Cheap Bongs: Are They Worth It?

Posted on by

For many smokers, a bong is an essential piece of gear, but not everyone wants to spend hundreds of dollars on a high-end piece. Cheap bongs can be a great way to enjoy smooth hits without breaking the bank, but are they really worth it? Let’s break it down.

Pros and Cons of Cheap Bongs

Pros:

  1. Affordable: The biggest advantage is, of course, the price. Cheap bongs usually range from $10 to $50, making them accessible for beginners and casual users.
  2. Easily Replaceable: If you accidentally break a cheap bong, it’s not a huge financial loss.
  3. Wide Variety: You can find cheap bongs in different styles, from simple straight tubes to beakers and even novelty designs.
  4. Portable: Smaller, inexpensive bongs are great for travel and outdoor sessions where a high-end piece might be too risky to carry.

Cons:

  1. Lower-Quality Materials: Many cheap bongs are made from thin glass, acrylic, or silicone, which may not provide the same experience as high-quality borosilicate glass.
  2. Less Durability: Cheap glass bongs are more likely to break compared to premium options.
  3. Inferior Filtration: Budget bongs often lack percolators or advanced filtration, leading to harsher hits.
  4. Limited Aesthetics: If you care about craftsmanship, cheap bongs may not meet your standards in terms of design and uniqueness.

What to Look for in a Cheap Bong

Not all cheap bongs are junk. Here are some key factors to consider when shopping for an affordable but reliable bong:

  1. Material Matters
    • Borosilicate Glass: Some budget-friendly options use borosilicate glass, which is more heat-resistant and durable.
    • Silicone: Virtually unbreakable and great for travel, though it may slightly alter the taste.
    • Acrylic: The cheapest option but can impact flavor and overall smoking experience.
  2. Design Simplicity
    • A simple beaker or straight tube design is often more durable and functional than complex, cheap percolators that clog easily.
  3. Downstem and Bowl Quality
    • Some cheap bongs come with plastic or low-grade metal downstems, which can affect the taste. Try to get one with a glass or high-quality metal downstem if possible.
  4. Size Considerations
    • If you need portability, go for a smaller, travel-friendly option.
    • If you want bigger hits, a larger beaker or straight tube bong is better.

Recommended Cheap Bong Brands and Models

If you’re looking for reliable, budget-friendly bongs, consider these options:

  • GRAV Mini Beaker – Affordable, borosilicate glass, and well-designed.
  • EHLE. Glass Bongs – German craftsmanship at a lower price.
  • Silicone Bongs by Eyce – Great for durability and travel.
  • Acrylic Bongs from Headshops – Cheap and functional but not ideal for flavor purists.
  • Amazon & DHgate No-Brand Glass Bongs – Some hidden gems can be found, but quality varies.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy a Cheap Bong?

If you’re new to bongs or need a backup piece, a cheap bong is definitely worth considering. Just be mindful of the materials and construction to ensure you get the best experience possible for your budget. If you’re serious about smooth, flavorful hits, you might want to save up for a mid-range piece. But for casual or travel use, a well-chosen cheap bong can absolutely get the job done!