Dab Rigs: Finding the Perfect Fit for You
Choosing the best dab rigs for your needs can feel overwhelming. With so many options on the market, assessing which one suits your personal preferences can be daunting. Dab rig prices vary widely, with entry-level cheap dab rigs ranging from $40 to $100. Midrange options typically cost between $100 and $300, while high-end or heady dab rigs can reach thousands of dollars.
Start by setting a budget. There are plenty of functional cheap dab rigs available, making them an excellent choice for beginners or those buying their first rig. Cheap dab rigs are often smaller, as they’re less costly and quicker to produce. The saying “less is more” applies here—you don’t need to filter plant material from smoke, just cool the dab vapor for comfortable hits. Most cheap dab rigs achieve this with minimal water volume and basic percolation.
Exploring Dab Pipes and Entry-Level Options
At lower price points, you’ll also find dab pipes, like the simple glass straw (often called a nectar collector). Other dab pipes include steamroller-style designs with large internal volumes, allowing vapor to cool before inhalation. However, these may feel harsher than percolating dab rigs.
Midrange Types of Dab Rigs
Step into the midrange, and your choices expand significantly. Various types of dab rigs become available beyond basic glassware. While cheap dab rigs often feature a single, simple perc, midrange rigs showcase more intricate designs. Recycler rigs, for example, have tubes or arms that twist through the main chamber, recycling water and vapor back into the percolation chamber. This process enhances cooling and offers a visually appealing experience as water cycles through. However, recycler rigs may require more frequent cleaning due to their complex tubing.
Micro or mini dab rigs also fall in this price range. Resembling mini-bongs with fixed downstems and tiny percolation chambers, these types of dab rigs come in smaller versions of recycler designs too. Some view them as novelties, while others love their portability and convenience for solo sessions. Certain cheap dab rigs in this category even feature fixed bangers, making them travel-friendly with fewer parts to manage.
Electronic dab rigs, or E-rigs, also appear at midrange prices. Unlike E-nails (heating systems for regular glass rigs), E-rigs are wireless, powered by internal batteries and heating coils that quickly warm a quartz dish for concentrates. Popular models like the Puffco Peak and Proxy have surged in demand thanks to their ease of use and customizable glass percolation chambers and mouthpieces.
High-End Dab Rigs: Luxury and Artistry
At the high end, you’ll encounter larger rigs and heady dab rigs. While excessive percolation isn’t necessary, some multi-perc best dab rigs rival even the largest bongs. Heady rigs, however, often match the size and form of more affordable options. Their distinction lies in superior craftsmanship, artistic flair, and exotic materials. Made with advanced glassblowing techniques, heady dab rigs feature intricate color work, encased opals, or detailed millies depicting flowers, mushrooms, or portraits.
Tips for Choosing the Best Dab Rig
When shopping for a dab rig, consider your budget and specific needs. If you’re clumsy and want something affordable, stick to cheap dab rigs that get the job done. In the midrange, seek the best dab rigs offering value for money. Check the rig’s origin—imported rigs may be cheaper, but American-made options tend to be more durable and better crafted. For heady dab rigs, prices can soar, as many double as glass sculptures. If functionality matters most, stick to proven designs among the types of dab rigs.
The best dab rigs align with your lifestyle and bring you joy. Since handling every rig in person isn’t always possible, research reviews and recommendations to make an informed choice.
