Cannabis concentrates can look a little intense at first. Between the shiny slabs, creamy scoops, and tiny jars behind the counter, it’s easy to think, “Okay… that looks advanced.” But here’s the truth: concentrates aren’t just for longtime cannabis fans. They’re simply another way to enjoy cannabis, and once you know the basics, they’re way less mysterious than they sound.

This guide breaks down cannabis concentrates, what they are, how they differ, and how to explore them confidently when shopping at your local dispensary, like Metro Cannabis Dispensary.

‍

So… What Are Cannabis Concentrates?

Cannabis concentrates are made by pulling out the parts of the plant that give cannabis its flavor, aroma, and overall vibe, and packaging them into a smaller, more powerful form. Instead of using the whole flower, concentrates focus on the “good stuff” and, well… concentrate it.

That’s why concentrates are usually more potent than flower. You’re getting more plant compounds in a much smaller amount of product. They also come in a bunch of different textures and styles, from oils to creamy waxes to glassy shatter. Different look, same idea: more concentrated cannabis in a compact form.

And yes, just like flower, concentrates absolutely come in strains. You’ll still see familiar names like Gelato, Blue Dream, Wedding Cake, and plenty more, each with its own flavor profile and personality.

‍

Why People Choose Concentrates

People are drawn to concentrates for lots of reasons, and it’s not always about strength.

Some love the big, bold flavor. Some like that you don’t need much. Some enjoy trying different textures and formats. And some just like switching things up from flower.

A few popular reasons people reach for concentrates:

• Strong, strain-forward flavor
  
• Smaller amounts needed
  
• Tons of variety in textures and formats
  
• Easy to fit into different routines and preferences

At the end of the day, it’s about finding what fits your style.

‍

Cannabis Oil: The Everyday Favorite

Cannabis oil is one of the most common types of concentrates, and you’ll usually find it in vape cartridges, disposable vapes, and sometimes infused into other products.

Why Oils Are So Popular

Oils are smooth, consistent, and super easy to use, especially in vape form. Cartridges are portable, simple, and don’t require much setup, which makes them a go-to for a lot of people.

Flavor and intensity can vary depending on how the oil is made and what parts of the plant are preserved during the process.

Best for: People who want something convenient, straightforward, and low-maintenance.

‍

Wax, Budder, and Badder: Creamy and Flavorful

Wax (also called budder or badder) has a soft, whipped, or creamy texture. The different names mostly describe how it looks and feels, not big differences in how it’s enjoyed.

Why People Like Wax

It’s easy to scoop, easy to work with, and usually packed with aroma. Because it’s not super sticky or super brittle, many people find it more forgiving than other concentrate types.

How It’s Commonly Enjoyed

Wax is most often enjoyed using devices made for concentrates, like dab rigs or electronic dab devices. Some people also add small amounts on top of flower to customize flavor and intensity. Because of its soft texture, it’s simple to portion and handle compared to firmer concentrates.

What You’ll Notice

• Soft, creamy, or slightly crumbly texture
• Big aroma when opened
• Easy handling

Best for: People who want rich flavor and a concentrate that’s simple to manage.

‍

Shatter: The Glassy Classic

Shatter is one of the most recognizable concentrates thanks to its clear, glass-like appearance. When it’s cool, it can snap into pieces, which is where the name comes from. When it’s warmer, it may soften and bend instead. Either way, it keeps that smooth, shiny look that makes it stand out in the display case.

Why People Like Shatter

Many people like shatter for its clean look and simple, straightforward texture. It’s easy to break into pieces and portion out, and it tends to hold its shape better than softer concentrates when stored properly.

How It’s Commonly Enjoyed

Shatter is often enjoyed using devices made for concentrates, such as dab rigs or electronic dab devices. Some people also place small pieces on top of flower to add extra flavor and intensity. Because it can be firm when cool, it’s usually snapped into small pieces rather than scooped.

What You’ll Notice

• Clear to amber, glassy appearance
• Firm, snappy texture when cool
• Breaks into pieces rather than smearing
  

Best for: People who prefer a more solid concentrate and like a cleaner, less sticky texture.

‍

Live Resin and Live Rosin: Big Flavor Energy

Live resin and live rosin are both made using fresh cannabis plants that are frozen shortly after harvest instead of being dried and cured first. This extra step helps preserve more of the plant’s natural aroma and flavor, which is why these concentrates are known for being especially expressive and strain-forward.

Live resin is made using solvents and is often loved for its bold flavor and saucy textures. Live rosin is made using only heat and pressure, no solvents, and is known for its rich consistency and clean, smooth profile.

Why People Love Live Concentrates

These are popular with people who really care about flavor and enjoy noticing the differences between strains. Many also like that live concentrates feel closer to the original plant in both aroma and overall character.

How They’re Commonly Enjoyed

Live resin and live rosin are most often enjoyed using devices made for concentrates, such as dab rigs or electronic dab devices. You’ll also find live versions in some vape cartridges, offering a convenient, portable option that still highlights flavor. Some people also add small amounts to flower for a more customized session.

What You’ll Notice

• Strong aroma as soon as the container is opened
• Textures ranging from saucy and sticky to smooth and buttery
• Very strain-forward flavor profiles
  

Best for: Flavor chasers and people who enjoy exploring different strains through taste and aroma.

‍

Crumble: Light, Dry, and Easy to Handle

Crumble gets its name from its dry, airy texture that breaks apart easily, almost like a honeycomb. It sits somewhere between wax and shatter in terms of firmness, but without the stickiness that some concentrates have. That makes it one of the easier textures to work with, especially for people who prefer less mess.

Why People Like Crumble

Many people like crumble because it’s simple to portion and doesn’t stick to everything. It’s easy to sprinkle, easy to store, and still delivers strong flavor without the extra handling challenges of softer concentrates.

How It’s Commonly Enjoyed

Crumble is often enjoyed using devices made for concentrates, like dab rigs or electronic dab devices. Some people also sprinkle small amounts on top of flower to add extra flavor and intensity. Since it breaks apart easily, it’s simple to portion without tools.

What You’ll Notice

• Dry, crumbly, honeycomb-like texture
• Less sticky than wax or budder
• Aroma becomes more noticeable when warmed

Best for: People who want a low-mess concentrate that’s easy to portion and handle.

‍

Are Concentrates More Potent Than Flower?

Short answer: yes, usually.

Because concentrates pack more of the plant into a smaller space, they tend to be stronger than traditional flower. That doesn’t mean they’re “too much,” it just means a little goes a long way. Many people find that taking things slow helps them enjoy concentrates without overdoing it.

It’s less about rushing and more about finding your comfortable pace.

‍

Picking the Right Concentrate for You

When you’re browsing concentrates, it helps to think about:

• Do you prefer creamy, firm, or crumbly textures?
• How important is flavor to you?
• Do you plan to vape, dab, or add it to flower?
• How comfortable are you with stronger products?
  

Concentrates aren’t just about strength; they’re about flexibility. Some fit great into chill nights at home, some work well for social settings, and others are perfect for people who love exploring new flavors and strains.

Knowing the basics makes it way easier to choose something that fits your plans instead of guessing.

‍

Concentrates Don’t Have to Be Complicated

At first glance, cannabis concentrates can seem like a whole new world. But once you understand the basics, they’re just another way to explore cannabis whether that’s through smooth oils, creamy wax, snappy shatter, or ultra-flavorful live concentrates.

Curious to check them out? Stop by Metro Cannabis Dispensary and chat with a friendly budtender who can help you explore oils, wax, shatter, and live concentrates that match your style and comfort level.

‍