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If you are new to cannabis, understanding weed measurements is an essential skill to learn when buying weed, cooking with it, and consuming it. In our ultimate guide to weed measurements and costs, we break down the slang terms and cannabis market prices.

When you go to a marijuana dispensary, do you ask the budtender for a certain dollar amount of weed or refer to the cannabis measurements provided? As a cannabis consumer, it's important to understand the unique measuring system and slang commonly used at dispensaries.

You shouldn't have to feel embarrassed about buying cannabis for the first time. You might not even understand when the budtender tells you how much it costs for an ounce of your favorite marijuana strain. And that is OK.

Not everyone will know how to buy weed right off hand, but you can let the budtender know that you are new to cannabis measurements. It might take you time to learn, but always ask questions if you are unsure.

The Avid Marijuana User

Understanding cannabis measurements can be a learning process. The metric system itself, though it has been around for a while, takes some getting used to. However, you can easily learn it and be ready to make a wise cannabis purchase in no time.

Various Measuring Systems for Cannabis

Many people in the United States are accustomed to measuring things using the imperial system (feet, inches, pounds, ounces, etc.), but not everyone understands cannabis measurements. Cannabis measurements use the metric system and imperial system. Having an idea of how the systems work will be helpful.

Measurements in pounds and ounces are part of the imperial system and are usually only available for purchase by licensed operators. Dispensaries that use the gram form of cannabis measurements are taken from the international unit system, or the metric system.

Most of the confusion comes from switching from the system of general cannabis measurements and international cannabis measurements.

Common cannabis measurements you will see at dispensaries use the metric system. Cannabis is measured in grams (metric system) but also in ounces (imperial system).

This is the reason why weed measurements can be confusing for new users. They are a mixture of different systems of measurement.

To complicate matters, dispensaries round down when converting ounces to grams. For example, one ounce of cannabis is technically 28.35 grams. At a dispensary, one ounce will be rounded down to 28 grams.

Weed Measurements Street Terms

If you are new to the cannabis world, you may not know all the slang words that avid users use. For example, your budtender might refer to weed as Mary Jane, bud, ganja, or chronic, for example.

Other jargons that you might not yet know are eighth, ounce, full O, dime, quarter, dub, and Z. Dime and Dub is another term for $10 or $20 worth of cannabis. An eighth, half or quarter is between 3.5 grams to 14 grams. An ounce, Z or full O, is twenty eight grams.

While slang cannabis terms are usually used by black-market dealers instead of budtenders at licensed dispensaries, you may hear these terms being used there, too. Here is a quick primer on common slang terms for cannabis measurements:

  • Dime bag – A dime bag refers to a measurement of weed that is $10. It's usually about 1 gram of cannabis.
  • Dub sack – A dub sack, also known as 2 grams of cannabis, refers to $20 worth of marijuana.
  • A slice – A slice is a term used to describe an eighth of weed (3.5 grams).
  • A zip – A zip refers to an ounce of weed (28 grams).

Weed Measurements: Explained

What are the most common weed measurements used at dispensaries?

In a rush? Here's a handy reference guide for common weed measurements:

  • One-eighth of an ounce – 3.5 grams
  • One-quarter of an ounce – 7 grams
  • One-half of an ounce – 14 grams
  • One ounce – 28 grams

1 Gram of Weed

A gram is the smallest amount you can buy at a dispensary. Grams are a good choice for users who want to try a different strain or those who are not regular users. It can be enough to fill a standard joint or two smaller joints, if you’re the only one smoking. A gram is enough to fill between 2-3 standard pipe or bong bowls.

1 gram of weed measured out on a digital scale.

Eighth of Weed

An eighth refers to an eighth of an ounce of weed, or 3.5 grams. An eighth is the most popular cannabis quantity and one of the lowest amounts available at dispensaries. For most users, an eighth is enough to last them for a good while (at least a week) before they have to stock up again.

1/8th of weed, or 3.5 grams on a scale. Buds of weed weighed out on a scale showing 3.5 grams or 1/8th oz.

Quarter of Weed

If someone talks about a quarter of weed, they are referring to a quarter of an ounce, also known as a quad or quarter, weighing about 7 grams. A quarter is equal to two eighths of weed. A quarter ounce is a perfect amount for a large gathering with friends.

1/4 oz. of weed or 7 grams of weed on a scale weighed out. Buds on top of a digital scale that equals 7 grams or 1 quarter of weed.

Half Ounce of Weed

A half is short for a half-ounce of cannabis, or 14 grams. A half-ounce, also called half a zip, is equal to two quarters or four eighths. Half ounces and higher weed amounts usually are a better deal than smaller amounts.

1/2 oz of weed, or 14 grams weight out on a digital scale. A half an ounce of weed on top of a scale showing it is 14 grams.

Ounce of Weed

An ounce, also called a zip, refers to 28 grams of cannabis. In most legal states, an ounce is the most you can buy at one time. Buying an ounce of cannabis at a time, if possible, can get users the best bang for their buck compared to buying smaller amounts.

Quarter Pound of Weed

A quarter-pound, also known as a QP, is not commonly available for cannabis users, only for licensed operators (retailers, processors, etc.). A quarter-pound is equal to four ounces or 112 grams of cannabis. In most states, possession of a quarter pound of cannabis is prohibited.

Pound of Weed

A pound of weed contains 16 ounces of cannabis or 448 grams.

Most Common Weed Measurements Overview

  1. Gram (g): The smallest unit of measurement, often used for small quantities of cannabis. One gram is approximately enough to roll one joint or fill one bowl in a pipe or bong.
  2. Eighth (1/8 ounce): Also known as an “eighth,” this is equal to 3.5 grams of cannabis. It's a common quantity for personal use and typically enough for a few joints or several bowls.
  3. Quarter (1/4 ounce): Equal to 7 grams of cannabis, a quarter is double the size of an eighth. It's a popular choice for moderate consumers or those looking to stock up for personal use.
  4. Half Ounce (1/2 ounce): Equal to 14 grams of cannabis, a half ounce is a larger quantity typically purchased by more frequent consumers or shared among friends for social gatherings.
  5. Ounce (oz): Equal to 28 grams of cannabis, an ounce is a substantial amount often purchased by heavy consumers or for longer-term personal use. It's also commonly used by dispensaries for bulk sales.
  6. Pound (lb): Equal to 16 ounces or 448 grams of cannabis, a pound is a large quantity typically purchased by commercial growers or distributors. It's not commonly used for personal consumption but rather for wholesale transactions.

Weed Measurements and Costs FAQ's

How is Weed Measured?

The common units of measurement for weed are grams, eighths, quarters, ounces, and pounds. One eighth of an ounce, or around 3.5 grams, is referred to as an eighth. A quarter weighs roughly 7 grams, or 1/4 of an ounce. About 28 grams make up one ounce.

How Much Does an Eighth of Weed Cost?

An eighth of cannabis can cost different amounts depending on its quality, location, and legality. In places where marijuana is legal, the typical price might be between $25 and $50.

What Does a Gram of Weed Cost?

In legal marketplaces, the price of a gram of cannabis, which is often the smallest amount offered, can range from $10 to $20. The strain and quality may have an impact on price.

How Much is a Quarter of Weed?

In legitimate markets, a quarter (7 grams) usually costs between $50 and $80. When compared to purchasing by the gram, this may be more economical.

How Much Does an Ounce of Weed Cost?

In places where marijuana is legal, the price of an ounce might range from $150 to $300. Premium strains may come with a higher price tag.

What Factors Affect the Price of Weed?

Legality, location, product quality (including strain, potency, and growing technique), and supply and demand dynamics can all affect prices.

Is It Cheaper to Buy Weed in Bulk?

Because of bulk pricing, purchasing in larger quantities (such as ounces) is typically more affordable than purchasing in smaller amounts.

How Much Weed is in a Pre-Rolled Joint?

Although quantity can vary, pre-rolled joints normally include between 0.5 and 1 gram of cannabis.

How Long Does a Gram of Weed Last?

Individual usage patterns determine this. A casual user may use up a gram over several days, but a habitual user may use it all in one day.

Are Weed Prices Likely to Change?

The cost of production, market saturation, and legislative changes are some of the variables that might affect weed prices. Due to an increase in supply, prices have generally trended lower in jurisdictions with legal marketplaces.

What is the most common weed measurement?

The gram (g) is the smallest unit used to buy cannabis. Small amounts are convenient and commonly utilized for personal use.

How much weed is in an eighth?

The eighth, or 1/8 ounce, comprises 3.5 grams of cannabis. People buy it for personal usage and it can make several joints or bowls.

What does a quarter of weed look like?

The cannabis content of a quarter is 7 grams. Modest consumers or those stocking up prefer it because it's double the size of an eighth.

How many grams are in an ounce of weed?

1 ounce of cannabis is 28 grams. Usually bought by heavy consumers or for long-term use. 

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What is the cost of an ounce of weed?

Quality, location, and legality affect the price of an ounce of cannabis. costs in legal markets might range from $100 to $400 or more, with higher costs suggesting higher quality.

How many joints can I roll with an ounce of weed?

The amount of joints an ounce of cannabis can roll varies on joint size and potency. If each joint includes 0.5 to 1 gram of cannabis, an ounce yields 28 to 56 joints.

What is a “dime bag”?

A “dime bag” is a $10 cannabis measurement. While dime bags vary in weight based on region and dealer discretion, they usually weigh around one gram.

How much weed is in a pound?

A pound of cannabis contains 16 ounces or 448 grams.

Can I mix and match weed measurements when purchasing?

Dispensaries and dealers often let consumers mix and match weed measurements. This flexibility lets clients buy the quantity they need and tailor their purchases to their budget and tastes.

Fred Hernandez - Cannabis industry expert writer
Fred Hernandez

Fred Hernandez is a highly accomplished and versatile writer, boasting an extensive background in the cannabis industry. With an in-depth understanding of various sectors including cultivators, processors, retailers, and brands, Fred's expertise spans across the entire cannabis landscape. As a prominent contributor to CTU, he consistently delivers insightful articles exploring the latest developments, news, and regulations shaping the cannabis industry. Whether it's delving into the intricacies of cannabis products, cannabis strain reviews, or providing comprehensive analyses of cannabis laws, or sharing expert insights on cannabis cultivation techniques, Fred's wealth of knowledge positions him as an invaluable writer and educator for all cannabis-related subjects.

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