Difference Between Freebase and Salt Nicotine
If you are new to vaping, one of the first questions you will face is the difference between freebase nicotine and nicotine salts. Both are used in e-liquids, but the vaping experience is very different.
The wrong choice can lead to harsh throat hits, poor satisfaction, or damaged coils. This guide explains the difference in clear and simple terms so you can choose the right option.
What Is Freebase Nicotine?
Freebase nicotine is the traditional form of nicotine used in vaping. It provides a noticeable throat hit and absorbs more slowly into the bloodstream.
Best for:
- Experienced vapers
- Users who prefer a strong throat hit
- Sub-ohm devices and box mods
- Direct-to-Lung (DTL) vaping
Recommended strength:
- 3mg to 12mg
Ideal VG/PG ratio:
- 60/40 or 70VG / 30PG
Freebase nicotine works best at higher wattages and produces more vapour.
What Are Nicotine Salts?
Nicotine salts are made by combining nicotine with benzoic acid. This process makes the nicotine smoother and easier to inhale, even at higher strengths. Nicotine salts absorb faster and provide quicker satisfaction.
Best for:
- Beginners
- Pod system users
- Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) vaping
- Smokers trying to quit
Recommended strength:
- 20mg to 35mg
Ideal VG/PG ratio:
- 50VG / 50PG
Nicotine salts produce less vapour but deliver nicotine efficiently.
Freebase vs Salt Nicotine – Key Differences
| Feature | Freebase Nicotine | Nicotine Salts |
| Throat hit | Strong | Smooth |
| Nicotine absorption | Slower | Faster |
| Best devices | Sub-ohm, mods | Pod systems |
| Vaping style | DTL | MTL |
| Strength range | 3mg – 12mg | 20mg – 35mg |
| Vapour production | High | Low to medium |
| Beginner friendly | No | Yes |
Choosing the Right Nicotine for Your Device
- Pod systems (0.8Ω – 1.4Ω): Nicotine salts
- Sub-ohm devices (0.7Ω or lower): Freebase nicotine
- Disposable vapes: Usually nicotine salts
- Box mods: Freebase nicotine
Simple rule:
High-resistance coils work best with salts.
Low-resistance coils work best with freebase.
User Experience Comparison
Choose nicotine salts if you want:
- Smooth hits
- Fast nicotine satisfaction
- A cigarette-like draw
Choose freebase nicotine if you want:
- Strong throat hit
- Better flavour performance
- Higher vapour production
If your coil burns quickly, you may be using nicotine salts in a high-wattage device.
FAQs
Is nicotine salt stronger than freebase?
Yes. Nicotine salts feel smoother at higher strengths, while freebase becomes harsh at similar levels.
Can freebase nicotine be used in pod systems?
Yes, but only at low strengths such as 6mg or 12mg.
Which nicotine is better for quitting smoking?
Nicotine salts are usually recommended because they deliver nicotine faster and feel closer to cigarettes.
Can I switch from salts to freebase?
Yes. Many users start with salts and later move to freebase for flavour and cloud production.
Final Recommendation
- Beginners and smokers: Nicotine salts
- Experienced users and cloud chasers: Freebase nicotine
Choosing the correct nicotine type improves safety, satisfaction, and overall vaping experience.
