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Edibles vs. Smoking: What's the Best Way to Elevate Your High?

Written by: Nice Leaf

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Published on

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Time to read 3 min

Cannabis is all about choices. Do you take a slow, steady ride with edibles, or do you go straight for the express lane with inhalables? Each method has its own unique effects, onset time, and duration - so choosing between edibles vs. smoking comes down to what kind of experience you're looking for.


Whether you're a seasoned cannabis enthusiast or a total newbie, understanding edibles vs. smoking pros and cons will help you make the best decision for your vibe. Let's break it all down and help you find the right experience for your lifestyle.

The Basics: What's the Difference Between Edibles & Inhalables

Smoking: The Fast-Acting Classic

Inhalables include vapes, pre-rolls, and flower - anything that gets your favorite hemp-derived THC and other cannabinoids into your system via your lungs. When you smoke or vape, cannabinoids enter your bloodstream almost instantly, delivering effects in just 1-5 minutes.

  • Pros: Quick onset, easy to control dose, short-lived effects.
  • Cons: May irritate the lungs, effects fade faster than edibles.

Edibles: The Long-Lasting Ride

Edibles are cannabinoid-infused foods and drinks, including gummies, chocolates, and other baked goods. Instead of absorbing through your lungs, THC in edibles is processed through your digestive system and metabolized in your liver, producing a longer-lasting, more intense effect.

  • Pros: Stronger, longer-lasting high, no lung irritation.
  • Cons: Delayed onset, harder to control dose, effects can last 6+ hours.

Edibles vs. Smoking: How Quickly Do They Work?

Inhalables: Instant Gratification

With vapes or pre-rolls, THC kicks in almost immediately. You’ll feel effects within minutes, making it easy to adjust your dose in real time.


If you’re looking for instant relief from stress, anxiety, or pain, inhalables like the Blue Nana 'Blackout' Blend 3G Vape Pen deliver an almost-instant euphoric high that lets you go from tense to chill in no time.

Edibles: The Slow Build-Up

Edibles on the other hand, require patience. Since THC is absorbed through your stomach and processed by your liver, it can take 30 minutes to 2 hours to feel the effects. Once it hits, however, the high lasts much longer than smoking - up to 8 hours for some users!


If you're planning a movie night or a long, chill evening, something like the Rocket Pop Blackout Blend Gummies is the move. These heavy hitters pack a punch and keep you lifted for hours.

assortment of vape pens and gummies on a yellow table.
assortment of vape pens on a magazine

Edibles vs. Smoking Pros and Cons

edibles vs. inhalables side by side comparison

Edible Tolerance vs. Smoking: How Your Body Adapts

Building a Tolerance to Smoking

Smoking or vaping THC builds tolerance faster than edibles. Since inhalables interact with your CB1 receptors more frequently, they quickly desensitize, meaning you'll need more over time to feel the same effects.

Building a Tolerance to Edibles

Edibles take longer to build tolerance because they're processed differently. However, regular use still increases tolerance. This means you might need higher doses over time. If you find yourself needing way more of your Nice Leaf edibles to feel something, it might be time for a tolerance break!


Pro Tip: If you've built a high tolerance to smoking, edibles might still hit hard because they're metabolized differently. If you're used to puffing on the Loopy THCa 3G Vape Pen but want a change, try switching to our gummies like the Honey Deez 3500MG THCa Gummies for a fresh high.

Choosing the Right Method: When to Pick Edibles or Inhalables

When to Choose Edibles

  • You don't want to smoke or vape.
  • You're looking for long-lasting effects (6+ hours).
  • You need stronger relief from body or mental discomforts.
  • You are in a situation where smoking isn't practical.

When to Choose Inhalables

  • You want fast effects (within minutes).
  • You prefer a high that's easier to control.
  • You're using cannabis in a social setting.
  • You like the ritual or smoking or vaping.

Finding the Best Delta-9 THC Edibles and Vapes

Best THC Edibles

If you're looking for the best cannabinoid-infused THC edibles, you want something lab-tested, and packed with flavor. Here are some top picks:

Best THC Vape Pens

For quick, smooth hits, these premium vape pens bring the heat:

Final Thoughts: Which One is Right for You?

At the end of the day, edibles vs. smoking isn't about which one is "better" - it's about what fits your vibe. If you need quick effects and easy dosing, go with a vape, like the Georgia's Nana THCa 3G Vape Pen. If you want a slow, deep high that lasts all night, reach for the Psynapple 3500MG Delta-8 THC Gummies.


Whatever you choose, always start low and go slow - especially with edibles. And most importantly, enjoy the ride! 🚀

Ready to Find Your Perfect High?

Explore our full selection of premium vapes, edibles, and more at Nice Leaf. Shop now and elevate your experience!