Understanding Wax vs. Liquid Vapes
Vaping has become a popular way to enjoy cannabinoids like Delta-8, Delta-9, and CBD. When you’re shopping for vapes you’re going to come across both liquid and wax vape carts. While they might look similar at first, they work differently and offer unique experiences.
If you’re unsure which one is right for you, this guide breaks it down in simple terms. We’ll cover how they work, their pros and cons, and which option might best suit your needs.
What Is a Wax Vape?
Wax vapes, also called dab pens or concentrate vaporizers, are designed to heat and vaporize cannabis extracts with a thick, waxy consistency. These extracts include live resin, shatter, budder, and crumble.
How Wax Vapes Work
- Wax is loaded directly onto a heating element (coil or ceramic chamber).
- The device heats the wax at high temperatures to produce vapor.
- Users inhale the vapor through a mouthpiece.
Pros of Wax Vapes
- More potent hits due to higher cannabinoid concentrations.
- Pure flavor since wax is less processed than vape oils.
- Fewer additives compared to liquid vapes, making for a cleaner experience.
Cons of Wax Vapes
- Requires regular cleaning to prevent buildup on the coil.
- Not as convenient since wax must be manually loaded into the device.
- Higher heat settings can drain battery life faster.
What Is a Liquid Vape?
Liquid vapes (also known as oil vapes or cartridge vapes) use a thinner, liquid-based cannabis extract. These are commonly found in pre-filled cartridges and disposable vape pens.
How Liquid Vapes Work
- A battery powers a heating element that warms the vape oil.
- The oil turns into vapor, which is inhaled through the mouthpiece.
- Many devices use a 510-thread battery compatible with various cartridges.
Pros of Liquid Vapes
- Easy to use—just attach a cartridge to the battery.
- Portable and discreet, with less odor than wax vapes.
- Consistent dosing, since pre-filled cartridges provide a controlled amount of cannabinoids per puff.
Cons of Liquid Vapes
- Less potent than wax due to lower cannabinoid concentrations.
- May contain additives like propylene glycol (PG) or vegetable glycerin (VG).
- Limited customization compared to wax vapes.
Which Vape Is Right for You?
The choice between a wax vape and a liquid vape depends on your lifestyle, experience level, and desired effects.
Choose a Wax Vape If:
- You want a stronger experience with higher cannabinoid concentrations.
- You enjoy richer flavors and a more natural extract.
- You’re okay with a little extra maintenance to keep your device clean.
Choose a Liquid Vape If:
- You prefer convenience and a ready-to-use option.
- You want a discreet and portable device for on-the-go use.
- You like consistent dosing without needing to measure wax manually.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do wax and liquid vapes contain the same cannabinoids?
Both wax and liquid vapes can contain cannabinoids like Delta-8, Delta-9, and CBD. However, wax vapes usually have higher concentrations since they are less processed.
2. Are wax vapes stronger than liquid vapes?
Typically, yes. Wax concentrates often contain 70-90% cannabinoids, while vape oils usually range from 50-80%. The higher potency means wax vapes can produce stronger effects.
3. Do liquid vapes have more additives than wax?
In most cases, yes. Some vape oils contain thinning agents like MCT oil, PG, or VG, while wax concentrates are often more pure. Always check third-party lab results before purchasing.
4. Which vape lasts longer, wax or liquid?
It depends on usage. A 1-gram vape cartridge might last longer for casual users since the oil is more controlled. Wax vapes can go through material faster due to higher potency.
5. Are wax vapes harder to use than liquid vapes?
Wax vapes require more steps, such as manually loading the concentrate and cleaning the device. Liquid vapes, especially pre-filled cartridges, are more beginner-friendly.
Both wax and liquid vapes offer unique benefits, whether you prioritize potency, flavor, or convenience. If you’re looking for an easy, on-the-go option, a liquid vape might be the way to go. But if you want a stronger, more flavorful experience, a wax vape could be a better fit.
No matter which you choose, always buy from trusted sources that provide lab-tested products for safety and quality. At Restart CBD, we offer a range of legal THC vape products to fit your preferences. Explore our selection and find the right vape for you!