Cannabis vape cartridges are becoming more and more popular with new consumers. However, not all cartridges are created equal. The contents of a cartridge can vary greatly, from distillates to CO2 oils to full-spectrum extracts like live resin. Cartridges offer a discrete, easy-to-use inhalation experience that many patients find helpful for managing symptoms. Here’s all you need to know about them!

What is a vape cartridge?

A vape cartridge is a small glass container that holds half or a full gram of cannabis oil. Cannabis oil contains various terpenes and cannabinoids that are released when it is heated, creating vapor that you inhale. Cannabis vape cartridges are simple and easy to use, making them a popular concentrate-based item for novice and experienced users. Depending on the manufacturer, cannabis oils can be formulated to achieve specific effects and flavors. Some specialized cannabis oil vape cartridges, like these THCa Carts, feature a combination of carefully selected terpenes to mimic the effect profile of a particular strain of cannabis. The more potent the terpenes, the stronger the effects and flavor.

The less potent options are also available to experience more subtle effects. However, balancing the potency with your tolerance and response levels is important to maximize your potential for an optimal vaping experience. To use a cannabis cartridge, screw it into a compatible battery until the connection is snug. The battery will supply power to an atomizer within the cartridge, heating it and activating its cannabinoid compounds, which you inhale. Some batteries are designed with features that enable temperature customization and dose management, which can further enhance your experience. Cartridges are a convenient alternative to more involved methods of consuming cannabis oil, such as using a dab rig and nail setup.

What are the different types of cartridges?

Cannabis cartridges have quickly become a favorite way to consume cannabis. They are portable, discreet and often less intense than flowers. They can also deliver a much stronger high at the same time as smoking, and many patients prefer vaping over ingestion by mouth. A wide variety of cannabis concentrates can be loaded into a cartridge and used to deliver an inhalable dose of cannabinoid vapor. The quality of the cannabis oil used in a cartridge can greatly impact vapor production, flavor and effects. Cartridges are available in 0.5ml or 1ml capacities. The capacity of a cartridge determines how many milligrams of cannabis are dispensed per pull. It’s important to consider your consumption habits when selecting a cartridge size, as the smaller 0.5mL option may be enough for occasional users. In contrast, heavy or consistent users choose the larger 1ml cartridge.

Some types of cannabis oil require additives to thin them out for vaporization, such as polyethylene glycol or vegetable glycerin. However, some cartridges are designed without additives and use natural thinning agents like terpenes and coconut oil for a cleaner and more realistic experience. Some cartridges are meant to be refilled for added convenience and portability. Refillable cartridges can be filled with cannabis oil from concentrate producers, enthusiasts who make their oils and retailers that purchase oils in bulk to sell. Most cartridges feature 510-thread connectors that easily screw onto standard vape batteries. It’s best to double-check that a new cartridge and battery are compatible before purchasing. 

How do they work?

Vape cartridges are a convenient way to enjoy cannabis. They are small and discreet, making them perfect for people on the go. They also allow for a more controlled experience than smoking, which can be unpredictable and potentially dangerous. A vape cartridge consists of a chamber that contains cannabis oil and an atomizer, which heats the oil to create vapor for inhalation. A vape cartridge is one of the most popular ways to consume cannabis, and it offers many benefits over other consumption methods like smoking. Cartridges come pre-filled with various concentrates, such as distillate and CBD oils. They are often flavored with natural terpenes, adding flavor and aroma to the oil while helping it reach the correct cartridge consistency. These terpenes can be extracted from the plant or other sources, such as coconut oil or vegetable glycerin. Once the concentrate has been loaded into the cartridge, the user can start using it by attaching it to a battery and pressing the button to inhale. Cartridges are also available with a built-in mouthpiece that makes them easy to use. The mouthpiece allows the user to inhale through the device and is often shaped to provide a comfortable fit in the mouth.

How do I use a vape cartridge?

Cartridges offer a quick and discreet way to inhale cannabis. They are popular with new consumers because they’re easy to use and provide an instant high.  A typical cartridge has a mouthpiece designed to fit comfortably against the lips so the user can inhale through it. The cartridge is attached to a battery, which needs to be charged before each use. Some batteries switch on immediately when attached, while others require five clicks. To use the device, the user presses the button on the battery and draws in air through the mouthpiece. The airflow warms the cartridge’s oil, creating a vapor plume that can be inhaled. Some devices have a button to press while inhaling, which can help control the dose and temperature of the vapor. Cartridges can be refilled with fresh cannabis oil using a syringe. The refillable models usually have a threaded opening that can be screwed onto a plastic or metal syringe with a minimum capacity of 5 ml. The process is simple and fast, but the user must be careful when screwing the cartridge to prevent an oily mess.