The Complete Guide to Vaping Styles: MTL, DTL & RDL Explained
Ever picked up a vape kit, taken a puff, and wondered why it felt so… different? It's not just about the flavour or the device; it’s all about the style. Vaping is an art form, and just like a painter chooses their brush, a vape lover chooses their inhalation style. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all world. In fact, choosing the right style is the single most important factor in making the switch from smoking a success.
We believe in empowering you with knowledge. Did you know that in the UK, over 4.4 million adults have used vaping to either cut down or completely stop smoking? (Source: Action on Smoking and Health UK, 2023). This success is often down to finding the perfect match between the user and the device. So, let’s break down the three main vaping styles MTL, DTL, and RDL and help you find your perfect match.
1. MTL (Mouth to Lung): The Classic
What it is: Imagine you're smoking a traditional cigarette. You take a puff, hold the smoke in your mouth, and then inhale it into your lungs. That's exactly what Mouth to Lung (MTL) vaping is. It's a two-step process that feels familiar and comfortable to anyone shifting from smoking.
The science: MTL devices are designed for a tighter draw. They typically use coils with a higher resistance (1.0 ohm or above) and operate at a lower wattage. This combination produces less vapor, a more concentrated flavour, and a satisfying "throat hit" that familiar sensation at the back of your throat that mimics a cigarette.
Why it's a game-changer: This is the much preferred style for beginners, and for good reason. It’s discreet, economical, and most importantly, it offers the closest sensation to smoking. This makes the transition feel seamless, which is a huge psychological win.
Data from the Office of National Statistics (ONS) shows that UK smoking rates have fallen to their lowest levels on record (12.9%), and vaping has played a significant role in this decline. A comfortable, familiar experience like MTL vaping is a key part of that story. Who should use it? If you're new to vaping and are looking to quit smoking, MTL is your starting point.
2. DTL (Direct to Lung)
What it is: This is the opposite of MTL. Think of it as taking a deep breath, like you're inhaling straight from a shisha pipe (hookah) or a snorkel. The vapor goes directly from the device into your lungs in one smooth, long draw.
The science: DTL devices are built for power. They use low-resistance, or "sub-ohm," coils (below 1.0 ohm) and run at high wattages. This results in massive vapor production, a smoother inhale with minimal throat hit, and a more intense flavour experience. This is what you see when you watch those incredible "cloud chasing" tricky videos online.
Why it's so popular: Beyond the impressive clouds, DTL vaping delivers a massive burst of flavour and a thicker vapor. It’s the choice for people who love trying tricks with smoke and who prioritize a powerful, airy, and flavourful experience. You'll use more e-liquid and go through your battery faster, but for many, the pay-off is worth it.
Who should use it? If you've been vaping for a while, are comfortable with your device, and are looking for a bigger, bolder experience, DTL is the perfect next step. It's not for a first-timer, as the intensity can be overwhelming.
3. RDL (Restricted Direct to Lung): The Best of Both Worlds
What it is: RDL is the ultimate hybrid. It’s a direct-to-lung inhale, but with a more restricted airflow than a standard DTL setup. Think of it as a tighter, slightly more controlled lung hit.
The science: RDL devices typically sit in the middle ground. They use coils in a range of around 0.5 to 0.8 ohms and are often found in modern pod systems. This style gives you the bigger clouds and rich flavour of a DTL setup, but with a hint of the throat hit you get from an MTL vape. It’s the perfect one for people who are always on a hunt for multiple experiences combined all together..
Why it’s a modern example: RDL is becoming incredibly popular because it offers the best features of both styles without the extremes. It's for MTL vapers who want to explore DTL without jumping into the deep end. It’s also often more efficient than a full DTL setup, saving you e-liquid and battery life.
Who should use it? If you’ve successfully transitioned from smoking with an MTL kit and now want to experiment with bigger clouds and richer flavour, RDL is your perfect upgrade. It’s an intermediate style.
Which Style is Best for Beginners?
The answer is simple: MTL.
While RDL and DTL are fantastic, MTL is the most logical and effective starting point. It gives you a similar feel like the smoking sensation that your body and mind are used to, making the switch less of a shock. Start with a simple, user-friendly MTL pod kit, like those we offer here at Vape at Door UK. You can use e-liquids with higher nicotine strengths, including Nic Salts, which are excellent for managing cravings and provide rapid nicotine absorption.
By now you've already identified your preferred style, lets move on to finding the perfect device providing you with the desired functionality.
The Best Vape Kits for 2025 Providing:
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(MTL Vaping)
They’re super simple to use, pocket-friendly, and perfect for a hassle-free experience with no complicated settings.
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(DTL Vaping)
If you live for dense, massive clouds, you need a powerful device. Our Direct-to-Lung (DTL) sub-ohm kits feature adjustable wattage and airflow, giving you full control to get that satisfying, deep inhale.
Voopoo Drag X2 Pod Vape Kit (switches between MTL and DTL)
Vaporesso XROS 4 Pod Vape Kit (switches between MTL and DTL)
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(RDL Vaping)
Can't decide? Don't! Our hybrid kits and pod mods offer the perf spot between MTL and DTL. With adjustable airflow and versatile coils, our Restricted Direct-to-Lung (RDL) devices give you the perfect balance of intense flavor and impressive vapor.
Oxva Nexlim 40w (also great for MTL)
Don’t settle for a device that doesn’t meet your needs. Your perfect vaping journey starts here. Explore the Vape Kits section at Vape At Door UK and find your perfect match today!
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