There are way more options for consuming cannabis than a joint or a handy glass bowl. Different types of smoking devices unite science, innovation, and consumer-friendly features to take any sesh to the next level.
This guide offers a look into some of the most popular types of smoking and vaping devices available to cannabis consumers today, along with brief descriptions of how they work and what they’re good for. Is your favorite device on the list?
8 types of cannabis smoking devices
There are many types of cannabis products out there, so it should come as no surprise that there is also a wide range of cannabis smoking devices as well. Whether you prefer smoking cannabis flower or vaporizing cannabis concentrates, there’s a device for you. Here’s a look at some of the most popular types of cannabis smoking devices on the market today.
1. Joints and blunts
One of the most classic ways to inhale cannabis is by rolling ground flower in a joint or blunt. These methods make it easy to share your flower with others, taking a few puffs before passing it along (safely, of course!). And, if you want to save some for later, you can easily pop a joint or blunt into a doob tube, where it extinguishes and stays safe for another sesh.
Traditionally, you’ll need to grind flower and roll your own joints or blunts at home. Some people find this process relaxing and enjoyable, and if you’d like to learn more about it check out our guide on how to roll a blunt. But this process isn’t for everyone. If you’d rather skip the process altogether, check out the house-rolled joints and house-rolled blunts at Iconic, priced right with options as low as $4.20 a joint.
2. Bowls and pipes
Bowls and pipes offer an easy way to smoke cannabis. Simply grind your flower, pack your bowl or pipe, and light up! You can consume a “bowl pack” over time or all at once, whatever you prefer. These devices don’t require a lot of effort to use, but they do need to be cleaned periodically to avoid clogging. Typically, that’s as easy as soaking them in isopropyl alcohol or a saltwater mixture to remove any residue that’s built up inside.
3. Bongs and bubblers
Bongs are great choices if you love big hits and efficiency. With a similar amount of flower as a bowl pack, bongs deliver a significant amount of smoke that’s suitable if you have higher tolerance. Bubblers are similar to bongs but tend to be a bit smaller, offering a more compact option that can still pack a punch.
Bongs and bubblers are generally upright pipes that can be filled with water. The “slide,” a removable straw-like piece with a bowl attached, is inserted into the water, creating a bubbling effect while inhaling. To use a bong or bubbler, light the flower that’s been packed into the slide and inhale on the mouthpiece. The bong will begin to fill with smoke. When you’re satisfied that there’s enough smoke in the bong, remove the slide and inhale deeply to take the hit.
4. One hitters
One hitters offer an easy and discreet way to quickly smoke a small amount of cannabis flower, hence the name “one hitter.” Usually small, cylindrical tubes, one hitters are among the simplest devices to use. Simply pack a bit of flower into your one hitter, light, and inhale. Like bowls and pipes, you should periodically clean your one hitter to avoid residue build up clogging the airways. Otherwise, though, they require virtually no maintenance.
5. Vaporizers
Vaporizers are electronic devices that heat cannabinoids and terpenes to their boiling point without combusting the plant material or concentrate itself. The resulting vapor is gentler and more flavorful than smoke. Vaporizers are also more discreet than other methods of consumption because they don’t create a lingering odor like other forms of smoking. Depending on the model you choose, your vaporizer may work with cannabis flower, extract, or both — always refer to your device owner’s manual to be sure.
Vaporizers come in portable and desktop models. Portable vaporizers may be as simple as a 510 vape battery, which attaches to a 510 vape cartridge filled with cannabis oil, or more complex with advanced features like precise temperature control and even mobile app connection. These devices make it easy to bring your vaporizer along with you wherever you go.
Desktop vaporizers are larger, more powerful units that are typically plugged in for use at home. The trade off is that their vapor production is immense and they don’t need to be recharged, ready at a moment’s notice for your next session.
6. Dab rigs
Dab rigs are the traditional device used to consume cannabis extracts, known colloquially as dabs. These glass pipes feature a “nail” or “banger,” typically made of metal or quartz. Using a blowtorch, heat the nail until it’s red hot and then use a dab tool to place a small amount of extract — just a dab — onto the heated nail, where it’s instantly vaporized. Simultaneously, inhale on the mouthpiece of the pipe to draw in the highly potent vapor. Dab rigs are great choices for consumers who like serious potency, but they aren’t particularly portable.
7. Dab straws
Dab straws (sometimes called honey straws or nectar collectors) are portable dab rigs that allow you to consume extract on the go without a traditional rig. Instead, dab straws are easily assembled into a small, vertical vaporizer. These devices are still heated with a torch, but can be touched directly to the extract (on a heat-resistant surface) as you inhale on the mouthpiece. For many, this is much easier than heating a banger, scooping up the extract with a dab tool, and handling it while inhaling. However, dab straws aren’t the most discreet method since they still require a blowtorch.
8. Dab pens
If you’re looking for portability and discretion while dabbing, dab pens are likely the best bet for you. These electronic devices work similarly to portable vaporizers, but are specially designed to work with extracts like wax. Generally, the extract is loaded into a chamber of the dab pen, where it’s heated until vaporized. Simply inhale on the mouthpiece to draw in the vapor and you’re dabbing on the go without the need for a blowtorch, dab tool, or silicon mat.
How to choose the right consumption device for you
When considering which smoking or vaping devices are best for you, it’s important to consider your priorities in a session. Take into account the following when determining which device offers the type of experience you would prefer.
- Product type: Depending on the product types you prefer, you may lean toward one device over another. For example, if you prefer extracts like crumble or THC diamonds, you might lean towards dab rigs, straws, and pens. If you prefer flower, joints, blunts, and bowls may be more your speed.
- Harshness: Some consumers find combusted flower (AKA smoke) to be a bit rough. If you prefer a smoother draw, consider a vaporizer. Or, if you like to smoke but don’t want big hits, you may prefer a bowl over a bong.
- Flavor: The device you use can determine the richness of flavor you experience. Portable vaporizers with precise temperature control, for example, can be configured to preserve terpenes and maximize flavor.
- Portability: Some devices can be brought along with you, like joints, bowls, and compact vaporizers, while others like bongs and dab rigs are not. Consider whether you’ll use your chosen smoking device on the go or in one place.
- Discretion: Privacy is key for some consumers, and certain devices can be easily concealed and don’t produce a noticeable aroma. If you’re trying to be discreet, a portable vaporizer or 510 vape battery may be your best bet.
- Preparation: Some consumers find grinding and rolling cannabis flower to be a relaxing ritual, while others consider it a hassle. When choosing a device, consider how much preparation is required to use it and whether you would mind going through that process each time before you consume.
- Maintenance: Some devices require regular cleaning and extensive maintenance, like vaporizers. Others, like one hitters, are easy to keep clean and ready for consumption. Consider how much work it will take to maintain your device between uses.
Of course, different situations call for a variety of experiences, so there’s no need to limit yourself to just one device type. Keep a few devices at home so you can choose the right fit for every occasion.
Different cannabis smoking devices produce unique experiences
The way you consume cannabis can influence your overall experience, so don’t be afraid to try out many different types of smoking devices. Over time, you will determine your favorite methods of consumption for different circumstances, which can enhance each of your sessions. To learn more about the different types of smoking devices and the types of cannabis products they work with, stop by an Iconic Wellness provisioning center and speak with one of our friendly expert budtenders about what options might be best for you.
