A Comperison Of MTL Vs DTL Vaping : Which One Is The Best

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Published on December 12, 2023 ,  Updated 14 June 2025

Table Of Content

Finding a perfect vape involves understanding two primary inhalation techniques: 

  • MTL vape meaning: Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) 

  • DTL meaning: Direct-to-Lung (DTL) 

The first one mimics the draw of a cigarette, offering a tighter airflow and a stronger throat hit. While the second one involves inhaling vapour straight to your lungs for bigger clouds, followed by a rich flavour.

Suppose you are a newcomer transitioning from smoking or an experienced vaper trying to understand alternative methods in detail. In that case, this guide will thoroughly assist you in finding the difference between mouth-to-lung and direct-to-lung vaping

Let’s hop into the journey together!

What is MTL Vaping?

What is mtl vaping
Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) vaping is named for the way the vapour is inhaled; the technique involves first drawing the vapour into your mouth, holding it briefly, then inhaling it down into your lungs.

A key characteristic of MTL vaping is the tighter airflow, which concentrates the vapour in the mouth, and a restricted draw. This means you'll experience a certain level of resistance when puffing, just like a cigarette pull.

Who Prefers Mouth-to-Lung Vaping?

Mouth-to-lung vaping is common among people who quit smoking and switch to vaping, referring to the cigarette-like sensation it provides.

What Are MTL Vape Kits?

Mouth-to-lung vape kits are an aiding tool for smokers wanting to quit inhaling cigarettes. These vape devices replicate the smoking experience. These Kits feature higher resistance coils (above 1.0 ohm) and a tighter airflow, typically favoured by vapers chasing a flavour-focused vaping experience.

Find out some of the best MTL vape kits for the next enhanced vaping session below:

  • Vaporesso Xros 3 Mini Pod Kit: This compact and user-friendly pod system offers both MTL and RDL vaping experiences. It possesses a 1000mAh battery (life up to 2 days), 0.6Ω Pod, COREX heating tech, and a morph-mesh structure, and is compatible with the XROS pod series.
  • Aspire Gotek X Vape Pod Kit: This MTL vape kit is known for its ease of use (draw-activated mechanism) and portability. It comes with adjustable airflow, refillable/prefilled 2ml pod, 650mAh battery, 10 colour options, utilises a non-replaceable 0.8 Ohm mesh coil for excellent flavour and works with Gotek Series devices.

Which E Liquids Are Suitable for An MTL Vape?

It is recommended to use e-juices with a higher PG for mouth-to-lung vaping. PG is a thinner liquid that effectively carries the flavour and contributes to a stronger throat hit, which many MTL vapers appreciate. VG is a thicker liquid that produces more vapour and offers a smoother inhale.

Therefore, e-liquids with ratios like 50/50 PG/VG or higher PG content are typically ideal for MTL vaping. These thinner liquids wick more easily through the smaller coils found in mouth-to-lung vape devices, helping to prevent coil clogging.

Additionally, higher nicotine strengths (TPD compliant) are commonly used with MTL vaping to provide a satisfying nicotine hit without the need for large vapour production. You'll find a wide range of flavours available in these suitable PG/VG ratios.

What is the Best Coil Resistance for MTL Vaping?

For Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) vaping, the best coil resistance typically falls above 1.0 ohm (Ω) because high resistance contributes to restricted airflow and a tighter draw, providing rich flavour. Also, such highly resistant coils perform better at lower wattage settings (between 8W and 20), which is helpful for battery life and vape fluid.

Common MTL Coil Resistances and Their Characteristics:

  • 1.2Ω to 1.8Ω: Recommended for beginners owing to the classic MTL experience followed by a tight draw, good flavour, efficient e-liquid and battery usage.
  • 0.8Ω to 1.0Ω: Coils with this resistance offer a slightly warmer vape and a bit more vapour production, maintaining a restricted draw suitable for MTL.

Important Considerations: Ensure your chosen coil resistance is compatible with the specific MTL vape device or tank you intend to use. Consider checking the device’s manufacturer's recommendations for coil resistance compatibility and wattage range, as printed on the coils.

What Are the Benefits of Mouth-to-Lung Vaping?

  • Familiar Transition from Smoking: As discussed earlier, MTL vape offers a draw and inhalation style that gives a cigarette-smoking-like feel. This greatly helps with a smooth and effortless transition.
  • Enhanced Flavour Clarity: MTL style vaping provides a more concentrated flavour experience. The restricted airflow and lower vapour production further allow you to enjoy the complex e-liquid's notes.
  • Satisfying Nicotine Delivery: MTL devices are well-suited to use with higher nicotine strengths (20mg/ml as per TPD), particularly effective for ex-smokers in managing cravings. The throat hit associated with MTL further increases the satisfaction.
  • Discreet Vaping: The lower vapour production of MTL vape setups makes them ideal for inconspicuous vaping in public spaces within the UK premises.
  • Less E-liquid Use: MTL devices consume less e-liquid compared to their DTL counterparts, a significant financial benefit for regular vapers.
  • Extended Battery Life: The lower wattage requirements of MTL devices result in lower power consumption, leading to extended battery life.
  • User-Friendly Devices: MTL starter kits are simple to maintain; therefore, loved mainly by beginners.

What is DTL Vaping?

What is dtl vaping
Direct-to-Lung (DTL) vaping is a style that features inhaling vapour straight into the lungs in one continuous breath, much like deep breathing of fresh air. This technique facilitates the production of larger vapour clouds and gives a different kind of flavour experience.

Who Prefers Direct-to-Lung Vaping?

DTL is often favoured by experienced vapours who love making large, dense clouds without compromising on flavour saturation.

What are DTL Vape Kits?

Direct-to-Lung vape kits are designed for vapers who prefer inhaling vapour directly into their lungs in one continuous breath. These kits typically use lower resistance coils (below 1.0 ohm) and are flexible for higher wattage settings for greater vapour production. DTL vaping often delivers a more intense flavour experience due to the increased vapour volume.

Check out a couple of the best DTL vape kits for classic cloudy vaping:

  • Geekvape Z Max 100 Kit: This kit is known for its build quality and powerful performance. It features a 100W output, a large 2ml tank capacity, and is compatible with Geekvape's Z series coils.
  • Smok Morph 3 Kit: This kit offers a combination of power (5-230W output) and versatility (comes with dual external 18560 batteries. Furthermore, it features plug-and-play coil installation, a replaceable 810 drip tip, and is compatible with Smok's TFV18 Mini tank.

Which E-Liquids are Suitable for DTL Vaping?

For Direct-to-Lung (DTL) vaping, it is recommended to use e-juices with a higher VG (Vegetable Glycerin) to PG (Propylene Glycol) ratio, e.g., 70/30 VG/PG, 80/20 VG/PG or even 100% VG. The reasons include

  • Vapour Production: VG is a thicker liquid and is primarily responsible for producing large, vapour clouds.
  • Wicking: DTL vape kits typically use sub-ohm coils with larger wicking ports to handle the thicker consistency of high VG e-liquids, preventing dry hits.
  • Flavour Delivery: While higher PG is associated with flavour clarity in MTL, high VG e-liquids also deliver rich and flavourful vapour. The larger volume of vapour carries a significant amount of flavour; however, the sensation could be different.

What is the Best Coil Resistance for DTL Vaping?

The ideal coil resistance for a DTL vape is usually below 1.0 ohm (Ω), known as sub-ohm vaping. A common and effective range is 0.15Ω to 0.6Ω. These lower resistances allow 20W+ power output, perfect for creating large vapour clouds favoured by DTL vapers.

Due to the increased vapour production, it's crucial to use low nicotine strengths (3mg or 6mg) for a comfortable experience. Always ensure your device is compatible with sub-ohm coils and prioritises battery safety.

What Are The Benefits of DTL Vaping?

  • Large Vapour Production: DTL vaping is the go-to method for producing thick, substantial clouds of vapour, which seems satisfactory.
  • Intense Flavour Delivery: Direct-to-lung vape delivers an overall saturated flavour experience due to the larger volume of vapour inhaled directly.
  • Less Restricted Draw: DTL vape offers a more open and airy inhale compared to the tighter draw of MTL. Many vapers in the UK find this less restrictive sensation more comfortable and satisfying.
  • Lower Nicotine Strengths: The large vapour production of DTL means lower nicotine strengths (like 3mg or 6mg), appealing to vapers who want to limit their nicotine intake over time.
  • Potential for Warmer Vape: Depending on the coil and wattage used, DTL vaping produces warmer vapours.
  • Advanced Device Options: DTL vaping is often associated with more powerful and customisable devices, appealing to hobbyist vapers, who always enjoy tinkering with settings and coil builds.

To better understand it, just check out the table below. It breaks down the distinctions between MTL and DTL vaping styles!

Aspect

MTL Vaping

DTL Vaping

Inhalation Style

Mouth-to-Lung (similar to smoking a cigarette)

Direct-to-Lung (vapours directly inhaled into lungs)

Airflow

Tight airflow

Open, unrestricted airflow

Nicotine Strength

Higher nicotine strength

Lower nicotine strength

Device Type

Smaller, compact devices

Larger, more powerful devices

Cloud Production

Lower cloud production

More cloud production

Flavour Intensity

Enhanced flavour due to a slower vaporisation rate

Intense flavours with more vapours

E-liquids Compatibility

Nic salts and higher PG ratios

Higher-VG e-liquids

Conclusion

Understanding the differences between MTL and DTL vaping is crucial for selecting the right style that suits your preferences. Whether you seek a tighter draw or more cloud production, each offers unique experiences.

Now, it's time to pick the ideal vape device, all tailored to your vaping needs. For this purpose, browse our online vape shop and choose the right device. If you have any questions or need some guidance, our customer service team is all ears and ready to spill the beans. They would be thrilled to help you!

Moreover, for those exploring options, our ultimate guide to vape kits can help you find devices tailored to both MTL and DTL styles, making your vaping journey more enjoyable and personalised.

Azim Aleem is the Head of Digital Marketing at Alectrofag, with a strong background in the vaping industry. A former smoker, Azim personally understands the life-changing benefits of switching to vaping, a perspective that brings authenticity and depth to his work. He began his career as a vape shop assistant, gaining valuable, hands-on insight into customer needs and industry trends. Today, he combines that practical knowledge with strategic digital expertise to highlight the positive impact of vaping and support others on their journey to quit smoking for good.

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