Edibles vs. Smoking & Vaping: Which Is Right for You?

Whether you’re new to cannabis or looking to try a different consumption method, one of the most common questions we hear at Thrive Dispensaries is:

“Should I go with edibles, smoking, or vaping?”

Each method offers a unique experience—from how quickly you feel the effects, to how long they last, to what kind of high you get. Understanding the differences between ingesting cannabis (edibles) and inhalation methods (smoking and vaping) can help you choose what best fits your lifestyle, health preferences, and desired effects.

1. What Are Edibles, Smoking, and Vaping?

Edibles

Cannabis edibles are foods or drinks infused with cannabinoids like THC and CBD. Popular products include:

• Gummies
• Chocolates
• Baked goods
• Beverages
• Capsules 

When you eat an edible, your body metabolizes THC through the liver, which converts it into 11-hydroxy-THC—a more potent, longer-lasting form of THC.

Smoking

Smoking involves inhaling cannabis smoke from:

• Joints
• Pipes
• Bongs 

The cannabinoids enter your bloodstream almost immediately through the lungs, producing a fast onset of effects.

Vaping

Vaping heats cannabis flower or concentrates (like oils) at a lower temperature than combustion, creating vapor instead of smoke. Devices include:

• Vape pens (disposables or cartridges)
• Dry herb vaporizers
• Dab rigs (for concentrates) 

2. Onset Time: How Fast Do You Feel It?

One of the biggest differences between these methods is how quickly you feel the effects.

Method	Onset Time	Duration
Edibles	30 mins to 2 hours	4 to 8 hours (sometimes longer)
Smoking	1 to 5 minutes	1.5 to 3 hours
Vaping	1 to 5 minutes	1.5 to 3 hours

Takeaway:
If you want fast relief or instant euphoria, smoking or vaping is your best bet. If you prefer a slow-build and longer-lasting high, go with edibles—but start low and go slow.

 

3. Potency and Effects: What’s the Experience Like?

Edibles

• Tend to feel more intense, especially for newer users.
• Effects are often described as full-body, with a deeper, more sedative high.
• Great for chronic pain, sleep, and stress relief.
• Easy to overconsume because effects are delayed. 

Smoking & Vaping

• Provide more control over your high—smaller, incremental dosing.
• Effects are felt almost immediately, making it easier to adjust.
• Smoking may produce a more cerebral high, while vaping can offer a cleaner, smoother experience.
• Better for daytime use or quick symptom relief. 

Thrive Tip: If you’re looking for a manageable experience, vaping is often a gentler introduction to cannabis than high-dose edibles.

 

4. Health Impacts: Which Is Safer?

Smoking

• Involves combustion, which can irritate the lungs.
• Produces tar and other harmful byproducts, similar to smoking tobacco.
• Not recommended for people with respiratory issues. 

Vaping

• Considered less harsh on the lungs than smoking.
• No combustion means fewer carcinogens.
• Be cautious of unregulated vape products—always buy from licensed dispensaries like Thrive. 

Edibles

• No impact on lungs—ideal for those with respiratory concerns.
• Gentler on the body overall, but digestive issues can sometimes occur.
• Ideal for medical patients or those avoiding inhalation entirely. 

Winner: For health-conscious consumers, edibles and vaping are often the preferred choices over smoking.

5. Discretion and Convenience

Category	Smoking	Vaping	Edibles
Odor	Strong, lingering	Minimal to moderate	Nearly odorless
Portability	Low (requires tools, fire)	High (discreet pens)	Very high (like candy)
Discretion	Least discreet	More discreet	Most discreet

If discretion is your priority—whether you’re around family, roommates, or in public—edibles or vape pens are your best option. No rolling, no smell, no hassle.

6. Cost and Value

Smoking

• Flower is generally the most cost-effective option.
• Buying in bulk can save money, but you’ll need accessories (papers, lighters, grinders). 

Vaping

• Initial cost for a good-quality vaporizer can be high.
• Vape carts are more expensive per mg of THC but offer convenience and efficiency. 

Edibles

• Higher price point per dose.
• You’re also paying for the food product, packaging, and precise dosing. 

Pro Tip from Thrive: If you’re on a budget, smoking cannabis flower tends to give you more bang for your buck. But for convenience and long-lasting effects, the higher price tag of edibles or vapes might be worth it.

7. Who Should Choose What?

Choose Edibles If You:

• Prefer a smoke-free experience
• Want longer-lasting relief (e.g., for chronic pain or sleep)
• Can wait for the effects to kick in
• Are in a setting where discretion is key 

Choose Smoking If You:

• Want instant effects
• Enjoy the ritual of rolling or packing bowls
• Are okay with the smell
• Prefer a traditional, classic cannabis experience 

Choose Vaping If You:

• Want fast onset with less lung irritation
• Need a portable, discreet method
• Want a more controlled and efficient dose
• Value cleaner flavor and smoother hits 

Which Cannabis Method Is Best for You?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—each method has its perks. Whether you’re microdosing to stay creative or seeking deep relaxation after a long day, the best method comes down to your goals, lifestyle, and preferences.

If you’re unsure where to start, our knowledgeable team at Thrive Dispensaries is here to help guide your journey. From top-shelf flower and delicious gummies to premium vape cartridges, we’ve got something for everyone.