Best Portable Dry Herb Vaporizers 2024
The best portable vaporizers for vaping dry herb and cannabis on the go.
What is a portable vaporizer?
Weed vaporizer technology has come a long way over the past few years. Stationary desktop vaporizers were once the norm, but portable vaporizers and dry herb pens have made dry herb vaping on the go possible.
To start, vaporizers are devices that use heat to create vapor from dry cannabis bud. Some vaporizers are designed to handle waxy concentrates as well. There’s one element that all of these devices have in common: no vaporizer uses combustion, but heating methods vary. Dry herb vaporizers are a healthier alternative to smoking flower.
Portable vaporizers make it simple to vape dry herb on the go. They’re handheld devices that can be carried around in a pocket or bag, though they tend to have more heft than a standard weed pen.
In-depth presentation of best products
PAX Plus
With each new release, PAX continues to step up their game. Their latest PAX PLUS is a dynamic conduction vaporizer wrapped in a rugged shell, perfect for on-the-go use. Vapers can toggle between four preset temperatures (“experience modes”): stealth, efficiency, flavor, and boost. Swap in the half-pack oven lid for smaller sessions.
- Bowl size: 0.5 grams
- Heat up time: 22 seconds
- Power/temp settings: 360 ℉ to 419 ℉ (182 ℃ to 215 ℃)
- Material compatibility: dry herb and concentrates
- Battery: 3300 mAh (non-replaceable)
- Build quality: Aluminum and steel
- Type of heat: conduction
- Vapor path: stainless steel
- Ease of cleaning: Easy
Like the PAX 3 before it, the PAX PLUS can handle both dry herb and waxy concentrates (with the aid of an adaptor). Cleaning is also simpler than in previous models. They’ve redesigned their multi-tool and upgraded to easily removable 3D oven screens, making maintenance a breeze. Get up to ten sessions on a single charge.
Storz & Bickel Mighty+
The Mighty+ by Storz & Bickel brings vaporizing dry herbs and waxy concentrates to another level. An upgrade to the original Mighty model, the Mighty+ features a sturdy body constructed from medical-grade plastic. For maximum ease of use, this portable vaporizer heats quickly with the press of a button.
- Bowl size: 0.15 grams to 0.25 grams
- Heat up time: 60 seconds
- Power/temp settings: 104° F to 410° F (40° C to 210° C)
- Material compatibility: dry herb and concentrates
- Battery: 2 × 3300 mAh (non-replaceable)
- Build quality: medical-grade plastic
- Type of heat: hybrid (convection and conduction)
- Vapor path: ceramic coated
- Ease of cleaning: moderately easy
Using a hybrid heating style that merges convection and conduction, the Mighty+ was designed with both effectiveness and efficiency in mind. Personalize your experience with precise temperature controls and an easy-to-master interface. The Mighty+ vaporizer comes with a handful of accessories, such as a cleaning brush and dosing capsule.
Storz & Bickel Crafty+
Storz & Bickel are champions of the portable vaporizer market, and the Crafty+ is more evidence of that. Pick up this fast-heating vaporizer and enjoy both dry herbs and waxy concentrates. It has a strong, stainless steel vapor path and a lightweight exterior. The device weighs in at just 135 grams.
- Bowl size: 0.2 grams to 0.25 grams
- Heat up time: 60 seconds
- Power/temp settings: 104° F to 410° F (40° C to 210° C)
- Material compatibility: dry herb and concentrates
- Battery: 2800 mAh (non-replaceable)
- Build quality: medical grade plastic (PEEK)
- Type of heat: hybrid (convection and conduction)
- Vapor path: stainless steel
- Ease of cleaning: moderately easy
The Crafty+ has low draw resistance and open airflow. This vaporizer heats up in only 60 seconds, even speedier than the original Crafty model. Set your temperature with the device, or use the Remote Control App for Android.
Arizer Solo II
The Solo II lives up to its name. It’s ideal for solo sessions with up to 0.2 grams of dry herb. Unlike most devices, the Solo II can vaporize ground-up or solid buds. It has a ceramic heating element and includes two borosilicate mouthpieces.
- Bowl size: 0.2 grams
- Heat up time: 28 seconds
- Power/temp settings: 50-200° C
- Material compatibility: dry herb
- Battery: 3 hours (non-replaceable)
- Build quality: stainless steel, borosilicate
- Type of heat: hybrid (convection and conduction)
- Vapor path: glass
- Ease of cleaning: easy
Its internal battery provides hours of vaping time. The device comes with a carrying case that secures to your waist. The Solo II utilizes removable glass stems that make loading and cleaning it easy. It’s versatile and extremely portable.
Firefly 2
The Firefly 2 heats up almost instantly. Unlike most weed vapes, it has on-demand heating. It’s always ready. Constructed of magnesium alloy, the Firefly 2 can handle a drop or two. It’s rugged and, more importantly, it gets you ripped.
- Bowl size: 0.15 grams
- Heat up time: 5 seconds
- Power/temp settings: 170-215° C
- Material compatibility: dry herb and concentrates
- Battery: 1-2 hours (replaceable)
- Build quality: magnesium alloy
- Type of heat: convection
- Vapor path: glass
- Ease of cleaning: moderately easy
The Firefly 2 produces less odor than your average vaporizer. It doesn’t ever get too hot because of its self-cooling technology. The battery is swappable, the device is firmware upgradeable, and it also features six different heat settings.
DaVinci IQ2
The IQ2 is a compact and precise dry herb vape with an airtight ceramic zirconia air path. It utilizes Smart Path Technology, which automatically sets the best temperature for your session. It offers a few improvements over the IQ like adjustable airflow.
- Bowl size: 0.5 grams (dosage pod holds 0.2 g)
- Heat up time: Less than a minute
- Power/temp settings: 120-220° C
- Material compatibility: dry herb and concentrates
- Battery: 18650 (replaceable)
- Build quality: brushed aluminum
- Type of heat: conduction
- Vapor path: ceramic zirconia
- Ease of cleaning: moderately easy
The IQ2 also has Bluetooth integration, so you can monitor details about your usage with the dose tracking feature. The device heats up very quickly and is powered by a rechargeable 18650. It's simple to use and now features 51 LEDs instead of the original 36.
Parts of a portable vaporizer
Pocket vaporizers are constructed from a few key parts: the chamber, a heating element, a battery, and a mouthpiece.
The chamber is where you pack your ground herb before powering up. The heating element (usually metallic or ceramic) is activated by the battery and heats your weed in order to create vapor. When you fire up your portable vaporizer, your weed will be heated using convection or conduction (or a combination of the two.)
Unlike many tabletop vaporizers, portable models don’t need to be plugged into a wall outlet or USB port as you vape. These are battery-operated devices that can be recharged and used freely, whether or not they’re connected to a power source. Most use either 18350 or 18650 batteries.
The materials used to make a mouthpiece vary. Glass mouthpieces are the best bet if you want to maximize flavor, though these are the most prone to breaking. Look for a silicone or metal mouthpiece if you’re an active person.
Different types of portable vaporizers
Portable conduction vaporizers
Conduction is the most common heating method used by portable vaporizers. Through conduction, it’s easy to keep the device compact and portable.
Think of a conduction vaporizer like a stovetop or frying pan. To cook the weed, your bud needs to come into direct contact with a heated surface.
The inside of a conduction vaporizer’s chamber is made of ceramic or stainless steel. When you fire up the device, the heating element warms the steel or ceramic at high temperatures. This heat is transferred through the chamber’s surface, cooking whatever bud it comes into contact with.
You’ll need to stir a conduction vaporizer throughout your vaping session. Because the dry herb needs to come into direct contact with the chamber, you run the risk of uneven heat distribution.
Pick up a conduction vaporizer if vapor production is your priority. They’re preferable if you enjoy strong hits and a quick high. Conduction portable vaporizers also require less battery power to operate.
Portable convection vaporizers
In a portable convection vaporizer, dry herb doesn’t come into direct contact with the heating element. These devices used to have more bulk, since they require an additional component to cook your bud, but they have become more compact recently.
Portable convection vaporizers are less common than conduction models. The price tag is often higher, as well.
Rather than a stovetop, convection vaporizers work like an oven. Hot air is introduced into the chamber to cook dry herb and create vapor. Depending on the device, it will use either an internal fan or just heat the air from your draw.
Compared to conduction vaporizers, convection devices tend to produce more flavor detail.
And one of the top benefits of convection vaporizers? They’re more convenient to use. You don’t need to stir your herb to ensure an even distribution of heat. Instead, the heated air is blown throughout your device’s entire chamber.
Portable hybrid vaporizers
There’s some confusion over the word “hybrid,” at least in the context of vaporizers. A hybrid device isn’t one that cooks waxy concentrates and weed oils, on top of dry herb. Hybrid refers to the heating method that’s used—or, in this case, the combination of methods.
Hybrid portable vaporizers use a mixture of conduction and convection. This is more common in expensive, high-end devices. If you see a dirt cheap vaporizer labeled as "hybrid." chances are they are being "creative" with the spec sheet.
Desktop vaporizers vs. portable vaporizers
To decide between desktop and portable vaporizers, consider your lifestyle and vaping habits. Neither is superior in all cases—it’s all personal preference.
If you’re dead set on a convection vaporizer, you may prefer desktop models. This isn’t a hard and fast rule, however; portable convection vaporizers are out there, even if they’re less common than conduction devices.
How to use a portable vaporizer
Since portable dry herb vaporizers are designed for convenience, they’re relatively simple to use.
How to clean a portable vaporizer
Any device with a refillable chamber needs to be cleaned regularly. You can clean most of your device’s components with isopropyl alcohol.
Over time, you’ll notice a sticky buildup forming inside the vaporizer’s airway. This is a byproduct of warm vapor coming into contact with cooler surfaces. The longer you go without cleaning your device, the more residue will build up—putting your device at a high risk of clogging. You’ll also notice a decrease in vapor quality.
Give your portable cannabis vaporizer a quick scrub after every session. Deep cleans are equally important, but you’ll only need to perform those after a few uses.
You can stop after this step for quick post-session cleanings. If you want to deep clean your vaporizer, here are the next steps to follow:
Portable vaporizers FAQs
What is the best temperature to use a portable vaporizer at?
Temperature control is one of the biggest advantages of vaporizers over smoking. It’s easier to customize most aspects of your experience, including flavor, potency, and vapor output.
| Temperature setting | Effects | Who should vape at this temperature? |
| 325-350° F (163-177° C) | Mild high; reduced coughing and side effects | Wake-and-bakers; flavor and aroma seekers |
| 350-400° F (177-204° C) | Moderate high | Everyday vapers; people looking for moderate flavor and effects |
| 400-430° F (204-221° C) | Intense high; increased risk of coughing and side effects | Experienced vapers; best for nighttime sessions |
Delta 9 THC has a boiling point of 315° F (157° C). In order to feel the effects of marijuana, your portable vaporizer should be set to 325° F (163° C) or above. Other cannabinoids have higher boiling points. For instance, CBD-dominant hemp bud should be vaporized at slightly higher temperatures.
Vaping at lower temperatures—325-350° F (163-177° C)—has its benefits. You can expect the cleanest, most authentic flavor. This temperature range is ideal if you’re looking to keep terpenes intact. Give it a try if you aren’t seeking potency; the psychoactive effects of THC will be milder at low temperatures. Low temp hits are smoother and the least likely to cause coughing or side effects.
For most weed vapers, 350-400° F (177-204° C) is the optimal range. This is the middle ground between lower and higher temperatures; you can enjoy the potency of THC, sans overbearing effects. You’re also less likely to encounter negative side effects (such as paranoia) than if you set your pocket vaporizer to a high temperature. Some terpenes will be overcooked, so there will be a slight loss in flavor.
If a quick, powerful high is your top priority, set your dry herb vaporizer to 400-430° F (204-221° C). This range isn’t for beginners; expect a very potent hit of THC. Terpenes will be vaporized quickly, so you’ll notice a big decline in flavor at this point.
Where can I buy a portable vaporizer?
You can find portable vaporizers from a number of popular vaping brands.
One of the most prolific is Storz & Bickel, creators of the Mighty+ and Crafty+. Those familiar with desktop vaporizers have probably heard of the Volcano Hybrid and Volcano Classic, which are produced by the same manufacturer. All of these devices can be purchased through online shops. Alternatively, sometimes you can buy portable vaporizers directly through a brand’s website.
If you’re familiar with portable vaporizers and know what you want, buying online is a good method. Go this route if you’re comfortable researching independently and know the specs you’re seeking.
Purchase a dry herb vaporizer in person if you don’t know where to start. Begin by researching smoke and vape shops in your area to see which ones have vaporizers in stock.
You can call or head over to the shop and speak to an associate. That way, a knowledgeable party can guide you through the process. They’ll ask questions about your vaping needs and priorities to determine the best device for you.
How much do portable vaporizers cost?
Like their desktop counterparts, there’s a significant range in the cost of portable vaporizers.
At their absolute cheapest, you can find select models between $50 and $100. These will usually offer fewer features and customization opportunities.
The bulk of portable vaporizers fall into the $100 to $300 range. This includes the Pax 3, which sits at the lower end. If you’re looking to invest but don’t want to splurge on a high-end device, it isn’t hard to find products.
Some luxury dry herb vaporizers will cost over $300, including the Mighty+ by Storz & Bickel. Expensive models are more likely to include features like precise temperature control and convection heating.
What is the best portable vaporizer under $100?
It can be a challenge to find a good portable vaporizer under $100. Even the more affordable models sit between $100 to $150, more often than not.
Fortunately, we found a high-quality portable vaporizer for less than $100: the Kandypens K-Vape Pro, which comes in at just $99.97. This is a hybrid (conduction and convection) device with four temperature settings. It features a half-gram ceramic chamber.
The K-Vape Pro isn’t as customizable as pricier options, but it creates rich vapor with a lightweight, pocket-sized body. It’s simple to learn and a fantastic product for beginners.
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