Dab/Wax Pens

If you're looking for the ultimate way to enjoy concentrates anytime, anywhere, these pens pack some serious punch in a pocket-sized package without the bulk of a dab rig.

But when you want pure convenience with serious power, these pens shine.

At DankGeek, we've curated a collection of top-tier wax pens to help beginners get started, and seasoned dabbers level up their game.

What is a Dab Pen or Wax Pen?

A dab pen, also known as a wax pen or concentrate vaporizer, is a handy, portable device designed for enjoying concentrates such as wax or oil. They can handle thicker, more viscous concentrates, unlike traditional vaping devices that use e-liquids with nicotine or other substances.

They are equipped with a heating element, often called an atomizer or coil, which heats the concentrate to produce vapor. Users can then inhale this vapor through a mouthpiece.

Dab pens have become a favorite among concentrate enthusiasts for their sleek, user-friendly functionality, discreet design, and potent experience. They often feature adjustable temperature settings, so dabbers can modify the vapor's intensity and flavor to suit their preferences.

What is a Dab Pen or Wax Pen Used For?

Wax pens are your pocket-sized partner for enjoying concentrates like wax, shatter, rosin, or live resin. Instead of burning your material like old-school methods, these handy devices vaporize your concentrate for smooth, flavorful hits that are easy on the throat.

Dab pens are commonly used for a variety of purposes, including:

• Medicinal Relief: Many medical users prefer dab pens because they offer controlled dosing and fast-acting effects, making them a great option for those seeking quick relief.

• Everyday Fun: Dab pens are popular for their no-fuss setup, making them perfect for powerful sessions anytime, anywhere.

• Low-Key Consumption: Wax pens keep your sessions discreet, whether at home or on the go, and they also produce minimal odor.

• Personalized Sessions: Many models come with adjustable temperature settings, letting you choose between flavorful hits and dense clouds.

A Quick Look Back: The History of Dab Pens

Ever wondered how dab pens came to be? What began as ancient vapor practices and DIY setups has evolved into modern devices built for flavor, power, and portability. Here's how it all unfolded.

Early Origins of Dabbing and Concentrates

While the term "dab" emerged around the 1970s, the concept of vaporizing plant extracts dates back centuries, even to the ancient nomadic people called the Scythians, who heated hemp seeds on hot stones in 430 BC.

As extraction techniques improved, concentrates gained popularity for their strength and purity. It laid the groundwork for the potent oils and waxes we know and love today.

The Inception of Dab Pens

Fast-forward to the early 2000s, concentrates were on the rise, and with them came the need for effective ways to consume them.

Enter the early dab pens: DIY devices made of a battery, heating element, and concentrate chamber that got the job done. These early models weren't exactly sleek—they were clunky, slow to heat, and far from consistent.

However, thanks to e-cig technology, which originated from a 2003 patent by Chinese pharmacist Hon Lik, dab pens began to evolve into something more discreet and user-friendly.

Evolution and Innovation

By the mid-2010s, dab pens were no longer a rough draft. Rechargeable batteries, precise temp control, and replaceable coils brought a major upgrade to the experience. Dab pens soon rivaled traditional flower consumption for their convenience, customizable settings, swappable parts, and vibe that matched any lifestyle.

Modern Dab Pens

Credits: @vapeguyy

Now, dab pens are the go-to for concentrate lovers—small, stylish, and powerful enough to keep up with daily sessions. They have become mainstream, and innovation continues to grow, with a wide variety of models catering to different preferences and budgets.

The Pros and Cons of Using Wax Pens

Wax pens have earned their place as a go-to tool for concentrate lovers. But like any device, they come with their fair share of perks and a few quirks.

Below are the main pros and cons of using a dab pen:

Pros

• Ultimate Portability: Wax pens are small enough to slide into your pocket or bag. You can bring it wherever your day takes you without drawing attention.

• User-Friendly: Dab pens are designed with simplicity, making them great for both newbies and experienced dabbers. Just load, click, and enjoy—no complicated setup required!

• No Torch Needed: Forget fiddling with flames—dab pens use battery power to heat your concentrates. That means a safer, more convenient way to dab.

• Accurate Temps: Many wax pens come with 2-4 preset temperatures, giving you more control over terpenes—no more guessing—just smooth, dialed-in hits.

• Easy Maintenance: A wax pen has just a few main parts: a battery, an atomizer, and a mouthpiece. Keeping it clean is simple, and finding replacement pieces is easy if anything wears out.

• Potent Performance: Wax pens handle high-potency concentrates, giving you powerful hits with just a small dab. A few puffs are all it takes to feel the full effect.

Cons

• Requires Frequent Cleaning: Dab pens require regular cleaning to maintain a smooth and fresh hit. Skip the maintenance, and you'll risk burnt flavors or gunky buildup that ruins your next sesh.

• More Stuff To Bring: Along with your wax pen, you'll likely carry your concentrates, charger, and cleaning tools. It's not a huge deal, but it's more to manage when you're out.

• Shorter Battery Life: Wax pens use up battery power faster, especially during longer or hotter sessions. It's a minor inconvenience, but something to consider.

• No Disposable Option: Unlike some vape pens, wax pens aren't disposable. So, you'll need to care for it if you want it to last.

• Wears Down Over Time: Like any electronic, wax pens can lose performance with heavy use. Eventually, the battery won't last as long, and your clouds might not be as big as they once were.

Difference Between a Wax Pen and a Vape Pen

Wax pens and vape pens might look similar at first glance, but they serve different purposes.

Wax pens can handle thicker, more viscous substances like wax, shatter, or budder, and they utilize a coil or chamber to heat concentrates. Vape pens, meanwhile, are designed for thinner oils or e-liquids and often come with easy-to-swap cartridges, making on-the-go sessions a breeze.

Both deliver unique experiences—wax pens pack a punch with big, tasty clouds, while vape pens focus on smooth, subtle hits that keep things chill.

Difference Between a Dab Pen and a Cart Pen

Dab pens can handle thick concentrates that require intense heat to transform into smooth vapor. It is versatile, letting you experiment with different textures and potencies while maintaining complete control over every puff.

Cart pens, on the flip side, prioritize effortless enjoyment over hands-on involvement. These devices work exclusively with threaded cartridges filled with concentrated oils, creating a virtually mess-free experience as simple as twisting, clicking, and inhaling.

Difference Between a Dab Pen and an E-Rig

Dab pens are all about simplicity and mobility, designed to slip into your lifestyle, making them perfect for users who want to enjoy their sessions anytime, anywhere. These compact devices have a built-in battery and atomizer that quickly vaporizes your concentrates.

E-rigs or electric dab rigs take a completely different approach, prioritizing performance and vapor quality over portability with their larger build and plug-in power requirements. These units come equipped with water filtration systems and temperature controls, creating smoother, more flavorful hits than their portable counterparts.

Both devices serve their purpose well, but your choice depends on whether you prioritize convenience and portability or vapor quality and customization options.

Dab Pen Components

Here's a breakdown of each component of a wax pen.

• Battery: Most dab pens are equipped with rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, so you can easily charge your device between sessions.

• Heating Element (Coil or Atomizer): This component heats your wax or shatter into smooth vapor and can consistently handle thick concentrates.

• Chamber: The chamber holds the concentrate. Manufacturers usually use durable materials that can handle high temps without affecting the taste.

• Mouthpiece: This component is where you inhale the vapor. Some models feature built-in loading tools to make placing concentrates easier and more convenient.

• Button/Control Interface: Some dab pens feature a button for powering on and adjusting the temperature settings. A few quick clicks, and you're good to go.

• Dab Tool: A small metal utensil used to handle concentrates and load them into the chamber of a dab pen.

• Charger: Most models come with a USB charger that can be plugged into a power bank or computer.

Dab Pen 101: What to Look For

For beginner dabbers, picking the perfect dab pen doesn't have to be complicated—you just need to know what features suit your style. Here at DankGeek, we've got you covered with a breakdown of what to look for when choosing the right dab pen for you:

Materials and Build Quality

The material used to make the wax pen directly impacts its durability and the quality of your dabbing experience. Here are some common materials you'll come across when shopping for your dab pen:

• Aluminum: Aluminum pens are lightweight, making them easy to carry without compromising durability.

• Steel: Steel pens are durable and feel premium in your hand, making them ideal for daily use.

• Glass: Glass pens provide a clean, pure flavor but need extra care to prevent cracks or breaks.

• Carbon Fiber: Dab pens made from carbon fiber are stronger than steel but weigh less than aluminum.

• Ceramic: Ceramic wax pens are known for preserving flavor and delivering smooth draws.

• Quartz: Quartz pens are excellent for clean vapor and fast heat-up times.

• Magnetic: Magnetic dab pens provide easy assembly and a secure fit for components.

• Metal: Metal wax pens are durable and reliable, making them a solid choice.

• Silicone: Silicone pens are flexible, resilient, and easy to grip, ideal for users on the go.

• Titanium: Titanium wax pens are super strong and heat-resistant, built for heavy use without wearing down.

Atomizer Types

Concentrate atomizers come in three types: wicked, wickless (referring to the material around the heating coil), and flat, also known as "donut," "terra," or "halo" style.

• Wicked Atomizers: These atomizers have a fibrous wick wrapped around the coil, making them ideal for lower viscosity (runny or waxy) concentrates.

• Wickless Atomizers: Wickless rod atomizers are ideal for users seeking more power at higher temperatures and are best with thicker concentrates.

• Flat Ceramic Dish: These modern atomizers have a flat ceramic dish, providing a slower, more controlled burn for concentrates while delivering superior flavor.

Dab Pens Coil Types

Your coil choice affects flavor, heat-up time, and overall performance. Here's what you'll find:

• Quartz: Heat up fast and produce clean, terpene-packed vapor.

• Ceramic: Deliver slow, steady heat for super-smooth hits.

• Titanium: Tough and quick to heat, though it may slightly alter taste.

• Silicon Carbide: Offers thick, flavorful vapor and excellent heat resistance.

Portability

A compact pen is easy to slip into your pocket or bag and perfect for discreet use—just keep in mind that smaller models might trade off some battery life for that ultra-portable form.

Push Button Pens vs. Auto-Draw Pens

The way you activate your pen can change your experience.

• Push-Button Pens: These let you control settings like voltage or preheat for a customized hit, which is ideal for users who like to fine-tune their sessions.

• Auto-Draw Pens: Simply inhale to start vaping—no buttons, no fuss, just smooth, effortless hits.

Battery Life and Temperature Control

Wax pens with high-capacity batteries (900mAh or more) are great for longer sessions, while compact batteries (400–800mAh) are lighter and easier to carry. Many pens also offer adjustable temperature settings, so you can go low for maximum flavor or crank it up for big, satisfying clouds.

Beginner-Friendly Dab Pens Worth Trying

DankGeek has a wide selection of dab pens to choose from, but here are some of our top picks for beginners:

Concentrate Types for Wax Pens: Know Your Options

Wax pens can handle a variety of concentrates, each with its own texture, flavor, and vapor style. Here's a breakdown of what's available to help you pick the perfect match for your pen and vibe.

• Wax: Sticky and pliable, wax is easy to load and works well with most dab pens. It delivers reliable hits and smooth vapor without much fuss.

• Shatter: This brittle, glass-like concentrate breaks into neat pieces, making it easy to handle. It's known for delivering clean, powerful vapor.

• Crumble: Light and crumbly; this concentrate is mess-free and simple to load. It offers a strong, flavorful experience without the sticky fingers.

• Budder: This creamy, soft concentrate does look and feel a lot like butter. Budder is quite spreadable and loved for smooth draws and rich, satisfying flavor.

• Badder: This whipped concentrate has a cake batter-like texture that's easy to load. It's a top choice for those chasing tasty, terpene-rich hits.

• Live Rosin: Made to capture maximum flavor, live rosin is all about bold, fresh-tasting vapor. It's a favorite for those who want a next-level experience.

• Jam: Jam brings a sticky, gel-like texture dotted with crystalline goodness. It's perfect for thick, flavorful clouds.

• Sauce: Thanks to its thick, syrupy consistency, sauce delivers layered flavors and bold, full-bodied vapor that hits just right.

• Hashish: Hashish is a traditional concentrate pressed into a solid form, providing a smooth and earthy vapor. It's easy to work with and consistently satisfying.

• Sugar Wax: With a texture like wet sugar, sugar wax is easy to scoop and load. It provides a sweet, terpene-rich vapor that's both tasty and potent.

• THC Oil: THC oil is a versatile concentrate and a great option for beginners or anyone looking for a simple, convenient way to enjoy THC.

How to Choose the Right Concentrate

Picking the right concentrate is all about what kind of experience you want. Whether you're chasing flavor, potency, or ease of use, there's something for every style.

• If You Want Easy Handling: Crumble, budder, and sugar wax are great choices—they're simple to load and mess-free.

• If You're After Big Flavor: Live resin, sauce, and jam deliver rich, terpene-packed vapor that's hard to beat.

• If You're All About Smooth, Powerful Clouds: Shatter, wax, or badder can offer that satisfying, robust hit.

• If You Like the Classics: Hashish is a tried-and-true option with a traditional feel to your sessions.

Pro Tips from a Dabber for Smoother Sessions

Ready to take your dab pen sessions to the next level? DankGeek has some practical tips to help you get smoother hits, tastier vapor, and a hassle-free experience every time.

Nail Your Heat Settings

The right temperature yields better flavor, smoother clouds, and a more enjoyable overall experience. Check out the ideal heat settings below.

• Low heat (315°F – 400°F): Perfect for preserving those delicate terpenes and enjoying rich flavors. Your clouds might be smaller, but your taste buds will thank you.

• High heat (400°F – 500°F): Delivers bigger clouds and a stronger hit, but be ready to sacrifice some flavor. Too much heat can burn off the tasty bits that make your dabs delicious.

Don't Overdo It with Filling or Heat

It's easy to get excited and overload your pen, but less is definitely more here. Overfilling can clog your pen, cause leaks, and leave you with a sticky mess.

Always use a dab tool and aim for a small dab (approximately the size of a grain of rice) for smooth, even vapor. Additionally, overheating can scorch your concentrate, so be mindful of your heat settings to avoid a harsh inhale.

Keep Your Pen Fresh and Clean

A little maintenance goes a long way in keeping your sessions tasty and your pen running smoothly. It's best to clean your pen after each use to prevent sticky buildup.

Regular cleaning keeps your vapor pure. The maintenance guide in the next section will help you keep your pen working like a charm for many sessions to come.

Maintenance Tips: Keeping Your Dab Pen in Optimal Condition

Want your dab pen to deliver smooth hits and last longer? A little TLC goes a long way! Follow these tips to keep your device clean, fresh, and ready for action.

• Gather your cleaning supplies, including cotton swabs, rubbing alcohol, warm water, and paper towels.

• Set your pen to the highest temperature and tip it upside down over a paper towel to let the leftover concentrate drip out.

• After the pen cools, carefully disassemble it into its components: battery, atomizer, and mouthpiece.

• Dip a cotton swab in isopropyl alcohol and gently clean the inside of the heating chamber, being careful to avoid the coils.

• Use a swab with alcohol to wipe the battery threads and keep those connections clean.

• Clean the mouthpiece with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol to remove any buildup.

• Allow all parts to dry completely before putting your pen back together—no rinsing is needed since the alcohol evaporates quickly.

Must-Have Wax Pen Accessories

Level up your sessions with these essential accessories from DankGeek that are total game-changers.

Vaporizer Replacement Parts

• Coils and Atomizers: Coils and atomizer replacement parts are available in different materials like quartz, ceramic, or dual coils to customize flavor and vapor production.

• Batteries: Replaceable or upgradeable batteries to extend device life or improve power output.

• Mouthpieces: Available in materials such as glass, metal, or zirconia, which can affect flavor and heat resistance.

• Charging Cables: USB or USB-C chargers compatible with specific pen models.

Loading and Handling Tools

• Dab Tools: Small metal or silicone picks/spoons used to load concentrates into the chamber without a mess.

• Silicone Containers: Non-stick storage for wax concentrates, preventing waste and making loading easier.

Carrying and Storage

• Travel Pouches and Cases: Protective and discreet carrying cases to safely store your dab pen, concentrates, and accessories.

• Stash Tubes: Small containers designed to hold wax, concentrates, or small accessories securely.

Cleaning Supplies

• Isopropyl Alcohol Wipes and Q-tips: Use them to clean the chamber, mouthpiece, and connections regularly to maintain performance.

• Brushes and Pipe Cleaners: To remove residue from coils and hard-to-reach areas.

Specialized Attachments

• Dip Devices/Flower Attachments: Allow you to use dry herbs or flowers with your concentrate pen battery.

• Extended Mouthpieces: For cooling vapor by increasing the distance it travels before inhalation.

FAQs

What is The Difference Between Dabbing And Vaping?

Dabbing involves using concentrated extracts and heating them directly, typically with a dab pen or rig. Vaping usually refers to pre-filled cartridges.

Is A Dab Pen The Same As Smoking?

Not quite! A dab pen heats your concentrate just enough to vaporize it—no fire, no combustion. That means you're inhaling vapor, not smoke, which tends to be smoother on the lungs.

Where Can You Buy Dab Pens?

DankGeek has a wide selection of wax pens for both beginners and seasoned dabbers to choose from.

How Should I Store A Dab Pen Correctly?

Keep your dab or wax pens clean and dry. Avoid extreme temperatures, especially in places like your car, as it can lead to leaks, clogs, or battery issues with your dab pen.

When Should I Clean My Dab Pen Or Dab Straw?

Clean your dab pens when the buildup starts or the hits feel off. Don't wait until it's sticky—cleaning regularly, especially after heavy use, keeps flavor fresh and airflow smooth.

Are Dab Pen Highs Different?

Although the material of the wax pen can affect your dabbing experience, the strain, extraction method, and terpene profile of the concentrate have a much bigger impact on the type of high you get.

Why is My Dab Pen Blinking Red?

Most likely, your battery is running low and needs recharging.

Is A Dab Pen Worth It?

Absolutely! Dab pens are a convenient, mess-free way to enjoy your favorite concentrates with style and ease. They're beginner-friendly, travel-ready, and offer rich flavors with less fuss than traditional rigs.

Do I Need A Special Battery For My Dab Pen?

Not necessarily—many dab pens are designed to work with standard 510-thread batteries, which are pretty universal. It makes swapping parts or upgrading your setup super easy.

Are Quartz Or Ceramic Coils Better For Flavor?

Both have their strengths! Ceramic coils are excellent for preserving flavor and delivering smoother, tastier draws. On the other hand, quartz coils heat up quickly, producing thicker, denser clouds.

Can I Use A Dab Pen For Both Wax And Dry Herbs?

Some dab pens can handle both, but it's always a good idea to double-check your pen's specs. If you're looking for something versatile, try a hybrid dry herb vaporizer!

How Do I Adjust The Temperature On My Wax Pen?

Most wax pens come with variable voltage settings that you can change by clicking the power button a few times. At the same time, others have 2-4 heat settings that you can toggle through.

What's The Best Way To Clean A Wax Pen?

Start with a cotton swab and isopropyl alcohol. Clean the chamber, coil, and mouthpiece to remove gunk and keep everything running smoothly. Regular cleaning not only improves flavor but also extends your pen's lifespan.