/PG mix, which offers a moderate cloud output. If you want dense clouds, consider high VG shortfills instead.

Are nic salts safe?

Yes, when purchased from trusted retailers. According to Public Health England, vaping is around 95% safer than smoking. All UK nic salt products must meet TPD compliance to be sold legally.

Can nic salts expire?

Yes, though they degrade slower than freebase due to their chemical stability. Most nic salts last up to 2 years. Store in a cool, dry place out of sunlight.

Signs your nic salt has expired:

• Darkened colour
• Weakened flavour
• Thinner or thicker consistency
• Separation of ingredients

Do nic salts contain salt?

Not table salt. The “salt” refers to the chemical form of nicotine, stabilised using benzoic or citric acid to allow smoother delivery at higher strengths.

Is nic salt better than freebase?

Nic salt is ideal for new vapers or dual users. It delivers a stronger and smoother hit, even at higher doses, and works best with low-wattage pod kits.

Is nic salt stronger?

Yes. Nic salts feel stronger because they deliver nicotine faster. 20mg nic salt is the legal maximum strength in the UK and often feels more satisfying than equivalent freebase nicotine.

What strength should I choose?

10mg: for light smokers (5–10 cigarettes/day)

20mg: for heavier smokers (10+ cigarettes/day)

Freebase E-Liquid FAQs

Is freebase harsh on the throat?

It can be, especially at higher strengths like 18mg. If you find it irritating, try switching to nic salts for a smoother experience.

Can I use freebase in any vape?

Technically yes, but performance depends on the e-liquid's VG/PG ratio and your device.

Types of Freebase E-Liquids:

High VG: Thicker liquid, big clouds, best for sub-ohm kits (e.g., VooPoo Drag X2, Vaporesso Luxe X)

High PG: Strong flavour and throat hit, ideal for starter kits (e.g., Aspire Flexus Q, Innokin T20S)

50/50: Balanced throat hit and vapour; compatible with most devices (e.g., Caliburn A3, Aspire Gotek X)

Best Freebase Brands in the UK:

• Vampire Vape
• IVG
• Dinner Lady
• Nasty Juice
• Zeus Juice
• Doozy Vape
• Element
• Wick Liquor