Volcano Hybrid vs Volcano Classic – Worth the cost?

Updated: October 6, 2023
The legendary Volcano vaporizer was released now two decades ago, way back in 1999. The Volcano Classic still enjoys strong sales even today with nearly no changes being made to the original design. The Volcano Digit was subsequently released a few years back with a more modern twist, and the new Volcano Hybrid was released just this year with some major adjustments.

With a new dynamic heating system, Bluetooth app integration, and large price tag, is the Volcano Hybrid worth the addition cost? Check out our comparison of the Volcano Hybrid vs. Volcano Classic here in our review to help determine the best desktkop vape for you!

If you’re looking for your first desktop dry herb vaporizer, make sure to check out our nifty Vaporizer Buyers Guide which was made to help getting started easier!

Volcano Hybrid vs Volcano ClassicVolcano Hybrid vs Volcano Classic Review


Volcano Hybrid vs Volcano Classic power controlTemperature Flexibility

Both devices have complete temperature control, the Volcano Classic adjusting via rotating dial while the Volcano Hybrid can be adjusted on the device in individual degree increments or with the wireless application. Sure they both cover a similar temperature range of 40°C-230°C, or 104°F-446°F, however the full and accurate control of the Volcano Hybrid can’t be matched by the relatively inaccurate guesstimation of the temperature dial.

The new Volcano Hybrid also has much quicker heating, taking less than 45 seconds while the Volcano Classic really only starts to shine after it has had 3-5 minutes to properly warm up.

To add to that, the in-depth settings found on the Volcano Hybrid in the app offers a wide array of functions and heating options which can yield you awesome results vapor quality-wise! Point for the Volcano Hybrid here!


Volcano Hybrid vs Volcano Classic mouth pieceVapor Quality

The Volcano Classic set the standard for the better part of a decade in terms of vapor quality. With purely convection heating, the flavor is solid with great extraction and top-notch density, however, the new and improved dynamic heating found on the Volcano Hybrid really sets the new standard. Not to mention that the optional Volcano Filling Chamber Reducer makes the Hybrid a viable option for those looking to vape solo.

With the new Volcano Hybrid Filling Chamber, extraction is even more complete, vapor density is better, and with fine-tuning, the flavor is much better. To add to that, you have the versatility of the whip alongside the Volcano vaporizer bag system, which is something that the Volcano Classic doesn’t have. Both are well capable of vaporizing wax with the help of a Volcano concentrate pad, but in this regard the Hybrid still manages to eke out the Classic as well.

By no means is the Volcano Classic a slouch, even by today’s standards, but we can see why Storz & Bickel favors the new dynamic heating system, and the Volcano Hybrid definitely takes the point in the vapor quality aspect.

Volcano Hybrid vs Volcano Classic front displayManufacturing Quality

A tried and tested titan, the Volcano Classic has a strong reputation for being built incredibly well. A huge amount of people have reported getting over a decade of service from their Volcano Classic Vaporizer and many people even just leave the device on all the time, even though we don’t recommend doing that at all.

The new Volcano Hybrid hasn’t really been put through the paces yet, but we can only assume the best considering the reputation Storz & Bickel has earned over the years. It would be a tie in this aspect, however, the new features found on the Hybrid really makes the overall manufacturing quality and experience better. Another point to the Volcano Hybrid.

Volcano Hybrid vs Volcano Classic in useEase of Use

Both units are quite simple to use, designed for both veterans and beginners alike. They both function in a similar way and both yield great results. Cleaning is very similar on both units and it’s hard to pick a winner between the two in this aspect.

There are more settings and features to fiddle with on the Volcano Hybrid, however, there is a mild learning curve associated with it all. We give neither device a clear win in this category.

Volcano Hybrid vs Volcano Classic discreetnessDiscreetness

Both the Volcano Classic Vaporizer and Volcano Hybrid look like some new-fangled, strange Sci-Fi tech when in use. I mean really, think of a single thing on earth that fills some strange bags with a cloudy mixture, all coming out of some shiny metallic cone.

Obviously, since they’re both devices meant to be used at home, you won’t have to worry about strange looks and whatnot from people on the streets, but these two units are probably the least stealthy thing you can think of aside from just taking a thick rip from a water pipe. No winner here!

Volcano Hybrid vs Volcano Classic full kit

Overall Experience

They’re both great devices and there’s a reason the Volcano Classic has enjoyed the success it has. With that being said, the Volcano Hybrid is a clear improvement in almost every form.

Its heat-up time is much better, the temperature control is far more versatile and effective, the vapor quality is better across the board, the wireless function provides great function, and the ability to use a whip for direct-draw really makes the Volcano Hybrid a no-brainer – if you have the cash to dump.

If you already have a Volcano, then it’s up to you if you want to upgrade. Is it $700 better? Certainly not. With the Easy Valve replacement set, these things last a lifetime and perform at the top of the game but the Volcano Hybrid really does have a clear performance and overall experience edge over the Classic.

For those who want to save a bit of cash instead, we do recommend checking our Volcano Classic review as it discusses the finer details of the device.

If you’re looking at a Volcano and have the cash to dump, we say go for it – either you’ll love it or you’ll really enjoy it at worst! We love the new Volcano Hybrid and Storz & Bickel really made all the improvements we wanted to see in the existing models. A great device indeed!

If you’re in the market for a similar yet budget desktop vaporizer, feel free to check out the Arizer Extreme Q. Our Arizer Extreme Q review also highlights the similarities with Volcano vaporizers and why it might be a good buy.

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About Author
Avatar for Alex Karakatsanis

Alex is a cannabis enthusiast, long time vaporizer lover, writer and filmmaker. He is also a board and video game nerd with a penchant for hosting a weekly board game night. Partygoers have been heard saying things like “is anyone else going to show up?” and “I don’t think I can make it next week”. He strives to make people laugh at every opportunity and sees cannabis as a helpful tool in doing so.

The reviews and ratings are based on personal and decade-plus of industry experience. Such content is based on the opinion of the Editor/Author. They are solely provided as a basis for research and should be used only as guidance. We encourage thorough research by all visitors to attain the most objective viewpoint before purchasing.