5 Things to Look for When Buying a Dab Rig Under $50
5 Things to Look for When Buying a Dab Rig Under $50
Blog Article
Dabbing doesn't have to break the bank. Whether you're a dab veteran or just stepping into the concentrated game, here's some good news: it's absolutely possible to get a good dab rig for under $50. The catch is that not all cheap rigs are created equal.
If you're on a budget, you still want to get a piece that performs well, lasts, and delivers smooth, tasty hits. So before you hit "Add to Cart," here are the five most critical things to check when buying a dab rig for under $50.
1. Material Quality Matters
The first thing to consider when searching for an affordable dab rig is the material. The majority of dab rigs are made of borosilicate glass, which is resistant to heat and surprisingly durable. Even in the sub-$50 range, you can find rigs made from this durable, lab-quality glass.
Avoid cheap, thin glass or acrylic rigs, which will crack in heat or shatter from a minor bump. Silicone dab rigs are another option at this price point—they're nearly indestructible and space-efficient, but won't produce the same clean flavor as glass.
Tip: Look for the product description to specifically call out borosilicate or "heat-resistant glass."
2. Compact Size for Maximum Flavor
At this budget, what you'll find mostly is mini or travel-sized dab rigs—and that's not such a bad thing. Mini rigs are actually ideal for flavor intensification because they allow the vapor to reach your mouth more quickly, which means more of the terpene profile of your concentrate is preserved.
A smaller size also makes it easier to carry and store, if you prefer to dab on the go. Just don't make it too small, because you want some space for water filtration to cool the vapor.
3. Percolation & Filtration System
Yes, even rigs under $50 can come with percolators! Percolators filter and chill the vapor before it hits your lungs, making for a smoother, more enjoyable experience.
Choose rigs with a simple percolator, such as a diffuser downstem, showerhead, or inline perc. These don't necessarily need to be flashy or complicated—just functional enough to prevent harsh hits and coughing fits.
Watch out for: ultra-basic rigs with no percolation system or filtration—they might look cool but deliver hot, unfiltered vapor.
4. Included Accessories
Some rigs come as complete sets, while others are just the base. If you’re new to dabbing or shopping on a budget, it's worth checking if the rig includes essential accessories like a quartz banger or nail.
Quartz bangers are optimal because they heat up quickly and retain heat, but make sure the joint size and angle fit what you prefer (standard sizes are 10mm or 14mm joints). Some rigs for under $50 even come with a carb cap or dab tool, sparing you more money and shopping time.
Buying a pre-assembled rig from the box is a significant plus for first-time users and budget shoppers.
5. Customer Reviews & Brand Reputation
Last but not least, don't ignore the reviews. Honest customer reviews can show you much more about how a dab rig really performs and how good it really is than pictures and product copy can.
If you're shopping from a niche smoke shop like SmokeMega.com, glance over the reviews section real quick. Are people happy with how well the build is made? Do they leave comments saying that it hits smooth? Was shipping fast and secure?
Even better—shop at a store that's clearly committed to glass and concentrate products, not just headshop general merchandise. That way, you know they're picking products that are specifically targeted to dabbers, not just stocking mass-market bargain-basement stuff.
Final Thoughts
It may appear difficult to find a good dab rig for less than $50, but it is far from impossible. With proper advice, you can acquire a piece that produces smooth, flavorful hits without breaking the bank.
- Here's a brief summary of what to expect:
- Sturdy borosilicate or silicone construction
- Miniature design that brings out flavor
- Simple percolation system for smooth hits
- Accessories such as a quartz banger included
Positive customer reviews and reputation of seller
Ready to start shopping for some of the highest-rated products? Check out our personally selected list of dab rigs under $50 on SmokeMega.com and find your perfect piece today—without overspending. Report this page