Cannabis concentrates have become increasingly popular in the last couple of years due to their higher potency, richer flavour, and various consumption methods. Using shatter or live resin for your next dab? Knowing the difference between the two can help new and seasoned users make informed choices.
In this guide, we break down commonly found types of cannabis concentrates, their textures, extraction methods, flavor profiles, as well as ideal uses. In the end, you will be well-equipped to select the best concentrate for your needs.
What Are Cannabis Concentrates?
Cannabis concentrates are products where the cannabinoids (THC, CBD, etc.) and terpenes of the cannabis plant have been taken out and made more potent. The THC percentage of these products can be as high as 90%, far higher than conventional flowers.
Concentrates are not just about potency—extraction techniques also preserve terpenes, giving these products unique qualities and aromas.
Key Factors to Consider.
When choosing a concentrate, consider.
What is the texture and form? Is it brittle, sticky, or creamy?
Extraction Method: Solvent-based vs. solventless.
Does it keep the plant’s aroma and flavour?
How severe are the effects?
Are you dabbing, vaping, or infusing them into your edibles?
- Shatter.
Shatter has a glassy appearance and is brittle, usually amber or golden. It breaks easily when handled.
Extraction technique is primarily solvent-based butane, propane and CO2, then cleaned up carefully.
Potency and Flavor: It has a high THC level of around 50-90%, although it may be missing terpenes in comparison to fresh-extracted concentrates.
Best for experienced users who want maximum potency with a dab rig.
Pros & Cons.
Pros: Pure, strong, long-lasting.
Disadvantages include fragile, lower flavor retention, and special handling needed.
Look out for transparent sheets, lab-tested THC/terpene content, and low residual solvents.
Explore our Shatter Collection →.
- Wax, Budder & Crumble.
Texture & Form.
- Wax: Soft, pliable, sticky.
- Budder: Whipped, creamy, like frosting.
- Crumble: Drier, more brittle, honeycomb-like.
Extraction Method: Solvent-based using techniques that determine texture.
The flavor and potency display a high potency of 60%-90% THC, and also has a better retention value for the terpenes as compared to shatter.
Ideal Use: For users looking for a strong effect and flavor, versatile for dabbing, vaping, or mixing with flowers.
Pros & Cons.
Easier to use, tasty, adaptable, etc.
It can degrade if poorly handled, but it’s still very strong.
Here’s what you need to look for: Even texture, good packaging, and lab-tested for THC/terpenes.
Shop Wax & Budder Products →.
- Live Resin.
With a wax-like, sauce, or sugar texture. The key is fresh/frozen extraction.
To preserve terpenes, fresh cannabis [often called live cannabis] is instantly frozen post-harvest. Then, using solvents, the extraction is performed at low temperatures.
This marijuana strain has an intense flavor and a very potent THC level.
It’s suitable for scent lovers who want to try blends.
Pros & Cons.
It is known for its robust flavor, rich aroma, and high strength.
Downsides: Additional expense, sensitive to storage, and must be handled carefully.
An ideal label to watch out for would be “live resin,” a source of fresh harvest and a lab-tested terpene profile.
External Resource: Cannabis Concentrate Types.
- Distillate.
The refined, clear, or golden liquid is dedicated to a single cannabinoid.
Distillation removes the majority of the plant compounds present in the flower. Some distillers re-add the terpenes.
This strain is strong but lacks flavor, unless terpenes are added back to it.
Most users use this for the potency and convenience of usage.
Pros & Cons.
Pros: Easy to dose, flexible, and very powerful.
It has lesser taste, a ‘less natural’ feel, and an overconsumption risk.
Transparent composition, lab-tested cannabinoid content, and added terpenes if flavor matters are what to look for.
- Solventless Concentrates (Rosin, Bubble Hash, Kief).
Texture and shape are different depending on the technique used.
- Rosin: Sticky/sap-like.
- Bubble hash: Soft, crumbly.
- Kief: Fine powder of trichomes.
Types of Extraction:
- No Chemical Sovents
- Heat and Pressure
- Agitation with Ice and Water
- Dry Sift.
Our cannabis products are packed with terpenes and strong cannabis flavor boasting slightly lower THC levels than extreme solvent extracts.
Best Used: This is for those who want clean, natural concentrates or a medical-grade product.
Pros & Cons.
Pros: Clean, flavorful, solvent-free.
Disadvantages include: Costly, inconsistent texture, limited yield.
What to Look For: Label “solventless,” documentation of extraction process, consistent texture, proper storage.
Safety & Best Practices
- Always verify the COA/lab tests for potency and impurity.
- Start low and go slow; concentrates are potent.
- Use proper equipment for dabbing or vaping.
- Store in a cool, dark place to retain terpenes and keep texture intact.
- Ensure legal compliance in your area.
Conclusion.
The right cannabis concentrate is all about the balance of texture, extraction method, flavour, potency, and use.
Understanding the differences between shatter, wax, live resin, distillate, and solventless options can help you decide which is both satisfying and safer, whether you are chasing maximum potency, rich flavor, or clean extraction.
For more information on the types, visit our MIDSFACTORY Product Page.