Rosin vs Resin: What’s the Difference?

One of the most interesting things about the cannabis plant is its versatility. There are lots of different cannabis products out there and many ways for people to consume cannabis, and cannabis extracts like rosin and resin can offer some of the most intense and effective experiences.
But what exactly is the difference between live resin and rosin? And how do rosin vs resin compare to one another? In this live rosin vs resin guide, we’ll cover all you need to know about these two cannabis concentrates, including definitions, how to use rosin vs resin, and our view on which product is better.

What Does It Mean When Rosin and Resin Are Live?

When talking about rosin and resin, you might hear people refer to these extracts as “live”, but what does that actually mean? Well, in simple terms, live rosin or resin concentrates are those that have gone through the extraction process using very fresh plant matter. This is different from non-live or standard concentrates, which are extracted from the dried flower.
Why would it be better to extract a cannabis product like rosin or resin from freshly harvested plant material? Well, experts say that using live or fresh plant matter results in extracts that are more flavorful and aromatic. Not only that but it’s also said that live rosin and resin contain higher levels of cannabis terpenes.

Rosin vs Resin: The Difference

So, what’s the difference between live resin and rosin? How do these two products compare? Well, rosin and resin do have some obvious similarities. They’re similar forms of cannabis extracts that are potent in nature. However, the main difference between them is their extraction method.
Resin is extracted using chemical solvents, which may include the likes of butane or propane, while rosin production is different; with cannabis rosin, a rosin press is used to extract the concentrate, without the use of any kind of solvent. So, if you’re looking for solventless extracts, rosin is the way to go.
Another big difference between rosin vs resin is the speed at which they can be produced. Due to the use of solvents, it’s actually a lot faster to extract resin compared to rosin. In fact, if you look at a typical hour of work, it’s possible to extract 20x more cannabis rosin than resin.

What Is Live Resin?

Live resin is a kind of cannabis extract that is made with the aid of solvents like butane. The solvents are passed over the plant matter at high levels of pressure in order to draw out the extract, which is a kind of sticky, yellowish liquid. The liquid then dries into an amber-colored concentrate.

How Do You Use It?

The most popular method of resin consumption is dabbing. This involves the use of a dab rig to use very high temperatures to essentially vaporize the resin before it can be inhaled. Other methods include the usage of a portable vaporizer, and it’s even possible to add resin to joints or to top off some flowers in a bong or pipe.

Why Is It Popular?

A lot of people enjoy resin due to its very rich and intense taste and aroma, as well as the powerful effects it can produce in small quantities. It’s also generally quite affordable when compared to other extracts, like rosin.

Resin Production, Characteristics, Flavor

Resin production always involves the use of solvents, so it can be tricky to do at home. The final product is bright, colorful, and quite soft, being almost sugar-like in its texture due to its unique terpene profile. It also has an intense flavor profile, especially when made with live plant matter.

What Is Live Rosin?

Live rosin is similar to resin in many ways, as it’s also an extract and has similar color and usage methods. However, it’s slightly different, as no solvents are used in the extraction process. Instead, simple pressure and heat are used to draw this extract out, resulting in a final product with an amber color that can vary in consistency and may be sold in wax, badder, shatter, or taffy forms.

How Do You Use It?

Rosin is used in the same way as resin. The most popular and common way to consume it is with a dab rig which heats the extract and vaporizes it. You can also use other vaporizer devices to inhale this extract, or you can sprinkle some rosin in with your flower when preparing pipes or joints.

Why Is It Popular?

Many people enjoy the versatility of rosin, as well as its pure and intense nature. It can be very aromatic and enjoyable to use, although it is more expensive than resin and is often considered more of a luxury cannabis product by people who consume cannabis.

Rosin Production, Characteristics, Flavor

Rosin production doesn’t involve the use of solvents, so it can be easier for people to try at home. The final product may vary in consistency, usually appearing quite soft and creamy in texture. It usually has a flavor and aroma just like the original plant material used to make it.

Rosin vs. Resin: Which One Is Better?

So, when it comes to rosin vs resin, we can see that these extracts have a few things in common, as well as some clear differences. Which one is best? Well, it’s possible to make arguments in favor of both live rosin vs resin.
Rosin has the advantage of being made in a solvent-free way, for example, but resin is much more accessible and affordable for buyers on a budget. Ultimately, the right option for you will depend on your tastes and needs.
If you’d like to learn more about cannabis extracts, the team at your local marijuana dispensary in Portland is ready to help. Contact us today with any questions.