Nic Salts vs Freebase | What is the difference?

In the world of vaping, nicotine comes in two main forms: Nicotine Salts (Nic Salts) and Freebase Nicotine. These two types of nicotine have distinct differences in their chemical structure, absorption rates, and overall vaping experience. Whether you’re new to vaping or a seasoned vaper looking to switch things up, understanding the differences between these two can help you make an informed decision. In this article, we’ll dive deep into what sets Nic Salts and Freebase Nicotine apart, their pros and cons, and which one might be the best fit for your needs.

What is freebase nicotine?

Freebase nicotine is the traditional form of nicotine used in most e-liquids. It is created by stripping away the natural acids found in nicotine, resulting in a purer and more potent form of nicotine. This process increases the pH level, making freebase nicotine more alkaline. As a result, it provides a stronger throat hit, which many experienced vapers enjoy. Freebase nicotine is typically used in lower concentrations, ranging from 3 mg/mL to 18 mg/mL, and is ideal for high-powered vaping devices like sub-ohm tanks

The downside to vaping freebase nicotine

While freebase nicotine is popular among vapers, it does have some drawbacks. The higher pH level makes it harsher on the throat, which can be uncomfortable for some users, especially beginners. This harshness often leads vapers to lower the nicotine concentration in their e-liquids, which may not fully satisfy their cravings. Additionally, freebase nicotine is absorbed more slowly by the body compared to nicotine salts, meaning it takes longer to feel the effects. This slower absorption can sometimes lead to over-vaping, as users try to compensate for the delayed satisfaction.

What is Nicotine salts?

Nicotine salts, or Nic Salts, are a newer form of nicotine that has gained popularity in recent years. Unlike freebase nicotine, Nic Salts retain the natural acids found in tobacco leaves, resulting in a smoother and more stable form of nicotine. This makes Nic Salts less harsh on the throat, even at higher concentrations. Nicotine salts are typically used in concentrations ranging from 20 mg/mL to 50 mg/mL and are best suited for low-powered devices like pod systems. The addition of acids like Benzoic acid or Citric acid allows Nic Salts to be absorbed more quickly by the body, providing a faster and more satisfying nicotine hit.

Which is safer – nicotine salt or freebase nicotine?

When it comes to safety, neither nicotine salts nor freebase nicotine is completely risk-free. Both forms of nicotine are addictive and can have adverse health effects if used excessively. However, nicotine salts are often considered a better option for those who find freebase nicotine too harsh. The smoother throat hit and faster absorption of Nic Salts make them more satisfying for many users, potentially reducing the urge to vape excessively. On the other hand, freebase nicotine allows for more precise control over nicotine intake, which can be beneficial for those who prefer a more gradual experience.

Which should you choose?

Choosing between nicotine salts and freebase nicotine ultimately depends on your personal preferences and vaping goals. If you’re looking for a smoother experience with faster nicotine delivery, Nic Salts are likely the better choice. They are particularly well-suited for beginners or those transitioning from smoking to vaping, as they mimic the quick nicotine hit of a cigarette. On the other hand, if you enjoy a stronger throat hit and prefer to control your nicotine intake more precisely, freebase nicotine might be the better option. It’s also a great choice for experienced vapers who use high-powered devices and enjoy cloud chasing.

Our top nic salt and 50:50 picks

If you’re considering trying Nic Salts or 50:50 e-liquids, here are some of our top recommendations:

Nicotine Salts: Brands like Naked 100 SaltJuice Head Salt and Pachamama Saltoffer a wide range of flavors and nicotine strengths to suit your preferences.

50:50 E-liquids: For a balanced blend of flavor and nicotine satisfaction, try products likeDinner Lady 50:50Riot Squad Hybrid or Element NS20. These e-liquids are perfect for low-powered devices and provide a smooth vaping experience.

Why is nic salt more expensive?

Nicotine salts are generally more expensive than freebase nicotine due to the more complex production process. The addition of acids like Benzoic acid or Citric acid requires advanced technology and higher-quality raw materials. Additionally, the faster absorption and smoother throat hit provided by Nic Salts make them more desirable, which can also drive up the price. While the initial cost may be higher, many users find that Nic Salts provide a more satisfying experience, reducing the need to vape excessively and potentially saving money in the long run.

How much nicotine is in freebase vape juice?

The nicotine content in freebase vape juice typically ranges from 3 mg/mL to 18 mg/mL, although some brands offer higher concentrations. The exact amount of nicotine depends on your personal preferences and the type of device you’re using. Lower concentrations are ideal for high-powered devices, while higher concentrations are better suited for low-powered devices. It’s important to choose a nicotine strength that satisfies your cravings without causing discomfort or over-vaping.

The Science Behind Nicotine Salts

Nicotine salts are not the same as table salt (sodium chloride). In chemistry, a salt is formed when an acid reacts with a base. Nicotine in its natural state in tobacco leaves is already in a salt form. To make nicotine salts suitable for vaping, acids like Benzoic acid or Citric acid are added. This modification has three key benefits:

1. Faster Absorption: Nicotine salts are absorbed more quickly by the body, providing a satisfying experience similar to smoking.
2. Lower Vaporization Temperature: Nicotine salts can be vaporized at lower temperatures, making them ideal for low-powered devices.
3. Smoother Throat Hit: The addition of acids lowers the pH level, resulting in a much smoother throat hit compared to freebase nicotine.

This scientific innovation has made nicotine salts a popular choice for many vapers, especially those transitioning from smoking to vaping.

The Difference Between Nic Salts and Vape Juices Explained

Whether you knew about them before or, like many, you discovered them through disposable vapes, there’s no denying the popularity of Nic Salt e-liquids. While not as expansive as some disposable flavor offerings, many brands, including LiQuid, have developed their own range of Nic Salts. Over the years, we’ve gained a deep understanding of these specialized vape juices.

For many people, the difference between a standard 50-50 e-liquid and a Nic Salt is less obvious. Even some seasoned vapers may not fully understand the distinction and simply vape what’s in front of them. The good news is, it’s not all that complicated. To help you understand the differences and similarities, we’ve put together this quick guide!

What is a 50-50 Freebase E-Liquid?

The key word here is freebase – it specifically refers to the nicotine used when making an e-liquid. 50-50 simply refers to the amount of PG (Propylene Glycol) and VG (Vegetable Glycerin) used in the e-liquid. Most ‘core’ e-liquids use a 50-50 split of these ingredients, hence the name.

Freebase nicotine is the only thing that changes compared to a Nic Salt – everything else in the e-liquid is the same. They use the same PG, VG, and flavorings, and are often blended to a 50-50 recipe. Freebase nicotine is the type used in pretty much every vaping product, with the exception of Nic Salts. When it is made, pure nicotine is diluted down into PG or VG (PG in the case of LiQuid) until it reaches a specific concentration that can then be accurately measured as part of the e-liquid recipe.

It is called freebase because the nicotine molecules are freely suspended in a base material – free-base. It is a mixture, not a solution, because the nicotine is not fully dissolved into the base PG; it is essentially floating in there. Freebase e-liquids are typically available in a range of nicotine strengths, such as 0mg (nicotine-free), 3mg, 6mg, 12mg, and 18mg.

What is a Nic Salt E-Liquid?

Nic Salts are a little different – as we’ve said, the only difference between these and freebase is the type of nicotine used. Every other ingredient is the same, and they are mixed to the same ratios.

Nic Salts get their name because, during production, they are specially combined with an ‘organic salt acid’. This might sound odd, but there’s a method to the madness – it neutralizes the taste of the nicotine. Nicotine is naturally very alkaline, which is why freebase has a harsher taste and throat hit at higher strengths like 12mg and 18mg. When Nic Salts are produced, adding the acid molecule helps to neutralize this alkaline pH, resulting in a very smooth nicotine experience.

Not only is Nic Salt incredibly smooth to vape, even at high strengths like 20mg, but the nicotine also has an easier time absorbing into your body. This means it hits harder, faster, and lasts longer. You might wonder, if Nic Salts do all of this, why do we even bother with freebase? Well, that’s all down to personal taste and the needs of your vaping journey.

Nic Salt e-liquids are typically found in two strengths: 10mg and 20mg. Despite being quite high in nicotine, neither hits your throat much at all. In fact, they are more like vaping a 3mg or 6mg freebase e-liquid.

Should You Vape Nic Salt or Freebase?

As mentioned earlier, the answer to this question depends on two main factors:

1. Personal Taste: Some people prefer the harshness of a freebase 18mg to get their ideal throat feel, especially if they come from an intense smoking habit. Others, regardless of their previous smoking intensity, find the harshness of freebase too much and prefer the smoothness of Nic Salts.
2. The Needs of Your Journey: If you don’t enjoy throat hit but need a decent nicotine hit to beat your cravings, Nic Salts are the way to go. If you enjoy a harsher hit and want something reminiscent of smoking, choose a medium-high strength freebase e-liquid.

Which Vape Kits Are Best for Nic Salt & Freebase 50-50 E-Liquid?

Any standard vaping device will run both freebase and Nic Salt e-liquids, as long as the device and coil are suited to 50-50 blends. Most devices will give recommendations on their packaging, so be sure to check these out. If you’re unsure about the differences between vape hardware, our guide, How to Vape Properly, can help you get your head around it all and match it to your chosen e-liquid type.

For Nic Salts, disposable vape devices are almost always filled with Nic Salt e-liquid, making them a convenient way to try Nic Salts. However, disposable vapes are not environmentally friendly and have caused some issues in the UK. If you must use them, try to stick to the circa 600 puff varieties, as these have a better chance of being safety tested.

Conclusion

Choosing between nicotine salts and freebase nicotine depends on your personal needs and preferences. Nicotine salts are a better option for those seeking a smoother experience with faster absorption, while freebase nicotine is more suitable for those who want precise control over their nicotine intake. Both options have their unique benefits, and the best choice depends on your individual vaping goals. Whether you prefer the smoothness of nicotine salts or the intense flavor of freebase nicotine, both options can provide a satisfying vaping experience.