How much nicotine is there in a vape?

The nicotine content of a vape varies depending on the type of e-liquid used. How much nicotine a vape ultimately contains is determined, for example, by the nicotine strength chosen, the volume of the liquid and how much it is used. In this article we go through common levels and what affects the nicotine content of a vape.
How much nicotine is there in a vape?
E-liquids (also called e-juices) are available in several different nicotine strengths. Common levels are:
- 0 mg/ml – Nicotine-free e-liquid.
- 3 mg/ml – A low nicotine content, often for those who want to reduce their nicotine intake.
- 6 mg/ml – A medium strength level comparable to some milder cigarettes.
- 12 mg/ml – A higher nicotine content that gives a clearer effect.
- 18–20 mg/ml – Highest legal level in many countries for common e-liquids.
How much nicotine you get depends not only on the strength but also on how often and how deeply you inhale. A person who takes frequent and deep puffs will absorb more nicotine than someone who uses a vape more sporadically.
How much nicotine is there in a disposable vape?
Disposable vapes have a pre-filled amount of e-liquid and are usually available in strengths of 10–20 mg/ml, depending on the product. Most disposable vapes use e-liquids with so-called nicotine salt, which allows the nicotine to be absorbed faster and feel milder in the throat compared to traditional e-liquid.
A typical disposable vape can contain 2 ml of e-liquid, which means that a 20 mg/ml nicotine unit contains a total of 40 mg of nicotine. This is about the same amount of nicotine as two to three packs of cigarettes, but how much you actually absorb depends on your own usage pattern and the design of the device.
What affects how much nicotine you get?
There are several factors that determine how much nicotine you get from a vape:
- Nicotine strength – The higher the mg/ml, the more nicotine per puff.
- Type of nicotine – Nicotine salt is absorbed faster than traditional nicotine.
- Puff frequency – The more often you use a vape, the more nicotine you get.
- Unit power – Vapes with higher power can produce more vapour and deliver more nicotine per puff.
- Airflow and temperature – How the airflow and temperature are set also affects how much nicotine is inhaled with each puff.