Introduction: Why People Compare Dabbing and Smoking
The debate between dabbing vs smoking is one of the biggest conversations in smoking culture. Both methods deliver enjoyable sessions, but they’re very different in terms of potency, flavor, and experience.
Dabbing is known for its powerful, terpene-rich vapor, while smoking delivers the classic ritual of burning flower. Choosing between them depends on your lifestyle, budget, and personal preference.
Looking for gear? Explore Encore’s Dab Rigs and Recyclers or our Glass Bongs
What Is Smoking?
Smoking is the traditional method of consuming flower by burning it and inhaling the smoke. It’s simple, accessible, and widely practiced.
Common Tools for Smoking
- Hand Pipes – small, portable, and beginner-friendly.
- Bongs – add water filtration for smoother, cooler hits.
- Joints and Blunts – rolled options, perfect for sharing.
See Encore’s Bongs Collection for modern designs.
What Is Dabbing?
Dabbing is the process of vaporizing cannabis concentrates such as wax, shatter, or oil. These concentrates are much stronger than dry herb and deliver potent, flavorful hits.
Tools You’ll Need for Dabbing
- Dab Rig or Recycler
- Torch and Nail (or an e-nail/e-rig for convenience)
- Dab Tool to handle concentrates
- Carb Cap to control airflow
Shop Encore’s Dab Rigs for setups built for beginners and pros.
Key Differences Between Dabbing and Smoking
- Potency – Dabs are more concentrated and deliver stronger effects.
- Flavor – Dabbing preserves terpenes, making flavors stand out.
- Health – Smoking involves combustion; dabbing avoids burning but requires high heat.
- Experience – Smoking is more social and traditional; dabbing is more intense and ritualistic.
Pros and Cons of Smoking
Advantages of Smoking
- Simple and accessible
- Affordable to start
- Perfect for group sessions
Drawbacks of Smoking
- Harsher on the throat and lungs
- Strong odor that lingers
- Less efficient use of material
Pros and Cons of Dabbing
Advantages of Dabbing
- Extremely potent — a little goes a long way
- Cleaner vapor with better flavor
- More efficient use of concentrates
Drawbacks of Dabbing
- Requires specialized equipment
- Steeper learning curve for beginners
- Higher upfront cost
Cost and Longevity
- Smoking: Flower is cheaper upfront but burns faster, especially in group sessions.
- Dabbing: Concentrates cost more initially but last longer since less is needed per hit.
For frequent smokers, dabbing may be more cost-effective in the long run.
Which Lasts Longer: Dabs or Flower?
Dabs tend to last longer per session thanks to their potency. A small amount of concentrate can deliver multiple hits, while flower often requires more frequent repacking.
Beginner’s Guide: Should You Start with Dabbing or Smoking?
For beginners, smoking is the easier entry point. It’s affordable, requires little equipment, and is easy to share.
Dabbing is best suited for those with a higher tolerance or who want a more powerful, terpene-rich experience. New users can dab, but it’s best to start slow.
FAQs About Dabbing and Smoking
1. Is dabbing stronger than smoking?
-Yes, concentrates are much more potent than flower.
2. Which is healthier?
-Both methods have pros and cons. Dabbing avoids combustion, but both require moderation.
3. Do I need special equipment to dab?
-Yes, you’ll need a dab rig, torch or e-nail, and dab tool.
4. Can you dab flower?
-No, dabbing is designed for concentrates. Flower is best smoked or vaped.
Conclusion: Choosing Between Dabbing and Smoking
So, which is better: dabbing vs smoking? The answer depends on your lifestyle.
- Choose smoking if you want tradition, simplicity, and easy group sessions.
- Choose dabbing if you want potency, efficiency, and rich flavor.
Both methods have their place, and many smokers enjoy switching between the two.
Ready to try? Check out Encore’s Bongs for smooth smoke or Dab Rigs for powerful dabs.