Desktop vapes were the original electronic vaporiser available to the residential consumer. Making their first appearances in the early 1990s, they began to gradually make themselves known to an already well-established community of herbal enthusiasts. Back then though, as with most ground-breaking technology in its infancy, there’s no denying that vapes were seen as more of a novelty than anything else.

Flash forward to the present day and we see a dramatic evolution has taken place. What were once rudimentary instruments have undergone a number of massive developments. Automatic shut-off, precision digital temperature control, medical grade materials, isolated vapour paths; these features and more and now boasted by most units these days. 

In the last 5-10 years, vape technology made another huge leap forward with the creation of portable, battery-powered models which continue to get smaller and smaller. These devices have shifted the focus away from desktop units somewhat. It’s important to note that there are still many potential draws associated with desktop vapes.

Are they the right option for you, though? Here are a few quick points to consider:

Desktop vapes plug directly into power, so they never run out of juice mid-session.

Most desktop models have extended mouthpieces or even long sections of tubing, which provide much cooler vapour delivery and therefore less irritation to your lungs when you inhale.

Desktop vapes tend to come with much larger filling chambers than their portable counterparts. This means you won’t have to refill anywhere near and often.

Larger, more accessible components make for easier disassembly and cleaning than portable vapes.

No power restrictions means that “convection” or “hot-air-stream” heating (a cleaner, tastier method of heating than by direct contact or “conduction”) can be utilised without any consequences. Of course we are seeing more and more portables offering full-convection heating these days but it will always use a lot more power and therefore, decrease available battery life.

Durability   
Being inherently larger than portables means that digital circuitry can be separated further from heating components, therefore extending the product’s lifespan.

The above factors should definitely be considered if you’re in the market for a desktop vape. 

Already convinced? Then here are our top four picks for best desktop vapes you should consider in 2018:

Classic Volcano 

Made to be elegant and attractive while also being built to last for decades to come, the classic Volcano by Storz & Bickel is still among the most commonly used desktop vaporisers on the market. With a reputation for quality vapour production and unbreakable design, it’s a must have for any vaper!

The Volcano is complete with temperature control settings, a large interior oven, and several fan speed settings for a tailored vape experience. The biggest feature that sets the classic Volcano apart from the rest is the valve balloon where the vapuor gets stored. The removable balloon allows for long term vape supply or allows you to take the vape experience elsewhere.

The Volcano has a reputation for excellence that has stood the test of time. It is so efficient it extracts up to 75% more active ingredients from your chosen herbs than what other desktop vapes can. It’s little wonder this powerhouse vaporizer is so popular.

Extreme Q 

The Extreme Q by Arizer offers users young and old alike the very best in vaping experiences and allows for great quality vapour at an affordable price-point. It is elegant, user-friendly, and carries some great features, usually only offered by high-end units.

The Q is a multi-function vaporizer which means it can deliver vapour via two different methods depending on your preference; whip tube inhalation or balloon inflation. This is often the hardest choice to make when shopping for a desktop vape so the option to switch between the two is super-handy!

Another great selling point of the Extreme Q Vaporizer is that it is remote control operated. This provides a greater range of use and takes the convenience factor to a whole new level. 

Digital temperature control, multiple fan speeds, easy-to-read display screen, stainless steel construction, superior craftsmanship, and large volume filling chamber make this a desktop vaporizer that is sure to be on every vaper’s wish list sooner or later. 

Arizer V Tower 

The V Tower by Arizer is generally quite similar to the Extreme Q. If the option of balloon inflation vapour delivery doesn’t appeal to you and you want to save your self a few bucks, then the V Tower is a great option

Made with glass, stainless steel, silicone tubing, and a ceramic heating element, the V-Tower produces thick wonderful clouds of vapour. The system is designed with a fast 1-2 minute heating time and features a programmable shut off timer as well.

It’s simple yet effective design is perfect for entry-level and experienced users alike.