Vaporisers

Are you wondering which vapouriser to choose to start with? At Dr Ziółko, we’ll help you find the best model to suit your needs. We offer both battery-powered devices and those that simply require a gas burner to operate. Vaporisers allow you to use dried herbs, cannabis isolates and concentrates, and even other herbs or tobacco. How does a vaporiser work? Is it worth using one? How do you choose the best vaporiser and what should you look out for?

Vaporisation – what is it?

Vaporisation is simply the process of evaporating herbs to extract the desired active compounds. To achieve this, dried herb (or oil or wax) is heated to the boiling point specific to that plant. The active ingredients, in the form of vapour, are delivered to the body through inhalation.

Vapourisation versus smoking – what are the differences?

It is worth noting the differences between vaporisation and smoking. These are evident not only in how they work, but also in their impact on health. During vaporisation, the herbs are heated but not burnt. Consequently, smoke laden with tar – which impairs respiratory function and can lead to numerous illnesses – does not enter the lungs. Smoking also has low bioavailability – many substances are simply burnt off, and the body is only able to absorb around 40% of all the active ingredients from the dried herb (by comparison, vapourisation offers more than twice the bioavailability). Find out more about this here!

Vapourisation – pros and cons

Vaporisation is becoming an increasingly popular choice due to its numerous benefits.

• Vaporisation has a beneficial effect on health. Reducing smoke and the inhalation of tar-like substances allows you to enjoy the health benefits of the inhaled herbs without putting a strain on your lungs. As a result, vaporisation is ideal for patients who wish to benefit from the effects of plants but are unable to smoke due to respiratory problems. 
• Vaporisation is discreet. Using herbs has never been so discreet. The device generates vapour that lingers in the air for only a moment and, unlike smoke, dissipates quickly. As a result, only the user can enjoy the scent of the vaporised herbs. Furthermore, the device itself is designed to be unobtrusive – many models feature a matt finish and are black in colour.
• Vaporisation allows you to… save money! Although buying a vaporiser may seem expensive, it’s worth noting just how efficient the device is. A single filling of the chamber (in most models, between 0.1 and 0.25 grams of dried herb) is enough for several sessions, which fully meets the needs of most users. What’s more, the dried herb undergoes decarboxylation during vaporisation, which means it is safe to consume and, in practice, can be reused – for example, in the kitchen for home baking.

In fact, the only ‘drawback’ of vapourisation is the need for the right equipment, which often involves a fairly significant initial outlay. A really good CBD vaporiser can be bought for as little as 500 zlotys – depending on the model and intended use, devices usually cost between 300 and as much as 2,500 zlotys. It is worth remembering, however, that this is a one-off expense which, moreover, pays for itself very quickly, as a vaporiser is efficient and allows you to make significant savings on future purchases and consumption of dried herb.

Vaporiser – how to use it?

Using a vaporiser is not complicated. Most devices are very straightforward to operate, so even novice users will have no trouble getting to grips with them. The first step is to fill the chamber. You can use, for example, CBD dried herb, medical cannabis or other herbs for this purpose. Some models are designed for vapourising oils and concentrates – for this, it is usually necessary to fit a special cartridge. When using a vaporiser, all sorts of accessories, such as a tamper or a brush, also come in handy – they make filling the chamber even easier and more convenient.

To switch it on, you either hold down the relevant button for a few seconds or press it several times – this is to prevent the vaporiser from accidentally switching on in your pocket. The other buttons are used to adjust the temperature – the range varies depending on the specific model. Once the vaporiser has heated up – often indicated by a vibration alert, a message on the display or the chamber lighting up – you can begin inhaling and enjoy the health benefits of the dried herb. When you buy a device from Dr Ziółko, you can be sure that we’ll provide you with all the necessary information about it!

How do you clean a vaporiser?

To ensure the device is always ready for use, it’s worth taking care of it regularly. After each use, it’s a good idea to clean the chamber of any remaining herb residue. This prevents them from sticking to the walls or burning during the next session, which would spoil the flavour. A soft brush or toothbrush – often included with the vaporiser – works perfectly for this. 

In addition, it’s worth giving the device a more thorough clean every few sessions. You can use isopropyl alcohol for this. It disinfects the surface and has a neutral odour that won’t be noticeable during vapourisation. Simply soak the metal and glass parts in it, and once the dirt has softened, rinse with warm water. Stubborn dirt can be removed with a cotton bud soaked in isopropyl alcohol. You can also use it to clean the inside of the chamber, but you must take care not to accidentally spill liquid into the vaporiser and damage the electronics. Wooden parts, on the other hand, simply need to be wiped with water – a solvent could cause permanent damage to them.

What should you look out for when choosing a vaporiser?

Given the ever-increasing number and availability of vaporiser models, choosing the right device can be quite difficult. That’s why at Dr Ziółko you can count on our help. We’ll advise you on what to look out for when making a purchase.

Portable or desktop vaporiser?

A portable vaporiser, as the name suggests, is designed to be always at hand. You can easily take the device almost anywhere and enjoy vapourising wherever you are. Most often, these devices are battery-powered (with the exception of manual vaporisers) and are characterised by their compact size. A stationary vaporiser, on the other hand, is the best solution for those who prefer to use herbs in the comfort of their own home. To be able to vapourise, you need access to a power source. Stationary vaporisers are a worthwhile investment – they provide significantly better vapour quality than portable devices, as well as a more efficient heating element. What’s more, they’re always ready for use and there’s no need to constantly recharge the battery.

Manual or electric vaporiser?

You’ll find two basic types of vaporisers in shops: manual and electric. The first are devices operated by hand. A manual vaporiser contains no electronics whatsoever (including batteries), which means there is no need for frequent recharging. For many people, this is definitely a more convenient solution, as the devices can be used almost anywhere and are always ready for use – all you need is a gas lighter.

Electric vaporisers, on the other hand, are battery-powered. This is a very convenient solution. However, it is important to bear in mind that the vaporiser needs recharging, and depending on the specific model, the battery lasts on average between 40 and 90 minutes of continuous use.

Conduction, convection or hybrid heating?

The devices available also differ in the way they heat the dried herb. We can distinguish between convection and conduction vaporisers, as well as a combination of the two – hybrid devices. What is the difference?

• Conductive vaporiser. In this case, the dry herb is heated directly by a heated surface. The chamber walls are subjected to high temperatures, which then transfer heat to the dried herb inside. This design is typically used in small, pocket-sized devices. Conduction allows you to enjoy the rich aroma of the vapourised herbs, though it is worth noting that it is less efficient than, for example, convection. A great example is the Vivant VLeaF Go.
• Convection vaporiser. The herb in the chamber is not heated by contact with hot metal, as in the case of conduction, but by a stream of hot air. Convection heating requires a slightly more complex mechanism, which is why it is usually found in desktop vaporisers. Convection is the most efficient way to use herbs and, what’s more, it produces high-quality, dense and aromatic vapour. It is worth remembering that the herb in the vaporiser chamber needs to be stirred regularly every few inhalations. An example of a convection device is the XMAX V3 Pro.
• Hybrid vaporiser. This device combines both conduction and convection, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of both methods. The herb is heated simultaneously by the chamber walls and a stream of warm air. Depending on the specific model, the proportions of convection and conduction may vary slightly. Hybrid vaporisers are economical and highly efficient. This device is ideal as a vaporiser for beginners and for those who do not want to choose between conduction and convection. An example of a hybrid vaporiser is the Fenix Mini.

Session or on-demand vaporiser?

There is another basic distinction between devices – session-based and on-demand.

• A session-style vapouriser uses all the material in the chamber. The device heats the herb until it has been completely vaporised. This approach has both advantages and disadvantages. The main benefit is a significantly longer inhalation. Between inhalations, the inside of the chamber is constantly heated. For those who like to pause their vaping session and reuse the dry herb multiple times, this isn’t the best solution, as it leads to a waste of material. Session-based devices are the best solution for users who enjoy an evening’s relaxation with a vaporiser in hand or a get-together with a larger group of friends.
• An on-demand vaporiser allows for significantly shorter sessions. This is made possible by a mechanism that not only heats up quickly but also cools the chamber almost instantly, ensuring that the herb is exposed to heat only whilst inhalation is taking place. It will not, however, be heated during breaks, making vaporisation far more efficient and significantly reducing waste. On-demand vaporisers are the best solution for those who want to make the most of the chamber’s contents and value quick and effective inhalation sessions.

Vaporising herbs and dried plant material – the temperature range matters

Another difference between the vaporisers available in shops is the temperature range. In some models, herbs can be used at temperatures as low as 40 degrees. This makes it possible, amongst other things, to vapourise CBD and medical cannabis – the ideal temperature for maximising the active substances ranges from 160 to 220 degrees. Devices operating at lower temperatures can also be used to inhale other medicinal herbs. The boiling points of more delicate plants, such as chamomile, lemon balm, mint and hops, start at 100 degrees. This is an excellent solution for those who value the health benefits of herbs and wish to try a method of consumption other than making an infusion. What’s more, the XMAX Starry 3.0 vaporiser is also available on the market; it can reach a maximum temperature of 240 degrees, making it one of the few devices in which tobacco can also be heated.

A vaporiser for oils, dried herbs or concentrates?

Many devices allow you not only to use herbs, but also to vapourise oils and concentrates. To do this, simply choose a suitable model equipped with accessories such as a chamber or a special cartridge for vapourising concentrates (sometimes you can buy accessories designed specifically for a particular device). The SMONO 3.4 and Fenix Mini, amongst others, are excellent choices as vaporisers for CBD oil or concentrates.

Vaporiser or bong – which is better?

The difference between a vaporiser and a bong is huge. In a vaporiser, the herb isn’t burnt, but simply heated to the boiling point of the active compounds, allowing them to be released along with the vapour. A bong, on the other hand, is still based on combustion, and differs from a classic joint or pipe in that it features additional water filtration. The water in the bowl helps to clean and cool the smoke to some extent. Although a bong can reduce the amount of tar, unlike a vaporiser, it does not eliminate it completely. For this reason, a vaporiser is by far the healthier – and more effective – option.

For those who enjoy the ritual of using a bong, we have some good news! An excellent solution that allows you to use a water pipe whilst completely eliminating tar is to combine a classic bong with a vaporiser. The DynaVap M 2020 (as well as newer and older models) or the Fenix Mini, for example, work very well. The only requirement is the additional purchase of a special adapter, which allows the device to be attached to the bowl.

Another option is bubblers. These are small water filters that attach directly to the device and also serve as a mouthpiece. They’re usually made of glass and can be easily filled with water, ensuring that the vapour is not only cooled but also properly humidified. This helps eliminate the risk of throat irritation and further enhances the comfort and enjoyment of vaping.

How to choose a vaporiser? Ranking of the best models

At Dr Ziółko, we ensure a wide selection of different vaporiser models, so there’s something for everyone :)

• Fenix Mini. Most people start their journey with the Fenix Mini, which is compact and exceptionally easy to use. With a temperature range of 160 to 220 degrees, it’s perfect for vapourising both CBD herbs and medical cannabis. You can also opt for a version with a wooden casing or a titanium chamber – the Fenix Titanium, in addition to having a more durable and easier-to-clean chamber, also features a battery check function and a wider temperature range, starting as low as 138 degrees Celsius.
• DynaVap VapCap M. Another option is the manual vaporiser from DynaVap. Its greatest advantage is, above all, the absence of any electronics, meaning there is no need to charge it. For many people, simply heating the device with a gas burner is a ritual in itself, without which they cannot imagine vapourising. The DynaVap produces high-quality, aromatic and cooled vapour, which is surprising for a pocket-sized vaporiser of such compact dimensions.
• XMAX Starry 3.0. For those looking for a device that allows them to vapourise not only cannabis but also tobacco and other herbs, the XMAX Starry 3.0 is an interesting option. It boasts many additional features not even found in more expensive models. Its biggest advantages are the replaceable battery and the ability to vapourise at temperatures ranging from 100 to 240 degrees.
• XMAX V3 Pro. This is one of the most versatile devices available. It allows you to use both session mode and on-demand mode. As a result, the vaporiser adapts perfectly to the user’s needs and performs well in all circumstances. In addition, the XMAX V3 Pro is also fitted with a replaceable battery and offers a wide temperature range from 100 to 220 degrees.

For those looking for a top-of-the-range device, a medical vapouriser is the best option. It is primarily designed for patients who use medical cannabis. The first option is the now iconic Mighty vaporiser or its upgraded version, the Mighty+. It stands out primarily for its durable materials, precise temperature control and a high-capacity battery. The Crafty+vapouriser also offers the same quality, albeit in a slightly smaller size. Both models are among the best dry herb vapourisers available on the market.