Table of Contents
- Key Takeaways
- The Science Behind Vapor Production In Electronic Cigarettes
- Key Factors Affecting Vapor Production In E-Cigarettes
- Types of Vapor Production Styles
- Health and Safety Considerations - Is Vaping Less Harmful Than Smoking?
- Optimising Your Setup for Desired Vapor Production
- Common Misconceptions About Vapor Production
- The Future of Vapor Production Technology
- Understanding Vapor Production - Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions
- References
Key Takeaways
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Vapor production affects flavour, throat hit, and satisfaction, not just cloud size—finding the right balance matters more than chasing big clouds.
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Device power, airflow, and e-liquid composition all play a role in how much vapor your vape produces.
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Lower vapor setups can still deliver a smooth, enjoyable experience, especially for users focused on discretion and nicotine control rather than clouds.
Vapor production is one of the most discussed aspects of vaping, yet many users don't fully understand what drives those impressive clouds or why some vape devices produce minimal vapor. Whether you're a newcomer curious about those billowing clouds you've seen or an experienced vaper looking to optimise your setup, understanding vapor production fundamentals will transform how you approach vaping. This comprehensive guide breaks down the science, factors, and practical implications of vapor production to help you make informed decisions about your vaping journey.
The Science Behind Vapor Production In Electronic Cigarettes
Vapor production occurs when e-liquid transforms from its liquid state into an aerosol through a process of heating and vaporisation (1). Vaping products include a wide range of devices and e-liquids, each designed to deliver nicotine and flavour in different ways. When you activate your vaping device, the coil heats up rapidly, reaching temperatures between 200-300°C (392-572°F). This heat causes the e-liquid absorbed in the wick to transition from liquid to vapor almost instantaneously. The wicking material is crucial here, as it absorbs e-liquid and maintains proper coil saturation; the type and quality of wicking material can influence vapor production by affecting how well the coil stays saturated and preventing dry hits. Battery performance also plays a role, as it indirectly affects vapor density by ensuring consistent power output to the coil.
The vapor you see consists primarily of propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerin (VG) particles suspended in air, along with nicotine and flavouring compounds. Propylene glycol creates the throat hit and carries flavour effectively, while vegetable glycerin is responsible for the visible vapor clouds due to its thicker consistency and higher vaporisation point. Airflow settings play a crucial role in determining smoke density in vaping devices.
Understanding this process helps explain why different e-liquids and devices produce varying amounts of vapor. The composition of your e-liquid, the temperature your coil reaches, and how efficiently heat transfers to the liquid all play crucial roles in determining vapor density and volume. The amount of vapor produced also depends on device settings and user technique, such as inhalation style and coil resistance. Modern vape devices often feature advanced options like temperature control, which help optimise vapor production by preventing overheating and ensuring consistent vapor quality.
The Role of Temperature and Wattage
Temperature control directly impacts vapor production quality and quantity. Higher wattages generate more heat, which typically results in increased vapor production. Using a higher wattage setting can create denser clouds and quicker coil heating, but it may also risk poor wicking if the coil cannot supply enough e-liquid, potentially leading to dry hits or burnt flavours. However, excessive heat can lead to burnt flavours and harsh vapor, while insufficient heat may produce weak, unsatisfying clouds.
Modern devices often include temperature control features that maintain optimal heating conditions, preventing dry hits while maximising vapor production efficiency. This technology represents a significant advancement in vaping safety and performance optimisation.
Key Factors Affecting Vapor Production In E-Cigarettes
Several interconnected factors determine how much vapor your device produces. Understanding these elements allows you to optimise your setup for your preferred vaping style, whether you prioritise massive clouds or discreet, flavourful vapor.
E-Liquid Composition
The VG/PG ratio in your e-liquid is the primary determinant of vapor production. E-liquids with higher VG content (70% or above) produce significantly more vapor due to VG’s thicker consistency and superior cloud-producing properties. High-VG liquids are ideal for cloud chasing and sub-ohm vaping.
Conversely, higher PG ratios produce less visible vapor but deliver stronger throat hits and more intense flavours. These liquids work well in mouth-to-lung devices and for users who prefer discreet vaping with minimal cloud production.
In addition to VG/PG ratios, the nicotine levels and nicotine strength in your e-liquid can also influence throat hit and overall satisfaction. Some users choose nicotine free e-liquids as a way to reduce dependency and gradually transition away from nicotine.
Coil Resistance and Configuration
Lower resistance coils (sub-ohm, below 1.0 ohm) typically produce more vapor because they allow higher current flow, generating more heat and vaporising larger quantities of e-liquid. These coils are specifically designed for direct-lung vaping and cloud production.
In addition to coil resistance, the wicking material used in coil design plays a crucial role. The type and quality of wicking material can influence vapor production by affecting how well the coil absorbs e-liquid and maintains saturation, which impacts both the amount and consistency of vapor generated.
Higher resistance coils (above 1.0 ohm) produce less vapor but are more efficient with battery life and e-liquid consumption. They’re perfect for mouth-to-lung vaping styles that prioritise flavour and nicotine delivery over vapor volume.
Airflow Design and Settings
Airflow significantly impacts vapor production and quality (2). Increased airflow allows more air to mix with the vapor, creating larger, cooler clouds. More airflow can result in larger clouds, but may reduce vapor density compared to more restricted settings. Wide-open airflow settings are essential for cloud chasing and sub-ohm vaping.
Restricted airflow concentrates the vapor, intensifying flavour but reducing overall cloud size. This setting works well for MTL vaping and situations requiring discretion. Many modern devices feature adjustable airflow controls, allowing users to customise their experience.
Types of Vapor Production Styles
Understanding different vaping styles helps you choose the right setup for your preferences and goals. Many people find that vape pens are popular options when transitioning from smoking cigarettes or other tobacco products, thanks to their ease of use and similarity to traditional smoking. Each style prioritises different aspects of the vaping experience, from flavour intensity to cloud size.
Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) Vaping
MTL vaping mimics traditional cigarette smoking, drawing vapor into your mouth before inhaling into your lungs. This technique produces moderate vapor amounts while maximising flavour intensity and nicotine satisfaction. MTL devices typically use higher resistance coils, tighter airflow, and higher PG e-liquids.
MTL vaping is often recommended for those looking to stop smoking and successfully quit smoking, as it closely mimics the experience of traditional cigarettes and supports smoking cessation. Nicotine vapes are one of the most effective stop smoking aids, according to the largest review of evidence to-date conducted by Cochrane. (3)
This style is ideal for new vapers transitioning from smoking, users seeking discrete vaping options, and those who prioritise flavour over vapor production. MTL vaping also consumes less e-liquid and battery power, making it more economical for daily use.
Direct-to-Lung (DTL) Vaping
DTL vaping involves inhaling vapor directly into your lungs, similar to breathing deeply. This technique requires higher wattages, lower resistance coils, and wide airflow settings. DTL vaping produces significantly more vapor and works best with high-VG e-liquids.
Cloud chasers and experienced vapers often prefer DTL vaping for its impressive vapor production and smooth inhalation experience. However, this style consumes more e-liquid and battery power while typically requiring lower nicotine concentrations.
Health and Safety Considerations - Is Vaping Less Harmful Than Smoking?
While vapor production can be visually impressive, understanding the health implications helps you vape responsibly. Public Health England has stated that e-cigarettes are around 95% less harmful than traditional tobacco cigarettes (4), but responsible use remains important.
Vaping is not completely harmless, and children and non-smokers should never vape. Vaping is less harmful than smoking, but it's still not 100% safe. Both E-Cigarettes and regular cigarettes contain nicotine, which is highly addictive. Young people are at particular risk as vaping can be a first exposure to nicotine; with nicotine known to impact the developing brain, the concern over youth vaping is genuine. (5)
Vaping does not cause popcorn lung, a disease linked to a chemical found in cigarette smoke (diacetyl), and regulated vaping products in the UK do not contain this ingredient. Bronchiolitis obliterans, the proper name for 'popcorn lung', is a rare lung disease associated with diacetyl exposure from popcorn factories, but this chemical is prohibited as an ingredient in UK-regulated vaping products.
Vitamin E acetate has been linked to EVALI (e-cigarette or vaping product use-associated lung injury) cases, especially in black market THC vaping products. Vaping illicit substances has been linked to lung injuries and deaths. E-cigarettes have not received FDA approval as smoking cessation devices in the United States, and all non-tobacco flavours are now banned.
Smoking is a major cause of lung disease and heart disease, and while vaping poses a lower health risk than smoking, it is not risk free. Cigarette smoke contains harmful chemicals such as tar, carbon monoxide, and other toxic substances found in tobacco smoke, many of which are not present in vape aerosol. However, some harmful chemicals may still be present in vaping products, though generally at much lower levels than in cigarettes.
Vapor Composition and Exposure
The vapor you inhale and exhale contains nicotine, flavouring compounds, and the base ingredients PG and VG. While these ingredients are generally recognised as safe for consumption, their long-term inhalation effects continue to be studied.
It’s important to note that vaping exposes users to fewer harmful substances and other chemicals than traditional smoking, but the long-term effects of inhaling these compounds are still being researched.
Choosing reputable brands that use high-quality ingredients and following manufacturer guidelines helps minimise potential risks. SMOKO E-Cigarettes, for instance, maintains strict quality standards and manufactures all products in the UK under controlled conditions.
Considerate Vaping Practices
Large vapor clouds can impact others around you, especially in enclosed spaces. Being mindful of your environment and adjusting your vaping style accordingly demonstrates consideration for non-vapers and helps maintain positive public perception of vaping.
While vaping does not produce 'secondhand smoke' like cigarettes, it is still important to exercise caution when vaping around children and people with respiratory conditions.
Many experienced vapers adjust their settings or switch devices when vaping in public spaces, using lower vapor production setups for discretion while enjoying cloud-producing setups at home or in designated areas.
Optimising Your Setup for Desired Vapor Production
Achieving your ideal vapor production requires balancing multiple factors to match your preferences and circumstances. Whether you want massive clouds or minimal visibility, understanding these optimisation techniques helps you fine-tune your experience.
In the UK, the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) regulates vaping products to ensure they meet strict safety and quality standards.
For Maximum Vapor Production
Cloud chasers should focus on high-VG e-liquids (70-80% VG), sub-ohm coils (0.2-0.5 ohm), high wattage settings (50-200W), and wide-open airflow. Specialised cloud-chasing devices often feature large coil configurations, extensive airflow systems, and powerful batteries to support sustained high-wattage vaping.
Competition cloud chasers sometimes use even more extreme setups with custom coils and specialised e-liquids, but these require advanced knowledge and safety precautions. Most users will find satisfying cloud production with quality sub-ohm devices and appropriate e-liquids.
For Discrete Vapor Production
Users prioritising discretion should choose higher PG e-liquids (50-70% PG), higher resistance coils (1.0+ ohm), lower wattages (10-25W), and restricted airflow settings. Pod systems and MTL devices excel in this category, producing flavourful vapor with minimal visibility.
Some devices feature "stealth" modes that reduce vapor production while maintaining flavour quality. These settings are perfect for office environments, public transportation, or any situation requiring discretion.
Common Misconceptions About Vapor Production
Several myths surround vapor production that can lead to poor device choices or unsafe practices. Understanding these misconceptions helps you make informed decisions based on facts rather than popular beliefs.
Many believe that more vapor always means better performance or satisfaction. In reality, vapor quantity doesn’t directly correlate with flavour quality or nicotine delivery effectiveness. Some of the most satisfying vaping experiences come from devices that produce moderate vapor amounts while excelling in flavour reproduction.
Another common misconception suggests that cloud chasing requires dangerous practices or unregulated devices. Modern regulated devices provide sufficient power for impressive cloud production while maintaining safety features like short-circuit protection, overheat prevention, and automatic shutoffs.
It's also important to recognise that quitting vaping can present challenges similar to quitting smoking, including the potential for withdrawal symptoms due to nicotine dependence. Managing these withdrawal symptoms is a key part of successful cessation strategies.
The Future of Vapor Production Technology
Vaping technology continues evolving rapidly, with manufacturers developing new ways to optimise vapor production while improving safety and efficiency. Industry innovations focus on intelligent temperature control, mesh coil technology, and advanced airflow designs.
Emerging technologies include AI-powered devices that learn user preferences and automatically adjust settings for optimal performance. These developments promise more consistent vapor production while reducing the learning curve for new vapers.
Understanding Vapor Production - Conclusion
Understanding vapor production empowers you to make informed choices about your vaping experience. Whether you prefer impressive clouds or discrete puffs, the key lies in matching your device, e-liquid, and settings to your specific needs and circumstances.
Companies like SMOKO continue advancing vaping technology while maintaining focus on quality and user satisfaction, helping vapers achieve their ideal balance of performance, flavour, and vapor production. In the future, innovations in vaping may further support individuals to successfully quit smoking and reduce reliance on traditional tobacco products.
If you are a smoker looking to quit, then check out the SMOKO E-Cigarette and Vape Starter Kit Deals! Favouring lower power and creating more discreet amounts of vapor compared with some of the larger devices on the market, SMOKO devices have helped thousands of customers wave goodbye to cigarettes - and say 'hello' to the future!
Frequently Asked Questions
Does more vapor mean a stronger vape?
Not necessarily. More vapor doesn’t always equal more nicotine or better satisfaction—it often depends on device power and e-liquid strength.
What affects how much vapor my vape produces?
Vapor production is influenced by your device’s power, airflow, coil resistance, and the VG/PG ratio of your e-liquid.
Is low vapor vaping less satisfying?
No. Many users prefer lower vapor devices for a smoother draw, better nicotine control, and a more discreet experience.
Can I change vapor production on my device?
Yes, but your choice of device will impact the level of customisation. Adjusting airflow, switching coils, or choosing a different e-liquid can significantly change how much vapor your vape produces.
References
(1) Public Health Consequences of E-Cigarettes: E-Cigarette Devices, Uses, and Exposures
(4) Nicotine vaping in England: 2022 evidence update
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Written by Dan Overgage
Dan Overgage is a former smoker of 10 years until he became a client of SMOKO E-Cigarettes. Dan started working with SMOKO 6 years ago after successfully quitting using our e-cigarettes and works across our Customer Service and heads up our content creation and research with a strong focus on all things quitting smoking. During his tenure with SMOKO, Dan has written countless blogs and consults with countless clients every day to help them to stay smoke-free.
Last updated 06/01/2026
