How To Choose The Right Vaporizer For You

Modern innovation within the cannabis industry has led to a massive variety of products when it comes to vaporizers. This form of technology allows users to inhale a clean hit of vapor that’s rich in terpenes and free of the carcinogenic byproducts of combustion. Vapes started as crude and blocky products, but have now been refined into sleek and futuristic designs. Shopping for a vaporizer can be quite a confusing process because of the massive selection available. Plus, different models have different functions specific to user preferences. This guide will help you decide which one is right for you.

DECIDE HOW MUCH YOU ARE WILLING TO SPEND

If you’re new to vaping and are just looking to give it a go, then something like a disposable vape cartridge or "cart" might be within your budget range. If you’re a veteran and looking to upgrade to a high-quality model, then your budget is likely to consist of 3 figures. Those able to make a significant investment will be absolutely spoiled for choice with the high-quality selection of devices on offer. Before shopping around, decide on your reasons for investing and come up with a realistic budget.

NEW TO VAPING? TRY DISPOSABLE PRODUCTS

Even if you have the money, but don’t feel experienced enough to make a permanent purchase, you can still choose the cheap option and purchase a disposable cart. These products come in an array of different strains and potencies, and are usually available in half-gram and full-gram options. If you’re curious to try vaping for the first time, or already have and don’t want to spend much, try out some disposable products.

WHAT CANNABIS PRODUCTS DO YOU LIKE TO CONSUME?

This is an important question to consider before purchasing a vaporizer. Some cannabis lovers prefer to keep things traditional with buds, whereas others favour the sheer potency of extracts like oils and waxes. Before buying a vape, you’ll need to decide what kind of cannabis product you plan on using it with. Some vapes are made to only work with concentrates, and others are made purely for flower. If you simply can’t decide between these, you can always opt for a vape that can handle both. Just be sure that the vape you choose is compatible with your product preference before buying.

CONVECTION VS. CONDUCTION: WHICH IS BETTER?

Depending on the model, vaporization is achieved by either conduction or convection. You might remember some of these words from science class, but in case you don’t, here’s what they mean. Conduction involves direct contact between the heating source and the flower or extract. This makes for faster heating times, and these models are usually cheaper. However, this direct contact can also increase the chances of combustion, which is what most vape users are trying to avoid.

Convection devices work on the basis that hot air rises. The flower or extract is suspended above the heat source; instead of direct contact, hot air passes through the material and heats it in a more gentle fashion. This reduces the chance of the material combusting, and also makes for more pleasant-tasting vapor. But this quality comes at a cost—convection devices are often more expensive and require more time to heat up before using.

DESKTOP OR PORTABLE?

Are you the kind of person who likes to vape up at home whilst gaming or getting some work done? Or perhaps you prefer to indulge whilst out and about hiking trails or shopping? If you relate more to the latter, then a portable vape is right for you. If the former sounds more appealing, then consider getting a desktop model.

Portable vapes come in various shapes and sizes, but mostly take on the appearance of a pen. They are lightweight and discreet, and can be inhaled from almost anywhere without people noticing. Pens that vape flowers, extracts, or both are available. The Storm and Pax 3 are two discreet vapes designed for use on the go.

Other portable vapes are more chunky and large, which makes them less discreet. Some of them are more suitable to transport in bags as opposed to pockets. However, they do come with the additional benefits of bigger chambers for increased herb and extract capacity. Several models also feature LED screens that allow users to change temperature settings. The Crafty by Storz & Bickel is a good example of a robust portable vape. This device has a large capacity for dried plant material and features smoothed edges that make it easy to hold and operate. The model features a mouthpiece that folds down, which makes it more compact during transport.

For those who prefer to get high in the comfort of their own home, desktop vaporizers are ideal. These models are significantly bigger and therefore have a much higher material capacity. Another advantage of these devices is that they don’t need charging—just place them directly into the main power supply and you’re good to go. These models are obviously far less discreet than their portable counterparts, but they are made for home use after all. Vapes such as the Volcano Digit can be used to fill up large bags to be shared among friends, and make for perfect party devices.

DO YOUR RESEARCH

It’s important to thoroughly research a product and company before investing in what they have to offer. Read as many reviews on the product as possible. This will make it apparent whether you are dealing with a professional and reputable company with high-quality products and good customer service, or rip-off merchants looking to make some quick cash.

The best companies out there will be willing to answer your questions, offer you a warranty, and repair faulty devices. They also offer superior products made of stainless steel, ceramic, and glass. Be wary of companies with bad product reviews, who don’t answer your concerns, and who offer cheap products made from plastics that can be harmful to your health.