What are Shortfill E-liquids and Nic Shots?
As a relatively new marketplace, the vaping industry is continuously evolving. Even for more veteran vapers, the dizzying variety of vape flavours, e-liquid starter kits and vape stores can be overwhelming.
Whether you call them e-liquids, vape juices, or e-cig liquids, at E-liquids.com we've got the answers for you! In this guide, we'll be exploring the basics behind shortfill e-liquids and nic shots to answer all of your questions.
What are e-liquids?
In case you’re completely new to the world of vaping liquid vapour and want to know more about what the “e-liquid” part of shortfill eliquid means, let’s give you the run-down.
E-liquids are fluids that are turned into vapour using specialised vaping devices, also known as e-cigarettes. In turn, this liquid vapour is inhaled by the user to replicate the process of smoking—that’s why some e-cigarettes are seen as an alternative to smoking.
Since e-liquids have boomed, we’ve not only seen new e-cig liquid categories like shortfill e-liquids, but also a massive array of vapour juice vape flavours.
What are shortfill e-liquids?
The name of shortfill e-liquids goes some way to explaining what they are, and how their functionality differs from normal vape juices. Rather than filling the e-juice bottle to the top as is the usual practice, instead shortfill e-liquids are typically filled to about 80% capacity.
Most notably, the e-liquid they contain is nicotine free. The extra space is for you to add a nicotine booster or “nic shot” to your container, which is why shortfill e-liquids come nicotine free. That might seem a little confusing, so let’s get into the reasoning behind them.
Why should I buy shortfills?
Why would people choose to buy nicotine free e-liquids, only to add their own nicotine later? Well, it all comes down to legislation. The law in Europe and the UK states that only 10ml bottles of liquid containing nicotine can be sold, but since shortfill e-liquids are nicotine free, these vape liquids can be stocked at any size.
This means that the added nic shot will still be only 10ml, but shortfill e-liquids range from 50ml to 100ml in size, which is a huge volume increase for those looking to buy vaping liquid from a vape store in larger quantities. For vapers, this makes shortfills a much more convenient e-liquid option.
More simply, some vapers just wish to have a greater degree of control over the nicotine content of their e-juice. Vape devices are often sold on their modability, and in this sense, shortfill e-liquids are all part and parcel of a vaper’s hands-on approach.
How to mix shortfill e-liquids and nic shots
All that’s well and good, but how easy is it to actually mix a shortfill e-liquid once you’ve got your e-cig liquid and your nicotine booster? Thankfully, the process of making your own vapour juices is really simple!
To add your nic shot to your shortfill e-liquid, first remove the lid completely, including any inner caps. Then, add your nicotine directly into the e-cig bottle. To ensure you know exactly what concentration of nicotine you have, add either a half or a whole bottle to keep the maths nice and simple! We’ll give you an example below.
Once you’ve put the cap and lid firmly back into place on your e-liquid, shake the vape juice bottle for a few minutes. That way, the nicotine and the e-liquid solution will be well balanced. From then on, it’s as simple as vaping any other e-liquid, with the added bonus of the bigger bottle lasting even longer!
So, if you add an 18mg 10ml nic shot to a 50ml shortfill e-liquid, you’ll be left with an e-liquid that’s 60ml in total with a 3mg nicotine content (per 10ml), or 0.3% concentration. This is going to differ for each e-cigarette liquid bottle you mix, but you should get used to the maths quick enough!
Benefits of Using Shortfill E-Liquids
Shortfill e-liquids offer vapers more than just a larger bottle size – they deliver flexibility, value, and control over your vaping experience. By purchasing a nicotine-free base, you have the freedom to decide exactly how much nicotine you want to add, making them perfect for those who are gradually reducing their nicotine intake or simply prefer a lighter hit. For some, that means enjoying big clouds with minimal nicotine; for others, it’s the convenience of mixing to their ideal strength without having to buy multiple small bottles.
Another major advantage is cost-effectiveness. Buying in larger quantities usually works out cheaper in the long run compared to purchasing the equivalent amount in 10ml bottles. You’ll also be cutting down on plastic waste by reducing the number of small bottles you go through, making shortfills an environmentally friendlier choice.
Shortfills are particularly popular among sub-ohm vapers thanks to their typically higher VG (vegetable glycerin) content, which produces smoother vapour and more intense flavour. They’re also a great way to explore different blends without being restricted by the pre-set nicotine strengths found in standard e-liquids.
Tips for Getting the Best from Your Shortfill
When mixing, always measure your nicotine shots carefully and shake the bottle thoroughly to ensure an even blend. If you have the time, letting your mixture steep for a day or two can enhance the flavour, although many vapers are happy to use it immediately. Storing your e-liquids in a cool, dark place will help preserve both flavour and nicotine quality for longer.
Whether you’re chasing clouds, fine-tuning your nicotine level, or simply want more of your favourite flavour in one go, shortfill e-liquids provide a practical and versatile solution. With the right approach, they can help you create a vape that’s perfectly suited to your taste and style.
