What Is a Drip Tip?
A drip tip is the removable mouthpiece that sits at the top of your tank or atomizer, serving as the connection point between your device and your mouth.
While it may seem like a small component, the drip tip significantly affects your vaping experience by controlling airflow, heat transfer, comfort, and even flavour intensity.
Drip tips are one of the most overlooked yet important parts of any vaping setup.
The right drip tip can:
- Improve airflow for smoother draws
- Reduce heat transfer for a cooler vape
- Enhance comfort during long vaping sessions
- Change the overall aesthetic of your device
- Increase or decrease vapour density
- Protect your lips from hot tanks
Many vapers upgrade their drip tips to customize their experience, replace worn-out mouthpieces, or simply add a personal touch to their setup.
High-quality drip tips offer several important characteristics:
- Heat-resistant materials that stay cool
- Smooth, comfortable lip contact
- Secure fit without wobbling
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Durable construction for long-term use
- Wide compatibility with tanks and RDAs
Whether you prefer the tight draw of a 510 drip tip or the airy inhale of an 810 wide bore, choosing the right drip tip transforms your vaping experience.
510 Drip Tips vs 810 Drip Tips
Understanding the difference between 510 and 810 drip tips is essential when choosing the right mouthpiece for your device.
These two sizes serve different purposes and suit different vaping styles.
510 drip tips are the original standard size, featuring a narrow bore ideal for mouth-to-lung (MTL) and restricted direct-to-lung (RDL) vaping.
Key measurements:
- Outer diameter: approximately 8.5mm
- Inner bore: typically 3mm to 5mm
- Shorter in height compared to the 810 tips
Best for:
- MTL vaping with tight airflow
- Restricted lung draws
- Cigarette-style inhales
- Higher nicotine strength e-liquids
- Flavour-focused vaping
Advantages:
- Tighter, more controlled draw
- Enhanced flavour concentration
- Warmer vapour due to shorter distance
- Ideal for mouth-to-lung tanks
- More discreet vaping
Compatible devices:
- MTL tanks like the Aspire Nautilus
- Older sub-ohm tanks
- Most pod-mod tanks
- Rebuildable atomizers with 510 adapters
Popular materials for 510 tips:
- Delrin for heat resistance
- Stainless steel for durability
- Resin for style and comfort
810 drip tips feature a wider bore designed for direct-to-lung (DTL) vaping and maximum airflow.
Key measurements:
- Outer diameter: approximately 12.5mm to 14mm
- Inner bore: typically 6mm to 10mm+
- Taller to accommodate higher airflow
Best for:
- DTL sub-ohm vaping
- Cloud chasing
- High-wattage setups
- Low-resistance coils
- Open, airy draws
Advantages:
- Massively increased airflow
- Cooler vapour due to a larger bore
- Better for cloud production
- More comfortable for long DTL sessions
- Reduces heat transfer to lips
Compatible devices:
- Modern sub-ohm tanks (Geekvape Z Series, Freemax)
- Cloud-chasing RDAs and RTAs
- High-wattage tanks
- Most devices manufactured after 2017
Popular materials for 810 tips:
- Resin for unique designs and cool touch
- Delrin for heat resistance and affordability
- Stainless steel for a premium feel
- Ultem for heat resistance and visibility
|
Feature |
510 Drip Tips |
810 Drip Tips |
|
Bore Size |
3mm-5mm |
6mm-10mm+ |
|
Outer Diameter |
~8.5mm |
~12.5mm-14mm |
|
Airflow |
Tight, restricted |
Open, airy |
|
Best For |
MTL, RDL |
DTL, clouds |
|
Vapour Temp |
Warmer |
Cooler |
|
Flavour |
Concentrated |
Balanced |
Choose 510 if:
- You use MTL tanks or older devices
- You prefer a tight, restricted draw
- You want concentrated flavour
- You vape at lower wattages (under 40W)
Choose 810 if:
- You use modern sub-ohm tanks
- You enjoy open airflow and clouds
- You vape at high wattages (60W+)
- You want cooler vapour
Most modern sub-ohm tanks come with 810 drip tips, while MTL devices typically use 510 connections.
Wide Bore Drip Tips for Cloud Chasing
Wide bore drip tips, typically in the 810 format, are specifically designed for cloud chasers and high-wattage vapers who demand maximum airflow.
What Makes a Drip Tip "Wide Bore"?
Wide bore drip tips feature an inner diameter of 8mm or larger, allowing significantly more air to pass through with each inhale.
Benefits of wide-bore drip tips:
- Dramatically increased airflow for bigger clouds
- Cooler vapour due to larger air volume
- Less turbulence during inhalation
- More comfortable for extended DTL sessions
- Reduced condensation buildup
Best Wide Bore Materials for Cloud Chasing
Delrin and Ultem:
- Stay cool even during chain vaping
- Perfect for high-wattage builds
Resin:
- Combines style with heat resistance
- Great for show builds and competitions
Stainless steel:
- Sleek appearance for modern setups
- Durable for competition use
Choosing the Right Bore Size
8mm bore:
- Balanced airflow and flavour
- Good for everyday sub-ohm vaping
10mm bore:
- Increased airflow for clouds
- Ideal for 80W to 150W vaping
12mm+ bore:
- Maximum airflow for competition builds
- Best for extreme wattage (150W+)
Most vapers find 8mm to 10mm bores provide the best balance of airflow, flavour, and comfort.
How to Choose the Right Drip Tip?
Selecting the perfect drip tip depends on your device, vaping style, and personal preferences.
First, determine whether your tank or RDA uses 510 or 810 connections. Most modern sub-ohm tanks use 810, while MTL devices typically use 510. Some tanks include adapters to switch between sizes.
For MTL vaping:
- Choose 510 drip tips with narrow bores
- Delrin or stainless steel works best
- Shorter tips for concentrated flavour
For RDL vaping:
- Choose 510 with slightly wider bores or small 810 tips
- Resin or Delrin for comfort
For DTL and cloud chasing:
- Choose 810 wide bore tips (8mm-12mm)
- Delrin or Ultem for heat resistance
- Resin for style and comfort
If you vape at high wattages or chain vape:
- Prioritize Delrin, Ultem, or resin
- Avoid stainless steel, which conducts heat
If you vape at moderate wattages:
- Any material works well
- Choose based on style preference
For style and uniqueness:
- Resin drip tips offer the most visual appeal
For durability:
- Stainless steel or Delrin lasts the longest
For heat resistance:
- Ultem or Delrin stays coolest
For flavour purity:
- Glass offers the cleanest taste
For budget:
- Delrin provides the best value
Consider the shape and length:
- Shorter tips create warmer vapour
- Longer tips cool the vapour before reaching your lips
- Curved tips angle away from your nose
- Straight tips feel more natural for some users
Lip contact area:
- Smooth, rounded edges are most comfortable
- Wider contact distributes pressure better
- Textured grips prevent slipping
Drip tips are a great way to personalize your setup:
- Bright resin tips add colour and character
- Stainless steel tips create a modern, industrial look
- Black Delrin tips offer understated elegance
- Clear Ultem tips show off your tank's e-liquid
How to Clean and Maintain Your Drip Tips?
Proper cleaning keeps your drip tips hygienic, comfortable, and performing at their best.
Daily Cleaning Routine
After each vaping session:
- Wipe the exterior with a clean cloth
- Remove any visible condensation
- Check for e-liquid buildup inside the bore
This quick maintenance prevents residue buildup and keeps your drip tip fresh.
Weekly Deep Cleaning
Once a week, give your drip tips a thorough clean:
- Step 1: Remove the drip tip from your device
- Step 2: Rinse under warm water to remove loose residue
- Step 3: Soak in warm soapy water for 10-15 minutes
- Step 4: Use a pipe cleaner or cotton swab to clean the bore
- Step 5: Rinse thoroughly with clean water
- Step 6: Dry completely with a paper towel or cloth
- Step 7: Allow to air dry before reinstalling
Material-Specific Care Tips
Delrin drip tips:
- Avoid harsh chemicals that may degrade plastic
- Use mild soap and warm water only
- Don't expose to extreme heat
Resin drip tips:
- Handle carefully to avoid chips or cracks
- Clean gently to preserve the finish
- Store safely when not in use
Stainless steel drip tips:
- Can handle stronger cleaning solutions
- Polish with a soft cloth to maintain shine
- Check O-rings regularly for wear
Ultem drip tips:
- Clean like Delrin with mild soap
- Resistant to most chemicals
- Very low maintenance
Glass drip tips:
- Handle with extra care during cleaning
- Use warm water and mild detergent
- Dry thoroughly to prevent water spots
Replacing O-Rings
Most drip tips use small O-rings to create a secure seal.
If your drip tip becomes loose or leaks:
- Remove old O-rings carefully
- Replace with appropriately sized rings
- Apply a tiny amount of e-liquid to lubricate
O-rings should be replaced every few months or when they show signs of wear.
When you shop at Vaping 101, you're choosing a trusted UK retailer known for genuine products, variety, and excellent service. Here's why vapers across the country rely on us for their drip tip needs.
Huge Selection of 510 and 810 Drip Tips
From standard 510 MTL tips to wide-bore 810 cloud-chasing mouthpieces, our collection covers every size, style, and material. Whether you need a practical Delrin replacement or a stunning resin showpiece, you'll find it here.
100% Authentic Products
Every drip tip we stock is sourced from reputable manufacturers and authorized distributors. No low-quality knockoffs. Just genuine drip tips that deliver the comfort, durability, and performance you expect.
Premium Materials at Competitive Prices
We stock drip tips in Delrin, resin, stainless steel, Ultem, and glass, ensuring options for every budget and preference. Our pricing remains among the most competitive in the UK without sacrificing quality.
Fast UK Delivery
We dispatch orders quickly to ensure your drip tips arrive as soon as possible. Spend over £50 and enjoy free UK delivery on your entire order.
Expert Advice from Real Vapers
Not sure whether you need a 510 or 810 drip tip? Wondering which material suits your vaping style? Our team knows drip tips inside out and can help you choose the perfect option for your device and preferences.
Trusted by the UK Vape Community
With hundreds of 5-star reviews and a strong reputation built over years, Vaping 101 has become a go-to destination for quality vape hardware and accessories. When you shop with us, you're getting authenticity, variety, and support you can trust.
Frequently Asked Questions About Drip Tips
510 drip tips are narrower (approximately 8.5mm outer diameter) with smaller bores (3mm-5mm), designed for MTL and restricted lung vaping. 810 drip tips are wider (12.5mm-14mm outer diameter) with larger bores (6mm-10mm+), designed for DTL sub-ohm vaping and cloud chasing. Most modern sub-ohm tanks use 810 connections, while MTL devices typically use 510.
Not directly, but many tanks include adapters that allow you to use a 510 drip tip on an 810 connection. Alternatively, you can purchase 810-to-510 adapters separately. However, using a narrow 510 tip on a high-airflow sub-ohm tank may restrict airflow significantly.
It depends on your priorities. Delrin and Ultem offer the best heat resistance for high-wattage vaping. Resin provides stunning looks and good heat resistance. Stainless steel is the most durable. Glass offers the purest flavour. For most vapers, Delrin or resin provides the best balance of comfort, heat resistance, and value.
Heat transfer occurs naturally during vaping, especially at high wattages or with short drip tips. Stainless steel conducts heat more than plastic materials. To reduce heat, switch to a Delrin, Ultem, or resin drip tip, use a longer tip to increase distance from the coil, or lower your wattage slightly.
Measure the outer diameter or check your tank's specifications. 510 tips are approximately 8.5mm wide, while 810 tips are 12.5mm to 14mm wide. Most modern sub-ohm tanks clearly state whether they use 510 or 810 connections in their product descriptions.
Only if it matches your tank's connection type (510 or 810). Some tanks use proprietary drip tips that won't work with standard replacements. Always check compatibility before purchasing. Most aftermarket drip tips use standard sizing, but some specialty tanks may require specific tips.
Replace your drip tip when it becomes cracked, chipped, discoloured, or uncomfortable. With proper care, high-quality drip tips can last years. However, if you notice wear on O-rings, cracks in resin, or significant buildup that won't clean, it's time for a replacement. Most vapers replace drip tips when upgrading their style rather than due to wear.
New to vaping or your not sure where to start ?
Don’t worry vaping might seem a bit confusing at first, but it really doesn’t need to be. If you’re unsure where to start or just want things explained clearly, we’ve put together a set of simple guides to help you understand the basics. From choosing the right vape kit to looking after your vape and learning the different ways to vape, everything’s covered in plain language.
We also have helpful videos from our reviewer, Andrew, who walks you through each topic and products shows you exactly how it all works.
If you need any extra help, our friendly support team is here 7 days a week via live chat or give us a call on 01224 032542 and we’ll be happy to assist. You can also reach us through Contact Us.
