Freebase vs Nic Salt: What's the Difference?

Starting out with vaping? You’ll likely notice there are two main types of nicotine used in e-liquids: freebase nicotine and nicotine salts (also known as nic salts). Both deliver that familiar nicotine hit, but they behave a bit differently.

• Freebase vape juice provides a sharper throat hit, something many ex-smokers are familiar with.
• Nic salt e-liquids feel smoother and deliver nicotine faster, making them more cigarette-like in sensation.

Choosing between them depends on what suits your needs best:

• Prefer a stronger throat hit? Freebase is your go-to.
• Want a smoother, faster-acting option? Nic salts are ideal. 

Most trusted vape shops such as Greet Vape carry a wide range of both types, with loads of E-juice flavours and nicotine levels to try. Whether you’re using a Pod Kit, a simple Starter Kit, or an MTL Kit, there’s something out there for your style.

Try out a few options and see what works best for your taste and setup. The right e-liquid can really improve your vaping experience and make it more enjoyable overall. Let’s discuss more about it.

How is it made?
Freebase nicotine is available in 50ml Shortfill, 100ml Shortfill sizes and above, and is filled with 80% capacity and 0mg Nicotine strength. It is the pure form of nicotine, made by processing tobacco leaves with ammonia. This makes it stronger, but also more alkaline (think a higher pH), which can give it a harsher feel, especially in higher nicotine strengths.
Throat Hit:
If you like that scratchy feeling in your throat, freebase gives you just that. It’s the "throat hit" that many smokers love.
Strength Range:
Freebase nicotine typically comes in strengths from 0 mg (nicotine-free) up to 18–24 mg/ml.
Best for:
Freebase works best in setups where you’re taking direct-to-lung (DTL) hits, like sub-ohm tanks and high-VG e-liquids. This is great for people who enjoy blowing big clouds of vapour. We present multiple Brands, including LYC, IVG, Careless, Fruit Drip, Hayati, Uncle's Vape Co., Doozy Vape Co., and many more.

How is it made?
Nic salts are a combination of nicotine and acids (like benzoic acid) that smooth out the nicotine and make it less harsh. The result is a lower pH (around 5), which feels much gentler on your throat.
Smoothness:
Nicotine salts are super smooth, even at higher nicotine levels, which is perfect if you don’t want to deal with that rough hit or if you’re prone to coughing.
Nicotine Hit:
Nic salts hit you fast, about 30–40% faster than freebase. It gives you that quick nicotine buzz you’d feel with a cigarette.
Strength Range:
Nic salts are available in strengths ranging from 10 mg to 50 mg/ml. But most people stick with the 20 mg range.
Try these nic salts for an enjoyable vaping experience. It includes Sparkling Guava, Watermelon Ice, Strawberry Watermelon Bubblegum, Strawberry Ice, Gummy Bear and more.

To help you easily distinguish between freebase nicotine and nicotine salts, here's a comparative overview of their key features:

Brands usually promote one over the other for specific reasons: top brands like IVG, Riot Squad, Elux, Doozy Vape, Elfliq, Fruit Kings, and more are available here

• Nicotine salts are known for being smoother, faster to absorb, and lasting longer on the shelf. They're perfect for pod systems or disposables.
• Freebase nicotine is often recommended for its ability to create big vapour clouds and full, intense flavours. It’s great for those into cloud chasing with sub-ohm tanks. Find your perfect vape mix! Calculate the ideal blend now with our Vape Calculator.

There are a few things to keep in mind that you might not hear from the brands:

• Acid Sensitivity & Coughing:
  Some people might feel irritation or a tickle in their throat from the acids in nic salts. If you notice this, switching to another brand or formula could help.
• Leakage & Viscosity:
  Nic salts are thinner than freebase, so they can leak in sub-ohm tanks if you’re not careful. They work best with lower-wattage coils.
• Chain-Vaping:
  Nic salts are absorbed quickly, so you might be tempted to vape more often. Just be careful not to overdo it, as this can irritate your throat.
• Mixing Issues:
  Don’t mix freebase and nic salts in the same tank. They have different pH levels, which can cause flavour problems and might mess with your device.
• Coil Burnout:
  Nic salts can wear down your coils faster, especially because of the higher PG content. Regularly cleaning and replacing your coils is a good idea.

Go for Nic Salts if:

• You want a smooth, quick hit that feels like smoking a cigarette.
• You prefer using smaller devices like pod systems or disposables.
• You want higher nicotine levels without the harsh burn in your throat.
• You’re new to vaping or transitioning from smoking.

Go for Freebase Nicotine if:

• You love creating big clouds and want to try different flavours.
• You like a stronger throat hit and full flavour.
• You’re looking to lower your nicotine intake gradually with lower strengths (0–18 mg).

Curious How Vape Juice Is Made? Discover the whole step-by-step process behind your favourite e-liquid flavours – from ingredients to bottling!

Vaping isn’t just about nicotine; it’s also about your style and convenience:

• If you want to vape discreetly, nic salts in a sleek pod system are more subtle compared to the large clouds of freebase.
• If you’re a busy parent or professional, nicotine salts provide a quick hit, so you don’t have to take long breaks.
• If you’re a chef, artist, or musician, freebase nicotine may be a better choice, since it doesn’t mess with your sense of taste as much as nic salts can.

Pro Tips:

• If you’re sensitive to acids, try different types of nicotine salts.
• Match your nicotine strength to your old smoking habits (for example, 3–6 mg of freebase is roughly equivalent to 10 mg of nic salt).
• Don’t mix freebase and nic salts in the same tank.
• Use the right device: sub-ohm tanks for freebase and pod kits for salts.

Moreover, create your custom e-liquid recipe effortlessly! Start using our E-liquid Calculator today!

There’s no “one size fits all” when it comes to choosing between freebase and nicotine salts. It really depends on what you’re looking for:

• Nicotine salts offer a smoother, faster, and more discreet way to satisfy cravings.
• Freebase nicotine gives you bigger clouds, a stronger throat hit, and more complex flavour options.