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All vapers employ a vaping style whether they’re aware of it or not. For the uninitiated, MTL, DTL and RDL are nothing more than acronyms on a list of specs.
However, it’s important to find out what your vaping style is, as it’ll determine what vape kits, e-liquids and coils you should go for.
Before getting your hands on a new vape kit, you’ll want to get more familiar with your style, so that you can be sure that you’ve made the the right choice.
If you’ve already picked up a vaping device, and it’s not quite what you expected, then it might just have something to do with the intended inhalation technique.
So, let’s talk about the different vaping styles and what they mean for your vaping experience.
Key Takeaways
- MTL (Mouth-To-Lung) vaping mimics the familiar feeling of smoking a cigarette.
- DTL (Direct-To-Lung) vaping is more like smoking shisha, it involves inhaling the vapour directly into your lungs.
- RDL (Restricted Direct-To-Lung) vaping serves as a middle ground between MTL and DTL.
- DTL vapers use sub ohm vape kits with high-VG e-liquids (like shortfills) to achieve increased vapour production and deeper flavour.
- MTL vapers prefer pod vapes, starter kits and vape pens, typically pairing them with 50/50 e-liquid and nic salts — ideal for discreet vapour production.
What is a vaping style?
Your vaping style simply refers to the way that you inhale vapour. Since different inhalation techniques require different levels of power and vapour production, each vaping style is suited to a specific type of vape kit and e-liquid.
Some vapers take fast, deep draws straight into their lungs, while others prefer a softer, slower inhale, much like smoking a cigarette.
Many vapers fall somewhere in between — and there’s even a term for this middle ground.
Understanding your personal vaping style is essential when selecting vaping devices and vape juice, as choosing the wrong product can lead to an unpleasant experience.
It can be a right pain spending almost £30 on a high-powered vape device, only for it to feel like being punched in the throat when you try to vape nic salts.
If you’re new to vaping and looking for your first vape kit, we suggest checking out our Ultimate Beginners Guide to Vaping for a more tailored introduction.
Now, let’s explore these different vaping styles.
Different Vaping Styles
There are two primary vaping styles — Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) and Direct-to-Lung (DTL) — along with a hybrid style known as Restricted Direct-to-Lung (RDL).
The key difference between MTL, DTL, and RDTL vaping lies in how you inhale the vapour.
When comparing the different styles of vaping, you’ll want to consider your inhalation technique, the type of vape juice you prefer, your nicotine intake, and the level of vapour production you’re looking for.
Mouth-To-Lung (MTL) Vaping
MTL vaping is the process of drawing vapour before inhaling — just like you would with cigarette smoke.
This is why a lot of those switch from smoking to vaping start out with an MTL style inhale, as the more familiar feeling tends to ease them into it.
Most MTL vapers prefer disposables, starter kits, vape pens, or pod devices, although some use vape mods equipped with MTL tanks.
These low-wattage devices produce thinner vapour at cooler temperatures, typically pairing well with e-liquids that have a higher propylene glycol (PG) content.
MTL is popular for its satisfying throat hit, closely resembling the sensation of smoking traditional cigarettes.
It allows for the use of high-nicotine e-liquid, such as nic salts — which provide a smooth throat hit and satisfy nicotine cravings very quickly.
Direct-To-Lung (DTL) Vaping
DTL vaping, also known as sub ohm vaping, involves inhaling vapour directly into your lungs.
It feels quite similar to smoking with a water pipe or bong, or even just breathing.
It’s favoured by more experienced vapers who prefer bigger clouds and low-nicotine vape juice.
Due to their penchant for large clouds of vapour, DTL vapers use high-powered sub ohm vape kits, or advanced vape mods with sub ohm tanks attached.
These vaping devices can output higher wattages and produce larger amounts of vapour than MTL kits — so they’re perfect for cloud-chasing.
If you’ve gotten yourself a sub ohm kit, then you’ll want to pair it with an e-liquid high in VG (vegetable glycerine).
This can be a shortfill or a 100% VG e-liquid.
Restricted Direct-To-Lung (RDL) Vaping
RDL vaping acts as a middle ground of sorts between MTL and DTL vaping. You can think of it as an airier or looser style of MTL vaping, combining a cigarette-like inhale with the larger clouds of DTL vaping.
When employing an RDL vape style, you’ll be partially holding the vapour in your mouth before inhaling.
RDL-specific vape kits are rare, but many MTL kits feature an adjustable airflow and compatibility with multiple coil resistances, enabling an RDL experience.
Likewise, some DTL vapes also feature different coil resistances and an adjustable airflow that can be restricted to deliver an RDTL puff.
RDTL vaping is a popular choice among intermediate vapers who seek more vapour and deeper flavour.
A lot of MTL vapers gradually transition to the RDL style the further they embark on their vaping journey.
Benefits of RDL
Restricted Direct-To-Lung vaping offers the best of both worlds when it comes to flavour, throat hit and cloud production.
RDL vapers have the luxury of enjoying the thick clouds of DTL, alongside the more familiar inhale and higher nicotine strength options that MTL allows for.
If you’re an intermediate vaper who’s after a bit more vapour, but you still want to vape nicotine salts, or other high-strength and 50/50/high-PG e-liquids, then a vape kit that supports RDTL vaping is an excellent choice.
What type of vape kit suits my style?
Every vape kit on the market is tailored to a specific vaping style. If you’re a DTL vaper and purchase an MTL kit, you may find the draw too tight and unsatisfying.
On the other hand, if you’re an MTL vaper and accidentally pick up a DTL kit, you’ll experience more vapour and heat than expected.
MTL Vape Kits
MTL kits typically fall under a few categories: disposable vapes, starter vape kits, vape pens, and pod vapes.
These devices are compact, low-powered, low-maintenance, and intended to deliver a smooth and satisfying MTL inhale — using high-nicotine e-liquids like nic salts and 50/50 freebase nicotine blends.
MTL starter vape kits are particularly suited to beginners, as they typically have fewer settings and require minimal maintenance, making them more accessible and user-friendly for new vapers.
Additionally, since they’re compatible with high-nicotine vape juice, which is perfect for transitioning smokers looking to make a successful switch to vaping.
DTL Vape Kits
DTL vape kits, also known as sub ohm kits, are generally larger than MTL kits and come with bigger batteries to support their higher power usage.
These devices create large, thick clouds of vapour, and are designed for use with high-VG e-liquids, such as shortfills and 100% VG blends.
Direct To Lung vape kits are ideal for seasoned vapers who enjoy customising their vaping experience, as these devices usually offer more settings and features.
However, the complexity of sub ohm kits makes them less suitable for beginners.
They also aren’t the best option for those trying to quit smoking, as they work better when paired with low-nicotine e-liquid.
RDL Vape Kits
Vape kits specifically designed for RDTL vaping are fairly uncommon. What you are more likely to find are MTL and DTL devices that feature the option of an RDL inhale as a bonus — this is typically more common of MTL kits.
This is made possible by an adjustable airflow, variable wattage, and compatibility with different coil resistances.
If you prefer e-liquid with higher propylene glycol (PG) content or more nicotine, but want more vapour than a standard MTL device can provide, you can opt for an MTL kit that supports RDL for a similar experience.
Conversely, DTL kits that offer RDL are a great choice if you’re planning to use low-nicotine and/or high-VG e-liquids. If in doubt, you can always check the product description of each vape device to see if it supports RDL vaping.
What vape coils do I need to support my vaping style?
All vape kits use coils, and the coil you should choose depends on how you vape and what type of e-cigarette you use. Vape coils are measured in a unit of electrical resistance called ohms (Ω).
MTL devices use high-resistance coils above 1.0Ω, while DTL kits are compatible with lower-resistance coils below 1.0Ω. Low-resistance coils are also called sub ohm coils, which is where sub ohm vaping gets its name from.
High-Resistance Coils (MTL/RDL)
As mentioned, MTL vaping typically requires a coil resistance of over 1.0Ω.
That said, some coils included with MTL kits can go as low as 0.8 or even 0.6 ohms — both perfect for RDTL vaping.
These coils don’t require as much power, and use less e-liquid, making them ideal for use with a starter kit, vape pen, or pod vape.
MTL coils are intended to be used with thinner e-liquid mixed to a 50/50 PG/VG ratio, though they can also work with 60% PG e-liquids.
Low-Resistance Coils (DTL)
DTL style vaping utilises coil resistances below 1.0Ω (as in sub-ohm, get it?), with a coil resistance between 0.2Ω and 0.5Ω considered to be the sweet spot by many cloud-chasers.
Sub ohm coils require more power and consume more vape juice compared to MTL coils. They are typically used in sub ohm vape kits and tanks.
They’re suited to thicker e-liquids with a higher vegetable glycerine (VG) content, such as most shortfills.
Due to their design, sub ohm coils create huge clouds of vapour, which is a major draw for DTL vapers.
What type of e-liquid is best for my vaping style?
Another thing that you’ll want to consider when comparing the different styles of vaping, is the type of e-liquid that you prefer.
Like we said, MTL vapers will want to go for thinner e-liquids that contain at least 50% PG. DTL vapers, on the other hand, should opt for thicker e-liquid blended to a concentration of at least 70% VG.
When buying some new e-liquid to pair with your vape kit, checking the VG/PG ratio is crucial to enjoying a satisfying vaping experience.
50/50 & High-PG E-Liquids
If you’re a MTL vaper, it’s important to choose an e-liquid with a VG/PG ratio of at least 50/50, although any high-PG e-liquid will do just fine.
Since PG is a lot thinner than VG, they’re more suitable for low-powered kits and higher-resistance coils.
One advantage of vaping mouth-to-lung (MTL), is that you can use higher nicotine strengths up to 20mg (2% nicotine).
You’ll find a wide range of nicotine salt e-liquids available from 5mg to 20mg, and freebase nicotine e-liquid ranging from 3mg to 18mg.
Vaping a higher-VG e-liquid in an MTL kit can burn your coil prematurely and cause leaking, gurgling, and spitting from the mouthpiece of your pod or tank.
A good tip for MTL vapers would be to look out for e-liquids in 10ml bottles, as this is the legal volume limit nicotine-containing e-liquid in the UK.
High-VG E-Liquid
DTL vapers will need an e-liquid mixed to a concentration of least 70% VG, which is typical for most shortfills.
Due to the higher power and lower-resistance coils required for DTL, a thicker e-liquid is necessary to prevent premature coil burnout.
Since sub ohm vaping allows for large amounts of vapour, it’s best to use e-liquids with nicotine strengths between 0mg and 3mg (with 6mg being the maximum).
Vaping higher nicotine strengths can result in a harsh, uncomfortable throat hit and increase your nicotine intake excessively.
Always ensure you’re using the correct e-liquid for your vaping device.
Using a high-PG vape juice, like a nicotine salt, in a sub ohm kit will not only be unpleasant, but can also cause your coil to burn out too quickly. You may also experience significant leaking and spitting from your vape.
If you’re a DTL vaper, we recommend looking out for larger 50ml or 100ml bottles of shortfill e-liquid, as they’re typically blended to a concentration of 70% VG or above for use with sub ohm coils.
What nicotine strength suits my vaping style?
Nicotine content is a crucial factor in determining your vaping style. Mouth-To-Lung vaping supports the use of higher nicotine strengths, while DTL vaping is limited to lower-strength e-liquid.
If you’re new to vaping and have recently quit smoking, it’s recommended to start with a higher nicotine strength that matches your previous smoking habits, increasing your chances of quitting successfully.
On the other hand, light or casual smokers, as well as those who have been vaping for some time, may prefer lower nicotine strengths.
Recommended Nicotine Strengths For MTL/RDL
Mouth-To-Lung is perfect for those who need a higher nicotine strength, making it ideal for most beginners.
This vaping style allows for nicotine strengths up to the legal UK limit of 20mg (2%).
With MTL, you can vape e-liquid ranging in nicotine strength from 3mg to 20mg, which is why it’s the preferred choice for individuals who rely on e-liquid to stay away from cigarettes.
Nic salts, which are a very popular option among MTL vapers, are available in strengths of 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg.
If you prefer a slightly harsher throat hit, freebase e-liquid is available in strengths of 3-18mg.
Recommended Nicotine Strengths For DTL
If you don’t rely on high-strength e-liquid so much, then opting for a sub ohm vape kit is a good shout.
Since these devices consume more vape juice per puff, we recommend that DTL vapers don’t go for a nicotine strength any higher than 3mg — it might be a little overpowering otherwise.
Direct-To-Lung vaping is ideal for those who were light smokers, as well as more experienced vapers who don’t need to consume as much nicotine.
It’s also pretty handy if you’re trying to go nicotine-free, since shortfill e-liquid designed for sub ohm kits and coils doesn’t contain any.
What power output is best for my vape style?
When deciding what wattage to vape at, according to your inhale style, you’ll want to understand how the differences in airflow and coil resistance come into play.
When you have a good grasp of this, you can pick a power output that matches your desired level of vapour production and flavour.
By adjusting the wattage according to your vaping style and coil resistance (if your device allows it), you can ensure the best possible performance from your vape.
Best Wattage For Mouth-To-Lung Vaping
The ideal wattage output for MTL devices typically falls between 10W and 20W. This output range suits higher-resistance coils.
The lower power level helps to enhance the throat hit and provides a more satisfying nicotine delivery without overwhelming the user with large clouds of vapour.
MTL setups also conserve e-liquid and battery life due to their lower wattage consumption, making them perfect for starter vape kits and those looking for a more controlled, satisfying vape.
MTL mimics the sensation of smoking a traditional cigarette, producing more discreet amounts of vapour and enhanced flavour when used with high-PG and 50/50 e-liquid — particularly nicotine salts and other high-strength options.
Best Wattage For Restricted Direct-To-Lung Vaping
For RDTL vaping, the ideal wattage range is more versatile, often sitting between 20W and 40W. RDL bridges the gap between MTL and DTL, offering the more restricted airflow of the former, but with the bigger clouds of the latter.
It’s often favoured by vapers who want a slightly looser MTL inhale without the full-on intensity of a DTL vape.
RDL is ideal for those who prefer moderate cloud production and a balanced throat hit, commonly using freebase e-liquid or nicotine salts.
Best Wattage For Direct-To-Lung Vaping
DTL kits requires a much higher wattage range, typically between 40W and 100W or even higher, depending on the coil and device.
This higher wattage range works best with shortfills, which are usually higher in VG (vegetable glycerine).
E-liquid with a higher VG content requires more power to vaporise properly, resulting in dense clouds and smooth throat hits.
Seasoned sub ohm vapers often use vape mods or box mods that can handle the increased power demands, ensuring consistent performance and longer usage between charges.
Adjusting Wattage For Personal Preference
While these wattage ranges provide a good starting point for each vape style, it’s worth noting that vaping preferences, coil type, and e-liquid can all affect the best wattage to opt for.
Many e-cigarettes and mods feature variable wattage settings, allowing users to fine-tune their vaping experience to their liking.
Conversely, most of the more beginner-friendly e-cigarettes keep things simple with auto-wattage selection, which detects the resistance of your coil and automatically sets the best wattage output to match it.
This setting saves new vapers the guesswork of trying to work the wattage out themselves.
It’s important to check the manufacturer’s recommendations for coil wattage, as exceeding these limits can cause coil burnout or negatively affect the flavour.
Most coils come with a suggested wattage range printed on the coil itself, ensuring you stay within safe operating levels for optimal performance.
By selecting the correct wattage for MTL, DTL, or RDL, you can maximise your device’s performance, extend coil life, and enhance your overall vaping experience.
What vaping style matches my level of experience?
There’s a reason why direct-to-lung vaping is the better style for more experienced vapers.
Most vapers start with mouth-to-lung vaping and gradually transition to a RDL as they become more familiar with vaping (and start wanting a bit more in terms of cloud production and flavour).
MTL devices tend to be easier to use, require less maintenance, and are designed with newbies in mind.
As your nicotine dependence decreases, you may want to switch to DTL/sub ohm vaping, which allows you to enjoy low-strength e-liquid and larger clouds, while using more customisable hardware.
Currently, most sub ohm kits offer a high level of personalisation, with features like adjustable wattage, temperature control, coil options, and more.
Advanced vapers can personalise their setup to offer a more tailored experience, though mastering all the settings comes with a learning curve.
This is why DTL vapers are often more experienced than MTL users, and it’s reflected in the complexity of the devices they use.
Summary
MTL, DTL, and RDL are the acronyms that shape everything from the e-cigarettes and coils you use, to how you inhale vapour, which is why it’s crucial to understand the differences before making a purchase.
It’s important to not only choose the right kit but also ensure it’s paired with the correct coils and e-liquid for a satisfying experience.
By now, you should be more familiar with the different vape styles. MTL is perfect for new vapers, RDL is better for intermediate users, and DTL is typically suited for more seasoned vapers.
Both of the two main styles have their pros and cons, and require specific hardware and e-liquid to function effectively.
If you’re still unsure about the differences between MTL, DTL and RDTL vaping, or if you need a hand in finding the right vape kit, coil, or e-liquid, our friendly customer support team is ready to assist.
Contact us by phone, email, or live chat, and one of our expert vapers will guide you in finding the perfect setup for you.
