They might both get called “vapes,” but do you know the difference between a dab pen vs cart?
A dab cart is a high-tech device that allows you to load concentrates such as wax or badder into a chamber for vaporization, much like a simpler, portable dab rig. A cart, on the other hand, is a pre-filled cartridge of cannabis oil that attaches to a 510-thread battery.
Dab Pen vs. Cart: What to Know Comparing a dab pen vs cart, the dab pen allows you to load bulk concentrate, while the simpler cart option comes pre-filled with cannabis oil for use with a pen. Let’s dive into how they differ, which one hits harder, and how to pick the best one for your tastes and needs.
Dab Pens vs Carts: Exploring the Differences
There’s a lot of similarities between a dab pen and a cart. But if we had to narrow the distinction down to one core difference, it’s that a dab pen allows you to load loose concentrate into a specialized chamber, while a cartridge comes pre-filled with oil and is typically designed to thread onto a 510-style battery.
There’s more to know, of course. But first, to avoid any confusion, we are comparing “dab pens vs carts” as opposed to “dab vs cart.” That’s because a dab and a dab pen are two different things. A dab is a single dose of concentrate, while a dab pen is a device that allows you to consume one.
You can learn much, much more about dabs at our Guide to Cannabis Concentrates.
What is a Dab Pen?
A dab pen is a device that allows you to load loose concentrate such as wax, shatter, live resin, or budder directly onto a coil or a chamber. As such, it’s a user-loaded piece of gear that’s designed to be durable, reuseable, and down for the long haul.
What is a Cart?
This pre-filled, screw-on cartridge comes pre-filled from a licensed dispensary with no loading required. Filled with cannabis oil, it attaches to a standard 510-thread battery, making it easy to swap out for other strains and styles.
| Device Type | Concentrate/Material Used | Potency Range | Maintenance | Portability/Size |
| Dab Pen | Dab pens typically vaporize thicker, more viscous concentrates such as wax, shatter, rosin or budder, which are manually loaded onto a coil or heating chamber. | Dab pen concentrates tend to run at high potency, often 60% to 90%+ THC. This is because they’re minimally processed, highly concentrated forms of extract. | Dab pens require more upkeep, such as regular cleaning of the coil/chamber to prevent residue buildup, and periodic coil replacement as it wears out from repeated use. | Dab pens are often slightly bulkier due to the loading chamber requirements, plus the potential need to carry extra concentrate and a dab tool. |
| Cart | Cannabis carts use pre-filled, thinner oil formulations housed in a sealed cartridge that screws onto a 510-thread battery. | Cart oils generally range from 50% to 85% THC, with some variation depending on how much the oil has been diluted with cutting agents. | Carts are largely maintenance-free since they’re disposable or easily swapped once empty, with no cleaning of internal components needed. | Carts are more compact and discreet, often resembling a slim pen, making them easier to carry and use on the go without extra accessories. |
Need to brush up on terms? Get familiar with concentrate types at our How to Use Concentrates guide.
The Key Materials & Design
So far, we’ve focused mainly on what goes inside a dab pen vs cart. But it’s the device itself that really separates these, not just the product! Here’s how each one breaks down in terms of the tech:
How Dab Pens Are Built
Study a dab cart diagram and the major feature you’ll see is an electrically heated coil or chamber typically made of ceramic or quartz. While this means it will work with multiple concentrate textures and styles, it also necessitates manual cleaning.
How Carts Are Built
With a sealed cartridge design and a built-in, non-replaceable ceramic coil, this is a disposable one-and-done design (though many are rechargeable). This also means it’s extra-portable, with no special cleaning required.
Curious how other concentrates stack up? Check out our Kief vs. Hash Explainer.
How to Use a Dab Pen or Cart
Whether you choose a dab pen vs cart, the mechanics are easier than they look! Here’s what an actual session for each style involves:
How to Use a Dab Pen
Start by loading concentrate into the chamber (or with more liquid concentrates, onto an optional pad). Power on the device as outlined in the user manual, draw gently, and exhale after a second or two.
Pro tip: Inhale as though you’re taking brief sips of hot tea. Follow the manufacturer’s guidance for cleaning carefully, remembering that a clean and well-maintained device will provide the longest, most trouble-free and potent sessions.
How to Use a Cart
Unlike a dab, carts screw directly onto the battery. Adjust the voltage if this option is available (lower temps mean greater terpene expression, while higher temps can deliver greater potency). Puff as above for the dab pen, and allow it to power down when complete.
Which One Hits Harder?
The device makes a difference, but the actual potency depends more on what’s inside than the unit itself. Here’s how they break down:
Potency in Dab Pens
Thanks to their ability to handle full-spectrum concentrates such as live resin, diamonds, and others, the potency can run higher than nearly any device beside an actual dab rig.
Potency in Carts
While distillate oil is consistently potent, it’s often blended with terpenes or cutting agents that may shape the experience. As a result, the effects can feel smoother or more nuanced versus a dab pen.
Speaking of concentrates, do you know how they’re made? Start with our Cannabis Concentrates pillar page, and visit our Terpene Guide to understand how these aromatic oils add nuance to the overall experience.
Dab Pen vs. Cart: Which One Fits You?
There’s no wrong answer when it comes to choosing a dab pen vs cart (and if you visit one of our Montana locations, our friendly budtenders are always ready to help!). But in case you don’t have access to one, here’s some guidance.
When a Dab Pen Makes Sense
If you’re the type who wants maximum choice and maximum control over concentrate type, texture, and the overall parameters of the smoking session, a dab pen is probably the call. Of course, there is maintenance required, but we know you’re up to the challenge!
When a Cart Makes Sense
If you’re more into portability, a consistent and trouble-free draw, and the security of a no-mess situation, the cart is your buddy here. In our experience, it’s particularly great for newer consumers or those who prefer to take their fun on the go.
Find Your Fit at Seed of Life Labs
When it comes to dab pens vs carts, one isn’t better than the other, it’s really all about personal preference and finding your own vibe.
Here at Seed of Life, we stock the top-tier Montana-produced concentrates. Visit any of our Montana locations and experience them for yourself!
FAQs About Dab Pen vs. Cart
No. The dab pen allows you to load loose or bulk concentrate, while the cart comes pre-filled with cannabis oil for use with a pen.
It depends largely on the concentrate used. But an important dab vs cart distinction is that using a full-spectrum concentrate in a dab pen can exhibit more potency than the distillate oil used in standard carts.
No. Comparing a dab pen vs cart, the devices aren’t interchangeable. In fact, using the wrong material can damage the device.
In general, a cart is slightly more forgiving and intuitive to use than a dab pen, especially for new consumers. There’s no loading or cleaning required, and many find it offers a more predictable draw.
Yes. Because standard dab pens utilize a coil or heating chamber, they require regular cleaning and light upkeep. By comparison, a sealed cart requires zero maintenance and is considered plug and play.
