The Guide to Vaping Styles: Understanding the Different Ways Adults Vape in the UK

Vaping continues to evolve as one of the most common alternatives used by adults who want a method that differs from traditional smoking. What many new vapers do not realise is that vaping is not a single fixed technique. Different inhaling methods, airflow settings, coil types, Prefilled Pod Kit designs, and device formats create unique experiences that vary from person to person. Some adults prefer tight draws that feel similar to cigarettes, often delivered through compact Preffiled Pod systems. Others enjoy looser airflow with warm vapour and strong flavour.

This guide explains the major vaping styles used in the United Kingdom with clear and neutral information. No recommendations are provided. The purpose is to help adults understand how each style works, including how E-liquide composition and Nic Salt formulations influence throat feel, vapour production, and nicotine delivery, so they can identify what aligns with their comfort level.

Why Vaping Styles Matter

Two people can use the same device and still vape very differently. The way someone inhales determines how the device performs and how it feels during use. Each style has specific characteristics related to:

• Airflow
• Vapour density
• Coil resistance
• Nicotine strength
• Inhale speed
• Heat
• Flavour intensity
• Personal routine

Understanding these factors helps adults choose a method that supports their own preferences.

Mouth to Lung Vaping

Mouth to Lung, often called MTL, is the style that feels closest to traditional smoking. Vapour is first drawn into the mouth and then inhaled into the lungs. The inhale is tight and controlled. Vapour is thin and modest. This style appeals to many new vapers who want something familiar.

How MTL Works

Devices designed for MTL usually use higher resistance coils which require modest power. The airflow is intentionally tight. Vapour is cooler and less dense. The throat hit is more defined which many former smokers recognise.

Who Prefers MTL

• Adults who previously smoked
• Individuals who want discreet vapour
• Users who prefer smaller portable devices
• Those who want a familiar inhale

Nicotine Strengths Commonly Used in MTL

Many adults choose six milligrams, ten milligrams, eighteen milligrams or twenty milligrams depending on their own comfort level.

Advantages of MTL

• Lower liquid consumption
• Longer battery life
• Subtle vapour
• Familiar inhale pattern

Possible Drawbacks of MTL

• Less vapour production
• Weaker flavour compared with open airflow designs
• Some users find the draw too tight

MTL remains a popular choice for adults who want simplicity and familiarity.

Direct to Lung Vaping

Direct to Lung, often known as DTL, involves inhaling vapour straight into the lungs with one breath. The airflow is open. Vapour is dense and warm. Flavour is often more pronounced at this style.

How DTL Works

DTL devices use low resistance coils and higher power levels. The open airflow allows large amounts of vapour to enter the lungs. This style creates strong cloud production and vibrant flavour.

Who Prefers DTL

• Adults who want intense flavour
• Users familiar with vaping
• Individuals who enjoy warm vapour
• Enthusiasts who want custom settings

Nicotine Strengths Commonly Used in DTL

• Zero milligrams to six milligrams
• Higher strengths feel harsh due to the volume of vapour

Advantages of DTL

• Thick vapour
• Strong flavour
• Smooth inhale due to open airflow

Possible Drawbacks of DTL

• Rapid liquid consumption
• Coils may need replacement more often
• Not suitable for subtle use

DTL appeals to adults who enjoy deeper customisation and dense vapour.

Restricted Direct Lung Vaping

Restricted Direct Lung, sometimes called RDL, blends the experience of MTL and DTL. The inhale is not as tight as MTL but not as free as full DTL. It gives a balanced feel that many adults find comfortable.

How RDL Works

Coils usually fall between mid resistance levels. Airflow is partially open. Vapour is moderate and flavour is clear without being overwhelming.

Who Prefers RDL

• Adults moving from MTL toward DTL
• Users wanting strong flavour without heavy clouds
• People seeking a middle ground

Nicotine Strengths Commonly Used in RDL

Three milligrams to ten milligrams depending on airflow and throat hit preference

Advantages of RDL

• Balanced vapour
• Moderate flavour strength
• Suitable for many compact pod mod devices

Possible Drawbacks of RDL

• May feel neither tight enough nor open enough for some users
• Settings sometimes require adjustment to feel right

RDL is a flexible style that suits many individuals who want something between the two extremes.

Temperature Control Vaping

Temperature Control, known as TC, is a technical style used by people who want their device to limit the heat produced by the coil. This prevents burnt tastes and keeps flavour more consistent.

How TC Works

Devices must support TC modes. Coils must be made from materials such as stainless steel or nickel. The device monitors the temperature and adjusts power automatically. Vapour stays steady even if the liquid level changes.

Who Prefers TC

• Experienced users
• People who want smooth flavour
• Adults who want to avoid burnt or dry hits

Advantages of TC

• Stable flavour
• Less chance of overheating
• Coils may last longer

Possible Drawbacks of TC

• Requires compatible coils
• More learning and setup
• Not offered in all devices

TC suits adults who want precise and controlled performance.

Stealth Vaping

Stealth vaping means reducing vapour visibility and aroma. Adults use this technique when they want subtle puffs.

How Stealth Vaping Works

Small pod devices are commonly used. Short inhales and minimal power keep vapour output low. Airflow is often partially closed.

Who Prefers Stealth Vaping

• Adults who want privacy
• Individuals in shared indoor spaces
• People who prefer subtle sessions

Advantages of Stealth Vaping

• Very little vapour
• Easy to carry devices
• Quiet operation

Possible Drawbacks

• Lower flavour strength
• Reduced throat hit
• Limited airflow options

Stealth vaping prioritises subtlety rather than performance.

Cloud Chasing Style

Cloud chasing is a hobbyist style focused on producing very dense and large vapour clouds. It is often seen in competitions or online demonstrations.

How Cloud Chasing Works

• High powered devices
•  Specialised coils with very low resistance
• Wide open airflow
• Custom wicking materials

Who Prefers This Style

• Enthusiasts who enjoy building coils
• Adults who treat vaping as a technical hobby
• People who focus on cloud size and density

Advantages

• Extremely thick vapour
• Strong flavour
• Creative control over builds

Possible Drawbacks

• Very rapid liquid use
• Requires technical knowledge
• Not suitable for beginners
• Not ideal for indoor subtle use

Cloud chasing is an advanced style that requires an understanding of battery safety and device mechanics.

Choosing a Vaping Style

The suitable vaping style depends on the following factors:

• Nicotine preference
• Airflow comfort
• Flavour strength
• Vapour temperature
• Portability needs
• Experience level
• Daily routine

Many adults begin with MTL because it mirrors cigarette inhaling. Over time some move toward RDL or DTL once they become familiar with vaping. Others prefer to remain with MTL due to its simplicity and modest vapour output.

How Vaping Styles Have Evolved

When early electronic cigarettes entered the market, most devices were limited to MTL only. As technology improved, adjustable power, airflow options and coil materials created new ways to vape. Mesh coils made the flavour clearer. Pod mods provided hybrid performance. Smart chipsets allowed consistent temperature levels.

These developments led to a variety of inhaling methods. Adults can now choose between tight cigarette-like pulls, balanced inhales or open airy draws. Each style exists because different people have different comfort zones.

Safety Considerations

Whichever style an adult prefers, certain safety points are widely recommended:

• Use regulated devices
•  Follow all manufacturer instructions
• Keep devices clean
• Replace coils when necessary
• Store liquids safely away from children and pets
• Avoid modifying batteries or coils beyond specifications

Each style produces different heat levels and vapour density yet general safety guidelines remain the same.

Final Thoughts

Vaping offers several inhaling styles that suit different preferences. Mouth to Lung, Restricted Direct Lung, Direct to Lung, Temperature Control, Stealth techniques and cloud-focused methods each provide a unique feel. This guide aims to offer clear and neutral information for adults who want to understand how these methods differ. Personal comfort, routine and previous habits determine which style feels right for each individual.