Cannabis

Edibles vs. Smoking Weed: Which Method Is Right for You?

Budora Team
May 14, 2025
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When it comes to consuming cannabis, there are various methods available, but two of the most popular are edibles vs. smoking weed. While both methods offer distinct benefits and experiences, it’s important to understand the differences to make the best choice for your lifestyle. Whether you’re new to cannabis or a seasoned user, deciding between smoking and eating cannabis can have a significant impact on how you experience its effects.

In this article, we break down the pros and cons of edibles vs. smoking weed, discussing the onset time, duration, and unique effects of each consumption method to help you determine which one is right for you.

Key Highlights

Edibles deliver a long-lasting high (4-8 hours), while smoking offers a fast-acting effect that lasts 1-3 hours.
Edibles take 30 minutes to 2 hours to kick in, whereas smoking provides immediate relief within minutes.
Edibles are perfect for discreet, extended relief, while smoking is ideal for quick, controllable cannabis use.

What Are Edibles and How Do They Work?

Edibles are any food or drink products infused with cannabis, typically containing THC or CBD. Some of the most common types of edibles include THC gummies, chocolates, cookies, and beverages. Unlike smoking or vaping, edibles go through the digestive system, and the cannabinoids are metabolized in the liver, which transforms THC into a more potent form. This can lead to stronger effects that last much longer than when smoking weed.

How Long Do Edibles Last?

One of the defining characteristics of edible cannabis effects is their long-lasting duration. When consumed, the effects can last anywhere from 4 to 8 hours, depending on the dosage and individual metabolism. This extended duration makes edibles a popular choice for people looking for long-lasting relief for conditions like chronic pain or insomnia. Further to ensure you’re consuming edibles safely and effectively, especially as a beginner, consider reading about guides on how to dose cannabis edibles safely.

Edible THC Effects

When you consume edibles, the THC is converted into a more potent form in the liver, leading to a stronger and longer-lasting high. This is especially appealing to those who are seeking intense, body-focused effects, as edibles tend to induce a more relaxing, sedative experience.

What Is Smoking Weed and How Does It Work?

Smoking cannabis involves inhaling the smoke produced from burning cannabis flowers. This method of consumption delivers THC and other cannabinoids directly into your lungs, where they are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream, producing almost immediate effects.

Unlike edibles, smoking provides an instant onset time—usually within minutes. However, the effects tend to be shorter-lived, generally lasting between 1 to 3 hours depending on the potency of the strain and individual tolerance.

Smoking Weed Benefits

Some of the main benefits of smoking cannabis include:

Instant Onset: You’ll feel the effects almost immediately, making it ideal for quick relief.
Control Over Dosage: Smoking allows you to easily adjust the amount you consume by taking smaller hits or stopping when you feel satisfied.
No Digestive Process: Since smoking bypasses the digestive system, users can gauge the effects more precisely and decide whether to take more or stop.

While smoking might not have the long-lasting effects of edibles, it does offer quick, targeted relief for conditions like stress, anxiety, or pain. If you’re new to smoking, it’s essential to approach it responsibly. Check out a guide on smoking a joint for the first time provides valuable tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Edibles vs. Smoking: Onset Time Comparison

One of the most significant differences between smoking vs. eating cannabis is the onset time.

Smoking weed: The effects are felt within minutes as the THC enters the bloodstream almost immediately.
Edibles: The onset time is much slower, typically taking between 30 minutes to 2 hours for the full effects to be felt as the cannabis has to pass through the digestive system.

This difference in onset time can significantly impact your experience. If you’re looking for quick relief or a fast-acting high, smoking might be the better choice. However, if you want longer-lasting effects and don’t mind waiting, edibles could be more beneficial.

Edibles vs. Smoking: Pros and Cons

Both cannabis consumption methods have their advantages and drawbacks. Let’s break down the pros and cons of each method:

Edibles Pros

Longer-lasting effects (4-8 hours).
Ideal for discreet consumption (no smoke or odor).
Provides a strong, full-body high, which is great for relaxation or managing pain.

Edibles Cons

Delayed onset (takes 30 minutes to 2 hours).
Harder to control dosage, leading to the risk of overconsumption.
Not suitable for people who need immediate relief.

Smoking Weed Pros

Instant onset (effects are felt within minutes).
Easy to control dosage by taking small hits.
Ideal for those who want a quick high without waiting.

Smoking Weed Cons

Shorter duration (effects last 1-3 hours).
May not be suitable for those with respiratory issues.
Can be inconvenient in public due to smoke and odor.

Which Is Better: Edibles or Smoking?

The answer to whether you should choose edibles vs smoking weed largely depends on your personal preferences and needs:

Choose edibles if you want a long-lasting, potent high, and don’t mind the delayed onset time.
Choose smoking if you prefer instant relief, have a higher tolerance, or are seeking a quick, moderate high.

It’s also possible to enjoy both methods depending on the situation. For instance, smoking can be great for a quick high before socializing, while edibles may be more suited for a relaxing evening or long-term relief from pain. And thanks to services like weed delivery in Vancouver, getting what you need—whether it’s flowers or edibles—is easier and faster than ever.

Conclusion

Choosing between edibles vs smoking weed ultimately depends on what you’re looking for in your cannabis experience. Whether you opt for the instant effects of smoking or the long-lasting relief from edibles, understanding the onset time comparison, the duration of effects, and your personal preferences will help you decide the best method of consumption for your needs. Always start with a low dose, especially with edibles, and adjust according to your tolerance.

FAQs

How long do edibles take to kick in?

The effects of edibles typically take between 30 minutes and 2 hours to kick in, depending on your metabolism and the amount of food in your stomach.

Are edibles stronger than smoking?

Yes, edibles tend to be stronger because the THC is metabolized into a more potent form by the liver. This leads to a more intense, long-lasting effect.

Can I smoke and eat cannabis at the same time?

Yes, you can use both methods together, but be cautious with the dosage to avoid consuming too much THC.

How long do the effects of smoking cannabis last?

The effects of smoking cannabis generally last between 1 to 3 hours, depending on your tolerance and the potency of the strain.

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Budora Team