What is sub-ohm vaping? Discover more and decide if it’s right for you.

An introduction to sub-ohm vaping.

Most atomiser coils have a resistance of between 0.2 ohms and 1.8 ohms. In its most simple form, sub-ohm vaping is using a vaping device where the atomiser coil has a resistance of less than 1.0 ohm. The main reason for this is to create more vapour and flavour. But before you rush off to try sub-ohm vaping, it’s worth noting there’s a bit more to it, and that it isn’t for everyone.

This article will help you better understand what sub-ohm vaping is, or cloud chasing as it’s otherwise known, so you can make an informed decision whether it’s for you.

Now for the science bit – how sub-ohm vaping works.

We could get very technical about how it utilises the principles of Ohm’s and Joule’s laws of electricity, but this blog would get very long, so here it is in a nutshell. If you decrease the resistance (ohms) of a coil, the overall power output (wattage) of the vape device increases. The greater the power and heat, the more vapour, flavour and warmth.

What are the dangers of sub-ohm vaping?

For this, we need to quickly go back to the science side of things. Decreasing resistance increases the amperage the vape device uses to supply the required current. This increases strain on the battery and generates more heat in the coil. Therefore, it’s important never to exceed the battery’s amperage limit, and to clearly follow the guidelines supplied with your sub-ohm device.

The different types of sub-ohm vaping devices.

There are three main ways you can sub-ohm vape, depending on the type of atomiser you use. Some are more labour-intensive than others:

1. Rebuilding Dripping Atomisers (RDAs), also known as Drippers, requires you to drip e-liquid onto the wick after every few puffs.
2. Rebuildable Tank Atomisers (RTAs) are an advanced version of RDAs that don’t need to be drip fed. They’re basically a clearomiser with a built-in coil and offer you a great vaping experience.
3. Sub-ohm tanks make sub-ohm vaping a lot easier. They can be used on most mods that work at 30 watts or higher and have disposable, built-in coils. Nearly the same great vaping experience as an RTA – but with added convenience.

Do you need to use special sub-ohm e-liquids?

A high VG ratio is recommended as e-liquids with 50% PG or more are too thin and burn easily on the wick. Also, high VG e-liquids tend to be lower in nicotine strength (3 or 6 mg/ml). As sub-ohming creates a lot of vapour, the higher strengths of nicotine can be too harsh.

As with standard e-liquids, you can get different levels of quality in sub-ohm liquids too. By selecting one with a well-balanced VG/PG ratio and that uses quality ingredients, you’ll further enhance your sub-ohm vaping experience.

So, is sub-ohm vaping right for me?

It takes a certain level of vaping knowledge, as well as a dedication to enjoy sub-ohm vaping. But if you are interested, there are several high-quality sub-ohm vapes for you to choose from.

If you’re uncertain, it’s best not to risk it. However, that doesn’t mean your search for more vapour and flavour is over. There are powerful vaping devices above one ohm that can deliver exactly what you want. Whatever you decide, please always vape safely.