MTL (Mouth to Lung) – What is it in Vaping?

Definition

MTL (Mouth to Lung) is a vaping style that replicates the draw of a traditional cigarette: vapour is first pulled into the mouth, held briefly, then inhaled into the lungs. This restricted, two-step inhale is achieved with higher-resistance coils (≥ 0.8 Ω), low-to-moderate wattage (8–18 W) and thinner 50/50 or 60/40 e-liquids. MTL tanks and pods deliver concentrated flavour, minimal cloud and a familiar Hit“>throat hit, making them the preferred choice for new Australian vapers and ex-smokers seeking discreet, nicotine-satisfying puffs.

Technical Details

MTL atomisers use narrow-bore drip-tips (4–6 mm ID) and chimney diameters under 8 mm to speed airflow and condense flavour. Coil resistances typically range 0.8–1.8 Ω, powered by 3.2–4.2 V on regulated Mod devices or fixed-voltage pod systems. Wicking ports are smaller to match the lower wattage and prevent flooding with 50/50 PG/VG juice. Airflow adjustment is calibrated in millimetre increments (0.8–2 mm) to fine-tune the tight draw. Some newer MTL coils employ Mesh Coil grids for faster ramp-up and even heating at 12–16 W, while traditional round-wire Kanthal remains common for cooler 8–12 W vaping. Battery demand is modest—an 800–1000 mAh internal cell or single 18650 easily lasts a day of MTL use.

Usage & Tips

  • Prime new coils with 3–5 drops directly on cotton and fill tank; wait 5 min to avoid dry hits.
  • Draw slowly for 3–4 s, pause in mouth, then inhale; avoid hard “sucking” which can flood the coil.
  • Use nicotine salts 20–35 mg or freebase 6–12 mg for satisfying throat hit without harshness.
  • If gurgling occurs, invert tank and flick downward onto tissue to expel excess juice; check o-rings are seated.
  • Keep wattage inside recommended range—exceeding 18 W on 1.2 Ω coils will caramelise sugars and shorten life.
  • Store device upright in hot Australian cars; high temps thin e-liquid and can cause MTL leaks.

History & Context

The first cig-a-like kits imported to Australia circa 2008 were inherently MTL. As cloud-chasing culture grew, manufacturers split designs into MTL and DTL (Direct Lung) categories. Today’s MTL pod systems and AIOs borrow sub-ohm advances—mesh, adjustable airflow, USB-C charging—while preserving the tight draw ex-smokers expect, keeping MTL the dominant segment in Australian vape shops.

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