Delta 8 vs. Delta 9 vs. Delta 10: The Ultimate Comparison

In the green world of THC, delta 8 vs. delta 9 vs. delta 10 is the newest hot trend, and each variety has its own different vibe. If you want to know what differentiates these three, then you’re in the right place. We’ll show you how they stack up, what you should know about the effects, and why they’re ripping up the bud circuit from Delta 8 dabs to Delta 9 caramels to Delta 10 vapes. Let’s hammer it all out so it’s just as easy as scrolling through your Instagram feed.

• Different THC Types, Unique Vibes: Delta 8 is known for its mellow feel, Delta 9 is the classic potent option, and Delta 10 offers a lighter, more energizing experience. Each one gives a distinct twist to the THC experience.
  
  
• Potencies & THC Levels vary: Delta 9 THC is the strongest one, which gives you an authentic hit. Delta 8 is softer and great for a gentle start to THC, while Delta 10 is between the two, mixing moderate effects with an optimistic tone.
  
  
• Federal vs State Laws State by state: Hemp-derived Delta 8, Delta 9, and Delta 10 THC is legal in the US under 0.3% Delta 9 THC. But it is state governed, so double check with your state. 
  
  

• Where to Buy: If you are looking for pure, lab-tested Delta 8 and Delta 9, there are several options from The Hemp Collect, all with COAs, so you know what you are getting.

THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is what gives cannabis its distinct advantage. But not just one – there are different kinds. Here’s a quick breakdown:  

• Delta 8 THC: Great for a low, gentle buzz. 
  
  
• Delta 9 THC: The go-to, standard THC most associated with pot.
   
• Delta 10 THC: The newest kid on the block, causing a stir with its more playful effects. 

Each form comes from hemp or cannabis, but the effects and experiences vary.

THC is a cannabinoid a compound found in marijuana that works through our body’s ECS. The ECS is a complex system that works on everything from mood to sleep to memory and so on. 

THC is also a phytocannabinoid, like CBD (cannabidiol), a plant extract extracted straight from the marijuana plants. Those phytocannabinoids can be directed at ECS receptors as can our own endocannabinoids. 

Once THC reaches the brain and other organs via CB1 and CB2 receptors, a chain of events ensues to generate its signature effects. These are the properties that have made THC one of the most popular cannabinoids available today. 

Imagine THC as a text notification from your body’s internal Wi-Fi network—it helps everything connect.

THC binds to neurotransmitters and chemical messengers carrying information from one nerve cell to another. But it does, depending on what receptors THC signals and where exactly it is, release some neurotransmitters more or less. Remember, THC is a cannabinoid, and our bodies have endocannabinoid receptors, so the interaction occurs in this way.

THC, for example, might either raise dopamine (a brain chemical involved in pleasure and reward) or decrease glutamate (a brain chemical involved in learning and memory). 

You may also see that THC will overpower or cancel other cannabinoids, like CBD, to maximize or balance all three. 

The effects of THC differ based on the specific type you choose. Here’s the general breakdown:

• Delta 8: Known for a more relaxed, smoother experience.
  
  
• Delta 9: Delivers a strong, well-known impact.
  
  
• Delta 10: Offers a lighter, more energizing twist.

Each type brings something distinct to the table, giving you options depending on the mood or experience you’re aiming for

Ready to dive deeper into the difference between Delta 8, Delta 9, and Delta 10? Let’s get specific.

A tiny but powerful cannabinoid found in cannabis is delta-8 THC (delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol). It has a molecular profile close to that of Delta 9 THC, except that Delta 8 double-bonds on the eighth rather than the ninth carbon atom. It’s what gives Delta 8 its own signature vibe and can be a bit more unobtrusive than the others. Made mostly out of hemp, Delta 8 carts, disposables, and gummies are popular with the mellow type. It’s the softer, more restrained sister of the THC clan and a different twist on traditional THC.

Delta-9 THC, or delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, is the most abundant and widely understood cannabinoid in marijuana or cannabis. This is the THC type that’s the most important substance in weed and its effects. With its powerful aroma and effects, Delta 9 products like Delta 9 edibles and Delta 9 Caramels are the go-to choice for anyone wanting that classic THC high, especially where you can get THC legally. Delta 9 occurs when the precursor THCA found in raw cannabis is decarboxylated (usually with heat) into the active THC we know and love.

Delta 10 THC (delta-10-tetrahydrocannabinol) is the more recent THC derivative, and it’s best known for being slightly more upbeat. Delta 10 is double-bonded on the 10th carbon atom, so it has its own endocannabinoid specificity, unlike Delta 8 or Delta 9. One of the more surprising finds of all time is the Delta 10 line, and Delta 10 vapes specifically, an appealing choice for anyone seeking something new and less overwhelming than Delta 9. The most obscure cannabinoid was discovered randomly, and it is still being studied for potential applications and effects. 

Each of these THC types brings something unique to the table, giving users a range of options to fit different preferences and experiences.

If you’re looking at potency, each type of THC comes with its own level of intensity. Here’s how they measure up.

Delta 8 THC is often regarded as a more gentle alternative to other options, popular amongst those who prefer an uncomplicated, down-to-earth smoke. It has a different binding profile than Delta 9 to cannabinoid receptors and so the effects are generally milder. You can access Delta 8 Products, from Delta 8 Gummies to Delta 8 Softgels, for those who would like to get a little more THC under their belt. At 50–70% less potency than Delta 9, Delta 8 delivers an unpretentious, friendly experience.

Delta 9 THC is the original THC, the “OG,” and it is known for being very potent. It has an excellent affinity for the CB1 receptors and gives you the potent experience that most people think of with traditional cannabis. Since delta 9 THC is so bioavailable, more gets into the bloodstream, making its effects stronger. Delta 9 Products, such as edibles, concentrates, and oils, therefore, make excellent choices for anyone who wants the more intense, original THC hit.

The Delta 10 THC is the middle of Delta 8 and Delta 9 as far as potency goes. It is weaker at the CB1 and CB2 receptors and hence more moderate. Delta 10 is a fun one to play if you want something lighter than Delta 9 but a bit more interesting than Delta 8. Due to its uplifting nature, Delta 10 vapes and other similar products can be a welcome choice for those who want a unique yet not overly heavy THC hit.

Without diving into health claims, let’s just say each type of THC offers a different experience. Here’s a look at each's general vibe.

A known calm, euphoric high, Delta 8 THC is found in products such as Delta 8 Edibles and Delta 8 Dabs. It’s smoother and more euphoric than Delta 9 and can be weaker.

Delta 9 kicks harder and is more likely to bring feelings of euphoria. For that classic feel, delta 9 gummies and delta 9 caramels are just right.

Delta 10 is airy, light, and lifted, perfect for a more energetic experience without the punch of Delta 9.

Legal status can be a maze, so let’s break it down simply.

The 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp-derived products containing less than 0.3% Delta 9 THC by dry weight, making it federally legal to produce and sell hemp-derived Delta-9 THC, as well as Delta 8 and Delta 10 THC, provided they comply with this threshold. However, it is important to remember that federal legality does not imply full approval for all uses, as each THC variant—Delta 8, Delta 9, and Delta 10—has its own regulatory considerations. Furthermore, the FDA has warned businesses making unsubstantiated claims and has neither approved nor assessed any of these products for safety or efficacy, despite the fact that they are permitted by federal law.

States may have very different laws governing Delta 8, Delta 9, and Delta 10 THC derived from hemp. While these products may meet federal regulations, their legal status varies by state, with some states enforcing specific bans or restrictions. Before using or buying products containing Delta 8, Delta 9, or Delta 10 THC derived from hemp, make sure you are in compliance with your local laws.

Looking to try one of these? You can buy Delta 8 and Delta 9 products online from us here at The Hemp Collect. We offer a range of high-quality, third-party lab-tested options, from Delta 8 Carts to Delta 9 Edibles. A Certificate of Analysis (COA) is included with every product for added peace of mind. Discover your new favorite Delta 8 or Delta 9 product by looking through our inventory!

Choosing a THC product can feel like picking a new show to binge-watch; you’ve got to go with what feels right. Whether you’re interested in the classic punch of Delta 9 Gummies or the mellow experience of Delta 8 Live Resin, the choice is yours. Just think about your preferences, desired intensity, and product type. To find out what is in a product, always choose one with a certificate of analysis (COA). Don’t worry; we at The Hemp Collect provide COAs for all of our products.

Want to learn more? Visit our blog section, or contact us via email at hello@thehempcollect.com, or call us at +1.503.438.6783 to get your questions answered. The Hemp Collect support staff is available and prepared to assist you! Contact us for more details.