Which Tank Should You Choose?
The Innokin Zlide consistently ranks as one of the finest MTL tanks available, and for good reason. The newer Zlide Top variant adds an adjustable airflow design alongside the original's proven performance, measuring 24mm in diameter with six colour options to choose from. It's particularly brilliant with the 0.8-ohm or 0.48 ohm coils that deliver exceptional flavour clarity.
For pure flavour performance, the Aspire Nautilus 3 remains a favourite among experienced vapers. The engineering behind Aspire's coil technology really shows - you get consistent performance and flavour that stays true throughout the coil's lifespan.
If you're just starting your vaping journey, the Innokin Endura T18E Pro tank offers simplicity without sacrificing quality. It's designed specifically for beginners who want reliable performance without complicated settings or adjustments.
Understanding MTL vs DTL Differences
The fundamental difference lies in how you inhale. MTL vaping involves drawing vapour into your mouth first, then inhaling into your lungs - exactly like smoking a cigarette. DTL vaping bypasses this step, drawing vapour directly into your lungs like taking a deep breath.
This difference affects everything: coil resistance, airflow design, nicotine strength, and even the type of e-liquid that works best. MTL setups typically use higher nicotine concentrations (often 10-20mg) because the absorption rate differs from DTL vaping.
MTL tanks also tend to be more economical. Lower wattage requirements mean longer battery life, while the coils last longer due to reduced stress from heat. You'll also use less e-liquid per session, though you might find yourself reaching for your vape more frequently throughout the day.
Choosing the Right Coils and E-Liquids
Coil selection makes or breaks your MTL experience. Higher-ohm coils (above 1.0 ohm) generally provide better flavour concentration and work more efficiently at lower wattages. The 0.6-ohm range offers a nice middle ground - still proper MTL territory but with slightly more vapour production.
E-liquid choice matters enormously too. Higher PG ratios (50/50 or 60/40 PG/VG) work best in MTL tanks because they're thinner and wick more efficiently in tighter coil configurations. Plus, PG carries flavour better than VG, which is exactly what you want in a flavour-focused setup.
Nicotine salts have revolutionised MTL vaping, allowing much higher nicotine concentrations without the harsh throat hit of traditional freebase nicotine. If you're transitioning from smoking, nic salts might be exactly what you need to satisfy those cravings properly.
Maintenance and Longevity Tips
MTL tanks are generally easier to maintain than their sub-ohm cousins, but they still need proper care. Coils typically last 1-2 weeks with regular use, though this depends heavily on your e-liquid choice and vaping frequency.
Sweet e-liquids will kill coils faster. The sweeteners caramelize on the coil surface, creating that burnt taste nobody wants. If you're a dessert flavour fan, just budget for more frequent coil changes.
Cleaning is straightforward but important. Rinse components with warm water when changing flavours, and give everything a proper clean weekly. The tighter tolerances in MTL tanks mean they're more sensitive to residue buildup than larger systems.