Choosing the right nicotine strength can make all the difference when it comes to your vaping experience — especially if you’re switching from smoking or looking for a smoother alternative.
If you’re navigating the world of nicotine salts and wondering whether 10mg or 20mg is right for you, you’re in the right place. This guide will break it down and help you discover what works best — all within the EU’s Tobacco Products Directive (TPD) regulations.
What Are Nicotine Salts and Why Do They Matter?
Let’s start with the basics. Nicotine salts are a form of nicotine that’s chemically modified to create a smoother, faster-absorbing experience compared to traditional freebase nicotine.
They’re especially useful if you:
- Are transitioning from smoking and need quick, satisfying nicotine hits
- Prefer compact, low-wattage pod systems
- Want less throat irritation even at higher strengths
At Pod Salt, our nicotine salt e-liquids are designed with both performance and flavour in mind — always smooth, always satisfying.
Nicotine Strength Limits in the EU: Know Your Options
Under the EU’s TPD regulations, the maximum legal nicotine strength for e-liquids is 20mg/ml. This applies across all EU member states and ensures a consistent level of safety and control.
Here’s a simple breakdown of the most common strengths you’ll find in nicotine salts across Europe:
| Strength | Ideal For |
| 5–10mg/ml | Light smokers or social vapers |
| 11–15mg/ml | Moderate smokers or daily users |
| 16–20mg/ml | Heavy smokers or those needing a stronger hit |
How to Choose the Right Strength for You
Finding your ideal strength isn’t about guesswork — it’s about understanding your needs and your routine.
Switching from Cigarettes?
If you’re quitting smoking and used to have 15–20 cigarettes a day, starting with a 20mg nic salt may give you the closest sensation to smoking.
More of a Casual Smoker?
If you were smoking fewer than 10 cigarettes per day, or just vape occasionally, you might prefer a 10mg strength — enough to satisfy without being overpowering.
Are You Vaping All Day or Occasionally?
- Frequent vapers may benefit from lower strengths to avoid overconsumption
- Occasional users might prefer higher strengths for quicker satisfaction in fewer puffs
Device Compatibility: Why It Matters
Nicotine salts are designed for low-powered, mouth-to-lung (MTL) devices — think compact pod systems, not large vape mods.
For example, the Pod Salt Pyne Pod 2 in 1 system is designed specifically for high-strength nicotine salts like 20mg. It’s easy to use, discreet, and offers a consistently smooth vape experience.
Trying to use high-nicotine salts with a powerful vape mod can lead to an unpleasant experience — too much nicotine, too quickly.
Adjusting Your Strength: Signs You Need to Switch
It’s normal to experiment a little to find your ideal strength. Here are some clues:
- Too strong? You might feel lightheaded, get a sore throat, or vape less
- Too weak? You may be vaping constantly or still craving cigarettes
Start where you think makes sense, and adjust based on how you feel — it’s a personal journey.
Why Choose Pod Salt Nicotine Salts?
Pod Salt offers TPD-compliant 20mg nicotine salt e-liquids across the EU, crafted for a smooth hit and deep satisfaction — without harshness or inconsistency.
Whether you’re new to vaping or just looking to refine your setup, we have a flavour and strength for every style:
- Core Range – classic flavours, fruity blends, and menthol favourites
- Fusions & Origin – unique, premium flavours with global appeal
- Pyne Pod 2 in 1 – ready-to-use pods with up to 750 puffs each, designed for nicotine salt delivery
Final Thoughts: Balance Is Key
Vaping should feel smooth, satisfying, and enjoyable — and your nicotine strength plays a big role in that. By understanding your preferences, habits, and how nicotine salts work, you’ll be well on your way to finding your perfect match.
With TPD-compliant options and expertly crafted formulations, Pod Salt is here to support your journey with confidence, quality, and choice.