Distillate vs. Live Resin Carts: Choosing the Right One for You

Jan 10, 2025by Lindsey Goldstein

A Mellow Fellow CLARITY Forbidden Fruit-flavored live resin displayed against a multicolored background

Vape cartridges have gained popularity as a convenient and portable way to enjoy cannabis without any rolling, excess smell, or drawing too much attention.

But not all vape carts are created equal, as they can be made out of various concentrates, with live resin and distillate being two of the most common types,

Knowing the difference between distillate and live resin carts can help you choose what fits your taste. These products vary widely in their flavors and effects, as well as their extraction methods and chemical structure.

Each offers distinct benefits based on what you want from your cannabis experience, and that’s what we’re here for today: to provide you with an in-depth distillate vs. live resin cart comparison so you can make the right choice.

Keep reading to determine if live resin or distillate carts are right for you. Let’s start by finding out what distillate carts are.

Key Takeaways

Distillate vs. live resin carts differ in extraction methods, chemical composition, effects, and flavor profiles.
Distillate carts have THC levels exceeding 90%, offering a highly potent and discreet vaping experience.
Live resin carts retain the plant’s natural terpenes and cannabinoids, providing a richer flavor and full-spectrum effects.
The entourage effect in live resin carts enhances the interaction between cannabinoids and terpenes, leading to a more balanced high.
Distillate carts vs live resin carts also vary in price, with distillates generally being more affordable and widely available.
Choosing between distillate and live resin depends on whether you prioritize potency, flavor, effects, or budget.

Distillate Carts Explained

Distillate carts are pre-filled vape cartridges containing highly refined cannabis oil. This oil undergoes an extensive purification process that isolates specific cannabinoids, such as THC or CBD, from the plant material.

The result is a nearly odorless and flavorless product, often enhanced with added terpenes or flavorings for a more enjoyable experience.

The production of distillates involves multiple steps, including solvent extraction, winterization, decarboxylation, and distillation.

Each stage is designed to remove impurities and maximize potency. In fact, THC levels in distillate carts can exceed 90%, making them some of the most potent vape options available.

Many users prefer distillate carts for their discreet nature and consistent effects. Whether for recreational enjoyment or targeted therapeutic benefits, these carts offer a clean and reliable vaping experience.

Now that we know what distillate is, let’s discuss live resin.

Live Resin Carts Explained

Live resin carts are pre-filled vape cartridges containing cannabis oil extracted from flash-frozen plants. This unique extraction method preserves the plant’s original terpene and cannabinoid profile, resulting in a more flavorful and aromatic experience.

Unlike distillates, which strip away many compounds, live resin retains the full spectrum of the fresh cannabis plant, offering a richer and more complex product.

The extraction process begins with cryogenically freezing freshly harvested cannabis to lock in its natural properties.

Solvents like butane or propane are then used to create a concentrated oil that maintains the plant’s original chemical composition. This careful preservation results in a concentrate that is exceptionally rich in terpenes, delivering a complex flavor and aroma that closely mirrors the fresh plant.

Because of its full-spectrum nature, live resin is highly valued by those seeking the "entourage effect," a phenomenon in which cannabinoids and terpenes work together to enhance therapeutic and recreational benefits.

Research suggests that this combination can amplify the effects of cannabis, making live resin an excellent choice for users looking for a more complete and rounded experience.

Now that both distillate and live resin have been covered, let’s find out what sets these concentrates apart.

Key Differences Between Distillate and Live Resin

Though both live resin and distillate are cannabis concentrates used in vaping, their extraction methods, chemical composition, and user experiences vary significantly. Knowing these differences can help you determine which is best for you.

Let’s start by discussing the extraction process of live resin and distillate.

1. Extraction Process

Distillates are produced through a highly refined multi-step process designed to isolate cannabinoids while removing most other plant compounds. The process begins with solvent extraction, where a chemical ethanol or hydrocarbon-based solvent strips cannabinoids from the plant material.

Next, the extract undergoes winterization, removing unwanted fats, waxes, and lipids by exposing the solution to cold temperatures.

Finally, distillation purifies the extract by heating it to separate cannabinoids based on their boiling points. This results in a nearly pure, highly potent product with minimal flavor and aroma, making it an ideal base for adding terpenes or other flavorings.

On the other hand, live resin preserves the plant’s natural terpene and cannabinoid profile by using a specialized low-temperature extraction process. Fresh cannabis plants are flash-frozen immediately after harvest to prevent the degradation of delicate compounds.

The frozen material is then subjected to solvent extraction using hydrocarbons like butane or propane, which helps maintain the plant's original chemical composition.

Because this process avoids excessive heat, the final product is a full-spectrum concentrate that retains the complex flavors, aromas, and effects of the fresh cannabis plant. This makes live resin particularly appealing to those looking to take advantage of the entourage effect produced by the combination of terpenes and cannabinoids.

As you’ll see below, the difference in the production processes of these cannabinoid concentrates also results in a different chemical profile.

2. Chemical Profile

Distillate carts primarily contain isolated cannabinoids, such as THC or CBD, with most other plant compounds removed during processing. This makes them highly potent but significantly reduces their natural flavor and aroma.

While terpenes can be reintroduced after extraction to enhance the taste, the resulting profile is not as complex as that of a full-spectrum extract like live resin. Distillates focus on purity and potency, making them a strong choice for those seeking high THC or CBD concentrations without additional plant compounds.

Live resin carts, on the other hand, retain the full spectrum of cannabinoids and terpenes from the fresh cannabis plant. Because the extraction process preserves these delicate compounds, live resin offers a richer flavor and aroma that closely resembles the original strain, along with the aforementioned entourage effect.

This leads to a difference in effects and overall experience, as detailed below.

3. Effects and Experience

Distillate carts offer a clean, potent high, making them popular for those who prioritize strength over flavor. Since most terpenes and other compounds are stripped away during processing, the experience tends to be straightforward and intense, with effects largely dictated by the isolated cannabinoids.

This makes distillate ideal for users seeking discreet, consistent, and targeted consumption, whether for recreational use or specific therapeutic benefits.

However, because terpenes contribute to the complexity of cannabis effects, the high from distillates may feel more one-dimensional compared to full-spectrum options.

On the other hand, live resin carts provide a more dynamic and well-rounded experience, thanks to the entourage effect. This interaction enhances not just the potency but also the depth and nuance of the high, often leading to a more balanced effect.

Moreover, live resin retains the rich flavors and aromas of the original strain, offering a sensory and immersive vaping experience. As a result, these carts appeal to those who value flavor, complexity, and a fuller spectrum of effects in their cannabis consumption.

With all the differences covered, let’s discuss the main considerations you should consider when choosing between live resin and distillate carts.

Choosing the Right Vape for Your Needs

Choosing between distillate and live resin carts depends on your preferences and consumption goals. Important considerations include potency, flavor, desired effects, and budget, which we discuss below.

Potency and Strength

If you’re looking for the strongest possible high, distillate carts are the way to go. These cartridges often exceed 90% THC, providing an intense and highly concentrated experience.

Live resin carts, while still potent, typically range between 80% and 90% THC but contain a broader mix of cannabinoids and terpenes. This results in a more balanced and full-spectrum effect rather than sheer intensity.

Flavor and Aroma

For those who appreciate authentic cannabis flavor, live resin carts are the better choice. They retain the plant’s natural terpenes, creating a richer, more aromatic experience that resembles the original strain.

Distillate carts, on the other hand, lose most terpenes during refinement. While some manufacturers reintroduce artificial or botanical terpenes, the flavor often lacks the depth and complexity of live resin.

Desired Effects

If you want a straightforward and powerful high, distillate carts provide a clean and potent experience. They are ideal for users seeking strong effects without the influence of terpenes.

However, if you prefer a more nuanced, well-rounded high, live resin carts offer the entourage effect, where cannabinoids and terpenes work in harmony to enhance both therapeutic and recreational benefits. This can lead to a more immersive and dynamic cannabis experience.

Budget and Availability

Distillate carts are generally more affordable and widely available, making them a practical choice for those on a budget.

Live resin carts, however, are more expensive due to their complex extraction process and the use of fresh plant materials. While they offer a premium experience, their cost and availability may be a deciding factor for some users.

The Best Carts for a Complete Experience

A golden live resin and a marijuana bud rest together on a white surface

Now that we’ve covered the basics of distillate vs. live resin carts, let’s examine some of the best vape carts for your needs.

For Creative Inspiration: The Creativity Blend Live Resin 1ml Disposable Vape - Shipwreck

This Shipwreck Live Resin Vape Cart is designed for those seeking inspiration and mental clarity. Made with live resin, it retains the plant’s natural cannabinoids and terpenes, delivering a rich flavor and a more well-rounded effect than standard distillates.

The Shipwreck strain features woody, peppery, and herbaceous notes, creating a bold and refreshing taste.

This vape contains a blend of HHC, Delta 8 THC, CBD, CBG, and Delta 10 THC, offering uplifting and soothing effects.

As a sativa, it promotes creativity, focus, and motivation, making it an excellent choice for artists, writers, and anyone needing a mental boost.

The fully disposable design ensures convenience and ease of use, perfect for on-the-go inspiration. Whether brainstorming ideas or tackling a project, this vape is crafted to enhance productivity and spark creativity.

For a Euphoric Effect: Euphoria Blend 4ml Live Resin Disposable Vape - Chemdawg (Hybrid)

The Euphoria Blend Chemdawg Disposable Vape provides a balanced experience designed to improve both mood and relaxation. Crafted with live resin, this vape preserves the natural terpenes and cannabinoids of the Chemdawg strain, resulting in a bold, earthy, and slightly citrusy flavor.

As a hybrid, it provides a mix of uplifting mental effects and soothing body relaxation, making it ideal for both social settings and winding down.

This vape contains a carefully blended mix of HHC, Delta 8 THC, CBD, CBG, and THCp, working together to deliver a euphoric yet smooth high.

Whether you're looking to boost creativity, enhance your mood, or simply relax without feeling overly sedated, this disposable vape offers a well-rounded and enjoyable experience. With 4ml of premium live resin and a convenient disposable design, it's built for long-lasting enjoyment anytime, anywhere.

For an Energetic Boost: Charged Blend 4ml Live Resin Disposable Vape - Jilly Bean (Hybrid)

The Jilly Bean Live Resin Disposable Vape delivers an energizing and flavorful experience in a convenient, long-lasting format. Made with live resin, this vape features a sweet, citrusy, and tropical flavor profile reminiscent of mango and oranges.

This hybrid strain's uplifting effects make it perfect for those looking to add a little extra pep to their day.

Formulated with HHC, H4CBD, CBG, and THCv, this blend is designed to enhance focus, mood, and motivation while keeping you clear-headed.

The 4ml disposable design provides twice the amount of live resin compared to standard vapes, ensuring a longer-lasting and more enjoyable experience.

For a Good Night’s Sleep: Dream Blend 4ml Live Resin Disposable Vape - GG5 (Hybrid)

The Dream Blend 4ml Live Resin Disposable Vape is made for those looking for a deeply relaxing and euphoric experience.

This live resin vape contains the full spectrum of cannabinoids and terpenes from the GG5 strain, a hybrid known for its calming effects and smooth, earthy flavor. This makes it an excellent choice for unwinding after a long day or preparing for a restful night.

Infused with a blend of Delta 8 THC, HHC, CBN, CBG, and THCp, this vape promotes relaxation while maintaining mental clarity. The GG5 strain’s sedative properties make it particularly well-suited for those struggling with sleep or looking for a stress-relieving escape.

Alternative Options to Vaping

Cannabis isn't confined to vaping alone, and if you’d rather consume cannabis orally rather than inhaling it, edibles are your best bet.

Edibles present a different experience with effects that linger and offer a more discreet way to enjoy cannabinoids. Edibles, although their effects may take up to two hours to kick in, are also much longer lasting and produce a more potent and intense effect.

Products like Delta 9 Live Resin Blue Razz Rings combine potency and flavor, providing a solid choice for those who prefer not to vape. These gummies are infused with live resin, delivering a balanced cannabinoid profile with a delicious blue raspberry taste.

Why Choose Mellow Fellow for Your Cannabis Concentrates?

At Mellow Fellow, we take pride in crafting high-quality, reliable, and consistent cannabinoid concentrates. Our commitment to excellence goes beyond just making great products. We hold ourselves to the highest industry standards, ensuring every customer enjoys a premium experience.

Our Quality and Safety Guarantees

Here at Mellow Fellow, we guarantee the quality of our products in more ways than one, with thorough lab testing and scientifically informed formulations being at the forefront.

Thorough Lab Testing

We believe in full transparency, which is why every batch of our concentrates undergoes independent lab testing.

These tests confirm potency, purity, and ensure there are no contaminants like pesticides, residual solvents, or heavy metals. Our lab results are always accessible, so you know exactly what’s in your product.

Scientifically Informed Formulations

Our products are carefully crafted based on the latest scientific research. We develop precise cannabinoid blends designed to deliver consistent and reliable effects, whether you're looking for relaxation, focus, or an uplifting experience.

Premium Hardware for a Superior Experience

We don’t cut corners when it comes to vaporizers and cartridges. Our hardware is built with durable, leak-resistant materials, ensuring smooth and consistent performance every time you vape. A great concentrate deserves a great delivery system, and that’s exactly what we provide.

Final Thoughts on Distillate vs Live Resin Carts

Ultimately, choosing between distillate and live resin carts depends on your preferences, desired effects, and budget. Distillate carts may be your best option if you prioritize high potency, a clean and discreet high, and affordability.

With THC levels exceeding 90%, they deliver a powerful yet straightforward experience that is easy to dose and widely available.

However, for those who value flavor, aroma, and a more balanced cannabinoid experience, live resin carts offer a full-spectrum effect that captures the richness of the original cannabis plant. Both have their benefits, so consider all of the factors before making a choice.

Whether you’re looking for a maximum potency or a balanced approach, Mellow Fellow has a wide range of premium cannabinoid products ready for you to try.

Frequently Asked Questions

Live Resin vs. Distillate, Which Gets You Higher?

The answer depends on what you mean by "higher." Distillate carts provide a more intense and direct THC hit, while live resin carts create a more immersive and well-rounded effect due to the entourage effect.

Distillate vs Live Resin Cart Which Is Better?

That depends on what you’re looking for. If potency is your goal, go for distillate carts. If you want a complex, flavorful experience, choose live resin carts.

Are Distillate Carts Good for Beginners?

Yes, distillate carts can be a good option for beginners because they provide a clean and predictable experience with precise dosing. However, due to their high potency, new users should start with a low dose to avoid overwhelming effects.

Do Live Resin Carts Last Longer Than Distillate Carts?

Not necessarily. Distillate carts tend to last longer because they contain higher concentrations of cannabinoids, meaning users may need fewer puffs to feel the effects. However, live resin carts offer a more balanced experience, which some users may find more satisfying at lower doses.

How Does the High from a Distillate Cart vs Live Resin Differ?

The high from distillate carts is often strong, fast-acting, and intense, focusing primarily on THC effects. In contrast, live resin carts provide a more nuanced experience, thanks to terpenes and additional cannabinoids, which enhance relaxation, mood, and overall enjoyment.

Why Do Some People on Reddit Prefer Live Resin Over Distillate?

Discussions on distillate cart vs live resin Reddit threads suggest that many users prefer live resin carts because they retain terpenes and provide a richer, more flavorful experience. However, some still opt for distillates for their potency, affordability, and ease of use.