This is a question that’s very common for new cannabis users – no need for embarrassment. While much about weed has changed since it was first made illegal back in the 1930s, typical measurements are still pretty much the same.

Even though these methods of measuring have remained pretty consistent, it’s not necessarily easy to figure it out if you’re new to the game. So, before you walk into your nearest dispensary and ask for a cup of weed or try to order 5 nugs on our site, keep reading this article to learn about the terms of cannabis measurement for whatever you may need.

The Basic Measurement

The basic measurement of weed is the gram, which is roughly the size of one single grape. This is usually the smallest amount one can get, although it’s becoming increasingly harder to find this small amount available at many dispensaries. On average, a gram costs about $10. However, the price will vary based on shelf-quality and any promotions going on.

You’ll usually find a gram in flower form or pre-rolled into a joint. So, if you’re brand new, asking for a gram joint at your dispensary might be a good place to start.

Looking at CBD for your pet? Consider small measurements for pets, they have much less mass than you or I.

Moving Up

From there, the next main measurement is an “eighth.” This is 3.5 grams of weed, or 1/8 of an ounce. It’s about the size of a kiwi fruit, and you can get an eighth for anywhere from $25-50, depending on the strain.

For those who don’t want to have to return to the dispensary after every gram, getting an eighth is a good idea. If you’re looking to buy in even larger quantities, then you might consider getting a quarter.

Q

Sometimes known as “Q,” a quarter of an ounce is just double an eighth. The great thing about weed measurements is that they’re pretty self-explanatory as long as you understand the metric system. If you’re looking to buy this amount of weed, you should plan to pay around $20 for shake and up to $60 or $70 for high-quality herb.

This is a good amount to purchase if you smoke regularly and would prefer to buy in larger quantities and dose it out. You should see herb about the size of an apple when you buy this amount.

Ounce for Ounce

Next, we reach an ounce. Of course, this is made up of 28 grams. (You can also half this measurement into what’s literally called a “half.”)

For a full ounce, prepare to spend anywhere from $80 to $160, depending on what kind of weed you’re purchasing and where you’re purchasing it from. An ounce, altogether, would look to be about the size of a coconut.

Beyond Weight: THC Measurements

Just because you buy two eighths of two different strains does not mean you’ll get the same effect from each. Each strain has its own genetic makeup and will have a unique measurement of THC, the psychoactive ingredient in cannabis that gives users an utterly euphoric feeling.

THC measurements are listed as a percentage of the compound in relation to other compounds within the plant. For example, a Colorado strain might be between 15-35% THC. This would be pretty average.

It’s nice to know what the THC percentage is before you buy, so you know what kind of experience you’ll be getting. Those with more of a proclivity to get paranoid or anxious when using cannabis should consider looking into strains with lower THC levels, as this might help.

The percentage of THC in products such as shatters and concentrates can be anywhere around 85%, which explains why you need so much less of that product to feel the effects.

Edibles react differently than smoking, so also consider what method of consumption you are using.

Educated and Empowered

Now that you’re properly educated on the weed measurements the industry uses, you can feel confident placing an order with our dispensary to just the right amount of weed you need. For more information, check our How to Order page.