Are you new to vaping and wondering which e-liquid is right for you? With so many options, choosing between nicotine salts (nic salts) and freebase nicotine can feel overwhelming. Don’t worry—we’re here to break it down in a way that’s clear, practical, and tailored for UK vapers like you. At Vapes Venture, we’re passionate about helping you find the perfect vape, especially if you’re an ex-smoker looking for a satisfying alternative. In this guide, we’ll compare nic salts and freebase nicotine, explain why nic salts are often the best choice in 2025, and recommend top starter kits to get you going.
Nicotine salts are a form of nicotine extracted directly from tobacco leaves and combined with benzoic acid. This process lowers the pH level, resulting in a smoother throat hit even at higher nicotine strengths (like 20mg). Nic salts are designed to be absorbed quickly by your body, delivering a nicotine hit in as little as 6-10 seconds—similar to a cigarette. They typically come in a 50/50 VG/PG ratio, making them perfect for low-wattage, mouth-to-lung (MTL) devices like pod kits.
At Vapes Venture, our Hayati and Elux nic salt e-liquids offer bold flavors like Blue Razz Lemonade and Watermelon Ice, crafted to enhance your vaping experience with smooth, satisfying hits.
Freebase nicotine is the traditional form of nicotine used in most early e-liquids. It’s processed with ammonia to increase its pH, creating a stronger throat hit that intensifies with higher nicotine strengths (above 12mg). Freebase nicotine absorbs more slowly than nic salts and is often found in high-VG e-liquids suited for sub-ohm devices that produce big clouds. While some vapers love the robust sensation, it can be too harsh for beginners or ex-smokers.
| Feature | Nicotine Salts | Freebase Nicotine |
|---|---|---|
| Throat Hit | Smooth, gentle even at 20mg | Harsh at higher strengths |
| Nicotine Absorption | Fast (6-10 seconds) | Slower, less immediate |
| Best Devices | MTL pod kits (10-25W) | Sub-ohm kits (40W+) |
| Nicotine Strengths | 5mg, 10mg, 20mg | 3mg, 6mg, 12mg (higher is rare) |
| Ideal For | Ex-smokers, flavor lovers | Cloud chasers, throat hit enthusiasts |
| Flavor Quality | Intense, clear flavors | Can be muted at high strengths |
If you’re transitioning from smoking or starting fresh, nicotine salts are a game-changer. Here’s why they’re the top choice for UK vapers this year:
Nic salts let you vape higher nicotine strengths (like 20mg) without the scratchy, irritating throat hit you’d get from freebase nicotine. This makes them ideal for heavy smokers who need a strong dose to curb cravings. With Hayati and Elux nic salts from Vapes Venture, you’ll enjoy a silky-smooth vape every time.
Nic salts mimic the quick nicotine hit of cigarettes, satisfying cravings almost instantly. This rapid absorption means you vape less often, saving e-liquid and battery life—perfect for busy UK vapers on the go.
Nic salts shine in low-power MTL devices, preserving the vibrant flavors of e-liquids like Hayati’s Blueberry Ice or Elux’s Triple Melon. Unlike high-VG freebase liquids, nic salts don’t require powerful mods, making them cost-effective and beginner-friendly.
If you’re quitting smoking, nic salts replicate the cigarette experience with their fast nicotine hit and MTL vaping style. Paired with a pod kit, they’re a seamless transition. Plus, with the UK’s disposable vape ban, nic salts in refillable pods are an eco-friendly and affordable alternative.
Available in 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg strengths, nic salts cater to light and heavy smokers alike. Brands like Hayati and Elux at Vapes Venture offer a range of fruity, menthol, and dessert flavors to keep your vape exciting.
To get the most out of nic salts, you need a reliable MTL pod kit. Here are our top recommendations for 2025, perfect for use with Hayati and Elux nic salts:
Pro Tip: Always use devices with a coil resistance of 0.8-1.2 ohms for the best nic salt performance.
At Vapes Venture, we’re committed to quality and satisfaction. Our Hayati and Elux nic salt e-liquids are UK-made, crafted with pharmaceutical-grade ingredients for a premium vaping experience. Whether you’re craving the tangy kick of Blue Razz Lemonade or the cool rush of Watermelon Ice, we’ve got flavors to suit every palate. Pair them with our recommended pod kits for a vape that’s smooth, flavorful, and tailored to you.
Nicotine salts are the ultimate choice for new UK vapers in 2025, offering a smooth, fast-acting, and flavorful experience that’s perfect for ex-smokers. Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant flavors of Hayati or the bold blends of Elux, Vapes Venture has everything you need to kickstart your vaping journey. Explore our range of nic salts and pod kits today and discover why nic salts are taking the UK by storm!
Disclaimer: Nicotine is addictive. Always vape responsibly and keep products out of reach of minors.
Have questions about nic salts or need help choosing the right kit? Reach out to the Vapes Venture team!
Let’s find your perfect vape together!
Read more from us:
Why 10ml Is Still King: How TPD Rules Shape the UK E-Liquid Market
PG vs. VG: Understanding E-Liquid Ratios for UK Vapers
