In modern day dabbing, one of your most essential tools needed to partake in a dab, is a torch. Now, I know what you are thinking, butane or propane, and which is the better choice for dabbing? In this article we are going to discuss the pros and cons of Butane and Propane and figure out which one comes out on top!
What Is A Butane Torch?
A butane torch is simply just a regular torch, lighter, or campfire torch that burns using butane as fuel. These torches are typically refillable or easily changed out.
Butane Torches' Pros
- Butane does not get as hot.
- It burns with less chemical pollutants over propane and your quartz stays cleaner.
- There is not a harsh smell and it does not alter the flavor of your concentrates.
Butane Torch’s Cons
- Butane takes longer to heat up.
- Butane can still leave a residue behind.
What Is A Propane Torch?
A propane torch is just a torch that burns using propane as fuel. These torches are typically refillable or easily changed out. You usually can find these in a hardware store and in the camping section.
Pros Of Propane Torch
- Propane burns hotter over a regular torch.
- Propane also heats up your quartz more rapidly than butane would.
Cons Of Propane Torch
- Propane can heat your bangers at such high temperatures that it begins to actually weaken the quartz.
- Propane emits more chemicals as it burns in comparison to butane.
- The smell of propane is just not good!
Butane Torch VS Propane Torch
As many different pros and cons as there are when it comes to using butane or propane, these are some things you should know while we are at it.
- Propane is more costly than butane and burns a lot hotter at a faster rate. This isn't necessarily good for your quartz banger or your lungs.
- Butane is cheaper and burns low and slow. So even though it may take longer to heat up, you aren't doing excessive damage on your quartz, or altering the flavor of your dabs.
| Butane | Propane |
| Less expensive | More costly |
| Burns slow and low | Burns hot and fast |
General Similarities Of Butane Torch & Propane Torch?
So like butane and propane have differences, they also have some general similarities.
- The flame on a butane torch is relatively the same as a propane torch. Same color, almost same smell.
- Both propane and butane can be refilled or exchanged.
- The torch in general is an essential part of dabbing.
- Both propane and butane can leave a sooty residue.
| Butane | Propane |
| Flame is identical to propane but leaves a residue behind. | Flame is identical to butane and leaves a residue behind. |
| Refillable and essential for dabbing | Refillable and essential to dabbing. |
What Should You Get For Dabbing?
After reading this article, the most obvious choice for what you should choose, is butane. Butane is the clear winner with more pros than cons and is safe and effective for dabbers all over. Propane is not recommended due to how harsh it can be on your quarts, lungs, and concentrates.
