The world is constantly evolving and new inventions are being created all of the time. Health or ease are usually the forces driving these new and impressive creations. Mark Zuckerberg created Facebook so we could connect with our friends online. Jeff Bezos created Amazon so we could purchase anything we could ever dream of. And now there’s the cannabis vaporizer.
The weed vape, or dry herb vape, or cannabis vape – whatever you want to call it – has revolutionised the cannabis industry. It claims to be healthier, easier and cheaper. But as the dreaded year of 2021 comes to a close, what are the top 5 cannabis vaporizers of this year? And why? Today we’ll be taking you through what these devices are, how they work, why people like them and which ones to look out for.
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What is a Cannabis Vaporizer?
A cannabis vaporizer is an electric device that heats up cannabis at around 180-220 degrees without burning it. It instead warms the cannabis, turning it into vapour instead of smoke, which is then inhaled by the user. Some cannabis vaporizers can also take cannabis concentrates and hash inside them too.
There are many different types of cannabis vape, and they come in many shapes and sizes. Some are big, whilst some are small. Some look slick, whilst others look a little more industrial. Some look like light sabres, whilst others look like small radiators. But the truth is, they all work roughly the same. The bud is placed in a chamber to be heated up, and the resulting vapour is inhaled through the mouthpiece. But what are they key elements of a dry herb vaporizer?
Elements of the Cannabis Vape
Chamber
The chamber is where the magic happens. The bud or cannabis concentrate is placed in the chamber, which is basically like an oven, and it’s then heated up. There are two types of heating processes: convention or conduction. Conduction heater systems heat the cannabis from below, a bit like a frying pan does. Whereas convection heater systems will heat the cannabis from all around, very similar to an oven. Each vape has different heat up times, but you can probably expect your bud to be ready to be inhaled in around 30-60 seconds. Vapour then builds up in the chamber, which can then be inhaled.
Mouthpiece
The mouthpiece is where you inhale from. You inhale from the mouthpiece, which drags the vapour from the chamber and into your mouth. Mouthpieces also come in varying shapes and sizes. Some are made from glass especially to maintain flavour.
Battery
The battery is where the power comes from. Battery life is crucial when it comes to dry herb vapes, so it’s important to have one that will give you enough battery to atleast last the day. You never know when you’ll be able to charge it again, especially if you live a busy life. The 18650mAh battery is one of the best and is even used to power Teslas.
Are Cannabis Vaporizers Legal?
Cannabis vaporizers are legal in basically all countries because they don’t actually contain any cannabis. In countries where recreational weed is legal, then it’s no suprise the cannabis vapes exist. However, in countries where recreational weed is not legal, the loophole that producers use is that the cannabis vape does not actually have to be used to consume cannabis. In fact, in the UK they are referred to as ‘dry herb vaporizers’ because they can technically be used to heat up legal kitchen herbs too. Whilst in the USA, cannabis vapes are much more accepted and known to be used for cannabis consumption. In most countries cannabis accessories are legal – like bongs and vaporizers – but cannabis is not.
What’s All The Fuss About?
There are many reasons why cannabis vaporizers have taken the cannabis industry by storm. Like all inventions, they only become successful if they put the user first, and it seems that cannabis vaporizers have done exactly that. So what’s all the fuss about?
Healthier
Using a cannabis vaporizer has proven to be healthier than smoking cannabis. When a joint is lit, it burns at around 900 degrees. This is called combustion and it occurs whenever anything is burned over 240 degrees. When combustion takes place, dangerous toxins and cancerous carcinogens are released into the body and specifically into the lungs. This can cause serious problems over time. However, the vaporizer never exceeds 240 degrees, and as such does not trigger the combustion process. In fact, there’s no fire whatsoever, only heat. This means that you avoid those dangerous toxins and fumes when you’re using a cannabis vaporizer. There are of course stories of the infamous ‘popcorn lung’, which is a lung problem that occurs if you use a vaporizer over long periods of time. However, this issue is yet to be fully proven and more research needs to be done into it. The truth is, using a dry herb vaporizer is definitely healthier than smoking, but it also may have its own problems.
Ease
Another reason why vaporizers are becoming so popular is because they are easy to use. There’s no rolling involved, no creating a roach; all you have to do is turn your vape on, place the bud in the chamber and inhale. It’s extremely easy and simple. The amount of time spent rolling a joint is essentially eradicated by the purchase of a weed vape. In addition, cannabis vaporisers also don’t leave you with the same scent as a joint. They are far more discreet. Smoke can stick to your clothes and fingers, whereas vapour does not have the same effect.
Flavour & Intensity
Many prefer a cannabis vaporizer because it maintains the aromas of the cannabinoids. When cannabis is burnt, much of the flavour and some of the intensity is lost during the combustion process. However, when it only vaporises, much of this is maintained. When having a vape hit you may be surprised by the power of the bud, as well as the tastes.
Price
Although the initial price of buying a vaporizer can be expensive, the money you’ll save after could actually make vaping cheaper than smoking. Vaping does not require tobacco, rizlas, roaches, or any of the other accessoires. This, over time, could save you a lot of money. In addition, the purity of the bud in a vape is much stronger, which means you actually end up using less cannabis. So your cannabis can also last longer than if you smoke it. There are many different vapes, for many different prices, so you don’t have to spend a fortune on one if you don’t want to.
Top 5 Cannabis Vapes of 2021
So, without further ado, here is our list of the top cannabis vapes of 2021. Remember, there are many out there, but these are the ones that stand out.
Pax 3
“The classy one”
Price: $250
Reason: The pax 3 is probably one of the sexiest looking cannabis vapes out there. It’s a very slick looking device, it has no annoying buttons to get used to, and it even has an app that controls its temperature. Plus, the device heats in around 15 seconds, which is incredibly quick. It takes both dry herb and cannabis concentrates, which is ideal for anyone who enjoys different types of cannabis.
Lastly, the Pax 3 has incredible lip sensing technology which begins heating up the moment your lips touch the mouthpiece. If you’re a classy individual, who enjoys an element of discreet pleasure in your vaping, then this is the device for you. Whilst it isn’t a cheap device, you get what you pay for.
The Mighty
“The beast”
Price: $350
Reason: The Mighty is for the more experienced of you out there, and for those that enjoy a massive cloud of vapour. The reason why this device is so popular in the US is because blowing a cloud of cannabis vapor in California won’t get you in trouble. Perhaps if you’re from a country that has yet to legalize recreational cannabis then don’t bring this outside.
The Mighty is a bigger device and extremely powerful. The battery life makes this device stand out from the others. However, whilst it is included on the list, is it worth the price? That question will be left for you to decide. Nonetheless, this vaporizer is for those who enjoy blowing vape rings, and exhaling dragon-like clouds. This machine is a beast, and it’s made for those proud individuals who will unlock its full potential.
G Pen Dash
“The cute one”
Price: $70
Reason: The G Pen Dash is the cheapest device on this list, but it still packs a punch. It takes dry cannabis bud in it and has three settings of temperature, which although does limit you, it also simplifies the entire process of heat controls. The slick aluminium feel and neat design, makes this a very discreet looking device.
The G Pen Dash has picked up the reputation as one of the best budget cannabis vapes on the market. If you’re a first timer, and still a novice in the world of weed vapes, then perhaps this is the perfect one for you. It’s cheap, it’s reliable and darn it’s cute.
Nectar Platinum
“The slick one”
Price: $250
Reason: The Nectar Platinum comes all the way from England, which is rare for cannabis vaporizers. Especially good ones. This device has the same slickness and cool design as the pax 3, but also has a beautiful magnetic chamber, which opens and closes easily. It also has LED light controls which makes this device potentially the easiest to use. Plus, it’s a pretty moderate price in comparison with some of the others.
The Nectar Platinum also takes dry bud and cannabis concentrates, which is a huge bonus. The Nectar Platinum is designed for those who are somewhere in the middle – individuals looking for a more slick and classy device, but don’t quite want to reach the vape cloud level of the beast. Plus, if you’re less tech savvy, then this one could be easier to use than the Pax 3.
Magic Flight Launch Box
“The retro one”
Price: $140
Reason: The Magic Flight Launch Box is probably the most beautiful device of the lot. Although it’s cliche to say but, they quite literally don’t make them like this anymore. Made from wood, and completely renewable materials, this box may not pack as much of a punch as the others, but it definitely has the most heart. It was created by artisans in California, and allows you to watch you cannabis as it heats up through a small window-like design.
The heating system is simple and so are the controls, but this art-piece of a device is definitely worth its minimal price. This vape is for those of you want to go back to the roots of vaping, for those who love history and aesthetic. It might not be as discreet as some of the others, but if you’re into the retro look, then this is the one for you.
Conclusion
Whether you are looking for a new cannabis vaporizer, or if you’re just interested to know more about them, then hopefully all corners have been covered today. With the cannabis industry constantly evolving and smoking becoming less popular, always remember that the cannabis vape is always an alternative option. But which is your favourite?
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Disclaimer: Hi, I’m a researcher and writer. All information in my articles is sourced and referenced, and all opinions stated are mine. I am not giving anyone advise, and though I am more than happy to discuss topics, should someone have a further question or concern, they should seek guidance from a relevant professional.
