Dab pens and vape cartridges are two different ways of consuming cannabis. While both have their merits, there are some key differences to consider before making a decision about which one is best for you. In this blog post, we will explore the pros and cons of dab pens vs. vape cartridges so that you can make an informed decision when it comes to your consumption preference!
Dabbing vs Vaping
Before getting into the details on these two types of cannabis equipment, it’s important to highlight some of the key differences between dabbing and vaping.
While both vaping and dabbing technically involve inhaling vaporized cannabis, the term “vaping” generally describes using a vape pen to inhale vaporize THC oil.
Vape Pens
A vape pen is a battery-powered device that heats up oil or liquid cartridges and delivers vapor to the user’s mouth. The tank, atomizer, sensors, and battery are the four major components of a vape pen. These components interact and heat up together to create the vapor that is inhaled. When you use a vape pen, the atomizer draws in the vape liquid or oil and heats it into vapor. A user breathes the vapor in through their mouths, and subsequently experience the effects of the cannabis.
Dab Pens
“Dabbing” is a broader term that refers to the inhalation of vaporized cannabis concentrates in many unique forms, such a “sauce,” “wax,” or “shatter.” The most common method for doing dabs is through a device called a dab rig, but there are also devices called dab pens, which are similar to vape pens in both appearance and use.
The Basics of Dab Pen Cartridges and Vape Pens
A major appeal of both vape and dab pens is their portability. Vape and dab pens are tiny, making them simple to transport. Their compact size makes them extremely inconspicuous; they may be concealed in a handbag, backpack, or even a back pocket for when-needed use.
Vape and dab pens are also recognized for their simplicity of use, which is why they’re popular with both novices and experts. Although the particulars may vary from manufacturer and model, all of these pens can be immediately utilized simply by pressing a button and inhaling.
While they have many characteristics in common, dab and vape pens also have several notable distinctions. Investing in a high-quality pen may be costly, therefore it’s critical to differentiate between each gadget to ensure you get the best one.
Vaping instruments have varying types of products. Dab pens utilize waxy concentrates and dabs, whereas pens generally utilize oils or liquid. This is one of the reasons why vape pens are convenient and simple to operate – an oil cartridge may be inserted into the device and kept there during periods of non-use.
Dab pens, on the other hand, are user-measured with a tool that dispenses concentrate or wax. Because loading dab pens is done by hand, which makes it messier than a vape pen. Wax will accumulate and need to be scraped and cleaned away on a regular basis. During this maintenance, it’s also possible that the heating coil will need to be replaced; vape pens don’t generally require this upkeep.
How To Use Cannabis Oil Vape Pens or Cartridges
Vape pens are known for their simplicity of use. Push a button and inhale. They come in both disposable and rechargeable models. The disposable models are designed so that the battery runs out at about the same time that the cartridge becomes empty. When this happens, it’s done and you throw it away. The rechargeable models have a battery that is recharged by micro USB and a place to screw on replaceable pre-filled cartridges.
How to Use Dab Pens
Using a dab pen is just as simple as using a vape pen, but the preparation and maintenance are more complicated. To begin, your concentrate of choice must be hand-loaded into the device. This is typically done by using a tool called an “oil scoop” which is similar to the ones used with vape pens. The oil scoop has two sides, one side for loading and one for storage of excess concentrate that isn’t being used at the time.
Once you have loaded your dab pen, place it upright on its heating coil so that it can heat up the concentrate. Once heated, press the button to take a hit. After taking your hit, you can choose to either immediately repeat this step or place it back upright on its coil so that it can cool off before being used again.
Dab pens are typically larger than vape pens, but there are smaller models available if more portability is desired.
Which is Better, the Dab Pen or the Vape Pen or Cartridge?
There is, of course, no correct answer to this question. The type of vaping device you choose is dependent on your preferences and needs. Investing in a high-quality pen may be costly, therefore it’s critical to differentiate between each gadget to ensure you get the best one for what suits your requirements.
As you can see, dab pens and vape cartridges are similar in many ways. If you’re looking for a portable device to use discreetly on the go, both of these options may work well. However, if portability isn’t your main concern or disposable devices aren’t what you’re after then it’s worth considering which one would best suit your needs. Is cost an issue? Do you want something that is easy-to-use without too much maintenance required? When deciding between dab pens vs vape pens there are different factors to take into account so make sure to think about all aspects before making a decision.
Stop by Frost Denver Dispensary, and one of our budtenders can help you make your choice!
