Vape carts are a favorite among cannabis enthusiasts, and it’s clear why. They’re compact, easy to use, and they are typically very potent and flavorful. That being said, not every vape cartridge is the same.
There are two primary types of extract used in cartridges, and each will have a subtle impact on your experience. In this blog, we’re unravelling the differences between live resin carts vs normal carts. Let’s dive in!
What Is a Live Resin Cart?
Live resin is a type of cannabis concentrate commonly used in vape cartridges. Live resin is very potent and packed with terpenes, which provide a flavourful and aromatic experience. It’s made by flash-freezing freshly harvested cannabis to preserve its natural compounds, then extracting them using solvents like butane or propane. This process locks in the plant’s full taste and scent, making live resin carts a top choice for a flavorful vaping experience.
Live Resin vs Normal Cart?
Most THC vape cartridges contain distillate, which isn’t quite the same as live resin. Distillate carts are usually a little bit higher in THC, reaching up to 95% and higher.
Distillate for vape carts is made by extracting cannabinoids from cannabis using solvents like ethanol or CO2, then refining it through a process that removes impurities, fats, and plant matter.
The extract is then heated to activate the cannabinoids before going through a final distillation step, where THC or CBD is separated and purified into a highly potent, nearly odorless oil. Since distillate lacks natural terpenes, flavors are usually added back in to enhance the experience. This process results in a smooth, consistent vape oil that’s widely used in cartridges.
Live resin carts offer a richer experience because they retain more terpenes, which enhance both the flavor and effects of THC. These terpenes contribute to the strong, dank aroma and complex taste, making each puff more flavorful. Compared to standard distillate carts, live resin provides a fuller, more natural cannabis experience with the plant’s original compounds intact.
That being said, live resin usually doesn’t have as much THC as distillate vape cartridge. Live resin carts typically are usually between 60% and 90% THC.
Benefits of Live Resin Carts
There are a number of reasons some people prefer live resin carts over a distillate cart. If you’re in the market to buy and looking for some quick answers, here’s what you should consider.
- Better Flavor: The presence of terpenes in harvested fresh-frozen buds still feels like you’re smoking real cannabis flower.
- Flash-Freeze Extraction: Extracted from flash-frozen cannabis to preserve natural compounds.
- Entourage Effect: Works with other cannabinoids to enhance the overall experience.
Benefits of Distillate Carts
- More Diverse Flavors: Manufacturers can add different terpenes or flavors to create a variety of taste profiles.
- Highly Refined: Made by extracting and purifying THC or CBD, which removes most natural plant compounds.
- Very High Potency: Ideal for users who want high THC levels without the strong cannabis taste.
Should You Buy Live Resin Carts?
Our answer: it’s well worth considering if you alreayd enjoy, or are interested in trying vape carts. If you’re used to bud and enjoy the natural flavors of cannabis, live resin could be the right choice for you.
Here are a few popular choices you can find at Windy Hill Dispensary in Greenwich, New York!
1. Banana Ghost (IH) Rezinators
2. Jaunty Bloomfruit
Final Thoughts
When deciding between live resin carts vs normal carts, remember: it will all boil down to your preference. If you prefer the higher THC percent and don’t love the natural taste of cannabis, normal carts (distillate) is the way to go. If you want a full-bodied high from start to finish, then go for a live resin cart.
If you’re not sure which cart will be right for you, come to Windy Hill and talk to our budtenders! They’ll help you find the best option based on your preferences, whether you’re looking for potency, flavor, or the perfect balance of both. No pressure, just honest recommendations to enhance your experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long do Live Resin Carts Last?
A newly opened live resin cart can last anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on how often it’s used and the settings on your vape device. Higher temperatures burn through the oil faster and may degrade its quality, while lower heat settings help preserve flavor and potency. Proper storage also plays a role—keeping the cart in a cool, dark place prevents the oil from thickening or drying out. With moderate use and good storage, a 1g live resin cart can last anywhere from two weeks to over two months before running out.
Are Live Resin Carts More Potent Than Distillate?
Not necessarily—whether a live resin cart or a distillate cart is more potent depends on several factors. While distillate carts typically have a higher THC percentage (80-95%), they lack the full range of cannabinoids and terpenes found in live resin. Live resin carts usually contain 60-90% THC but offer a more well-rounded high due to the preserved terpenes and other plant compounds, which can enhance effects through the entourage effect. The strain, extraction process, and freshness of the batch also play a role in the overall experience. If you’re looking for a pure and intense THC hit, distillate is the way to go, but if you prefer a full-spectrum, flavorful, and balanced high, live resin is the better choice.
Can I Use Live Resin Carts with Any Vape Pen?
All 510 thread vape carts will fit on a 510 thread battery. Keep in mind that live resin has a thick consistency, a pen with lower or adjustable voltage may be the way to go for live resin carts.
