Bongs are smoking devices that filter smoke through water before it reaches your lungs, making the process of smoking much easier than rolling a joint or packing a blunt. This results in pure, potent hits that feel sensational. Bongs come in various materials, with two of the most common being glass and plastic. So, Glass vs. Plastic Bongs: what’s better?
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Both types of bongs have their advantages and disadvantages. For instance, users who want cooler hits may prefer a glass bong, whereas a plastic bong can be ideal for those seeking something lighter and more affordable. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the pros and cons of glass and plastic bongs, helping you determine which is the best option for you.
Glass Bongs: Pros and Cons
Pros of Glass Bongs:
Glass bongs are often the first type that comes to mind when people think of bongs. They are incredibly popular due to their aesthetic appeal and performance. Glass is excellent at keeping your smoke smooth and cool as it travels through the bong. These bongs often come with additional features such as percolators, ice catchers, and diffused downstems, enhancing your smoking experience by further cooling and filtering the smoke.
Moreover, the variety in glass bongs is astounding, offering everything from scientific designs with multiple perks to elegant mini bongs, catering to different preferences and styles. Glass bongs can also double as decorative art pieces, adding a touch of elegance to your collection and making them a conversation starter.
Cons of Glass Bongs:
However, glass bongs do have their drawbacks. They are more fragile compared to plastic bongs. Even though many are made from high-quality borosilicate glass, they can still crack or break if dropped or exposed to extreme temperatures. Maintenance is another consideration; residue and bacteria can quickly accumulate on glass, requiring regular cleaning with rubbing alcohol or specialty cleaners. While this maintenance is fairly straightforward, it is an essential part of owning a glass bong to ensure a clean and enjoyable smoking experience.
Plastic Bongs: Pros and Cons
Pros of Plastic Bongs:
Plastic bongs, particularly those made from acrylic, are popular for their durability and affordability. They are highly resistant to damage, making them ideal for travel or those prone to accidents. If you knock over an acrylic bong, you don’t have to worry about it shattering. Additionally, plastic bongs are generally much cheaper than glass bongs, making them an attractive option for smokers on a budget. They are lightweight and easy to transport, perfect for on-the-go use or for bringing to social gatherings without the fear of breaking them.
Cons of Plastic Bongs:
Despite their benefits, plastic bongs have some significant disadvantages. The smoking experience they provide is often inferior to that of glass bongs. Hits from plastic bongs can feel warm and stale, akin to drinking water from a warm plastic bottle. Furthermore, plastic bongs lack the aesthetic appeal and customizability of glass bongs. They usually don’t come with advanced features like percolators or interchangeable parts, and their designs are often less visually appealing, making them more of a utilitarian choice than a centerpiece.
Glass vs. Plastic Bongs: Making the Right Choice
When it comes to choosing between glass bongs and plastic bongs, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and priorities. If you value maximum performance, customizability, and a high-quality smoking experience, a glass bong is likely the best choice. Glass bongs consistently provide smoother, cooler hits and offer the flexibility to enhance your bong with various accessories like ash catchers, additional percolators, and more.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for something durable, affordable, and practical for travel, a plastic bong might be more suitable. They are less likely to break and are a cost-effective option, making them great for those who need a reliable, portable bong for camping trips, music festivals, or even just casual use at home.
Some users find value in owning both types: a glass bong for enjoying premium hits at home and a durable acrylic bong for traveling or as a backup when the glass bong needs cleaning. Neither option is excessively expensive, so having both can cater to different needs and situations, giving you the best of both worlds.
Conclusion
In the debate of Glass vs. Plastic Bongs, glass bongs generally come out on top due to their superior performance, aesthetic appeal, and customizability. Although plastic bongs are cheaper and more durable, they fall short of providing the best smoking experience with smooth and cool hits.
Plastic bongs are still useful, especially for those who need a bong that can withstand rough handling or travel. However, if your priority is the quality of your smoke, investing in a glass bong is the way to go. Explore the wide range of glass bongs and smoking accessories available online to find the perfect piece that suits your preferences and enhances your smoking sessions. Whether you choose glass or plastic, both types of bongs offer unique benefits that can enhance your smoking experience in different ways.