Cannabis concentrates are made by separating the cannabinoids and terpenes from plant material, leaving behind a highly potent extract. THC levels typically run between 60% and 90%, which is significantly higher than flower. If flower is the starting point, concentrates are what happens when you strip everything back to just the good stuff.
Types of Cannabis Concentrates We Carry
Where concentrates differ is in how they’re made and the texture that results, and that matters because it affects flavor, potency, and how you consume them. They are either solvent-based or solventless.
- Solvent-based concentrates: Use chemical solvents like butane, propane, or CO2 to strip compounds from the plant, resulting in a spectrum of textures, from liquid to shatters.
- Solventless concentrates: Rely solely on physical and mechanical methods, like ice, water, heat, or pressure, resulting in a dough-like texture.
At Quality Roots, we carry a wide selection of both at our dispensary locations across Michigan and New Jersey.
- Budder and badder: Soft, creamy extracts made with hydrocarbon solvents. Easy to scoop, stable at room temperature, and one of the most beginner-friendly textures.
- Sauce: Wet, crystalline concentrate with strong terpene content. It’s often combined with diamonds to balance potency and taste.
- Live resin: Made from fresh-frozen cannabis to lock in more terpenes than standard extracts. It’s a step up in the solvent-based category and a popular choice for those who prioritize taste and a more complete cannabinoid profile.
- Wax: A classic solvent-based extract with a soft, crumbly texture. It’s easy to handle and a good starting point for those new to concentrates.
- Shatter: Hard, glass-like concentrate that snaps when cold. Clean, potent, and one of the purest-looking forms of solvent-based extract with a long shelf life.
- RSO (Rick Simpson Oil): Full-spectrum, high-potency ethanol extract. One of the most complete extracts available and frequently sought out by medical patients.
- Hash: One of the oldest concentrates around, with trichomes separated and compressed mechanically. Approachable, flavorful, and a solid intro into solventless concentrates.
- Rosin and live rosin: Solventless concentrates made using heat and pressure. One of the cleanest, most terpene-rich extracts out there. Live rosin, made from fresh-frozen flower, sits at the top of the solventless pyramid.
How to Choose the Right Cannabis Concentrate
Concentrates aren’t the place to start if you’re brand new to cannabis. The potency is a different league from pre-rolls, and even some edibles and tinctures. There’s a learning curve, too. But for experienced consumers looking to go deeper, that’s part of the appeal.
If you’re new to dabs, badder is a solid and approachable entry point. It’s got good potency, it’s easy to work with, and it’s priced for everyday use. If flavor is what you're after, live resin delivers a noticeably richer experience, while also being beginner-friendly.
Those looking for a premium dab usually choose live rosin. It's got the cleanest extraction process, the fullest terpene profile, and the most plant-authentic experience.
To make the choice easier for you, we organize the concentrates by effect:
- Lifted: For an energizing, head-focused session.
- Balanced: For hybrid effects of indica and sativa.
- Grounded: For evenings when you want to unwind.
Need Help Choosing? Drop By Your Nearest Dispensary
New to concentrates and not sure where to land? Stop by your nearest Quality Root location. Our staff can walk you through the options without the jargon. We welcome adults 21+ to browse and order online for in-store pickup at any location. Keep an eye on our deals page and clearance section for rotating discounts, and join our rewards program to save an average of 15% on orders over time.