The difference between nicotine salts and freebase e-liquid explained — how they feel, what devices they suit, and which to buy.
The chemistry, briefly
Freebase nicotine is the purified form used in cigarettes and traditional e-liquids. Nicotine salts add benzoic acid, which lowers the pH and makes the nicotine easier to inhale at high strengths.
How they feel different
Freebase at 12mg feels harsher on the throat than a nic salt at 20mg. Nic salts are smoother, so you can use higher nicotine without discomfort — which is why disposables and pods all use salts.
Which device for which type
Sub-ohm tanks (low resistance, high power) use freebase, usually 3mg or 6mg. Pod devices and disposables (higher resistance, lower power) use nic salts, usually 20mg, 35mg or 50mg. Do not mix.
Absorption speed
Nic salts deliver nicotine to the bloodstream faster — closer to a cigarette — which is why they satisfy heavy ex-smokers better.
Which to buy in South Africa
Most SA vapers use nic salts in a pod device. Freebase remains popular among enthusiasts using bigger mods. If you're new to vaping, salts in a pod is the standard starting point.