When you start exploring E-liquids, you’ll see two main types of nicotine on every shelf: freebase nicotine and Nicotine Salts (Nic Salts). Both deliver nicotine, but they do it in different ways—and that makes a big difference to former smokers. Below, you’ll find a concise, no-nonsense comparison so you can choose the option that suits your goals, device, and desired “feel”.
What is Freebase Nicotine?
Freebase nicotine has been the standard in cigarettes and traditional E-liquids since the 1960s. Chemists treat naturally occurring nicotine with ammonia, converting it to a “free” base that vaporises easily.
| Key traits | Why it matters to new vapers |
| Pronounced throat hit | Mimics the harsh kick of a cigarette draw—ideal if you rely on that sensation. |
| Slower absorption | Takes a little longer to satisfy cravings, so sessions often last longer. |
| Typical strengths: 3 – 12 mg | Lets you step down in small increments as you cut nicotine. |
| Flavour clarity | Complex flavour profiles shine, making each puff taste richer. |
Best paired with: high-powered kits or sub-ohm devices that create dense clouds—great for experienced vapers and flavour chasers.
What are Nicotine Salts?
Nic Salts are a newer formulation that combines freebase nicotine with a weak organic acid (usually benzoic or citric acid). Lowering the pH smooths the inhale and lets you vape higher strengths comfortably.
| Key traits | Why it matters to new vapers |
| Silky-smooth throat feel | Even at 20 mg (UK limit) or up to 50 mg elsewhere, the hit stays gentle. |
| Rapid bloodstream uptake | Nicotine reaches receptors at a speed closer to combustible cigarettes—cravings subside fast. |
| Compact-device friendly | Perfect for low-wattage pod systems such as the Pod Salt Pyne Pod series. |
| Longer shelf life | Slower oxidation keeps your E-liquid tasting fresh for months. |
Best paired with: discreet, draw-activated pod kits—ideal for on-the-go use and for smokers who want a familiar, fuss-free transition.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Characteristic | Nic Salts | Freebase |
| Nicotine delivery speed | Fast | Moderate |
| Throat sensation | Smooth | Pronounced |
| Common strengths | 10 – 20 mg (TPD) / up to 50 mg (non-EU) | 3 – 12 mg (can go higher) |
| Typical device | Low-power pod | High-power mod/sub-ohm |
| Vapour output | Low, discreet | Higher, cloud-focused |
| Flavour expression | Slightly muted at very high strengths | Crisp and layered |
Which One Should You Choose?
| If you… | Lean toward... | Because... |
| Smoke a pack (or more) daily and want a cigarette-like rush without the burn | Nic Salts | They satisfy cravings faster and feel gentler on the throat. |
| Love the throat punch of a strong drag and enjoy experimenting with big clouds | Freebase nicotine | The higher alkalinity delivers that classic “kick” and fuller flavour. |
| Need maximum portability and minimal vapour for work or travel | Nic Salts in a pod kit | Low power + higher strength equals fewer puffs and discreet clouds. |
| Plan to reduce your nicotine gradually | Freebase liquids | Widely available in incremental strengths for an easy step-down approach. |
A Practical Starting Point
-
Begin with a pod system and a 20 mg Nic Salt E-liquid.
Most smokers find the smooth draw and rapid relief closest to the real thing. -
After a few weeks, reassess.
If you miss a sharp throat hit or want bigger clouds, try a 6 mg freebase liquid in a slightly more powerful device. -
Fine-tune from there.
Vaping is personal—mix and match strengths, flavours, and hardware until it feels right for you.
Final Thoughts
The rise of both Nic Salts and freebase nicotine shows how far vaping technology has come in giving adult smokers real alternatives. Understanding these two options arms you with the knowledge to make a confident choice on day one—and adjust as your needs change.
Ready to explore? At Pod Salt, we work tirelessly to deliver a high-quality range of Nicotine Salt products including E-liquids and pod kits, aimed at helping smokers quit cigarettes for good. Discover you path to quitting smoking with Pod Salt where we Hit the Spot every time.
