Mouth to Lung vs Straight to Lung

There are two main styles of vaping, and understanding the difference can help you choose a device and e-liquid that suits you.

Mouth to Lung (MTL)

Mouth to lung vaping involves drawing vapour into your mouth first, then inhaling it into your lungs — similar to how a cigarette is smoked. Devices suited to this style typically have a tighter draw and operate at lower wattages.

Characteristics of MTL vaping:

• Tighter, more restricted draw
• Lower vapour production
• More discreet — less visible vapour
• Generally compatible with higher nicotine strengths
• Suits pod systems and MTL tanks

Straight to Lung (STL / Direct Lung)

Straight to lung vaping involves inhaling vapour directly into the lungs in one breath, without holding it in the mouth first. This style typically uses more powerful devices with greater airflow and produces significantly more vapour.

Characteristics of STL vaping:

• Open, unrestricted draw
• Higher vapour production
• Generally used with lower nicotine strengths due to higher vapour volume
• Suits sub-ohm tanks and high-powered devices

Which Style is Right for You?

The right style comes down to personal preference. Those who prefer a draw that feels more familiar to smoking often find MTL more comfortable. Those who prefer larger vapour production and a more open draw tend to prefer STL.

It is worth noting that nicotine strength should be adjusted based on your vaping style. Higher-powered STL devices produce significantly more vapour per draw, so a lower nicotine concentration is generally more appropriate to avoid discomfort.

A Note on NZ Regulations

All vaping products sold at 2020 Vapes comply with New Zealand's Smokefree Environments and Regulated Products Act and the 2025 regulation updates. Our team at our Whangārei and Dargaville stores can help point you in the right direction when it comes to choosing a device.