Bongs

When using with wax, oils, and dabs, we recommend opting for a glass dab rig, as these are designed to maximize flavor and are perfect for concentrates.

What Is a Bong?

Bongs (A type of water pipe) have been a popular smoking tool for centuries, widely used for smoking dry herbs, flowers, and tobacco, and sometimes referred to as “weed bongs.” Their unique water filtration design not only makes the smoke cooler and smoother, reducing throat irritation, but also effectively removes impurities, earning them the name “water bongs” as well. Whether you’re a smoking novice or a seasoned pro, a bong offers a gentler, more enjoyable smoking experience.

18 Different Types of Bongs

When it comes to choosing the right bong, understanding the characteristics and advantages of each type can help you find the product that best suits your needs. We’ll introduce you to several popular water pipe categories, from the classic beaker bottom design to efficient percolator bongs, and even the innovative gravity bongs. Each type has its own unique features and smoking experience. By exploring these options, you’ll be able to better understand the benefits of each bong and select the one that fits your personal style and needs.

1. Beaker Bong: Classic Design with Stability

The beaker bong is a classic type of water pipe, featuring a wide base that resembles a laboratory beaker, hence the name. This design not only provides greater stability during use but also allows for more water capacity, enhancing the filtration process. Smoke filtered through water becomes smoother and cooler, reducing throat irritation.

Who It’s For: If you enjoy a smooth smoking experience and want to minimize throat irritation, the beaker bong is a great choice. It’s ideal for beginners and also perfect for those who like to smoke for longer periods or seek big, flavorful hits.

2. Straight Tube Bong: Simple Yet Powerful

As the name suggests, it consists of a straight tube, usually made of glass. Unlike more complex designs, the straight tube allows smoke to pass directly through the water, offering a more direct and intense hit. The short, direct path makes for a smooth and powerful smoke.

Who It’s For: If you prefer a more direct and speedy hit with strong, intense smoke, and don’t want to spend too much time on cleaning, the straight tube bong is definitely your ideal choice.

3. Bubble Base Bong: A Classic Blend of Style and Balance

The bubble bottom bong is a classic and retro design, featuring a spherical or bubble-like base. This bubble base not only looks great but also increases the water capacity. This means that the smoke is more thoroughly cooled as it passes through the water, resulting in a smoother smoking experience.

Who It’s For: If you enjoy a vintage look and a smooth, less throat-irritating smoke, the bubble bottom bong might be perfect for you.

4. Percolator Bong: The Ultimate Smoke Purifier

What is a percolator bong? Simply put, it features a device known as a percolator inside. This device disperses the smoke into smaller bubbles, allowing for multiple stages of filtration through the water. The result? Cooler smoke with impurities further filtered out, making each hit smoother and purer.

Percolators come in various designs, such as honeycomb and tree, each offering different filtration effects and visual appeal. Regardless of the type, the goal is to make every puff more comfortable and reduce throat irritation.

Who It’s For: Percolator bongs are perfect for those who want a more comfortable and cooler smoking experience. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced user, if you have high expectations for smoothness and cooling, a percolator water bong is definitely worth trying.

5. Recycler Bongs

The recycler bong is a uniquely designed bong aimed at providing a cleaner and smoother smoking experience. Its key feature is the “recycling” function—during use, smoke continuously cycles through multiple chambers and filtration systems. As the smoke is filtered through water, unused water is recirculated to the bottom of the bong while the smoke continues to the lungs. This design not only cools the smoke more thoroughly but also reduces impurities and irritation, making every hit smoother.

Who It’s For: It’s especially suited for frequent smokers who seek a high-quality experience, as the recycler bong ensures each session delivers pure and cool smoke. Despite its complex structure, it offers a smoother and more comfortable experience than standard water pipes. Additionally, the visual appeal of the water’s circulation adds a unique interactive element to the smoking process.

6. Ice Bong: A Chill Smoking Experience

The Ice Bong is designed specifically to cool the smoke, featuring an “ice catcher” or “ice pinches” inside that allows you to place ice cubes. As you inhale, the smoke passes over the ice, significantly lowering its temperature and reducing throat and lung irritation, leading to a smoother, cooler smoking experience. This design is quite popular, and most bongs now come with ice catchers.

Who It’s For: The Ice Bong is ideal for those who want to minimize the harshness of smoking, especially if you’re sensitive to smoke or have a throat that easily gets irritated. If you’re after a refreshing and smooth smoking experience with a gentler touch, the Ice water bong will be your perfect choice.

The above are some commonly used bongs in daily life. When you become an advanced smoker or are already an experienced smoker, you can explore some special designs below.

7. Gravity Bong: Powerful and Fun Smoke Hits

The gravity bong ( also known as a GB, bucket bong, grav, geeb, gibby, yoin, or ghetto bong) uses the principle of gravity to create a powerful smoking experience by combining water and smoke through an up-and-down flipping motion. Users adjust the water level to a certain height, then rapidly lift and lower the bong to draw in thick smoke. This design not only delivers a substantial amount of smoke but also ensures that each inhale is intensely satisfying.

Ideal For: Those who enjoy a strong, direct smoke experience and a fun, interactive way of smoking.

8. Double Chamber Bongs

Double chamber bongs feature two separate chambers, each equipped with its own water filtration system. With smoke being filtered twice, harshness is reduced, providing a cleaner and smoother hit. Although the design can be more complex and challenging to clean, the benefits of improved filtration are well worth it.

Ideal For: Experienced smokers who value smoothness and seek a high-quality, filtered experience with minimal harshness.

9. Double Headed Bong

A double-headed bong features two smoking pipes, allowing two users to smoke simultaneously or for a single user to choose between two different smoking styles. Each pipe often has its own independent filtration system, ensuring a consistent smoking experience for each user. They are also well-suited for unique social smoking experiences.

Ideal For: Those who enjoy sharing their smoking time with others or need versatile smoking options.

10. Bent Neck Bong: Comfort with a Twist

The Bent Neck Bong features a curved neck design, allowing users to adopt a more natural posture and reducing neck strain during use. This curve also helps guide the smoke more smoothly through the water, providing a more comfortable smoking experience.

Ideal for: Those who prefer a comfortable smoking posture or need to ease physical strain during use.

11. Stemless Bong: Simplified and Efficient

The Stemless Bong skips the traditional stem, using a direct water filtration system instead. This design is clean and straightforward, reducing parts and enhancing smoke flow and filtration efficiency. Its simple structure also makes it easier to clean.

Ideal for: Users who appreciate a minimalist design and efficient filtration, especially those who value easy maintenance and high performance.

12. Bongs with Carbs: Control Your Smoke

Bongs with carbs have a small hole in the pipe to control airflow and smoke release. This design lets you cover the carb with your finger while smoking, adjusting the intensity and effect of each hit. It offers a greater sense of control and customization.

Ideal for: Smokers who like to manage smoke flow and customize their smoking experience.

13. Hammer Bong: Sturdy with a Unique Grip

The Hammer Bong gets its name from its hammer-like shape, with a wider base resembling a hammer handle. These bongs are usually robust and durable, providing stable support and a large water chamber for powerful smoke sessions. The shape also offers a comfortable grip.

Ideal for: Users who enjoy a stable base, distinctive design, and powerful smoke.

14. Modular Bong: Customize Your Smoke

Modular Bongs are made of detachable parts, allowing users to adjust the bong’s structure to their liking. You can add or remove components like different filters, mouthpieces, or water chambers to tailor your smoking experience. This design offers immense flexibility and customization.

Ideal for: Those who enjoy personalizing their smoking setup and experimenting with different features.

15. Dangle Bong: Hang and Smoke

The Dangle Bong features a design that allows it to hang, often with hooks or straps, letting you easily mount it on walls or other surfaces. This space-saving design also adds a fun element to your smoking routine. The smoke typically passes through multiple filters in a vertical orientation.

Ideal for: Users who want to save space and enjoy a unique smoking method.

16. Zong Bong: Bold and Smooth

The Zong Bong features a zigzagging tube that looks like the letter “Z,” creating a longer airflow path. This design helps cool the smoke more effectively, reducing harshness. It’s not only functional but also visually striking.

Ideal for: Those who want a unique look and prefer cooler, smoother smoke.

17. Freeze Pipe Bong: Ice-Cold Hits

The Freeze Pipe Bong includes a cooling coil inside, which chills the smoke as it passes through. For the best results, the condenser is usually frozen before use to enhance the cooling effect.

Ideal for: Smokers who crave extremely cool smoke and maximum cooling performance.

18. Dab Rig: Concentrate Master

The Dab Rig is designed for vaporizing concentrates rather than dry herbs and flowers. It typically comes with a heater and titanium nail, offering quick heating and cooling for a clean, potent vapor experience.

Ideal for: Users who enjoy concentrates and want a pure, intense vapor experience.

What Are the Material Options for Bongs?

When choosing a bong, the material plays a crucial role in its performance and your overall experience. If you’re unsure which material suits you best, here’s a breakdown of common bong materials and their characteristics. Let’s dive into the details of glass, silicone, acrylic, and plastic bongs, along with a brief look at some other materials.

1. Glass Bongs: Crystal Clear and Pure

Glass bongs are a popular choice due to their transparency and clean taste. Made from high-quality borosilicate glass, they ensure that the smoke is pure and free of any unwanted flavors. They are easy to clean and come in various designs , making them ideal for those who enjoy watching the smoke and seeking a premium smoking experience.

2. Silicone Bongs: Durable and Portable

Silicone bongs are made from flexible, food-grade silicone, making them highly durable and resistant to breaking. They are often portable, easy to fold, and store, making them perfect for outdoor use and travel.

3. Acrylic Bongs: Lightweight and Affordable

Acrylic bongs are crafted from a clear, weather-resistant plastic material known as acrylic. While they might not offer the same purity as glass, they are lightweight and budget-friendly. They are a good option for those looking for an economical bong with some personality.

4. Other Unique Materials

Besides the common glass, silicone, acrylic, and plastic bongs, there are some unique materials worth mentioning. Although less common, these materials are often favored by collectors for their distinctiveness and aesthetic appeal. They include crystal, resin, ceramic, bamboo, metal (steel), soft glass, quartz, wood, jade, and titanium. These materials offer different styles and functionalities, catering to various needs and personal preferences.

Choosing the Right Glass Bong: Understanding Glass Thickness and Its Impact on Durability

When choosing a glass bong, the thickness of the glass is a crucial factor. It directly impacts the bong’s durability and your overall experience. Here’s a breakdown of different glass thicknesses to help you make an informed decision.

How Many Glass Thickness Options Are There for Bongs?

Glass water pipes are usually measured in millimeters (mm), and they fall into these categories:

1. Standard Thickness Bongs (4 mm and 5 mm)

Standard thickness bongs, typically ranging from 4 mm to 5 mm, are the most common and offer a balance between durability and ease of use. They are lightweight, making them easy to handle and transport, which is ideal for everyday smokers. While they can withstand regular use, they are still relatively thin, meaning they may be more prone to breaking if accidentally dropped or knocked over.

2. Heavy-Duty Glass Bongs (7 mm and 9 mm)

For those looking for something sturdier,  heavy-duty glass bongs in the 7 mm to 9 mm range provide significantly more durability. These thick glass bongs are often marketed as “unbreakable” due to their resistance to minor impacts, making them a great choice for smokers who prioritize longevity. The added thickness also provides better insulation, helping to cool down smoke more effectively for a smoother hit. However, these bongs are heavier, less portable, and typically come at a higher price point. Despite the extra weight, many users prefer thick glass bongs for their superior sturdiness and premium feel.

Which Glass Thickness is Right for You?

When selecting a glass water bong, there’s no single “best thickness” that fits everyone. The right choice depends on your personal needs and how you plan to use your bong.

• Durability: If you move your weed bong frequently or worry about accidental drops, heavy-duty glass is a safer choice.
• Portability: If you want a bong that’s light and easy to carry, go for the standard thickness.
• Budget: Standard thickness bongs are usually more affordable.
• Usage Environment: For outdoor use or harsher conditions, heavy-duty glass offers better resilience.

Whether you opt for a standard or heavy-duty bong depends on your smoking habits and lifestyle. If portability and affordability are your main concerns, a 4 mm or 5 mm glass bong may be the best choice. If you want a long-lasting, high-quality piece that can withstand accidental bumps, investing in a 7 mm or 9 mm thick bong is well worth it.

Which Size Bong/Water Pipe Should I Choose?

Water bongs come in various sizes, each offering a different experience. If you’re new to the world of bongs, picking the right size might seem overwhelming. Don’t worry! Here’s a quick guide to help you find the size that fits your needs best.

How Many Sizes Are There for Water Bongs?

Water bongs come in a wide range of sizes, from 3 inches to 22 inches. Typically, they are categorized into small, standard, large, and extra-large sizes. Each size offers a unique smoking experience, catering to different preferences and situations.

1. Mini Bongs – 10 Inches or Smaller

• Features: Compact and easy to carry, perfect for quick, on-the-go sessions.
• Ideal For: Users who value convenience and discretion, especially those who like to have their bong handy.
• Drawbacks: Smaller smoke volume and less draw resistance.

2. Standard Bongs – 10 to 13 Inches Tall

• Features: Offers a good balance between portability and performance. Comfortable to hold and provides a smooth smoking experience, great for solo use or small gatherings.
• Ideal For: Most users.
• Drawbacks: Slightly less portable compared to mini bongs.

3. Large & Big Bongs – 14 to 18 Inches Tall

• Features: Produces dense, voluminous smoke. Often equipped with multiple percolators and larger water chambers for enhanced cooling and filtration.
• Ideal For: Those who enjoy powerful smoking sessions and sharing with friends.
• Drawbacks: Less portable and can be harder to clean.

4. Extra-Large Bongs – 18 Inches or Taller

• Features: Provides intense pull and dense smoke, suitable for professionals and large parties. Some are even as tall as 6 feet.
• Best For: Users seeking an extreme smoking experience.

Does The Size Of The Bong Affect The Smoking Experience?

Yes, the size of the bong does play a role in your overall smoking experience. Larger bongs tend to offer bigger, smoother hits because they provide more space for smoke to travel through, allowing for better filtration and cooling. However, they also require more lung capacity to pull the smoke, which might be challenging for some users. On the other hand, smaller bongs are more portable and easy to use, offering quicker, more concentrated hits. While the hits might be stronger, the filtration is not as thorough as with larger bongs, so the smoke may be harsher.

Selecting the perfect glass bong size is all about personal preference. There’s no right or wrong answer. It’s all about finding the one that makes your smoking sessions more enjoyable.

What Should I Consider When Choosing The Right Bong For A Beginner?

Choosing the right bong can be overwhelming for beginners, but it doesn’t have to be. When purchasing a bong, there are several key factors to keep in mind to ensure you find one that fits your needs and preferences.

What Should Beginners Consider When Choosing the Right Bong?

Choosing the right bong can be overwhelming for beginners, but it doesn’t have to be. When purchasing a bong, there are several key factors to keep in mind to ensure you find one that fits your needs and preferences.

1. What Are You Smoking? (Herb vs. Concentrates)

Before picking a bong, consider your primary substance. If you’re smoking herbs, you’ll need a bowl. For concentrates, you’ll need a dab nail and dab tool, and smaller bongs or dedicated dab rigs are typically the better choice for concentrates. Choosing a bong based on your preferred substance ensures a better experience and more effective performance.

2. What Features Do You Want?

Think about the specific features you’re looking for. The type of bong you choose often depends on functionality. Popular options for beginners include:

• Beaker Bongs: Known for their stability and smooth smoking experience.

• Percolator Bongs: These offer better filtration for smoother hits. Choose a bong that suits your smoking style for optimal performance and enjoyment.

3. What’s Your Style Preference?

Bongs come in various shapes, sizes, and designs. Whether you’re looking for something stylish or themed, there’s a bong out there that fits your personality. From sleek cool bongs to cute pink bongs or even novelty pieces like Hello Kitty bongs or Rick and Morty bongs, there’s no shortage of choices to match your style.

4. What Material Do You Prefer?

The material of your bong plays a big role in its overall performance and durability:

• Glass Bongs: Glass is the most popular choice, known for its clean, pure taste and aesthetic appeal. It’s also easy to clean and maintain.

• Silicone Bongs: These are perfect for outdoor use due to their durability and portability. Silicone bongs are resistant to breakage and offer a more flexible option.

5. Does Joint Size Matter?

Joint size affects the compatibility of your bong with various accessories. Common joint sizes are 10mm, 14mm, and 18mm, with male and female joints. For beginners, the joint size isn’t something to worry about too much, as most bongs come with an 18mm female joint for compatibility and ease of use. When purchasing from Smoke Meg, we will guide you to the right downstem and bowl alternatives for each product to ensure the best experience.

6. What’s Your Budget?

Your budget plays an essential role in choosing the right bong. Entry-level pieces typically range from $30 to $50, while premium options can go for several hundred or even thousands of dollars. If you’re looking for affordable options, we offer cheap bongs that perform well and are budget-friendly. Additionally, we also offer discounted high-quality bongs and dab rigs with minor cosmetic flaws, allowing you to enjoy premium pieces at a lower cost. Be sure to choose a bong that fits your budget while ensuring the quality and features match your preferences.

General FAQ’s

For those new to bongs, you probably have a lot of questions. No worries, we’ve got you covered! Here, we’ll answer some of the most common questions to help you better understand how bongs work, how to use them, and how to keep them clean.

1. Parts of a Bong

A bong consists of several key components, each contributing to the overall smoking experience. At its core, you have the mouthpiece, where you inhale, and the bowl, which holds your herbs. Connecting them is the downstem, which channels smoke into the water for filtration. The joint ensures an airtight connection between these parts.

For a smoother and cooler hit, many bongs feature percolators, which further diffuse the smoke, and an ice catcher, designed to hold ice cubes for extra cooling. To prevent unwanted splashback, some models include a splash guard, while an ash catcher helps keep your bong cleaner for longer.

Whether you’re looking for a simple setup or a bong with advanced filtration, understanding these parts can help you find the perfect piece. Learn more in our detailed guide: The Anatomy of a Bong.