DTL (Direct to Lung) – What is it in Vaping?

Definition

DTL (Direct to Lung) is a style of inhaling vapour where the user draws the aerosol straight into the lungs in one continuous breath, bypassing the mouth. Unlike traditional cigarette smoking or MTL (Mouth-to-Lung) vaping, DTL vaping relies on wide airflow, low-resistance coils and higher wattage to produce large, dense clouds. The technique is favoured by Australian cloud-chasers and flavour enthusiasts because it maximises e-liquid flavour and visible vapour production. Devices marketed as “sub-ohm” or “cloud kits” are designed specifically for DTL, delivering a cooler, airier sensation that feels closer to a deep breath than a cigarette puff.

Technical Details

DTL atomisers typically use coil resistances below 0.5 Ω (hence “sub-ohm”), paired with power outputs of 40–150 W. Airflow slots are enlarged to 2–8 mm diameter, creating pressure drops of 10–25 Pa for an unrestricted draw. E-liquid ratio is usually 70 % VG or higher to support dense cloud formation without dry hits. Common variations include mesh DTL coils for faster ramp-up, dual-coil or triple-coil builds for increased surface area, and adjustable airflow rings that let users tune between a semi-restricted DTL and an ultra-loose “lung buster.” Tanks such as the SMOK TFV series or rebuildable dripping atomisers (RDAs) with wide-bore drip tips are standard hardware choices.

Usage & Tips

  • Prime new coils with 5–7 drops of liquid and fill the tank; wait 5 minutes before vaping to avoid burnt cotton.
  • Inhale smoothly for 3–5 seconds, keeping airflow fully open; exhale gently to prevent turbulence that can mute flavour.
  • If you experience coughing, reduce wattage by 5 W increments or increase nicotine strength no higher than 3–6 mg—high nic salts are too harsh for DTL.
  • Monitor e-liquid levels; sub-ohm coils drink juice quickly. Carry spare 18650/21700 batteries; high-wattage devices drain cells faster than disposable vape pens.
  • Clean condensation from the 510 connector weekly to maintain conductivity and prevent auto-firing issues common with draw-activation hybrids.

History & Context

DTL vaping emerged around 2012 when Australian hobbyists began rebuilding sub-ohm coils on mech mods to win cloud competitions. Manufacturers responded with regulated 100 W+ devices and low-resistance stock coils, shifting the market from cigarette-like MTL kits to high-performance “cloud chasing” setups seen in vape shops today.

Share the Post: