Weed Measurements: Why They Matter
- By: Tim Wolski
- education | March 11, 2025
Welcome to the world of cannabis! If you're new to using marijuana, it's crucial to understand the different measurements used. Don't worry - we'll explain everything to you!
Legal compliance: In most states where cannabis is legal, it is sold by weight. Being aware of the weight of your cannabis can help you avoid accidentally purchasing more than the legal limit.
Getting your money's worth: Cannabis can be expensive, so it's essential to know how much you're getting for your money. Understanding weed measurements will help you compare prices and get the best value.
Responsible consumption: It's important to be aware of how much THC you're consuming, especially if you're new to cannabis. Knowing the weight of your weed will help you estimate your THC intake and avoid overconsumption.
When it comes to buying cannabis, there are a few standard units of measurement that you'll likely encounter. At a dispensary, cannabis is typically sold in units of grams: 3.5 grams (also called an eighth of an ounce), 7 grams (quarter of an ounce), 14 grams (half ounce) and 28 grams (ounce).
A gram of weed is roughly the size of a nickel or the diameter of a standard paper clip. It's the smallest amount typically available for purchase at a dispensary.
Grams are a great option for trying a new strain of cannabis, as they allow you to sample the effects without committing to a larger purchase. It is also an excellent option for microdosing, the practice of consuming tiny amounts of cannabis to achieve specific therapeutic effects.
An eighth of weed, also called a “slice” or simply an “eighth,” is roughly the size of a golf ball. It is a popular option for new cannabis users or those who wish to try a smaller amount before committing to a larger purchase. Here's why:
A quarter of weed, roughly the size of a large strawberry, is a good choice for regular cannabis consumers or those who want to share with friends. It's a happy medium between an eighth and a half-ounce, offering enough flower to last a few days or even weeks for a light consumer.
Quarters are also often priced more affordably per gram than eighths, making them a more economical option for those who plan on consuming cannabis regularly.
A half-ounce of weed is a significant amount of flower, roughly the size of an apple. It's a good choice for those who consume cannabis frequently or want to stock up on their favorite strain.
Buying in bulk can be a great way to save money! Plus, keeping half an ounce on hand means you'll always have what you need and won't run out anytime soon.
An ounce of weed is the largest amount you'll typically find at a dispensary. It's roughly the size of a softball and best suits heavy consumers or those who want a substantial supply. Ounces often come with the most significant cost savings per gram, making them an economical choice for those with high cannabis consumption.
When choosing what size to purchase, always consider your consumption frequency. While larger sizes may provide the best price per gram, smaller amounts can be more suitable for less frequent consumers. This helps maintain the freshness of your flower and ensures the best flavor and potency with each use.
Like any subculture, the cannabis community has its own unique slang terms. Here are a few you might encounter:
A “dime bag” traditionally refers to a gram of weed. The name comes from the days when a gram cost around $10. However, prices have changed and can vary based on brand, strain, potency and more – so a dime bag might not always be $10 worth of weed. It's always best to confirm the weight with your budtender.
A “dub” can be a bit ambiguous. It can refer to $20 worth of weed, regardless of the weight, or it can specifically mean 2 grams of weed. Again, clarifying with your budtender is always best to avoid confusion.
A “slice” is slang for an eighth of weed (around 3.5 grams). This term likely comes from the fact that a single slice of a circular pizza is about 1/8th of the pie. Slices are a popular choice for those who are new to cannabis or want to try a smaller amount before committing to a more significant purchase.
Short for “quarter ounce,” a quad is a unit of weed equal to approximately 7 grams. This is a convenient amount for those who consume cannabis regularly but don't necessarily need a large supply. Quads are often priced at a slight discount compared to eighths, making them a more economical option for frequent users.
A zip is a common slang term for an ounce of weed (28 grams). This term likely originated from the fact that an ounce of weed was historically packaged in small, zippered bags. While not as common these days due to regulations and labeling requirements, the term “zip” has stuck around in cannabis slang.
The amount of weed you should buy depends on several factors, including:
If you're new to cannabis, it's best to start with a small amount, such as a gram or an eighth of an ounce. You can always buy more later if you need it. As you gain experience, you can start buying larger quantities.
There are two ways to measure your weed: with a scale or without a scale.
Using a scale is the most precise way to measure your weed. Digital scales are the most accurate, but analog scales will also work.
If you don't have a scale, you can estimate the weight of your weed by using visual cues. A gram of weed is roughly the size of a nickel.
Disclaimer: Visual estimates are not as accurate as using a scale. It's always best to use a scale if you want to be sure of the exact weight of your weed.
Verona Collective dispensaries are committed to providing accurately measured, high-quality cannabis products. Our budtenders are knowledgeable and experienced, and they can help you find the right product for your needs. We also offer a variety of promotions and specials so you can be sure to get the best possible price.
Find our nearest dispensary today to explore our product selection and find the perfect amount of weed for you. You can also browse our online menu beforehand to save time.