How Much Is a Bong in 2024?

One of the most popular accessories for marijuana consumption is bongs, used by smoking enthusiasts all around the world. Originally used to filter herbs for smoking, bongs have evolved into becoming a style statement, popularized by music festivals and stoner gatherings in recent years. 

You can find all kinds of bongs on the market today, from classic single-chamber ones made from glass to premium multi-chamber percolators. Depending on material, style, and size, the price of a bong will change.

If you are a first-time buyer, deciding on which bong to invest your money in can be intimidating. To help you out, this guide will walk you through the different types of bongs and their varying price points. 

What is a Bong?

In its essence, a bong is a filtration device used to generate smoke from powdered herbs. Typically used to smoke cannabis or tobacco, a bong is one of the most widely used smoking accessories for both recreational and medical users.

The way a bong works is simple. Water is first placed in the chambers, covering the slits and holes. The substance to be smoked is then placed in the bowl in its powdered form.  Once the substance starts to burn, smoke is generated and cooled, traveling up the bong and into the user’s waiting mouth. 

Factors Affecting Bong Cost

Material

One factor that affects bong prices greatly is the material it is made from. Naturally, the more expensive the material, the higher the cost of the bong. 

Glass

The most common and familiar material is glass. Glass bongs are the most generic type of bong, and you can typically find a simple one for under $50. However, glass comes in different qualities, and a stronger, more high-quality glass bong can set you back upwards of $300. 

Acrylic

Acrylic bongs are usually quite cheap, as acrylic is a less expensive material than glass. You can find a standard acrylic bong for around $20 easily. But you do get what you pay for, as acrylic is not very durable and does not filter as well as other materials.

Silicone 

Silicone bongs are a recent innovation that has gained popularity among smokers. Easy to clean, impossible to break, and cheap to buy, they are a good option for beginners who fear breaking a glass bong. One downside to silicone bongs is that they are usually small with only a single chamber. This affects the quality of smoke generated.

Beauty and Aesthetics

The factor that racks up a bong’s price the most is aesthetics. For many people, a bong is not just an accessory used to smoke herbs, but a collectible to be showed off. 

Smoking is often a group activity, and the most stylish bong will get the most praise and admiration. Expensive buyers are not buying into the functionality of the bong, those are a dime a dozen. What they are paying for are the artistic elements and unique designs the bong displays. An example of one such extravagant bong is The Throne, which sold for $1 million at a 2019 auction. 

Size and Complexity of Design

Bongs come in a variety of shapes and sizes. You can find mini bongs which are just a few inches tall to extra tall bongs that are over a foot in height. The taller the bong, the more material is required for its manufacture, resulting in a higher price.

Design complexity also affects bong price, with the most intricate and well-crafted bongs having the largest price tags. Factors such as multiple percolators, thick glass, and detail-oriented design will rake up the price.

Brand Prestige

Just like all luxury goods, bongs also have their name brands. These premium sellers list their bongs at astronomical prices, attracting collectors and fans alike. 

Although many sell their bongs at high prices because of a higher standard of quality, sometimes the cost is for no apparent reason other than brand prestige. Examples of high-end bong brands are Empire Glasswork and Roor.

How Much Does a Bong Cost?

Budget Bongs

If you are a beginner in the world of bongs, it is understandable to be hesitant before putting your money down. For those on a budget, look for acrylic and silicone options, as they are not as fragile as glass and are usually $20- $50. You can even find lower-quality glass bongs in the same price range. 

Mid-Range Bongs

Mid-range bongs are a little more expensive than budget bongs, typically priced in the range of $50-$100. You will find a wider variety of options in this range of bongs, such as multi-chamber bongs and percolators. The quality of materials and overall durability of these bongs is also better as compared to ones that cost less. 

Although mid-range bongs are a good option for the average smoker, the designs at this price point will usually be quite simple. If you are looking toward more creative and intricate models, then you will have to raise your budget.

Expensive and Luxury Bongs 

Typically, a bong is considered expensive when it costs upwards of $200 since the majority of options on the market fall under this amount. Expensive bongs feature added accessories, detailed glasswork, and masterful craftsmanship. Bongs released by a high-end brand or famous glass artist will also be more expensive. 

However, there is no upper limit to luxury bongs and prices can rise to astronomical heights. These bongs are not just smoking tools, but pieces of art sought after by collectors. They are known as luxury bongs and are the most complex in their designs and functionalities. An example is the $110,000 Hayabusa, which is modeled after the satellite of the same name. 

How Much Should You Spend on a Bong?

Depending on your experience, budget, and personality, your ideal bong choice will be different. For a beginner, choosing a bong that is easy to handle at a lower price is the better option, as you are just starting out. Once you gain more experience, you can start experimenting with different designs, materials, and makes. 

However, personality also plays a factor. For some people, functionality, and ease of use are not priorities, but look and feel are. For these people, even if they are not using the bong, they will keep it as an art piece on display so spending more on complex bongs makes sense. 

FAQs 

How much does a bong usually cost?

Bongs can cost anywhere between $15 to $200 on average, with prices depending on material, aesthetics, and brand. The better the quality of make, the higher the cost. Similarly, the most creatively designed bongs will set you back more money.

Why are luxury bongs so expensive?

Luxury high-end bongs are one-of-a-kind pieces with complex construction and design elements. At some point, luxury bongs stop being smoke filtration devices and transition to become collectible art pieces, and their prices reflect that. 

How much does it cost to clean a bong?

Cleanliness is very important when it comes to bongs, so if you can’t do it yourself it is best to hire someone to do it for you. You can get your bong cleaned professionally at any smoke shop for just $10-$15 depending on the size and shape of your bong.