Understanding e-liquid: Composition, strength and selection

An e-liquid consists of four basic ingredients: vegetable glycerine (VG), propylene glycol (PG), food flavourings and, optionally, nicotine. VG is viscous and creates the visible vapour cloud, whilst PG is thinner and delivers the flavour and the throat hit sensation. The mixing ratio – often specified as 50/50, 60/40 or 70/30 VG/PG – determines whether a liquid is more suitable for pod systems or for high-powered vaporisers.

In Switzerland, e-liquids containing nicotine have been regulated since 2024 in accordance with the Tobacco Products Act: a maximum of 20 mg/ml nicotine, bottles of up to 10 ml for ready-to-use e-liquids containing nicotine, and sale exclusively to adults aged 18 and over. Nicotine-free bases and short fills may have larger volumes. The difference between an e-liquid and a flavouring is important: flavourings are concentrates that must first be mixed with a base – they cannot be vaped directly.

The choice of vape liquid depends on your device and your vaping style.

Ready-to-use liquids in 10 ml

The 10 ml bottle is the standard for nicotine-containing liquids. Flavour and strength (0, 3, 6, 12, 18 or 20 mg/ml) are pre-mixed. Ideal for beginners and anyone using a pod system or an MTL (mouth-to-lung) cigarette.

Shortfills and longfills

Shortfills are nicotine-free e-liquids in larger bottles (usually 50 or 100 ml with space for nicotine shots). Longfills come as a highly concentrated flavouring in a larger bottle, which you fill yourself with base liquid. Both variants are suitable for frequent users and sub-ohm setups, as they are cheaper per millilitre.

Nicotine salt e-liquids

Nic Salts use a modified form of nicotine that feels gentle on the throat even at high concentrations. They are primarily used in pod systems and disposable vapes, where 10 to 20 mg/ml is required.

• Choose a device that suits the e-liquid: 50/50 blends and nicotine salts are suitable for pod systems and MTL vapes. For sub-ohm tanks from 0.5 ohms and over 30 watts, 70/30 VG e-liquids are the better choice.
• Assess nicotine strength realistically: Those switching from cigarettes usually start with 9–20 mg/ml (nicotine salt) or 12 mg/ml (freebase). For those who vape only occasionally, 3–6 mg/ml is often the right choice.
• Narrow down the flavour profile in advance: fruity, menthol, tobacco, dessert or drinks – a clear preference prevents buying the wrong product. Small 10 ml bottles are ideal for testing.
• Check quality and origin: Reputable manufacturers print the batch number, use-by date and full list of ingredients on the label. Ensure compliance with Swiss regulations.
• Note storage instructions: Store e-liquids in a cool, dark place and out of reach of children. After mixing with nicotine shots, allow the mixture to stand for at least a few hours so that the flavour can develop.

How much e-liquid do I use per day?

Consumption depends on the device. A pod system often requires 2–4 ml per day, whilst a sub-ohm tank can vapourise 5–10 ml or more. For regular users, switching to short fills is worthwhile.

Can I order e-liquid online in Switzerland?

Yes. Ready-to-use liquids with and without nicotine may be sold online, provided that age verification is carried out and the legal limits on volume and strength are observed. Dispatch usually takes place from a Swiss warehouse.

What does VG/PG mean on the label?

VG stands for vegetable glycerine (vapour density), PG for propylene glycol (flavour and throat hit). A 50/50 e-liquid is balanced; 70/30 VG produces more vapour but is only suitable for devices with higher power.

How long does an e-liquid last?

Around two years unopened, and approximately six to twelve months once opened. Colour changes are normal; if the flavour seems musty or has changed significantly, the bottle should be discarded.

Finding the right e-liquid is primarily a question of device, nicotine requirement and flavour. If you stick to the key factors of VG/PG mix, mg/ml strength and bottle size, you’ll avoid the most common mistakes. The easiest way to start is with two or three 10-ml bottles of different flavours and work your way towards your favourites. In our selection of e-liquids, you’ll find ready-to-use varieties, short fills and nicotine shots for every setup – sold exclusively to adults aged 18 and over.