You’ve probably heard it before: “Edibles hit different.”
And if you’ve ever had a brownie that knocked you out for the afternoon, you know it’s not just a saying.
Whether you’re brand new to cannabis or just exploring new ways to consume, deciding between edibles and smoking is a big deal. They offer completely different experiences in how they hit, how long they last, and how they feel in your body and mind.
Let’s break it all down in a way that makes sense. No jargon, no judgment, just real talk about what works and why.
Edibles vs. Smoking at a Glance
Edibles are known for taking a while to kick in. The issue is that this onset time can vary drastically based on factors like how the edible was made or when you last ate.
When they do hit, they tend to last a lot longer, but this can also vary drastically. Some edibles can last just a couple of hours, while others (typically more potent) can last up to eight hours.
This variation happens because the THC goes through your digestive system and liver, where it transforms into a compound called 11-hydroxy-THC. This version of THC is more potent and longer-lasting, which is why edibles often deliver a more intense and full-body high.
The digestive breakdown process of edibles is also why they take longer to hit.
Smoking or vaping on the other hand, hits almost instantly. The THC goes straight into your bloodstream through your lungs, and effects can be felt within a couple of minutes. The high doesn’t last as long, typically lasting around one to three hours. For some, the immediate onset and short duration of smoking and vaping makes the experience more controllable. For others, the rapid onset can be overwhelming, and edibles provide a slower build up that is not as intense up front.
When it comes to discretion, edibles are the clear winner. You can pop a gummy or tablet in public and nobody’s the wiser. Smoking, while fast and familiar to many, has that distinct cannabis smell. Even cannabis vape pens can still produce a noticeable odor, though still less loud than smoking.
The CLEAR EFX Gummies and Tablets: Changing the Edible Game
As we mentioned earlier, the onset times of edibles can vary wildly. We noticed this lack of consistency at The CLEAR, and decided to do something about it.
In 2025, The CLEAR launched The CLEAR EFX line. This line creates the bridge between cannabis and wellness, providing the benefits of minor cannabinoids without being bogged down by high THC potency. Two of these new products include our EFX Gummies and Tablets.
While traditional edibles come with that long wait time, The CLEAR’s EFX Gummies and Tablets offer something different. Thanks to advanced absorption technology, AKA Smart Cannabis Technology, these edibles can take effect in as little as 15 to 20 minutes. That’s a game-changer for anyone who’s used to waiting around and wondering, “Is it working yet?”
These fast-acting edibles offer a smooth, predictable high that’s ideal for beginners and seasoned users alike. Because they’re formulated for quicker absorption, they provide effects that feel more balanced and easier to manage. You can still get that relaxed, full-body vibe you expect from an edible with EFX Gummies, but without the wait or the risk of overdoing it.
EFX Gummies can be taken as a 10mg standard dose, or easily split into four, 2.5mg doses. EFX Tablets are only 2.5mg per tablet allowing you to take even more control over your experience. Blended in precise ratios with beneficial minor cannabinoids, these aren’t your run of the mill, low-dose edibles either.
Thanks to Smart Cannabis Technology, you can achieve specific, targeted effects. Focus, Energy, Escape, Recover, Rest and Relax all contain different cannabinoids that can provide the experience you seek, with THC taking more of a backseat.
Health and Safety of Edibles vs. Smoking
When it comes to health concerns, both methods have their own considerations. Smoking anything—yes, even cannabis—introduces combusted plant material into your lungs, which can cause irritation or discomfort over time. For people with respiratory issues or those who just don’t love the idea of inhaling smoke, that might be a dealbreaker.
Due to the negative perception associated with smoking, many may want to turn to vaping instead. But due to the illegality of cannabis at the federal level and a lack of research funding, nothing is definitive yet.
Edibles avoid the smoke and vapor all together but can be more unpredictable. Taking just a little too much can result in a several-hour long experience that could be uncomfortable or scary, especially for newer consumers. Knowing proper dosages of cannabis edibles is essential to having an enjoyable experience.
That’s why fast-acting edibles like The CLEAR EFX line offer such a solid middle ground. They eliminate the smoke while giving you a quicker, more manageable experience, helping to avoid both lung irritation and accidental overconsumption.
So… What’s Right for You?
The best method for you depends on what you want out of your cannabis experience. If you’re looking for something that kicks in quickly and gives you the ability to adjust your intake on the fly, smoking or vaping might be your best bet. It’s straightforward and easy to control.
If you’re more into longer-lasting, full-body effects and don’t mind waiting a bit, traditional edibles could be your jam—just make sure you start with a low dose and give it time to work.
And if you’re looking for the benefits of edibles without the wait, The CLEAR’s fast-acting gummies and tablets are worth a serious look. They’re perfect for people who want discretion, control, and a mellow experience that doesn’t leave them guessing.
When it comes to cannabis, some experimentation may be required to really find what you enjoy. Always start low and go slow, especially with edibles. And if you ever have questions about cannabis products, proper dosing or general cannabis education, you can always shoot us a message!
