How do I choose the right vape?

First, choose what you want to vape. Then, compare device size, controls, battery life, and cost. A pod system is often a simple option for a new user. A box mod gives an experienced user more control.

What's the difference between MTL and DTL vaping?

MTL means mouth-to-lung. It uses a tight draw and sends vapor to your mouth before your lungs. DTL means direct-to-lung. It uses an open draw and sends vapor directly to your lungs.

Where can I learn more about vaping?

Read our guides about vape devices, use, and safety. You can also read our product reviews to compare devices.

MTL vs. DTL: Vaping Styles Explained

MTL and DTL are 2 different ways to inhale vapor. MTL uses a tight, 2-step draw. DTL uses an open, 1-step draw.

Your draw style affects your device, coil, power, nicotine strength, and e-liquid. Use this guide to select the correct setup.

What Is MTL Vaping?

MTL means mouth-to-lung. First, draw the vapor into your mouth. Then, inhale the vapor into your lungs.

This method feels similar to a cigarette draw. It usually uses low power and makes a small amount of vapor.

Characteristics of MTL

Airflow: Tight and restricted
Vapor: A small amount
Nicotine strength: Usually 12-20 mg/mL freebase or up to 50 mg/mL salt nicotine
Power: Usually 8-15 watts
Coil resistance: Usually 1.0 ohm or more

Best MTL Devices

Common MTL devices include:

Pod systems, such as OXVA XLIM and Caliburn devices
Pen-style vapes, such as the Innokin Endura
Box mods with MTL tanks

Read our vape coil guide for more information about coil resistance.

What Is DTL Vaping?

DTL means direct-to-lung. Draw the vapor directly into your lungs with 1 continuous inhale.

This method uses open airflow and higher power. It usually makes much more vapor than MTL.

Characteristics of DTL

Airflow: Open and airy
Vapor: A large amount
Nicotine strength: Usually 3-6 mg/mL freebase
Power: Usually 30-200 watts or more
Coil resistance: Usually less than 1.0 ohm

Best DTL Devices

Common DTL devices include:

Sub-ohm tanks
Rebuildable dripping atomizers (RDAs)
High-power pod mods

Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature	MTL	DTL
Draw	Mouth first, then lungs	Directly to lungs
Airflow	Tight and restricted	Open and airy
Vapor	Small amount	Large amount
Nicotine	Usually 12-50 mg/mL	Usually 3-6 mg/mL
Power	Usually 8-15 W	Usually 30-200 W or more
Coil	Usually 1.0 ohm or more	Usually less than 1.0 ohm
E-liquid	Usually 50/50 VG/PG	Usually 70/30 VG/PG
Battery use	Low	High

Which Style is Right for You?

Choose MTL If

Choose MTL if one or more of these statements are true:

You want a draw that feels similar to a cigarette draw.
You want to make less vapor.
You use a high nicotine strength.
You want simple controls.
You need longer battery life.

Choose DTL If

Choose DTL if one or more of these statements are true:

You want to make large vapor clouds.
You want an open draw.
You use a low nicotine strength.
You want more power and airflow controls.
You usually vape where large clouds will not disturb other people.

E-Liquid Considerations

Use an e-liquid that is compatible with your device and coil. The wrong liquid can cause leaks, dry hits, or a harsh throat hit.

For MTL

Use a 50/50 VG/PG liquid for most MTL devices.
Use 20-50 mg/mL salt nicotine or 12-18 mg/mL freebase nicotine.
Check the device instructions before you use a different ratio or strength.

A thinner liquid moves through a small MTL coil more easily. PG also gives a stronger throat hit than VG.

For DTL

Use a 70/30 or 80/20 VG/PG liquid.
Use 3-6 mg/mL freebase nicotine.
Check the coil label for the permitted power range.

A high-VG liquid makes more vapor. A low nicotine strength helps prevent a harsh hit at high power.

Can You Use Both Styles?

Yes. You can use an MTL device in one situation and a DTL device in another situation.

For example, you can use an MTL device when you want less vapor. You can use a DTL device when large clouds are acceptable.

Some devices, such as the OXVA XLIM Pro, have adjustable airflow. This adjustment can change the draw. The installed coil must also support the selected style.

Common MTL Problems

Dry hits: Do not use a liquid that is too thick for the coil.
Nicotine discomfort: Do not start with a nicotine strength that is too high.
Flooding and spitback: Do not pull too hard on the mouthpiece.

Common DTL Problems

Harsh hits: Do not use high-strength nicotine in a DTL device.
Empty tank: Check the liquid level frequently. DTL devices use more liquid.
Battery hazards: Use the correct batteries and charger. Follow the device instructions.

Getting Started

If you are new to vaping, use this sequence:

Select an MTL starter device if you want a cigarette-like draw.
Read the device instructions.
Use the e-liquid ratio that the manufacturer specifies.
Start at the lowest permitted power setting.
Increase the power in small steps until the vapor is satisfactory.

Do not use damaged batteries or devices. Read our beginner's guide to vaping before you use your first device.

MTL vs. DTL: The Final Choice

MTL and DTL serve different needs. Select MTL for a tight draw, low power, high nicotine strength, and less vapor.

Select DTL for an open draw, high power, low nicotine strength, and more vapor. Read our guide to vape product types for help with device selection.