Vape Carts: Live Resin vs. Distillate
Vaping cannabis has become a popular method for many consumers, offering a discreet, convenient, and flavourful way to enjoy cannabinoids.
When it comes to choosing a vape cartridge, the options can be overwhelming. Two of the most popular types—live resin and distillate—offer distinct experiences, each with its own advantages.
Understanding the differences in extraction processes, flavour profiles, and effects can help you choose the right cartridge for you.
First Things First: What Are Cannabis Extracts?
Cannabis extracts are concentrated forms of the plant’s active compounds, including cannabinoids (such as THC and CBD) and terpenes (which contribute to aroma and effects).
These extracts are made by separating desirable compounds from the raw plant material using various methods like solvent-based extraction or mechanical separation.
People choose extracts for several reasons:
Potency – Extracts typically have much higher THC or CBD concentrations than dried flower.
Convenience – Vape cartridges and other extracts are easy to use, requiring no grinding, rolling, or setup.
Flavour – Many extraction methods preserve or enhance the natural taste of cannabis.
Consistency – With precise THC/CBD levels and predictable effects, extracts are a reliable option for medical and recreational users alike.
Among the many types of extracts available, live resin and distillate stand out as top choices for vape cartridges. Let’s explore how they differ.
Extraction Process: Fresh vs. Refined
Live Resin: Preserving the Plant’s Essence
Live resin is made using fresh, flash-frozen cannabis flower rather than dried and cured plant material. The freezing process helps preserve the plant’s natural terpene profile, ensuring that the final product maintains the full spectrum of flavours and aromas. The extraction is typically done using hydrocarbon solvents like butane or propane in a cold environment to protect these delicate compounds. The result? A rich, terpene-heavy concentrate that offers a true-to-plant experience.
Distillate: A Highly Purified Extract
Distillate, on the other hand, is created through a refinement process that removes almost everything except for pure cannabinoids, usually THC or CBD. The cannabis plant is first extracted using solvents, and then the crude extract is distilled through heat and vacuum pressure to isolate cannabinoids while stripping away terpenes and other compounds. This results in a highly potent, nearly flavourless concentrate that serves as a clean base for vape cartridges. To add back some flavour, manufacturers often introduce botanical or cannabis-derived terpenes post-extraction.
Taste and Aroma: Flavour Explosion vs. Clean and Subtle
Live Resin: Bold and Complex Terpene Profiles
Because live resin retains its original terpene content, the flavour and aroma are much richer and more nuanced. Expect bright citrus, earthy pine, and floral notes, depending on the strain. This makes live resin an excellent choice for connoisseurs who appreciate the natural taste of cannabis.
Distillate: A Smooth, Neutral Experience
Since distillate loses most of its terpenes during processing, the natural flavours of cannabis are minimal. However, infused terpenes—whether from cannabis or other plants—can reintroduce some taste and aroma. These cartridges tend to have a smoother, less pungent inhale, making them appealing for those who prefer a milder vaping experience.
Effects and User Experience: Full-Spectrum vs. High-Potency
Live Resin: A More Naunced High
Thanks to its terpene retention and full-spectrum composition, live resin offers a more well-rounded and entourage-driven experience. Terpenes interact with cannabinoids to enhance and modulate effects, making live resin feel more dynamic. Users often report a more nuanced, strain-specific high that mirrors the experience of smoking flower.
Distillate: Potency at Its Peak
With THC levels often exceeding 90%, distillate is one of the most potent forms of cannabis available. Its effects are typically more straightforward—strong, fast-acting, and focused primarily on THC’s psychoactive properties. If you’re looking for a powerful, no-frills high, distillate is the way to go.
Which One Should You Choose?
For Flavour and a True-To-Strain Experience: Go with live resin.
For High Potency and a Clean, Milder Taste: Choose distillate.
For Precise Dosing: Distillate is often preferred due to its predictable cannabinoid content.
For a Well-Rounded, Full-Spectrum High: Live resin takes the lead.
At Royal Cannabis Haus, we carry a wide selection of vape cartridges, including both live resin and distillate options.
Whether you’re seeking flavour or potency, we’ve got you covered. Stop by our shop in Bells Corners or browse our selection online to discover your next favourite vape cart!