Consumers sometimes feel overwhelmed by the number of options for cannabis consumption methods. There is no “one-size-fits-all” approach. How you prefer to consume depends on your lifestyle, goals, and experience level.
There are a few main consumption types you’ll find at all dispensaries in Michigan: flower, vapes, edibles, concentrates, and topicals. This blog explores each consumption method, but you can always visit RiZE to get tailored help with your cannabis experience.
Why Your Consumption Method Matters
How you consume cannabis affects the experience in a few ways:
- Speed of onset
- Length of effects (duration of experience)
- Intensity of experience
- Convenience
Many people enjoy a few product types and tailor their consumption based on the time of day, goals, and the need for discretion. With a little knowledge and product research, you’ll identify the consumption method (or methods) that you’re most comfortable with.
Quick Comparison of Cannabis Consumption Methods
| Flower | Pre-Rolls | Edibles | Vapes | Concentrates | Topicals | |
| Onset time | Fast | Fast | Slow | Fast | Fast | Varies |
| Duration | Short | Short | Long | Short | Medium to long, depending on dose | Depends on absorption |
| Discretion | Not discreet | Not discreet | Very | Very (smokeless) | Not discreet | Very |
| Convenience | Less convenient | Very | Very | Very | Somewhat | Somewhat |
Flower – The Classic Cannabis Method
If you want the old-school cannabis experience with a wide variety of strain options to help you customize your experience, cannabis flower is the way to go.
What It Is
- Dried cannabis buds
How It Works
- Smoked via pipe, bong, or joint
Onset & Duration
- Fast onset (within minutes)
- Short to moderate duration (2 – 3 hours)
Best For
- Traditional consumers
- Those who want control over dosing
- People who want a wide variety of options
- Consumers who like to buy product in bulk
Pre-Rolls – Convenience Without Prep
What They Are
- Ready-to-use joints
Why Choose Pre-Rolls
- Ready to consume – no grinding or rolling required
- Easy for beginners
Best For
- Consumers who like to smoke but don’t like to roll
- On-the-go use
- Social settings and sharing with friends
Shop cannabis prerolls at RiZE
Vapes – Discreet & Fast-Acting
What They Are
- Oil cartridges or disposable devices
How They Work
- Vaporized cannabis oil (no combustion)
Onset & Duration
- Fast onset (within minutes)
- Moderate duration (3 – 4 hours, depending on dosage)
Best For
- Discreet use (smokeless)
- Convenient
- Portable
Find vapes at RiZE dispensaries
Edibles – Long-Lasting & Measured
What They Are
- Gummies, chocolates, beverages, etc.
How They Work
- Processed through digestion
Onset & Duration
- Slower onset (30–120 minutes)
- Long-lasting effects (6 – 8 hours)
Best For
- Smoke-free experience
- Evening or sleep
- Extended use and longer effects
- Consumers who want small doses
Important Note
- Start low and wait before taking more
Find edibles at RiZE dispensaries
Concentrates – Potent & Efficient
What They Are
- Wax, shatter, live resin, rosin
How They’re Used
- Dab rigs or vape devices
Onset & Duration
- Fast onset (within minutes)
- Often more potent
Best For
- Experienced consumers
- Those seeking higher potency
Explore concentrates at RiZE dispensaries
Topicals – Targeted & Non-Intoxicating Options
What They Are
- Creams, balms, lotions
How They Work
- Applied to skin
- Locally absorbed
- Cannabinoid blends, with CBD, CBN, and other options
Best For
- Localized use
- Consumers who prefer not to inhale or ingest
- Specific symptom relief
Find topical cannabis products at RiZE
How to Choose the Best Cannabis Method for Your Lifestyle
There are many consumption options for cannabis, and which works best for you is personal. But if you’re feeling overwhelmed and don’t know where to start, consider this:
- For beginners: pre-rolls, low-dose edibles
- For convenience: vapes, pre-rolls
- For longer effects: edibles
- For full experience: flower
- For discretion: vapes, edibles
It may take some experimentation to find the product types and dosage that work for you. Keeping a cannabis journal can be helpful to identify patterns of what you like and don’t like.
What’s Available at RiZE Dispensary
RiZE dispensaries serve Michigan’s cannabis consumers with three convenient locations in the Upper Peninsula. At each location, you’ll find a wide selection of high-quality cannabis products, with plenty of options for strains, dosages, and cannabinoid blends.
Got questions? RiZE has online resources, and our knowledgeable budtenders are here to help guide you through the selection process and find what works well for you.
Key Takeaways
- Different cannabis methods offer different experiences
- Onset time and duration vary by format
- Lifestyle and preferences should guide your choice
- Beginners should start low and explore gradually
- RiZE offers options for every type of consumer
FAQ
- What is the best cannabis consumption method for beginners?
It depends. Many beginners start with pre-rolls or low-dose edibles due to ease of use and controlled dosing. - What’s the difference between flower vs edibles vs vapes?
Flower and vapes act quickly, while edibles take longer but last longer. - Are vapes stronger than flower?
Yes. Vapes can be more concentrated, so dosing carefully is important. - How long do edibles last?
Effects can last several hours, depending on dose and individual factors. - Can I find all these products at RiZE Dispensary?
Yes, RiZE offers a wide range of cannabis products across three Michigan locations.
Find Your Perfect Cannabis Experience at RiZE
Whether you prefer flower, vapes, edibles, or concentrates, RiZE Dispensary has the right option for your lifestyle. Visit one of our Michigan locations or browse our online menu to explore a wide selection of high-quality cannabis products. Our knowledgeable team is here to help you choose with confidence.
DISCLAIMER: The contents of this blog are intended for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.