Sub ohm Vaping What is it and How to Start?
Sub-ohm vaping is a special vaping style requiring a special device. This specific type produces larger clouds and often require big heavy-duty devices. These devices are also known as sub-ohm kits, use the Direct to lung (DTL) method.
Sub-ohm vaping is a style of vaping that is associated with generating larger vapour clouds, more flavour and a wider inhaling experience than would traditional mouth-to-lung (MTL) vaping. It is popular amongst advanced vapers who prefer DTL vaping and are seeking greater performance from their device.
As opposed to the normal starter setups which have coils with resistance above 1.0 ohm with lower power settings, sub-ohm vape kits are made with coils that have a resistance under 1.0 ohm and more powerful output. The purpose of these coils is to operate at higher wattages, which will help to vaporize more e-liquid per puff.
Features like wattage control, mesh coils, leak-proof tanks and smart power control have made modern sub-ohms much easier to use. There are numerous kits available that provide great flavor and a simple experience for those leaving behind the simple vape pens or pods.
Here, we will be discussing sub-ohm vaping in detail, including what it is, how it works, its pros and cons, the types of e-liquids you can use with it, and how to find the perfect sub-ohm vape kit.
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Table of Contents
What Is Sub-Ohm Vaping?
Sub-ohm vaping is a vaping method that uses coils with a resistance below 1.0 ohm. Coil resistance affects how much electrical power is required to heat the coil and how much vapour can be produced.
Lower resistance coils allow more electricity to pass through the coil, resulting in higher temperatures and creating:
- Larger vapour production
- Richer flavour
- Faster e-liquid consumption
- A more powerful vaping experience
Most sub-ohm vape kits are designed for Direct-to-Lung (DTL) vaping. This means vapour is inhaled directly into the lungs, unlike Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) vaping where vapour is first held in the mouth before being inhaled.
Sub-ohm vaping is generally preferred by experienced vapers who want stronger flavour, larger vapour clouds and a more advanced vaping experience.
How Does Sub-Ohm Vaping Work?
A sub-ohm vape kit works using three main components:
1. Low Resistance Coils
The coil is the heating element inside a vape tank or pod system. Sub-ohm coils are designed to operate at higher wattages and usually have a resistance below 1.0 ohm.
Common sub-ohm coil examples include:
- 0.15ohm coil: Requires higher wattage and produces large vapour clouds.
- 0.2ohm coil: Provides strong flavour and increased vapour production.
- 0.4ohm coil: Offers a balance between flavour and vapour production.
Many modern sub-ohm coils use mesh coil technology instead of traditional wire coils. Mesh coils provide:
- More even heating
- Faster ramp-up time
- Improved flavour production
- Longer coil lifespan
2. Higher Wattage Output
Sub-ohm vape devices can operate anywhere from around 20W to over 100W depending on the device and coil type.
Higher wattage allows the coil to heat faster and vaporise more e-liquid. However, users should always stay within the manufacturer's recommended wattage range.
Using excessive power can result in:
- Burnt flavour
- Faster coil wear
- Excessive heat
3. High VG E-Liquid
Sub-ohm vaping works best with high VG (vegetable glycerine) e-liquids because they produce thicker vapour and smoother clouds.
Recommended VG/PG ratios include:
- 70VG / 30PG
- 80VG / 20PG
Popular e-liquids used with sub-ohm devices include:
- Shortfill e-liquids
- 0mg nicotine e-liquids with nicotine shots added
- Low nicotine e-liquids such as 3mg or 6mg
High-strength nicotine salts are generally not recommended for powerful sub-ohm devices because they can deliver nicotine too quickly.
Sub-Ohm Vaping vs MTL Vaping
| Feature | MTL Vaping | Sub-Ohm DTL Vaping |
|---|---|---|
| Inhalation Method | Mouth to Lung | Direct to Lung |
| Coil Resistance | Above 1.0ohm | Below 1.0ohm |
| Vapour Production | Low to Medium | High |
| Flavour Intensity | Good | Strong |
| Airflow | Tight Draw | Open Airflow |
| E-Liquid Type | 50/50 E-Liquid | High VG Shortfills |
| Nicotine Strength | Higher Nicotine Options | Lower Nicotine Options |
| Best For | Beginners and Smokers Switching to Vaping | Experienced Vapers |
Benefits of Sub-Ohm Vaping
1. Improved Flavour
One of the biggest advantages of sub-ohm vaping is enhanced flavour. Larger coils, increased airflow and higher vapour production allow more flavour compounds to be delivered with each puff.
2. Bigger Vapour Clouds
Sub-ohm vape kits are popular among users who enjoy larger vapour clouds. The combination of:
- Low-resistance coils
- Higher wattage output
- High VG e-liquid
creates significantly more vapour compared with standard pod devices.
3. More Airflow Options
Most sub-ohm tanks include adjustable airflow controls, allowing users to customise their vaping style.
Adjustable airflow allows you to choose:
- A tighter or smoother DTL draw
- A cooler or warmer vape experience
- More or less vapour production
4. Improved Performance with Premium Devices
Modern sub-ohm vape kits include advanced features that improve usability and performance, such as:
- Adjustable wattage
- Temperature control
- OLED displays
- Fast USB-C charging
- Smart coil recognition
- Leak-resistant tanks
These features make modern sub-ohm devices easier and safer to use compared with older high-powered vaping devices.
Sub-Ohm Vaping Safety Advice
Modern sub-ohm vape kits include various safety features, but it is still important to use them correctly. Higher-powered devices require extra care because they operate at higher wattages and generate more heat.
Following these safety tips can help improve your vaping experience and maintain your device performance.
Use the Correct Coils
Always use coils that are compatible with your vape tank or device. Using incorrect coils or coils outside the recommended resistance range can affect performance and may cause issues.
Incorrect coils can lead to:
- Poor performance
- E-liquid leakage
- Burnt flavour
- Potential device problems
Before replacing a coil, check the recommended resistance and wattage range provided by the manufacturer.
Follow Battery Safety Guidelines
If your sub-ohm vape device uses external batteries, always follow proper battery safety practices.
Always:
- Use high-quality batteries from reputable brands
- Check battery wraps for damage before use
- Store batteries safely when not in use
- Use the correct charger
- Keep loose batteries away from keys, coins and other metal objects
Never use damaged batteries, as they may become unsafe during use.
Keep Your Device Clean
Regular cleaning helps maintain your vape kit's performance and prevents common issues.
Clean the following parts regularly:
- Tank connections
- Pod contacts
- Mouthpiece
- Charging port
Replacing coils regularly also helps maintain flavour quality and reduces the chance of leaks.
Can You Use Nicotine Salts in a Sub-Ohm Vape?
High-strength nicotine salts are generally not recommended for sub-ohm vape devices. Sub-ohm kits produce significantly more vapour than low-power pod systems, which means nicotine can be delivered much faster.
Most sub-ohm vapers use:
- 0mg shortfill e-liquids
- 3mg e-liquids
- 6mg e-liquids
Nicotine salts are usually better suited for:
- Low-wattage pod kits
- Mouth-to-lung (MTL) devices
- Beginner vape kits
Sub-Ohm Vaping FAQs
What does sub-ohm mean in vaping?
Sub-ohm refers to vape coils with a resistance below 1.0 ohm. These coils are designed for higher power output and produce more vapour and flavour compared with standard vape coils.
What are the advantages of sub-ohm vaping?
Sub-ohm vaping is popular among users who want:
- More vapour production
- Stronger flavour
- A direct-to-lung (DTL) inhale
However, users who prefer a cigarette-like draw may find MTL devices more suitable.
Are sub-ohm vape kits suitable for beginners?
Beginners can use sub-ohm vape kits, but they should understand how the device works before using one. It is important to learn about coil replacement, wattage settings and suitable e-liquids.
What e-liquid is best for sub-ohm vaping?
High VG e-liquids are recommended for sub-ohm devices because they provide smoother vapour production and improved flavour.
Popular ratios include:
- 70VG / 30PG
- 80VG / 20PG
What nicotine strength should I use with a sub-ohm vape?
Most sub-ohm users choose lower nicotine strengths, such as:
- 0mg
- 3mg
- 6mg
The ideal strength depends on your personal preference and previous vaping habits.
When should I replace a sub-ohm coil?
Most sub-ohm coils typically last around 1 to 2 weeks, depending on usage, e-liquid type and wattage settings.
Replace your coil when you notice:
- Burnt taste
- Reduced flavour
- Lower vapour production
- Gurgling sounds
Why does my sub-ohm vape taste burnt?
A burnt taste usually occurs because of:
- An old or worn-out coil
- A coil that was not properly primed
- Wattage being set too high
- Low e-liquid levels in the tank
Replace the coil and ensure you use the device within the recommended wattage range.
Can a sub-ohm vape help me quit smoking?
Many people use vaping as an alternative to smoking, but choosing the right device depends on personal preference. Some smokers prefer MTL devices because they provide a similar experience to smoking, while others prefer sub-ohm devices for stronger flavour and increased vapour production.
Conclusion: Is Sub-Ohm Vaping Right for You?
Sub-ohm vaping provides a more powerful experience with enhanced flavour, larger vapour production and greater customisation compared with traditional starter devices.
It is especially popular among experienced vapers who enjoy:
- Direct-to-lung vaping
- High VG e-liquids
- Adjustable power settings
- Rich flavour production
When choosing a sub-ohm vape kit, consider how coils, wattage, airflow and e-liquid selection affect your overall vaping experience.
With the right device, compatible coils and suitable e-liquid, sub-ohm vaping can provide a smooth and enjoyable experience. Explore Ninja Vapes' range of vape kits, replacement coils and high VG e-liquids to find a setup that matches your vaping style.
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Rabbya Tahir serves as Content Manager at Ninja Vapes, where she directs the production of the company's guides and reviews. Her expertise lies in distilling technical product knowledge into clear, actionable content for a broad customer base. Committed to accuracy and accessibility in equal measure, she ensures that every article — from beginner's guides to advanced maintenance tips — reflects the practical realities of everyday vaping.
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