THC Vapes: What Are Your Options?
February 11, 2025
Vaping is a popular way to consume marijuana thanks to its convenience and versatility. Whether you’re looking for a sleek THC vape pen, a dry herb vaporizer, or a dab rig, there’s a vaping device for you. In this guide, you’ll learn everything about THC vapes, including how they work, the different types, and tips for choosing the best vaporizer.
What is a THC Vape?
A THC vape, also called a vape cartridge or vape pen, is a sleek, portable device that vaporizes cannabis products like THC distillate or concentrates. These devices typically feature a small chamber or cartridge filled with cannabis oil, a battery heater, and a mouthpiece for inhaling the vapor. Vape pens are discreet and easy to use, making them a favorite among cannabis enthusiasts.1
Unlike smoking a joint, blunt, or bong, which burns cannabis,2 vaping uses lower temperatures to transform cannabinoids and terpenes into a smooth, inhalable vapor. This preserves flavor and potency while reducing harsh byproducts. Over the years, vaping technology has evolved, offering everything from simple pens to advanced rigs designed for dry herb or concentrates, making it one of the most versatile ways to enjoy cannabis.3
How Do Vaporizers Work?
Vaporizers use heat to release cannabinoids and terpenes from cannabis flower or concentrates, creating vapor you inhale. Here’s a breakdown of how they work:4
- Cannabis products you can vape: A marijuana vape is versatile and works with various products, including flower, oil, and concentrates.
- Conduction vs convection: Vaporizers heat cannabis using one of two methods: conduction (involving direct exposure to a heating element) or convection (involving exposure to a flow of hot air).5 Some models combine both methods for more balanced heating and better flavor.
- Temperature precision: Vaporizers let you control the heat, activating cannabinoids and terpenes at specific temperatures. This precision enhances flavor, potency, and the overall experience by preserving the cannabis compounds.
- Vapor production: As the cannabis heats up, cannabinoids and terpenes turn into a smooth, inhalable vapor. This process eliminates combustion, giving you a cleaner, more flavorful experience.
Types of Marijuana Vaporizers
Vaporizers come in various styles, each catering to different preferences and cannabis products.
Vape Pens
Marijuana vape pens are slim, portable devices designed for vaping THC distillate or liquid concentrates like live resin. They are available in two main types:6
- All-in-one pens: These disposable devices, also known as AIO vapes, are pre-filled with a built-in battery—perfect for beginners or those who want a hassle-free experience.
- Cartridges and batteries: Reusable pens require a separate battery and vape cartridges, which are replaceable and often more cost-effective in the long run.
Pros:
- Portable and discreet: Easy to carry and use on the go.7
- User-friendly: Ideal for beginner cannabis consumers, requiring only minimal setup.
Cons:
- Limited to oils and concentrates: Not compatible with flower.
- Less powerful: May lack the intensity of other vaping methods.
Dry Herb Vaporizers
Dry herb vaporizers are designed to heat cannabis flower without combustion, preserving flavor and potency. They come in two main types:8
- Portable or handheld devices: Compact and convenient, perfect for on-the-go use.
- Desktop or tabletop vaporizers: Larger, stationary units, ideal for at-home sessions.
Pros:
- Versatile: Lets you use whole cannabis flower directly.
- Flavorful: Produces vapor that highlights the natural terpenes.
Cons
- Requires maintenance: Needs regular cleaning to stay effective.
- Less portable (desktop models): Not as discreet as vape pens.
Dab Rigs and Dab Pens
Dab rigs and dab pens are used to flash vaporize (at hot temperatures of 400-600°F or 204-315°C) cannabis concentrates (called dabs) like shatter, crumble, or budder.9 This is called dabbing. These devices come in three main types:
- Dab pens: Portable, pen-shaped devices, dab pens are designed specifically for vaping dabs and concentrates.
- Dab rigs: Traditional glass setups require a butane torch for heating.
- E-rigs: Electronic dab rigs offer precise temperature control.10
Pros:
- Highly potent: Perfect for experienced cannabis enthusiasts.
- Flavorful and efficient: Maximizes the experience with concentrates.11
Cons:
- Not beginner-friendly: Requires more setup and knowledge.
- Higher cost: E-rigs and glass rigs can be expensive.
What Is Already-Vaped Bud (AVB)?
Already-vaped bud (AVB) is the byproduct left after vaping cannabis flower. Because you didn’t burn flower, it didn’t turn to ash. The potency depends on your vaporizer’s temperature settings. Flower vaped with hot air at 315-440°F (157-226°C) can still be strong, so why not use it twice? While it’s less potent, AVB contains cannabinoids and can be repurposed in edibles, capsules, tinctures, or topicals.12
How to Choose a Vaporizer
When picking the perfect THC vape, consider these factors:
Product Compatibility
When choosing a vaporizer, match the device with the type of cannabis product you plan to use. Here’s how to pick the right one:
- Concentrates: A dab pen, dab rig, or e-rig works best for vaporizing concentrates like wax, shatter, or THC distillate.
- Flower: A dry herb vaporizer is perfect for using whole cannabis flower. These vaporizers heat flower evenly, preserving its natural flavors and terpenes.
- THC oil: A vape pen is the ideal choice for THC oil. These devices are designed to handle liquid cannabis products.
Experience With Cannabis
Your experience level matters when picking a vaporizer. Disposable vape pens are beginner-friendly, require no setup, and offer simplicity. Dabbing, on the other hand, is better suited for experienced users because it requires tools and knowledge. If you prefer flower, a dry herb vaporizer is a great choice.
Required Maintenance
Maintenance varies depending on the vaporizer. Vape pens require little to no upkeep, making them a low-maintenance option. In contrast, you must regularly clean dab rigs, dab pens, and dry herb vaporizers to prevent residue buildup and ensure optimal performance. Taking care of your device extends its lifespan and improves the overall experience.
FAQs About Cannabis Vaporizers
Got questions about cannabis vaporizers? Let’s break down some common queries.
How are smoke and vapor different?
Smoke is a byproduct of combustion, the chemical reaction that occurs when you put a flame to your cannabis flower. Vapor is a byproduct of vaporization, the chemical process that turns a solid or liquid into a gas. Research suggests that vapor contains fewer carcinogenic compounds than smoke because of the lower temperature required, making it less harmful to our lungs and overall health.13
What's the difference between conduction and convection?
Conduction heats cannabis through direct contact with a heated surface, while convection uses hot air to vaporize it. Convection heats more evenly and preserves flavor, while conduction heats faster.13
How much do vaporizers cost?
Prices vary widely, from $10 for a disposable vape to $1,000 or more for a high-end dab rig.
Are dry herb vapes stronger than dabs?
The concentrates used in dabbing are often significantly more potent than the cannabis flower you’d use in a dry herb vaporizer. However, you can infuse your flower with kief or concentrates for a stronger effect. You’ll just need to make sure your dry herb vaporizer is capable of handling concentrates (only some models on the market are) and that you thoroughly clean your dry herb vape after every session.14
Choosing the Right Vaporizer
The right vaporizer depends on your preferences, experience, and needs. Choose between the simplicity of a vape pen, the versatility of a dry herb vaporizer, or the potency of dabbing. Visit your local LivWell dispensary to explore your options and find your perfect match!
Sources:
1. “What is cannabis vaping and how does it work?” Leafly, May 9, 2024, https://www.leafly.com/learn/consume/what-is-cannabis-vaping
2. “Combustion,” Leafly, https://www.leafly.com/learn/cannabis-glossary/combustion
3. “Vaporization,” Leafly, https://www.leafly.com/learn/cannabis-glossary/vaporization
4. “Dab Pen vs. Vape Pen: What’s the Difference?” Leafwell, October 7, 2024, https://leafwell.com/blog/dab-pen-vs-vape-pen
5. “Conduction vs. convection vaporizers – a comparison,” VapeFully, January 18, 2024, https://vapefully.com/for-beginners/conduction-vs-convection-vaporizers/
6. “Vape pen,” Leafly, https://www.leafly.com/learn/cannabis-glossary/vape-pen
7. “Weed vape pen,” Weedmaps, https://weedmaps.com/learn/dictionary/vape-pen
8. “What Is a Dry Herb Vaporizer?” Leafwell, October 7, 2024, https://leafwell.com/blog/what-is-a-dry-herb-vaporizer
9. “What is dabbing?” Leafly, May 9, 2024, https://www.leafly.com/learn/consume/dabs
10. “What is an e-rig or e-nail?” Leafly, May 9, 2024, https://www.leafly.com/learn/consume/dabs/enails-erigs-for-dabs
11. “Dabbing,” Leafly, https://www.leafly.com/learn/cannabis-glossary/dabbing
12. “Recycling vaporized cannabis: 10 ways to use AVB (‘already vaped bud’),” Leafly, September 26, 2022, https://www.leafly.com/news/cannabis
13. “The Difference Between Cannabis Combustion and Vaporization, Explained,” Weedmaps, May 2, 2019, https://weedmaps.com/news/2019/05/the-difference-between-cannabis-combustion-and-vaporization-explained/
14. “Can You Put Concentrate in a Dry Herb Vape?” Furna, January 24, 2022, https://getfurna.com/blogs/vaporizers/put-concentrates-in-dry-herb-vape
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.
Related posts
Have you ever noticed that fine, golden powder collecting at the bottom of your grinder? That’s kief, one of the most potent and versatile parts of the cannabis plant. Packed with terpenes and cannabinoids, kief is a concentrate that can take your cannabis consumption to the next level. The possibilities are endless, from sprinkling it on flower to making moon rocks. In this guide, you’ll learn what kief is, what to do with kief, and why it’s so popular.
What is Kief?
Kief is a fine, powdery concentrate that comes from the trichome heads of cannabis flowers. These resin glands are where cannabis plants store most of their terpenes, cannabinoids, and other flavorful compounds. When trichomes are separated from the plant, they form kief, which is often referred to as THC sand for its potent effects and golden, yellowish-green, or green-brown color.1
Kief is highly fragrant since it’s packed with cannabinoids. It is also incredibly potent with up to 50% THC–far more than regular flower. Its loose texture makes it versatile for smoking, cooking, or pressing into hash.
How Is Kief Different From Hash?
If you’ve heard of kief and hash, you might wonder what sets them apart. These two cannabis concentrates are closely related, but their form and how they’re used make all the difference.2
Here’s how kief and hash differ:
- Kief is loose, powdery, and easy to collect in grinders with a kief catcher. It’s lighter in texture and typically used as an additive to enhance flower or edibles. While kief is potent on its own, it’s best combined with other cannabis products for a boosted experience.
- Hash (the casual term for hashish) is made by compressing kief using heat and pressure, resulting in dense bricks, chunks, or balls. Its compact form makes it more versatile for standalone use, whether smoked, dabbed, or vaporized. Hash also tends to have a stronger aroma and flavor than loose kief.
How Do You Extract Kief?
Kief is one of the easiest concentrates to extract, and if you’ve been using a grinder, you probably already have some! But you can also buy kief at your local LivWell dispensary. Whether you’re looking for small or large quantities, here are the best methods for extracting kief:
Kief Catcher
The easiest way to collect kief is using a grinder with a built-in kief catcher, which separates the fine powder from cannabis flower. There are two popular grinder options to catch kief:
- Two-chamber grinders: These grinders collect some kief, but their limited design often results in storing smaller amounts.
- Four-chamber grinders: Equipped with a fine screen, these grinders are designed to sift kief into a separate compartment, allowing you to collect more over time.
Although this method requires patience to build up a stash, it’s low-effort and ideal for casual cannabis enthusiasts who don’t need large quantities at once.
Kief Box
If you want to extract large quantities of kief, a kief box is the way to go. These boxes feature two chambers: one for sifting and one for collecting. Simply add flower, close the box, and shake to separate the kief from the buds. All of the kief will fall into the collection chamber.3
Grinder Coin
Placing a clean, small coin in your grinder’s chamber can help dislodge more trichomes, pushing them toward the kief catcher. Just ensure the coin fits with room to spare so the coin can move around to dislodge the kief and keep it clean for the best results. If you have a micro-grinder, use a dime or nickel; if it’s bigger, use a quarter.4 We also recommend keeping a dedicated coin to help you harvest kief from flower.
How to Use Kief
Kief is one of the most versatile and easy-to-use cannabis concentrates, perfect for enhancing your sessions or trying something new.
Add to Flower
Here’s how you can add kief to flower:
- Crown your bowl: Fill your pipe or bong’s bowl about a quarter of the way with flower, sprinkle some kief, and layer it with more flower and kief. This layering is key, since it helps the kief burn evenly without wasting it.
- Twaxing: Coat your joint or blunt with kief by licking the paper and adding kief to the end, inside, or outside for a more potent smoking experience.
- Make moon rocks: Create these potent nuggets by dipping buds in concentrate (like hash oil) and rolling them in kief. Break up the moon rocks to smoke in a joint, add to a bowl or pipe, or even vape them.
Make Edibles
Kief’s lack of plant matter makes it perfect for edibles, as it results in less of a marijuana taste. However, you must decarboxylate it first to activate the THC. Add it to infused recipes for a potent treat, but be careful how much you use since it’s much stronger than flower.5
Press into Hash
Want to make your own hash? All you need is kief, parchment paper, and a little heat:
- Place kief between folded parchment paper.
- Use a hair straightener to apply heat and pressure for a few seconds.
- Let it cool, and enjoy your homemade hash.
FAQs About Kief
Want to know more about kief, like “how to smoke kief”? These frequently asked questions will clear up everything you need to know.
Do I have to buy kief?
While you can buy kief at your local dispensary, you can collect kief by using your grinder.
Can you dab kief?
Dabbing kief isn’t recommended because it won’t burn evenly.
Is kief illegal?
Kief is typically legal in areas where cannabis is legal, but always check your local laws to be sure.
How strong is kief?
Kief is highly potent, with THC levels around 50%.
Can you eat kief?
You can eat kief, but it needs to be decarboxylated first to activate the THC. Without decarbing, it won’t have any psychoactive effects, but it may still have therapeutic benefits.
Purchasing Kief
Kief is a versatile and potent cannabis product that can elevate your experience in countless ways. Whether sprinkling it on flower, making edibles, or pressing it into hash, kief unlocks a world of possibilities. Visit your local LivWell dispensary to learn more, or stock up on high-quality kief today.
Sources:
1. “Kief,” Leafly, https://www.leafly.com/learn/cannabis-glossary/kief
2. “Kief vs. Hash - What’s the Difference and How Can They Be Used?” Veriheal, April 19, 2022, https://www.veriheal.com/blog/concentrates/kief-vs-hash/
3. “What is kief and how to use it?” Weedmaps, https://weedmaps.com/learn/products-and-how-to-consume/how-to-smoke-kief
4. “What’s a ‘Grinder Coin,’ and How Does It Affect Your Kief Collection?” Leafly, September 27, 2021, https://www.leafly.com/news/cannabis-101/what-is-a-grinder-coin-for-kief-collection
5. “What Is Kief, and Should You Use It?” Leafwell, October 7, 2024, https://leafwell.com/blog/what-is-kief-and-should-you-use-it
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.
Have you ever tried breaking up cannabis flower by hand? It’s messy, uneven, and let’s face it—kind of a buzzkill. The marijuana grinder is your answer and the unsung hero of the cannabis world. This simple tool makes prepping your flower a breeze, giving you a smoother, more enjoyable experience every time. In this guide, we’ll break down what is a grinder, how to use it, and why it’s a must-have for any cannabis enthusiast.
What Is a Grinder?
A grinder is a tool that breaks up cannabis flower into smaller, more manageable pieces. It’s been a staple for cannabis enthusiasts for decades, and first became popular in the 1960s.1 Since then, grinders have evolved from simple homemade devices to sophisticated, multi-chamber products.
Using a grinder offers several benefits you can’t get by breaking up flower by hand. It ensures an even burn, improves the flavor, and makes it easier to roll joints or pack bowls. Plus, grinders can collect kief, the precious trichomes that fall off the flower during grinding. This powdery substance is packed with potency and can be used to enhance your smoking sessions.2
What are the Benefits of Using a Grinder?
Grinders come in two main categories, each offering unique benefits:
- Manual grinders: These classic options require you to twist the top by hand to grind your cannabis. They’re affordable, portable, and great if you prefer a no-frills approach.
- Automatic grinders: These battery-powered tools do the hard work for you. Just load your flower, press a button, and let the grinder do the rest—perfect for quick, hassle-free sessions.
Grinders also differ in design based on how many parts they include:
- Two-piece grinders are simple and compact. They grind your cannabis without storing or separating it.
- Three-piece grinders have a storage compartment for ground flower, offering extra convenience.
- Four-piece grinders include a kief catcher, so you can collect and save those precious trichomes.
- Five-piece grinders feature additional layers and finer mesh screens to separate kief into different grades for ultimate efficiency.
What Are the Different Parts of a Marijuana Grinder?
Grinders vary in complexity, but they all share essential parts that work together to deliver a consistent grind.
Lid & Teeth
The lid holds the cannabis flower in place while the sharp, strategically placed teeth break it apart into even, consistent pieces. This ensures your cannabis burns smoothly and evenly. High-quality grinders feature durable teeth that resist wear and tear, making them essential for efficient and hassle-free grinding. Without sharp teeth, you’d end up with uneven chunks, which can impact the overall smoking experience.3
Mesh Screen
The mesh screen sifts and separates kief—the fine, powdery trichomes—from the ground flower, allowing you to collect this potent substance for later use. This feature ensures that no part of your cannabis goes to waste. High-quality screens are designed to filter out only the finest kief, leaving larger particles behind, which is perfect for maximizing your collection without affecting your grind.
Kief Collector
Not all grinders come with a kief collector, but it’s a game-changer for those that do. Four-piece grinders typically include one, allowing you to collect and store the highly concentrated kief. For enthusiasts who love extra precision, five-piece grinders may even feature dual collectors, making separating kief into different grades easier. It’s the ultimate perk if you like to make every bit of your flower count.
Storage Chamber
The storage chamber keeps your ground flower fresh, organized, and ready to use whenever you are. This compartment is convenient if you want to grind now and store your flower for later. High-end grinders may feature multiple storage chambers, offering space for different strains or grind levels, giving you extra versatility and convenience.
How To Use a Cannabis Grinder [3 Steps]
Using a grinder is simple, especially with a bit of practice. Here’s a step-by-step guide for manual grinders (since automatic grinders are super easy to use):4
Step 1: Break Up Flower by Hand
Before grinding, break the flower into smaller chunks using your fingers or scissors. This prevents overloading the grinder, ensures an even grind, and protects the grinder’s teeth from unnecessary strain.
Step 2: Place Flower in Grinder
Evenly distribute the flower between the grinder’s teeth, ensuring it’s not tightly packed. This allows the teeth to rotate freely and achieve a consistent grind. Avoid overfilling the grinder, as this can make it harder to twist and may result in uneven pieces.5
Step 3: Replace the Lid & Grind
Secure the lid tightly to avoid spills, then twist it back and forth several times. The teeth will shred the flower into smaller, uniform pieces as you grind. Keep twisting until the motion feels smooth and the flower reaches your desired consistency. Over-grinding can make the flower too fine, so check periodically to ensure the perfect texture for your preferred method of cannabis consumption.
Step 4: Tap & Open
After grinding, tap the sides of the grinder lightly to loosen any flower stuck between the teeth or in the chambers. This ensures you get every last bit of your ground cannabis without waste. Once tapped, carefully open the grinder to access your perfectly ground flower, which is now ready to roll, pack, or vape.
Optional Step: Collect Kief
If your grinder has a kief catcher, open the compartment and scoop out the kief using a small tool or scraper. This fine powder, rich in cannabinoids and terpenes, can be sprinkled onto joints, bowls, or edibles.
Your flower is not ready for consumption! You likely won’t use all of it in one session, so make sure to store your flower properly so you can enjoy it later.
Marijuana Grinder FAQs
Got questions about marijuana grinders? Here are some answers to common queries:
What is the point of a marijuana grinder?
A marijuana grinder ensures a consistent grind, promotes an even burn, enhances flavor and potency, and improves your smoking or vaping experience.
Can I use a coffee grinder on my flower?
You can use a coffee grinder for cannabis flower. However, a marijuana grinder is more efficient and less likely to damage your flower.6
Do I need a kief coin?
Some cannabis enthusiasts like to place a clean coin—a dime, nickel, or quarter, depending on grinder size—in the mesh screen compartment of their grinder. This coin, known as a kief coin or grinder coin, encourages separation of trichomes from ground flower and presses the kief through the mesh screen and into the kief catcher.7 You don’t necessarily need a kief coin, but it can help collect more kief.
How long should I grind flower for?
It depends on how you plan to use that flower. You’ll want a finer grind for rolling joints and packing dry herb vaporizers. A coarse grind works better in blunts, pipes, and one-hitters (too fine a grind and you risk bits of flower falling through the mouth piece or bowl).8 Grinding flower for making edibles at home can be a process of trial and error until you find your preferred consistency. The overall consensus is to treat flower like you would any other fresh herb in your kitchen, achieving a medium-coarse grind for the best taste and texture.9 You’ll just need to decarboxylate it first.
Purchasing a Marijuana Grinder
Ready to upgrade your cannabis experience? A marijuana grinder can make all the difference. Visit your local LivWell dispensary to explore your options and find the perfect grinder. And chat with your budtender if you need personalized advice.
Sources
1. “What is a weed grinder and how does it work?” Weedmaps, https://weedmaps.com/learn/products-and-how-to-consume/what-is-a-grinder
2. “Here’s why you should use a weed grinder,” CannaConnection, June 18, 2020, https://www.cannaconnection.com/blog/11426-why-use-weed-grinder
3. “Parts Of Grinders & How To Use A Weed Grinder,” Herb, January 10, 2024, https://herb.co/learn/breaking-down-a-grinder-whats-the-role-of-each-compartment
4. “What Is A Weed Grinder: How To Use It Step By Step,” Herb, September 3, 2024, https://herb.co/guides/3-piece-or-4-piece-what-grinder-is-best-for-you
5. “How to grind cannabis - with or without a grinder,” The Cannigma, https://cannigma.com/how-to/how-to-grind-cannabis-with-or-without-a-grinder/
6. “How to Grind Weed Without a Grinder,” High Times, December 10, 2019, https://hightimes.com/guides/how-grind-weed-without-grinder/
7. “What’s a ‘Grinder Coin,’ and How Does It Affect Your Kief Collection?” Leafly, September 27, 2021, https://www.leafly.com/news/cannabis-101/what-is-a-grinder-coin-for-kief-collection
8. “How to Grind Weed: A Comprehensive Guide to Grinders, Tips & Techniques,” MunchMakers, December 30, 2024, https://www.munchmakers.com/grinder-guides/master-the-art-of-grinding-weed-for-optimal-enjoyment/
9. “Top 10 Mistakes When Cooking With Cannabis (And How To Avoid Them),” Zamnesia, February 4, 2021, https://www.zamnesia.com/blog-top-10-mistakes-when-cooking-with-cannabis-n2185
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.
Popcorn flower might not have the flashy appeal of premium marijuana buds, but you shouldn’t underestimate its potential. These smaller, more affordable cannabis nuggets are perfect for budget-conscious cannabis enthusiasts. Let’s dive into what popcorn flower is, where it comes from, and how you can make the most of it.
What is Popcorn Flower?
Popcorn flower, also known as popcorn buds, larf cannabis, or smalls, gets its name from its size—it resembles popped kernels of popcorn. These smaller, lighter, and fluffier nugs are typically sold as B-grade cannabis, a step below premium flower in terms of aesthetics and potency. However, they come from the same strains as higher-grade buds, offering comparable effects at a more affordable price.1
Despite their reduced bag appeal, popcorn buds still offer a great value. They may be slightly less potent than premium flower because they grow further away from the sunlight on the plant’s lower branches. But you can still have a satisfying cannabis experience when you consume popcorn.2
For those comparing options, popcorn flower is distinct from marijuana shake, which consists of loose trichomes, stems, and plant bits, and premium flower, known for its A-grade nugs, perfect appearance, and higher price tag.
Where Does Popcorn Flower Come From?
Popcorn buds grow closer to the stem of the cannabis plant, usually on the lower branches. These buds don’t receive as much light or nutrients as the top colas (or densely packed premium flower), so they’re less mature and more fluffy in texture. This natural placement makes them smaller and less dense than premium buds.3
What Can You Do With Popcorn Flower?
Popcorn flower is a budget-friendly option that’s perfect for getting creative with your cannabis consumption. Here are three popular ways to use it:
Smoke
Even though popcorn buds are smaller, they’re just as easy to smoke as premium flower. Simply grind them and load them into your favorite device—a bong, pipe, one-hitter, or roll them into a joint. While they might not have the same visual appeal as larger buds, popcorn flower still delivers a smooth and satisfying experience. Plus, their smaller size makes them easier to break down, so they’re super convenient for quick sessions or on-the-go consumption. Whether you’re lighting up solo or sharing with friends, popcorn flower offers great value without compromising on quality.
Make Edibles
Popcorn flower is an excellent choice for making cannabutter or other cannabis-infused edibles. Its lower price makes it budget-friendly, allowing you to experiment with recipes without stressing about waste or if you mess up.
Start by decarbing the buds to activate the cannabinoids, then infuse them into butter or oil. Once prepared, you can use your infused base to whip up anything from brownies to savory dishes. Or, you can even add some cannabutter to your morning coffee.
Press Into Rosin
If you’re a fan of concentrates, popcorn flower is a fantastic option for making rosin at home. Rosin is a solventless extract, meaning it’s made using only heat and pressure—no need for harsh chemicals or specialized equipment.
All you need is a hair straightener, some parchment paper, and a little elbow grease to press the flower and extract the resin. Alternatively, you can invest in a rosin press. This process is simple, beginner-friendly, and perfect if you want to consume a clean, pure concentrate. With popcorn flower’s affordability, you can experiment with pressing rosin without breaking the bank, making it a great choice for DIY cannabis enthusiasts.4
How Strong Is Popcorn Flower?
Popcorn flower is slightly less potent than premium flower of the same strain, primarily because of its smaller size and less developed trichomes, which contain the plant’s cannabinoids, flavonoids, and terpenes. However, this doesn’t mean popcorn buds are weak.
The potency largely depends on the strain and growing conditions, meaning you can still find popcorn flower with relatively high THC levels that deliver strong effects. For cannasseurs seeking a milder experience or experimenting with edibles, this slightly reduced potency can actually be a bonus, offering more control over dosage while still providing a satisfying cannabis experience
Pros & Cons of Popcorn Flower
Like any cannabis product, popcorn flower has its pros and cons. Here’s a closer look at what makes it a great choice—and where it might fall short.
Pros:
- Affordable pricing: Popcorn flower is less expensive than premium buds, making it a budget-friendly option for consumers.
- Beginner-friendly potency: The slightly lower THC levels can be perfect for new cannabis enthusiasts looking for a milder experience.
- Highly versatile:From smoking to edibles to concentrates, popcorn flower can be used in various ways.
Cons:
- Lower potency for experienced users: Those with a high tolerance may find the effects less satisfying.
- Less visual and flavorful appeal: Popcorn buds lack the vibrant, frosty look of premium flower and may not deliver as rich a flavor profile.
While it may not win any beauty contests, popcorn flower delivers solid value and versatility for cannabis enthusiasts at all levels.
Answering FAQs About Popcorn Flower
Popcorn flower raises a few common questions. Let’s clear them up so you can make an informed choice, and, if you would like more information, stop by and chat with your favorite LivWell budtender.
How much does popcorn cost?
The price of popcorn buds depends on the strain, amount, and local taxes. It’s always less expensive than premium flower.
Why is it called popcorn bud?
These smaller buds look like popped kernels of popcorn, giving them their playful nickname.
What are smalls?
Smalls is just another term for popcorn flower. In some states, it’s required for cannabis popcorn to be labeled as smalls.
Why is popcorn flower cheaper?
Popcorn flower has less bag appeal and is often less flavorful than larger, denser buds.
What is the difference between popcorn buds and regular buds?
Popcorn buds are smaller, fluffier, and less potent than regular, dense buds.
Is Popcorn Bud Worth It?
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly cannabis option, popcorn flower is definitely worth considering. While it might not have the aesthetic charm of premium buds, it delivers many of the same effects at a fraction of the price. Plus, its versatility makes it ideal for smoking, cooking, or even pressing into rosin. Visit your local LivWell dispensary to see if popcorn buds fit your needs!
Sources:
1. “What Are Popcorn Cannabis Buds?” Leafly, July 28, 2020, https://www.leafly.com/news/cannabis-101/what-are-popcorn-marijuana-buds
2. “Ask a Stoner: Are Popcorn Buds a Good Deal?” Westword, October 22, 2020, https://www.westword.com/marijuana/popcorn-weed-nugs-good-deal-dispensary-11825378
3. “What are Popcorn Cannabis Buds?” Leafbuyer, May 24, 2018, https://www.leafbuyer.com/blog/what-are-popcorn-buds/
4. “Leafly’s guide to rosin: What is it and how do you make it?” May 9, 2024, https://www.leafly.com/learn/consume/dabs/rosin-how-to
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.
