Vaporizing ranks among the fastest-growing modern cannabis consumption methods. Yet newcomers face dizzying choices when purchasing their first vape pens in expanding markets. Prices range from affordable to exorbitant for models that offer different heating systems, battery capacities, oil compatibility, and more.
Heating system styles
Arguably the most significant factor determining pen performance is the heating system style since this component physically converts contained oils into inhalable vapor you enjoy. Conduction, convection, and radiation heaters are the three most common types. Conduction heating directly contacts elements with cartridges using metals like stainless steel or ceramic heating chambers transferring warmth. This style offers cheap, effective builds but slower heat-up and less flavorful vapor.
Convection heating blows hot air through cartridges avoiding direct contact for a cleaner, cooler vapor experience. However, convection units cost more due to complex builds. Radiation (inductive) heating utilizes electromagnetic fields protecting oils from burns and contamination. This innovative method produces the best flavor purity but has limited market availability currently. Beyond the basic heating method, also assesses specific heating materials contacting oils during evaporation. Non-reactive, neutral materials like quartz, titanium, and glass create cleaner vapor than cheaper wires or exposed coils.
Battery capacity
While the heating system controls overall functionality, onboard batteries store power energizing pens functionality. Assess battery life rated by mAh (milliamp-hours). Measurements range from 300 mAh to 950+ mAh, effectively representing runtime lengths before needing recharges. The longer the battery life between charges, the higher the mAh, even if they are more expensive. However, battery metrics tell half the story – your actual usage patterns control runtime more than specs. Factors like voltage output, length/frequency of draws, tank sizes, and oil viscosities determine battery drainage rates alongside raw capacity numbers. Just ensure the chosen battery outputs adequate sustained power for heating system needs.
Do you seek maximum discretion for public use? Intend long outdooring sessions away from chargers? Or desire tabletop powerhouse performance? Determining use environments helps decide ideal form factors for pocketability, portability, and ergonomic comfort holding devices long term. Assess pocket-friendly weights as well as grip shapes/materials that won’t fatigue hands over repeated lengthy sessions. Visual styling also plays a role for those valuing aesthetics. Ensure the sleek looks or compact size doesn’t compromise functionality and heating power.
Tank size and oil compatibility
Pre-filled cannabis oil cartridges quickly became the dominant consumption format thanks to their precision dosing convenience and mess-free experiences. However, vape weed pens accommodate cartridges ranging from 0.3ml to over 1.0ml capacities before needing refills. Higher volume tanks require less frequent switches benefiting those not always near fresh supplies. Also, confirm devices are Designed For (DF) and compatible with your cartridge types intended for use – 510 threaded carts, PAX Era pods, CLIQ pods, etc. Some pens lock you into specific branded cartridges without flexibility while others enable general 510 cart usage. Ensure you easily access the cartridge formats desired.
Perfecting voltage output
Vape batteries regulate voltage electronically transmitted into heating systems – adjusting warmth-reaching oils. Dialing output levels allows customizing experiences to personal preferences. However, most users never utilize these settings wasting functionality. Lower voltages around 2.0v-2.5v preserve terpenes and flavors in live resins and whole plant extracts. However, higher outputs near 3.5v ensure thicker distillates won’t clog airflow with cooler hits. Slowly increase warmth until vapor production is satisfied without overheating the quality product.
