Vapes, dab pens, and carts are some of the most popular products in the cannabis industry. We're huge fans of cannabis concentrates and torchless delivery methods at Dip Devices, so we're totally on board—but here's the thing: many people use these terms interchangeably when they're actually very different devices with distinct purposes.
Whether you're trying to decide between a dab pen and a disposable vape, or you're simply curious about which device is right for your concentrate consumption style, we're breaking down everything you need to know.
What is a Dab Pen?
A dab pen is a rechargeable, refillable vaporizer designed specifically for cannabis concentrates like wax, shatter, and live resin. Think of it as a portable, torchless dabbing solution that gives you control over what you consume.
Dab pens feature durable hardware built to last, typically including a rechargeable battery, a refillable chamber or atomizer, and precise temperature controls. You manually load your chosen concentrate into the chamber, heat it to your preferred temperature, and inhale the vapor—no torch required.
The key advantage? You control exactly what goes into your device. Want to try a new live resin cultivar? Load it up. Prefer mixing different concentrates for a custom experience? Go for it. This flexibility makes dab pens ideal for dedicated concentrate consumers who value quality, sustainability, and customization.
What is a Vape Pen?
When most people refer to vape pens or vapes, they're talking about all-in-one disposable vaporizers that come with a preloaded tank and integrated battery. These devices are designed for single use—once the concentrate or oil runs out (or the battery dies), you toss the entire unit.
Vape pens typically contain cannabis distillate or oil mixed with cutting agents, housed in a sealed cartridge. You simply inhale to activate the device (or press a button), and when it's empty, it goes in the trash. There's no refilling, no maintenance, and no customization.
The appeal is obvious: convenience. But that convenience comes with significant downsides we'll explore below (and we all know how frustrating that last bit of wax in a cart can be when you can't get it out).
Dab Pen vs Vape Pen: Key Differences
Now that we've defined both devices, let's dive into the specific differences that matter most to consumers.
Reusability: Built to Last vs Built to Trash
Dab pens are designed for long-term use. They're constructed from high-quality, durable materials—think medical-grade ceramics, quartz chambers, and sturdy metal housings. With proper maintenance (which is easier than you might think), a good dab pen can last for years.
Vape pens, on the other hand, are intentionally disposable. Once the oil or battery runs out, the entire device becomes waste. This creates a massive environmental problem—disposable vapes contain lithium-ion batteries, plastic, and heavy metals that contribute to growing electronic waste issues.
At Dip Devices, we're pretty vocal about this: disposable vapes are environmentally irresponsible. The cannabis industry should be leading sustainability efforts, not contributing to landfill problems.
Material Compatibility: Freedom vs Restriction
Dab pens work with virtually any type of cannabis concentrate. Wax, shatter, budder, live resin, rosin, crumble, diamonds—if it's a concentrate, you can use it in a dab pen. You can even switch between different products hit by hit, mixing cultivars or adjusting potency on the fly.
Vape pens only work with whatever oil they came preloaded with. You're locked into that specific product until it runs out. If you don't like the flavor, potency, or effects halfway through? Tough luck. You're stuck with it or you're wasting money.
Temperature Control: Precision vs Guesswork
Quality dab pens offer precise temperature control, allowing you to dial in the perfect heat for your specific concentrate and desired effects. Lower temps preserve terpenes for maximum flavor, while higher temps deliver bigger clouds and more intense effects.
Disposable vapes typically operate at a single fixed temperature. You get what you get, regardless of whether it's ideal for the concentrate inside. This often means burnt-tasting hits or underwhelming vapor production.
Cost Analysis: Upfront Investment vs Long-Term Waste
In the short term, vapes appear cheaper than dab pens. You might pay $20-40 for a disposable vape versus $50-150 for a quality dab pen. But here's where the math gets interesting.
With a disposable vape, you're paying for the concentrate, the battery, the hardware, and all the packaging every single time you make a purchase. If you're a regular consumer, that adds up fast—potentially hundreds of dollars per month.
With a dab pen, you invest once in quality hardware, then only pay for concentrate. Cannabis concentrates purchased separately (not in pre-filled carts) are typically more cost-effective per gram. Plus, you use every last bit—no wasted oil stuck in a cartridge you can't access.
If you ask us at Dip Devices, the long-term savings of a dab pen make it the smarter financial choice for anyone who consumes regularly.
Does Dabbing Count as Vaping?
Yes, dabbing is technically a form of vaping. Both processes involve vaporizing cannabis concentrate rather than combusting plant material.
The key distinction is in the device and process. Traditional dabbing with a torch and rig involves heating a nail to extreme temperatures, then applying concentrate to create vapor. Modern torchless dabbing with e-rigs or dab pens uses electronic heating elements to achieve the same vaporization without the flame.
So when someone says they're "vaping," they might mean using pre-filled oil cartridges, or they might mean dabbing concentrates with an electronic device. It's all vaporization—the terms just describe different consumption styles and products.
Dab Pen vs Cart: Understanding Cartridge Systems
Cannabis cartridges (carts) add another layer to this conversation. Let's clear up the confusion.
What is a Cannabis Cartridge?
Cannabis cartridges are prefilled containers of cannabis oil that screw onto separate rechargeable 510-threaded batteries. Unlike disposable vapes, the battery is reusable—you just replace the cartridge when it's empty.
Carts typically contain cannabis distillate or CO2 oil mixed with terpenes (and sometimes cutting agents). They offer a middle ground between completely disposable vapes and fully refillable dab pens.
Is a Dab Pen Just a Cart?
Nope! Dab pens and carts are fundamentally different.
Carts are prefilled with specific oil that you can't change until the cartridge is empty. They're convenient but restrictive—you're limited to whatever product the manufacturer loaded into that particular cart.
Dab pens feature refillable chambers you can load with any concentrate you choose. The hardware is higher quality, built for repeated use rather than disposal after the oil runs out.
Can You Use Both Carts and Concentrates?
Here's where things get interesting: some devices offer multi-function capability. If you want the flexibility to use carts when convenient and load fresh concentrates when you want maximum control, versatile devices like the EVRI from Dip Devices let you switch between 510 cartridges, concentrates, and even flower—all with the same battery base.
This gives you the best of both worlds: grab-and-go convenience when you need it, full customization when you want it.
Are Dab Pens Stronger Than Carts?
The potency of a dab pen depends entirely on the concentrate you load into it. Unlike carts that come with predetermined THC levels, dab pens let you choose your concentrate—and therefore your potency—every single time.
If you load high-THC concentrate like diamonds or pure distillate into a dab pen, it can absolutely be more potent than most pre-filled carts. Plus, the superior hardware in quality dab pens allows for bigger, denser clouds at more precise temperatures, which can intensify the experience.
But here's the real advantage: you're in control. Want a mellow session? Load a CBD-rich concentrate. Looking for maximum potency? Choose a high-THC extract. That flexibility is something carts simply can't match.
How to Use a Dab Pen vs a Vape Pen
Using a Disposable Vape Pen
Using a disposable vape is as simple as it gets:
- Remove from packaging
- Inhale from the mouthpiece (most auto-activate) or press the button if included
- Dispose of entire unit when empty or dead
There's no maintenance, no adjustments, and no learning curve. The downside? There's also no control, no sustainability, and no long-term value.
Using a Dab Pen
Using a dab pen requires a few more steps, but we promise it's easier than you think:
- Charge the battery fully before first use
- Open the chamber and load a small amount of concentrate (rice grain to pea-sized depending on the device)
- Replace the mouthpiece or cap
- Select your desired temperature (start low around 350-400°F for flavor, go higher for bigger clouds)
- Wait a few seconds for the chamber to heat
- Inhale slowly and steadily
- Clean the chamber periodically with isopropyl alcohol and cotton swabs
Once you've done it a few times, the process becomes second nature. And the payoff—better flavor, more control, cost savings, and environmental responsibility—makes the minimal extra effort totally worth it.
Environmental Impact: Why Dab Pens Win
Listen closely, because this matters: disposable vapes are an environmental disaster.
Each disposable vape contains a lithium-ion battery (the same type found in phones and laptops), plastic housing, metal components, and leftover cannabis oil. When thrown in regular trash, these components end up in landfills where they leach heavy metals and toxic chemicals into soil and groundwater.
The scale of the problem is staggering. Millions of disposable vapes are discarded every month in the U.S. alone, creating a growing electronic waste crisis in an industry that should be championing sustainability.
Dab pens offer a dramatically better alternative. A single quality dab pen can replace hundreds of disposable vapes over its lifetime. The rechargeable battery eliminates constant battery waste, and the refillable chamber means you're only disposing of concentrate packaging—not entire devices.
At Dip Devices, we believe the cannabis community should lead the way in environmental responsibility, not contribute to waste problems. That's why all our devices are built for longevity and reusability.
Best Dab Pens and Multi-Function Devices
Now that you understand the differences, let's talk about which devices actually deliver on the promise of superior concentrate vaporization.
Best Dab Pen for Concentrates: The Dipper
The Dipper from Dip Devices is one of the best dab pens on the market for pure concentrate consumption.
The innovative honey dipper design eliminates the need to load a chamber—you simply dip the ceramic tip directly into your concentrate container and inhale. This means zero waste, effortless loading, and the ability to switch between different concentrates instantly without any cleanup.
It's compatible with virtually any type of cannabis concentrate, features three temperature settings for customized experiences, and delivers smooth, flavorful vapor that preserves the terpene profiles of premium extracts.
Best Multi-Function Device: The EVRI
If you want flexibility to use carts, concentrates, and flower all with one device, the EVRI adapts to your lifestyle.
The EVRI features interchangeable attachments for 510-threaded cartridges, a quartz crystal atomizer for concentrates, and a flower attachment for dry herb. Five temperature settings let you dial in the perfect heat for whatever you're consuming, and the compact design makes it incredibly portable.
This versatility means you're never locked into one consumption method. Traveling and want the convenience of a cart? Screw one on. At home and want to enjoy fresh live resin? Switch to the concentrate attachment. It's the ultimate all-in-one solution.
Best Discreet Dab Pen: The Lunar
Whether you're new to dabbing or an experienced consumer who needs something ultra-portable, the Lunar delivers.
The newly updated Lunar features a simple fill-and-go chamber design that looks just like a standard vape pen—making it perfect for discreet use at work, concerts, or anywhere you need to keep a low profile. Four temperature presets give you control without complexity, and the compact size fits comfortably in any pocket.
It's also one of our most affordable options, making it an excellent entry point for anyone transitioning from disposable vapes to reusable dab pens.
Best E-Rig Experience in a Portable Form: The Rover
On the other end of the spectrum, we have the Rover—a portable e-rig that brings desktop-quality dabs to a handheld device.
The Rover includes crystal terp pearls in its quartz chamber for enhanced vaporization and flavor. Precise digital temperature control lets you dial in exact temps from 300°F to 800°F, and the water filtration attachment (sold separately) delivers smooth, cool vapor that rivals traditional dab rigs.
If you're serious about concentrates and want the experience of a high-end e-rig in a portable form factor, the Rover delivers massive, flavorful clouds that put disposable vapes to shame.
Common Questions About Dab Pens vs Vapes
Can You Put Vape Oil in a Dab Pen?
Technically yes, but we don't recommend it. Dab pens are optimized for thicker concentrates like wax and shatter. Vape oil (which often contains cutting agents like PG or VG) can leak through the larger airflow channels in dab pen chambers, creating a mess and potentially damaging your device.
If you want to use both oil carts and concentrates, get a multi-function device like the EVRI that's designed for both.
Are Dab Pens Better for Flavor?
Absolutely. Quality dab pens use ceramic or quartz heating elements that preserve terpene profiles much better than the cheap wicking materials in disposable vapes. Plus, precise temperature control lets you find the sweet spot where flavor is maximized (typically 350-400°F).
When you load fresh, high-quality concentrate into a proper dab pen, the flavor difference compared to pre-filled carts is dramatic.
How Long Does a Dab Pen Last?
A quality dab pen can last several years with proper care. The battery typically remains functional for 300-500 charge cycles (roughly 1-2 years of daily use), and replacement batteries are often available. Atomizers or heating chambers may need replacement every 3-6 months depending on usage frequency.
Compare this to disposable vapes that last maybe a few days to a week, and the long-term value becomes obvious.
Are Dab Pens Legal?
The device itself is legal everywhere—it's just a vaporizer. However, the cannabis concentrates you use in it are only legal in states and countries with legal cannabis programs. Always follow local laws, consume responsibly, and respect private property rules.
Do Dab Pens Smell Less Than Smoking?
Yes, vaporization produces less odor than combustion. Dab pens create vapor rather than smoke, which dissipates more quickly and doesn't cling to clothing or surfaces as strongly. However, cannabis vapor still has a noticeable smell—particularly when using high-terpene concentrates like live resin.
For maximum discretion, use lower temperature settings (which produce less visible vapor) and choose a device like the Lunar that looks like a standard vape pen.
Making the Switch: From Disposables to Dab Pens
If you're currently using disposable vapes and considering a dab pen, here's what to expect:
The Learning Curve is Minimal: Loading a dab pen takes practice, but most people get comfortable within 2-3 sessions. Start with small amounts (rice grain-sized) and work your way up as you learn your device.
The Initial Cost is Higher: Yes, you'll spend more upfront. But calculate what you spend monthly on disposables, and you'll likely find the dab pen pays for itself within 1-2 months.
The Experience is Superior: Better flavor, stronger effects, more control. Once you experience properly vaporized concentrate from a quality dab pen, disposable vapes feel like a downgrade.
You'll Feel Better About Your Impact: There's something genuinely satisfying about eliminating the guilt of constantly throwing away electronic devices. Small switches add up to meaningful environmental impact.
Final Thoughts: Choose Quality Over Convenience
We want to be clear: disposable vapes aren't bad because they're convenient—they're problematic because they prioritize short-term convenience over long-term value and environmental responsibility.
Dab pens require a small upfront investment and a minimal learning curve, but they deliver superior experiences, dramatic cost savings, and sustainable consumption. In our opinion, it's not even a contest.
Whether you choose the versatile EVRI, the innovative Dipper, the discreet Lunar, or the powerful Rover, investing in a quality dab pen means you're committing to better cannabis experiences and more responsible consumption.
At Dip Devices, we're here to help you ditch the torch (and the disposables) and take your concentrate consumption to the next level.
