Salt Nic vs Freebase: Which One Is Better for You? Leave a comment
Have you started vaping since it comes with a world of flavors and options to explore? But before diving into the fun part, you should know which type of e-liquid suits your needs best.
If you started with a mouth-to-lung vape pen or pod kit, there is a high chance that you have already tried freebase or nic salts, but finding the right option can still be confusing. You might be wondering, are nic salts really better than freebase? How much nicotine does freebase e-liquid contain? And is vaping nic salts actually safe?
These are questions we are going to discuss in this article. After knowing the key differences, you can help yourself with the best possible choice. So, let’s take a look!
What Are Nic Salts?
Nic salts, or nicotine salts, are a form of nicotine that naturally occurs in tobacco leaves. When combined with liquid, nic salts create a type of e-liquid that many vapers prefer. Unlike the purified, distilled nicotine found in typical e-liquids, the nicotine in nic salts is absorbed more quickly into the bloodstream. Because of this, it provides a fast and efficient way to satisfy your nicotine cravings.
However, despite getting a smooth experience, many people wonder whether vaping nic salts is safe or not.
Well, it’s natural to feel cautious when trying a new product, and vape is not an exception. Aside from their addictive properties, nic salts are considered as safe as freebase nicotine. For those who prefer a lower dose, nic salts offer a great alternative to freebase without additional concerns.
However, it’s essential to be mindful of their addictive nature. E-liquids with nic salts can be more habit-forming due to their higher nicotine levels. When starting with nic salts, opting for lower strengths is often a good idea.
What Are Freebase E-Liquids?
Freebase nicotine is the original form of nicotine used in e-liquids. They are also known as conventional nicotine. It’s converted from its natural “salt” state into a purified form, which makes it more potent without increasing the dose.
This form of nicotine offers a stronger throat hit, which many vapers enjoy, though it can feel harsh at higher strengths. Typically, freebase nicotine is best suited for those who like a more intense sensation and prefer to take smaller, more frequent puffs.
Usually, freebase nicotine is available in various strengths, ranging from 0mg to 20mg per milliliter. Some countries restricted anything above 20 mg due to regulatory guidelines.
Salt Nic vs Freebase: Which One Is Better
Now, it’s time to discuss the main point of this article. We are going to talk about the key pros and cons of salt nic and freebase. In this way, you will be aware of the side effects of vaping salt nicotine, and freebase and decide the suitable one for yourself.
Advantages of Nicotine Salts
Smoother Inhalation
Nicotine salts are known for providing a much smoother throat hit, even at higher nicotine levels.
Quick Nicotine Absorption
Nic salts are absorbed into the bloodstream rapidly—often within 15 to 20 seconds. Because of the speed, it helps to curb cravings faster and keep them at bay for longer.
Higher Nicotine Levels Available
Many nic salt e-liquids are formulated with higher nicotine strengths, which is particularly beneficial for those transitioning from cigarettes.
Cost-Effective and Efficient
Since nic salts deliver a more concentrated dose, users generally don’t need to vape as frequently. Therefore, they refer as an economical option.
Powerful Nicotine Hit
The higher potency in nic salts satisfies nicotine needs with smaller puffs. It reduces cravings for longer stretches.
Similar Experience to Smoking
Nic salts offer a throat hit that is almost the same as cigarette smoking. If you just quit smoking, this might be a familiar option for you.
Compatible with Budget-Friendly Devices
These salts work well in low-wattage devices like pod systems, which are priced affordably and often include a complimentary e-liquid.
Beginner-Friendly Choice
These salts are generally compatible with affordable, user-friendly pod devices. Moreover, most vape kits compatible with nicotine salts are simple to operate, portable, and lightweight. Many models even offer prefilled pods.
Longer Shelf Life
Nic salts tend to oxidize more slowly than freebase liquids. They have more shelf life and stay fresh longer.
Drawbacks of Nicotine Salts
Reduced Vapor Production
Nicotine salts produce less vapor than freebase e-liquids, which may be a disadvantage for those who enjoy large, dense clouds.
Not Ideal for High-Wattage DTL Devices
Nic salts aren’t compatible with high-wattage, direct-to-lung (DTL) setups, as they can cause harsh hits and potential leaking in these devices. Those who prefer high wattage might find low-strength freebase e-liquids (such as 3mg or 6mg) a better fit.
Limited Nicotine Strength Options
Nic salts are commonly available in 10mg (medium) and 20mg (high) concentrations. Freebase e-liquids offer more than that.
Advantages of Freebase E-Liquids
Wide Range of Flavors
Freebase nicotine allows for a greater variety of flavors since it doesn’t affect taste as much as nicotine salts. This provides vapers with a broad selection of unique and vibrant flavor profiles.
Enhanced Vapor Production
Freebase e-liquids, especially those with a high VG (Vegetable Glycerin) content, produce more vapor. Vapes who enjoy creating larger clouds during vaping sessions simply fall in love with this feature.
Pure Nicotine Form
Freebase e-liquids contain nicotine in its purest form, without additional compounds. Pro vapers like this purity.
Flexible Vaping Style
Freebase options cater to different vaping preferences: high VG varieties suit direct-to-lung (DTL) vaping, while high PG options are better for mouth-to-lung (MTL) vaping. On the other hand, a 50:50 PG blend offers a smooth throat hit and moderate cloud production.
Variety of Nicotine Strengths
Freebase e-liquids offer more nicotine strength choices, typically available in options like 0mg, 3mg, 6mg, 12mg, and 18mg, allowing users to choose the ideal level to match their preferences.
Drawbacks of Freebase E-Liquids
Stronger Throat Hit
In the nic salt vs freebase strength comparison, freebase is the winner! Freebase nicotine can feel harsher, especially at higher strengths, which may not be comfortable for those sensitive to strong throat hits.
Slower Nicotine Absorption
Freebase nicotine takes longer to be absorbed into the bloodstream, which may delay the feeling of satisfaction that nic salts provide more quickly.
Higher Consumption Required
Users often need to vape more freebase e-liquid to get the same level of satisfaction as they would with nic salts. It makes the vapers consume more e-liquid.
Reduced Flavor Intensity
Adding nicotine to freebase e-liquids can sometimes lessen flavor intensity, especially at higher nicotine levels. Sometimes it impacts the overall taste experience.
Salt Nic vs. Freebase: Which Is Healthier?
After seeing the pros and cons of each option, you might feel confused about which is the healthier one. Basically, the health comparison between nic salts and freebase nicotine largely boils down to the addition of an acid, usually benzoic or citric acid. This added acid transforms pure nicotine into a salt form.
However, both benzoic and citric acids naturally occur in our bodies. So, there is no significant difference in safety between nic salts and freebase e-liquids.
Moreover, guidelines from the World Health Organisation’s International Program on Chemical Safety suggest that safe daily intake levels for these acids are around 5 mg per kilogram of body weight. It would be nearly impossible to inhale a harmful quantity of acid through vaping alone.
Is It Possible to Switch from Nic Salts to Freebase?
Yes, switching from salt nic to freebase e-liquid is possible, as both types of nicotine can be used interchangeably in terms of strength. If you are accustomed to using 3 mg nic salts, for instance, you can easily swap to a 3 mg freebase e-liquid without changing the nicotine concentration.
However, there are a few factors to consider when transitioning. You have to keep in mind that lower-powered devices produce less vapor, which may impact the intensity of the throat hit you experience with freebase nicotine.
Moreover, as you see earlier, Nic salts are absorbed faster by the body than freebase. For example, the effects of a 20 mg nic salt feel more immediate compared to a 20 mg freebase e-liquid.
Because of these issues, it’s often helpful to start with a lower nicotine strength to adjust to the different throat feel and absorption rate. You can then gradually work up if needed and find the most comfortable strength for your preference.
Final Words
Hopefully, this salt nic vs freebase discussion clears your confusion regarding this topic. The choice between nic salts and freebase e-liquids ultimately depends on personal preference and vaping style.
If you find yourself chasing clouds and have a strong need for nicotine, freebase e-liquids may be your ideal option. On the other hand, if you awre looking for higher nicotine concentrations without the harsh throat hit, nic salts could be the better fit. For more insights into e-liquids and to explore a diverse selection of vaping products, visit SkyVape. SkyVape is ready to meet all your vaping-related needs.
