New to the world of cannabis? Don’t worry, we’ve all been there. Whether you’re holding a menu and wondering, “What’s an eighth?” or staring at a vape cart trying to figure out how long it’ll last, it’s easy to feel a little lost. But we’re here to break it down so you can shop confidently and easily.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the basics of cannabis measurements, from flower and vapes to edibles. We’ll explain how much you’re getting, what it looks like, and how it all compares, so you can find what works best for you. Ready to make sense of it all?
Flower Measurements
Let’s start with the basics: cannabis flower. It’s the most traditional way to enjoy cannabis, but terms like “eighth” and “quarter” can feel a little confusing if you’re just getting started. Here’s a simple breakdown to help it all make sense.
Understanding the Sizes
Cannabis flower is sold by weight, measured in grams. At the smallest end, a single gram is great for trying something new. Think of it as just enough for one or two joints or a few bowl packs.
Next is the eighth (3.5 grams), one of the most common sizes. It’s just the right amount for a weekend or a few relaxed sessions. If you’re looking to stock up a bit more, a quarter (7 grams) or even a half (14 grams) gives you plenty of room to explore without running out. And for those who know what they like, an ounce (28 grams) is the ultimate stash—it’s enough to keep you stocked for weeks.
What Does That Look Like?
Picture this:
- A gram is a single nug, small but mighty.
- An eighth fits easily into your hand, like a fun-sized bag of chips.
- A quarter and beyond start to feel more like a mini treasure chest of nugs.
What’s the Right Fit for You?
If you’re new, start small. A gram or an eighth is plenty to get a feel for things. Once you know what you like, you can work your way up to larger amounts. Flower is also versatile. You can roll it, pack it, or even use it to make your own edibles at home.
Vape and Concentrate Measurements
If flower is the classic way to enjoy cannabis, vapes and concentrates are the modern twist. They’re convenient, potent, and perfect for those who want something a little more discreet or long-lasting. But figuring out how much you’re getting and how far it’ll go can feel a bit tricky at first.
Understanding the Sizes
Vapes and concentrates are measured in grams (g) or milligrams (mg), but their potency means you’ll get a lot of mileage out of a small amount.
For vape cartridges, the most common sizes are:
- 0.5g carts: These are great for trying out new strains and usually provide around 80–100 puffs.
- 1g carts: These pack double the size and typically last about 200 puffs, making them ideal for regular users.
Concentrates like wax, shatter, or resin are also sold by the gram. Because they’re highly potent, a single gram can last significantly longer than flower. Think of it as a concentrated burst of cannabis goodness—small amounts go a long way.
What Does That Mean for Dosing?
- With a vape cart, you’re looking at a few puffs per session. It’s a clean, controlled way to enjoy cannabis without overdoing it.
- Concentrates require even less. Whether you’re using a dab rig or a portable device, start with a small “rice grain” size amount.
Tips for Beginners
- Start slow: Vapes hit faster than edibles but can be more intense than flower. Take one or two puffs and wait a moment to gauge how you feel.
- Keep it simple: If concentrates sound a bit intimidating, vapes are a user-friendly way to dip your toes into the world of cannabis beyond flower.
Edibles Measurements
Edibles are a fun and easy way to enjoy cannabis, especially if you’re looking for something smoke-free and long-lasting. They come in all kinds of tasty options, like gummies, chocolates, and drinks, and are measured in milligrams (mg) of THC. For example, a gummy might have 5–10mg of THC, while a chocolate bar could hold 100mg in total, broken into 10 squares with 10mg each. Drinks usually list the THC content for the entire bottle, making it easy to track how much you’re consuming.
One thing to know about edibles: they take a little longer to kick in, usually about 1–2 hours, but their effects last much longer than flower or vapes, often up to 6–8 hours. This makes them a great choice for all-day relaxation. If you’re new, it’s always a good idea to start small with 2.5–5mg and give it time to work before taking more.
Edibles are perfect for anyone who wants a low-maintenance, no-mess experience. Whether you’re into fruity gummies, creamy chocolates, or refreshing drinks, there’s something for everyone. Once you find the correct dose, edibles offer a chill, consistent way to enjoy cannabis without any extra effort.
Comparing Flower, Vapes, and Edibles
Each type of cannabis product has its strengths, and the best choice depends on what you're looking for. Let’s stack them up side by side to see how they measure up.
Potency and Effects
- Flower: Offers mild to moderate effects depending on the strain and your consumption. Effects are quick to set in and tend to last 1–2 hours.
- Vapes: Typically more potent per puff compared to flower. The effects are almost instant and last around 2–3 hours.
- Edibles: The most potent option per serving, edibles take longer to kick in (1–2 hours) but can last up to 8 hours, making them ideal for extended relaxation.
Convenience and Portability
- Flower: Requires some prep work like grinding and rolling, and tools like papers, bowls, or vaporizers. Not the most discreet option but great for home use or social settings.
- Vapes: Highly portable and easy to use, vapes are discreet and perfect for on-the-go consumption. No prep or cleanup required.
- Edibles: Completely fuss-free. No tools, no smoke, and no odor, making them perfect for discreet use anywhere.
Cost Efficiency
- Flower: Often the most affordable option per gram, especially when bought in larger quantities like quarters or ounces. Great for value-conscious shoppers.
- Vapes: A bit pricier upfront, but the long-lasting carts and precise dosing make them a worthwhile investment.
- Edibles: Can be cost-effective if you stick to small doses, but they’re typically more expensive per milligram of THC compared to flower.
Best Fit for You
- Quick and Classic: If you want a traditional cannabis experience with instant effects, flower is a great choice.
- Fast and Discreet: Vapes are perfect for those who need convenience, portability, and quick effects without the fuss.
- Long-Lasting and Fuss-Free: If you’re after an easy, low-maintenance option with effects that stick around, edibles are the way to go.
At the end of the day, it’s about what suits your lifestyle and preferences. Whether you’re packing a bowl, puffing a vape, or snacking on a gummy, there’s a perfect option for every kind of cannabis enthusiast.
Above should not be taken as medical advice.
.svg)
