Cannabis vaporizers have come a long way since the launch of the Volcano Vaporizer by Storz & Bickel in 2000. As concentrates become an increasingly popular alternative to dry flower, technology and the devices in the market have adapted accordingly. Concentrate vaporizers including electronic dab rigs (aka e-rigs) now comprise a major and fast-growing category, and some of the most consistently well-reviewed devices come from the Las-Vegas based brand Dr. Dabber.
Now, after six years, Dr. Dabber has refreshed the Switch, its flagship induction-based vaporizer. The Switch 2 sports a new look resembling a 9 inch tall coffee maker. The induction-based heating not only ensures perfectly uniform heating from all sides of the chamber, free of hotspots that produce harshness, but is also far less prone to failure than resistive-heating atomisers.
The temperature control is further refined by the new and patented IR sensor technology, claimed to be unique in the industry. This enables ultra-precise control over heating temperatures, helping to prevent combustion and preserve flavour.
That precision comes handy for another new feature: Dynamic Heating Modes. These three preset heating curves ensure that optimum temperature is maintained during use. The default Descent Mode simulates traditional torch dabbing by dropping the temperature through each draw, while Ascent and Steady modes keep it rising or stable, to preserve flavourful terpenes for longer.
The heat-up time is 5-15 seconds (depending on settings), and the built-in battery is good for 50 heat cycles on a charge. For those seeking stronger effects, the included 20 mm quartz insert now offers 300% larger dabbing volume that can hold a full gram of load.
While the on-device buttons allow switching heating modes and adjusting temperatures, more comprehensive control is enabled through the Dr. Dabber mobile app. This opens up full customisation of the modes, session times and even the LED colours on the device. The app also shows real-time temperature readings, battery levels and tracks consumption with detailed usage insights.
As a premium device, the Dr. Dabber Switch 2 is priced at $420 (subtle nod to cannabis culture acknowledged), and is available to order from the company’s website. A two year warranty for the battery, charger, and electrical components is also included.
Those with a more old-school inclination can pick up the Mamba 1g electric portable herb grinder on Amazon.
Dr. Dabber