WARNING: This product contains nicotine.
Nicotine is an addictive chemical.

Jan 16, 2025

Lung (MTL) and Direct to Lung (DTL): What Are the Differences

If you're just getting into vaping, you’ve probably come across the terms MTL (Mouth to Lung) and DTL (Direct to Lung). So, what’s the difference?

 

Overview of MTL & DTL

When it comes to inhalation techniques, MTL and DTL refer to how the vapor travels into the lungs.

MTL (Mouth to Lung) mimics smoking a traditional cigarette. You first inhale the vapor into your mouth, then draw it into your lungs. MTL offers a tighter draw and is often preferred by people who are new to vaping or are switching from smoking.

With DTL, you inhale the vapor directly into your lungs without holding it in your mouth. This method produces bigger clouds of vapor and is popular with cloud chasers or those seeking a more intense vaping experience.

 

Benefits of MTL (Mouth to Lung)

Since MTL mimics the action of smoking, it’s an easier transition for those quitting cigarettes. It feels more natural and less intimidating.

MTL works well with nicotine strengths between 3-12 mg, giving you a stronger hit that can satisfy cravings and mimic the throat hit of smoking.

MTL produces smaller vapor clouds, making it ideal for vaping in public or places where big clouds aren’t welcome.

The tighter draw of MTL enhances flavor, especially when using higher PG e-liquids, giving you sharper and more noticeable flavors.

MTL devices usually use lower wattages, meaning your battery lasts longer and you can vape all day without needing a recharge.

Benefits of DTL (Direct to Lung)

If you enjoy large clouds of vapor, DTL is your go-to. It’s perfect for cloud chasers or anyone who likes the visual aspect of vaping.

With open airflow, DTL offers a smoother, less harsh hit than MTL, which can be gentler on the throat.

While MTL is intense in flavor, DTL lets you experience more subtle and complex flavor profiles thanks to the larger clouds.

DTL is better suited for e-liquids with lower nicotine strengths (0-6 mg), which is great for those who prefer less nicotine and focus more on the overall experience.

DTL setups often let you adjust wattage, airflow, and coil resistance, so you can fine-tune your experience for bigger clouds, smoother hits, or stronger flavors.

 

MTL vs. DTL: Best Nicotine, PG and VG, Coil Resistance, and More

 

Factor MTL (Mouth to Lung) DTL (Direct to Lung)
Nicotine Strength 3 mg to 12 mg for a concentrated throat hit. 0 mg to 6 mg, as large clouds can be overwhelming.
PG:VG Ratio Higher PG (50/50 or 60/40) for smoother throat hit and flavor. Higher VG (70/30 or 80/20) for large clouds and smooth exhale.
Coil Resistance Higher resistance coils (above 1.0 ohm) for a controlled draw. Lower resistance coils (below 1.0 ohm) for more vapor production.
Vape Devices Smaller pod systems or compact tanks. Larger box mods or advanced tanks with high wattage.
Throat Hit Stronger, similar to smoking a cigarette. Smoother, lighter throat hit for a relaxed experience.

Nicotine

MTL: Higher nicotine strengths like 3 mg to 12 mg are commonly used, as the method delivers a more concentrated throat hit, which many find satisfying. MTL's smaller vapor clouds help control nicotine delivery, making it ideal for those who want to ease off cigarettes or prefer a more satisfying throat hit.

DTL: For DTL vapers, lower nicotine strengths (0-6 mg) are recommended. Due to the large clouds of vapor produced with this technique, higher nicotine levels can feel overwhelming.

PG:VG Ratio

MTL: A higher PG ratio (like 50/50 or 60/40) gives a smoother throat hit and delivers flavor more effectively. PG-based e-liquids are also ideal for smaller devices and higher-resistance coils.

DTL: A higher VG ratio (such as 70/30 or 80/20) is more common with DTL because it supports larger vapor clouds and a smoother exhale. VG produces thicker vapor, perfect for cloud chasers and enhancing flavor in bigger clouds.

 

Coil Resistance

MTL vapers usually prefer higher-resistance coils (above 1.0 ohm) for a smoother, more controlled draw. These coils help keep the vapor cooler, providing a more comfortable vaping experience.

DTL vapers use low-resistance coils (below 1.0 ohm) to allow for larger vapor production and handle the increased airflow. Lower resistance coils heat up faster, creating more vapor with each puff.

 

Vape Devices

MTL: Smaller pod systems or compact tanks are commonly used for MTL. These devices have adjustable airflow and are often designed for a more cigarette-like draw.

DTL: Larger box mods or advanced tanks that allow for high wattage and adjustable airflow are preferred for DTL. These devices are built to handle the heavy demands of high VG e-liquids and provide the airflow necessary for large cloud production.

 

Throat Hit

MTL: The throat hit with MTL is stronger, mimicking the feeling of smoking a traditional cigarette. It’s a great option for smokers transitioning to vaping.

DTL: The throat hit is generally smoother, which is more suited for those looking for a relaxed experience without the harshness that higher nicotine levels bring.

 

Final Words

If you're into a smoother, cigarette-like experience with a bit of a throat hit, MTL is your go-to. But if you prefer big clouds and a more chilled-out inhale, DTL will give you just that. Both have their perks – so it’s really about personal preference. Try both and see which one feels right!

 

FAQs

Which is better for beginners: MTL or DTL?

MTL is better for beginners. It feels more like smoking a cigarette, making it easier for people switching from smoking. It also gives a stronger throat hit, which helps curb cravings.

Can I use the same e-liquid for MTL and DTL?

You can, but it’s not the best. For MTL, use e-liquids with higher PG (50/50 or 60/40) for a smoother throat hit. For DTL, go with e-liquids that have more VG (70/30 or 80/20) for bigger clouds and smoother vapor.

Does MTL or DTL provide more flavor?

MTL usually gives stronger flavor because of the tighter airflow and higher PG. DTL makes bigger clouds but can sometimes dilute the flavor because of the higher VG and open airflow.

What is the ideal wattage for MTL vs. DTL?

MTL: Best at lower wattages, around 8 to 15 watts.

DTL: Needs higher wattages, between 30 to 80 watts or more, to produce large clouds.