Distillate vs live resin vapes — what’s the difference?

Distillate vs live resin vapes — what’s the difference? (Dear Ashley explains)

Dear Ashley,

I’ve been trying to figure out which vape will work best for me. What’s the difference between distillate and live resin vapes? Is one better than the other?

— Ben W.

Hey Ben, great question!

With so many vapes on the shelf, it can feel a little overwhelming. You’re definitely not alone in wondering which one is right for you. The truth? It often comes down to the experience you’re looking for and the flavor profile you enjoy. Let’s break it down.

Distillate vapes

Distillate is like the “clean slate” of cannabis. It’s highly refined THC — potent, consistent, and discreet. Because much of the plant’s natural flavor is removed during the process, many brands add botanical terpenes (like citrus or berry notes) or even extra cannabinoids (like CBD or CBN) to customize the effect.

👉 Best for guests who want predictable potency, sweeter flavors, or a more discreet option.

Distillate + botanical terpenes or ratios

Think of this as distillate with a twist. By layering in plant-derived terpenes or cannabinoids, you can create blends that lean fruity, kushy, or calming — sort of like seasoning your food to taste.

👉 A great pick for those who want sweeter profiles or effect-driven blends.

Live resin vapes

Live resin is a flavorful strain specific option. It’s crafted from flower that has been flash-frozen right after harvest, which locks in the plant’s natural terpenes and cannabinoids. The result? A vape that smells and tastes like the flower it came from. It’s bold, aromatic, and often described as a truer-to-plant experience.

👉 Perfect for guests who want something that feels closer to smoking fresh flower with full body and mind effects.

• For bold, true-to-plant flavor and an experience closer to smoking flower: Live resin usually takes the win. Shop live resin here.

• For consistency, discretion, or sweet fruity/kushy profiles: Distillate (especially with added terpenes or ratios) is a solid choice. Shop distillate here.

Remember, everyone’s body responds uniquely to cannabis. Start low and slow until you find the product that feels just right for you.

Stop by Giving Tree for Guidance

Still not sure? Our friendly, knowledgeable budtenders at Giving Tree in North Phoenix will gladly walk you through your options and help you find your perfect fit. And don’t forget — Giving Tree is the only dispensary in Arizona with a 10-day risk-free guarantee. If you don’t love your product, bring it back within 10 days and exchange it for store credit.

Because finding your fit should be fun — not stressful.

🌿 Did You Know?

When you vape distillate or live resin, you’re inhaling cannabinoids directly into your bloodstream through your lungs. But with edibles, your liver converts THC into 11-hydroxy-THC, which can feel stronger and last longer. That’s why the experience is so different!

Have a cannabis question? Send it our way! You might just see it featured in next week’s Dear Ashley—your go-to guide for fun, friendly cannabis wisdom.

Submit question here.

Disclaimer: These statements above have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information and the products featured are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Do not use marijuana products if you are under 21 years of age or pregnant. Keep marijuana out of the reach of children. Enjoy responsibly.