Dab rigs, percolator bongs, and portable bubblers all play a role in modern cannabis consumption, especially for those who want smoother, more flavorful hits.
But each has its own purpose, setup, and best-use scenario. Knowing the differences can help consumers invest wisely, avoid buying gimmicky gear, and improve their smoking experience altogether.
This guide lays out what each device does, how it works, and why someone might prefer one over the other.
It’s for anyone looking to make a smarter decision—whether upgrading their glassware or simply trying something new.
What Is a Dab Rig and How Does It Work?
Dab rigs are glass devices designed specifically for consuming cannabis concentrates, like wax or shatter.
They use a heated element called a “nail” (typically made from quartz, titanium, or ceramic) instead of a bowl. The user heats the nail with a torch until it’s hot enough to vaporize the concentrate.
The vapor is then inhaled through water, which cools it before reaching the lungs.
Most dab rigs are smaller than traditional bongs. This tighter airpath helps preserve the flavor and potency of concentrates. Since they don’t rely on combustion like flower-based devices, dab rigs generally produce less harsh smoke.
Key Components of a Dab Rig:
- Nail or banger (instead of a bowl)
- Torch or e-nail for heating
- Carb cap to trap heat and vapor
- Water chamber for cooling
Many modern dab rigs also include features like recycler tubes or directional airflow for better control over vapor movement. The goal is a clean, flavorful dab without wasting material.
Why Percolator Bongs Are Still the Most Popular Option
Percolator bongs (or “percs” for short) are traditional water pipes that include extra filtration mechanisms. They’re built for smoking dry herb, but their design focuses on reducing harshness by diffusing the smoke through water multiple times. The more diffusion, the cooler and smoother the hit.
A well-made percolator bong sends smoke through a series of small holes or slits. These break the smoke into smaller bubbles, increasing surface contact with water and filtering out unwanted particles. Some percolators use intricate tree-like structures or honeycomb discs to do this efficiently.
Popular Percolator Types:
- Tree percs: Branch-like arms for multi-path diffusion
- Honeycomb percs: Disc-shaped with dozens of tiny holes
- Showerhead percs: A vertical tube flaring into a perforated base
- Inline percs: Horizontal slits that diffuse evenly before main filtration
For users who prioritize smooth, cool draws—especially with larger hits—percolator bongs are a top choice.
They also tend to be easier to maintain than dab rigs due to fewer sticky residues from flower use.
Portable Bubblers: The Middle Ground Between Pipes and Bongs
Bubblers are compact smoking devices that use a small water chamber, offering a hybrid experience between a hand pipe and a bong.
Their strength lies in their portability and simplicity. Unlike percolator bongs, they don’t require a large setup. And unlike dry pipes, they still provide basic water filtration.
A portable bubbler can fit in one hand, making it ideal for casual users or travel. While it won’t cool smoke as much as a full-size bong, it does soften the draw enough to reduce coughing. Many newer designs come with built-in percs or removable parts for easier cleaning.
Why Choose a Bubbler?
- Quick setup and cleanup
- Water filtration without the bulk
- Discreet and travel-friendly
- Good for solo sessions or beginners
Some bubblers even double as dab rigs when fitted with a quartz banger, although that’s more of a workaround than a dedicated solution.
Comparing the Three Devices: Which One Suits You Best?
Choosing between dab rigs, percolator bongs, and portable bubblers depends on a few things: what material you’re smoking, how often you use it, and what level of maintenance you’re okay with.
| Feature | Dab Rig | Percolator Bong | Portable Bubbler |
| Best For | Concentrates | Flower (dry herb) | Light flower use |
| Portability | Low (torch required) | Low to moderate | High |
| Filtration Quality | High (for vapor) | Very high | Moderate |
| Maintenance | Medium to high (sticky resin) | Medium (ash and tar) | Low to medium |
If you’re mainly into wax and dabs, a dedicated rig makes sense.
For flower smokers who care about filtration and lung comfort, a percolator bong offers excellent value. And if you just want something quick and compact, a bubbler might be all you need.
Materials: Why They Matter
Most high-quality rigs, bongs, and bubblers are made from borosilicate glass. It’s heat-resistant and less prone to cracking. But cheaper models sometimes use acrylic or silicone, especially for bubblers.
While acrylic is lightweight and hard to break, it can affect flavor. Silicone, on the other hand, is durable and dishwasher-safe—but doesn’t give the same smooth hit as glass. For performance and taste, glass remains the preferred choice for serious users.
Accessories That Elevate the Experience
Beyond the device itself, there are tools and add-ons that can improve performance and convenience:
- Ash catchers: Keep percolator bongs cleaner by catching debris before it reaches the main chamber
- Carb caps: Essential for low-temp dabs on rigs, they retain vapor and maximize hits
- Quartz bangers: Offer better heat retention and flavor than titanium or ceramic nails
- Torch lighters: High-temp butane torches allow fast, even heating
- Reclaim catchers: Collect unused concentrate from rigs, reducing waste
Each of these upgrades makes sense depending on how often the user smokes and what they prioritize—flavor, efficiency, or ease of use.
Conclusion: Choose Based on How You Use
No single device is perfect for everyone. Dab rigs are precision tools for concentrate lovers. Percolator bongs remain the classic for flower enthusiasts who want cool, filtered hits. And bubblers fill the gap with portability and simplicity.
The best choice comes down to lifestyle, smoking habits, and preference. But whatever someone chooses, it’s always worth investing in solid materials and easy-to-clean designs—and knowing where to shop doesn’t hurt either.
