E-cigarettes have established themselves as a popular alternative to traditional smoking. A crucial factor for a satisfactory vaping experience is choosing the right inhalation technique. The two most common methods are “Mouth to Lung” (MTL) and “Direct to Lung” (DTL).Understanding these techniques will help you, Find the right device and e-liquid for your needs.
What is Mouth to Lung? (MTL)?
MTL, also as “Cheek steaming” known, describes a pulling technique, which is very similar to smoking a classic cigarette. The vapor is first drawn into the mouth and only then inhaled into the lungs.
The experience:
- tensile resistance: The pull is tight and restrictive.
- Amount of steam: It will be a moderate one, Discrete amount of steam generated.
- Throat Hit: The “Hit” in the throat is clearly noticeable due to e-liquids with a higher PG content, which many former smokers appreciate.
Who is MTL ideal for??
- Switcher: Perfect for former smokers, because the technology and the feeling are familiar.
- Taste lover: The taste of the liquid is often perceived as more intense.
- Discretion seekers: Ideal for everyone, who want to vape inconspicuously.
Matching hardware and liquids:
- Devices: Pod systems, Beginner sets and classic e-cigarettes with coils above 1,0 Ohm sind optimal. These devices operate at lower performance, which saves the battery.
- E-Liquids: Liquids with a high propylene glycol content are best (PG) or a 50/50 ratio of PG to vegetable glycerin (VG). Nicotine salt liquids are also very popular.
What is Direct to Lung (DTL)?
DTL is an inhalation technique, in which the vapor is inhaled directly into the lungs without stopping in the mouth, similar to a deep breath. This method is often compared to smoking a hookah.
The experience:
- tensile resistance: The train is very open and airy.
- Amount of steam: They'll be big ones, creates dense clouds of steam.
- Throat Hit: The feeling in the throat is significantly gentler due to the high VG content of the liquids.
Who is DTL ideal for??
- Cloud Chaser: For steamers, who enjoy creating massive clouds of vapor.
- Intensity seekers: Offers a more intense and warmer vaping experience.
- Experienced steamers: Often preferred by advanced users.
Matching hardware and liquids:
- Devices: Powerful battery mods with sub-ohm atomizers (Coils unter 1,0 Ohm) are required. These devices require significantly more power and use more battery and liquid.
- E-Liquids: These are thicker liquids with a high VG content (z.B. 70/30 VG/PG) the right choice. Due to the large amount of vapor, a lower nicotine strength should be used (z.B. 0-6 mg) be chosen.
MTL vs. DTL in direct comparison
| Characteristic | Mouth to Lung (MTL) | Direct to Lung (DTL) |
|---|---|---|
| Train technology | First in the mouth, Then in the lungs | Directly into the lungs |
| Feeling | Similar to a cigarette, tight pull | Similar to a shisha, open train |
| Amount of steam | Moderate and discreet | Big and dense |
| Throat Hit | More noticeable | Soft |
| Suitable for | Switcher, Taste lover | Cloud Chaser, experienced steamers |
| Device type | Pod systems, Coils > 1,0 Ohm | Sub-Ohm devices, Coils < 1,0 Ohm |
| Liquid type | High PG share (z.B. 50/50) | High VG share (z.B. 70/30) |
| Nicotine strength | Higher (6-20 mg) | Lower (0-6 mg) |
| consumption | Low battery- & Liquid consumption | High battery- & Liquid consumption |
The choice between MTL and DTL depends entirely on your personal preferences. For beginners and those switching from smoking, MTL is often the gentler way into the world of vaping. However, if you are looking for big clouds and an intense experience, DTL could be the better choice for you. Modern devices often offer an adjustable air supply (Airflow), which makes it possible, try both styles.
By using the right technology, combine the right device and the optimal liquid, ensure you get the best possible and most satisfying vaping experience.
