MTL vs DTL Vaping
With all the terms slang and acronyms you may encounter like MTL, DTL, PG, VG and various e-liquid strengths, picking the right vape kit can be tricky. Knowing these terms can help you select the right vape kit in the UK and e liquid mix for your desired vape experience.
The most popular vaping methods are Mouth To Lung (MTL) and Direct To Lung (DTL). While both are similar in that they both use an e-cigarette or a vape device to vaporise an e-liquid there are some differences in the way you inhale the type of device you use and the ratio of the e-liquid that will work well for each style.
In this guide VapePlay UK will outline the distinction between MTL and DTL vaping the typical vape kits and e-liquids found in each style and some essential factors to consider before deciding on a choice.
What is MTL Vaping?
MTL stands for Mouth To Lung.
MTL vaping involves inhaling vapour into the mouth before it is breathed into the lungs. Overall the style is quite similar to drawing on a conventional cigarette, and MTL is a style that many adult vapers are familiar with.
MTL vape kits generally have narrower air passages and lower wattage coils. Generally, this produces less vapour than a high powered DTL setup.
There are many compact and easy to use MTL vape kits, such as pod systems, refillable pod kits, and some vape starter kits.
What Does MTL Vaping Feel Like?
Typical features of an MTL inhale include:
- Drawing vapour into your mouth.
- Keeping the vapour in the mouth for a short period of time.
- Inhaling it into your lungs.
- Exhaling normally.
MTL is a unique form of vaping because of the limited air intake and mouth-first inhaling. For a less deep inhalation, but more controlled, an MTL device can be considered.
What is DTL Vaping?
DTL stands for Direct To Lung.
DTL vaping means that the vapour is breathed in directly into the lungs, not into the mouth first. Typical DTL devices are generally designed to produce larger quantities of vapour than typical MTL devices, and typically have more open airflow.
DTL vaping is generally used with higher-powered vape kits, sub-ohm vaping tanks and lower resistance coils.
These devices require a bit more power and generate more vapour so are normally used with e-liquids specifically designed for this kind of configuration.
How Does DTL Vaping Work?
If you inhale normally, it consists of:
- Opening the flow to desired level.
- Inhalation by breathing the vapour directly into the lungs.
- Breathing out on the exhale.
Generally, the draw is more open and spacious than MTL vaping.
MTL vs DTL: What is the Difference?
The main difference between MTL and DTL vaping is how the vapour is inhaled.
| Feature | MTL Vaping | DTL Vaping |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Mouth To Lung | Direct To Lung |
| Inhale style | Mouth, then lungs | Directly to lungs |
| Airflow | More restricted | More open |
| Vapour production | Generally lower | Generally higher |
| Typical devices | Pod kits, starter kits | Sub-ohm and higher-powered kits |
| Coil style | Higher resistance | Lower resistance |
| Common e-liquid preference | Higher PG or balanced blends | Higher VG blends |
| Typical experience | Controlled, cigarette-style draw | Open, airy draw |
These are general characteristics, not rules. Some vape kits will allow for adjustable airflow and power, which can offer a variety of vaping experiences.
Which Vape Kit Is Better for MTL Vaping?
There isn't a universal best vape kit that is ideal for everybody. If you prefer an MTL experience, however, you'll want to find a device with a focus on:
- Modulated or limited air flow
- Higher-resistance coils
- Lower power output
- Compact pod-style designs
- Pods that can be re-used or come pre-filled.
- E-liquids made specifically for MTL use.
MTL pod kits are especially favored by those who value simplicity and minimalism in their setup.
Another important factor to consider before buying a vape kit UK is the product specifications, coil resistance and recommended e-liquid range.
Which Vape Kit Is Better for DTL Vaping?
Typically, DTL vaping will need a more powerful device with an appropriate low-resistance coil.
A vape kit for DTL can include:
- Adjustable wattage
- More open airflow
- Lower-resistance coils
- Higher capacity tanks or pods
- Higher power output
- Greater vapour production
The sub-ohm vape kit is a classic aspect of DTL vaping. But not all the sub-ohm devices are created equal, however, and you should always verify the manufacturer's specifications.
Choosing E-Liquid for MTL Vaping
Your choice of e-liquid PG/VG ratio can influence how an e-liquid performs in a particular vape kit.
PG is propylene glycol and VG is vegetable glycerine. Both are commonly used as bases in e-liquids. The ingredients are usually the main components of a vape product, and PG and VG are typical constituents of vapes, according to HM Revenue & Customs.
The most popular e-liquids for MTL vape kits are those with a higher PG ratio or a balanced PG/VG mix, depending on the type of device and coil.
Note that a higher PG mix tends to be thinner than a high VG mix and thus can be used on many lower-powered MTL devices.
MTL e-liquids come in a wide variety of types, such as:
- Nicotine salt e-liquids
- There are also traditional freebase nicotine e-liquids available.
- Balanced PG/VG e-liquids
- Tobacco flavours
- Fruit flavours
- The menthol/ice flavour is a popular one that many enjoy.
- Dessert flavours
Always be sure to consult the manufacturer's suggested ratio for your vape kit when adding e-liquids.
Choosing E-Liquid for DTL Vaping
DTL vape kits tend to be more powerful and are generally combined with higher-VG e-liquids.
The VG is thicker than PG and is used in a lot of e-liquids that are made for devices that can deal with the thicker VG.
High-VG e-liquids typically come with a higher price tag and are often marketed as being used in conjunction with the proper higher-powered devices and coils, hence the naming of e-liquid.
When choosing a DTL e-liquid, look out for:
- The suggested ratio of PG to VG is:
- Coil resistance
- Recommended wattage
- Compatibility of the tank or pod.
- Nicotine strength
- Manufacturer's instructions
The most important thing to remember is that not all e-liquids are compatible with all devices, as using an e-liquid that is incompatible with your device may affect the performance.
MTL vs DTL Nicotine Strength
Another important factor to take into account when selecting e-liquid is its strength of nicotine.
Nicotine e-liquids and containers are regulated in the UK. The UK Government guidance confirms that the UK will continue to keep in line with the Tobacco and Related Products Regulations on the information to be provided about e-cigarette products and refill containers.
The right strength of nicotine will be determined by the level of existing nicotine use, the type of device used and one's preference.
Some MTL devices are typically used with smokeable e-liquids, which are not good for high-powered DTL devices. The DTL setups are usually not of high nicotine content because it can produce significantly more vapour per hit.
Therefore, don't jump to the conclusion that an e-liquid level that is good for an MTL pod is going to be good for a DTL vape kit.
Please read the product information and always use the recommended nicotine range as recommended by the manufacturer.
Nicotine Salts vs Freebase E-Liquid for MTL and DTL
Another frequently asked question is on the topic of which one is better: nicotine salts or freebase e-liquid.
Nicotine salt e-liquids are commonly found with pod-style MTL devices and freebase e-liquids come in a wide array of formulations and can be used with a variety of device styles depending on their nicotine strength and PG/VG ratio.
It's just important to note that the e-liquid needs to be compatible with the vape kit and the coil.
For instance, the MTL pod with a high resistant coil might need to be filled with a different type of e-liquid than the high powered DTL.
Instead of deciding to use an e-liquid with just nicotine salts or just freebase nicotine, look at the full specifications of the product.
Can You Use the Same E-Liquid for MTL and DTL?
Sometimes, but it depends on the e-liquid, device and coil.
Sometimes a balanced e-liquid can work on multiple devices – but other times you will need to run an e-liquid that has been designed for one type of setup and it will not work on another.
Some of the very high-VG e-liquids can be inappropriate for a small MTL pod which is made for thin e-liquids. Likewise, a high strength nicotine e-liquid for a low power MTL smoker won't work for a high power DTL smoker.
Never use the device according to the manufacturer's recommendation if there is any doubt about the product or it is not right for you.
MTL or DTL: Which Should You Choose?
If you are not sure whether MTL or DTL is the fit for you, you should think about what sort of draw you're in favor of.
Choose MTL if you prefer:
- A more limited breath that can be inhaled.
- A way of vaping that uses the mouth for the initial inhalation.
- Pod vape kits are compact and user-friendly.
- Lower-powered devices
- An even more regulated draw
- MTL e-liquids are typically made as a formula for MTL devices.
Consider DTL if you prefer:
- A more open inhale
- Direct-to-lung vaping
- Larger vapour production
- Adjustable airflow
- Higher-powered vape kits
- E-liquids for use on appropriate higher powered devices.
There is no one winner. The choice between MTL vs DTL vaping depends largely on personal preferences and compatibility with the devices.
What About RDL Vaping?
Another term that you might hear is RDL (Restricted Direct To Lung).
RDL is in the middle of MTL vaping and open DTL vaping. It is an open drawer, but not as open as a standard DTL.
Other newer pod vape kits allow for adjustability, allowing the vape user to switch between tighter MTL draw and looser RDL.
When neither MTL or DTL is the perfect option, an adjustable pod system could be helpful.
Understanding UK Vape Regulations
When buying e-cigarettes and/or e-liquids in the UK, you should buy from reputable retailers and ensure that the products are for sale in the UK and meet the relevant regulations.
The UK's regulatory regime has mandates on e-cigarettes and e-cigarette containers, such as due-diligence and product notification.
Changes have also been made to vaping taxes in the UK. The current guidance from HMRC says that the Vaping Products Duty will cover all vaping liquid, including liquid in the device, liquid in the pods, liquid in the refills and shortfills.
Consumers are advised to refer to latest product details and official government guidance if applicable as the UK vaping market is continuously changing.
MTL vs DTL: The Final Verdict
So, what type of vaping style will you use?
For those who dislike the looser draw of conventional vaping, and prefer a more compact vape kit or pod, MTL vaping might be a better choice. DTL vaping might feel more attractive if you prefer an open inhale, a modifiable airflow and a more powerful set up.
Your e-compatible liquid needs to be compatible with the device you have selected. Keep in mind the PG/VG ratio, the strength of the nicotine, the coil resistance and the manufacturer's recommendations when choosing.
For UK customers, VapePlay has a selection of vape kits, e-liquids, pod systems and vaping products to cater to different preferences. However, if you're seeking an MTL pod kit, a refillable vape kit, or a higher power setup, knowing how your device and e-liquid interact could assist you in making a smart decision.
Caution: Vaping products are for legal (adult) use only. Nicotine is a drug that is addictive. Always use the product in accordance with the instructions and UK regulations.
