There are different types of bongs today in the market to choose from. These bongs come in various shapes, materials, and sizes. And for a first-time cannabis smoker, this might feel overwhelming. How do you know which type of bong will fit your needs and smoking lifestyle?

Finding the perfect bong for you all comes down to several factors; your personal taste, the bong's material, price/cost, and functionality. This bong guide will shed some light on the various types of bongs available in the market today and also give you a few pointers for selecting the most suitable bong for you.

what are the different types of bongs

There are a variety of bong materials out there in the market today like metal, glass, and silicone. Below we talk about some of the most used materials and discuss their pros and cons.

Metal

These are bongs that are made from metal. Metal bongs are very not popular in the cannabis community. And this is mainly because their cons outweigh their pros. 

Complaints gotten from metal bong users include a foul change in cannabis taste, weed contamination, some difficulty experienced when cleaning the bong, and rust. However, the only advantage is that they are very durable.

Glass

Glass bongs are the most popular types of bongs in existence. These bongs have been around since the 70s and are still going strong. It comes in various designs that improve its functionality and allow it to accommodate a lot of accessories. These accessories include ice catches, percolators, and diffused down stems.

And contrary to popular belief, glass bongs are actually very durable. Some are also made out of unbreakable glass, which adds to their durability. Glass bongs are also not that expensive. You can find glass bongs of good quality for as low as $50-$100.

Silicone

Silicone bongs are a relatively new bong type that has risen to popularity. As the name suggests, these bongs are made from silicone, a strong material that makes them nearly unbreakable and durable. Also, they are easily foldable and can be cleaned easily. 

Silicone bongs come in handy when you cannot afford a very expensive bong. But the only problem with this bong material is its inability to accommodate other bong accessories readily. And this may be a concern for smokers who love to adopt new techniques with their bongs. 

Acrylic

Acrylic is produced from rigid plastic and comes in various shapes, forms and sizes. They are often regarded as the predecessors to silicone and plastic bongs. Acrylic bongs are very affordable, with prices as low as 15$ per bong. This bong material is also very light and can be easily carried around. 

Although it might seem like the perfect bong material, acrylic has its cons too. There have been several complaints about acrylic bongs breaking and shattering easily, despite being made from hard plastic. Also, compared to silicone and plastic bongs, acrylic bongs are less durable.

Ceramic 

Humans have used ceramic for a long time. So much so that archeologists have dug up various ceramic materials such as pots, art, and bongs that are centuries old. Ceramic would have been the first option for our ancestors because of its durability back then.  

And today, it is still being used. However, it has some downsides. One of which is that it's extremely heavy. Heavy bongs aren't handy and usually can't be carried around. Asides from this, these bongs are less durable than cheaper alternatives such as plastic. So it is really not advisable to get a ceramic bong as your go-to.

Different Types of Bong Designs

Different types of bongs can be made into various designs to make them look more attractive to a particular demographic or even improve their functionality. Some of these designs include:

Beaker Base

Beaker base bongs are shaped like cups. They have a wide base which provides more stability for designs. The base also stores more water and offers a smooth smoke.

Straight Tube

This is the most popular bong design. It is a straight or vertical tube made from borosilicate glass tubing. This bong is designed for efficiency and stability.

Percolators

Percolator bongs are designed to maximize the filtration and cooling effect from the water in your bong. So instead of all the smoke rushing straight into the water, it is diffused and slowly fed through the water.

Rounded Base

Rounded base bongs are designed with a round chamber and a flat base. These bongs hold more water than a beaker base bong, yield greater filtration, and give a smoother toke.

Multi-Chamber

This is a variation of the straight tube bong that comes with multiple layers. It is divided into two different chambers through a pipe or third area.

Recycler

Recycler bongs serve as good dab rigs that work well with wax oils. They are designed to provide a constant flow of water within the pipe's chambers.

Bubblers

This is probably the most unique bong on the list. It comes with a mouthpiece, a bowl, a stem, and a chamber that holds water for smoke to travel through. 

Zongs

Zongs are water pipes with zig-zag-shaped necks. This unique style creates a wider space for smoke to pass, giving you a much larger toke. 

Scientific

Scientific bongs are for the nerds who love smoking weed. Asides from being super stylish, they possess a removable percolator that promotes diffusion.

Which Bong is the Best?

When choosing the best bong, ensure that you consider its price, durability, and versatility, i.e., can it accommodate various accessories?

Here's another tip; the best bongs are usually made from grass, silicone, or acrylic. We recommend staying away from metal and ceramic bongs as they tend to break easily or not provide the best smoking experience.

Where to Get the Best Bongs? 

The best way to enjoy your smoking session is to make sure to use top-quality bongs. If you’re located in the Washington DC area, you can get these from the #1 Head Shop in DC: No Kids Allowed. We offer the best bongs in DC, and this is why we are the highest-rated smoke shop in DC.

Here is a review from some of our customers:

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"How many ways can I say this? This place is wonderful! The products are amazing! The staff like Howard and Montana are so helpful, professional, and knowledgeable! This place brings me so much happiness and joy. And they have discounts every week!! Do yourself a favor cheat yourself treat yourself!!"

Check us out at No Kids Allowed. We offer the best marijuana/weed gifts in Washington DC. Visit our online menu to see what free gifts we have in stock. Call us at (202) 897-5993 to place your order or visit us today at 637 Pennsylvania Ave SE Suite B Washington DC 20003. 

Conclusion on the Types of Bongs for Weed

In conclusion, the quest for the perfect bong involves navigating a diverse landscape of materials and designs, each with its unique advantages and drawbacks. From the durability and classic appeal of glass bongs to the modern convenience of silicone and the affordability of acrylic, the choices are as varied as the preferences of the users themselves. As you make your decision, consider factors such as price, functionality, and your own smoking lifestyle.

Whether you are a novice or an experienced cannabis enthusiast, understanding these nuances will help you select a bong that not only meets your needs but also enhances your smoking experience. For those in the Washington DC area, exploring options at top-rated shops like No Kids Allowed can provide you with access to high-quality products and expert advice, ensuring you find the best bong for your individual taste.