In the first part of our two-part guide, we’ll break down the four main types of cannabis vape cartridges — Distillate, Live Resin, Liquid Diamonds, and Sauce—so you can better understand what you’re vaping.
With so many cannabis vape cartridges on the market, it’s easy to feel lost — especially if you’re new to vaping! Each type of vape oil offers a unique experience, and knowing the differences can help you find the best option for your needs.
Don’t miss Part 2, where we’ll dive into the different styles of vape devices, including Proprietary Pod Vapes, Disposable Vape Cartridges, and 510 Thread Systems, to help you find your perfect match!
But first, let’s cover the basics of what a vape cartridge is and how it works.
What is a Vape Cartridge and How Does it Work?
A vape cartridge, or “cart,” is a small, pre-filled container of cannabis oil (typically a half or full gram) that’s designed to be used with a vaporizer or vape pen. These cartridges usually come with a mouthpiece on one end and a connection point on the other, which screws or snaps into a battery-operated device.
When you activate a vape device (by pressing a button or simply inhaling, it depends on the model), the battery heats the oil inside the cartridge without burning it. This heat turns the oil into vapor, which you inhale through the mouthpiece. Unlike smoking, vaping releases THC and CBD without combustion, making it a smoother option.
Since vape cartridges come pre-filled, all you need to do is attach them to the battery, and you’re ready to go!
Types of Vape Cartridges
Cannabis Distillate Vape Cartridges: Cannabis distillate is a highly refined oil that’s mostly pure THC. It’s created through a process that removes everything except the active compounds, resulting in a strong, flavorless, and odorless oil that contains around 90% THC.
Why you’ll love them:
- High potency: Delivers a powerful, consistent THC experience.
- Customizable: You can find distillate cartridges with added flavors or terpenes.
- Low odor: The mild aroma makes it great for discreet use.
Things to consider:
- Less natural flavor: Without added terpenes, it’s almost flavorless.
- Limited effects: Since it’s mostly THC, you may miss out on the “entourage effect,” which happens when other compounds in the plant work together for a broader effect.
Live Resin Vape Cartridges: Live resin is made from freshly harvested cannabis that’s frozen right away to preserve the natural flavors and aromas. The result is an oil that keeps the full terpene profile of the plant, making for a richer and more flavorful vaping experience.
Why you’ll love them:
- Rich taste and aroma: Keeps the natural flavors and smells of the cannabis plant.
- Full spectrum: You get a wider variety of cannabinoids and terpenes, leading to a more well-rounded effect.
Things to consider:
- Shorter shelf life: Because live resin is packed with terpenes, it may degrade faster than other oils.
- Price: It’s often more expensive due to the complex extraction process.
Liquid Diamond Vape Cartridges: Liquid diamonds are made by suspending THC crystals(called THCA diamonds) in a terpene-rich liquid. This gives you both high potency and a flavorful vaping experience, combining strong effects with great taste.
Why you’ll love them:
- Super potent: One of the strongest THC products available.
- Great flavor: The terpenes bring out rich flavors and aromas.
Things to consider:
- Price: Liquid diamond cartridges can be more expensive due to the advanced process used to make them.
- Consistency issues: The texture of the oil can sometimes affect how well it works in different vape devices.
Sauce Vape Cartridges: Sauce cartridges are a mix of THCA crystals and a terpene-rich liquid. This combination gives you the benefits of both—strong THC effects along with the natural flavors and aromas of the plant.
Why you’ll love them:
- Potent and flavorful: A balance of strong THC and rich terpenes for a full, flavorful experience.
- Entourage effect: You’ll get a more complete experience, thanks to the mix of cannabinoids and terpenes.
Things to consider:
- Thicker oil: The consistency of sauce may not work as smoothly in all vape pens, so it’s important to have the right device.
- Higher cost: Like liquid diamonds, sauce cartridges tend to have a higher price point.
Whether you’re seeking the intense potency of distillate or the full-spectrum experience of live resin, there’s a vape cartridge for every preference. Each type offers different effects that cater to different tastes and experiences.
Explore your options to find the best fit for you!