Different Types of Wax Dabs - A Complete Dabbing Guide

Dabbing has taken the cannabis industry by storm - and wax dabs are leading the charge.

Did you know a national web survey conducted in the United States reveals that 58% of people have tried dabs at least once?

But with so many types out there - it can be confusing to choose the right one. Ever wondered what makes shatter different from crumble? Or why do some waxes hit harder than others?

Whether you dab occasionally or on a daily basis - this guide will break down all the types of wax dabs for you.

Ready to find your perfect dab? Keep scrolling!

What is Dabbing?

Dabbing is nothing but a method of consuming cannabis extracts and concentrates. Let’s take a look at a simple definition of dabbing by

“The action or practice of inhaling small quantities of a concentrated and vaporized drug, typically cannabis oil or resin.”

Do you know why it’s called dabbing? Because you use a device called “dab rig” to consume cannabis and get high.  

Here – you simply heat a concentrated form of the plant - such as wax or shatter - on a hot surface known as a nail. The temperature is anywhere between – 400 to 600 degrees or higher. Once heated - the concentrate vaporizes. And then – you can inhale it through a dab rig - which resembles a small water pipe.

But where did the term “dabs” come from? The name comes from the sticky texture of most concentrates and the way they are used. Because concentrates are often tacky, they need to be "dabbed" onto for use.

Did you know? Dabbing delivers a more powerful hit than traditional methods, and it's catching on fast. In fact - statistics show that over 45% of people use dabs regularly. But is it for everyone? Not really. If you're new to cannabis - dabbing might feel too strong. But if you’re looking for a potent experience - dabbing could be your next favorite thing.

Now, you might be curious about how dabs look. Well, the tools used for dabbing come in different forms - ranging from large dab rigs to compact dab pens. And guess what? A full-sized dab rig is quite similar to a bong. The key difference is the nail, which replaces the traditional bowl for flowers.

Cannabis Concentrates, Extracts, & Dabs - What’s the Difference?

 

Term	What It Is
Concentrates	Any cannabis product with higher levels of - THC, CBD, and cannabinoids.
Extracts	A type of concentrate made using solvents like butane or CO2.
Dabs	A method of consuming concentrates by vaporizing them.

 

Many people often get confused between the terms – “extracts”, “dabs” and “concentrates” – thinking they are the same. But they are actually different.

Let’s start with concentrates. They are a broad category that includes - any product made by extracting cannabinoids and terpenes from the cannabis plant.

So, basically - a concentrate can be any cannabis product that has been refined to contain higher levels of - THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids compared to the original plant. This makes concentrates far more potent than regular cannabis flowers. This category includes - waxes, oils, and shatter, among others.

Extracts, on the other hand - specifically refer to products made using solvents like - butane or CO2 to pull out these compounds. The extraction process involves using chemicals - to isolate and concentrate the active compounds from the cannabis plant. So, all extracts are concentrates, but not all concentrates are extracts. Confusing, right?

Now, let’s talk about dabs. Dabs are simply a method of consuming these concentrates - typically by vaporizing them on a hot surface and inhaling the vapor. Wax concentrates are especially popular for dabbing - but other forms like shatter and oils are also suitable.

But hey - not all concentrates are suitable for dabbing. Products like - kief and hash still contain plant material and are better suited for smoking or dry herb vaping. Also, tinctures, being alcohol-based, aren't meant for dabbing either; they're intended for oral consumption.

So, next time you hear someone talking about concentrates, extracts, or dabs - you’ll know the difference.

What About Oil & Hash?

Other terms that can confuse you are – “oil” and “hash”. Let’s see what each one means.

Cannabis oil is a type of concentrate with an oily consistency. You can consume it through - vape pens or add to edibles. Did you know that the majority of cannabis users prefer oil for its convenience?

Hash is one of the oldest cannabis concentrates. It is a refined form of cannabis, created either by compressing a knife or through a method known as bubble hash. It is usually smoked or added to joints.

Now, there are many meanings of these two terms depending on the context.

For instance - the cannabis community marks Oil Day on July 10th, though it’s more than just a nod to cannabis oil—it’s a day to celebrate all forms of cannabis extracts. Interestingly, many people often use the term “hash” when referring to dab extracts like wax and shatter.

What are the Different Types of Wax Dabs?

If you think about cannabis concentrates - wax dabs are among the most popular. The wide variety of wax dabs allows you to enjoy - different textures, flavors, and potency levels. But what exactly are the different types of wax dabs, and how do they vary? Let’s take a look.

Cannabis Oil

Putting cannabis oil on top of the list is a no-brainer. It is probably the most versatile type of concentrate. But it is not the best concentrate for dabbing because of the runny texture. Do you know what it is known for? It has a smooth, liquid consistency, which makes it easy to use in a variety of ways. Vape it – add it to edibles – or simply apply it sublingually - cannabis oil is a go-to for many users. And, it also makes a good base to make other extracts for dabbing. According to recent surveys, over 80% of older adults in Canada reported using cannabis oil.  

Wax

Wax is one of the most common types of dabs. Do you know why? Its soft, sticky texture makes it perfect for dabbing. Wax is created by extracting cannabinoids and terpenes from the cannabis plant using a solvent like butane or CO2. The resulting product is a highly concentrated form of cannabis that offers intense effects. The name "wax" comes from its consistency - which resembles earwax. Wax is a broad term that includes several distinct forms - such as sugar wax, budder, crumble, and honeycomb. If you’re looking for a potent dab that’s easy to work with - wax is a great option.

Shatter

Shatter is the most recognizable types of wax dabs - known for its glass-like appearance. This dab is named for its brittle texture, which shatters into pieces when handled. Shatter is created by purging the extract in a way that results in a hard, transparent concentrate. It’s one of the purest forms of wax dabs - with a high concentration of cannabinoids and terpenes. Did you know? Shatter is a favorite among dabbers for its potency and clean flavor. But hey - its brittle texture can make it a bit tricky to handle - so be careful when breaking off a piece.

Sugar Wax

Sugar wax gets its name from its sugary appearance. This type of dab has a grainy texture that looks like wet sugar crystals. Guess what? It was accidentally created – when extracts that were left out began to crystalize. It’s known for its high terpene content - which means it offers a flavorful and aromatic experience. The best thing about crystals is that they are easy to portion out.

Budder

Budder is known for being one of the purest and most potent concentrates available. Did you know? It contains - around 90% THC and can reach up to 99% purity. The name "budder" is a playful nod to its consistency - which is smooth and easy to scoop up with a dab tool. The process of making budder is quite detailed – it involves whipping the extract during the purging process. The final product has a creamy or golden appearance and a consistency similar to butter. The only drawback is that - budder is usually more expensive than many other concentrates.

Crumble

Crumble is a type of wax dab that has - crumbly, brittle texture. As the name suggests - crumble breaks apart easily - making it one of the most manageable types of wax dabs. You can make it by removing most of the moisture from the concentrate. This will give you a dry, crumbly texture. While it’s easy to handle - crumble can be a bit messy - so it’s best to use it over a clean surface.

Pull ‘n’ Snap (Taffy)

Pull ‘n’ Snap - also known as taffy - is a type of wax dab with a stretchy, taffy-like consistency. This dab is named after the way it’s handled—you pull it and it snaps into smaller pieces. Do you know? Taffy is available in many colors. While it resembles shatter - it has a different texture. Instead of shattering into pieces - it’s more like a piece of taffy and is easy to handle at room temperature. But hey - it can easily become sticky and messy in warmer conditions.

Diamonds

Do the dab extracts need to be full-spectrum? Not necessarily. Diamonds - for example, are similar to crystalline extracts in their high purity and crystal-like appearance but are not full-spectrum. Instead, they consist of a single cannabinoid - like THC or CBD. Due to their high purity - these crystals can be very shiny, much like real diamonds. Guess what? Since diamonds are isolates, - they usually lack flavor and terpenes. But you can always add flavor. How? By combining them with terp sauce when dabbing.

Honeycomb

Honeycomb is a unique type of wax dab with a texture that resembles—you guessed it—honeycomb. This wax gets its name from its porous, honeycomb-like appearance. You can make this extract under low pressure. This allows air to create small holes in the concentrate. Did you know? Honeycomb is more potent and also has great flavor and smell.  

Rick Simpson Oil

Need high THC extract? Rick Simpson Oil - or RSO, is a good choice. It is a type of cannabis oil that’s known for its therapeutic properties. What sets it apart is that – it is made exclusively from female cannabis plants with a THC content of - at least 20%. Named after its creator, Rick Simpson - this oil is made using a simple extraction process that leaves behind a thick, sticky concentrate. RSO is often used for its medicinal benefits - particularly for treating conditions like cancer and chronic pain. You can use it orally or apply it tropically. But you can also use it in dabbing.

Crystalline

This type of dabbing extract looks just like crystals or powder. And this is where it gets the name. Do you know? It is one of the purest forms of THC or CBD - often containing up to 99% purity. Because of its purity – you need to use crystalline in combination with other concentrates.

Terp Sauce

Need flavorful dab extracts? You should try the terp sauce. As the name suggests - terp sauce is a sauce-like concentrate that’s often used to boost the flavor of other dabs. You can make it by separating the terpenes from the cannabinoids during the extraction process - resulting in a syrupy concentrate. If you’re a flavor chaser - terp sauce is the perfect addition to your dabbing experience.

Live Resin

Live resin is unique. Do you know what? Because it is made from fresh, flash-frozen cannabis plants. The key difference between live resin and other concentrates is that – it is made from plants that haven’t been dried or cured. This process preserves the terpenes and cannabinoids. And guess what? You get a concentrate that’s rich in flavor and aroma. Live resin has a sap-like consistency and is perfect for dabbing.

Note:

Most dabs are created using a chemical solvent. Butane and propane are the most widely used solvents.

Did you know? This extraction process takes place in a lab by skilled chemists - who then carefully remove the solvents from the final product.

So, while solventless dabs are available - they tend to be pricier and less common.

Other Popular Concentrates

Did you know? Not all concentrates rely on chemical extraction. Sometimes - you can achieve great results using just - physical methods and temperature control.

Dry-Sift Hash

Let’s start with Dry-Sift Hash, which is one of the oldest methods of making concentrates. It’s made by sifting dried cannabis through fine screens - which separate the trichomes from the plant material. The result is a - fine, potent, and powdery concentrate. Dry-Sift Hash is often pressed into small bricks and can be - smoked, vaped, or added to joints for an extra kick. You can add a bit of resin to the hash if you want to dab it. But, it is mostly used for smoking.

Rosin

Rosin is a favorite among those who prefer solventless extracts. It's made by - pressing cannabis buds between hot metal plates under extreme pressure. This method extracts oil - which then cools and solidifies into a sticky resin. Unlike other concentrates - Rosin doesn’t require any chemicals for extraction. It’s a pure and natural product - known for its high potency and rich terpene profile.

Bubble Hash

Bubble Hash is another popular concentrate, and it’s made using ice water and a series of mesh bags. The process is pretty straightforward. The cannabis is agitated in ice-cold water - which causes the trichomes to break off. These trichomes are then filtered through mesh bags to remove plant material. The name "Bubble Hash" comes from the fact that it bubbles when exposed to heat. Did you know? It is a sign of its purity.

Nug Run vs. Trim Run Wax Concentrates

When it comes to wax concentrates - you might hear terms like "nug run" and "trim run." But what do they mean - and why should you care?

Nug run wax is made from the best part of the cannabis plant - the buds. When making concentrates - the process typically starts with the buds of the cannabis plant - often called "nugs." And, since buds contain more trichomes - which hold the cannabinoids and terpenes - nug run wax is more potent and flavorful. But - because of its higher quality - nug run wax often comes with a higher price tag.

On the other hand - trim run wax is made from the leftover parts of the plant, like - the leaves and small pieces of bud. Instead of letting these go to waste - producers create another batch of concentrates using this leftover material. While it's not as potent or rich in flavor as nug run - trim run wax is still a solid choice - especially if you're looking for something more affordable. Still, they’re not weak—occasional dabbers will likely find them satisfying.

The main difference between the two – taste and potency. Nug run concentrates are more flavorful and aromatic. On the other hand- trim run extracts have more chlorophyll. And guess what? This can lead to a harsher, spicier taste.

The Extraction Process & How Concentrates Are Made?

Are you wondering how simple cannabis buds transform into high-quality extracts and concentrates? Well, there are several methods to achieve this. Let’s take a look at some of the most common ways.

Butane Hash Oil (BHO) Extraction

Butane Hash Oil, or BHO - is one of the most widely used methods for extracting cannabis concentrates. The process involves using butane as a solvent. If you’re using products like - taffy, crumble, or budder - they were likely created through this process.

Did you know? The process itself is quite intricate. It starts with spraying the cannabis plants with butane. This solvent pulls out the cannabinoids and terpenes from the plant material. Afterward, a reactant is used to remove any remaining butane from the extracted material. What’s left is a sticky, amber-colored substance that can be further refined into wax, shatter, or oil.

But hey - butane is a highly flammable gas - so this extraction method is typically done in a controlled environment by professionals.

Supercritical CO2 Extraction

Supercritical CO2 extraction is a top choice for producing high-grade shatter. Guess what? CO2’s extremely cold temperature makes it excellent - for extracting both flavors and cannabinoids from the cannabis plant. In this process - the CO2 is allowed to evaporate - leaving behind a pure cannabis extract. What you get is a - crystal-clear sheet that’s rock-hard at room temperature.

Did you know? This method is considered one of the safest and cleanest because it doesn’t involve any toxic solvents.

Water & Ice Extraction

Water and ice extraction - also known as bubble hash extraction - is a solventless method that uses cold water and ice to separate the trichomes from the cannabis plant. Did you know? It is commonly used to make hash - but can also produce ice wax. In this method – you simply soak cannabis in ice water - then filter the mixture through multiple mesh screens.

The best quality extracts from this method are - light in color. Darker extracts usually contain more plant material - which can add unwanted flavors. Guess what? Water and ice extraction is considered one of the purest methods, as it doesn’t involve any solvents.

Acetone & Alcohol Extraction

Acetone and alcohol are also used as solvents in cannabis extraction - though they’re less common than butane or CO2. These solvents are effective at dissolving cannabinoids and terpenes - but they also tend to pull out other compounds from the plant, like - chlorophyll, which can affect the flavor and color of the concentrate.

The process involves soaking the cannabis plant material in acetone or alcohol to dissolve the desired compounds. The solvent is then evaporated - leaving behind the concentrate. But hey – make sure that no residual solvent remains. Why? Because both acetone and alcohol can be harmful if ingested.

Did you know? Alcohol extraction is often used for making tinctures or Rick Simpson Oil (RSO).

Dry Sieving

Did you know? Dry sieving is one of the oldest methods of cannabis extraction. It involves - shaking plant material through a series of screens - to separate the trichomes from the plant matter. At home - this method is similar to collecting kief from the bottom of a grinder. 

But - in commercial settings - dry sieving is more advanced. Here, multiple screens are used to refine and purify the product further. You can press it into hash or use it as an additive in joints.

Dry Ice Extraction

Dry ice extraction is similar to water and ice extraction - but uses dry ice (frozen carbon dioxide) instead of water. The best part? The process is relatively simple and can be done at home.

So, how it works? Cannabis plant material is placed in a container with dry ice. The mixture is shaken - which causes the trichomes to break off and separate from the plant. The trichomes are then collected using a mesh bag or screen. The final powder should have - a rich cream or golden color.

Wrapping Up

When it comes to wax dabs - the variety can be overwhelming - but that’s what makes it exciting! Did you know that majority of dabbers prefer shatter for its potency and clarity? Or that budder is often chosen for its smooth texture? It’s all about finding what suits your style best.

So, why not take the plunge and try different types of wax dabs? What will be your new favorite? Start experimenting and see which wax dab delivers the experience you’re looking for.