ZYN vs On: Complete 2025 Comparison

The nicotine pouch market is growing rapidly, with ZYN and On! as key players in the shift away from traditional tobacco products. These small, tobacco-free pouches have sparked interest among consumers and health professionals, who want to better understand their benefits and risks.

This guide compares ZYN and On! nicotine pouches, examining their delivery systems, health effects, and key differences. We'll explore:

• Key differences in strength, flavor options, and pricing

• Research-backed evidence for safety claims

• How each brand delivers nicotine

• Important factors for different types of users

• Brand positioning and regulatory status

This analysis will help you make an informed decision about nicotine pouches—whether you're looking for an alternative to smoking or comparing different brands—based on current research and market data.

What Are Nicotine Pouches?

Nicotine pouches are small, tobacco-free packets placed between the upper lip and gum. These modern alternatives deliver nicotine through oral absorption—no spitting or smoke required. Each pouch combines nicotine with plant-based fibers, sweeteners, and flavorings, designed to release nicotine gradually over 30–60 minutes.

Key Players: ZYN and On!

ZYN and On! both produce tobacco-free nicotine pouches, but they source their nicotine differently: ZYN extracts it from tobacco plants, while On! creates it synthetically in a lab.

On!, created by Helix Innovations LLC, is a more recent competitor that has captured market share by offering competitive prices and a focused product line.

Both brands lead the U.S. market, with ZYN's extensive distribution network and strong brand recognition giving it broader retail presence, especially in areas where Philip Morris International (owners of Zyn) has established partnerships.

What Makes ZYN Stand Out?

Unique ZYN Flavors

ZYN offers more than 12 flavors, with menthol-infused options like Cool Mint and Spearmint providing a distinct cooling sensation. The menthol creates a "throat hit" that mimics smoking. While bold choices like Black Cherry and Citrus appeal to users seeking intense flavors, critics argue their sweetness could attract younger users.

ZYN Strength Options

ZYN offers the industry's widest range of nicotine strengths, from 1.5 to 15 mg per pouch. This range suits both newcomers and experienced users. Light smokers can use the 1.5 mg option as a cessation aid, while heavy users can opt for the 15 mg "Extra Strong" variants.

For easy selection, strength levels are marked with dots on each can—for example, four dots indicate 15 mg.

Accessibility and Market Influence

ZYN's extensive distribution network and strong brand recognition ensure broad retail availability. While its recent FDA authorization for 10 flavors demonstrates regulatory compliance, critics contend that its marketing—particularly through social media "Zynfluencers"—risks attracting younger demographics.

On! Nicotine Pouches: A Contender?

On! Flavor Variety

On! offers the same number of flavors as ZYN but takes a different approach, avoiding menthol in favor of branded flavors. Its Wintergreen pouches deliver “the crisp taste of classic chewing gum without added cooling effects.” This approach resonates with users who prefer natural flavor profiles rather than extra sensory effects.

On! Nicotine Strength

On! offers nicotine strengths from 1.5 to 8 mg per pouch. The 1.5 mg option serves cautious beginners well, while the 4 mg varieties meet the needs of moderate users. However, without options above 8 mg, On! may not satisfy highly nicotine-dependent individuals.

Price Comparison: ZYN vs On!

On! has a 6% lower price than ZYN ($4.59 per can versus ZYN's $4.89), making it appealing for budget-conscious users. Bulk purchases offer even greater savings:

• On!: $3.44 per can in 100-pouch bundles

• ZYN: $3.67 per can for the same quantity

Advantages of Choosing ZYN

Tobacco-Free and Smoke-Free Experience

ZYN provides a tobacco-free, smokeless experience without the need for spitting, while maintaining strict quality control standards in production.

Innovative Nicotine Release System

ZYN has a mildly acidic pH (6–7), which speeds up nicotine release and improves absorption through the mouth's inner lining.

Food-Grade Ingredients

Key ingredients include:

• Nicotine salts (bitartrate dihydrate), which enable quick absorption

• Plant-based cellulose filler

• pH adjusters (sodium carbonate) for optimal nicotine delivery

• Sweeteners (Acesulfame K) and food-grade flavorings

Potential Drawbacks of ZYN

Price

ZYN costs $4.89 per can—30 cents more than On!'s $4.59. However, buying in bulk can narrow this price gap.

Possible Side Effects for Sensitive Users

Potential health effects include:

• Cardiovascular impact: Nicotine raises heart rate and blood pressure, which increases the heart's oxygen needs

• Oral health concerns: Long-term pouch use may irritate gums and cause white patches or potentially harmful lesions

• Digestive system effects: Users report nausea, hiccups, and diarrhea

Comparison with Traditional Tobacco Products

When compared to traditional tobacco products, ZYN offers several key differences:

• No tobacco leaf content, which eliminates exposure to tobacco-specific nitrosamines and other carcinogens

• No spitting required, unlike traditional smokeless tobacco products

• More precise nicotine dosing than cigarettes or dip

• Less dental staining and fewer breath issues

• More discreet use thanks to minimal odor and no smoke. However, ZYN still delivers nicotine, an addictive substance, and comes with its own health considerations.

Other Alternatives to ZYN in the Market

Velo and Other Brands

Velo, manufactured by R.J. Reynolds Vapor Company, is another major competitor in the nicotine pouch market. Its key features include:

• A nicotine strength range of 2-7 mg per pouch

• Competitive pricing at $4.29 per can

• Distinctive flavors like Citrus Burst and Dragon Fruit

Other alternatives include:

• Nordic Spirit: Distinguished by its Scandinavian heritage

• Rogue: Known for cost-effective options with multiple strength levels

• FRĒ: Appeals to health-conscious users with its “all-natural” ingredients

Traditional Swedish snus is still available for those who prefer tobacco-based products, though it doesn't offer the tobacco-free advantage of modern nicotine pouches.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Nicotine Pouch Brands

Flavor Preferences

Both ZYN and On! offer diverse flavor profiles, including citrus, wintergreen, menthol, and coffee.

Nicotine Content and Delivery Methods

Key considerations include:

• ZYN's broader strength range (1.5-15 mg)

• On!'s moderate range (1.5-8 mg)

• Different pH levels affecting nicotine release

• Pouch format options (ZYN offers both Slim and Mini Dry, while On! only offers Mini Dry)

Which Brand Is Better: On! or ZYN?

The best choice depends on your specific needs:

• Novice users: Start with lower strengths—ZYN's 1.5–3 mg or On!'s 1.5–3 mg pouches

• Heavy smokers: ZYN's higher strength range (6–15 mg) provides a closer match to cigarette nicotine levels

• Cost-conscious users: On! provides better value

• Flavor enthusiasts: On!'s non-mentholated options suit those who prefer pure flavors without cooling effects.

ZYN leads in flexibility with its wide range of nicotine strengths and format options, making it suitable for experienced users and those trying to quit smoking. On! offers better value for moderate users but has fewer options in strengths and formats.

Summary

ZYN and On! are tobacco-free nicotine pouches designed for oral absorption, offering a smokeless alternative to traditional tobacco products. ZYN provides a wider range of nicotine strengths (1.5–15 mg) than On! (2–9 mg), while On! is slightly cheaper at $4.59 per can compared to ZYN's $4.89.

ZYN's menthol-infused flavors create a cooling sensation, while On! focuses on non-mentholated options with natural taste profiles. The brands differ in nicotine sourcing—ZYN uses tobacco-derived nicotine, while On! uses synthetic nicotine. Despite these distinctions, both products pose health risks, including cardiovascular effects, gum irritation, and nausea.

ZYN's recent FDA authorization for 10 flavors strengthens its regulatory standing, though concerns persist about its marketing strategies and appeal to younger users. On! offers a cost-effective alternative with moderate nicotine strengths but lacks options for highly dependent users. Ultimately, choosing between ZYN and On! depends on individual preferences for strength, flavor, price, and nicotine source.