If you’re new to the world of cannabis vaping or have been vaping with carts for a while now, you’ve probably encountered the term distillate cart a lot. And, you’re probably wondering what exactly it refers to and whether it’s a suitable choice for a powerful experience.
In this guide, we’re going to break down everything from how cannabis distillate is made to why this type of cannabis oil is a must-try.
What Is a Distillate Cart?
Distillate carts are carts for vaping cannabis filled with cannabis distillate. This is a very refined, concentrated type of cannabis oil. Usually, they’re attached to 510-thread vape batteries and deliver a potent, clean vapor. The flavor is minimal, almost absent, unless the terpenes have been reintroduced.
The odor-free experience is unique to distillate carts because most compounds responsible for the flavors and aromas are eliminated from the oil during the processing. The final result is a thick, golden liquid rich in CBD or THC. That said, distillate carts are the most appealing to users seeking a no-frills vaping option with powerful effects.
Related: CBD Concentrates Explained – Hash vs Wax vs Kief vs Dabs
How Is Cannabis Distillate Made?
Cannabis distillate is made via a highly technical, multi-step refinement process of isolating cannabinoids into their purest, most potent form.
Here’s the step-by-step cannabis distillate-making process:
1. Extraction
The process starts by extracting crude oil from the plant using solvents like CO2, butane, or ethanol. They dissolve and pull out terpenes, cannabinoids, and other compounds, delivering a dark and thick extract that still contains unwanted elements and plant matter such as waxes, chlorophyll, and fats.
2. Winterization
In the second phase, the oil undergoes winterization, eliminating lipids, waxes, and fats that affect the product’s purity and performance. The oil is mixed with ethanol and then chilled to below-zero temperatures for up to two days. During this period, all of the unwanted compounds solidify and are filtered out, leaving behind a clean extract.
3. Decarboxylation
Before cannabinoids become fully effective in a vaporizer, they have to be activated via decarboxylation. This requires the application of heat to transform acidic cannabinoids such as THCA and CBDA into their active forms, i.e., THC and CBD. Without this step, the extract won’t be able to deliver the psychoactive or therapeutic effects that users associate with THC and CBD, respectively.
4. Distillation
At this stage, the decarboxylated oil undergoes short-path distillation or wiped-film distillation to become a highly purified distillate with a potency of 90-99%. Both distillations use vacuum pressure and controlled heat to divide the cannabinoids from impurities and isolate single compounds based on their boiling points. The final product is a translucent, golden oil, rich in THC or CBD.
Related: Delta-8 THC vs. Delta-9 THC: What’s the Difference Between These Two Cannabinoids?
What Are the Main Characteristics of Distillate Carts?
Distillate vape carts combine potency, purity, and convenience. They’re suitable for both new and experienced users. Unlike full-spectrum or live resin carts that preserve more of the natural compounds of the plant, distillates are stripped down to the cannabinoids only, resulting in a neutral flavor and a powerful vapor.
Here are the unique properties they offer:
1. Rich in cannabinoids
Distillates undergo an intense refinement process, resulting in high THC and CBD concentration that often exceeds 90%. This is much stronger than what’s available in THCA flower or other extracts, making distillates a favorite among users who prefer strong effects and a quick onset in compact and discreet form.
2. Consistency and controlled doses
As distillate is a standardized, uniform product, every puff provides predictable strength and effects. This consistency is perfect for vapers who want to manage their consumption effectively. Whether you’re vaping recreationally or to potentially support your health and wellness goals, distillate carts make it easier to track your consumption and manage doses.
3. No-scent experience
During distillation, the natural terpenes are extracted, resulting in a scentless and odorless distillate. It’s ideal for users who don’t mind a no-scent experience and want a discreet vaping experience that doesn’t draw attention.
4. Infused with terpenes
Many distillate carts are infused with cannabis-derived or botanical terpenes after distillation, resulting in different flavor profiles and effects. Terpenes may also affect the overall effects of the vaping experience—for example, some terpenes promote relaxation, whereas others have uplifting effects.
Related: What Is Snow Caps Weed? Effects, Flavor, and Best Uses
Distillate vs. Other Types of Vape Oils
Although distillate is one of the most popular oils for vape carts, it’s not the only option. Consumers can choose from different options, each providing a unique potency, flavor, and compound retention.
By understanding the major differences between the most common options, you can choose the product that fits your needs, preferences, and budget best.
| Vape Oil Type | Potency | Flavor Profile | Processing Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Distillate | Very High (90%+) | Neutral or terpene-enhanced | Highly refined |
| Live Resin | Medium–High | Full-spectrum, flavorful | Slightly processed |
| CO₂ Oil | Medium | Mild flavor | Moderately processed |
| Full-Spectrum Oil | Medium | Natural terpene-rich | Less refined |
1. Distillate
This is the most refined, concentrated type of cannabis oil with a potency that exceeds 90% of THC or CBD. It’s suitable for users seeking quick onset and powerful effects. The high processing removes almost all compounds, including flavonoids, terpenes, and minor cannabinoids, so it’s scentless and flavorless. Some distillates have added terpenes to boost the flavor or mimic a specific strain.
2. Live resin
Live resin delivers a rich flavor and aromatic profile due to most of the original terpenes being preserved, delivering a full-spectrum experience. Though less potent than distillates, live resin delivers the entourage effect, which may contribute to a richer overall experience.
3. CO2 oil
CO2-extracted oil is the middle ground between live resin and distillate, offering moderate potency. It’s made with supercritical CO2 to extract cannabinoids and terpenes without using toxic solvents. The final result is an oil with a mild flavor and some of the natural compounds retained, although it’s less abundant in terpenes than live resin.
4. Full-spectrum
Full-spectrum oils maintain the entire chemical profile of the plant, including flavonoids, cannabinoids, terpenes, and minor compounds. It’s not nearly as refined a distillate, providing richer flavor and a more holistic, natural experience. Although less potent per milligram than distillate, consumers value it for the ability to provide the entourage effect.
Related: How Long Do Shroom Gummies Take to Kick In? What to Expect
How Are Terpenes Reintroduced?
Cannabis distillate lacks natural flavors and aroma because most of its compounds are removed during refinement. However, many manufacturers resort to adding terpenes to optimize the flavor and aroma and make the final product more enjoyable.
They don’t just influence the flavors and aroma, but the overall experience too. This is believed to be a result of the entourage effect—a theory purporting the synergistic properties of cannabis compounds. It suggests that using these compounds together may provide more significant effects.
The two types of terpenes used in distillate are:
1. Cannabis-derived
These terpenes are pulled directly from the cannabis plant to recreate the original flavor and aroma profile. However, these terpenes are usually more expensive and strain-specific.
2. Botanical-derived
Sourced from pine trees, pepper, lavender, or citrus fruits, these terpenes are chemically similar to their cannabis-derived counterparts and are more cost-effective and readily available. They’re blended to mimic the flavor of popular strains or to make new blends.
Want to learn more about terpenes? Explore our terpene directory here!
How to Use a Distillate Cart?
Using a distillate cart is simple and easy, making them suitable for both beginners and experienced users.
If it’s your first time, let’s help you get started:
1.Connect it to the vape pen
Most distillate carts have a standard 510-thread connection, so they’re compatible with most vape pen batteries on the market (unless it’s proprietary). To start using it, attach the cart to the battery. Once it’s snug, but not too tight, it’s ready to use.
2. Power the battery
Depending on the vape pen battery type, it’s either draw-activated and turns on when you inhale, or button-activated and requires pressing a button while inhaling. If there’s a button on the device, it may also feature a toggle with voltage settings to adjust flavor and vapor intensity.
3. Begin low and slow
Distillate carts are very potent with a THC or CBD of 90% or more. So, always start with a small puff and wait several minutes to see how your body reacts to it before another one.
4. Set up the voltage
If the vape pen has voltage adjustability, set it between 2.5V and 3.5V to ensure optimal performance. Lower voltages protect added terpenes, delivering more enjoyable flavor and a smoother vapor. The higher the voltage, the more vapor there will be; however, the taste will be less pleasant.
5. Store it well
Always store distillate carts upright in a cool and dark area. Keeping carts on the side may contribute to uneven heating and clogs. Leaving it near heat sources or direct sunlight can thin out the oil and increase the risk of degradation and leaks.
6.Clean it regularly
If you notice clogging or poor airflow, clean the mouthpiece gently with a cotton swab or an alcohol wipe. You can also perform a quick “preheat” cycle with the battery—this will warm up the oil and reduce the risk of blockages. Just make sure you don’t overheat the cart.
Who Are Distillate Carts Best For?
Distillate carts make a great option for:
- Experienced, high-tolerance users who appreciate high potency with minimal effort: The oil inside is thick and highly concentrated, delivering strong effects quickly.
- Users who appreciate portability, discretion, and convenience: Distillate carts are easy to carry, feature a compact design, and don’t produce odor.
- Users who want flavor-neutral vaping or those who want to explore rich terpenes: Distillate carts cater to those who don’t mind the absence of terpenes and those who enjoy customized flavors and effects.
- Consumers who prefer consistency: Distillate carts offer measured doses, resulting in consistent, almost predictable vaping sessions.
- Beginners in vaping: If beginners start slow and low, they can enjoy distillate carts too—the high cannabinoid content means that a little goes a long way.
Related: Can You Fly With Delta-9 Gummies? Everything You Need to Know
What About the Safety of Distillate Carts?
Although “safe” is often a tricky term when it comes to defining things in the cannabis world, most users and manufacturers agree that distillate carts are a clean and reliable option if sourced from trusted and reputable brands.
To get the most from distillate carts in terms of quality, always look for:
- Third-party lab tests that confirm the oil’s cannabinoid levels and absence of contaminants.
- Reputable, proven brands that use food-grade terpenes and premium materials such as glass or ceramic carts.
- Clear labeling and transparency, including everything from cannabinoid percentages and batch numbers to expiration dates.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re just discovering your appreciation for distillate carts or have been enjoying them for a while, welcome to the club!
This highly concentrated cannabis oil is all about potency, purity, and consistency, which is why the hype is real. Purchase your cart from a trusted brand and step into the vaping world confidently and in style.
FAQs
Will distillate get you high?
If the distillate is THC, it can get you high. Most THC distillates have over 90% THC and are highly concentrated, making them very potent. But, it’s crucial to know that not all distillates are psychoactive—there is CBD distillate that doesn’t provide psychoactive effects and is used mostly for its potential therapeutic effects.
Is distillate worse than resin?
Distillate isn’t necessarily better or worse than resin; it only offers a more potent and flavor-neutral, almost predictable experience, whereas live resin has more natural terpenes, delivering abundant taste and broader effects.
Is a distillate cart better?
Distillate carts may be better if you value purity and potency more than aroma and flavors. If you prefer a more sensory vaping experience, you can find many distillate options with added terpenes that mimic different strains, aromas, and flavors.