The Best Alternative Vaporizers of 2020

Photo Credit: Grenco Science

2020 has been filled with new product launches from all the best brands in the industry. We complied a list of the best alternative vaporizers and categorized them based off the ability to vaporize dry herbs, concentrates, or both. Hopefully this list helps you make the decision on what type of device to select whether you are a first time buyer or looking to add to your collection.

BEST DRY HERBS & CONCENTRATE VAPORIZERS: 

Portable vaporizers that allow you to vape both dry herbs and concentrates are the best options for those seeking an efficient yet versatile vaporizer. 

 The DaVinci IQ2 is a dual-use vaporizer that allows you to vape dry herbs and includes a dosage pod for concentrate consumption. In addition to Smart Path Technology and precision temperature control, the IQ2 enables tracking and reporting of dosages through the device and Bluetooth smartphone integration.  The IQ2 new Air Dial feature lets you choose from five levels of airflow. Designed for pure flavor transfer, the IQ2 has an airtight, glass and ceramic zirconia airpath; the vapor path’s shape has been redesigned for easy cleaning. The IQ2 features heat-not-burn conduction, the vaporizer’s glass-lined oven is 20% thicker and supports up to .5 grams of dry herb, or a .2-gram Dosage Pod. Use the Pearl to extend the oven size an additional 30%. A removable and rechargeable 18650 battery enables the IQ2 to heat up in less than 60 seconds.

Features:

• Capable of Vaping Dry Herbs and Concentrates
• 35% More Air Holes Than Predecessor
• Dosage Pod Included
• Air Dial With 5 Airflow Levels
• Ceramic Zirconia Vapor Path
• Glass-Lined Oven
• Adjustable Oven Size
• Heat-Not-Burn Conduction
• Bluetooth Smartphone Integration
• Smart Path Technology
• 60-Second Heat-Up Time
• Removable & Rechargeable 18650 Battery
• Brushed Aluminum Shell

 The Crafty+ by Storz & Bickel is a portable vaporizer that delivers more sessions and faster heat-up times than the original Crafty. The Crafty+ has a slimmer body making it easier to fit more pocket-sized portable device. The Crafty+ uses a hybrid heating system that delivers open airflow and low draw resistance. By combining conduction and convection heating, the Crafty+ quickly heats up without burning your material. The preset temperature settings are optimized for immediate use, and a new Super-Boost mode produces thick vapor clouds from dry herb and concentrates with just three clicks. The Crafty+ also boasts an improved battery life and an updated hardware for more reliable performance. Users can expect a 30% faster heat-up time, with the Crafty+ ready for action in as little as one minute.  Be in total control of the Crafty+ with just an iOS or Android device, and the Remote Control App.

 Features:

• Capable of Vaping Dry Herbs and Concentrates
• Compact Design
• Convection & Conduction Heating Technology
• 30% Faster Heat-Up Time
• More Bowls Per Charge
• Super-Boost Mode
• Optimized Grip
• Total Control Via Bluetooth App

The Volcano Hybrid is the latest desktop vaporizer developed by Storz & Bickel. Instead of heating your material directly on the hot surface of the chamber, the Volcano Hybrid uses Storz & Bickel’s elite convection heating technology. Air is propelled through the vapor path by a 100-watt heater, which vaporizes your dry herb or concentrates without combustion. Convection heating is much smoother than conduction due to essentially zero combustion while heating to a vapor. Users will appreciate the smooth vapor of the Volcano Hybrid as it is free of unwanted tastes or odors. The new hybrid inhalation system allows you to enjoy elite vapor production with the whip delivery system or classic balloon bag style. The new whip-style system manages to improve the flavor experience. By drawing directly from the heating chamber, vapor is delivered at a faster rate. For those who want to enjoy the classic balloon delivery method, simply switch the attachment and fill the balloon with the built-in air pump.  The Hybrid features a heat-up time that is 10 times faster, improved airflow, and a newly designed app for total control over your sessions.

Firefly releases its latest and most advanced portable vaporizer the Firefly 2+. The newest model of one of the top vaporizers on the market features even more power and performance. The Firefly 2+ adds an innovative new airflow system and more battery life. Known for delivering superb taste, the Firefly 2+ continues that legacy with some of the most efficient heating technology on the market. The Firefly’s patented dynamic convection heating technology smoothly moves  up the temperature scale throughout each pull. This allows all the compounds within the plant or concentrate material to vaporize at their correct temperatures within each draw. This full plant experience allows the user to immediately taste and feel the difference. The award-winning designers of Firefly 2+ crafted the body of the device from the same high-grade alloy materials used on spaceships by NASA. The borosilicate glass bowl and vapor path help deliver pure flavor in addition to making the Firefly 2+ very easy to load and clean. You can use the free smartphone app which allows you to fully customize airflow and temperature from 200 °F–500 °F, although the temperature can also be adjusted on the device without the app.

The Exxus Mini Plus delivers satisfying, great tasting sessions in this compact designed vaporizer. With standout features like haptic feedback, 30 second heat up time, adjustable temperature range of 320°F to 410°F, Micro USB charging and magnetic mouthpiece, the Exxus Mini Plus is a must have for vapers on the go.

Features:

• Capable of vaping Dry Herbs and Concentrates
• Haptic Feedback
• 30 Second Heat up
• Clear Digital Display
• Adjustable temperatures 320°F-410°F
• Micro USB Charging
• Conduction Heating Technology
• Dimensions- 4" tall by 1" wide

BEST CONCENTRATE VAPORIZERS: 

These devices are for vaping oils, concentrates, and distillate. Concentrate vaporizers are able to consistently provide the same benefits of a dab rig, minus the torch and enail. These vaporizers are great for beginner or experienced users because you will not have to deal with wind blowing, torches, or carrying/refilling butane tanks. 

The Peak by Puffco unleashes the true power of concentrate oils and solids, providing the clearest expression of potency, flavor, and effects of the plant they're derived from. The Peak provides an efficient and enjoyable experience, faster and easier than ever before. This device has a 20 second average heat up time and features 4 unique user heat settings. Beginner or expert, small or big loads, flavor or big clouds, no matter how you like to consume there is a perfect setting for you. Sesh-mode also lets you extend your session, creating the first social dab experience.  This smart rig is equipped with intelligent temperature calibration software that automatically adjusts heat times if your bowl is still hot. This provides a more consistent experience during repeated use and sesh-mode. The Haptic feedback feature keeps your timing spot on so you're getting the perfect hit every time. The battery fully charges in 2 hours when using the supercharger. A fully charged battery usually lasts around 30 dabs

 Features:

• Capable of vaping Concentrates
• Hand-blown glass
• Water filtration
• 4 unique user heat settings
• 20 sec average heat up time
• Intelligent temperature calibration
• Sesh-Mode Functionality
• 2 hour fast charge time
• 30 dab average battery life
• Removable ceramic bowl
• LED light band
• Carrying case included
• Haptic feedback
• Rugged silicone base
• Dimensions- 7” high x 2.75” base

 The G Pen Roam is a portable dab rig with superior water filtration for vaping concentrates. The enclosed glass hydro-tube cools and filters ever draw to perfection. The Roam is powered by a rechargeable 1300mAh lithium-ion battery equipped with pass-through charging technology. The Roam features an easy to read LED display with a temperature range of 600 °F –800 °F, providing users with options for flavor profile exploration. Designed for durability, the Roam has an aluminum shell, as well as protective housing for its full quartz tank. The Max Cleaning Mode is a high energy heat cycle intended to burn away any remaining residue. 

Features:

• Capable of Vaping Concentrates
• Enclosed Glass Hydro-Tube
• Full Quartz Tank
• Durable Aluminum Shell
• Rechargeable 1300mAh Lithium-Ion Battery
• Rapid Charging With Pass-Through Technology
• LED Display
• 600 °F–800 °F Temperature Range
• Removable Silicone Mouthpiece
• Max Cleaning Mode

The Grenco Science G Pen Connect allows you to use any water piece with a glass-to-glass connection to create a powerful e-rig capable of vaping concentrates. The Connect is designed with a patented reverse airflow technology and a spring-loaded carb release button. The ceramic heating element evenly heats solid concentrate to deliver pure, flavorful vapor. The magnetic 850mAh battery is equipped with three temperature settings (blue: 3.1 volts, green: 3.6 volts, and red: 4.1 volts).

Features:

• 850mAh Magnetic Battery
• Patented Reverse Airflow Technology
• Spring-Loaded Carb Release Button
• Ceramic Heating Element
• Magnetic Tank Cap
• Fits Any Water Piece With Glass-To-Glass Connection

The Wulf Mods Yocan Evolve Plus XL Concentrate Vaporizer is great for vaping oils or soilds. The quad coil quartz atomizer provides four times the surface area of the average wax pen, delivering huge, dab-like clouds that you’d expect from an eNail, while still maintaining a compact experience. Designed with a 1400mAh battery that has 25% more battery life, the Evolve Plus XL packs a punch in performance and portability. The mouthpiece connection is magnetic for the added convenience and allows you to easily control the airflow to really personalize your experience. In addition to a hanging ring and lanyard, the Evolve Plus XL includes a detachable, built-in dual compartment silicone jar, enabling you to you to discreetly carry your waxy substances on-the-go. Pocket-friendly and stealthy, the Evolve Plus XL puts the power of a dab-rig in the palm of your hand. Replace your atomizer coils every 90-180 days depending on use.

Features:

• Capable of vaping Concentrates
• Quad Coil Quartz Atomizer
• Magnetic Mouthpiece Connection
• Adjustable Airflow
• Built-In Dual Compartment Stash Jar
• 1400 mAh Battery
• USB Charging
• Dimensions- 2 x 5.5 x 2.5 in.

 The G Pen Nova LXE is a sleeker, more powerful upgrade of the original Nova vaporizer. The Nova LXE features a 100% ceramic heating element. The ceramic nail means that no outside flavors will attach themselves to your material or heating element. The patented reverse airflow and “check” ball system evenly heats your concentrates during your sessions. With its reverse airflow system, your temperature is consistently producing a hefty amount of vapor. The Nova LXE tank has a detachable stainless steel loading tool on the bottom of the mouthpiece. This tool makes it easy to load your concentrates in the ceramic heating chamber. The new mouthpiece is also engineered to reduce sticking and prevent clogs from delivering your vapor directly and efficiently. The 650mAh battery features over double the original Nova’s output. This upgraded battery has voltages of 3.2V, 3.6V, and 4.1V to allow for a full range of experiences during your sessions. The lower voltages ensure a flavorful draw, while the highest option is for those who want thicker vapor. The “extended draw mode” preheats the ceramic oven for 10 seconds to build up vapor. The 510 threading of the G Pen Nova LXE’s battery also makes it compatible with most 510 cartridges.

Features:

BEST DRY HERB VAPORIZERS: 

These devices are the best portable vaporizers for vaping dry herbs only. Be sure you have a grinder on hand, to perfectly break down your herbs to an even optimal vaping consistency. 

The Grenco Science G Pen Dash is a compact and lightweight portable vaporizer provides an unmatched dry herb vaping experience. Constructed with a durable aluminum alloy body, this vaporizer features a glass-glazed stainless steel heating chamber with an easy-to-load chamber opening. The Dash has a magnetic mouthpiece with an integrated airpath and is powered by a rechargeable 950mAh battery with three temperature settings: 375 °F, 401 °F, and 428 °F. This dynamic device is engineered with “session mode” and an automatic shutoff feature. For convenience, the Dash features passthrough charging via micro USB.

Features:

• Capable of Vapinig Dry Herbs
• Compact & Lightweight
• Aluminum Alloy Body
• Glass-Glazed, Stainless Steel Heating Chamber
• Easy-To-Load Chamber Opening
• Magnetic Mouthpiece
• Integrated Airpath
• 3 Temperature Settings
• 950mAh BatterySession Mode
• Automatic Shutoff Feature
• Dimensions: 3.6” x 1.2” x “0.8”

The DaVinci MIQRO is a portable vaporizer unlike any other. Using the same innovative technology of the IQ, with a 31% smaller design, the MIQRO places powerful vapor production in your palm. This pocket-friendly device features 4 advanced Smart Path heat settings, each offering a unique range of flavors, aromas, and effects. Transition to precision temperature to turn the aromatic blends you have into the vapor you want with temperature control. The MIQRO preserves vapor purity with a 100% ceramic zirconia vapor path, delivering smooth, flavor-rich hits. An adjustable ceramic oven allows you to alter bowl size by up to 50%, delivering maximum vapor quality even with smaller loads. The DaVinci MIQRO makes vaping smarter, easier, and more delightful.

• Capable of vaping Dry Herbs
• 31% Smaller Design
• Adjustable Bowl Size
• Boost Mode
• Integrated Picking Tool
• Smart Path Heating
• Precision Temperature
• Zirconium Ceramic Vapor Path
• 5-Year Warranty
• Anodized Aluminum Casing
• Conduction Heating Technology
• Dimensions - 0.91 x 1.34 x 3.13 in

The G Pen Elite portable compact vaporizer that's made by the team at Grenco Science. The G Pen Elite features custom temperatures and a LED interface that shows the current temperature and battery life. It takes only 30 seconds to heat up, even with one of the largest chambers on the market. The G Pen Elite is capable of holding up to .75g of dry herb material! The fully ceramic chamber allows for 360% heating on all sides, which provides unparalleled flavor. 

Comment below with your thoughts on our list? What is your favorite portable vaporizer of 2020 so far?