Every way to use cannabis, compared
There's no single "best" format, just the one that fits what you want. See how the main types of legal cannabis products compare, with links to read more on each.
Classic buds for smoking or vaping. Fast, easy to control.
Pre-rollsReady-made joints, convenient, no rolling required.
VapesHeat without combustion. Fast, less smell, fairly discreet.
EdiblesGummies, chocolate, baked goods. Slow, strong, long-lasting.
BeveragesDrinkable cannabis, often low-dose, an alcohol alternative.
Tinctures & oilsMeasured drops under the tongue. Precise and smoke-free.
CapsulesPre-measured softgels, the most consistent, no sugar.
ConcentratesShatter, rosin, live resin. Very potent, for experienced users.
HashPressed resin, the original concentrate, milder than extracts.
TopicalsCreams and balms on the skin. Localized relief, no high.
At a glance
| Format | Onset | Duration | Smoke-free | Who it suits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dried flower | Minutes | 1 to 3 hrs | No | Any |
| Pre-rolls | Minutes | 1 to 3 hrs | No | Any |
| Vapes | Minutes | 1 to 3 hrs | Yes | Any |
| Edibles | Up to 2 hrs | 4 to 8 hrs | Yes | Start low |
| Beverages | 15 to 60 min | 2 to 6 hrs | Yes | Start low |
| Tinctures & oils | 15 to 45 min | 4 to 6 hrs | Yes | Any |
| Capsules | Up to 2 hrs | 4 to 8 hrs | Yes | Any |
| Concentrates | Minutes | 1 to 3 hrs | No | Experienced |
| Hash | Minutes | 1 to 3 hrs | No | Any |
| Topicals | Varies | Localized | Yes | Any |
Not sure which to pick? The format finder narrows it down in three questions.
New to all this?
Start with the basics, what to expect, how to dose, and how to buy safely.