Arizer XQ2 vs Volcano Hybrid Vaporizer Comparison

We recently published a comparison post that highlighted the key differences between the Arizer XQ2 and the Volcano Classic. While the two desktop vaporizers managed to square off evenly, we didn’t really feel like it was a good apples to apples comparison. For starters, the Classic lacked the digital display and whip capabilities of the Arizer XQ2 not to mention a slew of customization options for user-defined presets.

It’s due to all that which brings us to today’s showdown: the Arizer XQ2 versus the Classic’s modern and more upbeat brother, the Volcano Hybrid. Not only does the Hybrid feature a digital display akin to the XQ2, it’s also capable of being used in whip mode. So without further ado, let’s get down to the details of these two hard hitting home vaporizers and see which one is the best fit for you!

Arizer XQ2 vs Volcano Hybrid Showdown

Table of contents

1. How it Works
2. Vapor Quality
3. Manufacturing Quality
4. Temperature Flexibility
5. Final Thoughts

Volcano Hybrid

Rating:

95%

51  Reviews

CAD 696.75

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How it Works

As its looks heavily indicate, the Volcano Hybrid ditches the analog style knob of the older Volcano Classic, and instead opts for an easier to read LCD display. Aside from featuring legibility in sub-optimal lighting conditions, the Volcano Hybrid’s LCD screen makes it easier to pinpoint your desired temperature settings on the fly with it’s dedicated inputs for increasing or reducing the vaporizer’s temperature settings.

The Arizer XQ2 sports a similar but more modern aesthetic with its inclusion of an LED screen which has the advantage of being crisper and easier to read. Where it falls behind however is its lack of bluetooth or app integration where it instead relies on a proprietary remote control that comes included with the kit. While easy enough to use, we still prefer the flexibility that a smartphone offers simply due to how ubiquitous these things are.

The Arizer XQ2 also features an RGB LED strip that lines the base of the vaporizer, giving it a modern flair that directly contrasts the retro-styling of the Volcano Hybrid. Both units also feature 360 degree whip capabilities making either a great option for using with friends or in a group.

Vapor Quality

As its name implies, one notable improvement that the Volcano Hybrid introduces is its hybrid convection/conduction heating system which results in a much fuller extraction. Not only does the Volcano Hybrid produce thicker and denser clouds compared to the Arizer XQ2, it does so at a much quicker pace. On average, the Volcano Hybrid gets up to temp at around 1-2 minutes compared to the 4-5 minute heat up time of the Arizer XQ2.

While the Arizer XQ2 was already a notable improvement over its predecessor, the Extreme Q, it still only manages to come in 2nd when compared to the full-flavored clouds that the Volcano Hybrid creates. This holds true regardless of when using either vaporizer in whip or balloon mode. 

For those who prefer to vaporize wax or concentrate over the standard dry herb, the Volcano Hybrid is the go-to choice. It’s compatibility with liquid pads make it the more convenient option for vaporizing shatter without any jury-rigging required. The Arizer XQ2 doesn’t have any official support for vaporizing concentrates unfortunately, so you’ll be stuck with vaporizing dry herb unless Arizer comes out with an official add-on accessory that changes this.

Manufacturing Quality

Just like any Storz & Bickel vaporizer, the Volcano Hybrid comes 2nd to none in terms of build quality. These things are built like tanks and it speaks volumes of Storz & Bickel’s reputation for quality when Volcano Classics from the early 2000’s are still chugging along to this day. Another strong point in favor of the Volcano Hybrid are its balloons or rather their respective mouthpieces that come included with the kit. Not only are these easier to use than their Arizer counterparts, but they’re more well made too.

None of this is to say that the Arizer XQ2 is of poor quality however. Given it’s significantly lower price point that’s almost a third of the MSRP of the Volcano Hybrid, the XQ2 is surprisingly robust and well-made. The glass attachments that come with the kit such as the connoisseur bowl are top-notch. Our only gripes are with the balloon mouthpieces and covers which seem more of an afterthought when compared to design and implementation of the Hybrid’s system. 

Temperature Flexibility

It’s honestly hard to go wrong with either of these two desktop vaporizers with their full-fledged precise temperature control. While the Volcano Hybrid does get up to temp significantly faster than the Arizer XQ2, those looking to vape on a budget and not willing to shell out almost triple the price of the XQ2 might not mind the longer heat up times.

While the remote control on the Arizer XQ2 is functional, we really wish it came with some type of support for bluetooth or app integration similar to what the Volcano Hybrid offers. We do like the dedicated fan control on the Arizer XQ2 though as this makes it remarkably simple and straightforward to transform the characteristics of a session on the fly.

Those vaporizing solo might find issue with the Volcano Hybrid large herb chamber and will thus have to purchase the optional chamber reducer add-on. The Arizer XQ2 on the other hand features a smaller chamber out of the box and is better suited for solo use or sharing with just 1 or 2 friends.

Final Thoughts

The Volcano Hybrid brings in a lot of improvements which make it a compelling choice over the original Volcano Classic. It’s hybrid heating system is also top-notch, delivering some of the best tasting and hardest hitting vapor we’ve yet to experience from a desktop vaporizer. All of these are not without its downsides unfortunately. It’s technical superiority over the Arizer XQ2 is without a doubt reflected in its price tag, fetching close to triple the amount of dollarydoos that the XQ2 commands.

If you’re on a strict budget, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with saving a buck by going for the Arizer XQ2. It performs well above average which is really impressive given it’s low asking price. It’s versatile with both whip and bag support. It’s simple controls and legible LED screen make it a solid option for anyone looking for a straightfoward desktop vaporizer

If you don’t mind parting with a bigger chunk of change however, we wholeheartedly recommend the Volcano Hybrid. It manages to tick off most, if not all the boxes requisite to a perfect home vaporizing setup. If you’re looking for solid build quality and vapor quality, this is it.