Deciding whether to dab or smoke can be challenging, especially for newcomers. Each method offers unique benefits and experiences, changing how users enjoy their concentrates or flower. Dabbing provides a quick, potent, and clean experience, while smoking delivers a more traditional approach with a familiar feel. Understanding the differences between these methods will help you make the best choice based on your preferences and lifestyle.
Is It Better to Dab or Smoke?
Dabbing and smoking are two common ways to use cannabis, but they offer different experiences. Each method has its benefits and challenges, making one better depending on your preferences. To decide whether it's better to dab or smoke, let's explore what each method offers in simple terms.
What Is Dabbing?
Dabbing involves:
- Heating a small amount of concentrated cannabis.
- Called a "dab."
- Using a device called a dab rig or a Dab pen.
The dab rig has a part called a nail or banger, which is heated with a torch. Once hot, the dab is placed on the nail, producing a vapor that you inhale.
Benefits of Dabbing
- Stronger Effects:
Dabbing usually gives a much stronger high than smoking. This is because the concentrate used in dabbing has a lot more THC, the part of cannabis that makes you feel high. While smoking cannabis flowers might contain up to 30% THC, concentrates can have up to 90%. This makes dabbing a good choice if you want a more intense effect with just a small amount.
- More Efficient:
Because dabbing is so strong, you need less material to get the same effect as smoking. This can save you money over time since you use less product. It's also faster because you get the desired effect with just one or two hits.
- Better Flavor:
Dabbing can offer a more flavorful experience. The concentrates retain the natural flavors of the cannabis strain, which might get lost when smoking flowers. This makes dabbing a tastier option if you enjoy the taste of cannabis.
- Less Smoke:
Dabbing produces vapor instead of smoke, releasing fewer harmful chemicals. This makes dabbing a bit easier on your lungs compared to smoking, though it’s not completely risk-free.
Challenges of Dabbing
- Complicated Setup:
Dabbing requires special equipment, including a dab rig, a torch, and the concentrates. This setup can be tricky for beginners and more expensive than just rolling a joint or packing a pipe.
- Takes Time to Learn:
Because dabbing is stronger, you must be careful not to use too much at once. Learning how to heat the nail just right and how much to dab can take practice. Using too much or inhaling too quickly can be overwhelming, especially for new users.
- Cost:
Starting dabbing can be pricey. The rig, torch, and other tools can cost more than a basic pipe or bong. Plus, the concentrates themselves are often more expensive than regular cannabis flowers.
What Is Smoking?
Smoking is the most common way to use cannabis. It involves burning dried cannabis flowers and inhaling the smoke. You can smoke in different ways, like rolling a joint, using a pipe, or a bong.
Benefits of Smoking
- Simple and Easy:
Smoking is simple and easy. All you need is some cannabis and something to smoke it with, like papers or a pipe. This simplicity makes it a popular choice for both new and experienced users.
- More Control:
Smoking cannabis gives you more control over how high you get. You can take one puff, wait to feel the effects and decide if you want more. This makes it easier to avoid getting too high, especially if you're not used to stronger effects.
- Variety of Options:
With smoking, you have lots of choices. Whether you like rolling joints, using a pipe, or hitting a bong, you can customize your experience. Each method can change how cannabis tastes and feels.
Challenges of Smoking
- Not as Strong:
Compared to dabbing, smoking is less intense. You might need to smoke more to get the same effect you would from a single dab. This can be less efficient and more costly over time.
- Health Concerns:
Smoking involves burning cannabis, which produces smoke that contains harmful chemicals. While it’s generally considered less harmful than tobacco, it can still irritate your lungs and throat and lead to respiratory problems if done often.
- Strong Smell:
Smoking cannabis has a strong, noticeable odor that can stay on your clothes and in your surroundings. This can make it less easy to use, which might be an issue if you want to keep your use private.
Learn What's in a Cart? How are cartridges made?
Which Is Better: To dab or smoke?
Whether you should dab or smoke depends on what you want from your cannabis experience. Dabbing might be the better option if you prefer a stronger, more efficient high and enjoy experimenting with flavors. Just keep in mind that it requires more equipment and practice.
On the other hand, if you value simplicity, ease of use, and having more control over your high, smoking could be the way to go. It’s easier to start and offers a more traditional cannabis experience, though it comes with the drawbacks of smoke and a strong smell.
