Until quite recently, sub-ohm vaping was not very common and was only carried out by experts who understood coil building and Ohm’s Law. However, with the introduction of higher-quality and safer devices, sub-ohm vaping has become more popular.

What is Sub-Ohm Vaping?

Sub-Ohming means to vape with an atomizer that has a resistance level of less than one Ohm (an Ohm is a unit used to measure electrical resistance). This is where the term ‘sub’ comes from because it means ‘below’. On the other hand, vaping at a resistance level of one Ohm or more is consider as ‘above-ohm vaping’.

Many vapers prefer to sub-ohm because it allows them to enjoy big, flavoursome clouds of vapour. An atomizer with a resistance level of below one Ohm uses a much larger wire and wick than a typical high resistance atomizer. It’s the power of the atomizer that allows for these big clouds of vapour.

Although it may sound simple, this process of vaping is actually quite complex and often a controversial topic within the vaping community. There is a myth that when it comes to sub-ohming you have to build your own coils, but this is untrue. Brands such as Innokin & Aspire, for example, produce pre-built coils, perfect for sub-ohming.

Sub-Ohm vs Normal Vaping

Although both involve vaping, sub-ohm vaping is quite different to the normal vaping you see on the streets. The main differences include:

1. Inhaling

Some vapers prefer to not have a deep lung hit and are sometimes referred to as ‘Mouth to Lungers’. However, sub-ohm vapers inhale direct to lung where the vapour is inhaled directly to the lungs. Regular vaping is therefore similar to a drag from a cigarette where you take the vapour into your mouth and hold it briefly before inhaling. However, sub-ohming is inhaling vapour directly into your lungs.

2. Equipment

More specific equipment is required for sub-ohming. This equipment includes larger coils, sub-ohm tanks, mods, spare batteries and e-liquid (high VG). Seems as sub-ohming is done at lower resistance, it also takes more power to heat up the coils.

3. Cost

As you’d expect, sub-ohm vaping is more expensive than regular, mouth to lung vaping. Not only are the coils and tanks more expensive but you consume far more e-liquid. These vapers also burn through far more coils meaning regular replacements are needed.

Advantages of Sub-Ohm Vaping

Big Vapour Clouds

Sub-ohming may be ideal for cloud chasers; those who seek bigger vaping clouds. Because this type of vaping allows you to produce a much more larger volume of vapour, it is ideal for people competing in vaping competitions.

Increased Vapour Flavour

Along with the larger volume of vapour produced, sub-ohming increases the overall flavour produced, delivering more nicotine in every puff.

Warmer Inhale/Drag

For those wanting a warm throat hit similar to that of a regular cigarette, then sub-ohm vaping is a must. The heat generated from the higher wattage means that the vapour delivered is warmer.

Finally, a top tip for sub-ohm vapers include buying your vaping kits, sub-ohm tanks, batteries and coils from a reputable seller. Never try to DIY when it comes to batteries, always read the instructions.