If you enjoy vaping, you’ve likely heard of vape pens, wax pens, and dab pens; they’re all excellent options for consuming cannabis. In recent years, these vaping devices have grown in popularity because they’re simple to use, affordable, and portable. You can use vape pens with nicotine or you can get a vape pen for CBD, and enjoy more health benefits.
However, although these devices are growing in popularity, there are some differences between the three. In this article, we’ll examine the main differences between vape pens, wax pens, and dab pens and how they affect you:
What Is a Vape Pen?
A vape pen is a general phrase used for vaping. It commonly refers to a pre-filled THC cartridge and vape pen battery. However, most vape pens use a 510-thread cartridge connection—which is often called a universal connection point. As a result, this makes it straightforward for consumers to switch the cartridges and the 510 vape battery around.
The name 510 refers to the connection point that matches the battery and the cartridge, which are 5mm and 10 threads apart. Vape pens typically have a pre-filled THC cartridge from the dispensary; you can replace these once they’re empty. In addition, the vape pen battery is typically a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that you may reuse.
Vape pens are the second most popular item bought from dispensaries after cannabis flowers because of their affordability, ease of use, and portability. Many manufacturers also design vape pens for tobacco use, but you can also use CBD and THC interchangeably. You can set vape pens to different temperatures to change the hit you experience. However, many cannabis fans use dab pens for more potent hits instead of vape pens.
The Pros of Vape Pens
Vape pens are growing in popularity worldwide because they’re cost-effective and easy to use. Here are some of the main reasons for the burst in popularity:
- Convenient for on-to-go usage
- Discreet and excellent for hiding the scent
- Compact and small
- Perfect for travel
- High potency potential
- Long-lasting effects
- Available in disposable options
The Cons of Vape Pens
- You can’t personalize vape pens much.
- They only use liquid forms of THC or cartridges instead of dabs or wax.
- Some of the cheaper vape pens can be unsafe if not from a reputable brand.
Who Are Vape Pens Best For?
Due to their straightforward usage, vape pens are superb for beginners starting their vaping journey. Vape pens are also superb for beginners because they require little maintenance and they’re discreet. Vape pens are brilliant if you love to travel because of their small and compact size.
Here are some of the top vape pens we recommend.
What Is a Wax Pen?
Wax pens are also a popular option for cannabis fans. They are similar to vape pens but have a stronger battery, which makes them bulkier. The primary difference between a vape pen and a wax pen is the atomizer and concentrate chamber used to vape the user’s chosen liquid.
Although vape pens use a lower temperature, wax pens may reach up to 700 Fahrenheit, thus allowing users to choose the best heating option for their cannabis. Many people who choose wax pens prefer choosing a thicker style of concentrate—such as live resin and shatter.
The upkeep of wax pens is more complex than vape pens because you must clean the chamber after use and switch the atomizer from time to time. Still, the portability and potency of wax pens make them a superb option for people who love to vape on the go.
The wax pen’s strength is similar to the strength offered by a dab pen; therefore, wax pens are often referred to as dab pens. Instead of being designed for use with pre-filled cartridges, wax pens allow users to vaporize the concentrate of their choice with a dab tool.
The Pros of Wax Pens
Wax pens are popular because they enable you to enjoy high-potency hits. Moreover, you can load your favorite concentrate and puff on the go with wax pens. Here are some of the main reasons why people choose wax pens:
- Small and compact
- They don’t offer any scent
- You can recharge them
- They offer replaceable parts
- High potency levels
- You can fine-tune temperature levels
The Cons of Using Wax Pens
- They’re often more expensive than ordinary vape pens.
- They require more upkeep and regular maintenance compared to vape pens.
- They’re not as discreet as a vape that doesn’t need hand loading.
Who Are Wax Pens Best For?
Wax pens are ideal for anyone looking to enhance their vaping experience. Although they’re not the best option for beginners, wax pens offer more temperature control and the option of hotter vaping for specific concentrates. Users will gain more dominance over their vaping experience, but regular maintenance and upkeep come with that.
Here are some of the top wax pens we recommend.
What Is a Dab Pen?
If you’re looking for a strong high, dab pens are possibly the best option. A dab pen refers to the intensity of the high rather than the device itself. A vape pen or a wax pen can provide a dab pen like high, but it depends on the quality of the material and the heat settings. You can say the phrase dab pen when talking about various vaping devices, but they must provide a dab-like experience.
The Pros of a Dab Pen
Dab pens don’t just provide an excellent high, but they also offer many other benefits. Here are some of the main benefits:
- They allow more control and creative choice than other options
- They allow hotter vapes compared to other vape pens
The Cons of a Dab Pen
- They can be more expensive than other vaping devices
- They require the most upkeep out of the three vaping devices
- They are less discreet than a vape because you need to hand load the device.
Who Are Dab Pens Best For?
Dab pens are ideal for anyone who’s super experienced with vaping devices because dab pens offer the strongest high. Therefore, it’s better to have high tolerance levels and understand how much you can handle. Dab pens are excellent for controlling your vaping experience if you’re becoming bored of vape pens.
How to Use a Dab Pen
Dab pens are relatively easy to use. However, remember that dab pens are all different; it’s best to read the instructions beyond understanding the basic steps. Here’s an overview of the basic steps below:
- If your dab pen requires power, start it up by hitting the power button between 3 and 5 times. You can ensure the heating coil is working by pressing the power button. That way, you won’t waste any precious concentrates by using faulty equipment.
- Remove the mouthpiece from the dab pen to expose the heating chamber.
- Scoop up the concentrate you plan on using with a metal tool. Then, carefully place the concentrate onto the wick or coil.
Remember that lower temperature hits are often more potent. Here are some other important tips for using dap pens:
- Always ensure your dab pen is clean by wiping it down with a q-tip and alcohol frequently.
- To prevent overheating, allow your vape pen to cool off if it feels hot.
- Keep the pen upright for use and storage.
- Try to avoid overpacking your dab pen with cannabis concentrate because it can overheat the coil.
Here are some of the top dab pens we recommend.
How Vape Pens, Wax Pens, and Dab Pens Are Similar
The main similarities between vape pens, dab pens, and wax pens are the strong battery life, excellent portability, and discreet smoking potential. They allow cannabis fans to keep their storage to a minimum.
In addition, you can fit all three options into your pocket because they’re small and compact, making them excellent for travel. You can also find all three options in various shapes, sizes, and styles. In short, all three are superb for cannabis fans.
How Vape Pens, Wax Pens, and Dab Pens Are Different
The most significant difference between vape pens, wax pens, and dab pens is the type of concentrate they use. You can only use cartridges with refined cannabis oil with vape pens, but wax pens can vape thicker concentrates—including rosin and shatter. Vape pens are the most popular option of the three because they’re so simple to operate; they also come with pre-filled THC cartridges. However, there are also more style and size options.
It may take some time to learn how to use wax pens, but they’re excellent once you get the hang of them. Also, wax pens require you to load concentrate into the heating chamber, set the right heat setting, and keep the device clean to ensure it works properly.
What Is the Safest Option?
It’s always smart to choose the safest option when you begin your vaping journey. Overall, vaping is safer than smoking; however, the heat of your vape pen can affect the safety of your experience. For example, a recent study found that the hotter the hash oil gets, the more it will release carcinogens. Therefore, it’s safer to vape at a lower heat and many vape pens have different heat options.
Most importantly, you should vape the best concentrate; this will determine the safety of your vaping experience. However, if you have a vape pen with a low heat setting, this is the safest option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Wax Pen vs Vape Pen vs Dab Pen: Which Option Is Better?
When choosing between a wax pen and a dab pen, you must evaluate your own preferences. Vape pens are the most convenient option because you don’t need to load your pen with concentrate like a wax pen. However, wax pens are the better options if you prefer high potency concentrates or the strong effects of dabs.
What’s the Difference Between a Dab Pen and a Vape Pen?
The primary difference between a dab pen and a vape pen is the type of concentrate you’ll consume and how you’ll consume it. For example, a vape has a 510 thread battery that you’ll connect a vape cart into for inhaling, vaporizing, and heating. In contrast, a dab pen has a chamber with a heating apparatus that you’ll fill with your own concentrate.
What Is the Price of a Dab Pen?
The price of a dab pen varies depending on the type; you could spend more from $20 to over $100. The cost of a dab pen largely depends on the materials and how much control it gives the user. However, it’s essential to invest in a high-quality vaping device to ensure the best experience. Some cheaper vaping devices could be unsafe.
How Do You Charge a Wax Pen Without a Charger?
Have you lost your wax pen charger? Sadly, it’s not possible to charge a wax pen without a charger. Most wax pens come with a charger that enables you to rapidly charge your wax pen without stress. Therefore, once you buy a new charger, you’ll be up and running in no time.
Is It Safe To Use Vaping Devices?
One of the main reasons why people use vaping devices is because they’re safer than smoking. However, vape pens can still have adverse health effects, especially if you vape pure CBD oil. You should ensure you have high-quality concentrates for maximum safety.
What Is a Vape Pen Battery?
A vape pen battery powers the entire vaping device; without one, you can’t vape. However, vape pens typically offer a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that is small, compact, and lightweight.
What Is a Dab Pen High Like?
Dab pens offer a similar high to their traditional dab counterparts. However, the physical differences may create slightly different highs. For example, dab pens don’t reach as high of a temperature as dab rigs, which can impact the taste and feel of the dab.
In Summary
If you’re interested in vaping or you’re an experienced vaper, all three options can provide an incredible experience. You should try all three options to figure out the best option for you. However, vape pens are excellent for beginners. After a while, you can try using wax pens and dab pens to improve your smoking experience.
Either way, the vaping industry is booming and offers excellent benefits to nicotine and cannabis users. It’s time to experiment and judge whether it’s the best option for you.
