English
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SpanishIf you’re new to vaping, you’ve probably run into terms like Mouth-to-Lung (MTL), Direct-Lung (DL or DTL), and Sub-Ohm—and wondered what they actually mean. These labels are often used to describe different styles of vaping and the devices or tanks that support them. While experienced vapers find these terms helpful, they can be confusing for beginners.
To help you make sense of it all, this guide will:
Explain the differences between Mouth-to-Lung and Direct-Lung inhaling
Help you decide which inhaling technique and equipment best suits your needs
Clarify which devices and e-liquids work best for each style
If you run into other unfamiliar words, don’t forget to check out our vaping glossary!
What is Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) Inhaling?
Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) refers to a style of inhaling where you first draw vapor into your mouth, hold it there briefly, and then inhale it into your lungs. The sensation is similar to smoking a traditional cigarette, offering a tighter, more restricted draw.
Why choose MTL?
The draw feels familiar to ex-smokers
It provides a stronger throat hit, thanks to the combination of a tighter airflow, higher-PG e-liquids, and the inhaling technique
You’ll use less e-liquid and make less vapor, which is ideal for discreet vaping or when you want a more “cigarette-like” experience
What is Direct-Lung (DL) Inhaling?
Direct-Lung (DL or DTL) inhaling is when you breathe the vapor straight into your lungs in one smooth, deep inhale—almost as if you were taking a deep breath of fresh air. With DL vaping, devices are built with higher airflow, which cools the vapor and allows for bigger clouds.
Why choose DL?
You get massive clouds of vapor and a more intense vape experience
DL vaping is airier, with less throat hit but much more vapor production
It’s favored by vapers who want to enjoy bold flavors and chase clouds
Note: DL is sometimes called “Straight-to-Lung.”
Is There an In-Between Style?
Yes! The vaping community has adopted a term for the middle ground: Restricted Direct-Lung (RDL). RDL sits between MTL and DL—still providing a relatively airy vape but with less airflow than full DL. The result? Flavor intensity similar to DL with a throat hit closer to MTL.
Which Inhaling Technique Is Right for You?
For Beginners:
Most people starting out with vaping prefer MTL. It’s gentler, delivers nicotine efficiently, and feels more like smoking a cigarette. DL, on the other hand, can be intense for newcomers and may even cause coughing.
For Flavor Chasers:
Many vapers find that MTL brings out more flavor because:
There’s less air mixed with the vapor, so flavors can feel stronger
PG (propylene glycol) carries flavor more effectively than VG (vegetable glycerin)
Vapor stays in the mouth longer, letting your taste buds do their work
That said, DL vapers can experience more concentrated flavor since they’re inhaling a larger volume of vapor at once.
For Clouds & Intensity:
If blowing large, billowy clouds is your goal—or you want the most intense vape—DL is the way to go.
How to MTL and DL Vape
How to MTL Vape:
Make sure your device has restricted airflow (tight draw)
Take a slow, steady drag into your mouth (longer than a cigarette puff)
Hold the vapor in your mouth briefly, then inhale into your lungs and exhale
How to DL Vape:
Open your device’s airflow to the maximum for an airy draw
Inhale smoothly and directly into your lungs, just as if you were taking a deep breath
E-Liquid Choices for Each Style
MTL Vaping:
Use e-liquids high in PG (50:50 VG:PG ratios are popular)
Higher PG enhances throat hit and works better with low-power, high-resistance coils
Nicotine salts are also suitable, providing a smooth throat hit and quick nicotine satisfaction—ideal for new vapers
DL Vaping:
Use high VG e-liquids (usually 70:30 or 80:20 VG:PG)
VG creates bigger, smoother clouds without harshness
Nicotine strength should be low, often around 0.3%–0.6% (sometimes even 0%)
Always adjust nicotine downwards as you’ll be inhaling much more vapor per puff
Tip:
When transitioning from MTL to DL, lower your nicotine strength to avoid overwhelming your system due to higher vapor volume.
Understanding Coils
Coils are at the heart of your vape tank—they heat the e-liquid and turn it into vapor. They’re measured in ohms (Ω), indicating resistance.
Higher Resistance (>1Ω): Less power, less vapor—best for MTL
Lower Resistance (<1Ω): More power, more vapor—best for DL
MTL Coils:
Traditionally, MTL coils have resistances above 1Ω, but today you’ll also find some sub-ohm coils specially engineered for MTL, often labeled as such.
DL Coils:
Look for coils under 1Ω, sometimes as low as 0.1Ω. Modern DL coils often use mesh or 3D mesh for increased surface area and vapor production.
Recommended Hardware for MTL Vaping
MTL tanks often use higher-resistance coils and need less power
Popular MTL tanks: Innokin Zlide (with a wide selection of compatible Z coils for different styles)
Battery/mods: Devices like the Innokin Endura keep it simple with just a few power settings
Starter Kits: Prefilled pod devices (like LUCKEE NEXUS pod system , Lost Mary, IVG) are easy to use and offer rich, concentrated flavors
Cigalikes: For those wanting a familiar “cigarette-like” look and feel, devices like the Halo Cigalike Bundle are ideal
Need a strong hit? Try the ROCKME R-POD with its pre-filled pods that combine nicotine salts and freebase e-liquid for a quick, powerful nicotine delivery.
Pod Mods: Increasingly, pod mods are supporting both MTL and DL. ROCKME DIAMOND is a leading choice for flexible MTL vaping.
In Summary
MTL is usually the best starting point for new vapers, those seeking a strong throat hit, or anyone wanting a cigarette-like draw and discreet vapor.
DL suits vapers who love intense flavor and big clouds, with a more open, airy inhale.
Hardware and e-liquids are designed to complement these styles—choosing the right combo will maximize your enjoyment and satisfaction.
Don’t forget, there are options in between (RDL) if you want a mix of the two experiences!
If you’re still feeling lost or overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations, or check out our vaping glossary for more clarity on all the terms you encounter.
