For many vapers, especially those who prefer sub-ohm devices or larger e-liquid capacities, shortfills have become a popular choice. But with so many options on the market—different VG/PG ratios, flavor profiles, and bottle sizes—how do you choose the right shortfill for your specific device?
In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about shortfills, including how they work, what to look for, and how to ensure the best vaping experience for your style and equipment.
What Are Shortfills?
Shortfills are bottles of the nicotine-free e-liquid that are deliberately underfilled allow room for nicotine shot (usually 10ml). The most common configuration is a 60ml bottle filled with 50ml of e-liquid, leaving 10ml of space for adding a nicotine shot. Once added and shaken, the mix provides a ready-to-vape liquid with a nicotine content of around 3mg/ml.
This format became popular in response to TPD (Tobacco Products Directive) regulations, which limit the sale of nicotine-containing e-liquids to 10ml bottles. Shortfills allow vapers to enjoy larger quantities of liquid without breaking any rules.
Why Use Shortfills?
There are several reasons why shortfills are preferred by experienced vapers:
- Cost Efficiency: Buying larger bottles is usually more economical than purchasing multiple 10ml bottles.
- Flavor Variety: Most brands release their premium flavors in shortfill format.
- Customizable Nicotine Strength: You decide how much nicotine to add—or none at all.
- Less Plastic Waste: Fewer bottles means a lower environmental footprint.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Shortfill
- Flavor Profile
From fruity blends and desserts to menthols and tobaccos, shortfills come in every flavor imaginable. The key is to choose a flavor that you can enjoy consistently, especially since you’re buying in larger quantities.
- Fruity flavors: Ideal for light, refreshing all-day vaping.
- Dessert & creamy: Rich, indulgent options for sweet tooth vapers.
- Menthols: Cooling and crisp, often used to refresh the palate.
- Tobacco: Great for those transitioning from smoking.
Experimenting with a few 10ml samples before committing to a shortfill version can save you from disappointment.
- Device Compatibility
Not all shortfills are suitable for all devices. Consider the following:
- Sub-ohm kits: Designed for high VG shortfills, require more power.
- Pod systems/MTL devices: Often struggle with thick high VG liquids and are better suited for 50/50 or thinner ratios.
Using an incompatible shortfill can lead to coil burnout, poor wicking, and reduced flavor. Always check your device manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Nicotine Options
Shortfills themselves contain no nicotine, giving you the flexibility to add it as needed. Here’s how it typically works:
- Adding 1 x 10ml 18mg nicotine shot to 50ml shortfill = 3mg/ml strength
- No nicotine added = 0mg/ml (nicotine-free)
If you need stronger nicotine, some shortfills come in 40ml or 30ml volumes to allow for two nicotine shots. Alternatively, you can use nic salts for a smoother hit, though that changes the throat feel and absorption rate.
- Brand Reputation
Stick to reputable brands that comply with TPD and safety standards. Look for those that:
- Provide lab reports or quality testing information.
- Have good customer reviews.
- Use food-grade ingredients and pharmaceutical-grade nicotine.
You can find a wide variety of shortfills from trusted names in the vaping community at your favorite vape shop online. Many retailers also offer bundle deals or mix-and-match discounts.
How to Mix Shortfills Safely
Adding a nicotine shot to your shortfill is straightforward, but it should be done carefully:
- Remove the cap and nib from your shortfill bottle.
- Open your nicotine shot or pour it into bottle.
- Secure cap tightly or shake the bottle vigorously for 1–2 minutes.
- Let it steep for a few hours to a day for best flavor blending.
Note: Do not vape immediately after mixing. Giving e-liquid some time allows the nicotine or flavor to blend more evenly.
