Looking to Cut Costs Without Compromising Flavor?
If you’re looking for a way to save money while still enjoying incredible flavors and using your favorite vape device, 50/50 shortfills might just be your new best friend. These larger nicotine-free e-liquid bottles are a budget-friendly option that allow you to customize your vape experience without sacrificing quality.
With the increasing costs of vaping (and upcoming vape juice taxes in 2026), shortfills could be a game-changer for vapers looking to cut down on expenses. And if the idea of mixing shortfills with nicotine shots sounds complicated—don’t worry—it’s quicker and easier than you think.
Here’s everything you need to know about 50/50 shortfills.
What Are 50/50 Shortfills?
Shortfills are large bottles of nicotine-free e-liquid that include space at the top to add your own nicotine shots (a.k.a. nic shots). The "50/50" refers to their VG:PG ratio—50% vegetable glycerin (VG) and 50% propylene glycol (PG).
While shortfills have been around for a while, most of them traditionally had a 70/30 VG:PG ratio, which made them unsuitable for low-powered vape devices like vape pens. But now, with 50/50 ratios, shortfills are compatible with a wider range of devices, including starter kits and pod systems such as the Vaporesso Xros 3 Mini.
How to Add Nicotine to a 50/50 Shortfill
Don’t be intimidated—mixing a nicotine shot into your shortfill is a simple and straightforward process that anyone can do. Whether you're new to vaping or have been at it for a while, adding nicotine to your shortfill doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few easy steps, you’ll have your e-liquid ready to use in no time. Here’s how to do it and get the perfect mix:
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Remove the cap and stopper from your shortfill bottle.
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Add your nicotine shot(s): Typically, you'll add one 10ml nic shot to a 50ml shortfill or two to a 100ml shortfill.
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Seal the bottle: Replace the stopper and cap securely.
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Shake it up: Give the bottle a good shake to mix everything thoroughly.
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Set it aside (optional): Allow the e-liquid to steep for a while, which can enhance its flavor.
What Is a Nic Shot, and What Are Your Options?
A nicotine shot is a 10ml bottle of nicotine-containing e-liquid, typically flavorless, that you mix into your shortfill. To get the best experience with 50/50 shortfills, choose a nic shot with a 50/50 VG:PG ratio.
You can customize your vape further by selecting from a variety of nic shots, such as:
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Freebase Nic Shots: For a moderate throat hit.
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Nic Salt Shots: For a smoother inhale and faster nicotine absorption.
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Flavored Shots: Add a cooling menthol effect or something fizzy to tweak the taste to your liking.
Advantages of 50/50 Shortfills
Why are so many vapers making the switch to 50/50 shortfills? These versatile e-liquids offer a perfect balance of flavor and vapor production, making them ideal for both sub-ohm and mouth-to-lung devices. Here are the top benefits you should know about!
1. Cost Savings
50ml or 100ml shortfills are much cheaper to produce than small 10ml bottles, and these savings are passed on to you. When vape juice taxes rise in 2026, the cost savings will be even more noticeable.
2. Less Plastic Waste
Big bottles mean fewer smaller ones. Reducing the number of plastic bottles you use also reduces your environmental footprint.
3. Device Compatibility
Unlike the thicker 70/30 shortfills, 50/50 shortfills work well with a broader range of devices, from vape pens to most pod kits.
4. Longer-Lasting Vape Supplies
Since shortfills come in larger bottles, you won’t have to restock as often.
5. Customized Nicotine Strength
You’re in control! Add more or fewer nic shots to achieve your desired nicotine level. Though, it’s worth noting shortfills will always have a lower max nicotine strength compared to premixed high-strength 10ml bottles.
Disadvantages of 50/50 Shortfills
Shortfills aren’t perfect, and it’s important to weigh the potential downsides before choosing them. For example, they require you to add your own nicotine shots, which can be inconvenient for some users. Additionally, if not mixed properly, the flavor and nicotine strength may not be as consistent as pre-mixed e-liquids.
1. Less Convenient
Unlike premixed e-liquids, shortfills require some prep as you’ll need to add nicotine shots. While this only takes a couple of minutes, it’s an extra step.
2. Lower Nicotine Strength
Even with 20mg nic shots, the final nicotine strength in shortfills is lower. For example:
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A 50ml shortfill with one 20mg nic shot provides 3.3mg/ml nicotine.
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A 100ml shortfill with two 20mg nic shots offers the same strength.
If you prefer e-liquids with higher nicotine levels, shortfills may not be ideal.
3. Learning Curve for Beginners
Vaping newcomers might find shortfills overwhelming compared to premixed e-liquids. Starting with 10ml bottles could be simpler.
How Do 50/50 Shortfills Compare to 70/30 Shortfills?
| Feature | 70/30 Shortfills | 50/50 Shortfills |
|---|---|---|
| Vapor Production | High | Average |
| Device Compatibility | Mods/Pod Mods | Starter Kits/Pod Devices |
| Coil Lifespan | 2–4 Days | 1–2 Weeks |
| Throat Hit | Gentle | Adjustable with Nic Salt Shots |
| Usage Style | Direct-Lung | Mouth-to-Lung |
Why 50/50 Shortfills Could Be the Future of Vaping
As the vaping landscape evolves with tighter regulations and growing demand for sustainable choices, one option is gaining serious traction: 50/50 shortfills.
Offering the perfect balance of cost-efficiency, rich flavor, and customizable nicotine levels, 50/50 shortfills give you more control over your vape experience—without breaking the bank. Whether you’re chasing smooth throat hits or bold flavor, this versatile option could be your new go-to.
Ready to level up your vape game?
Now’s the time to explore the power of 50/50 shortfills. Try new blends, mix your preferred strengths, and enjoy long-term savings while staying ahead of upcoming vape tax changes.
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Got a favorite shortfill combo or a mixing hack?
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