How to Choose the Right Bong

The honest answer is that there is no single “right” bong that works for everyone. The best bong for you depends on several factors, including material, size, filtration, ease of cleaning, and intended use. Other considerations—such as design, color, portability, and whether you’ll be enjoying it alone or sharing it with friends—can also influence your decision.

Whether you’re purchasing your first bong or adding another piece to your collection, understanding these factors can help you find the perfect fit.

1. Choose the Right Material

We carry bongs in a variety of shapes, sizes, and designs made from glass, acrylic, and silicone.

Glass Bongs

Glass bongs remain one of the most popular choices thanks to their clean flavor, ease of cleaning, and wide variety of available designs. From simple straight tubes to intricate percolator pieces, glass offers something for nearly every preference.

Acrylic Bongs

Acrylic bongs are budget-friendly, lightweight, and an excellent entry-level option. Their durability and portability also make them a great choice for travel or everyday use.

Silicone Bongs

Silicone bongs are extremely durable and resistant to breaking, making them ideal for users who are frequently on the go. Many modern silicone designs incorporate glass or metal components, allowing users to enjoy the benefits of multiple materials in a single piece.

2. Pick the Right Size

Size matters—but choosing the right size is just as much about personal preference as it is about intended use.

Remember: bigger doesn’t always mean better. The best size is the one that matches how and where you plan to use it.

3. Consider the Style

Style isn’t just about showing off a cool piece to your friends. Every design has its own form and function, making style just as important as material or size.

Beaker Bongs

Beaker bongs feature a stable base and hold more water than many other designs. Their additional water volume helps provide cooler, smoother hits and makes them a popular choice for beginners and experienced users alike.

Straight Tube Bongs

Straight tube bongs offer a simpler design with direct airflow and fewer components to clean. Their straightforward construction makes them easy to maintain while still delivering an enjoyable experience.

Percolator Bongs

For users seeking additional filtration, percolator bongs use specialized chambers to diffuse smoke through water, resulting in a cooler, smoother draw. However, these extra features also require additional maintenance to keep them clean and functioning properly.

4. Set Your Budget

Price should always be a consideration, but it’s important not to assume that a lower price automatically means lower quality.

Many factors contribute to the cost of a bong, including materials, craftsmanship, size, and additional features.

Under $50 – Great for first-time buyers, budget-conscious shoppers, or travel pieces.
$50–$100 – Offers the widest selection of sizes, styles, and materials and is often the sweet spot for most customers.
Over $100 – Typically includes premium materials, advanced filtration systems, and unique designs.

No matter what your budget is, there are quality options available for every type of user.

5. Consider Accessories

Many bongs come ready to use right out of the box, but accessories can enhance your experience and extend the versatility of your piece.

Popular accessories include:

Traditional cup bowls allow you to customize the amount used during a session, while quartz bangers and carb caps can transform certain compatible water pipes into concentrate-friendly setups.

6. Don't Forget About Cleaning

Keeping your bong clean is essential for maintaining flavor, airflow, and overall performance.

Fortunately, there are plenty of tools available to make maintenance easy, including:

Regular cleaning not only keeps your piece looking great, but it also helps ensure it’s always ready for your next session.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right bong ultimately comes down to how you plan to use it. Consider where you’ll use it, how often you’ll use it, whether portability is important, and which features matter most to you.

Whether you’re looking for a simple acrylic bong, a durable silicone travel piece, or an elaborate glass bong with advanced filtration, there’s a perfect option for every preference and budget. Taking a few minutes to consider material, size, style, and accessories can help you find a bong you’ll enjoy for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size bong is best for a beginner?

An 8- to 12-inch bong is a good starting point for most beginners. It’s tall enough to help cool the smoke but still compact enough to handle, store, and clean easily. A beaker base is especially beginner-friendly because its wider base adds stability.

Is a percolator bong worth it?

A percolator bong can be worth it if you want a smoother, cooler hit and don’t mind a little extra cleaning. Percs add another stage of filtration, but their extra chambers and glasswork can take more effort to keep clean.

What’s the difference between a beaker bong and a straight tube?

The biggest differences are stability, water capacity, and how they clear. A beaker bong has a wide base that typically holds more water and is harder to tip over. A straight tube has a slimmer chamber, usually clears faster, and is often simpler to clean.

What bong joint size do I need: 10mm, 14mm, or 18mm?

The three common bong joint sizes are 10mm, 14mm, and 18mm. If you’re unsure, 14mm is the most common all-around choice and gives you plenty of options for replacement bowls and bong accessories. Before buying a replacement bowl or downstem, check both the joint size and whether your bong uses a male or female joint.