Vape Pen vs. Cannabis Flower: Which is Better?

Posted on December 1, 2022 by Munchies

Key Takeaways

• Cost-Effectiveness – While the initial price for vape pens and flower may seem similar, vaping is more efficient. Vape pens eliminate waste, providing a stronger high with less product.
• Healthier for Lungs – Smoking flower releases harmful toxins due to combustion, while vaping avoids these by heating cannabis without burning it. Vaping is gentler on the lungs, though it’s still important to exercise caution.
• Longer-Lasting High – Vaping tends to produce a stronger and longer-lasting high than smoking flower, which can last up to 8 hours compared to the typical 2-3 hours of smoking.
• Convenience and Discretion – Vape pens are portable, discreet, and easy to use, making them ideal for on-the-go consumption. There’s minimal odor, unlike with smoking flower, which can be more noticeable.

The Difference Between Vaping and Smoking Cannabis

When it comes to getting high, both smoking and vaping have their own distinct experiences. Smoking cannabis involves inhaling the smoke from burning plant material, which contains a mix of THC, CBD, and terpenes. The effects of smoking are felt almost immediately, but the combustion process destroys some cannabinoids, leading to potential waste of products.

Vaping, however, is a more controlled process. You inhale vaporized cannabinoids, allowing you to adjust how much you consume, which can produce a longer-lasting, more potent high. The cannabis oil in the cartridge is heated to temperatures between 250-400°F, just below the combustion point, to produce vapor containing the active ingredients. This vapor is inhaled, and THC enters your bloodstream through the lungs, providing an almost immediate effect. 

Vaping is often considered healthier since it avoids the harmful tar and carcinogens found in smoke. While smoking typically delivers a quick high lasting a few hours, vaping may last longer and deliver stronger effects, sometimes up to 8 hours, depending on the type of product and user tolerance.

Advantages of THC Vape Pens

1. Smoke-Free Experience – Vape pens offer a cleaner, smoke-free alternative to joints. Vapor is easier on the throat and less likely to cause coughing fits. Plus, no lingering smoke makes them ideal for discreet consumption.
2. Widely Available – With the growing legalization of cannabis, THC vape pens are widely available both in stores and online, giving users access to a variety of high-quality products.
3. Enhanced Flavor – Vape pens allow you to enjoy the rich flavors of cannabis terpenes. With terpenes added to the THC concentrate, the taste is typically more pronounced than in traditional smoking.
4. Cost-Effective – Vape pens provide more value for your money. A typical cartridge lasts for around 300-600 puffs, and you can take smaller, controlled hits, ensuring you don’t waste product like you would with a joint.
5. No Lingering Smell – Vaping produces a much less noticeable odor compared to smoking, making it perfect for indoor use or for those who want to keep their cannabis consumption low-key.
6. Control Over THC Intake – Vaping gives you precise control over how much THC you consume with each hit. You can even adjust the temperature and vapor flow, tailoring your experience.
7. Beginner-Friendly – Vape pens are user-friendly and require little effort to operate. For those new to cannabis, they provide a simple and easy way to enjoy cannabis without the complications of smoking joints or bongs. Plus, you can opt for milder THC variants like Delta 8 for a more manageable experience.

Whether you’re looking for a healthier alternative to smoking, a more controlled high, or simply the convenience of portability, vape pens offer an array of benefits that make them a great choice for both seasoned and new users alike.

​​Advantages of Smoking Flower 

While vaping has its benefits, smoking flower still holds a special place in many cannabis enthusiasts’ hearts. Here are some reasons why smoking flower might be your preferred method:

1. Full Spectrum Experience – Smoking flower delivers the full spectrum of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids naturally present in the plant. These compounds work together to provide a more well-rounded high, allowing you to experience the entire entourage effect.
2. Customization – Smoking flower allows for more control over your experience. You can choose your desired strain based on its effects, aroma, and flavor profile. You can also roll your joints or pack your bowl exactly how you like it, adjusting the quantity and smoking style to match your preferences.
3. Traditional Experience – There’s a certain ritual and satisfaction in smoking flower that many find appealing. Whether it’s rolling a joint, packing a bowl, or using a bong, the act of smoking flower is a classic cannabis experience that can feel more personal and relaxing for some users.
4. Less Equipment Needed – Unlike vaping, which requires a specific device and cartridges, smoking flower only requires basic accessories like a lighter, rolling papers, or a pipe. It’s a straightforward method without charging, maintaining, or replacing cartridges.

Vaping vs. Smoking: Cost

When comparing the cost of vaping versus smoking, let’s assume you’re consuming the same amount of THC. If you smoke one gram of weed per day, it can cost you between $50-$70 a week. On the other hand, a vape pen will generally cost between $50-$60, and the cartridge (containing oil) typically costs $35-$40. A vape pen should last you a week, depending on usage.

While the initial cost might be similar, vaping tends to be more cost-effective over time. Unlike smoking, vaping eliminates the waste that comes with burning weed. Vape pens are more efficient, as they heat the concentrate to a temperature where THC is vaporized, preventing unused cannabis from being burned away. Plus, the stronger high from vaping means you may need less product to achieve the same effects, ultimately saving you money.

Smoking vs. Vaping: Effects on Lungs

The method of cannabis consumption impacts your lungs significantly. Smoking involves inhaling combusted plant material, which produces harmful byproducts like tar and carbon monoxide that can irritate the lungs. If done frequently, this can lead to coughing, respiratory issues, and long-term damage.

Vaping, however, is much gentler on the lungs because it heats the cannabis to a point where the active ingredients are vaporized, not burned. While vaping is generally considered safer for lung health, the exact long-term effects are still under study. However, vaping eliminates the harmful toxins found in smoke. Regardless, always be cautious with your consumption and avoid purchasing vape pens or cartridges from unreliable or unregulated sources.

Final Thoughts

When deciding between a vape pen and smoking flower, it ultimately boils down to personal preference and lifestyle. Vaping offers a more efficient, discreet, and potentially healthier way to consume cannabis. The convenience, stronger flavor, and longer-lasting high make it an appealing choice for many. However, traditional flower smoking still holds its charm for those who enjoy the ritual of rolling a joint and the full-bodied experience it provides.

Whether you opt for the control and portability of a vape pen or the classic enjoyment of smoking flower, both methods have their unique benefits. The key is to understand what works best for you and to experiment with different options to find your ideal cannabis experience.

(Disclaimer reminder: This article is not medical advice. It is based on anecdotal user experience alone. If you are thinking about incorporating cannabis (Delta-8 THC, Delta-9 THC, CBD, etc) into your medicinal routine, please consult a healthcare professional. Do not stop taking any prescribed medications without first consulting your doctor.)

Disclaimer: This article reflects the laws of the United States at the time it was written. Because cannabis laws in the United States are subject to change at any time, please make sure that you are always staying up to date on your federal, state, and local county’s cannabis laws. Additionally, we are NOT encouraging anyone to break the law––we are simply showing people ways to legally and discreetly bring their cannabis products along with them on their travels so that they may have access to those products when they reach their intended destination.