Vape Kits with Nic Salts: A Complete Beginner’s Guide

June 03, 2025 — By Thomas Meredith

Nicotine salts (often called nic salts) are a form of nicotine found naturally in tobacco leaves. Chemically, they’re created by combining nicotine with an organic acid (commonly benzoic acid) to form a more stable “salt”. This process lowers the pH of the e-liquid, resulting in a gentler throat hit. In practice, nic salts deliver a smoother and faster-acting nicotine “hit” than regular (freebase). For example, a 20mg nic salt vape feels roughly as smooth as a 3–6mg freebase juice.

Nicotine Salts Let You Vape Higher Nicotine Strengths Without the Usual Peppery Harshness

  • Key point: Nic salts vape use nicotine in its natural “salt” state (from tobacco leaves) combined with a mild acid. The result is high-strength vape juice that vaporises easily and hits quickly.
  • Faster absorption: Nic salts e-juices enter the bloodstream in about 5–6 seconds, giving a near-instant nicotine rush similar to a cigarette.
  • Gentle Throat hit: Because the added acid neutralises much of nicotine’s alkalinity, even a 20mg nic salt e-liquids feels smooth (comparable to a 3mg freebase).
  • Longer satisfaction: The modified form of nicotine in nic salts can satisfy cravings with fewer puffs, helping manage strong cravings without irritating the throat.

Enhance your taste buds with the nicotine salt vape kits that are available from top-rated brands such as Oxva vape , vaporesso vapes, voopoo pod vape, and more.

Why Nic Salts Are Ideal for Beginners?

Nic salts are especially beginner-friendly for a few reasons:

  • Fast nicotine satisfaction: Nic salts absorb quickly, so cravings are relieved almost immediately. Beginners often need quick relief from cigarette cravings, and nic salts deliver it.
  • MTL-friendly: Nic salts work best in mouth-to-lung (MTL) electronic vapes, which are designed to be inhaled into the mouth first, then the lungs, just like smoking. This familiar “cigarette-style” draw is comfortable for ex-smokers and new vapers.
  • Smooth on the throat: The lowered pH means less harshness. Even at higher strengths, the vape feels soft on the throat. Beginners can start with higher nicotine levels (up to 20mg/ml in the UK) without coughing.
  • Fewer puffs needed: Because each puff delivers nicotine faster, novices tend to vape less frequently. This can make switching easier. As one guide explains, nic salts “provide a more satisfying nicotine hit with fewer puffs” and remain “smooth on the throat,” making them popular with ex-smokers.

Nic salts mimic the smoking experience closely, a quick nicotine hit with each short puff, so new vapers don’t have to take long or hard draws. For someone used to cigarettes, this can make the transition smoother. Lower-powered pod kits using nic salts deliver exactly the milder “smoke-like” vape beginners expect. Try these Best Type of Vape for Nic Salt from different brands, including Cherry Menthol, Cherry Cola, 100% Menthol, and more.

Vape Kits That Work Best with Nic Salts

Not all vape devices suit High-strength Nic salt e-liquid. The best kits for nic salts are low-power, MTL-style systems. In particular:

  • Pod systems (closed & refillable): Pod kits are perfect for high-quality nic salts. Closed pod systems (with pre-filled pods) are ultra-convenient for newbies, while open pod kits (refillable pods) let you choose e-liquids. Both types use low-power coils (~0.6–1.2Ω) ideal for nicotine salts flavours. Refillable pod kits are widely recommended as beginner starter kits.
  • Low-wattage vape pens: Slim vape pens with built-in batteries (typically 10–20W output) work well. For example, a pen with a 50:50 PG/VG e-liquid and a 1.0Ω coil will give gentle MTL hits. Many beginner kits (like the Aspire GoTek Pro) fall in this category.
  • Avoid sub-ohm mods: High-powered “sub-ohm” devices (coils under ~1.0Ω, typically >30W) are not suitable for nic salts. Sub-ohm tanks are designed for low-nic high-VG juices and produce huge clouds, too harsh for nic salts. Using a 0.5Ω coil at high wattage with nic salts can deliver nicotine too quickly and create a harsh hit.

Look for kits marketed as MTL or “starter kits.” Check the coil resistance: anything below 1Ω is likely sub-ohm (avoid it). If possible, choose the best refillable vape for smooth nic salts with adjustable airflow so you can tighten the draw for an even smoother hit.

In practice, good picks include e-cigarette kit such as closed pre-filled pod kits (very beginner-friendly) or refillable pod/pen kits with 1Ω coils. Enjoy these best nic salt flavours with these Innokin Kroma-A Zenith, EZ Watt Starter Kit By Innokin, and Vinci 15W Pod.

How to Choose Your First Nic Salt Vape Kit?

When selecting a starter nic-salt vape kit, consider these factors:

  • Battery capacity: A bigger battery (measured in mAh) lasts longer between charges. Beginner kits often have 1000–1500mAh batteries. For example, the Aspire GoTek Pro has a 1500mAh battery (lasting a full day for many users). If you vape frequently, aim for ~1500mAh or more.
  • Coil/resistance: Nic salts like higher-resistance coils (~0.6–1.2Ω). Check that replacement pods/coils are available at ~1Ω. Avoid any kit that only uses ultra-low sub-ohm coils. Kits listing ~1.0Ω coils or simply “MTL coils” are ideal.
  • Ease of use: New vapers should look for one- or two-button kits (or even draw-activated kits that auto-fire when you inhale). Refillable pod kits require only filling with e-liquid; pre-filled pod kits require no filling at all. Readability: a simple LED or screen can help, but even a tiny display is fine if the kit has auto-adjust modes (like some VooPoo or Oxva pods).
  • Refillable vs Disposable: In the UK, refillable kits are increasingly preferred. Note that disposable vapes are being phased out (sales banned in England from mid-2025. Refillable kits (pods or pens) can be refilled many times and tend to give more flavour. Disposables are easy but become wasteful and soon illegal, so a simple refillable starter kit is a smart choice.
  • Price vs Performance: Beginner kits can range from around £10 to £50. Cheaper kits (like ~£10 Caliburn pods) may have smaller batteries or no screens, but often work fine. More expensive kits might have larger batteries, adjustable power, or nicer build. Decide what’s important (battery life, look, adjustable features) and balance it with budget. Remember, a higher price can mean better materials or performance, but even inexpensive kits today can perform well.

Overall, choose a best vape for nic salts that is simple and well-reviewed. Many UK retailers (like Vape Superstore or Selby Vapes) offer “beginner” or “first-time” filters. For example, Coolfire Z80 Zenith II, Endura T18 X, and V Thru Pro 25W are widely labelled as ideal for beginners.

Step-by-Step: How to Use Nic Salts Safely?

Charge the device: Before first use, fully charge the battery with the supplied charger. Always use the manufacturer’s cable to avoid any safety issues.

  • Fill the pod or tank: If using a refillable pod kit or vape pen, open the pod (or removable tank) and carefully fill it with nic salt e-liquid. Don’t overfill – leave a little air gap to avoid leaks. (If using a closed pre-filled pod, skip this step.)
  • Prime the coil: For refillable pods with replaceable coils, it’s wise to “prime” the coil: apply a few drops of e-liquid to the exposed cotton wick and let it soak for a couple of minutes before assembling. This prevents dry hits.
  • Assemble and let sit: Reattach the pod/tank and wait ~5 minutes after filling to ensure the wick is fully saturated. This helps avoid a burnt taste.
  • Set wattage (if adjustable): Nic salts vape best at low power. Start at the lowest recommended wattage (often 10–12W) and adjust up only if needed. Avoid high wattage. Many kits auto-adjust, but if yours has a range (e.g., 10–20W), stay on the low end.
  • Inhale (MTL style): Take a short, 2–3 second puff (mouth-to-lung inhalation, like a cigarette). Do not take long “sub-ohm” draws. After each puff, pause ~15–30 seconds before the next – this lets the coil wick refill. In other words, don’t chain-vape. Beginners often start at 2 seconds per puff and adjust from there.
  • Monitor effects:Pay attention to how you feel. Nic salts can deliver a strong hit. If you feel dizzy, nauseous, or uncomfortable, take slower, shorter draws or reduce nicotine strength. Drink water if needed – vaping can dehydrate.
  • Store safely: Keep your kit upright when not in use. Store e-liquids and pods away from children/pets and extreme temperatures.

Vaping tips for newbies

Let your body adjust to nicotine, it’s normal to cough initially as you get used to the hit. Start slowly. If you cough or feel sick, take a break. Always follow the kit’s manual, and only use juices formulated for nic salts (typically 50:50 PG/VG blends). Try these Hayati e-juice flavours for a better vaping experience. It includes Mad Blue, Hubba Bubba, and more.

Mistakes Beginners Make With Nic Salts?

New vapers often make avoidable mistakes with nic salts. Here are some common pitfalls and what not to do:

  • Using high-powered mods: A big mistake is pairing nic salts with sub-ohm tanks or mods set to high wattage. High-VG sub-ohm devices produce huge clouds and vaporise too much liquid. This can overwhelm you with nicotine and feel harsh. Stick to MTL devices; avoid coils below ~1.0Ω.
  • Chain vaping (overusing): Nic salts are very smooth, so it’s easy to inadvertently take puff after puff. However, chain vaping prevents your wick from re-saturating and can cause nic-sickness (dizziness, nausea). One expert rule: wait ~15–30 seconds between hitsinnokin.com. This lets the juice refill the coil and avoids overheating or too-fast nicotine intake.
  • Ignoring PG/VG ratio: Most nic salts come in around 50:50 PG: VG blends. Their higher PG helps the flavour pop and wicks easily in small coils. Using a very high-VG juice (like 70% VG) in a small pod can lead to dry hits or wicking issues. Make sure the e-liquid is designed for pods/MTL coils. If your juice seems too thick or flavours dull, check the PG/VG ratio.
  • Starting too high a nicotine strength: Some beginners jump into 20mg nic salts immediately. If you were a light smoker, this might be overwhelming. It’s wiser to match your cigarette habit: a pack-a-day smoker might use 18–20mg, whereas a moderate smoker could start at 10–12mg. Using too strong a juice can cause coughing or a headache. You can always step down to a lower strength later, but starting moderately may feel more comfortable.
  • Not priming new coils: If you insert a brand-new pod/coil and fire immediately, you risk burning the cotton. Always prime (see above) and wait a few minutes. A burnt coil tastes awful and is wasteful.

By avoiding these mistakes, especially overpowering your setup, beginners will find nic salts much more pleasant, Read More.

Best Vape Kits For Nic Salts In 2025

If you’re ready to buy a starter kit, here are the top beginner-friendly devices available in the UK for nic salts:

  • Uwell Caliburn G3 Lite:
    • Refillable pod kit with built-in coil pods
    • 1200mAh battery with 5–25W output
    • Top-fill system for easy refills
    • Delivers a smooth, flavourful MTL draw
  • Pros:
    • Ultra-pocketable design
    • Smooth MTL performance
  • Cons:
    • Fixed airflow (not adjustable)
    • No display screen
  • Price: Around £12.99 in UK shops
  • Aspire GoTek Pro:
    • Pen-style pod kit with integrated 0.8Ω coils
    • 1500mAh battery for long-lasting use (ideal MTL at ~13–16W)
    • Adjustable airflow for a custom draw
    • Durable metal construction
  • Pros:
    • Excellent battery life
    • Premium metal build
  • Cons:
    • Only compatible with fixed-coil pods
  • Note: Great for all-day vaping
  • VooPoo VMATE Pro Power:
    • Compact pod mod with 900mAh battery
    • Power output up to 30W
    • Airflow slider for MTL to loose draw
    • Auto-draw activation and smart mode for ease of use
    • Uses replaceable mesh coil pods for enhanced flavour
  • Pros:
    • Adjustable power output
    • Impressive flavour from mesh pods
  • Cons:
    • Smaller battery compared to others
  • Oxva Xlim Pro 2:
    • Modern pod kit with 1300mAh battery
    • Comes with 0.6Ω mesh coil pod
    • Features a small screen displaying power and battery status
    • Auto-draw only (no button firing)
    • Includes airflow control slider
  • Pros:
    • Beginner-friendly and simple to use
    • Long battery life
    • Enhanced flavour from mesh pods
  • Cons:
    • Slightly higher price point
    • Lacks manual button firing option
    • Innokin Trine Q:
      • Pen-style device mimicking a cigarette-like feel
      • 1050mAh battery capacity
      • Compatible with 0.6Ω and 0.8Ω coils
      • Option to attach a filter tip for a more authentic smoking sensation
      • Adjustable airflow on the pod
    • Pros:
      • Familiar and satisfying MTL draw
      • Custom airflow for a tailored experience
    • Cons:
      • A cylindrical body may be less pocket-friendly

    Need help choosing your first vape? Our guide’s got you covered, check out the top kits today, Read more.

FAQs About Nic Salt Vape Kits

Can I use nic salts in any vape device?

Technically, you can put nic salt liquid in many vapes, but it works best in low-wattage, MTL devices. Avoid high-power sub-ohm tanks: they’ll vaporise the liquid too fast and feel harsh. In short, use nic salts in pod kits or vape pens (MTL kits) and do not use them in any high-powered box mod.

How long do pods last?

Pod lifespan varies. A pre-filled disposable pod might last a couple of days (200–600 puffs), depending on your usage. Refillable pods last until you finish the liquid or the coil goes bad. A built-in coil pod in an MTL kit often lasts about 1–2 weeks of regular use before flavour fades or the coil burns out. (Varying e-liquids and vaping habits can shorten or lengthen this. Always refill before emptying to keep the coil healthy.)

Are nic salts safe?

Nic salts contain nicotine, which is addictive, but vaping (with any e-liquid) is much safer than smoking. UK health agencies emphasise that vaping carries only a small fraction of the Vaping avoids tar and combustion toxins in tobacco smoke. That said, nicotine is still a stimulant. Use nic salts responsibly: keep doses reasonable and avoid nicotine if you don’t already smoke. Pregnant women and non-smokers should not vape. For quitting smoking, experts note that vaping (and nicotine salts) is far safer than continuing to smoke.

What about safety tips?

Always buy kit and e-liquids from reputable UK sources (they follow strict regulations). Charge devices on a stable surface, never leave charging overnight, and keep liquids/pods away from children. If you experience any unusual side effects, stop vaping and seek medical advice.

Nic salt safety (side question):

Nic salts themselves aren’t inherently more dangerous than other nicotine e-liquids. They simply deliver nicotine efficiently. The main health concern remains nicotine addiction. No vaping product is 100% risk-free, but switching from cigarettes to vaping is a major health improvement.

Final Thoughts

Nicotine salts offer a smooth, satisfying vape hit that closely mimics smoking, making them an excellent choice for beginners. They let you satisfy cravings quickly and gently, especially when used with the right MTL kit. Just remember to choose a beginner-friendly pod or pen device (around 10–20W, ~1Ω coil) and start with a nicotine strength that feels comfortable. Take it slow at first – the goal is to curb cigarette use, not exceed your nicotine needs.

If you’re a smoker looking to switch, give a nice-salt starter kit a go. Many new vapers find it an easy transition. And if you’re curious, most UK vape shops and online retailers have trial kits or mix-and-match deals. Pick a reliable starter kit, fill it with a UK-made nic salt e-liquid (20mg is common), and enjoy the gentle nicotine hit. Before long, you’ll see why so many beginners prefer nic salts. Ready to try? Grab a beginner nic salt vape kit uk with nic salt e-liquid from a trusted UK shop and experience a smoother switch away from cigarettes today!

Thomas Meredith

Sales Assistant – Liverpool

Thomas is a sales assistant and a writing expert at GreetVape Liverpool. He specialises in helping new vapers understand products like coils, pods, and e-liquids with his vast experience in the vaping industry. Thomas also writes clear, beginner-friendly guides and FAQs for the GreetVape blog, sharing knowledge based on real customer interactions to ensure accurate and helpful information.