What Is the Difference Between Shatter, Wax, and Live Resin?

Shatter vs Wax vs Live Resin: Key Differences Explained

Shatter, wax, and live resin are all cannabis concentrates that differ mainly in texture, extraction method, and flavour profile. Shatter is glass-like and brittle with high potency, wax is soft and crumbly with easier handling, and live resin is made from fresh-frozen cannabis, preserving the most terpenes and flavour.

Understanding Cannabis Concentrates

Cannabis concentrates are potent extracts of the plant’s cannabinoids and terpenes. They deliver stronger effects than flowers because unwanted plant material is removed, leaving behind a concentrated form of THC, CBD, and flavour compounds.

Shatter

• Texture: Glass-like, translucent, brittle

• Potency: Very high THC content

• Use Case: Popular with experienced users seeking clean, strong hits

• Pros: Long shelf life, pure consistency

• Cons: Can be tricky to handle and dose

Wax

• Texture: Soft, opaque, crumbly (sometimes called budder or crumble)

• Potency: Strong, slightly less stable than shatter

• Use Case: Easier for dabbing and handling than shatter

• Pros: Convenient, flexible, easy to use

• Cons: Can degrade faster if not stored properly

Live Resin

• Texture: Saucy or sticky with crystals suspended in terpene-rich liquid

• Potency: High THC but prized more for terpene preservation

• Use Case: For flavour seekers and users who want the closest taste to the live plant

• Pros: Rich aroma, full-spectrum experience

• Cons: Usually more expensive due to complex extraction

Quick Comparison Table

Final Takeaway

If you value potency and purity, go with shatter. If you prefer ease of use, wax is better. For flavour and terpene richness, live resin stands out.

FAQs About Shatter, Wax, and Live Resin

Which concentrate is best for beginners?
Wax is generally the most beginner-friendly because it’s easier to handle and dose than shatter. Live resin can also be approachable for those who prefer flavour over raw potency.

Does live resin get you higher than shatter?
Not necessarily. Shatter often has a slightly higher THC percentage, while live resin provides a fuller “entourage effect” thanks to its terpene content. The experience feels different rather than stronger.

How do you store shatter, wax, and live resin?
All concentrates should be kept in airtight containers in a cool, dark place. Shatter stores best in parchment or silicone, wax benefits from glass jars, and live resin is best refrigerated to preserve terpenes.

Is live resin more expensive than wax or shatter?
Yes. Live resin typically costs more because it’s made from fresh-frozen cannabis using a more complex extraction process that preserves terpenes.

Can you dab all three concentrates?
Yes. Shatter, wax, and live resin are all commonly consumed through dabbing, though live resin is also enjoyed in vape cartridges for convenience.