Shortfill vs 10 ml E-Liquids: Which Is Right for You?
If you’ve been vaping for a while, you’ve probably noticed that e-liquids now come in very different formats. The most common are 10 ml bottles and shortfills (100 ml bottles designed for mixing with nic shots).
But which is right for you? The answer depends on your device, nicotine needs, and vaping habits. In this guide, we’ll break down the differences, compare the pros and cons, and help you make the best decision for your style of vaping.
Key Differences Between Shortfills and 10 ml E-Liquids
| Feature | Shortfills | 10 ml E-Liquids |
|---|---|---|
| Bottle Size | 100 ml bottles, part-filled to leave room for nic shots. | 10 ml bottles (legal max for nicotine). |
| Nicotine | Nicotine-free as sold. Add nic shots for ~1.5–6 mg strength. | Pre-mixed at a full range of strengths (0–20 mg). |
| VG/PG Ratios | High VG (70/30) for sub-ohm, or 50/50 for MTL. | Available in all ratios (30/70, 50/50, 70/30). |
| Cost per ml | Lower – better value in larger bottles. | Higher – especially at higher nicotine strengths. |
| Convenience | Requires mixing with nic shots. | Ready-to-vape instantly. |
| Waste | Fewer bottles = less plastic. | More bottles required for the same volume. |
Why Choose Shortfills?
1. Better Value
Shortfills deliver significant savings:
- 100 ml shortfill + 2 nic shots (~120 ml, 3 mg) = £10–£12.
- Equivalent 12 x 10 ml bottles (3 mg) = £20–£24.
Over a year, heavy vapers can save hundreds of pounds by switching to shortfills.
2. Flexibility
- Control your nicotine: 1 shot = ~1.5 mg, 2 shots = ~3 mg.
- Choose your VG/PG ratio: HVG for big clouds, or 50/50 Bar Salts for MTL pods.
3. Less Waste
- Larger bottles = fewer purchases.
- Reduced plastic waste compared to 10 ml bottles.
Why Choose 10 ml E-Liquids?
1. Higher Nicotine Options
If you need 12 mg, 18 mg, or 20 mg, 10 ml bottles are your only option. Shortfills simply don’t leave enough space for that much nicotine.
2. Maximum Convenience
- Pre-mixed and ready to vape.
- No shaking or measuring required.
- Perfect for beginners or vapers who prefer simplicity.
3. Versatility Across Devices
10 ml e-liquids are made in every ratio, meaning they can be used in all kits—from starter pods to advanced mods.
Cost Comparison Example
Let’s say you vape around 70 ml per week (roughly average for a heavy sub-ohm vaper):
- Shortfills: ~£6 per week (based on £10 for 120 ml).
- 10 ml bottles: ~£7 per week (based on £1 per 10 ml).
Annual saving: ~£50.
Which Format Is Best for You?
| Choose Shortfills if you: | Choose 10 ml E-Liquids if you: |
|---|---|
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Conclusion
Shortfills and 10 ml e-liquids both have their place in the vaping world. If you want value, flexibility, and volume, shortfills are the smarter option. If you prefer simplicity and higher strengths, 10 ml bottles still have the edge.
For most vapers at 3 mg or 6 mg, shortfills are the sweet spot—delivering more flavour, less waste, and significant savings.
Ready to switch? Start with our Shortfill Collection or stock up on 10 ml E-Liquids depending on your needs.
