THC Drinks vs. Edibles: What’s the Difference?

As cannabis continues to evolve in Canada’s thriving legal market, so do the ways we consume it. Gone are the days when smoking was the only option—now, you can sip it, chew it, or savor it in dozens of creative forms. Two of the most popular cannabis-infused products are THC drinks and weed edibles. But what sets them apart? And which one is right for your vibe?

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about THC drinks vs edibles, including how they work, how fast they hit, how long they last, and what kind of high you can expect. Whether you’re new to cannabis drinks or already love your weed edibles, this article will help you make the best choice for your next elevated experience.

Let’s dive in.

 

What Are THC Drinks?

THC drinks, also known as cannabis drinks or cannabis infused drinks, are beverages that contain tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound in cannabis that gets you high. These drinks come in a variety of forms and flavours, including:

• Sparkling cannabis beverages
• THC sodas and colas
• Cannabis-infused iced teas or lemonades
• THC-infused waters and tonics
• Mocktails with THC and CBD blends

What sets THC drinks apart is their ability to provide a more social and refreshing way to consume cannabis. They’re perfect for people who want to enjoy the effects of weed without smoking or eating sweets.

 

What Are Weed Edibles?

Weed edibles are food products infused with THC, often made using cannabis oil or distillate. Popular formats include:

• THC gummies
• Cannabis chocolate bars
• Baked goods like cookies or brownies
• Weed mints, hard candies, weed caramels & toffee
• Jelly Bombs

Weed edibles are discreet, long-lasting, and great for microdosing or deep relaxation. Unlike cannabis drinks, they usually take longer to kick in—but when they do, the effects tend to be stronger and last much longer.

 

THC Drinks vs Edibles: The Main Differences

When it comes to THC drinks vs edibles, the differences boil down to how they’re absorbed, how fast they work, and the kind of experience they deliver. Let’s compare them across key categories:

1. Onset Time: How Fast They Hit

• THC Drinks: Typically kick in within 10 to 30 minutes, thanks to a process called nanoemulsification, which breaks down THC into smaller particles that your body absorbs quickly.
• Weed Edibles: Take anywhere from 45 minutes to 2 hours to kick in, since they need to be digested and metabolized by the liver.

✅ If you’re looking for fast effects, cannabis drinks are the clear winner.

2. Duration of Effects

• THC Drinks: Effects tend to last 2 to 4 hours depending on dose, metabolism, and tolerance.
• Edibles: Effects can last 6 to 8 hours, with the peak often hitting around the 2 to 3-hour mark.

✅ If you want a longer, more immersive high, weed edibles might be your go-to.

3. Type of High

• Cannabis Drinks: Often deliver a lighter, more social high. They’re great for hanging out, being active, or enjoying a chill evening.
• Weed Edibles: Usually provide a more intense body high. Ideal for deep relaxation, sleep, or stress relief.

✅ Choose cannabis drinks for daytime use and edibles for winding down.

4. Dosing and Control

• THC Drinks: Come in controlled doses (typically 2.5mg to 10mg per can), making it easy to sip and adjust your intake gradually.
• Edibles: Also come in precise doses, but they’re slower-acting, so it’s easy to overconsume if you’re not patient.

✅ For quick feedback and better dose control, THC drinks give you more real-time control.

5. Discretion and Convenience

• Cannabis Drinks: Look like regular beverages—perfect for low-key social events.
• Weed Edibles: Also discreet and easy to stash or carry, but sometimes leave a cannabis aftertaste.

✅ Both are discreet, but drinks have the edge in social settings.

 

The Science Behind Cannabis Infused Drinks

So why do THC drinks hit faster than traditional weed edibles? It’s all thanks to nanoemulsified THC—a process that breaks down THC oil into tiny, water-soluble particles that your body can absorb through the lining of your mouth and stomach.

That means faster onset and more consistent effects. Unlike traditional edibles that must be digested and converted into 11-hydroxy-THC (a more potent compound), cannabis drinks deliver THC more directly into your bloodstream.

This tech-driven innovation has made cannabis infused drinks one of the most exciting product categories in the Canadian cannabis space.

 

Popular THC Drinks in Canada

At Reefside, we stock some of the best THC drinks in Canada. Here are a few top picks:

1. Citrus Sparkle THC Beverage – 10mg THC

Light, refreshing, and zesty, this drink delivers an energizing high within 15 minutes. Great for parties or afternoon hangouts.

2. Chill Berry Infused Iced Tea – 5mg THC / 5mg CBD

Perfect for mellow evenings or stress relief. Balanced with CBD for a calming, clear-headed experience.

3. Tropical THC Soda – 2.5mg Microdose

Ideal for beginners or social drinkers. Enjoy multiple cans for a buildable buzz without going overboard.

 

Best Weed Edibles in Canada

Weed edibles remain a staple for their flavor, potency, and variety. Check out these Reefside favorites:

1. Dreamtime THC Gummies – 10mg Indica

Sleep-inducing, soothing, and body-heavy. Perfect for nighttime use or managing anxiety.

2. CBD/THC Balance Chocolate Bar – 5mg Each Square

Sweet, smooth, and relaxing. Each bite delivers consistent, balanced effects.

3. High Dose Sativa Gummies – 20mg

For experienced users who want a creative or energetic high with long-lasting effects.

 

THC Drinks vs Edibles: Which One Should You Choose?

Choosing between THC drinks and weed edibles really comes down to your needs and preferences. Here’s a quick cheat sheet to help:

Use Case	Best Option
Fast-acting high	THC Drinks
Long-lasting effects	Edibles
Daytime buzz	THC Drinks
Sleep or stress relief	Weed Edibles
Discreet social consumption	THC Drinks
Deep body high or sedation	Weed Edibles
Beginner-friendly	THC Drinks (low-dose)
Microdosing	Both are good!

Still unsure? Try both! Many of our customers at Reefside enjoy keeping both cannabis infused drinks and weed edibles on hand for different occasions.

 

Where to Buy THC Drinks and Edibles in Canada

At Reefside, we offer a carefully curated selection of the best THC drinks and weed edibles on the Canadian market. Whether you’re looking for something to sip during a summer hangout or a gummy to help you unwind before bed, we’ve got something for every kind of cannabis enthusiast.

Why shop at Reefside?

• 100% legal, licensed cannabis products
• Third-party lab-tested for safety and potency
• Discreet packaging and fast shipping across Canada
• Exclusive deals and seasonal product drops

Final Thoughts on THC Drinks vs Edibles

Both THC drinks and weed edibles have their time and place. Whether you’re sipping a citrus-infused THC soda or chewing on a mango-flavored indica gummy, the key is to understand how each product works and how it fits your lifestyle.

Cannabis infused drinks are great for fast-acting, social highs with a light touch. Edibles offer deeper, longer experiences that are perfect for relaxation, sleep, or full-body effects. At Reefside, we encourage you to explore both to find your favorite way to enjoy cannabis.

Still have questions about THC drinks vs edibles? We’re here to help! Reach out to our team or check out our blog for more guides and product recommendations.

Ready to find your perfect cannabis experience?
👉 Shop THC Drinks and Edibles Now at Reefside

 

REFERENCES:

Dario Sabaghi. (2024, March 19). Nearly 72% Of Canada’s Cannabis Users Buy From Legal Market, Survey Finds. Available at: https://www.forbes.com/sites/dariosabaghi/2024/03/19/nearly-72-of-canadas-cannabis-users-buy-from-legal-market-survey-finds/ 

Julie Corliss. (2024, July 15). Cannabis drinks: How do they compare to alcohol?. Available at: https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/cannabis-drinks-how-do-they-compare-to-alcohol-202407153058