It seems like every time you turn around, there are new cannabis products on the market. Two cannabis concentrates to explore are Distillate and Live Resin. Although they are both potent cannabis concentrates, they differ in their extraction method and effects. You can enjoy them as pure concentrates or through other products like vapes. So, what are the differences? Come with us as we contrast the two concentrates and compare their respective top form factors — Distillate vs Live Resin Cart — so you can determine which is right for you.
Distillate and Live Resin differ in their origins. Producers source Live Resin from fresh frozen cannabis plants. It is a full-spectrum concentrate that preserves maximum terpenes, which are the aromatic compounds found in cannabis plants responsible for each strain’s unique smells and distinct characteristics. Unlike Live Resin, producers source Distillate from dried and cured plants. It also features one potent cannabinoid rather than a blend of cannabinoids and natural terpenes, so preserving the terpene profile is not as important. But that only scratches the surface. Read on to discover the similarities and differences between Live Resin and Distillate and why vape carts are the most convenient way to enjoy these concentrates.
What Is Live Resin?
Live Resin is a cannabis concentrate made from cannabis plants that are flash-frozen immediately after harvest. Freezing the plants this way preserves peak levels of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other plant compounds. Live Resin is a full-spectrum extract that delivers the entire range of compounds found in cannabis plants.
The terpene profile of the cannabis plant is well preserved to provide a potent, flavorful, and aromatic experience. This makes Live Resin one of the most potent and flavorful cannabis concentrates available.
The color of Live Resin ranges from dark amber to light yellow to white. However, it’s mostly available in a rich, golden honey color. The consistency of Live Resin is generally wet, soft, and grainy.
Live Resin can be made from both hemp and marijuana plants. Most Live Resin products you see on the market today are hemp-derived and contain 0.3% THC content or less, making them federally legal. We’ll talk more about the nuances surrounding legality later on.
How is Live Resin Made?
The Live Resin production process starts right after the cannabis plant, in this case hemp, is harvested. It is immediately flash-frozen to preserve its freshness and maximum cannabinoid and terpene content. These hemp plants are frozen at -10°F to preserve their cannabinoid and terpene profile.
After 24-48 hours, the cannabis extract is drawn out from the plant material through a hydrocarbon extraction method, which helps keep the cannabinoid and terpene content intact. Residual levels are removed, and heat is added to the tank to produce the oily solution. After Live Resin extraction, the product is moved to a separate tank.
Once the cannabis extract is purified, it is poured into a processor to produce the final Live Resin product. Some producers whip the Resin into a smooth product known as budder or batter. Others leave the Live Resin in its original concentrated form, which is typically wet and grainy.
How To Use Live Resin
There are several ways to enjoy Live Resin. Here are the most common ways to receive the benefits of this powerful cannabis concentrate.
- Dab Rigs. These smoking devices are similar to bongs and the most popular way to enjoy cannabis concentrates, such as Live Resin. To use a dab rig, heat the nail, which is the compartment that holds the concentrate. Let it cool slightly, and using a dab tool, place a small amount of Live Resin into the nail while inhaling it through the mouthpiece.
- Vape Pens. Vaporizers are ideal because they are portable, discreet, and do not produce smoke. Instead, you’ll enjoy rich vapor for a more palatable experience. You’ll need a wax vape, which is a special vape pen meant for vaporizing concentrates like Live Resin. Place the Live Resin in the chamber, activate the heating element, and inhale through the mouthpiece.
- Joints or Bowls. If you enjoy smoking flower, you can add Live Resin to your joints or bowls. However, the cannabis concentrate can get sticky and messy, making vaping and dabbing preferable options.
Use a dab rig for maximum potency. But if you value convenience and ease of use, try Live Resin vapes for an on-the-go experience.
What is Distillate?
Distillates are cannabis concentrates that feature a specific cannabinoid like THC (Delta 9 Tetrahydrocannabinol, Delta 9 THC, Delta 9, D9 THC, or D9), CBD (Cannabidiol), CBN (Cannabinol), or CBG (Cannabigerol). They typically feature a potency of 90% or higher.
Manufacturers make Distillate from dried and cured cannabis flower. The flower undergoes high heat levels for drying and curing since preserving the terpene content is not a priority. Cannabis distillates have a thick, gooey consistency and are dark in color.
How is Distillate Made?
Creating Distillates requires a complex, multi-step process. Here’s a rundown of the basic steps to make this potent concentrate.
- Drying and Curing. Growers hang cannabis flower upside down or lay it on large racks to dry and cure it. They then place the buds in airtight containers to purge bacteria and promote aging and stabilization.
- Extraction Process. Extractors use propane, butane, or ethanol to extract cannabinoids from the plant material. The extraction process draws the chemical compounds out of the plant’s trichomes, which are the Resin-producing glands of cannabis plants.
- Winterization. Processors expose the cannabis plant to extremely cold temperatures to separate residual solvents and unwanted components that reduce the plant’s potency and cause discoloration.
- Filtration. The mixture undergoes filtration to remove solidified fats, waxes, and other compounds.
- Decarboxylation. During this phase, heat is applied to the cannabis plant to convert cannabinoid precursors into their final form. A great example is THCA (Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid), which converts into THC to make the extract more potent. Or, in the case of hemp, CBDA (Cannabidiolic Acid) into CBD.
- Distillation. The plant material is converted into its purest form during this final stage. Heating and cooling remove residual solvents and separate the desired cannabinoid from the solution. The step is repeated several times until processors derive Distillate, an extract free of remaining solvents, terpenes, and other impurities.
How To Use Distillate
Like Live Resin, Distillate is ideally enjoyed with a dab rig. For additional versatility, you can also enjoy it by smoking or using wax vapes and pre-filled vape carts. Edibles and oils are other ways to consume it.
For peak potency and benefits, we recommend using a dab rig. However, for maximum convenience, Live Resin vapes are the best option.
Live Resin vs Distillate Cart: When to Use
Live Resin extracts are ideal for cannabis consumers seeking a full spectrum effect. In full spectrum extracts, the terpenes and compounds work together to enhance each component of the product. Although Live Resin is less concentrated than Distillate, it provides a powerful experience.
Distillate is the perfect choice for cannabis connoisseurs who prioritize purity. You will taste the product’s earthy flavor and experience its purest form. Distillates are less expensive than Live Resin, making them a good choice for those on a budget.
Your experience level comes into play when it comes down to choosing between a Distillate vs Live Resin cart.
- Beginner. A Distillate cart is ideal for beginners due to its high potency, easy dosing, and lack of strong flavor, which makes it suitable for discreet vaping.
- Intermediate. Live Resin carts offer more nuanced flavors and effects. This is because Live Resin retains most of the terpenes and cannabinoid content for a fuller sensory experience that reflects a strain’s profile.
- Advanced. Live Resin carts are ideal for those seeking higher potency and a richer flavor profile. However, when it comes to the concentrated effects of a particular cannabinoid, Distillates are the way to go. It’s a win-win situation for fans of either concentrate.
Distillate vs Live Resin: Potential Benefits
In the debate between Distillate vs Live Resin cart, which is better? Let’s compare Distillate cart vs Live Resin cart benefits so you can decide which one is right for you and your needs.
Live Resin Benefits
The biggest benefit of Live Resin is its full spectrum effects. Its terpenes and compounds combine to enhance the properties of each component.
For example, a relaxing terpene like linalool may combine with CBN to increase the product’s potential to reduce stress and anxiousness. On the other end of the spectrum, CBD can combine with THC to help lessen euphoria for a more balanced experience.
Distillate Benefits
Distillate’s biggest benefits are its purity and its versatility. Its purity means you can feel confident it is free of unwanted compounds. It also ensures an optimal experience in enjoying the benefits of your favorite cannabinoid.
Although Distillate itself contains a very low terpene profile, Distillate carts may be enhanced with terpenes for flavor. Distillates are also more potent and less expensive than Live Resin.
Legal Status: Live Resin vs Distillates
According to the Farm Bill of 2018, hemp-derived Distillate and Live Resin are legal as long as they contain a THC content of 0.3% or less. However, state laws vary. Some align with the Farm Bill. Others allow cannabis products with THC levels higher than 0.3%. Still, others don’t allow cannabis products at all. Always check the hemp and cannabis laws of your state or locality to ensure you’re on the right side of the law before purchasing Distillate carts or Live Resin carts.
Why Choose BudPop for High-Quality Resin Carts and Other Cannabis Products
Regardless of where you stand on the Live Resin cart vs Distillate debate, BudPop is your best choice for your hemp needs. We offer:
- Quality Products. We use high-quality, American-grown hemp and top-notch ingredients in all our cannabis products. Our lab testing ensures optimal potency and purity.
- Packaging. We use tamper-proof packaging and list our ingredients for optimal transparency.
- Customer Support. We understand you may have questions when purchasing cannabis products, so we’re available by phone and email to address your needs.
- Taste. Our combination of high-quality hemp and all-natural ingredients ensures your products taste great.
BudPop Live Resin Disposable Vape Pens and Vape Carts
If you’re looking for Live Resin carts worth your money, you’ve found them. At Budpop, our hemp-derived Live Resin Vape Carts and Disposable Vape Pens offer the best flavor profile and potency.
Choose from single cannabinoid CBD or Delta 8 THC Vape Carts and Disposables that contain pure, hemp-derived Live Resin for added thrust. What’s the main difference?
- CBD + Live Resin Carts & Disposables. Help combat stress and anxiousness by staying calm, cool, and collected at all times. Take a hit for optimum wellness, as CBD works with your ECS to help you achieve perfect mind-body balance.
- Delta 8 THC + Live Resin Carts & Disposables. Perfect for evenings and nights when all you want to do is unwind and sink into relaxation. One hit from a D8 + Live Resin Vape, and you’ll feel like you’re floating on a tranquil cloud of mild, calming euphoria.
FAQs Live Resin vs Distillate
What Gives a Better High, Live Resin or Distillate?
Due to its complex cannabinoid and terpene profile, Live Resin may potentially offer a more complex and full-bodied euphoric experience. However, Distillate may do the same, but it delivers a more potent, straightforward, and intense high primarily focused on a single cannabinoid such as THC. Some may prefer a full spectrum effect of Live Resin. Others may opt for the pure effects of Distillate. Experiment with both products to determine which is best suited to your needs and if the euphoria is to your liking.
Does Live Resin Move Faster Than Distillate?
Yes, Live Resin moves faster than Distillate. Both Live Resin and Distillate move relatively slowly. However, Live Resin is generally less viscous than Distillate due to higher terpene content and minimal processing. Distillate is usually thicker and more dense, which makes it move slower.
What Voltage for Live Resin Carts Is Ideal?
Most enthusiasts agree that the ideal voltage for Live Resin carts is 2.5V to 3.3V. Standard vape pens have automatic voltage controls for ideal vaporizing efficiency and heat levels. These controls help to prevent overheating, which could destroy compound and terpene profiles.
Do Live Resin and Distillate Carts Require Different Vaping Temperatures?
Yes, a Live Resin vape cart requires a different vaping temperature than a Distillate cartridge. Live Resin is less viscous than Distillate, requiring a lower vaping temperature and voltage. The ideal temperatures for a Live Resin vape cart are 315- 400 °F and 100-150 °F for a Distillate cartridge.
Do Live Resin Carts Get You Higher Than Distillate Carts?
In terms of single cannabinoid effects, Distillate carts tend to be more potent than Live Resin carts because they provide a pure cannabis experience. However, Live Resin’s combined terpenes and compounds may make your euphoria more enjoyable. It’s a personal preference.
Final Thoughts – Distillate vs Live Resin Cart [The Ultimate Showdown of Purity & Potency]
The Live Resin vs Distillate debate rages on. Some prefer the purity of Distillate, while others enjoy the full spectrum effect of Live Resin. Enjoying these concentrates with a dab rig is the ideal way to go. But for ultimate convenience, choose from Live Resin or Distillate carts. You can enjoy them by attaching them to your favorite vape pen for an easy, discreet, and portable experience.
Which will you add to your wellness routine? Regardless of your choice, you will enjoy a potent and pure experience that will send your senses soaring! Try Budpop’s hemp-derived CBD and Delta 8 THC Live Resin Vape Carts and Disposables and feel the potency for yourself!