When it comes to vaping, most people automatically reach for the well-known brands that dominate the shelves. But the world of vape liquids is much bigger than the mainstream labels. Hidden beneath the surface are countless independent e-liquid producers crafting exceptional flavours, experimenting with ingredients and delivering experiences that are truly unique. If you’re ready to step away from the usual suspects and explore something new, here are ten e-liquid brands you’ve (probably) never heard of but might soon become your go-to.
1. Zeus Juice
Zeus Juice is a UK-based brand that has quietly built a cult following thanks to its bold and imaginative flavour combinations. From tropical fruits to indulgent dessert-inspired blends, Zeus Juice e-liquids are carefully balanced to offer both intensity and smoothness. Their range is perfect for anyone looking to try something new and stand out from the more common fruit or tobacco vape liquids.
2. Dr Frost
Dr Frost is a UK-based e-liquid brand renowned for its bold fruit and menthol fusions. Since its inception in 2016, the brand has garnered a loyal following with its refreshing and icy vape liquids. Their Polar Ice and Frosty Fizz collections offer a variety of flavours, including Watermelon Ice, Grape Ice, and Strawberry Ice, each delivering a crisp and cool vaping experience. Dr Frost e-liquids are available in both 10ml nicotine salts for mouth-to-lung (MTL) devices and larger 100ml shortfills suitable for sub-ohm vaping, with a 70% VG concentration
3. Nasty Juice
Nasty Juice hails from Malaysia and, although more well-known in Asia, it’s still relatively niche in the UK. Their vibrant fruit blends, such as mango and lychee or guava and strawberry, are refreshingly unique and perfect for vapers looking for something tropical. The brand is committed to high-quality ingredients, which ensures a clean vape and rich flavour every time.
4. Riot Squad
Riot Squad is a British brand with a reputation for rebellious branding and powerful flavour profiles. Their Hybrid Nicotine range combines freebase nicotine and nicotine salts, offering a vape that is both smooth and impactful. Popular flavours include fruit medleys, candy-inspired mixes and dessert options, all crafted to deliver maximum taste. Riot Squad e-liquids are ideal for vapers who enjoy bold, punchy flavours with a UK twist.
5. Twelve Monkeys
Twelve Monkeys, based in Canada, has gained recognition for tropical, jungle-inspired flavours. Each vape liquid in their range balances sweet and tart notes, creating blends that are bright, refreshing and complex. Their fruit-forward vape liquids, such as mango, passionfruit and guava combinations, are ideal for anyone seeking an exotic twist on their daily vape.
6. Element E-Liquid
Element E-Liquid is an American brand focused on precision mixing and premium ingredients. They offer both shortfills and nic salts, providing options for every type of vaper. Element’s range spans classic tobacco, refreshing menthol and bright fruit blends, making it a versatile brand for anyone who wants consistent quality and flavour. Their vape liquids are especially known for smoothness, making them easy to enjoy all day.
7. Dinner Lady
Dinner Lady has made a name for itself by turning nostalgic British desserts into e-liquids. Flavours like lemon tart, rice pudding and apple pie offer a taste of home with every puff. This brand is ideal for vapers who enjoy sweeter, dessert-style vape liquids or want something a little different from standard fruit or menthol options. Dinner Lady continues to innovate, releasing seasonal and limited edition e-liquids that keep things exciting.
8. Pacha Mama by Charlie’s Chalk Dust
Part of the Charlie’s Chalk Dust family, Pacha Mama specialises in exotic fruit blends. Their mixes often combine multiple tropical fruits for rich, layered flavours that are bold and memorable. Mango, papaya and pineapple combinations are particularly popular, providing a sweet and refreshing vaping experience. Pacha Mama is ideal for vapers who enjoy vibrant, juicy e-liquids that feel tropical with every inhale.
9. Just Juice
Just Juice is a UK brand focusing on tangy, fruity flavours that are full of character. Their e-liquids range from single fruit concentrates to complex fruit medleys, providing something for all tastes. Nicotine salt options are smooth and satisfying, offering a comfortable throat hit without sacrificing flavour. For anyone who loves bright, punchy vape liquids, Just Juice is a brand worth exploring.
10. Wick Liquor
Wick Liquor is known for its complex, layered blends that stand out from the crowd. From carnival-inspired treats to unique tropical fusions, their e-liquids offer something truly different. Each vape is carefully crafted for maximum flavour impact, making it ideal for adventurous vapers who want to try something new. Wick Liquor continues to experiment with flavours, keeping their range fresh and exciting.
How to Choose the Right E-Liquid
Finding the right e-liquid can seem daunting, especially with so many options available. Here are some key factors to consider when exploring new vape liquids:
Nicotine Strength
Nicotine levels play a huge role in your vaping experience. Nicotine salts, such as those from Dr Salt or Just Juice, provide a smoother hit and are ideal for those transitioning from smoking. Freebase nicotine e-liquids, often found in brands like Zeus Juice or Riot Squad, offer a stronger throat hit and are popular with cloud chasers. Start with a moderate level and adjust according to your comfort.
Flavour Profiles
Vape liquids come in countless flavours, from classic tobacco to fruity blends and dessert-inspired mixes. If you enjoy sweet treats, brands like Dinner Lady and Wick Liquor are perfect. If you prefer refreshing, tropical flavours, Pacha Mama or Twelve Monkeys will be more appealing. Experimenting with different profiles helps you find your personal favourites.
VG/PG Ratios
The vegetable glycerine (VG) to propylene glycol (PG) ratio affects both vapour production and flavour intensity. Higher VG e-liquids, common in many shortfills, produce larger clouds and smoother hits, making them ideal for sub-ohm vaping. Higher PG e-liquids provide stronger flavour and more throat hit, better suited to mouth-to-lung devices. Understanding VG/PG ratios ensures a better match with your vape device.
Brand Reputation and Quality
Independent or lesser-known e-liquid brands often focus on premium ingredients and innovative recipes. Choosing reputable brands such as Zeus Juice, Element E-Liquid or Riot Squad helps guarantee a safer, high-quality vape. Always check for third-party lab testing and compliance with UK and EU e-liquid regulations.
Device Compatibility
Some e-liquids are better suited for sub-ohm tanks, while others work best in pod systems. High-VG shortfills, for example, are ideal for sub-ohm tanks and cloud chasing, whereas nic salts perform better in low-wattage pod devices. Matching your e-liquid to your device maximises both flavour and satisfaction.
Final Thoughts
Exploring lesser-known e-liquid brands is an exciting way to discover new flavours, enjoy high-quality vape liquids and expand your vaping experience. From tropical fruit medleys to nostalgic desserts, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re an experienced vaper or new to the scene, brands like Zeus Juice, Pacha Mama, Dinner Lady and Wick Liquor prove that innovation in vape liquids continues to thrive.
By paying attention to nicotine strength, flavour profiles, VG/PG ratios and device compatibility, you can find the perfect vape liquid to suit your taste. These ten brands are just the beginning of a much larger world of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Start experimenting today and see which e-liquids will become your new favourites.