Choosing Between 1ml and 2ml Distillate Vapes: Which Delivers Better Value for Cannabis Brands?

When it comes to cannabis vape products, sometimes the smallest choices make the biggest impact. For cannabis brands, deciding between a 1.0ml and 2.0ml distillate vape might seem like a minor detail—but it can dramatically affect profit margins, user experience, and market positioning.

Think of it this way: for just a $1 difference in extract cost, you could unlock a higher price point, reach a more loyal customer base, and ultimately create stronger value across your entire product line. The question is no longer “Can we afford to go bigger?”—it’s “Can we afford not to?”

In this post, we break down the real cost-performance dynamics of 1ml vs. 2ml distillate vapes, helping cannabis brands make smarter, more strategic product decisions.

Product Overview

At first glance, the difference may seem simple: double the oil, double the volume. But for cannabis brands, this difference ripples across pricing strategy, profitability, and market positioning.

1. Hardware and Extract Cost

One of the most surprising findings for many cannabis businesses is that the hardware cost between 1ml and 2ml devices is negligible. Whether it's a disposable vape or a 510 cartridge, the price difference in hardware is so minimal it barely registers on the balance sheet.

From a COGS (Cost of Goods Sold) perspective, the only real difference is the extract volume itself. If distillate costs around $1/ml, then a 2ml unit simply adds an extra dollar in cost—an easy jump when compared to its ability to command a higher retail price point.

This opens a crucial value gap: for just $1 more in extract, brands can double the consumer use time, increase retail pricing, and still come out with higher margins per unit.

2. Retail Price and Profitability

The 1ml product typically retails between $20 and $50, depending on brand positioning and extract quality. In contrast, 2ml products are comfortably selling for $40 to $70.

What does this mean in terms of profit?

Let’s break down a basic margin comparison (simplified for clarity):

1ml Product Example

Hardware: $2.50

Extract: $1.00

Total Cost: $3.50

Retail Price: $40

Gross Profit: $36.50

2ml Product Example

Hardware: $2.60

Extract: $2.00

Total Cost: $4.60

Retail Price: $60

Gross Profit: $55.40

This difference in absolute profit per unit can be significant, especially when scaled. While the percentage margin may vary depending on pricing strategy, the net margin for 2ml products tends to be substantially higher—without requiring double the investment.

For brands looking to improve profit-per-sale without increasing operational complexity, the 2ml format stands out as a compelling choice.

3. Consumer Segmentation

One key to choosing the right format lies in knowing your customer.

1ml vapes appeal to:

First-time or occasional users

Budget-conscious customers

Users looking to try different strains without committing to larger sizes

2ml vapes are better suited for:

Customers seeking better value per mg

Medical patients needing higher daily doses

Travelers or those seeking long-lasting options

By aligning product formats with user behavior, brands can fine-tune their portfolio to drive user satisfaction and repeat purchase rates.

4. Market Trends and Demand

While 1ml has traditionally been the industry standard—particularly for distillate-based vapes—the market is clearly shifting. As consumers become more familiar with cannabis vaping, demand is moving toward larger formats that offer longer usage time and better value.

In mature cannabis markets like California, Colorado, and Oregon, 2ml vapes are quickly gaining share. Wholesale buyers and retailers are also catching on, preferring higher-ticket items that move slower but deliver better turnover margins.

Moreover, multi-state operators (MSOs) and growing brands are favoring 2ml disposables in their premium and mid-tier lines, capitalizing on consumer perception of value and convenience.

That said, the 1ml format still holds strong in certain niches:

Retail trial SKUs

Sampler packs

Introductory product lines

Markets with stricter dosage or price limitations

5. Strategic Takeaways for Cannabis Brands

So, what’s the bottom line for cannabis businesses choosing between 1ml and 2ml distillate vapes?

✅ Go 2ml When:

You want to maximize profit per unit

Your brand targets veteran users or heavy consumers

You are positioning your products as value-driven or premium

You want to reduce packaging, shipping, or retail shelf space per mg

✅ Stick With 1ml When:

You are targeting entry-level users

You want to encourage sampling and exploration

Your brand strategy revolves around affordability and accessibility

Your market has restrictions on maximum unit sizes

A blended portfolio—offering both 1ml and 2ml SKUs—often proves to be the smartest strategy. This allows your brand to serve multiple market segments, optimize shelf presence, and stay agile as trends shift.

In the battle between 1ml and 2ml distillate vapes, it’s clear that 2ml formats offer a better cost-performance ratio for many cannabis brands. With negligible added cost, significantly higher pricing potential, and growing consumer demand, the 2ml format can be a strategic advantage in today’s competitive landscape.

However, the smartest brands are those that understand not just their costs—but their customers. Whether you lead with high-capacity performance or offer approachable entry options, knowing how each format serves your value chain is key to building a profitable, sustainable vape portfolio.