In this guide we’ll outline everything you need to know about MTL, DTL, and RDL vaping.

 The way you vape is one of the first things to establish when you first try to switch from smoking to vaping.

For your quit attempt to be successful, use this guide to help you identify your particular vaping style, and ensure you select the correct vaping equipment.

If you’ve tried vaping before, but weren’t successful, this guide may help you to see if you were using the wrong kit for your vaping style.

MTL vs DTL vs RDL

MTL, DTL, and RDL refer to inhalation methods and are the terms used to describe the three most common vaping styles.

MTL – Mouth-to-Lung

Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) is the vaping style that most closely replicates smoking. Most people switching from smoking will start by MTL vaping as it feels the most natural way for smokers to inhale.

Take a long, smooth, steady draw into the mouth.

Inhale the vapour into the lungs, allowing some air to be drawn in.

Exhale the remaining vapour.

The longer you let the vapour linger in your mouth, the more satisfaction you’ll get from the ‘hit’ and the flavour.

The longer you leave it before you exhale, the less vapour there will be.

MTL coils have a resistance of 0.8Ω or higher. They contain more wicking material for a tighter draw.

The element is commonly made from mesh for a fast and even heat.

Single-use vape bars (disposables) and MTL pod kits have an ergonomic mouthpiece (duckbill), and MTL tanks have a 510 drip tip. The openings are narrow like a cigarette, so a tighter draw can be achieved.

If the device has an adjustable airflow, this should be kept to a minimum.

MTL vape juice contains either 50PG / 50VG or 40PG / 60VG, which delivers a sharper throat hit like cigarette smoking

PG carries flavour better than VG, allowing you to fully taste the vape juice.

New vapers need more nicotine to keep the cravings under control, and stop them going back to smoking.

MTL e-liquids can contain a high nicotine content, up to 20mg (2%). This includes nic salts, which are more popular than freebase nicotine as the throat hit is smoother.

MTL in summary

• Common with transitioning smokers/new vapers
• More discreet as there is less vapour and smell
• Cheap to get started with disposables or more ‘basic’ vape kits
• Ability to vape higher nicotine content/nic salts to control cravings
• MTL tanks use less e-liquid 
• Option if you would struggle to take a direct to lung hit due to smoking related lung damage

DTL – Direct-to-Lung

Direct-to-lung (DTL) is most commonly employed by experienced vapers. For transitioning smokers, it can feel like a strange way to inhale.