If you're browsing vape liquids in the UK, you've probably seen terms like shortfill and longfill—but what exactly do they mean? While both are nicotine-free by law (due to TPD restrictions), they serve very different purposes when it comes to how you mix and use them.
In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between shortfills and longfills, what they’re used for, and how to choose the right one for your setup.
What is a Shortfill E-Liquid?
A shortfill is a large bottle of ready-made, flavoured e-liquid that’s filled short—meaning there’s space left in the bottle for you to add a nicotine shot.
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Example: A 120ml bottle containing 100ml of flavoured e-liquid, leaving 20ml of space for Nicotine Shots.
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Purpose: Designed for ease and flexibility. Just add your nic shot, shake, and you’re good to go.
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Common Use: Popular with sub-ohm vapers who want bigger bottles and the option to adjust nicotine levels.
Pros:
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Pre-mixed flavour – ready to vape once nic shot/s is added
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Fast and convenient
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Ideal for high VG sub-ohm use
Cons:
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Limited ability to change flavour strength and nicotine level
Shop our 100ml Shortfill range here
What is a Longfill E-Liquid?
A longfill flips the concept around: instead of a full-flavoured base with space for nicotine, it’s a concentrated flavour shot in a large bottle that requires you to add both a nicotine shot and a base liquid (VG/PG mix).
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Example: A 60ml bottle containing 10–20ml of concentrated flavour, leaving 40–50ml of space for your own VG/PG and nic shots.
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Purpose: Offers more control over flavour intensity, VG/PG ratio, and nicotine strength.
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Common Use: Preferred by DIY vapers who want to fine-tune their e-liquid blends.
Pros:
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Customise everything: flavour strength, VG/PG ratio, and nicotine
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Often better value for money in the long run
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Great for MTL or custom coil setups
Cons:
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Requires base liquid and measuring
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Needs steeping time for flavour to develop
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Not suitable for beginners or those wanting plug-and-play convenience
| Feature | Shortfill | Longfill |
|---|---|---|
| Nicotine Content | 0mg (space for nic shot) | 0mg (space for nic + base) |
| Contents | Pre-mixed flavoured e-liquid | Flavour concentrate only |
| Ready to Vape? | Almost – just add nic shot | No – needs base and steeping |
| VG/PG Ratio | Pre-set | Fully customisable |
| Customisation | Minimal | High |
| Mixing Required | Minimal | High |
| Ideal For | Convenience, sub-ohm users | DIY fans, flavour chasers |
Which One Should You Choose?
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Go with a shortfill if:
You want a simple, fast, and effective way to vape flavoured e-liquid. Great for sub-ohm devices, with the option to add a nic shot if needed. -
Go with a longfill if:
You’re into DIY vaping and want total control over your e-liquid mix — from VG/PG ratio to nicotine strength and flavour intensity. Ideal for advanced users who don’t mind a bit of mixing and steeping.
In the UK, both shortfills and longfills provide TPD-compliant ways to enjoy vaping without the restrictions of 10ml nicotine bottles. The right choice depends on how involved you want to be in the mixing process. Shortfills offer convenience and speed, while longfills give you maximum control and customisation.
Whether you’re after plug-and-play simplicity or enjoy crafting your perfect vape, there’s an option that fits your style.
