Vapes have taken over the country and cannabis industry in recent years. Turn a corner, and you’ll likely run into somebody smoking a vape or bumming a few puffs from a friend. Every smoke shop and gas station carries non-medicated disposable vape pens to puff on, and dispensaries across the nation carry cannabis vapes ranging in flavors from sweet candy and flower-focused to fruity with botanical undertones. But what are the best weed cartridges in California?
The answer to that question is, of course, subjective. However, we’ve put together a list of our favorite weed cartridges in California based on customer feedback, online reviews, and our own personal experience. But before we get to the list, let’s first answer a few frequently asked questions about cannabis cartridges.
What are Vapes?
Vapes, also called e-cigarettes, are battery-operated devices that heat a liquid to create a vapor. They work in conjunction with a weed cartridge, a small, refillable tank that attaches to a battery-operated vaporizer. The tank holds liquid cannabis concentrate, also known as “oil.” The THC oil is heated by the battery-operated vaporizer, turning the oil into an inhalable vapor. Vapes come in all shapes and sizes, from sleek and compact pens to larger, box-mod styles.
For example, here are a few Hyperwolf vapes:
3. Apple Ringz (1g): Hyperwolf 
Mood: Indica
Vibes: Chill, Sleepy, Hungry
Terpenes: Caryophyllene, Limonene, Myrcene
Description: If your taste buds crave all things apple, this one’s for you. Prepare to be tantalized by the sweet, tangy, and refreshingly crisp apple flavor that will transport you to an orchard with every puff. Devoted enthusiasts of Apple Ringz rave about its relaxing and sedating effects, ideal for those seeking respite from the stresses of the day and finding solace in a peaceful nap amidst fields of apples. But beware, this strain may awaken your appetite with a serious case of the munchies, so stock up on your favorite snacks in advance.
3. Limoncello (1g): Hyperwolf
Mood: Sativa
Vibes: Energetic, Elevated, Creative
Terpenes: Limonene, Caryophyllene, Myrcene
Description: Limoncello offers a taste of Italy at your fingertips. This sativa vape pod may just be your new go-to thanks to a delicious flavor profile featuring bright and smooth lemon notes to keep you uplifted and elevated throughout the day. But let’s get to why you’re really here: the high. Limoncello is said to offer a burst of energy and creativity to keep you tackling your to-do list with ease. It’s the perfect pick-me-up whether you’re kickstarting your morning or hitting an afternoon slump. So, if you can’t book a trip to the Amalfi Coast, try the next best thing: our Limoncello vape pod. Just be sure to pair it with some pizza and gelato — because why not?
3. Mochi Gelato (1g): Hyperwolf
Mood: Indica
Vibes: Relaxed, Sleepy, Hungry
Terpenes: Caryophyllene, Limonene, Myrcene
Description: Immerse yourself in the delightful world of Mochi Gelato, where indulgence meets tranquility. This strain is a tempting blend of sweet and creamy flavors meant tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. As you inhale, you may find that a wave of relaxation sweeps over you, melting away stress and tension with every puff. Mochi Gelato is the ultimate sensory treat, offering a creative escape from the chaos of everyday life.
What is a THC Vape Cartridge?
Vaping cartridges are the portion of the vape that holds the THC oil. The cartridge screws onto the vaporizer battery and can be detached for refillings. Most vape cartridges are made of plastic or glass and metal, and some are even disposable.
What’s in a Weed Cartridge?
The oil inside of a cannabis cartridge is typically comprised of three main ingredients: THC distillate, terpenes, and flavoring.
Weed Distillate
Cannabis distillate is a highly refined oil containing high THC or CBD levels. Distillates are made by extracting cannabinoids and other compounds from the cannabis plant using processes like CO2 or butane extraction. The final product is a golden oil with almost 100% pure CBD or THC concentration.
Terpenes
Terpenes are aromatic oils that give cannabis its distinctive smell and flavor. There are hundreds of different terpenes, and each one has its own unique aroma and flavor profile. Some common cannabis terpenes include myrcene (mango), limonene ( citrus), and pinene (pine).
Flavorings
Flavorings are added to cannabis oil to give it a specific taste or smell. There are various flavors, including fruit, candy, and botanicals. Some of our favorite THC vape pen cartridges are flavored with natural terpenes to give them a truly unique taste.
What Are the Different Types of THC Cartridges?
When it comes to THC cartridges, there are three main types: distillate, CO2 oil, and live resin.
- Distillate is the most common type of THC oil, and it is made by refining cannabis down to its purest form.
- CO2 oil is made using a supercritical CO2 extraction process and typically contains a higher concentration of terpenes than distillate.
- Live resin is made with fresh, frozen cannabis flowers and contains more cannabinoids and terpenes than other types of THC oil.
Depending on your preference, you can choose from various THC cartridge types. If you want a pure THC experience, go for a distillate cartridge. If you’re looking for a more flavorful vapor, try a live resin or CO2 oil cartridge.
Vape Pens vs. Vape Cartridges
A vape pen is a battery-operated handheld device that vaporizes cannabis oil. A vape cartridge is a detachable tank that attaches to the vape pen and holds the cannabis oil. Vape cartridges are also known as “carts.”
THC carts are small glass cartridges that usually contain between 0.5 and 1.0 mL of THC oil. The oil is thick and slightly sticky. Most carts have a metal mouthpiece that screws on and off and a small hole in the side of the cartridge that allows air to flow through.
Carts are prefilled with THC oil and are ready to use right out of the box. There is no need to refill or recharge them; they can be disposed of when they are empty.
Disposable Vape Pens
Disposable vape pens are prefilled with THC oil and intended for one-time use. They do not have vape carts that can be detached and replaced. Once the oil is used up, the pen must be thrown away. Disposable vape pens are ideal for people who want to try cannabis oil without committing to a refillable pen.
Nondisposable Vape Pens
Nondisposable vape pens have a cartridge that can be detached and replaced. The battery is usually rechargeable, and the pen can be used multiple times. These types of pens are more expensive than disposable pens, but they allow you to use your own cannabis oil or buy prefilled cartridges from a dispensary.
What are mods?
Mods are devices that allow you to customize your vape’s look, feel, and performance. Mods can include variable wattage, temperature control, and replaceable batteries. Some mods are simple devices that just allow you to use a different tank or cartridge, while others are complex devices with multiple buttons and settings.
The Best Vapes in California
There are dozens of vapes and cartridges on the market and operating in California — the number of THC products is overwhelming. To help you narrow down your choices, here’s our list of the best vapes in California.
Alpine
Alpine is changing the vaping game. By challenging you to reach new heights with their expertly crafted THC oil cartridges (that we always keep in our weed stash) Alpine has rightfully earned our black and yellow seal of approval and a spot on our vapes menu. Their premium cannabis oil is expertly distilled to maintain the integrity and flavors of the strain with botanical terpenes that exclude any added flavors.
Any THC oil cartridge from Alpine is high quality and an instant favorite. Still, a few must-haves include the True OG indica cartridge, Jet Fuel limited edition live resin cartridge, and our very own collab with Alpine — the Chuck Norris live resin cartridge. Each of these hits different, but all are amazing examples of what Alpine offers.
1. King Louis (1g): Alpine
Mood: Indica
Vibes: Happy, Relaxed, Calm
Terpenes: Myrcene, Limonene, Caryophyllene
Description: Commanding over the realm of cannabis, King Louis reigns supreme, offering a majestic experience with its potent OG effects fit for royalty. Born from the noble union of OG Kush and LA Confidential, Alpine Vapor’s King Louis is a regal strain boasting a distinctively pungent kush aroma and a robust, gassy flavor. Prepare to embrace the essence of true monarchy as this exquisite blend washes over you, leaving a state of blissful relaxation.
Friendly Farms
Having previously collaborated with the team over at Friendly Farms, we know first-hand the time, attention, and effort that goes into their creative process to ensure the highest quality THC product every single time.
By working with some of the West Coast’s most renowned cultivators, Friendly Farms produces a variety of the best cannabis vapes in California to offer farm-to-friend products, including potent cartridges.
Whether you’re in the market for cured resin or live resin cartridges, friendly farms has you covered with their premium Tru Spectrum™ Extracts. These THC oil carts preserve the natural terpenes and cannabinoids at sub-zero temperatures to maintain the natural flavors, aromas, and effects of the strain.
1. Forbidden Cream Live Resin (0.5g): Friendly Farms
Mood: Indica
Vibes: Relaxed, Sleepy, Calm
Terpenes: Myrcene, Caryophyllene, Limonene
Description: Friendly California live resin cartridges are crafted from cured cannabis flower grown by industry-leading cultivators from California. Friendly Farms NEVER filters or uses additives in its oil because they believe in the most natural representation of each strain’s unique flavors and effects. That’s the Tru Spectrum difference.
Hyperwolf
After years in the making, we’re overjoyed to bring our customers the long-awaited HyperWolf vapes. Whether you prefer pods or THC cartridges, we have you covered with carefully crafted melted diamond varieties that ditch the low quality, questionable ingredients and unnecessary fillers in favor of the purest, most intentional ingredients.
Our diamonds are crafted with whole-plant cannabis, immediately frozen after harvest, to retain freshness. Instead of a distillate base, we use only melted live diamonds as a starting point for our THC oil, then add in terpenes for effect, flavor, and your pleasure. Waffles, Peach Ringz, Forbidden Slushee pods, Deathstar OG, and Tangieland cartridges are some of the best THC cartridges we carry. But don’t worry, we’ve got more in store. Stay tuned for future drops!
Mood: Sativa
Vibes: Euphoric, Energetic, Creative
Terpenes: Limonene, Caryophyllene, Myrcene
Description: Our latest Gushers vape cart is bound to take you on a trip down memory lane. If you’re a fan of the classic candy-inspired strains, then Gushers may be an excellent choice to deliver your daily dose of sweet sativa goodness. Many stoners who’ve smoked Gushers report strong euphoric effects that are said to offer a boost of energy and creativity when needed most. So, whether you’re tackling your to-do list or just lounging around, Gushers could be your new go-to vape to keep you flying high throughout the day.
Rove
Rove is a California-based brand that has quickly expanded into dispensaries across the country — and for a good reason! Rove exclusively focuses on weed vapes, so you can rest easy knowing the level of expertise and experience that goes into your Rove cartridge.
Their marijuana vapes are among the best in California thanks to their core values of honesty, simplicity, and transparency. Crafted with 100% organically grown cannabis, Rove has perfected each stage of their cultivation and product creation process to offer customers great-tasting vapes. We’re proud to carry these products on our menu!
Mood: Hybrid
Vibes: Elevated, Relieved, Relaxed
Terpenes: Myrcene, Pinene, Caryophyllene
Description: Born from a cross between two powerhouses, Blue Dream and Strawberry Cough, Rove’s Dream cannabis cartridge is—you guessed it—a dream. Its flavor profile is sweet with notes of strawberries, and the high is just as pleasant. Stoner’s who’ve smoked dream report full-body relaxation combined with cerebral invigoration to keep your mind stimulated and body at ease.
PLUGplay
As one of the go-to vape brands in the industry, PLUGplay has made major waves in a relatively short period. So much so that they’ve positioned themselves as a key player in the game. So, what sets PLUGplay apart from the competition?
Premium THC solventless oil with added terpenes coupled with the latest battery and pod advancements, such as ceramic heating, has allowed PLUGplay to set the new industry standard for vaping technology.
Beware, PLUGplay vapes are strong, so consume with caution because just one puff and users report feeling an instant rush of THC. With such potent cartridges, it’s no wonder they’re some of the best THC oil cartridges in California!
Mood: Indica
Vibes: Hungry, Sleepy, Euphoric
Terpenes: Myrcene, Limonene, Caryophyllene
Description: PlugPlay never fails to release some of the best vape pods and batteries in the industry, and Fire OG is the perfect representation of that reputation. A few puffs and you’ll almost immediately feel the calming indica effects, which offer soothing relief with every hit. As for the flavor, Fire OG delivers pine and citrus notes for a refreshing experience each and every drag.
STIIIZY
And finally… STIIIZY. Did you really think that we would create a list of the best cannabis vapes in California without including STIIIZY? Not a chance. So, what makes STIIIZY so special? And why do they have such a cult following? Let’s discuss.
Like all weed vapes, STIIIZY offers convenience, discretion, and the latest battery technology that houses magnetically-attached pods filled with indoor-grown, strain-specific cannabis flower extract. Almost everybody has tried a STIIIZY product at some point in their smoking careers… have you?
There you have it! Our list of the best THC vape cartridges and brands in California. Be sure to check out our menu for all of the latest and greatest THC products! And don’t forget that we’re constantly updating our inventory, so check back often.
Mood: Indica
Vibes: Happy, Relaxed, Uplifted
Terpenes: Caryophyllene, Limonene, Myrcene
Description: You simply can’t go wrong with STIIIZY pods. Similarly, you simply can’t go wrong with OG Kush. So, what happens when you combine one of the industry’s most classic strains with the STIIIZY vape pod system? You get a cannabis product that has rightfully earned its place on our list of this week’s top strains. STIIIZY pods are some of the most popular in the industry because their botanically-derived terpenes deliver a consistently potent experience that stays true to the strain. With OG Kush, you can expect an herbal, citrusy, peppery taste along with powerful effects that leave you absolutely stoned as if you’re in a trance.
What Are the Benefits of Vaping THC?
Cannabis vaping has become one of the most popular methods of consuming THC, especially as more and more states legalize marijuana. But what are the benefits of vaping THC? Let’s take a look.
Vaping THC offers several potential benefits over other methods of consuming cannabis, such as smoking or edibles. First and foremost, vaping provides a much cleaner and healthier way to consume cannabis. When you vape, the cannabis is heated to a temperature that turns the active ingredients into vapor, then inhaled. This process doesn’t produce any carcinogens or other harmful additives, making it a much safer option than smoking.
In addition, vaping THC is a more efficient way to consume cannabis. When you smoke, many active ingredients are lost in the process and never make it into your system. But with vaping, almost all THC is absorbed into your body, meaning you get more bang for your buck.
Finally, vaping THC is a much more discreet cannabis consumption method. Unlike smoking, which produces telltale smells and can be difficult to hide, vaping produces very little odor and can be done almost anywhere. So, vaping is the way to go if you’re looking for a discreet way to consume cannabis.
How to Choose a Vape Cartridge
With so many different types of THC vape cartridges on the market, it can be tricky to know which one is right for you.
Here are a few things to consider when choosing a vape cartridge:
- The type of cannabis oil you want to use: If you want to use a prefilled THC cartridge from a dispensary, make sure to check that it’s compatible with your vape battery. Some brands use proprietary cartridges that can only be used with their own batteries.
- The type of vaporizer you want to use: If you want to use a disposable vape pen, ensure that the pen is compatible with the type of cartridge you want to use. For example, some pens use 510-threaded cartridges while others use 900-threaded cartridges.
- The amount of THC you want to consume: If you’re new to vaping THC, start with a lower concentration and work your way up. You can always take more puffs if you want, but you can’t take less. A potent blend is not always the best THC oil cartridge.
- The type of effect you want to achieve: Different strains of cannabis produce different effects. For example, some strains are more energizing while others are more relaxing. Be sure to choose a strain that produces the type of effect you’re looking for.
So now that you know what to look for, head to our menu and start browsing our selection of THC vape cartridges!
FAQ
How Long Does a THC Cartridge Last?
The lifespan of a THC cartridge depends on several factors, such as the amount of THC in the cartridge, the size of the cartridge, and how often you use it. In general, a THC cartridge will last for about 500 puffs before it needs to be replaced.
Do Carts Expire?
Yes, THC cartridges can expire. The expiration date is typically printed on the cartridge, and you should avoid using it after this date. Once a cartridge expires, the THC inside degrades, making it less potent and effective.
How Do I Know If My THC Cartridge Is Empty?
When your THC cartridge is running low, you’ll notice that vapor production starts to decrease. Once the vapor production is noticeably lower, the cartridge is considered empty.
Can I Refill My Own THC Cartridge?
You can refill your THC cartridge using a cannabis oil syringe. However, we recommend taking your empty cartridge to a dispensary so that they can properly dispose of it and recycle the materials.
What’s the Difference Between a THC Cartridge and a CBD Cartridge?
THC cartridges are filled with cannabis oil that contains THC, while CBD cartridges are filled with cannabis oil that contains CBD. Both THC and CBD are cannabinoids, but they have different effects on the body. THC is the cannabinoid that gets you high, while CBD is the cannabinoid that offers medicinal benefits without the psychoactive effects.
Does vaping help with chronic pain?
Vaping THC can help with chronic pain by providing relief from the symptoms. When you vape THC, the active ingredients are absorbed into your body, which can help to alleviate pain.
The Best THC Cartridges California Has to Offer
If you’re looking for the best weed cartridges in California, look no further than our selection at HyperWolf. We have something for everyone, from our very own brand to other top brands on the market.
Our cartridges are filled with high-quality cannabis oil free of harmful chemicals and residual solvents. We also offer a variety of different strains to suit your needs, whether you’re looking for an energizing Sativa or a relaxing Indica. If you haven’t already, check out our Guide to Vapes and place a weed delivery order for your favorite craft cannabis vapes here.
