The Growth of the Vape Category
The vape category has grown exponentially since the dawn of legal cannabis. The ease of use, lack of strong odor, portability, and smooth draw that vape pens and pods provide make them a top seller at dispensaries across the country, second only to flower.
The products are likely to continue their domination of the market as more people add cannabis to their regimens and brand categories evolve. Blends of different terpenes and cannabinoids are rising in demand as more is discovered about the potential benefits of cannabis.
With so many different types of weed pens, vape cartridges, and cannabis pods on dispensary shelves, you may be curious about the differences between them – and how they work. Read on to find out the science behind vaping and how to get the best experience.
The Variety of Weed Pens, Vape Cartridges, and Pods
What Are Weed Pens?
Vape pens, or weed pens as they’re often known, typically refer to a type of device that vaporizes cannabis oil. They usually resemble an ink pen, hence the name.
The pens may be all-in-one or use a system with separate batteries and cartridges or pods.
The type of oil and the hardware used can vary, but the concept is fairly standard across the board: oil is heated through a battery-operated element. The heated oil turns to vapor, which is then inhaled through a mouthpiece on one end of the pen.
When discussing weed pens in this blog, we are referring to pre-filled disposable pens. They typically contain anywhere from 0.2 grams to one full gram per pen.
How Are Weed Pens Different from Vape Cartridges and Pods?
Here’s a quick breakdown of the different vaporizer types:
- Weed Pens: Vape pens as they are understood in this context are disposable. Once the oil inside has been depleted, it can simply be thrown in the trash. They typically do not need to be recharged, having enough battery power to last the entire life of the oil.
- Vape Cartridges: These are part of a two-piece system. A cartridge, usually cylinder-shaped and pre-filled with 0.5 or 1 gram of oil, screws into a compatible battery known as a 510-thread.
- Vape Pods: Similar to cartridges, pods are also pre-filled with oil but are often designed to work with proprietary batteries. Pods can vary in shape, including square and half-circle designs, and often lock into place with magnets for added durability and compactness.
Comparing 510-Thread Vape Carts and Cannabis Pods
When discussing vape cartridges, the term typically refers to 510-thread tanks, named for the small screw at the bottom that connects to the female end of a compatible vape battery.
Cannabis pods, by contrast, utilize proprietary battery systems and often feature a sleek design. These devices frequently use a magnet to secure the pod in place and are celebrated for their durability and portability.
How Do Weed Pens, Vape Cartridges, and Pods Turn On?
Now that you know the difference between the various types of vapes, you may be curious about how to get them going.
Activating a Vape Device
There are two main ways to activate a vape. They will either begin working simply by inhaling through the mouthpiece or via a small button on the battery.
- Button-Powered Devices: For button-powered vape pens, you will typically press the button five times in rapid succession to turn the vape on or off. When turned on, press and hold the button while inhaling to activate the system.
- Inhalation-Activated Devices: Breath-activated vapes will turn on automatically when you inhale through the mouthpiece.
If you’re new to vaping, start slow. Count to two while inhaling, then exhale. If you feel comfortable, increase your draw length gradually.
Charging and Maintenance
Always turn the vape battery off once you’re done using it. If you see a flashing light, it typically indicates the battery needs to be charged. For disposable vapes, a flashing light usually means the device is empty and can be discarded.
Customizing the Vape Experience
Many vape batteries allow you to control the temperature and/or power of your vape hit through adjustments to the voltage. These settings can often be changed using the same button used to turn the battery on and off.
- Color Indicators: Colors often represent different temperature levels. For instance:
- Blue: Lowest setting (gentle hit with enhanced flavor)
- Green: Medium setting (balanced hit and flavor)
- Red: High setting (stronger hit with larger clouds) Always check the device manual for exact color coding.
- Voltage Dials: Some batteries include a dial on the bottom to adjust voltage. Higher voltage typically results in a more powerful hit, while lower settings deliver a smoother experience.
Most users find medium settings to provide the best balance of flavor and cloud production. Adjust to suit your preferences.
Types of Cannabis Oil in Weed Pens
If you thought all cannabis oil was the same, guess again. Different extraction methods and manufacturing processes result in a variety of concentrate products suitable for vape pens. Here are three popular types:
Distillate
Common in vape cartridges and pods, distillate is a highly refined oil that contains high concentrations of cannabinoids such as THC or CBD. While potent, it lacks some of the natural compounds like terpenes that give cannabis its distinct flavor and effects.
Live Resin
Live resin is made from fresh-frozen plant material and is extremely popular for its affordability and potency. Typically extracted using butane or CO2 methods, live resin retains more terpenes, making it ideal for those seeking an experience similar to smoking cannabis flower but with the convenience of vaping.
Rosin
Rosin is a cannabis concentrate created without the use of solvents. The most natural type of weed oil, active compounds are extracted using either ice water or extreme pressure and heat. This craft product is rising in popularity thanks to its high quality and delicious taste.
Can You Make Your Own Vape Pen?
The short answer is yes. It is possible to order empty vape cartridge tanks or pods and fill them yourself using either a syringe or a commercial filling machine. However, it is important to note that not all cannabis concentrates are suitable for vape pen use.
The oil in vape pens must have a certain viscosity to work within the system. So-called “cutting agents” can be added to help maintain consistency but are not recommended. It’s far safer and more convenient to purchase legitimate vape cartridges or pods from a licensed dispensary.
Cannabis Vape Batteries vs. Chargers
It’s important to note that weed pen chargers and batteries are not the same. The chargers are used along with the battery. Some vape batteries use a standard USB charging cable, while certain 510-thread batteries require a corresponding USB charger that screws into the space where the cartridge would normally go.
Which Type of Weed Vape Is Best?
It can be difficult to discern which vape pens, pods, or cartridges are deserving of top-shelf status, but there are a few clues:
- No Leaks: Vapes should not leak oil. If residue builds up, use a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol to clean any sticky areas. If this issue persists, it’s a sign of a faulty product.
- Powerful Hits and Battery Life: Quality vapes will deliver strong hits and have long-lasting batteries.
- Variety: The best weed pens will come in a variety of strains and cannabinoid blends.
- Consistency: Great vape cartridges and pods will never clog, offering a smooth and consistent experience every time.