If you're chasing bigger clouds and bold flavor, sub-ohm vaping might be exactly what you're looking for. Known for its ability to produce dense vapor and enhanced taste, sub-ohm vaping is a popular choice among hobbyists and cloud chasers alike. But what exactly is sub-ohm vaping, how does it work, and what do you need to get started? In this guide, we’ll break it all down so you can vape with confidence, whether you’re upgrading your setup or just getting curious about low-resistance coils.

Sub-ohm vaping refers to using a vape device with a coil that has a resistance of less than 1.0 ohm. The lower the resistance, the more electrical current can pass through the coil, which results in faster heating, more vapor, and intensified flavor.

This style of vaping is ideal for direct-to-lung (DTL) inhaling, where users inhale vapor straight into their lungs instead of holding it in the mouth first. Sub-ohm setups are often preferred by experienced vapers who enjoy dense clouds and strong flavor payoff.

If you're switching from a more basic vape pen or pod system, sub-ohm vaping offers a customizable experience with more airflow, higher wattage settings, and a wide range of compatible e-liquids.

Sub-ohm vaping is all about physics, airflow, and power. When you use a coil with resistance below 1.0 ohm, your device draws more electrical current. This increased power heats the coil faster and to a higher temperature, which vaporizes more e-liquid with each puff.

This process creates large, dense clouds and brings out more flavor from your vape juice. Most sub-ohm devices are paired with adjustable wattage or voltage, so you can fine-tune your experience. Open airflow is another key factor, allowing you to take deeper, fuller inhales for direct-to-lung (DTL) vaping.

The type of vape juice also matters. High-VG (vegetable glycerin) e-liquids are best for sub-ohm setups because VG is thicker and produces more vapor. A typical blend for sub-ohm vaping is 70% VG and 30% PG (propylene glycol), which balances cloud production with flavor intensity.

​Choosing the right vape juice is crucial for an optimal sub-ohm vaping experience. High-VG e-liquids are preferred for their ability to produce dense vapor clouds and deliver enhanced flavor. Additionally, opting for lower nicotine strengths helps maintain a smooth and enjoyable inhale. By selecting e-liquids with a VG/PG ratio of 70/30 or higher and keeping nicotine levels at 6mg or below, you can fully appreciate the benefits of sub-ohm vaping.​

Explore our full vape juice collection to find the perfect match for your sub-ohm vape.

The biggest difference between sub-ohm vaping and regular vaping comes down to coil resistance and how you inhale. Sub-ohm vaping uses coils with a resistance below 1.0 ohm, which allows your device to produce more power, generate more heat, and create thicker vapor. This style is designed for direct-to-lung (DTL) inhales, where you breathe the vapor straight into your lungs, similar to taking a deep breath.

Regular vaping, on the other hand, typically uses coils above 1.0 ohm and is more suited to mouth-to-lung (MTL) inhaling. This mimics the draw of a traditional cigarette and is often preferred by beginners or those using higher nicotine levels.

Sub-ohm setups are best paired with high-VG, low-nicotine e-liquids and powerful vape mods or tanks. Regular setups work well with higher-PG juices, nicotine salts, and compact devices like pod systems. If you're after dense clouds and big flavor, sub-ohm is the way to go. But if you're prioritizing a smaller device or a more cigarette-like feel, traditional vaping might be a better fit.

Sub-ohm vaping involves higher power levels, so it's important to understand a few safety basics before diving in. Most modern vape mods are regulated, meaning they include built-in protections like short-circuit detection and automatic wattage limits. Still, it’s a good idea to understand how your device works and what your coil can handle.

Always check the recommended wattage range for your coil and stay within it to avoid burning out the coil or overheating your device. Using a high-powered mod with a coil that can’t handle it may lead to dry hits or damaged hardware.

Battery safety is also key. Stick with high-quality, name-brand batteries, and never use damaged wraps. If you're using an external battery device, make sure you’re charging with a trusted charger and storing batteries safely when not in use.

Lastly, use e-liquids designed for sub-ohm setups—specifically those with a high VG content and lower nicotine levels. These are not only better for vapor production but also help you avoid the harsh throat hit that can come from high nicotine at high wattages.

Sub-ohm vaping is a great fit for vapers who want dense clouds, strong flavor, and more control over their vape experience. If you enjoy direct-to-lung inhales and like to experiment with wattage, airflow, and e-liquid options, sub-ohm is likely your style. It’s especially popular among hobbyist vapers and those looking for a more immersive, customizable setup.

That said, sub-ohm vaping isn’t for everyone. If you prefer discreet, low-vapor devices or use higher nicotine strengths (like nic salts), a mouth-to-lung setup or pod system may be a better match. Sub-ohm gear is also a bit larger and more powerful, so it’s not always ideal for vapers who prioritize portability.

If you’re ready to explore sub-ohm vaping, VaporFi has everything you need to get started, from high-powered vape mods and sub-ohm tanks to high-VG vape juices.