Vaping cannabis offers an alternative to the more traditional way of smoking. Like smoking, it’s a form of inhalation — a method of consumption that produces effects in as little as a few minutes. However, instead of inhaling smoke from a joint, pipe, or bong, you inhale cannabis vapor using a vaporizer.
Cannabis vaporizers are devices that, as the name suggests, vaporize cannabis material rather than combust it. The result is smoother, gentler hits that are easier on your lungs and don’t contain the more dangerous toxins and tar that come with inhaling smoke. Studies suggest it’s a safer alternative to smoking. Vapor also doesn’t have the same pungent, instantly identifiable odor that cannabis smoke has.
For users who want the instant effects of inhalation without the tar, carcinogens, and harsh hits associated with smoking, cannabis vaporizers offer a great solution. Users who prefer a fast-acting but discreet method may find vaporizers ideal.
Types of Vaporizers and How They Work
One of the first things to know about cannabis vaporizers is that you have options. These devices come in all shapes and sizes, allowing you to find the one that suits your unique needs and lifestyle.
In general, most cannabis vaporizers work the same. They heat cannabis material (flower, oil, concentrate) just below the point of combustion, producing vapor instead of smoke. The lower temperatures also activate more of your chosen material’s volatile compounds, including beneficial terpenes and minor cannabinoids. Many vaporizers feature temperature control, too, allowing you to adjust the heat of your device to your needs and preferences.
Now let’s take a closer look at the different types of vaporizers available:
Tabletop Vaporizers
Tabletop cannabis vaporizers are the largest of the bunch. They’re stationary devices designed to sit on solid surfaces (like a table). Style options are practically limitless. You’ll even find some that look — at first glance — like regular home décor items.
Despite the available options, many tabletop vaporizers share a few similar features:
- A heating element
- A chamber for your cannabis material
- A mouthpiece
- A temperature control dial
Most tabletop devices vaporize cannabis flowers, although you can find varieties that work with concentrates. While they allow for more precise temperature control than other types of vaporizers, their size and the fact that many require access to a wall outlet make them less than ideal for on-the-go users. They can get pretty pricy, too. However, you can use them over and over, so you may find the cost worth the investment.
Portable Vaporizers
Portable vaporizers are similar to tabletop varieties, with the notable exception of being smaller. As such, they’re easier to carry with you wherever you go. These more discreet vaporizers feature a heating element, cannabis chamber, mouthpiece, and battery. You control their temperature using a small dial or button.
Depending on the style, you can use a portable vaporizer to vape dry herb, oil, or cannabis concentrate. Some varieties only work with one product type. Others are compatible with more than one, giving you more freedom with your product usage.
Vape Pens
Vape pens are the best-known type of cannabis vaporizer, consisting of a battery and cartridge. These are small handheld devices approximately the size of a pen, specifically designed to vaporize oils or distillates. They’re the most discreet of the three vaporizer options. Most can fit right in your pocket, and you can take a hit without drawing much attention to yourself. Additionally, they’re the most affordable type of vaporizer.
Reusable vs. Disposable Pens
Reusable vape pens feature a rechargeable battery. In most cases, cartridges are removable, allowing you to swap between different strains. Cartridges either screw into the battery or attach magnetically, depending on the style. You’ll need to make sure you purchase carts compatible with the pen you buy.
Disposable pens are one-time-use products you can use immediately after opening. Once the cart — or battery — runs out, you throw the entire device away. Although they’re usually cheaper than reusable ones, you do have to buy a whole new pen every time you run out of cannabis. You’ll need separate pens for each strain you want to use.
Choosing a Cannabis Vaporizer
No one style of cannabis vaporizer is inherently better than the other. It all comes down to your needs, goals, and preferences. If you only use cannabis at home and want precise control over your temperatures, you might get the most out of a tabletop vaporizer. If portability or cost are your main concerns, consider a vape pen.
Think about the types of cannabis products you prefer. Tabletop and portable vaporizers are generally best for those who want to use flowers. You might opt for a pen if oils or concentrates are more your style, although some portable options work with these products, too.
Not sure where to start? Ask a dispensary budtender for help! Budtenders at the best cannabis shops have a wealth of cannabis product knowledge and can guide you in the right direction based on your answers to a few questions. They can also offer helpful advice for using, storing, and cleaning vaporizers to ensure you have the best experience with your new device.
How To Use Cannabis Vaporizers
Using a cannabis vaporizer is pretty straightforward. Although there are a few differences depending on the specific style you have:
- Tabletop: Turn your device on, select your desired temperature, and allow it to warm up. Many varieties have an indicator light to let you know they’re ready. Inhale through the mouthpiece, hold the vapor in your lungs for a few seconds, and then exhale.
- Portable: In general, portable vaporizers work similarly to tabletop ones. You turn it on, let it warm up, and take your hit.
- Vape pen: Vape pens heat more quickly than tabletop and portable vaporizers. Some styles have a button you must hold down as you take your dose. Auto-draw varieties are buttonless. Instead, you activate the heating element by inhaling through the mouthpiece.
Shop VidaCann for Your Cannabis Vaping Needs
With cannabis vaporizers, you can enjoy the benefits of inhalation without the drawbacks of smoking. As with any consumption method, the best experiences start with the best products. At VidaCann, you’ll find a selection of the highest-quality cannabis products in Florida, including vape carts, concentrates, flowers, and more. Check us out online or visit a nearby dispensary today.
