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Shortfill e-liquids are nicotine-free e-liquids sold in larger bottles that leave some empty space at the top for adding a nicotine shot (also known as a nicotine booster). This allows adult vapers to customise their preferred nicotine strength while enjoying larger quantities of e-liquid. The most common shortfill bottle sizes are 60ml (containing 50ml of e-liquid) and 120ml (containing 100ml of e-liquid). The unused space is intentionally left to accommodate nicotine shots without requiring an additional bottle.

Shortfills became popular following the introduction of the Tobacco Products Directive (TPD), which limits nicotine-containing e-liquids to a maximum bottle size of 10ml in many European markets. By selling nicotine separately, manufacturers can continue offering larger bottles while remaining compliant with these regulations.

What Are Shortfills?

A shortfill is a large bottle of nicotine-free e-liquid that is intentionally not filled to the top. The empty space is left so you can add a nicotine shot if desired.

For example:

• 50ml of e-liquid in a 60ml bottle

• 100ml of e-liquid in a 120ml bottle

After adding a nicotine shot, simply shake the bottle thoroughly before use.

Shortfills became popular after UK regulations limited the sale of nicotine-containing e-liquids in bottles larger than 10ml. By selling nicotine separately, manufacturers can still offer larger bottles while remaining compliant with regulations.

Benefits of Shortfills

• Ready to vape after adding nicotine (or use nicotine-free)

• Wide range of flavours

• Simple to use

• Suitable for sub-ohm vaping

• Ideal for everyday users

What Are Longfills?

A longfill contains a concentrated flavour inside a larger bottle. Instead of receiving a nearly full bottle of e-liquid, you receive only the flavour concentrate and fill the remaining space yourself using VG, PG, nicotine shots, or a combination of both.

• 20ml flavour concentrate in a 60ml bottle

• Add your preferred VG/PG base

• Add nicotine shots if required

• Shake well before vaping

Longfills offer greater flexibility because you decide the final nicotine strength and VG/PG ratio.

Longfills vs Shortfills: Quick Comparison

Main Differences Between Longfills and Shortfills

1. Mixing Process

Shortfills require very little effort. Simply add a nicotine shot if desired, shake the bottle, and you're ready to vape. Longfills require additional ingredients, including VG, PG, or nicotine shots, making the preparation process more involved.

2. Flavour Customisation

One of the biggest advantages of longfills is complete flexibility.

• Choose your VG/PG ratio

• Adjust nicotine strength

• Create a vaping experience that suits your device

Shortfills come with a fixed VG/PG ratio, so there is less room for personalisation.

3. Cost

Longfills can be more economical over time because you purchase the flavour concentrate and add your own base liquids. Shortfills usually cost slightly more per millilitre since the manufacturer has already prepared the e-liquid. If you're a frequent vaper, longfills may offer better long-term value.

4. Ease of Use

For new vapers, shortfills are much simpler. Longfills involve measuring and mixing ingredients correctly, which may not appeal to everyone. If convenience is your priority, shortfills are the better option.

5. Flavour Strength

Many vapers find that longfills produce a richer flavour because the concentrate is freshly mixed before use. Shortfills also provide excellent flavour, especially from reputable manufacturers, but longfills often allow more control over flavour intensity.

Who Should Choose Shortfills?

Shortfills are an excellent option if you:

• Are new to vaping

• Prefer a quick and simple setup

• Don't want to mix ingredients

• Enjoy sub-ohm vaping

• Want consistent flavour every time

They are perfect for adult vapers who value convenience.

Who Should Choose Longfills?

Longfills are ideal if you:

• Enjoy customising your vape

• Want to choose your VG/PG ratio

• Like experimenting with nicotine strengths

• Vape frequently

• Want better value over time

They suit experienced users who don't mind spending a little extra time preparing their e-liquid.

Pros and Cons

Shortfills

Pros

• Easy to prepare

• Beginner-friendly

• Huge flavour selection

• Consistent quality

• Minimal mixing

Cons

• Less customisation

• Fixed VG/PG ratio

• Slightly higher cost per ml

Longfills

Pros

• Fully customisable

• Better value for regular users

• Flexible nicotine strength

• Adjustable VG/PG ratio

• Freshly mixed flavour

Cons

• Requires mixing

• Takes more preparation time

• Better suited to experienced vapers

Which One Offers Better Value?

If you vape occasionally, shortfills are often the most practical choice because they're convenient and require almost no preparation.

If you're a regular vaper who enjoys tailoring your vaping experience, longfills can offer better value in the long run thanks to their flexibility and lower cost per millilitre.

Ultimately, the better option depends on your preferences rather than one format being universally superior.

Tips for Choosing the Right Option

Before deciding between longfills and shortfills, consider the following:

• Your vaping experience

• Preferred nicotine strength

• Device type

• Budget

• How much customisation you want

• Time you're willing to spend mixing

For most beginners, shortfills provide the easiest introduction. More experienced vapers often appreciate the additional control that longfills offer.

Final Thoughts

When comparing longfills vs shortfills, neither option is objectively better—they simply cater to different vaping styles. Choose shortfills if you want convenience, consistency, and a straightforward vaping experience with minimal preparation. Choose longfills if you enjoy customising every aspect of your e-liquid, from nicotine strength to VG/PG ratio, while potentially saving money over time. Whichever you choose, always purchase high-quality e-liquids from reputable UK vape retailers and follow the manufacturer's instructions when adding nicotine or mixing ingredients.

FAQs.

1. What is the main difference between longfills and shortfills?

Shortfills contain almost-ready e-liquid with space for a nicotine shot, while longfills contain flavour concentrate that must be mixed with base liquid and optional nicotine.

2. Are longfills cheaper than shortfills?

Longfills can offer better value per millilitre, especially for regular vapers who buy VG, PG, and nicotine separately.

3. Are shortfills suitable for beginners?

Yes. Shortfills are generally the easiest option for beginners because they require very little preparation.

4. Can I vape a shortfill without nicotine?

Yes. Shortfills are nicotine-free by default and can be used without adding a nicotine shot.

5. Do longfills produce better flavour?

Many users find longfills provide excellent flavour because the e-liquid is freshly mixed, although flavour quality also depends on the brand and recipe.

6. Which is better for sub-ohm vaping?

Both can work well, but many shortfills are specifically designed with high-VG blends suitable for sub-ohm devices.

7. Can I customise nicotine strength with both?

Yes. However, longfills offer greater flexibility because you control the entire mixing process.

8. Do longfills require steeping?

Some longfills may benefit from steeping after mixing to allow the flavours to blend fully, depending on the manufacturer’s recommendations.

9. Are both longfills and shortfills compliant with UK regulations?

Yes, when sold by reputable retailers in accordance with UK vaping regulations.

10. Which should I choose?

If you value simplicity, choose shortfills. If you prefer complete control over your e-liquid and enjoy mixing, longfills are an excellent choice.