Beginner’s Glossary: Vaping Terms You Should Know
If you’re new to vaping, the terminology can feel overwhelming. From coils and mods to e-liquids and sub-ohm vaping, there’s a whole new language to learn. This vaping glossary will help you understand the most important vaping terms so you can vape with confidence. Whether you’re shopping for your first vape kit or trying to make sense of an online forum, this beginner’s guide will clear up the confusion and set you on the right path.
Why a Vaping Glossary Matters for New Vapers
Stepping into the vaping world means navigating unfamiliar jargon. Without understanding basic terms, choosing the right device or e-liquid becomes difficult. This guide will help you avoid mistakes and make informed decisions from the beginning.
Essential Vaping Device Terms
Vape
A vape is a device that heats e-liquid into vapor, which the user inhales. Also known as a vaporizer, it’s the core of the vaping experience.
Mod
A mod is the main body of a vape. It contains the battery and controls. Mods vary in power, features, and size. Beginners often start with simple mods, while advanced users choose more powerful ones.
Atomizer
The atomizer is the part of the vape that heats the e-liquid. It houses the coil and wick. Without it, there’s no vapor production.
Coil
A coil is a wire or mesh that heats up when powered. It vaporizes the e-liquid soaked into the wick. Coils come in various resistance levels that affect flavor and vapor output.
Wick
The wick draws e-liquid from the tank to the coil. Common materials include cotton or ceramic. The wick must be saturated to prevent dry hits.
Tank
A tank holds the e-liquid. It’s attached to the mod and connects to the coil and mouthpiece. Refillable tanks are common, but disposable pods are also available.
Pod
Pods are small refillable or pre-filled cartridges used in pod systems. They are ideal for new users because of their simplicity and ease of use.
Common E-Liquid Terms
E-Liquid (Vape Juice)
E-liquid, also called vape juice, is the fluid used in vapes. It’s heated to create vapor. It contains propylene glycol (PG), vegetable glycerin (VG), flavorings, and sometimes nicotine.
PG (Propylene Glycol)
PG is a thin liquid that carries flavor well. It delivers a stronger throat hit, similar to smoking. PG is ideal for those who want a cigarette-like sensation.
VG (Vegetable Glycerin)
VG is thicker and produces more vapor. It offers a smoother inhale but slightly mutes flavors. High VG e-liquids are used in cloud chasing.
Nicotine Salt
Nicotine salts are a form of nicotine used in low-power devices. They allow for a higher nicotine concentration without harshness, making them perfect for smokers transitioning to vaping.
Freebase Nicotine
Freebase nicotine is the traditional form used in most e-liquids. It delivers a stronger throat hit and is more commonly found in sub-ohm setups.
Vaping Styles Explained
MTL (Mouth-to-Lung)
MTL vaping mimics smoking. You draw vapor into your mouth, then inhale. It uses higher resistance coils and lower wattages. Great for beginners.
DTL (Direct-to-Lung)
DTL vaping involves inhaling vapor directly into the lungs, like taking a deep breath. It requires powerful devices and low-resistance coils. Often used for large clouds.
Sub-Ohm
Sub-ohm vaping refers to using coils with less than 1.0 ohm resistance. It produces more vapor and is ideal for DTL vapers. Requires more advanced gear and knowledge.
Device Operation Terms
Wattage
Wattage is the power output of your vape. Adjustable wattage lets users customize vapor and flavor. Higher wattage usually means more vapor, but also faster coil wear.
Voltage
Voltage controls the electrical pressure sent to the coil. Most modern vapes regulate this automatically. Understanding voltage is useful when using mechanical mods.
Resistance (Ohms)
Resistance refers to how much the coil restricts electric current. Measured in ohms, lower resistance = more vapor, higher resistance = tighter draw and cooler vape.
Airflow
Airflow refers to how much air passes through the coil. Adjustable airflow allows vapers to control draw tightness, vapor production, and temperature.
Priming
Priming means saturating a new coil with e-liquid before use. It prevents dry hits and extends coil life. Always prime your coil before vaping a new setup.
Maintenance and Safety Terms
Dry Hit
A dry hit happens when the coil is not properly saturated with e-liquid. It produces a burnt taste and can damage the coil.
Burnt Coil
A burnt coil gives off a foul taste. It means the coil has overheated or wasn’t primed. Replace it immediately to protect your device and health.
Steeping
Steeping is letting e-liquid sit over time to allow flavors to develop. Some vapers prefer steeped e-juices for richer taste.
Battery Safety
Understanding battery safety is critical. Use proper chargers, don’t overcharge, and avoid damaged batteries. Explosions are rare but possible if safety is ignored.
Ohm’s Law
Ohm’s Law relates voltage, current, and resistance. It’s crucial when using mechanical mods where safety is fully in the user’s hands.
Popular Vaping Accessories
Drip Tip
A drip tip is the mouthpiece of a vape. It can be changed for comfort or style. Some are wide for clouds, others narrow for flavor.
RDA (Rebuildable Dripping Atomizer)
An RDA allows users to build their own coils. You drip e-liquid directly onto the wick. It’s great for flavor chasers but not beginner-friendly.
RTA (Rebuildable Tank Atomizer)
An RTA combines the rebuildable feature of RDAs with a tank. It’s more convenient than dripping but requires building knowledge.
Charger
A charger is used to power up vape batteries. Some are built-in, others are external. Always use the charger that matches your battery type.
Social and Cultural Terms
Cloud Chasing
Cloud chasing is the act of producing large vapor clouds. It’s a competitive subculture within the vaping community.
Flavor Chasing
Flavor chasing is focused on maximizing e-liquid taste. Typically involves high-resistance coils and lower wattages.
Vape Trick
Vape tricks involve manipulating vapor into shapes like rings or dragons. Popular among younger vapers and on social media platforms.
Vape Modding
Modding refers to customizing vape hardware. From aesthetic changes to performance enhancements, it’s a hobby for enthusiasts.
Vaping Laws and Regulations
TPD (Tobacco Products Directive)
TPD is an EU regulation that governs the sale and marketing of vaping products. It limits tank sizes, nicotine strength, and labeling.
Age Restriction
In most countries, vaping is restricted to adults 18 or older. Always check your local laws to ensure compliance.
Vape-Free Zones
Public vaping is prohibited in many areas, similar to smoking bans. Respect signs and local laws regarding vape use.
Your First Step into the Vaping World
Understanding vaping terms is your first step toward a better vaping experience. With this vaping glossary, you’ll be able to choose the right device, troubleshoot issues, and communicate confidently with other vapers. As you gain experience, you’ll encounter even more specialized terms, but the basics above will serve as a solid foundation.
FAQs
What is the difference between PG and VG in vape juice?
PG (propylene glycol) offers stronger flavor and throat hit, while VG (vegetable glycerin) produces more vapor and a smoother inhale.
What is a sub-ohm coil?
A sub-ohm coil has a resistance below 1.0 ohm. It allows for more vapor production and is typically used in direct-to-lung vaping.
Do I need to prime a vape coil before using it?
Yes. Priming a coil by saturating it with e-liquid before first use helps prevent dry hits and extends coil life.
Is vaping safer than smoking?
While not entirely risk-free, vaping is generally considered less harmful than traditional smoking, especially for adults switching from cigarettes.
Can I mix different e-liquids?
Yes, but make sure they have compatible VG/PG ratios and nicotine strengths. Mixing flavors is common, but always test in small amounts first.
