10 Best Portable Dry Herb Vaporizers in 2023 (Reviewed & Compared)

If you’re relying on an average online list for the best dry herb vaporizers, prepare for a shock.

Chances are, you’ll waste money on an overpriced device that gives you a disappointing vaping experience.

Here you’re getting a list of the REAL best portable dry herb vaporizers in 2023.

With 100+ dry herb vaporizers reviewed, over a period of 6+ years, on metrics like:

• Extraction-speed,
• Safety,
• Vapor quality,
• Ease of use, and many more;

You can be sure you’ll find a device that perfectly matches your wants and needs.

Keep reading to start with the number one on our list.

Quick note: If you always vape at home, I recommend finding a stationary desktop vaporizer in our list of best desktop vaporizers.

#1. MIGHTY+ Vaporizer (Best for Beginners & Heavy Users)

Although the MIGHTY+ came out in 2021, we could say that it belongs to the older generation vaporizers.

Here’s why:

As vaporizer technology continues to improve, most new generation vaporizers work with a fast-extracting on-demand heating system.

Compared to session-based extraction like you get with the MIGHTY+, an on-demand extraction-system is fast, convenient, and efficient.

Compared to these newer generation portable vaporizers like the Tafée Bowle (#10), the MIGHTY+ is big, slow, and clunky.

Its heat-up time is slow (1-2 minutes). And it’s a huge and heavy device compared to the other portables on the list.

So in that sense, the MIGHTY+ is a bit of an old-timer in 2023.

When the original MIGHTY came out in 2014, and even up till 2020, it was one of the hardest-hitting portable vaporizers.

In 2023 though, vaporizers have evolved. And while the MIGHTY+ still produces hard-hitting clouds at an acceptable speed, if you’re looking for even harder-hitting and faster-extracting portable vaporizers, know that they’re available.

Reliability and Consistency: A Closer Look at MIGHTY+ Advantages

But the MIGHTY+ has two important benefits that these newer generation and even harder-hitting portable vaporizers don’t have. And these two things make us crown the MIGHTY+ still as the best overall portable vaporizer in 2023. I’m talking about:

• reliability, and
• consistency.

Now:

The MIGHTY+ came out in 2021, so it’s still a bit early to comment on its long-term reliability.

But the original MIGHTY, which is basically the same vaporizer with slightly older technology, shows us how reliable this vaporizer is for the long term.

Although the battery degraded a bit, my 6-year old original MIGHTY performs exactly the same as when I got it.

The original MIGHTY is also still one of the most-used vaporizers according to various online surveys. And that’s a huge feat, if you consider that it came out in 2014.

Problems with New Generation On-Demand Vaporizers

While these newer generation vaporizers extract fast and hit hard, their defect rates are significantly higher than the MIGHTY+.

They often try to fit a very powerful heater into a small device. In the long term, this leads to all sorts of issues, issues that the MIGHTY+ simply doesn’t have, including:

• accelerated degrading of electronics because of overheating issues,
• accelerated degrading of the battery,
• increased defect-rates.

Another problem that they have and the MIGHTY+ doesn’t is that these fast-extracting on-demand vaporizers are finnicky.

One day they work well, the other day they don’t and it’s not always immediately easy to understand why.

The User-friendly Nature of MIGHTY+: No Learning Curve

To make a newer-generation on-demand vaporizer perform well, you often have to go through a learning curve and go through more (complicated) steps than simply turning your vaporizer on. Or you even have to mod them in ways that are cumbersome of the average user.

Pretending I was someone who had no experience with vaporizers, I found the MIGHTY+ to be extremely beginner-friendly and easy to use. There were no complex settings to figure out – I simply turned it on and it worked. You can’t do anything wrong with this vape. You simply turn it on and it works well without any technique or modding.

It has a big bowl (0.3 grams) and has a version that’s medically certified, making it the best portable choice for heavy users or medical users.

As explained, the MIGHTY+ is a session vaporizer. This means it needs some time to get going (around 90 seconds).

But once it’s up and running its extraction speed is fast.

During one of my sessions, I decided to test out the MIGHTY+’s performance at its highest temperature settings. To my surprise, I was able to clear a full bowl in just under three minutes, a testament to its impressive extraction-speed.

MIGHTY OG vs MIGHTY+: What are the Main Upgrades?

Being a long-time user of the original MIGHTY, I was excited for the MIGHTY+. However, after using the newer version, I must admit, the upgrades are not impressive.

The main upgrades are:

• Improved charging with USB-C (you need a 45W USB-C charger and it’s not included with your purchase);
• Ceramic-coated bowl to prevent from wear and tear. The ceramic coating also reduces cleaning downtime (this is the best update);
• Being able to stand straight (the OG MIGHTY needed a separate stand for this);
• An improved heating element (didn’t experience any difference).

For existing MIGHTY owners, the MIGHTY+ might not offer a compelling enough reason to upgrade. But if you’re stepping into the world of vaping or switching from another device, the MIGHTY+ is the vaporizer to beat.

Conclusion: Why MIGHTY+ Remains the Best in 2023

Having used MANY portable vaporizers over the years, I can confidently say that the MIGHTY+ stands out as the most balanced vaporizer in terms of reliability, consistency, and performance. It continues to be my go-to vaporizer.

Here’s why:

• Reliability: Judging from its predecessor, the original MIGHTY, we can only expect the MIGHTY+ to last the test of time. No other vaporizer on our list can match this longevity.
• Consistency: You get the same great experience, day in and day out. Other vaporizers might deliver hit-or-miss sessions, but not the MIGHTY+. Every use is a home run.
• Beginner-friendly: With MIGHTY+, there’s no learning curve, no complications. Just turn it on, and it works.

So, who is the MIGHTY+ for?

If you’re a beginner, a heavy user, a medical marijuana user, or just someone who seeks a high-quality vaping experience without compromising on any front, the MIGHTY+ is your best bet.

Click the button below to go to the best deal for the MIGHTY+ (based on your country):

• US – (PlanetOfTheVapes / Vapor.com – 20% off coupon code “HERBONAUT20“)
• Europe – (VapoShop) 
• Canada – (PlanetOfTheVapes) 
• Amazon – (UK / DE) 

If you want to learn ALL the ins and outs of the original MIGHTY first, click below to go to its in-depth review:

In-depth review MIGHTY Vaporizer

If you’re looking for something more affordable…

#2. Arizer Solo II (Best Value)

If you’re looking to get the most value out of your money, you can’t go wrong with any Arizer vaporizer.

Literally all of their vaporizers are more affordable than the high-end vaporizers like the MIGHTY+ or CRAFTY+, but often perform similarly.

Arizer has a decade-long proven track-record of releasing vaporizers that:

• hit hard,
• taste well,
• are efficient,
• are reliable, lasting 5+ years easily,
• but cost less than $200.

But if we had to pick one that is a cut above the rest, it would be the Arizer Solo 2.

Here’s why:

It extracts the fastest and hits the hardest of all Arizer portable vaporizers.

Importance of Fast-extracting and Reliable Vaporizers

Fast-extracting and reliable vaporizers dominate our best vaporizer lists.

Why?

Because most reviewers at Herbonaut are ex-smokers and need a hard-hitting device.

And reliability is important because there’s nothing more disappointing than investing in a vaporizer just to have it break down after a few months of use. Some vaporizers last 10+ years without breaking a sweat. Now that’s what I call an investment.

The Arizer Solo 2: Proving its Worth Over Time

The Arizer Solo 2 came out in 2017, and today in 2023, my Arizer Solo 2 produces the same tasty clouds with the same extraction-speed as when I got it in 2017.

While new technology has some value, at Herbonaut we generally value long-term reliability over new technology.

In a way, a vaporizer like the Arizer Solo 2 is almost like aged wine. Yes it’s old, but as the years pass by and it keeps providing you great vapor, you start appreciating it more and more.

Any vaporizer that extracts fast, has good taste, and keeps performing the same after 5+ years of heavy use deserves an award.

Value for Money: The Arizer Solo 2 vs The MIGHTY+

While the Arizer Solo 2 may not produce as hard-hitting clouds as the MIGHTY+ or doesn’t have any medical certifications, it is almost twice as affordable.

That’s why it holds the 2nd spot on our list as the ‘best value for money option’.

If you’re looking for the best vaporizer under $200, this is it.

Safety Considerations: Isolated Air Paths

If safety is one of your top priorities, the following information is relevant:

The Arizer Solo 2 may not have an isolated airpath. The safety implications of this are probably insignificant.

But if you want full peace of mind, get a medically certified device like the MIGHTY+.

The Arizer Solo 2: An Upgrade from the Original Solo

As someone who has used the original Solo, I appreciate the upgrades in the Arizer Solo 2. They aren’t gimmicky, and are actual upgrades:

• No flavor deterioration after the first few draws. Consistency in flavor deep into your session;
• Faster extraction-speed leading to more potent clouds;
• Faster heat-up time (25 vs 60 seconds);
• Better battery life (150 minutes of continuous use vs 90), and;
• Precise temperature control for full control over the effects of your vapor.

Portability: The Arizer Solo 2 vs Pocket-sized Vapes

Now:

The Arizer Solo never was a pocket-vape. And the Solo 2 isn’t either.

This is a big and heavy portable vaporizer. It won’t be convenient to keep inside your pocket.

But if you don’t need pocket-sized vape and are looking for something around $150, this is one of your best options.

I highly recommend this vaporizer. It’s one of my favorites.

Click the button below to go to the best deal for the Arizer solo 2 (based on your country):

• US – (PlanetOfTheVapes / PuffItUp – 20% off coupon code “HERBONAUT20“)
• Europe – (VapoShop)
• Canada – (PlanetOfTheVapes)
• Amazon – (UK / DE) 

If you want to learn ALL the ins and outs of the Arizer Solo 2 first, click below to go to its in-depth review:

In-depth review Arizer Solo 2

Now:

The Arizer Solo II and MIGHTY are too big, bulky and heavy to be discreet.

The next vaporizers on the list, are compact, discreet, and pocketeable.

#3 TinyMight 2 (Hardest-Hitting Battery-Powered Vaporizer)

The original TinyMight is an absolute beast of a vaporizer.

It’s one of those new-generation on-demand, convection style powerhouses.

It’s probably the hardest-hitting battery-powered portable vaporizer.

It extracts the cannabinoids out of your herb violently FAST. I can clear a full bowl in 3-5 hits.

Past Challenges with Reliability and Shipping

The problem:

It wasn’t the most reliable of vapes and there seemed to be a large variety in quality control between devices.

Add to that the fact that it was shipped out of Finland, means that if you live in the U.S., you were in some real trouble if you ran into any issues.

Sending the device back to Finland, then waiting on a new one could easily take 2+ months.

Improvements and Performance of TinyMight 2

Now, the TinyMight 2 came out in 2022. And it addressed most of the reliability issues.

We only recently added it to our best of list, because we wanted to make sure it didn’t have similar reliability issues.

For example:

The TinyMight 1 over time could burn the o-ring inside the opening, leading to bad flavor and potential health issues. Also, my TinyMight didn’t cook my herb evenly. The outsides of my herb always looked fresh, while the inside looked almost burnt.

Well after testing the TinyMight 2 for 6 straight months, I can confirm:

My TinyMight 2 doesn’t have these issues. But looking up experiences from other vape enthusiasts, I don’t find anything out of the ordinary either.

It’s a more reliable device than the original TinyMight and it cooks your herb more evenly.

An added benefit is that it can now be ordered through reputable dealers residing in the U.S. like Planet of the Vapes.

So while the warranty claim still requires you to ship it back to Finland, the initial purchase can now be handled in the U.S.

User Experience and Recommendations

The TM2 will get you to a point where clouds are part of your regular forecast.

This thing produces more potent clouds than the MIGHTY+ or CRAFTY+ and gives butane-powered vapes like the Sticky Bricks a decent run for their money.

Honestly, it might be a bit too much for a beginner. Unless you’re an ex-smoker, then you’ll appreciate the clouds coming out of this beast.

However, this punch comes with its unique set of requirements. For starters, you need a stronger, longer pull to get even a small hit. It’s not exactly a sipper, so be ready to put some lung effort.

That’s also exactly the reason why I don’t recommend the TinyMight 2 for most medical users that need a more effortless experience. For medical users or people with asthma, I would definitely recommend the MIGHTY+.

Vapor Quality and Flavor Profile

The vapor of the TM2 leans more towards the harsher side, mainly due to its heat management.

It has a very powerful heater. A powerful heater and a short vapor path leads to harsh vapor.

If you’re looking for a relaxed vaping session, I recommend a session-vape like the MIGHTY+ or CRAFTY+ and not a powerful on-demand vape like this one.

It runs hot, especially at higher temperatures. I suggest investing in some aftermarket cooling stems or even a bubbler – they’ll help in taming this beast.

When it comes to flavor, the TM2 has an amazing first-hit. This first hit is where the TM2 truly shines – a burst of flavor that will be better than most vapes.

But as your session progresses, the flavor tends to mellow down, and towards the end, you might even get a hint of burnt taste.

It’s a different experience than an average session-vape. But when you clear your bowl in 3-4 hits, you probably wouldn’t care as much.

Its extraction speed is so fast, that basically all of the terpenes get extracted in the first hit, so the subsequent hits without terpenes suffer in flavor.

Battery and Portability

One of the key features that make the TM2 stand out is its removable battery.

While the Mighty+ has a very long battery life, the TM2 lets you swap out the battery and extend the battery-life in that way.

So while it’s battery-life is good considering the replaceable batteries…

Keep in mind it’s a big vaporizer and doesn’t classify as a pocket-vape. It’s pretty big and heavy.

Conclusion: Who is the TinyMight 2 for?

The TM2 is not for everyone – it’s power resulting in hot and harsh vapor, might be too much for some of you. Also the lung-power needed to get it going might feel cumbersome for some.

But for those who appreciate dense clouds, intense sessions, and don’t mind the extra effort, it’s a vape that delivers on its promises.

With its robust design, potent hits, and unique flavor profile, it brings a unique portable vaporizer experience to the table.
Click the button below to go to the best deal for the TinyMight 2 (based on your country):

• US – (PlanetOfTheVapes)
• Europe – (VapoShop)
• Canada – (PlanetOfTheVapes)

#4. CRAFTY+ (Best Pocket-Vape)

Small and powerful. That’s how the CRAFTY+ can be described in two words.

Having used both the MIGHTY+ and Arizer Solo 2 extensively, I can confirm that the compact CRAFTY+ packs a punch. It hits as hard as the MIGHTY+ and even harder than the Arizer Solo 2.

Despite its small size, it produces vapor clouds that compete with the larger units.

Comparison: CRAFTY+ vs. MIGHTY+

In many ways, the CRAFTY+ is like its bigger brother the MIGHTY+:

• it’s a session-vaporizer that takes a while to heat up, but extracts fast once it’s warm.
• it makes use of the same heater and internal design with an isolated air path.
• it provides vapor of good quality, not too harsh, and tasty, even later into your session,
• it’s extremely consistent and easy to use.

But there are two major differences between the CRAFTY+ and the MIGHTY:

• Size. While the MIGHTY is huge for a portable vape, the CRAFTY+ is a true pocket-vape. It’s small, compact, and lightweight. It will fit inside your pocket with ease.
• Long-term reliability. The CRAFTY+ has less battery-power and space to work with, but still makes use of the same powerful heater. This means the trapped heat can degrade the battery and electronics your CRAFTY+ quicker.

Even though the CRAFTY+ is smaller and therefore more convenient to carry around and use, because the CRAFTY+ scores lower on reliability than the MIGHTY+, it’s ranked lower.

Comparison: The CRAFTY+ vs. Other Pocket-sized Vapes

Now:

When it comes to pocket-sized vaporizers that hit hard, you have a few good options.

But when it comes electronic ones, the CRAFTY+ is currently the best one you can get.

The VapCap M (#7), for example, is a pocket-vape, can extract cannabinoids even quicker and hits even harder. But it’s a butane-powered vape and needs a butane lighter to function.

The POTV ONE (#8) is another pocket-sized electronic vaporizer that hits hard. But its flavor is worse and it’s build-quality is less robust than the CRAFTY+’s.

The best part?

Pocket-sized vaporizers have a reputation of being finicky.

When you have so little size to work with, either you put a less powerful heater inside, which makes the vaporizer’s performance finicky. Or you put a powerful heater inside, and the vaporizer’s long-term reliability starts to suffer.

For example:

Some pocket-vapes like the Arizer ArGo (#4 on the list) are finicky. The CRAFTY+, yet, is one of the most consistent pocket-vapes that you’ll ever use.

You just put in your herb, turn your CRAFTY+ on and it will create the same powerful clouds each session. Plus, deep into your session.

Ease of Use: The Fool-proof Nature of the CRAFTY+

Based on my experience, it’s one of the most fool-proof portable vaporizers out there. Even pretending I had no experience with vaporizers, I found it very easy to use:

• It has no learning curve, it’s one of the easiest vaporizers to use;
• It has no draw resistance, you can pull clouds out of your CRAFTY+ effortlessly. This means without having to use any lung/breathing power, and;
• It needs very little maintenance: no annoying, and drawn-out cleaning sessions.

All these characteristics make it a great beginner’s vape.

Within minutes, you’ll be up and running. Creating cloud after cloud, that will impress even vaping skeptics.

Temperature Control: The CRAFTY+ and its Phone App

If you didn’t know already:

The temperature you vape at has a large impact on the effects of your vapor.

A vaporizer with precise temperature control gives you more control over these effects.

As it turns out:

The CRAFTY+ has exactly that with the new phone app.

My initial thoughts on phone apps for vaporizers were skeptical due to past experiences with gimmicky and unreliable applications. And the CRAFTY+ with its app didn’t change these thoughts. Having the option to control the temperature settings on the device itself would’ve been much better.

The Drawbacks: Battery Life and Price

The two biggest downsides of this vape compared to others on the list are:

• Battery life. You only get 50ish minutes of continuous use. The batteries may degrade within a few years and they’re not swappable;
• Its high price of $230+. Other pocket vapes on the list will only set you back between $70 and $150. The CRAFTY+ isn’t a value-for-money option.

Conclusion: Who Should Get the CRAFTY+

But when it comes to small pocket vaporizers that:

• Extract cannabinoids and terpenes fast;
• Hit hard, and;
• Produce smooth vapor with great flavor…

It’s one of the few that I’ve never seen disappoint anyone.

If you’re looking for a pocket-sized vape and any of the following applies to you:

• You’re a medical user;
• You’re new to vaping;
• You’re an ex-smoker or have high-tolerance levels;
• You’re looking for an easy and reliable vaping experience,

Then get the CRAFTY+.

Click the button below to go to the best deal for the CRAFTY+ (based on your country):

• US – (PlanetOfTheVapes / Vapor.com – 20% off coupon code “HERBONAUT20“)
• Europe – (VapoShop)
• Canada – (PlanetOfTheVapes)
• Amazon – (CA / UK / DE) 

If you want to learn ALL the ins and outs of the CRAFTY first, click below to go to its in-depth review:

In-depth review CRAFTY Vaporizer

Even though the CRAFTY+’s price is totally worth it, it’s possible that you’re looking for something cheaper.

Next up a pocket-vape with amazing flavor…

#5. Arizer ArGo (Best Value Pocket-Vape)

If you’re a Herbonaut regular, you already know that we are big fans of Arizer vaporizers.

Arizer always brings out well-functioning vaporizers. Vaporizers that compete with high-end vaporizers on vapor quality and clouds…

But for a mid-tier price (below $200).

The only problem was:

If you were looking for a pocket-sized Arizer portable vape, you were out of luck.

Well, this all changed with the Arizer ArGo.

Although Arizer ArGo isn’t the first portable vaporizer brought to the market by Arizer…

The Arizer ArGo is the first portable vaporizer that classifies as a ‘pocket-vape’.

Design Advancements: Glass Air-paths and Compactness

Arizer portables are famous for their glass air-paths.

And while this is one of the main reasons why Arizer portables have amazing vapor quality…

Glass air-paths are often difficult to combine with a small size.

Yet, the Arizer ArGo comes with a glass stem and is pocket-sized.

The best part is that you can fully shove the glass stem inside your unit. It doesn’t take any extra space when not in use.

This design choice allows you to conveniently carry the ArGo in your pocket without worrying about the fragility of the glass stem. It also eliminates the need for a separate carrying case or the risk of damaging the stem during transport.

The compact size of the ArGo, combined with the glass stem’s integration, makes it an ideal choice if you prioritize flavor while vaping on-the-go.

This was always the problem with the Arizer Solo 1 and 2 and the Arizer Air 1 and 2. While these vapes provide vapor of good quality, the glass stem is always a hassle when carrying them around.

Balancing Performance, Size, and Reliability in Pocket-Vapes

Now, a small-size does bring a few downsides with it. For example:

• Compared to the Arizer Solo 2 (#2 on the list), the Arizer ArGo produces less powerful clouds.
• And the CRAFTY+(#3 in the list) shows that small size can go hand-in-hand with powerful clouds…

But small-size with a powerful heating element also can lead to reliability issues. This is what the original CRAFTY and the Grasshopper show. Reliability issues that a vaporizer like the Arizer ArGo simply doesn’t suffer.

And even though the Arizer ArGo doesn’t produce the most powerful clouds…

The clouds coming out of the Arizer ArGo are more potent than some other pocket-vapes like the PAX 3 or MIQRO. The potency of the clouds coming out of the DaVinci IQ2 (#5 on the list) and Arizer ArGo are comparable.

Power Source and Heat-up Time: The Challenges of Small Vapes

Another challenge for small pocket-vapes is battery life.

Vaporizer manufacturers tried to counter that problem. How? By making their vaporizers operate on standard and replaceable 18650 batteries.

The Arizer Argo operates on a standard and replaceable 18650 battery. But its battery life is as long you would expect from a large portable vaporizer: 80-90 minutes.

Now:

The Arizer ArGo does have a downside compared to other pocket vapes like the DaVinci IQ2 and PAX 3. It has a longer heat-up time:

It’s around 1 minute.

The ArGo: A Value-for-Money Choice for Pocket Vapes

But that’s really the only downside.

If the 60 seconds heat-up time doesn’t bother you and you don’t need a hard-hitter like the CRAFTY+…

You can’t get a better value-for-money pocket vape than the Arizer ArGo.

Click the button below to go to the best deal for the Arizer ArGo:

• US – (PlanetOfTheVapes / PuffItUp– 20% off coupon code “HERBONAUT20“)
• Europe – (VapoShop)
• Canada – (PlanetOfTheVapes)
• Amazon – (UK / DE) 

Next up is one of the most technologically advanced vapes…

#6. DaVinci IQ2 (Most Advanced Pocket Vape)

The DaVinci IQ2 is an upgrade from the original DaVinci IQ. It’s the 2nd most compact vape on our list.

The DaVinci IQ’s compactness can be best visualized like this:

You can fully hide it inside the palm of your hand.

Significant Upgrades of the DaVinci IQ2

When talking about vaporizer upgrades, we have to look at their significance.

Well, the DaVinci IQ2 definitely has some significant improvements over the original version:

• Cooler vapor at the higher temperature setting. The vapor is now smooth at all temperature settings;
• Adjustable airflow to increase/decrease draw-resistance and control the density of your vapor;
• Increased chamber size to 0.5 grams, but also: included dose pods of 0.2 grams. Now you can choose to micro-dose or go for a long session.
• Improved design to ease to cleaning and maintenance process. The original IQ had parts that were very hard to clean like under the flavor chamber;
• A dose calculator that calculates how many active compounds you’re inhaling. It’s based on the potency of your strain.

The Advanced Features and Efficiency of IQ2

The original IQ was already quite an advanced vape…

But these upgrades make the DaVinci IQ2 now the ‘most advanced’ portable vaporizer.

Not only do you have many variables you can adjust to control the effects and taste of your vapor…

But:

IF you know the potency of your herb, you now also know approximately how much THC/CBD you’re vaping.

Why does this matter?

Well, you can track approximately how much THC/CBD you need to produce a particular effect in you.

Let’s say you vape a high-CBD strain (20% CBD) to reduce anxiety. You need 50mg of CBD to achieve a calm mood. Setting your target of 50mg, the app will then calculate based on the CBD-percentage of your herb through an algorithm how many hits at what temperature ranges you need to inhale 50mg of CBD.

In theory, this is great for efficiency and replicability. In practice, this function is a bit gimmicky. But it’s a great step towards the measuring and ‘scientification’ of vaping.

The IQ2: Its Drawbacks and Strengths

One drawback of the IQ2 is its price point. Compared to other portable vaporizers on the market, the IQ2 is on the higher end in terms of cost.

Another con is that cleaning and maintaining the IQ2 is a bit more complex than some other vaporizers on the list.

The various parts and components, including the flavor chamber and the adjustable airflow system, need regular cleaning to function optimally. For example, the MIGHTY+ and CRAFTY+ mostly just need regular bowl-cleaning, and only periodic cleaning of the other parts.

Now:

For a compact pocket vape, the IQ2 produces pretty big clouds. And the quality of the vapor is very good. Much better than most compact pocket-vapes like the PAX 3.

Here’s why this is so impressive:

Most conduction vaporizers give your vapor a ‘burnt popcorn’ taste after 3-4 hits.

The DaVinci IQ2 is great at flavor retention. It takes 8-9 hits before your flavor starts getting worse.

It’s the best-tasting conduction vape that I’ve tested (better than the PAX 3). So good that its vapor quality is comparable to convection/hybrid vapes.

If you’re looking for an advanced pocket-vape, with great vapor quality and potency…

Get the DaVinci IQ2.

Click the button below to go to the best deal for the DaVinci IQ (based on your country):

• US – (DaVinci Off. Website)
• Europe – (VapoShop)
• Canada – (PlanetOfTheVapes)

Important note:

DaVinci brought out a new vaporizer, the DaVinci IQC. This isn’t a better vaporizer than the IQ2. But it’s almost $70 cheaper.

Plus:

• It’s safety tested for metals;
• Charges with USB-C instead of micro-USB, and;
• Tt has a quicker charge-up time (2 hours vs 4-5 hours).

But it also has downsides to the IQ2:

• It doesn’t have adjustable airflow,
• Has a lower quality mouthpiece (plastic vs ceramic zirconia),
• Doesn’t have a dose calculator.

If you already have the IQ2 this isn’t worth the upgrade. If you don’t have an IQ vaporizer yet, and are looking for something more affordable, I recommend getting the IQC.

If you want to learn ALL the ins and outs of the original DaVinci IQ first, click below to go to its in-depth review:

In-depth review DaVinci IQ

Next up an even smaller and more compact vape…

#7. Sticky Brick OG Brick (Best Butane-Vape)

Although some battery-powered portable dry herb vaporizers hit hard…

None of them come close to how hard the Sticky Brick vaporizers hit.

Managing Flame and Vapor with Sticky Brick

Sticky Brick vaporizers are butane-powered vaporizers that have a learning curve.

How exactly you use the torch lighter and how fast you draw have a large influence on the:

• Size,
• Temperature, and,
• Flavor,

Of the clouds you produce.

Generally, the closer the flame to the bowl, the bigger your clouds. But also the closer the flame to the bowl, the higher the temperature of your vapor.

In practice, any Sticky Brick vaporizer can produce some very harsh vapor because of this mechanism.

Why the Sticky Brick OG Brick Stands Out

And that’s exactly the reason why of all Sticky Brick models, the one we like the most is the Sticky Brick OG Brick.

While OG Brick isn’t the smallest, its size is actually a benefit. Its vapor path is longer than that of the smaller versions like the Sticky Brick Runt or Junior.

This longer vapor path makes it more difficult to combust, which means it’s more user-friendly. It also gives the vapor more room to cool down before it reaches you, which means less harsh vapor.

As explained, there’s a learning curve. Finding the right technique for using the torch lighter and determining the optimal draw-speed will require some practice and experimentation.

But once you got everything down, the Sticky Brick OG will bless you with extremely hard-hitting clouds.

This vaporizer can extract a full bowl of 0.4 grams faster than you can inhale it.

The Pure Taste and Recommended Use of the Sticky Brick OG Brick

And because these vaporizers:

• Are one of the few pure convection-heated portable vaporizers, and;
• Have a vapor path that mostly consists of glass…

These hard-hitting clouds taste amazing. They taste as pure as it gets with portable dry herb vapes. Depending on how close you put the torch lighter to the bowl, the vapor can get harsh though.

If you want to vape at these high temperatures, I recommend using a bubbler with your Sticky Bricks OG.

I also highly recommend using the restrictor disc, no matter what.

If you don’t use this attachment, your chances of combusting and harsh vapor increase.

Final Thoughts on the Sticky Brick OG Brick

When you’re looking for the hardest-hitting portable vaporizer and don’t care about being discreet or using a butane torch lighter…

The Sticky Brick OG Brick won’t disappoint you.

Click the button below to go to the best deal for the Sticky Brick OG (based on your country):

• US – (PlanetOfTheVapes / PuffItUp– 20% off coupon code “HERBONAUT20“)
• Europe – (VapoShop)
• Canada – (PlanetOfTheVapes)

Important note: To reduce butane-related health risks, use the purest butane you can get and keep a good distance between the torch lighter and your bowl.

Next up is the best on-demand vape on the list…

#8. DynaVap VapCap M and OmniVap (Best for Microdosing)

When looking at vaporizers for on-the-go, we’re not the biggest fans of butane torches.

But the DynaVap vaporizers are butane-powered vapes that are easy to use, even while you’re out.

Here’s why:

Most butane-powered vaporizers need a big and powerful butane torch to produce vapor. Some of them need such a big butane torch lighter, that carrying it around is impossible without a bag.

Yet, the DynaVap vaporizers function well with any small butane torch lighter.

Discreetness and Efficiency: VapCap and OmniVap

Then there’s the following disadvantage with most butane vapes:

Most butane vapes need at least 40-50 seconds to heat up. Putting the flame from your large torch lighter to your vaporizer for 40-50 seconds is:

1. Not very discreet;
2. Not very convenient to do without having something to support your vaporizer, and;
3. Emits a strong butane smell.

With the VapCap and OmniVap, you only need to heat up for 10-15 seconds.

And while this still isn’t as discreet as a battery-powered vape…

It’s much more discreet than using a huge torch lighter to heat up your vape for close to a full minute.

The main benefit of the VapCap compared to the other vaporizers is that it provides vapor on-demand.

On-Demand vs Session Vapes: Efficiency and Taste

On-demand heating means that your herb only gets heated in intervals of 5-30 seconds. On-demand heating is a quick burst of heat, extracting only a part of the bowl. The unextracted part you can save for later.

Session vapes (every other vape on the list) are different.

With a session vape, when you turn it on, it stays on for 5-10 minutes. Whether you’re drawing vapor or not, a session vape continuously cooks your herb. It extracts cannabinoids for these full 5-10 minutes that it’s on.

Because a session-vape cooks your herb for 5-10 minutes, it’s less efficient than an on-demand vape. As explained, on-demand heating works with quick intervals of 5-30 seconds.

Another benefit of on-demand vaporizers:

Re-heating herb that’s been inside the bowl of a session-vape tastes horrible. That’s why we always recommend finishing your full bowl with session vapes. If you put 0.1 grams inside your session vape, it’s best you finish this 0.1 grams in one go.

With the VapCap M, you don’t have this issue. You can put 0.1 grams inside the bowl and take hits whenever you want with many hours in-between hits.

With the VapCap, you put your dry herb into the bowl, heat up the bowl with your torch lighter for 10-15 seconds, and can decide to take only a single hit…

Without wasting any herb or messing up the taste of any uncooked dry herb that’s left inside the bowl.

Micro-Dosing with VapCap M and OmniVap

This on-demand heating system makes the VapCap M and OmniVap extremely efficient. And because of its small bowl capacity (0.1 grams), the VapCap M is also great for micro-dosing.

The OmniVap is even better for micro-dosing because it comes with an adjustable titanium screen in its bowl. With this screen, you can reduce the bowl-size to 0.025 grams.

With such a small bowl-size vaping pinches of herb becomes extremely easy. And the best part is that even these pinches result in very potent clouds.

Keep in mind that an on-demand heating system with a small bowl can also be experienced as a drawback. If you like longer sessions or are a heavy user, constantly heating or reloading your vaporizer is going to be a hassle.

Comparison: VapCap M vs OmniVap

Now, the VapCap M is the cheapest vaporizer on the list ($69). The OmniVap is significantly more expensive ($189). Here are the three main differences between these two vapes:

• The OmniVap comes with adjustable airflow settings (through the mouthpiece)
• The OmniVap comes with adjustable bowl-settings. The VapCap M has a fixed capacity of 0.1 grams, the OmniVap’s bowl capacity is reducible to 0.025 grams
• The VapCap comes with a stainless steel body and mouthpiece. The OmniVap has more options when it comes to materials, you can get a wooden unit, a titanium mouthpiece etc.

If you only want to reduce your bowl-size, there’s another (and cheaper) option to achieve the same results. Instead of getting an OmniVap get a VapCap M and buy the titanium tip for it separately.

Conclusion: Why the VapCap M is a Winner

If you’re looking for a very powerful and efficient on-demand vape that only costs $69…

and don’t mind the idea of having to use a butane torch lighter to heat up your vaporizer…

The VapCap M is currently not only the best on-demand vape but also the best vape under $100.

Click the button below to go to the best deal for the VapCap M or OmniVap (based on your country):

• US – (PlanetOfTheVapes / PuffItUp– 20% off coupon code “HERBONAUT20“)
• Europe – (VapoShop)

#9. Planet of the Vapes ONE (Best Under $100)

Most beginners want to try out vaping, without spending hundreds of dollars on a premium vaporizer.

They’re simply looking for the cheapest dry herb vaporizer there is.

Well, here’s the deal:

There are only a few vaporizers below $100 that actually:

• Function well;
• Produce great quality vapor, and;
• Are made from non-toxic materials.

The one we currently like the most is the POTV ONE.

Comparing the POTV ONE and Flowermate Vaporizers

The Flowermate vaporizers are another great option if you’re looking for good quality budget vapes.

But they’re outclassed by the POTV ONE in almost all aspects:

• Hard-hitting clouds (the ONE extracts cannabinoids very fast and can produce big clouds);
• Vapor quality (the ONE produces vapor that’s full of flavor and smooth in the low-to-mid temperature ranges);
• Draw-resistance (the ONE has very little of it);
• Efficiency (with the dosing capsules the ONE works with .025-.05 grams).

The only thing that the Flowermate vapes did better is battery life.

Drawbacks: Battery-life and Initial Plastic Smell

The battery life of the POTV ONE isn’t the best:

You only get around 30 minutes of continuous use.

The batteries also aren’t swappable. A short battery life with non-swappable batteries isn’t the best combination.

But this vape is small and easily pocketable. Small size and great battery life usually don’t go hand in hand.

Another potential downside is that this vape emits a strong plastic smell in the beginning. The culprit is the blue plastic gasket right below the mouthpiece.

That’s why I highly recommend washing the blue plastic gasket properly with soap. And also doing 2-3 burn-off sessions before using your ONE the first time.

A Beast of a Vaporizer for Less than $100

If you can live with the subpar battery life and initial cleaning/burn-off sessions…

Then you’re getting a beast of a vaporizer for less than $100.

One big benefit of this vape compared to others on the list is that it’s designed to be used with a bubbler. You can get a handy mini-bubbler for only $10 extra when you order this vape from the links below.

A beginner’s/budget vape should be very easy to use.

The POTV ONE perfectly fits that requirement:

It has no learning curve and is easy to maintain (as long as you really ‘maintain’ it by cleaning it after every few sessions).

Who Should Choose the POTV ONE?

The POTV ONE is the perfect vaporizer for:

• Beginners;
• Anyone that wants to stay under $100, or;
• Anyone looking for a reliable and cheap backup vape.

Click the button below to go to the best deal for the POTV ONE (based on your country):

• US – (PlanetOfTheVapes)
• Canada – (PlanetOfTheVapes)
• Amazon – (UK / DE) 

In-depth review POTV ONE

Next up is the vaporizer that’s also called the ‘budget-MIGHTY’…

#10. Boundless Tera v3 (Hardest-Hitter Under $200)

The Boundless Tera is one of the harder-hitting portable vaporizers on the market. And because of its size, it’s a direct competitor of the MIGHTY+.

But that’s not the only reason why it’s a direct competitor to the MIGHTY. It’s a similar vaporizer to the MIGHTY in other aspects as well:

• Just like the MIGHTY, the Boundless Tera functions mostly based on convection heating,
• Just like the MIGHTY, it’s a session vaporizer that needs some time to heat up (30 seconds), but extracts fast once warm.
• Just like the MIGHTY, you’ll have full control over the effects of your vapor with precise temperature control.

Vapor Quality and How to Improve It

But here’s the kicker:

The vapor quality of the Boundless Tera V3 is worse than that of the MIGHTY.

Because the Boundless Tera doesn’t have a proper cooling mechanism like the MIGHTY (#1) or CRAFTY+ (#3), the flavor gets harsh. This is especially true on the higher temperature settings.

It gets better:

With a bubbler, it’s very easy to smooth out the vapor of the Tera V3 at the highest temperature settings.

Practical Considerations Regarding the Temperature Setting

And while some vapes on the list need extensive modding to be used with a bubbler…

The Boundless Tera on the other hand, is very easy to use with a bubbler. It’s because you get a water pipe adapter (WPA) included with your Boundless Tera purchase.

By using the Boundless Tera with a bubbler, you’ll prevent any harsh vapor even at the highest temperature settings.

But ask yourself if you’re willing to pull out a bubbler every time you want to vape at higher temperature settings.

That’s exactly the reason why I don’t recommend this vape for on the go if you like to vape at high temperatures (above 392°F/ 200°C).

Learning Curve and Battery Life

When it comes to ease of use:

The Boundless Tera is almost as easy to use as the MIGHTY. There’s no learning curve. Although it has slightly more draw-resistance than the MIGHTY and CRAFTY+, it’s still less than other vapes on the list.

And even though the Boundless Tera’s battery life is worse than that of the MIGHTY: 50 minutes vs 90 minutes…

With the Boundless Tera you get replaceable batteries.

So if you think you need more than 50 minutes out of your Tera, just bring two extra 18650 batteries. The Boundless Tera operates on two standard 18650 batteries.

Conclusion

Comparing the Boundless Tera to the MIGHTY, get the Boundless Tera when:

• You’re looking for the same speed of extraction and clouds
• You can live with a bit of harshness at the higher temperature settings, OR;
• You’re fine with using a bubbler, and;
• You find the MIGHTY too expensive ($210 for the Boundless Tera vs. $300+ for the MIGHTY).

Click the button below to go to the best deal for the Boundless Tera (based on your country):

• US – (Boundless Tech Website – 15% off coupon code “HERBO15“/ PlanetOfTheVapes)
• Europe – (VapoShop)
• Canada – (NamasteVaporizers)
• Amazon – (CA / UK / DE) 

Frequently Asked Questions about Dry Herb Vaporizers

Are dry herb vaporizers safe? Do they damage the lungs?

Vaping with a dry herb vaporizer is not completely without risk.

But studies show that marijuana vapor contains significantly less:

• Tar;
• Carcinogens, and;
• Other toxic by-products;

than marijuana smoke (1).

Keep in mind that at least one study found that vaping above 392°F(200°C) risks emitting significantly more benzene (2). Benzene is a carcinogenic compound (3). If you want to minimize health risks, we highly recommend that you vape below 392°F(200°C).

When it comes to vaping in general, some research found that up to 95% of:

• Toxins;
• Carcinogens, and;
• Irritants,

found in smoke are NOT present in vapor produced by vaporizers (4).

If you use a quality vaporizer like one from this list, vaping cannabis is without a doubt, less harmful than smoking it.

Keep in mind to reduce your health risks while vaping, you need to get a vaporizer that’s:

• Made of high-quality materials;
• Has a safe design, and;
• Comes from a reputable brand.

If you want to learn more about the safety of dry vaporizers, read this article.

Keep in mind that the guidelines in the article are given on a very general level. You can never know whether a particular vaporizer off-gasses or leaks micro-particles that can be harmful to your health. That is, unless a true scientific test is done.

Does vaping weed smell?

Although much less than smoking, vaping weed does smell.

Yet, vaping weed won’t smell as strong as smoking it.

The benefit of vapor is that it dissipated 10-times faster into the air than smoke.

Smoke keeps lingering around for days in your clothes and furniture.

The tar, which is a by-product of burnt plant material, sticks on surfaces and fabrics. If not removed it can stay there for years.

Is the high from vaping different compared to smoking?

The high from vaping can be different from smoking because you reduce 95% of toxins found in smoke. You’ll get a much cleaner and clearer effect than smoking.

In fact, a recent study found that vaporized cannabis produced higher concentrations of THC in blood than smoked cannabis. The study compared effects with equal doses of smoked cannabis (5).

Are vaporizers worth it? Will vaping really work for me?

Vaping works for most people. But if you’re looking to re-create the smoking experience with 100% exactness, it’s best you give up on that thought right now.

Vaping will never be exactly the same as smoking.

There are hundreds of toxins, irritants, and carcinogens present in marijuana smoke. All these compounds have an effect on how a joint/blunt makes you feel (mostly for the worse part).

All these toxins, irritants, and carcinogens are exactly the reason why vaping will never feel exactly the same as smoking…

But the absence of them is also the main reason why vaping is always described as a purer/cleaner feeling.

Vaping gives you the opportunity to experience the beneficial effects of cannabinoids WITHOUT all the:

• Toxins;
• Irritants, and;
• Carcinogens,

that are inside marijuana smoke.

Desktop vs Portable Vaporizers

Portable dry herb vaporizers are battery-powered and cordless.

If you ever plan to vape outdoors or just want to be mobile while vaping, they’re the only choice you have.

And while their biggest advantage is that they’re usable anywhere at any time, they actually have a few more advantages:

• Discreetness;
• Small size;
• The possibility to be quick and stealthy.

These advantages come at a price though.

Most portable vapes are not as powerful as their desktop brothers.

But there are a few portable vaporizers that rival the performance of the most powerful desktop vaporizers (#1 MIGHTY+).

But when you don’t need to be portable, and will always vape in the comfort of your own home…

Just go for a desktop vaporizer.

Here’s why:

The biggest advantage portable vaporizers have over desktop vapes is their mobility.

In all other areas you will get more value for your money with a desktop vaporizer:

• They’re more powerful;
• More reliable;
• They’re easier to share with friends;
• Easier to set up with all kinds of inhalation methods (whip, balloon, bubbler).

In fact:

Even if you need a portable vaporizer, it might be a good idea to get a desktop vaporizer for when you’re at home anyway.

Because they don’t have to be that expensive.

For a list of our current best-rated desktop vaporizers, click the link below:

• Desktop Vaporizers

What’s Next…

If you want personalized advice for your specific situation, shoot us an email and we will give you your best options based on:

Your budget, and which categories you find most important in your vaporizer:

• Extraction speed (fast extraction leads to potent clouds);
• Vapor quality (flavor and smoothness/harshness);
• Safety (of materials and design);
• Reliability (defects, long-term reliability);
• Ease of use (learning curve, draw-resistance, cleaning);
• Efficiency (how much herb you need or how much gets wasted while medicating);
• Temperature control;
• Battery life, and;
• Portability.

If you’re interested in how exactly we rate these vaporizers, click the link below:

• Herbonaut’s Vaporizer Rating System

If you want to learn more about vaping check out the following vaping and vaporizer guides:

• What’s the Best Temperature to Vape Weed?
• Are Vaporizers Safe? A Guide on How to Avoid Health Issues
• How to Use a Vaporizer: 5 Essential Tricks to Optimize the Performance of ANY Vaporizer

If you still need a grinder for an easy way to grind your herb, check out our buyer’s guide on herb grinders:

• The Best Weed Grinders for Efficient Smoking, Vaping & Kief Building

If you want a bubbler for your vaporizer to smooth out your vapor even further and moisten it, check out our buyer’s guide on bongs and bubblers:

• Best Bongs and Bubblers

And if you want to get the best vaporizers for vaping concentrates, check out our buyer’s guide on wax pens:

• The Best Vape Pens for Oil, Oil Cartridges & Wax (Oil, Dab & Wax Pens)

Lastly, if you want to connect with us, become a fan on Facebook, or follow us on Instagram by clicking the links below.

Scientific References:

1. Gieringer, D., St. Laurent, J., & Goodrich, S. (2004). Cannabis Vaporizer Combines Efficient Delivery of THC with Effective Suppression of Pyrolytic Compounds. Journal of Cannabis Therapeutics, 4(1), 7–27. https://doi.org/10.1300/j175v04n01_02

2. Gieringer, D. H. (2001). Cannabis “Vaporization.” Journal of Cannabis Therapeutics, 1(3–4), 153–170. https://doi.org/10.1300/j175v01n03_10

3. Smith, M. T. (2010). Advances in Understanding Benzene Health Effects and Susceptibility. Annual Review of Public Health, 31(1), 133–148. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev.publhealth.012809.103646

4. Farsalinos, K. E., Kistler, K. A., Pennington, A., Spyrou, A., Kouretas, D., & Gillman, G. (2018). Aldehyde levels in e-cigarette aerosol: Findings from a replication study and from use of a new-generation device. Food and Chemical Toxicology, 111, 64–70. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fct.2017.11.002

5. Spindle, T. R., Cone, E. J., Schlienz, N. J., Mitchell, J. M., Bigelow, G. E., Flegel, R., . . . Vandrey, R. (2018). Acute Effects of Smoked and Vaporized Cannabis in Healthy Adults Who Infrequently Use Cannabis. JAMA Network Open, 1(7), e184841. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2018.4841