High PG vs. High VG CBD Vape Liquids: Which is Best for My Device?

Vaping CBD is a popular way to enjoy its calming effects, but picking the right vape liquid can feel like navigating a maze. You’ve probably seen terms like “PG” and “VG” on e-liquid bottles and wondered what they mean for your vaping experience. These two ingredients—propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerin (VG)—are the backbone of CBD vape liquids, and their ratio can make or break your setup. Whether you’re chasing big clouds, craving bold flavors, or just want a smooth hit, understanding high PG vs. high VG CBD vape liquids is key to finding the best match for your device.

Let’s break it down in a way that makes sense, so you can vape with confidence. We’ll dive into what PG and VG are, how they affect your vape, and which one suits your device best. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to look for the next time you’re shopping for CBD vape juice.

What Are PG and VG, Anyway?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s clear up what PG and VG actually are. Both are safe, food-grade liquids that form the base of CBD vape juice, carrying the CBD and flavorings while creating that satisfying vapor. They’re both odorless and belong to the alcohol chemical class, but they behave differently in your vape.

Propylene glycol (PG) is a thin, runny liquid. It’s great at carrying flavors, so if you love a punchy taste, PG is your friend. It also gives a sharper “throat hit,” that scratchy sensation some vapers enjoy because it mimics the feel of smoking. You’ll find PG in everyday products like toothpaste and asthma inhalers, so it’s well-tested and safe for vaping when used properly.

Vegetable glycerin (VG), on the other hand, is thicker and slightly sweet. It’s derived from vegetable oils and is used in things like cosmetics and food as a thickener. In vaping, VG is the cloud-chaser’s choice—it produces those dense, billowing clouds that linger in the air. It’s smoother on the throat, which is great if you prefer a gentler inhale.

The ratio of PG to VG in your CBD vape liquid—say, 50/50, 70/30, or even 100% VG—changes everything from flavor to vapor production to how well it works with your device. Let’s explore how these differences play out.

How PG and VG Affect Your Vaping Experience

The PG/VG ratio isn’t just a random number on the bottle—it shapes your entire vape session. Think of it like choosing between a light, crisp soda or a thick, creamy milkshake. Each has its perks, but they’re suited to different moments and preferences. Here’s how high PG and high VG CBD vape liquids compare across key factors.

Throat Hit and Smoothness

Ever take a puff and feel a sharp kick at the back of your throat? That’s the throat hit, and it’s a big deal for vapers who used to smoke. High PG liquids deliver a stronger throat hit, which can feel familiar if you’re transitioning from cigarettes. It’s like the satisfying burn of a strong coffee—some love it, others don’t.

High VG liquids, by contrast, are all about smoothness. They glide down your throat with barely a whisper, making them ideal if you find throat hits harsh or irritating. If you’re vaping CBD for relaxation and want a mellow experience, high VG might be your go-to. But if you crave that punchy sensation, high PG is the way to go.

Flavor Intensity

Flavor is a huge part of vaping. Whether you’re into fruity, dessert, or earthy CBD flavors, you want every puff to taste vibrant. PG is the flavor carrier of the two—it’s thinner, so it mixes better with flavorings, giving you a sharper, more pronounced taste. Imagine biting into a fresh strawberry versus a strawberry smoothie; high PG is that crisp, bold bite.

VG, being thicker, can mute flavors slightly. Its subtle sweetness can enhance dessert-like profiles, like custard or vanilla, but it might dull more delicate notes, like citrus or menthol. If flavor is your priority, a high PG or balanced 50/50 blend will keep things lively.

Vapor Production

If you’ve ever seen someone exhale a massive cloud that looks like it could star in a weather forecast, they’re probably using high VG liquid. VG’s thick consistency creates dense, lingering vapor, perfect for cloud chasers who love the visual spectacle. It’s like blowing out steam from a hot shower—impressive and fun.

High PG liquids, being thinner, produce less vapor. The clouds are wispier and dissipate quickly, which is great if you’re vaping discreetly in public. If you’re not into fogging up the room, high PG keeps things low-key.

Consistency and Wicking

The thickness of your vape liquid affects how it flows through your device. PG is thin and wicks quickly, meaning it soaks into your coil’s cotton easily, reducing the chance of dry hits (those nasty, burnt-tasting puffs). VG, being syrupy, takes longer to wick. If your device isn’t built for thick liquids, high VG can lead to clogging or poor performance.

Think of it like pouring water versus honey through a straw. PG flows like water, while VG is more like honey—great for some setups, but tricky for others. This brings us to the heart of the matter: matching your CBD vape liquid to your device.

Choosing the Right CBD Vape Liquid for Your Device

Not all vape devices are created equal, and the wrong PG/VG ratio can turn your vaping experience from blissful to frustrating. Your device’s design—specifically its coil resistance, wattage, and tank type—dictates whether high PG or high VG CBD vape liquid is the best fit. Let’s break it down by device type so you can make the right choice.

Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) Devices and Pod Systems

MTL devices, like pod systems or vape pens, are compact and designed to mimic the draw of a cigarette. You inhale vapor into your mouth first, then into your lungs. These devices typically use coils with higher resistance (above 1 ohm) and lower wattage (under 15 watts). They’re perfect for beginners or anyone who wants a simple, discreet vape.

High PG CBD vape liquids shine here. Their thin consistency flows easily through the small coils and wicks quickly, preventing dry hits. A 50/50 or 60/40 PG/VG ratio is ideal for most MTL devices, offering a balance of flavor, throat hit, and manageable vapor. Some newer MTL coils can handle slightly higher VG (up to 60/40 VG/PG), but check your device’s manual to be sure.

If you’re using a pod system with nicotine salts, you might notice most CBD vape juices for these devices stick to 50/50 ratios. This is because pod systems aren’t built for thick, high VG liquids—they’ll struggle to wick properly, leading to burnt tastes or leaks.

Sub-Ohm Devices and Direct-to-Lung (DTL) Vaping

Sub-ohm devices, like box mods or advanced vape tanks, are the heavyweights of vaping. They use low-resistance coils (below 1 ohm) and high wattage (often 30 watts or more), designed for direct-to-lung vaping, where you inhale vapor straight into your lungs. These setups are built for big clouds and bold flavors.

High VG CBD vape liquids are the go-to for sub-ohm vaping. Ratios like 70/30 VG/PG or even 80/20 VG/PG work best, as their thickness produces those massive clouds sub-ohm vapers love. The powerful coils and larger wicking ports in these devices can handle VG’s viscosity without clogging. Plus, the smoother throat hit of high VG complements the intense vapor production.

However, high VG liquids burn through juice faster and require more power, so make sure your battery and tank are up to the task. If you’re using a sub-ohm setup with high PG liquid, you might get a harsh throat hit or even burn the juice, since PG vaporizes at lower temperatures.

CBD Vape Pens and Disposable Devices

CBD-specific vape pens or disposables are popular for their simplicity—just fill (or use pre-filled) and vape. These devices often have fixed settings and smaller coils, making them closer to MTL setups. Most work best with high PG or 50/50 CBD vape liquids, as their coils aren’t designed for thick VG.

If you’re using a disposable CBD vape, check the product specs. Many brands, like those offering 500–1000 mg CBD strengths, use 50/50 or 60/40 PG/VG blends to ensure smooth performance. High VG in these devices can lead to clogging or weak vapor output, so stick to thinner liquids for the best results.

Other Factors to Consider

Your device isn’t the only thing to think about when choosing between high PG and high VG CBD vape liquids. Your personal preferences and practical needs play a big role too. Here’s what else to keep in mind.

Nicotine Strength and CBD Concentration

Most CBD vape liquids are nicotine-free, but some brands offer blends with nicotine or varying CBD strengths (like 250 mg to 1000 mg per bottle). High PG liquids are better at carrying nicotine and CBD, so they’re often used for higher-strength formulas. If you’re vaping high-potency CBD, a 50/50 or high PG blend might deliver a more consistent dose.

High VG liquids, due to their thickness, can dilute the CBD or nicotine slightly, so you might need a higher wattage to get the same effect. If you’re using a low-power device, stick to high PG for stronger CBD delivery.

Allergies and Sensitivities

While both PG and VG are generally safe, some people are sensitive to PG. Symptoms like a sore throat, dry mouth, or mild irritation can pop up, especially with high PG liquids. If you notice discomfort, try a high VG or 100% VG CBD vape liquid. VG is less likely to cause reactions, and its smoothness can feel soothing.

Both PG and VG can cause dehydration, leading to dry mouth or thirst. Keep a water bottle handy when vaping to stay comfortable. If you’re prone to allergies, check the label for any additional ingredients, like flavorings, that might cause issues.

Maintenance and Cleaning

High VG liquids are thicker, so they’re more likely to gunk up your coils and tank. If you’re not a fan of frequent cleaning, high PG or 50/50 blends are easier to manage—they’re less sticky and wick more cleanly. For high VG users, regular coil changes and tank cleaning are a must to avoid burnt tastes or clogs.

If you’re using a rebuildable atomizer, high VG is less of a hassle, as you can customize your setup to handle thicker liquids. Just be prepared to spend a bit more time on upkeep.

Flavor Preferences

As we mentioned, PG carries flavors better, while VG’s sweetness can enhance certain profiles. If you’re vaping a complex CBD flavor, like a fruity or tobacco blend, high PG will make the notes pop. For creamy or dessert-like CBD juices, high VG can add a rich, velvety texture. Experiment with different ratios to see what brings out your favorite flavors.

Practical Tips for Finding Your Perfect Ratio

Now that you know the ins and outs of high PG vs. high VG CBD vape liquids, how do you choose? Start with your device and work from there. If you’re rocking a pod system or MTL vape, go for a 50/50 or 60/40 PG/VG liquid. Sub-ohm vapers should aim for 70/30 VG/PG or higher. But don’t stop at the specs—think about what you want from your vape.

Ask yourself: Do I want bold flavors or big clouds? Am I sensitive to throat hits, or do I crave them? How much maintenance am I willing to do? If you’re new to vaping, a 50/50 CBD vape liquid is a safe bet—it’s versatile and works with most devices. From there, you can tweak the ratio to suit your style.

Try small bottles of different ratios to test what feels right. Many CBD brands offer sample packs or 10 mL bottles, so you can experiment without committing to a big purchase. Keep an eye on how your device performs—weak vapor, burnt tastes, or leaks are signs the ratio isn’t a good match.

Wrapping It Up

Choosing between high PG and high VG CBD vape liquids comes down to your device, preferences, and vaping goals. High PG liquids are thin, flavor-packed, and perfect for MTL devices or anyone who loves a strong throat hit. High VG liquids deliver smooth, cloudy puffs that shine in sub-ohm setups, ideal for cloud chasers or those seeking a gentler inhale. By matching the PG/VG ratio to your device’s specs and your personal tastes, you’ll get the most out of every CBD vape session.

Don’t be afraid to play around with ratios until you find your sweet spot. Whether you’re unwinding with a fruity CBD blend or chasing clouds with a creamy one, the right vape liquid can make all the difference. Grab a bottle, take a puff, and enjoy the journey to your perfect vape.