50/50 E-Liquid
New to Vaping

What is 50/50 E-Liquid? Perfectly Balanced Vape Juice for Everyday Vaping

March 18, 2019

Choosing the right e-liquid can feel overwhelming when you're faced with ratios, percentages, and technical terms. Yet understanding the benefits of 50/50 e-liquid is simpler than you might think—and it could be exactly what your vaping setup needs.

The practise of vaping brings with it its fair share of technical jargon. From ohms to mech mods, Squonkers to RDAs and every RTA and RDTA in between, the long lexicon of vape-specific language can often be daunting, and even off-putting, for a novice vaper.

This specialised language also extends to e-liquids as more and more variations become available to suit different styles of vaping. Gone are the days when all you had to do is decipher whether you need a classic or a sub ohm juice: now there’s an ever-growing list which includes nic saltsnicotine shotspre-filled podsshort fills and 50/50. And true to the nature of vaping, it is very likely that these varying formulations will continue to expand in their numbers and natures as vaping itself evolves over time.

At Vapestore we strive to remove any exclusivity from the practise of vaping, instead believing it should be accessible for everyone as a means of smoking cessation and exploring amazing flavours. We want to take some of the headache out of choosing the perfect e-liquid to suit your personal needs and preferences because, beneath all of the complicated language and baffling abbreviations, it’s really simple once you know the basics.

If you’re familiar with vaping in any way, you may have heard the expression 50/50 used to describe certain e-liquids. 50/50 e-liquid is called so because it contains a 50% Vegetable Glycerine, 50% Propylene Glycol ratio, which allows for an extremely versatile vaping experience.

What makes this ratio particularly appealing is how it bridges the gap between different vaping styles. These liquids can be used in both classic and sub-ohm devices, from basic starter vape kits to sophisticated pod systems. And are designed to replicate a MTL (mouth-to-lung) hit to emulate a cigarette, whilst also being suitable for DL (direct-lung) inhalation. You get satisfying flavour clarity, decent vapour production, and a throat hit that feels natural—all without needing high-powered equipment or specialist knowledge. For many vapers, especially those who have replaced their smoking habit with vaping, mouth-to-lung (MTL) vaping, 50/50 e-liquid can quickly become their everyday choice.

Key Takeaways

  • 50/50 e-liquid contains equal parts PG and VG, offering balanced flavour, throat hit, and vapour production 
  • Works with most pod vape kits, MTL devices, and starter systems 
  • Available in both 10ml bottles and cost-effective shortfill formats 
  • Compatible with both freebase nicotine and nicotine salts 
  • Ideal for vapers who want versatility without compromising on performance 

What Is 50/50 E-Liquid?

At its core, 50/50 e-liquid is exactly what the name suggests: a vape juice mixed with equal parts propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin. This 50% PG / 50% VG ratio creates a medium-viscosity liquid that flows easily through most coils while still producing satisfying vapour.


The balanced composition makes 50/50 genuinely universal. It works in lower-powered devices where thicker liquids might struggle to wick properly, yet it still performs well in slightly more powerful setups. This adaptability explains why 50/50 remains such a popular choice across the UK vaping community.


You'll find 50/50 e-liquids in various nicotine strengths, from 0mg up to 20mg, and in both freebase and nicotine salt formulations. This flexibility allows you to tailor your experience precisely to your needs, whether you're after a strong nicotine hit or prefer something gentler.


Understanding PG and VG: The Two Components 

Before diving deeper into why 50/50 works so well, it helps to understand what propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin actually do in your e-liquid.


Propylene Glycol (PG) is a thin, virtually flavourless liquid that excels at carrying flavour compounds. It's responsible for that satisfying throat hit—the slight catch at the back of your throat that mimics the sensation of smoking a cigarette. Higher PG content means stronger flavour delivery and a more tactile, pronounced throat hit, which many former smokers find reassuring when making replacing cigarettes with vapes.


Vegetable Glycerin (VG) is thicker and slightly sweet, contributing to vapour production. The more VG in your e-liquid, the denser and more voluminous your clouds become. VG also smooths out the throat hit, creating a gentler inhale that some vapers prefer, particularly at higher nicotine strengths.


These two ingredients work together to shape your entire vaping experience. The ratio between them affects everything from how your e-liquid wicks into your coil to how the vapour feels when you inhale.


Because 50/50 liquids contain an equal blend of each substance, they provide an ideal balance between flavour delivery and vapour production, making them a great starting point for novice vapers.


The 50% PG and 50% VG formulation creates a perfect liquid base in which to blend flavouring and nicotine, resulting in a perfect balance of clouds, nicotine hit and flavour.


What Makes 50/50 E-Liquid Different? 

The equal PG/VG split in 50/50 e-liquid creates a middle ground that borrows the best characteristics from both ends of the spectrum. Understanding how it compares to other ratios helps you make informed choices about which e-liquid suits your setup. 


50/50 E-Liquids Compared to High-VG E-Liquids

Compared to High-VG E-Liquids (typically 70% VG or higher), 50/50 blends are noticeably thinner. This matters because high-VG shortfills need powerful sub-ohm devices and sub-ohm coils with large wicking ports to perform properly. Try using thick, high-VG liquid in a basic pod kit and you'll likely experience dry hits or poor flavour as the coil struggles to stay saturated. 


The 50/50 ratio flows more freely, wicking efficiently even in smaller coils with tighter wicking channels. You'll get moderate vapour production—enough to feel satisfying without creating massive clouds. The throat hit is slightly more pronounced than high-VG liquids too, which suits MTL vaping perfectly. 


Flavour delivery tends to be sharper and more defined with 50/50 e-liquids. The higher PG content carries flavour compounds more effectively, so you get clear, well-articulated taste notes rather than the slightly muted profiles that can occur with very high-VG mixes. 


50/50 E-Liquids Compared to High-PG E-Liquids

Compared to High-PG E-Liquids (often called 'classic' e-liquids), 50/50 blends offer better vapour production and a smoother inhale. Some traditional high-PG e-liquids might contain 70% PG or more, creating an intense throat hit that can feel harsh, particularly at higher nicotine strengths. 


The VG component in 50/50 liquids softens this impact while still maintaining that satisfying yet gentle ‘tickle’ in your throat. You get enough vapour to make each puff feel substantial without needing the cloud-chasing capabilities of sub-ohm setups. The slightly thicker consistency also tends to produce less throat irritation during extended vaping sessions. 


This balanced approach makes 50/50 e-liquid remarkably forgiving. It performs consistently across different device types and power levels, rarely causing the wicking issues that can plague either extreme of the PG/VG spectrum. 

Which Vape Kits Work Best with 50/50 E-Liquid?

The beauty of 50/50 e-liquid lies in its remarkable compatibility across device types. While it performs best in certain setups, it's flexible enough to work in nearly any kit that isn't specifically designed for thick, high-VG liquids. 

MTL (mouth-to-lung) devices are where 50/50 truly excels. These kits replicate the tight, cigarette-like draw that many vapers prefer, operating at lower wattages (typically 10-20W) with higher-resistance coils (0.8ohm and above). The balanced viscosity of 50/50 e-liquid wicks efficiently in these coils, delivering clean flavour and satisfying vapour production without overwhelming your palate or creating excessive clouds. 

Pod vape kits handle 50/50 e-liquids like a champ. Whether you're using prefilled pod systems or refillable alternatives, the medium viscosity prevents both flooding and dry hits. The moderate power output of pod systems pairs perfectly with the balanced PG/VG ratio, extracting excellent flavour while maintaining coil longevity. 

Starter vape kits typically ship with MTL-focused coils or pods that work optimally with 50/50 e-liquids. These beginner-friendly devices benefit from e-liquid that doesn't require precise power management or specific coil types—just fill and vape. 

Here are some excellent options that highlight how well different device types handle 50/50 e-liquid:  

  • Vapouresso Xros 5 Mini Pod Vape Kit: Compact 1500mAh device delivering 30W for MTL/RDL vaping. Features COREX 2.0 heating, adjustable airflow, auto-draw activation, and includes 0.6ohm mesh pod. Compatible with full XROS pod range for customization. 
  • OXVA Xlim Go Pod Vape Kit: Portable 1000mAh device with 30W output and adjustable airflow for MTL/RDL vaping. Features side-fill fixed-coil pods in multiple resistances (0.4-1.2ohm). Slim, lightweight design with premium materials. 
  • Lost Vape Ursa Cap Pro Pod Vape Kit: Premium 1200mAh device with  5-35W adjustable output and monochrome display. Features Smart Mode, precision airflow control, built-in dust cap, and compatibility with full Ursa pod range for MTL/RDL vaping. 
  • Aspire Gotek X III Pod Vape Kit: Compact 1200mAh device with three adjustable power levels and built-in airflow slider for MTL/RDL customization. Includes 0.6ohm pod, compatible with full Gotek series. Translucent chassis with improved ergonomics. 
  • Innokin Endura T20S Vape Kit: Beginner-friendly 1500mAh device with fixed 18W output and button-activated firing. Features 2ml Prism T20S tank with 0.8ohm coils optimized for MTL vaping. Simple top-fill design with leakproof construction. 
  • SMOK Arco E1 Pod Vape Kit: Lightweight 1300mAh device (41g) with automatic power adjustment up to 30W. Features smart coil recognition, adjustable airflow, and 2ml refillable pods. Compatible with four pod resistances (0.4-1.1ohm) for MTL/RDL vaping.


Whether you keep it discreet with a classic pen-style kit, go big with a box mod or fit somewhere in between, this e-liquid range is the one for you and can offer unbelievable performance when used with pretty much any style of kit.

50/50 in Different Formats: 10ml Bottles vs Shortfills

Most vapers encounter 50/50 e-liquid in standard 10ml bottles, but 50/50 shortfills offer an increasingly popular alternative that deserves serious consideration. 

Traditional 10ml bottles come pre-mixed with nicotine (up to 20mg strength) and are ready to use immediately. They're convenient, portable, and comply with UK regulations requiring nicotine-containing e-liquids to be sold in containers no larger than 10ml. For many vapers, especially those using prefilled pod systems or who prefer maximum convenience, these smaller bottles work perfectly well. 

50/50 shortfills change the equation significantly. These larger bottles (typically 50ml or 100ml) contain nicotine-free e-liquid mixed at the same 50/50 ratio, with space left in the bottle for adding nicotine shots. This format brings several compelling advantages: 

The cost savings are significant. A 50ml 50/50 shortfill with added nic shots can work out substantially cheaper per millilitre than buying five separate 10ml bottles of the same flavour. For regular vapers, these savings accumulate quickly. 

You gain control over your nicotine strength. Want 3mg? Add one 18mg nic shot to a 50ml shortfill. Prefer 6mg? Add two shots, if space allows (100ml). You can fine-tune your nicotine level precisely or leave the shortfill nicotine-free if you're reducing your intake or simply enjoy the flavour by itself. 

The device compatibility remains identical to regular 50/50 e-liquids. Unlike traditional high-VG shortfills that only work in powerful sub-ohm devices, 50/50 shortfills perform beautifully in MTL starter kits and pod systems. You get shortfill benefits without needing specialist equipment. 

The convenience factor shouldn't be overlooked either. Buying larger bottles means fewer trips to restock and less packaging waste. If you've found a flavour you love, committing to a shortfill bottle makes practical sense. 

Freebase vs Nic Salt 50/50: Which Should You Choose?

Both freebase nicotine and nicotine salt e-liquids are available in 50/50 ratios, but they deliver distinctly different experiences. Understanding these differences helps you select the right option for your vaping style.  

Freebase 50/50 E-liquids

Freebase Nicotine 50/50 e-liquids use traditional nicotine in its pure, unmodified alkaline form. This creates a more pronounced throat hit that intensifies as nicotine strength increases. Many former smokers find this sensation familiar and satisfying, as it closely mimics the feeling of smoking a cigarette. These offer the widest spectrum of nicotine strengths, usually from 3mg all the way up to 18mg. 

The nicotine absorption is slightly slower with freebase, providing a more gradual effect that some vapers prefer for all-day use. Freebase 50/50 e-liquids work well across the full range of nicotine strengths, from 3mg for light users up to 18mg for those needing stronger delivery. 

If you enjoy that classic throat hit and don't mind a bit of ‘tickle’ at higher strengths, freebase nicotine in a 50/50 blend offers excellent performance. It's particularly effective in the 3mg-12mg range, where the throat hit remains satisfying without becoming uncomfortable, and the flavours remain clear. 

Nic Salt 50/50 E-liquids

Nicotine Salt 50/50 e-liquids use nicotine that's been modified with an acid (typically benzoic acid) to lower its pH. This chemical adjustment creates a remarkably smooth inhale, even at higher nicotine concentrations. You can comfortably vape 20mg nic salt with minimal harshness—something that would be almost unbearable with freebase nicotine at the same strength. 

The absorption rate is faster with nic salts, delivering nicotine to your system more quickly and providing almost immediate satisfaction. This makes them particularly effective for managing cravings when you need rapid nicotine relief. 

Nicotine salts truly shine in the 10mg-20mg strength range, where the smooth throat hit allows higher nicotine levels without discomfort. They're ideal for former heavy smokers or anyone who needs strong nicotine delivery but finds high-strength freebase too harsh. 

The choice between freebase and nic salt often comes down to your preferred nicotine strength and throat hit intensity. Lower strengths (3mg-6mg)? Freebase works beautifully. Higher strengths (10mg-20mg) or prefer a gentler inhale? Nicotine salts are probably your best bet. 

Recommended 50/50 E-Liquid Brands 

Vapestore stocks an extensive range of quality 50/50 e-liquids from established UK manufacturers. Here are some brands worth exploring: 

  • Vapouriz 50/50 offers an affordable entry point without compromising on quality. Their straightforward approach focuses on classic flavour profiles executed well, with consistent performance across their range. The brand works particularly well for all-day vaping when you want reliable flavour without complexity. 
  • Double Drip brings a more adventurous edge to 50/50 formulations. Known for bold, well-crafted flavours that push beyond the ordinary, Double Drip e-liquids deliver impressive taste experiences even through smaller MTL coils. Their attention to flavour layering creates uniquely interesting profiles that develop nicely throughout each puff. 
  • Pocket Fuel specialises in fun and flavoursome fruity blends that capture authentic sweetness without becoming cloying. Their balanced approach to flavour development means you get clarity and authenticity rather than artificial sweetness. The range works great for vapers who prefer bright, refreshing profiles. 
  • Vampire Vape has earned enormous renown through consistent quality and iconic flavours. Their extensive catalogue covers everything from classic tobacco blends to contemporary fruit combinations, all formulated to work flawlessly in MTL setups. The brand's longevity speaks to their ability to deliver what vapers actually want. 
  • Bar Juice 5000 captures the bold, popular flavour profiles that vapers love, crafted right here in the UK. Their 20mg nicotine salt formulation delivers quick satisfaction with a remarkably smooth throat hit, even at higher strengths. The 50/50 blend works beautifully in starter kits and pod systems, with standout flavours like Triple Mango and Strawberry Ice offering genuine intensity. Worth exploring through Vapestore's 4 for £10 mix and match offer if you want to sample several profiles without commitment.


The Vapouriz 50/50 E-Liquid Range

We felt it was important to craft our very own line of 50/50 blend e-liquids simply because 50/50 gives you more freedom and we’re all about enhancing your experience here at Vapestore.

Our Vapouriz 50/50 range is composed of various flavours including fruitstobaccosmentholssweets and beverages, so you’re bound to find something to suit your individual tastes.

For a satisfying tobacco, try our Vapouriz 50/50 USA Gold blend featuring the deep, robust taste of classic tobacco with a smooth aftertaste.

Those looking for something a bit more minty will enjoy the sub-zero refreshment of Ice Mint with its invigorating burst of fresh menthol and mint leaves.

Fruit fanatics will find themselves salivating at the many options available in our collection, including Apple & Mixed Berries with its appetising notes of orchard-fresh green apples and lush red berries, and Fruit Salad which is bursting with mixed berries and tangy citrus fruits.

For something just a little bit sweeter, try Rhubarb and Custard: everyone’s favourite childhood treat, packed with distinctive rhubarb and creamy vanilla custard, or Strawberry Liquorice Sherbet featuring the taste of chewy strawberry laces dusted in fizzy rainbow sherbet.

Vapouriz 50/50 E-Liquid Brand-new Flavours

In response to the monumental success of our Vapouriz 50/50 range, we decided to give our customers more of what they really want by adding fourteen sumptuous new flavours to our collection.

You can find the right e-juice flavours and e-liquid types for your e-cig setup for your vaping needs right here at Vapestore.

Shop E-lIquids Today!

Vapouriz 50/50 E-Liquid Brand-new Fruit Flavours

We extended our fruity offerings to include Apple & Blackcurrant, which combines crunchy green apples and tangy blackcurrants on an innovative 50/50 base.

Raspberry & Coconut caters to those who are seeking a fruit blend with a bit of additional tang with its vibrant notes of tart raspberries set against a creamy coconut base.

For a little bit of everything from the fruit bowl, why not give Summer Fruits a try? This colourful concoction is alive with an assortment of ripe mixed fruits, with strawberries, cherries, blackberries and red berries all bustling for your tongue’s attention.

Blackcurrant Squash is sure to delight lovers of fruit and Ribena fanatics everywhere, packed as it is with layer after layer of luscious, ripe blackcurrants for flavour so satisfying, it’s almost thirst-quenching!

Shop the 50/50 range

Vapouriz 50/50 E-Liquid Brand-new Fruit Flavours

Vapouriz 50/50 E-Liquid Brand-new Sweet Flavours

Anyway, that’s enough about fruit – let’s talk cake! Help yourself to an extra slice of the Vapouriz 50/50 Cherry Bakewell: the taste of light, fluffy sponge cake spread with jam, icing and a generous topping of Morello cherries.

Need a coffee accompaniment for your cake? We recommend a rich and robust tank full of Caramel Macchiato or Vanilla Latte for a freshly-ground vape.

For fans of classic cola, the Vapouriz 50/50 range also includes Cola Cooler and Fizzy Cola Bottles. Both of these concoctions offer a spin on traditional cola, with the ultra-cool Cola Cooler boasting ripe black cherry flavours and cooling menthol, and Fizzy Cola Bottles.

Choose the right e-liquid for your specific kit with the help of the ultra-versatile, ultra-flavoursome Vapouriz 50/50 range.

Shop the 50/50 range

Vapouriz 50/50 E-Liquid Brand-new Sweet Flavours

Vapouriz 50/50 E-Liquid Brand-new Menthol Flavours

You can also find a fantastic selection of menthol and liquorice-infused fruit flavours in our new 50/50 collection, each one providing an extra dimension to long-standing favourite flavours like strawberry, blueberry and blackcurrant. If straight up, mountain-fresh menthol is more your thing, then Cool Menthol is sure to hit the spot. This e-juice is crammed with a mind-blowing medley of pure menthol and fresh mint leaves, providing invigorating refreshment when used with most styles of e-cigarette setup. You can vape this awakening e-juice in your classic, sub ohm or all-in-one pod kit for instant invigoration, or add it to your favourite e-liquid for a refreshing menthol exhale.

Shop the 50/50 range

Vapouriz 50/50 E-Liquid Brand-new Menthol Flavours

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Conclusion

The enduring popularity of 50/50 e-liquid makes perfect sense when you consider its practical advantages. This balanced ratio delivers consistent performance across a wide range of devices, requires no special equipment or technical knowledge, and offers both convenience and flexibility depending on whether you choose 10ml bottles or shortfill formats. 

Whether you're just starting your vaping journey or you're a seasoned enthusiast looking for an MTL-friendly alternative to high-VG liquids, 50/50 e-liquid provides a reliable foundation for satisfying everyday vaping. The combination of clear flavour delivery, moderate vapour production, and device compatibility makes it an intelligent choice for anyone prioritising versatility and ease of use. 

Ready to explore 50/50 e-liquids? Browse our complete 50/50 e-liquid collection and discover which brands and flavours suit your setup. Our Customer Services Team is always available to help you choose the right e-liquid for your specific device and preferences. 



Last updated: 29/01/2026. This article is regularly reviewed and updated to provide accurate, up-to-date information.

What is 50/50 e-liquid?

50/50 e-liquid contains equal parts propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerin (VG), creating a balanced vape juice that works across most device types. This ratio delivers clear flavour, moderate vapour production, and a satisfying throat hit, making it particularly well-suited to MTL vaping and pod systems.

Is 50/50 e-liquid better than high VG?

Neither ratio is objectively "better"—they serve different purposes. 50/50 e-liquid works in lower-powered MTL devices and delivers stronger throat hit with clearer flavour. High-VG liquid requires powerful sub-ohm setups but produces larger clouds with smoother inhale. Choose based on your device type and preferred vaping style.

What are 50/50 shortfills and how do they work?

50/50 shortfills are larger bottles (50ml-100ml) of nicotine-free e-liquid mixed at 50/50 ratio, with space for adding nicotine shots. They offer significant cost savings compared to 10ml bottles while maintaining the same device compatibility. Add nic shots to achieve your preferred strength or use nicotine-free.

What vape kits work with 50/50 e-liquid?

50/50 e-liquid performs best in MTL devices including pod vape kits, starter kits, and vape pens. It works with higher-resistance coils (0.8ohm and above) at lower wattages (10-20W). While it can function in some sub-ohm setups, thicker high-VG e-liquid typically performs better in those powerful devices.

Can I use 50/50 e-liquid in a sub-ohm tank?

You can use 50/50 e-liquid in sub-ohm tanks, though it's not optimal. The thinner consistency may leak slightly in tanks designed for thicker liquid, and you won't achieve the same cloud production as high-VG e-liquid. For best sub-ohm performance, stick with 70VG or higher ratios.

What's the difference between freebase and nic salt 50/50?

Freebase nicotine provides stronger throat hit with slower absorption, working well at 3mg-12mg strengths. Nicotine salt offers smoother inhale with faster absorption, performing best at 10mg-20mg. Both use 50/50 PG/VG ratio, but nic salts allow comfortable vaping at higher nicotine levels without harshness.