If you're diving into dry herb vaping or looking to upgrade, the brand you choose matters more than you'd think. Some companies chase flavor, others focus on medical-grade engineering, and a few are built entirely around what customers want to see. After years of testing and daily use, I've narrowed it down to five brands that consistently deliver.
The dry herb vaporizer market is booming, with projections showing it'll reach over $6 billion by 2030. That growth means more options, but also more noise to cut through.
Let's break down the brands that actually get it right, what makes them unique, and who should buy from each.
Table of contents
- Why Brand Matters When Buying a Vaporizer
- Quick Comparison: Which Brand?
- Arizer: Flavor First with All-Glass Vapor Paths
- Storz & Bickel: Medical Grade Certification
- XMAX: Affordable Performance
- PAX: Discreet Design, Stylish Portability
- DynaVap: Battery-Free Innovation
- Planet of the Vapes Lobo: Community-Driven Affordability
- How to Choose Your Brand
- Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions
Why Brand Matters When Buying a Vaporizer
Not all vaporizer brands are created equal. Some prioritize innovation and customer feedback, while others cut corners to hit a price point. When you're investing in a dry herb vaporizer, you want a company that stands behind its products with solid warranties, responsive customer support, and a track record of quality.
I've tested dozens of vapes over the years, from budget devices to premium desktop units. The best dry herb vaporizer brands share a few things in common: they use quality materials, they're transparent about their manufacturing, and they listen to user feedback.
Whether you're chasing the purest flavor, need medical-grade reliability, or want something pocketable for stealth sessions, there's a reliable brand that fits your style.
Quick Comparison: Which Brand?
| Feature | Arizer | Storz & Bickel | Planet of the Vapes (POTV) | XMAX | PAX | DynaVap |
| Known For | Flavor, all-glass vapor path | Medical grade, precision | Affordability, customer feedback | Performance on a budget | Discreet design, portability | Battery-free, thermal extraction |
| Price Range | $89–$300 | $249–$600+ | $99–$160 | $49–$109 | $150–$250 | $35–$229 |
| Heating Style | Hybrid | Hybrid | Variety | Variety | Conduction | Hybrid |
| Best For | Flavor chasers, session sippers | Medical users, Top-shelf users | Budget-conscious enthusiasts | Value chasers | Stealth, on-the-go users | Battery-free sessions |
| Warranty | 3 years | 2–3 years | 2 years | 1 year | 2-4 years | Varies (lifetime on some) |
Arizer: Flavor First with All-Glass Vapor Paths
If you're chasing pure, unadulterated flavor, Arizer should be at the top of your list. This Canadian company has built its reputation on reliable sessions that deliver clean taste and delicate vapor. They've been around for over a decade, and it shows.
Every Arizer device, from the Solo III to the Air MAX, uses borosilicate glass aroma tubes that keep your vapor isolated from any metal or plastic, and hybrid heating. The result? Terpene-rich hits that finish with satisfying clouds.
What Makes Arizer Special
Arizer has been in the game for over a decade. They are one of the few brands that have consistently delivered reliable vaporizers year after year without chasing gimmicks.
Their formula is simple, and it works. Quality materials and heating that prioritize flavor. Arizer vapor is known for being smooth, clean, and terpene-rich.
They also offer one of the most complete lineups in the industry. From compact portables like the ArGo, to budget-friendly options like the Air SE, to feature-packed models like the Solo 2 MAX and heavy hitters like the Solo 3 v2, there's something for nearly every type of user and budget. On the desktop side, the XQ2 remains one of the best-value bag-and-whip systems available.
Who Arizer Is For
Arizer vaporizers are for anyone who wants high-quality vapor that's consistent and reliable, no matter your budget. Whether you're chasing clouds, rich flavors, or a little bit of both, Arizer offers reputable products for at-home users, traveling vaporists, and everyone in between.
Who Arizer Isn't For
If you need something that's nearly indestructible, consider looking elsewhere. All of their vapes utilize a glass component. That's really about it.
Storz & Bickel: Medical Grade Certification
Storz & Bickel is the gold standard when it comes to reliability and medical-grade engineering. Their medical device certification sets them apart from every other brand on this list.
The Volcano Medic 2 is approved as a medical device in Canada and other markets (though not the U.S.). It's manufactured to ISO 13485 standards and certified under EN 60601, the same standard used for hospital equipment.
We don't carry the medically certified versions, but we do offer the retail models that are engineered and manufactured with similarly rigorous standards and quality controls.
What Makes Storz & Bickel Special
Storz & Bickel built their reputation on durability and elite engineering.
The Volcano Classic is one of the longest-running vaporizers in the industry, and it is still going strong in homes around the world decades later. That kind of longevity is rare. People buy a Volcano once and use it for years.
The Mighty+ is often called the king of portable vaporizers. It delivers dense, consistent vapor with almost no learning curve. Turn it on, wait a minute, and it just works. Reliable, powerful, repeatable.
Then there's the Venty, their flagship portable. It offers some of the most open airflow you will find in any handheld vape. The draw feels effortless, almost unrestricted, while still delivering thick, controlled vapor.
Across the lineup, the common thread is top-tier engineering. Precise temperature control, medical-grade build quality, and devices that feel like they were designed to last a lifetime.
Who Storz & Bickel Is For
You want the best of the best and don't mind paying for it. You prioritize reliability and vapor quality over portability. Medical users, heavy hitters, and anyone who wants a vape that'll last a decade should seriously consider S&B.
If you're a daily user who needs consistent, powerful sessions, the Mighty+ is a no-brainer. For home use, the Volcano is legendary for a reason.
Who Storz & Bickel Isn't For
Budget-conscious buyers will feel the sticker shock. S&B devices aren't cheap, and while the quality justifies the price, there are more affordable options that still deliver solid performance.
👉 Shop Storz & Bickel Vaporizers
XMAX: Affordable Performance
XMAX has built a reputation around one simple idea: strong performance at great prices. These are feature-packed vaporizers that compete well above their weight class.
We liked XMAX so much that we partnered with them on exclusive versions of the V3 Pro and Starry V4, complete with upgraded batteries and added accessories. That says a lot. They consistently deliver reliable heaters, fast heat-up times, removable batteries, and USB-C charging without pushing into premium price territory.
From the convection-powered V3 Pro with on-demand mode and swappable 18650 batteries, to the pocket-friendly Starry V4 with adjustable airflow, to ultra-affordable standouts like the Oont Pro and V3 Nano, XMAX covers a wide range of users and budgets.
What Makes XMAX Special
XMAX excels at giving you more than you expect for the price. Replaceable batteries, precise temperature control, fast heat-ups, and solid vapor production show up even in some of their most affordable models.
They also hit multiple heating styles. The V3 Pro leans into convection for stronger, more efficient extraction. The Starry V4 uses conduction for thick, punchy sessions. The V3 Nano and Oont Pro blend both in a tiny, ultra-simple format.
Add durable builds and straightforward controls, and you get vapes that are easy to recommend to beginners and budget-conscious shoppers alike.
Who XMAX Is For
XMAX is for value hunters who still want strong performance. Beginners, light to medium users, and anyone who wants features like swappable batteries and USB-C charging without spending $200 plus.
If you want strong sessions at $50 to $109, XMAX lives in that sweet spot.
Who XMAX Isn’t For
If you are chasing luxury materials, medical certifications, or elite-tier refinement, XMAX is not trying to compete there.
PAX: Discreet Design, Stylish Portability
PAX has carved out a unique space in the vaporizer world by focusing on portable, stylish designs. If stealth and style are your top priorities, PAX vaporizers are hard to beat.
The PAX Flow and PAX Mini look more like high-end tech gadgets than vapes. Sleek, minimalist, and available in multiple colors, they're the kind of device you can pull out in public without raising eyebrows.
What Makes PAX Special
PAX is often touted as the Apple of dry herb vaporizers. The design of their vaporizers is sleek, minimalist, and instantly recognizable.
They focus on simplicity and portability. Drop it in your pocket, click a single button, and you are off. The vapor is consistent, the experience is polished, and the learning curve is almost nonexistent.
These ultra-pocketable vaporizers remain popular options for minimalist setups and travel enthusiasts. At less than 100g and just over 3.5 inches tall, the PAX Mini is a standout for its incredibly low-profile design and simple one-button controls.
Recently, PAX expanded a little beyond the minimalist crowd. The PAX Flow stepped into harder-hitting territory. It keeps the signature sleek design but adds hybrid heating, dramatically increased airflow, and a high-temp Bubbler Mode for dense, water-cooled clouds. It's still pocket-friendly, just built to satisfy heavier users who want more punch from a PAX.
From stylish sippers to stronger session seekers, PAX caters to a wider range of vaporists without losing its design-first identity.
Who PAX Is For
PAX is for minimalist, style-conscious users who want a sleek, pocketable vape that looks good and keeps things simple. If you prefer one-button controls, preset temperatures, and straightforward sessions with almost no learning curve, PAX is built for you.
Who PAX Isn't For
If you're a heavy user who demands the thickest clouds possible, PAX's conduction heating won't hit as hard as a Mighty+ or Lobo. Flavor chasers will also find the vapor quality good, but not exceptional, compared to those with hybrid or convection heaters.
DynaVap: Battery-Free Innovation
DynaVap flips the script entirely with their battery-free vaporizers. No charging, no power button, no electronics. Just thermal extraction powered by a torch or induction heater.
You load the tip with herb, heat it with a torch until it clicks, then inhale. When it clicks again, you're done. Reheat and repeat.
What Makes DynaVap Special
DynaVap is all about simplicity and control. No batteries, no screens, no charging cables. Just a small, precision-built vaporizer and a torch.
The signature click cap tells you when it is ready, which makes the whole process feel intentional and hands-on. Once you get the hang of it, the efficiency is quite impressive. Tiny amounts of herb go a long way, flavor is bold, and the effects come on fast.
From the budget-friendly B to the stainless steel M7 and M7 XL, up to the heavy-hitting HyperDyn, there is a DynaVap for just about everyone. They are durable, compact, and built to last. It is a different kind of vaping experience, and that is exactly the point.
Who DynaVap Is For
DynaVap is for off-grid users and those who enjoy the ritual of vaping. You don't mind a learning curve, and you appreciate devices that are built to last forever. Budget buyers should also take a serious look. The DynaVap G3 is a great little performer and only costs $35!
Who DynaVap Isn't For
If you want push-button simplicity, DynaVap requires more effort. There's a technique to learn, and using a torch isn't ideal for stealth situations. Beginners might find the manual heating intimidating at first.
That said, once you lock in the technique, it's incredibly rewarding.
Planet of the Vapes (POTV): Community-Driven Affordability
Planet of the Vapes is built around a simple but powerful idea: great vaporizers shouldn’t be locked behind premium price tags. As a retailer-led brand with deep roots in the vaping community, POTV designs and curates products by listening first, pulling feedback from real users, long-term reviews, and hands-on.
What Makes POTV Special
Planet of the Vapes started small and has grown into a multi-national retailer with one core mission: to help people switch to vaping the right way.
What sets POTV apart is experience and curation. Our team is made up of seasoned vaporists who test everything, but only sell vaporizers we would personally use. You will not find hundreds of random devices here. Every vape on the site earns its spot.
Our signature vaporizer, the POTV Lobo, was built from years of hands-on experience, customer feedback, and a clear goal: deliver top-tier vapor without the premium price tag. It delivers dense, flavorful vapor that competes with vapes well above its price range, while staying simple enough for beginners to enjoy right out of the box.
Education and honesty matter just as much as sales. Reviews focus on real pros and cons so you can choose what fits you best. On top of that, POTV backs every purchase with a 14-day Satisfaction Guarantee, fast shipping, and hands-on customer support from real experts who actually vape.
Who POTV Is For
POTV is for people who want top-tier sessions without paying top-shelf prices. If you want vapor that competes with premium brands at nearly half the cost, you are in the right place. And with a thriving ecosystem of glass accessories and attachments, you can customize your setup exactly how you like it.
Who POTV Isn't For
If you’re chasing ultra-luxury materials or medical-grade certifications with extended warranties, other brands may better fit that niche. POTV isn’t about extremes. It’s about balance, value, and building products people want to see.
How to Choose Your Brand
Choosing the right vaporizer brand comes down to what you prioritize most. Here's a quick framework to help you decide:
Choose Arizer if:
- Flavor is your #1 priority
- You want an all-glass vapor path for the purest taste
- You want some of the best battery life on the market
Choose Storz & Bickel if:
- You want medical-grade certification and reliability
- You're a heavy user who needs a workhorse device
- Budget isn't a concern. You want the best
Choose XMAX if:
- You want strong performance at an entry-level price
- You value great features
- You want a feature-packed vape without paying premium prices
Choose PAX if:
- Discretion and portability are essential
- You want a stylish, minimalist design
- You're a beginner looking for simplicity
Choose DynaVap if:
- You want a battery-free device that'll last forever
- You're on a tight budget but refuse to compromise on quality
- You enjoy the ritual and technique of manual vaping
Choose POTV if:
- You want high performance without breaking the bank
- You value user-replaceable batteries and a strong ecosystem
- You want world-class customer support
The dry herb hardware market is growing fast, but these five brands have proven track records. They've earned their reputations through consistent quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction.
Conclusion
Each of these brands brings something unique to the table. Different strengths, different priorities, different session styles. There is no single “best” vaporizer brand for everyone. The best one is the one that fits you. Your habits. Your budget. Your taste preferences. Your lifestyle.
Figure out what matters most in your sessions, then choose the brand that aligns with that. Whether you're chasing flavor, power, affordability, stealth, or sustainability, one of these brands has exactly what you need. Take your time, consider what matters most in your sessions, and invest in quality.
👉 Shop All Dry Herb Vaporizers
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What's the difference between convection and conduction heating?
A: Convection heating uses hot air to vaporize your herb without direct contact. This results in brighter flavors and more efficient sessions. Conduction heating presses your herb directly against a hot surface for a more consistent session. Hybrid heating combines both methods for a balance of flavor and clouds.
Q: Are medical-grade vaporizers worth the extra cost?
A: That's up to you. If you value certifications and rigorous testing, medical-grade vapes like those from Storz & Bickel are certainly worth the cost for peace of mind.
Q: Can I really go flameless with DynaVap?
A: Absolutely. While DynaVap devices are designed for torch heating, pairing them with an induction heater gives you consistent, flameless sessions. Induction heaters heat the cap evenly without any open flame, making them safer and more convenient for daily use.
Q: Which brand has the best warranty?
A: All of these brands offer at least two-year warranties, and in some cases, more when you register them with their respective manufacturer.
Q: What's the best vaporizer brand for beginners?
A: PAX is the most beginner-friendly with its simple one-button interface and discreet design. The POTV Lobo is also excellent for newcomers who want more features and value. Both offer straightforward operation without overwhelming new users with settings.





