Freebase vs Nicotine Salts: What’s the Difference and How Do You Choose the Right Strength?

If you’ve ever looked at an e-liquid and wondered what 2mg, 6mg, 12mg, 20mg, 30mg, or 50mg actually means, you’re not alone. One of the most common questions we get is: What’s the difference between freebase nicotine and nicotine salts, and which one should I choose?

The answer depends on how you vape, what device you use, and what kind of experience you’re looking for. This guide will help you understand the basics so you can choose a nicotine strength that feels right for you.

What Do Nicotine Milligrams Mean?

The number on an e-liquid bottle refers to how much nicotine is in the liquid, measured in milligrams per millilitre (mg/ml).

At Pretty Reckless Vape Co., our nicotine strengths are:

2mg – very low nicotine strength

6mg – low nicotine strength

12mg – medium nicotine strength

20mg – high nicotine strength

30mg – very high nicotine strength

50mg – extra-high nicotine strength

A higher number means more nicotine per puff, while a lower number provides a lighter nicotine experience.

What Is Freebase Nicotine?

Freebase nicotine is the traditional form of nicotine that has been used in e-liquids for many years. It works best in sub-ohm devices, vape kits, and larger refillable systems that produce more vapour.

Freebase nicotine strengths we stock:

2mg

6mg

12mg

Best for:

Larger vape devices

Bigger clouds

More noticeable flavour

Longer vaping sessions

If you enjoy flavour and vapour production, freebase is often the better choice.

What Are Nicotine Salts?

Nicotine salts (often called nic salts) are designed to be smoother at higher nicotine strengths. Because of this, they’re commonly used in pod systems and smaller devices.

Nicotine salt strengths we stock:

20mg

30mg

50mg

Best for:

Pod devices

Disposable-style vaping

A stronger nicotine hit

Short, quick puffs throughout the day

Nicotine salts are popular with people who want a higher nicotine strength without the harsh throat hit that freebase nicotine can have at similar levels.

Freebase vs Nicotine Salts

Freebase Nicotine	Nicotine Salts
Best for larger vape kits	Best for pod systems
Available in 2mg, 6mg, and 12mg	Available in 20mg, 30mg, and 50mg
Stronger throat hit	Smoother throat hit
Great for flavour and clouds	Great for stronger nicotine satisfaction
Longer vaping sessions	Short, quick vaping sessions

Which Nicotine Strength Should You Choose?

2mg Freebase

Ideal if you’re looking for a very light nicotine experience and mainly enjoy vaping for flavour and vapour.

6mg Freebase

A great middle-ground option for many regular vapers using refillable vape kits.

12mg Freebase

Suitable if you prefer a stronger nicotine experience while still using a freebase-compatible device.

20mg Nicotine Salt

A common starting point for many pod-system users who want a satisfying nicotine hit with a smooth draw.

30mg Nicotine Salt

A stronger option for experienced nicotine salt users who want a more noticeable nicotine experience.

50mg Nicotine Salt

Best suited for very experienced users who prefer a high nicotine strength in a pod device.

Can You Use Any Nicotine in Any Device?

Not always. Using a 50mg nicotine salt in a powerful sub-ohm device can be far stronger than most people expect. Likewise, using 2mg freebase in a small pod device may not feel satisfying for some users.

A simple rule is:

Pod device → Nicotine salts (20mg, 30mg, or 50mg)

Sub-ohm or larger vape kit → Freebase nicotine (2mg, 6mg, or 12mg)

Final Thoughts

There’s no single “best” nicotine strength—only the one that suits your device, your preferences, and how you vape. If you’re unsure, start with a lower or moderate strength and adjust from there rather than jumping straight to the highest option available.

At Pretty Reckless Vape Co., we stock a carefully selected range of premium e-liquids and pod-friendly nicotine salt options to help you find the right balance of flavour, smoothness, and nicotine strength.

Still not sure which one is right for you? Get in touch with us and we’ll help you choose the best option for your device and vaping style.

Note: Our products are intended for adults aged 18 and over. Nicotine is an addictive substance.