Dab Pens vs Carts: Which One Should You Choose?

If you're exploring concentrate vaping for the first time, you've likely come across dab pens and vape cartridges and wondered what sets them apart. While both devices are designed to vaporize extracts, they serve different purposes, support different materials, and cater to various user preferences.

This blog simplifies the comparison by breaking down what dab pens and vape carts are, how they differ, and which option best suits your usage style. By the end, you'll have a clear understanding of which vaping device best aligns with your needs.

What Is a Dab Pen?

A dab pen is a portable vaporizer designed specifically for thick, high-viscosity cannabis concentrates such as wax, rosin, shatter, or budder. Unlike cartridges, dab pens feature a heating element (often a coil or quartz dish) that users manually load with their chosen concentrate before each session.

Most dab pens offer adjustable temperature settings, allowing users to fine-tune heat levels based on the type of concentrate. For example, lower temperatures help preserve rosin's flavor, while higher settings maximize vapor production from shatter. Dab pens appeal to users who value control over their vaping experience and don't mind a bit of hands-on preparation.

iKrusher is preparing to launch a disposable dab pen in the near future, offering the same performance benefits in a more convenient format. Stay tuned for more info!

What Is a Vape Cartridge?

A vape cartridge (often called a "vape cart") is a pre-filled or refillable container designed to hold thin, liquid concentrates such as CBD distillate, THC oil, or infused e-liquids. These cartridges are part of a plug-and-play system: attach the cart to a compatible 510-thread battery (the industry standard), activate the battery, and the built-in coil heats the concentrate for vaporization.

Pre-filled cartridges are the most popular option. They’re ready to use out of the box, require no setup, and are discarded once empty. Refillable cartridges allow users to add their own concentrate, but they’re less common and require more handling.

Vape carts are all about convenience, requiring minimal maintenance, no manual loading, and a streamlined experience for everyday use.

Which Device Is Right for You?

The best choice depends on your priorities—whether you value convenience or control—and the concentrate you prefer. Here's a quick guide to help match each device to your needs:

Choose a Dab Pen If…

• You prefer thick concentrates like wax or rosin and want the ability to control your vapor experience by adjusting the temperature for flavor or potency.

• You don’t mind spending a minute or two loading concentrate before each session.

• You’re looking to save money over time (bulk concentrates typically cost less than pre-filled cartridges).

• You value rich, terpene-forward flavor. Dab pens’ adjustable temperature settings reveal more depth and nuance than standard vape carts.

Choose a Vape Cart If…

• You want a hassle-free experience with no loading, cleaning, or temperature adjustments.

• You prefer thin liquid concentrates like distillate, or want a discreet, compact device for on-the-go use.

• You’re new to vaping and looking for a simple, low-risk way to get started, as pre-filled carts require no setup or expertise.

• You vape occasionally and want a convenient option where you use it once, then dispose of it without worrying about storage or maintenance.

In Closing

There’s no single “best” option—only the one that fits your lifestyle and preferences. If you’re undecided, start with a pre-filled vape cart: it’s low-cost, easy to test, and requires no setup. Or, try a friend’s dab pen to see if you enjoy the hands-on experience. Either way, you’ll find the right fit for you and be vaping with confidence in no time.