How to Be a Smart Marijuana Shopper & Save Money
March 23, 2021
Dear Budtender - My dispensary runs are getting expensive! Can you give me some tips on how to save money on marijuana?
From, Budget Shopper
Dear Budget Shopper - Nothing’s cheap these days, and marijuana is no exception. To help our customers, and customers of dispensaries around the country, we’ve put together a little guide to help you get smart about your cannabis shopping. This way, you can get the green you want or need without taxing your bank account.
Here are the five steps you should follow to save money on marijuana:
1. Check Dispensary Deals
Most marijuana retailers have a variety of deals and sales that run throughout the year. It can mean something as simple as getting a pre-roll tucked into your order to getting a significant deal on your favorite concentrate because it’s 4/20. Most dispensaries have websites where you can see the deals they’re running, others offer e-newsletters that promote their sales, and some keep certain deals secret to incentivize you to come to the dispensary. This is where having a good relationship with a budtender—that you tip for their services—can help you stay on top deals and ensure you get the marijuana you want at a reduced cost.
2. Join Dispensary Loyalty Programs
It’s no secret—dispensaries don’t just want you to come back, they need you to come back to ensure that they can keep their doors open. One of the tactics dispensaries use is to incentivize regulars with a dispensary loyalty program. It can be points based, spend based, or some combination of both, or it can be something unique to that dispensary, but if you frequently visit your dispensary, you should make sure you’re signed up for any kind of loyalty program. In many cases, you’ll be notified about deals before the rest of the public are, allowing you to call dibs on your favorite strain before it’s sold out.
3. Buy Bulk Flower
Every state has their own limits, but when you purchase up to the limit of flower, there’s a good chance you’ll save money and the dispensary will even give you a deal—especially if you’re a regular.
Think about it. You make a purchase from a dispensary, get home, consume what you bought, and head back a week later to resupply. What are you spending in time, gas, and straight up dollars to do that? Instead, you could purchase in bulk, potentially get a discount from your favorite budtender in the process, save time and gas, and get a supply that lasts you longer. It’s a win for you and a win for a dispensary.
For states that have different possession and purchase laws, meaning that they allow you to possess a larger amount than you can purchase in one visit, buying in bulk can allow you to benefit from the discounts you’re offered and increase the amount of cannabis you possess at any point in time. That means less visits and less spending.
4. Pack Your Own Pre-Roll
This piece of advice depends on your dispensary and the cost of supplies. In general, it is cheaper for you to purchase rolling papers, filters, and flower—and then roll your own “joint”—than it is to buy pre-rolls. There are some times where pre-rolls can be cheaper, like during a sale, but you have to remember, pre-rolls don’t always use premium flower, and they’re not always the freshest bud in the store. This means that not only can you save money by rolling your own, you can also ensure you’re getting a better quality pre-roll than something purchased off the shelf.
Of course, it also means that you need to learn how to roll your own pre-roll. Just remember, it doesn’t have to look good, you just need to be able to smoke it, so practice rolling with a less expensive flower, and you’ll get the hang of it in no time.
5. Choose Cartridges Over Disposable
While there are a lot of incentives to purchasing disposable vape pens, like ease of use, less mess, etc, cartridges on the whole tend to be less expensive than disposable pens. This is because you can purchase the battery once (there are some that don’t even hit the $20 mark) and then add the concentrate of your choice to the battery. While it may not be huge savings up front, the cost of not repurchasing a complete device and instead purchasing a replacement cartridge does add up over time to savings you can spend on something else in the dispensary.
Be a Smart Marijuana Shopper
The most cost efficient way to smoke marijuana (or vape, ingest, etc) is to simply be aware of the programs your dispensary offers and ask if there are any ways you can save on the cost of your marijuana (like buying in bulk). Budtenders and dispensary owners want you to come back, so if you’re a regular, they’ll likely work with you to ensure you stay a happy customer, and they keep your business. It also means keeping your cannabis-buying schedule flexible, so you can hit the dispensary when you know you’re going to save money rather than going and purchasing products at a premium.
Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.
Related posts
You may have heard “hash” used as another word for marijuana flower, but this is actually a misnomer. While hash is made from marijuana flower, they are two distinct cannabis products. In fact, hash is the oldest cannabis concentrate, tracing its origins back thousands of years. If you’re curious about hash vs marijuana, we’ve got the breakdown below.
What is Marijuana?
Marijuana is what we call the drug created from cannabis, a flowering plant with psychoactive properties belonging to the Cannabaceae family.1 Cannabis originated in the wild, with one study suggesting that the plant evolved 28 million years ago in the Tibetan region.2 Hemp is technically the same plant as cannabis, the only difference being the amount of the psychoactive cannabinoid THC they contain.3
Cannabis appears throughout human history, starting as early as 4,000 years ago when Chinese farmers began to cultivate it for use as oil and fiber in rope, paper, and clothing.2 Cannabis seeds were also found among the ruins of Pompeii, meaning cannabis was there when the city was buried in ash in 79 A.D.4
What is Hash?
Hash, short for hashish, is a concentrated form of marijuana made from the resin-producing glands (known as trichomes) of the cannabis plant.5 These trichomes contain all the plant’s cannabinoids and terpenes, which means hash is often significantly more potent than regular marijuana flower. Many other cannabis concentrates are solvent-based extracts because of the solvents used to make them, but hash is a solventless concentrate.3
Hash is usually found in solid block or paste-like forms and can vary in color from light brown to black. It has been used for centuries, particularly in regions like the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia.6 The name "hashish," however, comes from Arabic and loosely translates to "grass."7
Production Methods
The techniques used to process marijuana and hash have been passed down through generations. While there are plenty of new, high-tech methods, many approaches to marijuana and hash remain steeped in tradition.
Marijuana Production
Marijuana involves cultivating and harvesting the cannabis plant, which is then cured or flash frozen before being processed into different forms, like flower, edibles, or concentrates. Curing is the careful drying process that preserves the plant’s potency and flavor, whereas flash freezing (a more modern invention) halts any degradation at the time of harvest. Different strains of marijuana are bred to produce varying levels of THC and CBD, which can yield nuances in their psychoactive effects.
Hash Production
Hash production involves collecting the resinous trichome glands from cured or frozen cannabis plants and compressing them into a solid form. Hash can be soft and malleable or hard and brittle, depending on the production method.8 Here’s the different ways hash can be made:
- Hand rolling involves vigorously rubbing harvested cannabis buds between your hands until the resin has coated your palms, then continuing to rub until the resin sticks together into solid balls. This makes a form of hash known as charas.9
- Dry sifting puts cannabis buds through a series of finer and finer mesh screens to separate out the trichomes, which are then collected and compressed into a ball, block, or “cake.”7 This method makes a form of hash called Moroccan hash.6
- Ice-water extraction involves putting cured cannabis buds in ice water, which makes the trichomes brittle and easier to separate from the rest of the plant matter. The hash made from this process is known as bubble hash because of the bubbles it creates when smoked.8
It’s possible to make hash at home, but it can be tricky. Bubble hash tends to be the best bet for beginners. Visit our blog on bubble hash to learn more.
Potency Comparison
Hash can contain THC levels as high as 80%, compared to the average 20-25% THC found in cannabis flower.5 This is because hash is composed entirely of trichomes, the most potent part of the cannabis plant.
Consumption Methods
You’ll find more variety when it comes to consuming marijuana, but hashish consumption still boasts some inventive methods.
- Smoke it : One of the most popular ways to consume hash is by mixing it with ground cannabis flower in joints, blunts, bowls, and bongs. This makes for a more potent experience than you’d get from flower alone. If you’re using a pipe, be sure to place a mesh screen over the flower-filled bowl and then add your hash.8 This prevents hot hash from melting through the opening and gunking up your pipe.
- Vaporize it: A traditional way to consume hash is by dabbing with a dab rig, which involves heating up the nail, positioning your hash inside it, and then inhaling the vapor produced. You can also use an e-rig or dab pen. These methods allow you to control the temperature, which can be key to releasing all the flavors, aromas, and potency of hash.8
- Make it into edibles: You can portion out hash to make your own hash edibles at home, but you’ll have to decarboxylate it first. Eating raw hash will do nothing but give you a stomachache. Hash edibles can be far more potent than regular weed edibles, so they’re not typically recommended for anyone who’s newer to cannabis.10
Sensory Experience
Due to its higher THC concentration, hash tends to produce a more intense and longer-lasting high. Plus, with all the terpenes harvested from the trichomes, the taste and aroma of hash can be richer and more resinous compared to marijuana. The flavors of hash are often more earthy and spicy, while marijuana tends to be lighter with herbal, floral notes.
Hash vs Marijuana: Pros and Cons
When choosing between hash and marijuana for your next smoke session, there’s a couple things you’ll want to consider. We’ve laid them all out for you below.
Hash Pros and Cons
Hash can be a great choice for cannabis enthusiasts looking for a flavorful, long-lasting experience.
Pros:
- Higher potency and a full-spectrum experience
- Can be made at home
- Strong flavors and aromas
Cons:
- Potency can be too much for new consumers
- More complex production process means higher price tag
- Less product variety
Marijuana Pros and Cons
In comparison to hash, marijuana can be better suited for many situations because of its versatility.
Pros:
- Easier to find in dispensaries
- Variety of strain options offering different flavors and effects
- Better suited for beginners due to lower potency
Cons:
- Requires larger amounts to achieve strong effects
- Shorter shelf life compared to hash
FAQs About Hash & Marijuana
Still have questions about the differences between hash vs marijuana? You’re not alone—many cannabis consumers wonder how these two products compare. Below, we’ve answered some of the most common questions to help you make an informed choice.
Is hash stronger than marijuana?
Yes, definitely. Hash can contain THC levels up to 80%, while cannabis flower typically averages around 20-25% THC.How is hash made?
There’s multiple ways to make hash, but they all involve extracting the trichomes from the cannabis plant and condensing them, usually by hand or mechanically. Unlike many other concentrates, solvents are not involved.Are the legal statuses different?
In general, if a state has legalized marijuana, then hash is legal there too. Check your state laws to be sure.How are the production processes different?
Cannabis plants are grown, harvested, and then processed in all kinds of ways to create the wide variety of finished marijuana products on the market today. Hash is created from harvested cannabis plants that have been dried or frozen.Can you use hash and marijuana interchangeably?
No. They may both be cannabis products, but they’re entirely different. Hash is typically much, much stronger than marijuana.Deciding Between Marijuana and Hash
Both hash and marijuana have deep-rooted histories, with cannabis use dating back thousands of years across different cultures. While marijuana has evolved into a diverse market of strains and products, hash remains a time-honored concentrate, cherished for its potency and rich flavor. Ultimately, whether you choose marijuana or hash, both offer unique benefits and are worthy additions to any cannabis connoisseur’s collection.
Sources:
1. “What Is Cannabis? Usage, Effects And Legality,” Forbes, April 17, 2024, https://www.forbes.com/health/cbd/what-is-cannabis/
2. “Oldest evidence of marijuana use discovered in 2500-year-old cemetery in peakcs of western China,” Science, June 12, 2019, https://www.science.org/content/article/oldest-evidence-marijuana-use-discovered-2500-year-old-cemetery-peaks-western-china
3. “Hemp vs. Cannabis: What's the Difference?” Healthline, January 31, 2025, https://www.healthline.com/health/hemp-vs-marijuana
4. “Early cannabis uses and migration,” Weedmaps, June 18, 2021, https://weedmaps.com/learn/cannabis-and-its-evolution/cannabis-first-use-and-migration
5. “What Is Hashish, Exactly?” Leafwell, October 7, 2024, https://leafwell.com/blog/hashish
6. “Hashish 101: What is hash and how to smoke it,” Weedmaps, June 28, 2024, https://weedmaps.com/learn/products-and-how-to-consume/how-to-smoke-hash
7. “Hash: What is it and how to make it,” Leafly, May 9, 2024, https://www.leafly.com/learn/consume/dabs/what-is-hashish
8. “How to make hash,” Weedmaps, October 25, 2022, https://weedmaps.com/learn/products-and-how-to-consume/how-to-make-hash
9. “What is charas and how do you make it?” Weedmaps, June 28, 2024, https://weedmaps.com/learn/products-and-how-to-consume/charas
10. “Hash Edibles vs. Weed Edibles: Similarities and Differences,” Leafwell, October 7, 2024, https://leafwell.com/blog/hash-edibles-vs-weed-edibles
Use of Marijuana Concentrate may lead to: Psychotic symptoms and/or Psychotic disorder (delusions, hallucinations, or difficulty distinguishing reality); Mental Health Symptoms/Problems; Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) (uncontrolled and repetitive vomiting); Cannabis use disorder/dependence, including physical and psychological dependence. Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.
THC drinks are the newest consumable creation shaking up the cannabis industry, offering users the chance to enjoy their favorite beverages with an added twist. For a long time, the idea of a THC drink was impossible, due to the compound not being water-soluble. But new technology and techniques have opened up a world of possibility. So how do you choose whether to drink or eat your cannabis? We’ll help you decide below.
THC Drinks Breakdown
THC drinks are beverages infused with compounds from cannabis. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive compound in cannabis, and cannabidiol (CBD) are naturally hydrophobic, meaning they repel water and don’t mix well. However, thanks to advancements in nanoemulsion technology, THC and CBD can now be effectively infused into liquids.1
THC Drink Types Available
THC drinks may be relatively new, but that hasn’t stopped them from being formulated into the classic beverages we all know and love. Today, you can find cannabis in:
- Seltzers and sodas: A bubbly, refreshing way to drink your cannabis, THC-infused seltzers and sodas come in various flavors, from fruit essences to cola-inspired.2
- Tea: Unlike traditional canna-tea made from steeped marijuana flower, these teas are infused with THC for a more controlled and precise dose. You can find a wide variety of flavors, from herbal to black tea.3
- Coffee: If we can’t talk to you until you’ve had your morning coffee, then THC-infused coffee is a perfect way to get both the boost of your cup of joe along with an added twist.4
- Mocktails: Cannabis-infused mocktails offer an alternative to alcoholic drinks. These zero-proof versions of your favorite cocktails are enhanced with THC for a unique, elevated experience.5
- Powdered drink mixes: The perfect solution for on-the-go cannabis consumers, THC powder in drink mix packets allows you to infuse a measured dose of THC into any liquid, anywhere you are.6
Key Characteristics of THC Drinks
THC drinks offer novel appeal to cannabis consumers for a number of reasons: they provide a burst of short-lived psychoactive effects, allow for a more social experience, and incorporate the flavors of popular beverages. Here’s just a few of the benefits to consider:8
- Quick onset and short duration: The body is able to absorb and process THC drinks faster because these types of products don’t have to go through the digestive system like traditional edibles do. You may begin to feel the effects of a THC drink within 10-15 minutes, and those effects typically last 1-3 hours.
- Customizable dosing: THC drinks offer a lot of variety in dosage, with some low-dose options containing 2-4mg THC, and other formulations with upwards of 100mg.8 A THC beverage can be sipped slowly, giving you unique control over the experience.
- Discreet and sociable: Many THC drinks come in pull-tab aluminum cans, just like soda or beer, making them easy to blend into social settings. Since everyone can have their own preferred drink, you can still share group experiences while choosing what works best for you.
- Taste: Because THC drinks are often made with flavorless, odorless cannabis extracts, they won’t have any of the associated herbal tastes or aromas. For some cannabis users, this is preferred.
Cannabis Edibles Overview
THC is naturally fat-soluble, helping it blend perfectly into butter and oils. That’s why, for a long time, marijuana consumables were restricted to solid foods. With advances in our knowledge of marijuana and the technology used in the cannabis industry, we can now infuse almost anything.
Marijuana edibles are digested first and then metabolized in the liver, which is what triggers their psychoactive effects. This means waiting longer for the initial high, but that high is longer lasting because it takes the body more time to process fats and solids.
Common Edible Types
Edibles come in many different variations, here are some of the most common to choose from:
- Gummies: One of the most popular and widely available cannabis edibles, gummies come in various shapes, sizes, and flavors.
- Baked goods: Brownies, cookies, and rice krispie treats are classic cannabis edibles. These are made by infusing the batter or dough with cannabis oil or butter.
- Lozenges: These are small, dissolvable cannabis-infused confections offered in mint or fruit flavors. They dissolve slowly in the mouth, allowing for the cannabinoids to be absorbed through the mouth’s lining.
- Chocolates: Cannabis chocolates and chocolate bars combine sweet, rich chocolate with cannabis extracts.
- Savory snacks: For those who prefer salty over sweet, cannabis-infused snacks like popcorn or trail mix are a perfect choice.
- Pills and capsules: Often containing THC powder or THC isolate, THC pills and capsules are similar to traditional medications, providing a convenient, easy-to-dose way to consume cannabis.
Key Characteristics of Marijuana Edibles
Edibles are a popular and versatile way to consume cannabis, with a range of products to suit different tastes and needs. Here’s just a few of the benefits to consider:7
- Slow onset, long-lasting effects: Edibles take time to pass through the digestive system and metabolize in the liver, anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours. Once the effects kick in, they tend to last much longer—typically 4-8 hours.
- Precise dosing: With a variety of products available in dispensaries, it’s easy to find edibles with precise THC amounts, letting you manage your experience and avoid overconsumption.
- Variety: Edibles have been around longer than THC drinks, so there’s a wider variety of products available on the market.
- Options for absorption: Swallowed edibles go through the digestive system (slower effects), while sublingual options like tinctures or lozenges are absorbed in the mouth (faster onset).
THC Drinks vs Edibles: So Which is Best for You
Whether THC drinks or edibles are better for you depends on your personal preferences. If you want a quick onset of effects and a shorter high, then THC drinks are for you. If you don’t mind waiting, and would prefer a longer experience, then marijuana edibles are a better choice. Neither is better than the other, although THC drinks can be a good option for people with dietary restrictions or food allergies.
FAQs About THC drinks vs Edibles
Below are the answers to some frequently asked questions to help you compare THC drinks and edibles.
Which lasts longer: THC drinks or edibles?
Edibles last longer because they are processed differently by the body, being broken down in the digestive system and then metabolized in the liver. The effects of a THC drink can begin at first sip, but they may only last about 1-3 hours.
Can you build tolerance to THC drinks?
Yes, depending on how frequently you consume THC drinks, you may build a tolerance to their effects. This is true of any cannabis product you have regularly.
Are THC drinks more expensive than edibles?
Yes, THC drinks tend to be more expensive than edibles because of the demand for them in the cannabis marketplace.9 But as more THC drink options hit dispensary shelves, that price could fall.
Do THC drinks have less calories than edibles?
It depends on the type of edible and THC drink you're comparing. For example, a THC gummy typically contains about 20 calories,10 while a cannabis brownie can have around 240 calories.11 Among five different THC drink brands, calorie counts ranged from as low as 16 to as high as 150.12 Always check nutrition labels if you’re looking for a low-calorie option.
How do you store THC drinks vs edibles?
Both THC drinks and edibles need to be kept away from air, heat, and light. Just like other beverages, your fridge is the best place to store THC drinks, as they need to be in a cool, dark environment.13
Understanding Edibles & THC Drinks
Whether you prefer the quick-acting effects of THC drinks or the long-lasting high of edibles, both offer unique ways to enjoy cannabis. But quality always matters, so buy from a trusted source. Visit your local LivWell dispensary to explore a wide selection of THC drinks and edibles, get expert recommendations from our budtenders, and find the perfect product for you.
Sources:
1. “Weed Drinks Are a Buzzy Alcohol Substitute. But Are They Safe?” The New York Times, August 24, 2022, https://www.nytimes.com/2022/08/19/well/eat/weed-cannabis-drinks.html
2. “ I tried a cannabis-infused tonic. It left me bubbly, sociable, and in a pleasant haze.” Business Insider, July 2, 2021, https://www.businessinsider.com/i-tried-a-cannabis-infused-tonic-felt-buzzed-sociable-2021-7
3. “The Best THC Tea Drinks to Sip on in 2024 (A Guide)” MetaBrand, May 8, 2024, https://metabrandcorp.com/thc-tea-drinks/
4. “Seven Easy Ways to Add Cannabis to Coffee,” Westword, November 7, 2023, https://www.westword.com/marijuana/easy-cannabis-coffee-recipes-12866632
5. “How To Make Cannabis-Infused Drinks & Mocktails At Home,” Herb, June 25, 2024, https://herb.co/learn/cannabis-infused-drink-recipes-at-home
6. “What Is THC Powder (And How To Make It)” Veriheal, August 27, 2024, https://www.veriheal.com/blog/what-is-thc-powder-and-how-to-make-it/
7. “THC Drinks vs Edibles: High and Effects Compared,” Pabst Labs, January 25, 2023, https://www.pabstlabs.com/blogs/news/thc-drinks-vs-edibles-high-and-effects-compared
8. “Cannabis drinks: How do they compare to alcohol?” Harvard Health Publishing, July 15, 2024, https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/cannabis-drinks-how-do-they-compare-to-alcohol-202407153058
9. “THC Drinks vs Edibles: Which One’s Right for You?” MetaBrand, May 29, 2024, https://metabrandcorp.com/thc-drinks-vs-edibles/
10. “Does Weed Have Calories?” Leafwell, October 7, 2024, https://leafwell.com/blog/does-weed-have-calories
11. “Easy Weed Brownies Recipe,” Emily Kyle Nutrition, December 9, 2024, https://emilykylenutrition.com/cannabis-brownies/
12. “Weed drinks have gotten so much better. Here are 5 worth trying,” LA Times, August 3, 2023, https://www.latimes.com/lifestyle/story/2023-08-03/best-weed-drinks-for-summer
13. “How Long Do THC-Infused Drinks Last? [Shelf Life & Storage]” Natural Ways CBD, July 11, 2024, https://www.naturalwayscbd.com/blog/how-long-thc-infused-drinks-last/
Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.
If you’ve learned about the different types of concentrates, then you probably know shatter—it’s one of the most popular concentrates on dispensary shelves. But did you know there’s more than one kind of shatter on the market today? For your dabbing pleasure, we’ll provide the answers to all your questions and more in this guide to cured resin shatter and live resin shatter.
What is Shatter?
Shatter is a cannabis concentrate named for its glass-like appearance and brittle consistency. It’s amber-colored, translucent, and “shatters” into shards when broken apart, like a colored window pane. It’s typically smoked with a dab rig, but it can also be vaped with a dab pen or added to joints and bowls for an infused experience. Shatter is known for its immensely high THC content, with levels around 80-90%.1
Shatter is a form of butane hash oil (BHO), made through a solvent-based extraction process that uses butane, a highly flammable gas. The safe manufacture of shatter requires expertise and specialized equipment. Therefore, it should ONLY be done by experienced, licensed professionals in a qualified facility.2
What is Cured Resin Shatter?
Cured resin shatter is a cannabis concentrate made from cannabis plant material that has been dried and “cured,” meaning the harvested buds have been matured in a carefully controlled environment for several weeks.3 Curing helps preserve (and some say enhance) the plant’s full flavors and aromas by retaining a broad range of terpenes.4 The cured marijuana plant is then put through the same solvent-based extraction process, creating cured resin shatter.
What is Live Resin Shatter?
Live resin shatter is a cannabis concentrate made from cannabis plant material that has been flash frozen immediately after harvest, conserving cannabinoids and terpenes at the peak of freshness. This frozen material is then processed into shatter. Live resin has a smaller range of terpenes than cured resin, but it contains more terpenes overall.5
Shatter Production Methods
The key difference between the two types of shatter mentioned above is the starting material—cured or flash-frozen cannabis flower—while the production process remains the same.
To make shatter, cannabis flower, shake, or trim is packed into a pressurized tube, and liquid butane is passed through it, extracting desirable cannabinoids like THC and CBD from the plant material. The resulting oil is spread into a thin layer and purified in a low-temperature vacuum oven, which burns away any residual solvents. The final product is a translucent, glass-like concentrate—shatter.2
Depending on the solvent used, sometimes the extracted oil requires winterization, a process in which it’s mixed with ethanol and then chilled to remove waxes and fats. The ethanol is then filtered out, leaving behind a refined shatter with its characteristic clarity and texture.6
Live Resin Shatter Production
Live resin shatter is made from cannabis plant matter that was flash-frozen at harvest to protect the delicate trichomes. Some say this helps preserve a higher amount of the plant’s natural terpenes and cannabinoids, resulting in a more aromatic, flavorful concentrate.5
Cured Resin Shatter Production
Cured resin shatter is more stable, glassy, and brittle, making it easier to break apart and handle than its live resin counterpart. The rich, diverse terpene profile creates an enhanced flavor complexity, but cured resin shatter may have a less pronounced entourage effect in comparison to live resin shatter.5 But the curing process does lend cured resin shatter a smooth, flavorful smoke with no harsh inhale.4
Shatter Potency and Cannabinoid Profile
Shatter can have some variations in texture, taste, and overall effect based on how it was made and what was used to make it.2
Live Resin Shatter Characteristics
Often slightly softer and more pliable due to the retained cannabinoids and terpenes, live resin shatter is less prone to cracking apart like cured resin shatter. It’s a fresh, flavorful, and full-spectrum experience, thanks to those terpenes and cannabinoids that were captured from trichomes at the height of their bloom.5 You may need to use lower temperatures to enjoy live resin shatter because of its delicate terpenes.
Cured Resin Shatter Characteristics
Cured resin shatter is more stable, glassy, and brittle, making it easier to break apart and handle than its live resin counterpart. The rich, diverse terpene profile creates an enhanced flavor complexity, but cured resin shatter may have a less pronounced entourage effect in comparison to live resin shatter.5 But the curing process does lend cured resin shatter a smooth, flavorful smoke with no harsh inhale.4
Consumption Methods
Both cured resin shatter and live resin shatter can be consumed using similar methods, but the experience may vary due to differences in their terpene content and consistency. Here are the ways you can consume them:
Dabbing
Dabbing is the most common way to enjoy concentrates. To dab either type of shatter with a dab rig, simply heat your nail, place a small amount of product inside, and inhale. You may notice that live resin shatter offers a more terpene-rich experience, while cured resin shatter delivers a cleaner, sharper hit. The terpenes in cured resin shatter are more stable, so you can use a higher temperature than you would with live resin shatter.6
Vaporizers
Dab pens offer a portable and convenient way to vape shatter on-the-go with controlled temperature settings. Use a dab pen designed for solid concentrates for best results.
Twaxing
You can use shatter to enhance your traditional smoke session by crumbling small pieces of it into ground cannabis flower in a joint, blunt, or bowl. However, twaxing with shatter can be slightly tricky, as you’ll first need to lightly heat the concentrate to make it malleable.7 But if you prefer smoking over dabbing and vaping, then twaxing is a great way to incorporate concentrates.
Infusing Edibles
Infusing concentrates into your favorite edible treats can deepen the experience. You’ll have to carefully heat shatter beforehand to decarboxylate it. Once that’s done, you can add it to cooking oils or butter and bake to your heart’s content.8 Cured resin shatter is often the better choice for cooking due to its stable profile, while the delicate terpenes in live resin shatter can be overshadowed or lost in the cooking process.
Pros and Cons: Cured Resin Shatter vs Live Resin Shatter
Choosing between cured resin shatter and live resin shatter depends on your priorities. Below, we break down the pros and cons of each to help you decide which best suits your preferences.
Live Resin Shatter Pros and Cons
If you prioritize flavor and the entourage effect, live resin shatter is a great choice.
Pros:
- Fresher, more vibrant terpene profile
- Stronger aroma and flavor due to flash-frozen extraction
- Often provides a more potent entourage effect
- Generally easier to find and lower in cost than cured resin5,9
Cons:
- Less stable texture, may be more prone to softening
- Some loss of terpene complexity
- Can be less shelf-stable than cured resin5,9
Cured Resin Shatter Pros and Cons
For a stable, long-lasting concentrate with a traditional shatter texture, cured resin shatter may be the better option.
Pros:
- More stable texture, maintaining traditional glassy shatter consistency
- Deeper, more refined flavor due to the curing process
- Better preservation of certain terpenes, leading to a well-rounded taste5,9
Cons:
- Higher production costs, often making it more expensive
- Less availability compared to live resin shatter
- Some terpene loss due to drying and curing5,9
Frequently Asked Questions About Different Shatter Types
Navigating the different types of shatter can be tricky; below are answers to some of the most common questions we get on shatter.
What makes cured resin shatter different?
Cured resin shatter is different from other forms of shatter in its starting material, terpene content, and sharp, brittle texture.
Is cured resin shatter more potent?
Not really. If you prefer pure THC intensity, opt for cured resin shatter, but if you want a more flavorful and full-spectrum experience, then live resin shatter is the way to go. Live resin shatter may actually feel stronger because terpenes modify and amplify its effect, even if its THC percentage is slightly lower.
How are these concentrates produced?
Both cured resin and live resin shatter are produced the same way, using a solvent-based extraction process. The difference is what material is used at the start of the process. Live resin uses fresh marijuana that has been flash-frozen, while cured resin uses dried and cured marijuana.
How do consumption methods differ?
You can consume either type of shatter with a dab rig or dab pen, or by infusing joints, bowls, or edibles. However, cured resin shatter can handle higher temperatures because of its stable terpenes.6
Are there flavor differences?
Yes, there are distinct flavor differences between cured resin shatter and live resin shatter due to differences in how they are processed and how terpenes are retained. Live resin shatter has a fresher, more vibrant flavor due to the flash-frozen process that preserves the plant’s natural terpene profile. In contrast, cured resin shatter develops a richer, more complex taste as the curing process alters and refines its terpenes. Ultimately, live resin shatter is best for those who prefer fresh, bold flavors, while cured resin shatter appeals to those who enjoy a more refined and developed taste.5
How do I store these concentrates?
Store any type of shatter in an airtight glass or silicone container in a cool, dark place to prevent degradation from air, heat, and light.10
Learning About Shatter & Cured Resin Shatter
Now that you know more about the differences between cured resin and live resin shatter, your choice may be obvious. But our budtenders are always standing by to help you find the perfect concentrate for your needs.
Sources:
1. “Shatter,” Leafly, https://www.leafly.com/learn/cannabis-glossary/shatter
2. “How Shatter is Made,” Weedmaps, June 18, 2021, https://weedmaps.com/learn/products-and-how-to-consume/how-shatter-is-made
3. “Cure,” Leafly, https://www.leafly.com/learn/cannabis-glossary/cure
4. “Processing and extraction methods of medicinal cannabis: a narrative review,” Journal of Cannabis Research, July 19, 2021, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8290527/
5. “Cured Resin vs Live Resin: Everything You Need to Know,” NuggMD, June 25, 2024, https://www.nuggmd.com/blog/cured-resin-vs-live-resin
6. “Best dabbing temperatures,” Leafly, May 9, 2024, https://www.leafly.com/learn/consume/dabs/best-dabbing-temperatures
7. “What is twaxing?” CannaConnection, August 13, 2020, https://www.cannaconnection.com/blog/18515-what-is-twaxing
8. “How to make edibles with concentrates and dabs,” Leafly, May 9, 2024, https://www.leafly.com/learn/consume/edibles/how-to-make-edibles-cannabis-concentrates
9. “Freeze Drying vs. Cold Curing Cannabis: Revolutionizing Drying Methods,” Veriheal, August 31, 2023, https://www.veriheal.com/blog/freeze-drying-vs-cold-curing-cannabis-revolutionizing-drying-methods/
10. “How To Properly Store Cannabis Concentrates,” High Times, April 12, 2018, https://hightimes.com/guides/how-to-properly-store-cannabis-concentrates/
Use of Marijuana Concentrate may lead to: Psychotic symptoms and/or Psychotic disorder (delusions, hallucinations, or difficulty distinguishing reality); Mental Health Symptoms/Problems; Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) (uncontrolled and repetitive vomiting); Cannabis use disorder/dependence, including physical and psychological dependence. Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.
