Glass vs. Silicone Bongs: Pros and Cons. Is Stainless Steel Better?

Feb 28, 2023

As one of the most classic smoking tools, bongs for smoking can be found in all shapes and sizes.

But the way your bong looks is about more than just aesthetics. Depending on what they’re made of, different bongs can deliver a unique smoking experience. The two most common materials — glass and silicone — have different durability, flavor, and percolation.

While the bong comparison debate usually focuses on glass bongs vs. silicone bongs, there are other materials to give them a run for their money. In particular, aluminum bongs have emerged as an affordable, lightweight competitor in recent years.

If you’re in the market for a new bong, it can help to understand the differences between these three materials and what each has to offer. Let’s take a look at the matchup between glass bongs and silicone bongs, as well as how they compare to aluminum bongs, to help you figure out which bong is best for you.

Glass Bongs

There’s no question that glass bongs have reigned supreme in the cannabis smoking world for a long time. They’re best known for the way they preserve the taste and purity of cannabis, but they’re also valued for their high-quality feel and luxurious look.

Let's take a closer look at this popular choice for bongs.

Pros of glass bongs

With a luxurious feel, an artistic look, and a pure flavor, it’s easy to see why many weed connoisseurs turn to glass. Here are some of the benefits of glass bongs.

1. Better taste and smoother hits

Compared to its competitors, there’s no denying that glass bongs deliver a top-quality smoking experience. They can produce some of the purest flavors. Thanks to the non-porous material, glass bongs can also provide a smoother smoke compared to other bongs.

2. Durability and longevity

Glass bongs are known for their luxurious look and feel. But the high-quality build is about more than just looks — glass is also a durable material. The best quality glass bongs are made from a thick borosilicate glass, allowing them to last much longer than cheaper bongs.

3. Luxurious and elegant appearance

When it comes to glass bongs, aesthetics is a huge factor. Some of the most beautiful bongs on the market are made of glass. This material can be molded into all kinds of shapes to make unique and colorful designs that look stunning on any smoker's shelf.

Cons of glass bongs

In the battle of glass bongs vs. silicone bongs, it’s also important to consider the drawbacks. From price to breakability, here are some of the cons of a glass bong.

1. Fragility and risk of breaking

While glass has a heavier, more luxurious feel, this comes at a cost. Even the best quality glass bongs — made from ultra-thick and high-quality glass — are prone to breakage. Whether it slips from your hands or it tips over onto a hard surface, accidents can happen. This fragility can also make glass bongs especially challenging to travel with.

2. High price point

While they have the prestige factor, glass bongs aren’t known for their affordability. The best glass bongs can run upwards of several hundred dollars. And while there are cheaper glass bongs on the market, they might not deliver the same pure, smooth smoking experience or long-lasting durability you would get from a better quality bong.

Silicone Bongs

While it isn’t as dominant as glass just yet, silicone has emerged as a popular bong material. Versatile, flexible, and essentially unbreakable, they can make a great alternative to glass.

Let’s take a closer look at why so many smokers go for silicone.

Pros of silicone bongs

With its soft, pliable feel and heat resistance, silicone is ideal for making bongs. But what makes this material so special? Here are the benefits of silicone bongs.

1. Affordable price point

One of the main advantages of silicone is its price point. Even the best silicone bongs tend to be much cheaper than glass. That means you can get a great quality bong without breaking the bank.

2. Durability and resistance to breaking

While they’re affordable, silicone bongs aren’t cheap in quality. In fact, they’re nearly indestructible. The surface is similar to rubber — soft, pliable, and flexible. This makes them lightweight and durable. They can handle just about anything, whether you knock it over at a party or drop it out of a second-story window. You can even throw them in the washing machine for cleaning.

This also makes silicone bongs great for travel. They won’t break even if they get tossed around, and they can also be squeezed into your luggage or backpack.

Cons of silicone bongs

Silicone may be more affordable and flexible, but it has some downsides in the silicone bong vs. glass bong debate. Here are the cons of silicone bongs.

1. Impaired taste and harsher hits

While it doesn’t have the plastic taste that comes with plastic bongs, the silicone material can still affect the taste. Unlike glass, which is non-porous, silicone loses some flavor as smoke travels through your bong. It also doesn’t produce the same smooth hit that glass does.

2. Susceptibility to scratches and discoloration

One of the main drawbacks of silicone is its appearance. It doesn’t have the same sleek, aesthetic appeal as glass. Silicone bongs are also more vulnerable to scratches and discoloration the longer you use them. Even if they last for a long time, they may not look or feel the same years later.

3. Challenging to clean

With glass, you get a clear or semi-clear surface that makes it easy to see exactly when your bong needs to be cleaned. With silicone, you don't get that same transparency. This can lead to buildup over time that affects the taste of your hits.

Stainless Steel Bongs

If you’re bored or tired of the same old glass or silicon options, why not try a stainless steel bong? This new alternative is quickly gaining popularity and for good reason. Let's take a closer look at the benefits of a stainless steel bong.

Pros of stainless steel bongs:

Durability Stainless steel is known for its durability, making it a great option for a long-lasting bong. It can withstand high temperatures and is resistant to corrosion and rust, ensuring your bong will look and function like new for years to come.
Easy to clean Stainless steel bongs are easy to clean and maintain, making them a convenient option for smokers. You can quickly wipe them down with alcohol or other cleaning agents to ensure they stay hygienic and ready to use.
Improved Taste Stainless steel doesn't affect the taste of your herbs or concentrates, providing a cleaner and purer flavor. Plus, it won't leave any unwanted residue or aftertaste.

Compared to aluminum bongs, stainless steel bongs are much more heavy-duty and resistant to wear and tear. Plus, they look sleek and modern, making them a great addition to any smoker's collection.

If you’re looking to try something new and upgrade your smoking experience try a stainless steel bong! While they may be a bit pricier than aluminum or silicone options, their durability and quality make them worth the investment. Trust us, your taste buds (and lungs) will thank you.

Cons of stainless steel bongs

Cost: Compared to some other materials like aluminum or silicone, stainless steel bongs can be more expensive. While they may be worth the investment for their durability and quality, this may not be feasible for everyone's budget.
Weight: Stainless steel is a heavy material, which means that stainless steel bongs may be heavier and less portable than some other materials like silicone or aluminum. However, this may not be a big issue for those who primarily smoke at home or don't mind carrying a slightly heavier bong for their durability and quality, this may not be feasible for everyone's budget.

The Bottom Line

Glass, silicone, or stainless steel — which bong is best? For many smokers, cost is the deciding factor. But just remember that expensive bongs aren’t always the best. But some of the cheaper bongs can be poorly made, which may cost you more in the long run.

So with budget aside, how do you choose the right material? At the end of the day, it comes down to you. What do you value most in your bong? From style to durability, there are bongs to satisfy every smoker.

If you love the high-quality and prestigious feel of heavier material — or want a beautiful piece to add to your collection — glass may be the perfect choice. Just be prepared to get a carrying case to keep it safe on the go.

If flexibility and durability are at the top of your list, silicone can be a great choice. It may not provide the same hit or flavor as glass though, and it definitely won’t have the same look of luxury.

If you want something sleek, portable, and durable, stainless steel may be your best bet. Just be sure to buy high-quality, treated aluminum smoking tools from a safe source.

Looking for another efficient way to get your THC fix? Look no further than the DART one hitter. This discreet, affordable, and long-lasting device brings a powerful upgrade to the world of smoking pipes.

Learn More from the Dart Co!

Carl Rogers

Older Post

Newer Post

Glass vs. Silicone Bongs: Pros and Cons. Is Stainless Steel Better?