Arizer XQ2 vs Volcano Classic Vaporizer Comparison

With the Arizer XQ2 hitting shelves all over, this brand new desktop vaporizer is making waves as another lower-cost alternative to popular options such as the Volcano. Today we’ll be squaring off the Arizer XQ2 against a tried and true mainstay in the vaping industry, the Volcano Classic.

While the original Extreme Q had a good run against Storz & Bickel’s desktop champion, the Volcano eventually triumphed thanks to its superior extraction and overall ease of use. Will the Arizer XQ2 manage to take away the Volcano Classic’s figurative crown? Find out in our exclusive showdown right below!

Arizer XQ2 vs Volcano Classic Showdown

Table of contents

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

Arizer XQ2

Rating:

89%

32  REVIEWS

USD 142.94

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How it Works

While the Arizer XQ2 and Volcano Classic are both popular flagship vaporizers, they do vary a bit in terms of features, versatility, and overall functionality. For starters, the Arizer XQ2 feels more like a combination of the Volcano Hybrid and Digit when weighing in all the features offered. The LED screen on the Arizer XQ2 is a good example of this with its stark contrast to the very straightforward analog temperature dial on the Volcano Classic.

Another area where the Arizer XQ2 deviates from the Volcano Classic is its ability to be used with a whip system which is something that only the Volcano Hybrid is capable of. The Arizer XQ2 also comes with a remote control that lets you dial in your temperature settings without having to be within arms reach of the device.

Both vaporizers utilize conduction heating to vaporize dry herb and work very similarly in terms of operation and setup although the Volcano Classic is a bit easier to use bags with. The Volcano Classic also accommodates a lot more dry herb with its larger chamber which makes it a better option for sharing.

Vapor Quality

Despite its age and high price tag, the Volcano Classic vaporizer has managed to maintain its position as one of the best performing and most recommended desktop vaporizers around. The vapor produced by the Volcano Classic feels light yet flavorful, and most importantly wasn’t harsh at all while still packing a huge punch. Concentrate connoisseurs will appreciate the compatibility of the Volcano Classic as well thanks to the included Volcano drip pad.

The Arizer XQ2 is a definite upgrade over the older Extreme Q, especially in regards to vapor extraction. The vapor produced by the XQ2 feels dense and brims with flavor thanks to the relatively narrow all-glass vapor pathway and chamber although this can be tweaked by adjusting the fan speed settings on the device.

Comparing the two vaporizers on hand, it’s hard to decide on a definite winner as far as vapor quality goes. It’s easier to get more satisfying and consistent results with the Volcano Classic. The Arizer XQ2 in comparison offers a bit more variety when it comes to how you can enjoy your herb although it does take a bit of finagling with your setup and settings to get it to give you the desired result.

Manufacturing Quality

Pretty much everything that comes from Storz & Bickel is unrivaled when it comes to lasting power and that goes doubly so for the Volcano Classic. This thing was literally designed and first built over 20 years ago and has seen little to no changes in its design or overall construction since then. More than a few Volcano’s operating today are over a decade old which is testament to its quality and durability that few other manufacturers can compete with. 

Arizer is no slouch however and has had a very good track record of releasing robust vaporizers that have managed to last years. While it’s too early to make a conclusion on how well built our test unit of the Arizer XQ2 is, it’s safe to say that it doesn’t offer the same level of “premium-ness” that the Volcano Classic is known for. 

The bag system of the Arizer XQ2 has been marginally improved over the janky experience of the Arizer Extreme Q which used to involve rubber bands to seal off the bag. We still prefer the overall quality and ease of use that the Volcano bags offer. Not only do they provide a better seal, but they also don’t require manually closing it off whenever you’re not inhaling.

Temperature Flexibility

The Arizer XQ2 and Volcano Classic both sport a similar upper range of temperatures so you’re likely not going to have any issue achieving a warmer or more toasty vape. For micro-dosing and flavor chasers, however, the Arizer XQ2 is the better pick thanks to its lower available temperature setting which bottoms out at 50°C while the Volcano Classic only offers a lowest setting of 130°C.

Also, keep in mind that the Volcano Classic has a much larger herb chamber which might not be ideal for personal users who don’t typically vape a lot of dry herb in one go. Unless you pick up the optional chamber reducer, users might find themselves vaping a lot more product than what they’re comfortable with. In contrast to this, the Arizer XQ2 features a much smaller herb chamber with its connoisseur bowl and is easier to enjoy for solo sessions.

Final Thoughts

While the Volcano Classic is definitely the safer buy between both desktop vaporizers, it’s also sold at almost double the price of the Arizer XQ2 and doesn’t offer as much flexibility with the lack of whip support and a relatively high minimum temperature. The tradeoff however is a more straightforward vaping experience thanks to the analog controls which take no time to get familiar with.

The Arizer XQ2 in comparison requires a slightly higher learning curve in order to get optimal results but offers more modern features such as a LED screen, a more visible indicator light, and glass hardware that lets you vape with both whip and balloon setups. We’re also big fans of the dedicated fan speed control button which allows for easy and on-demand tweaking of your session.

We’re going to have to sum it up with a tie between the two as it mostly boils down to personal preference and budget. Those looking for tried and tested stationary vaporizers and aren’t afraid to spend more might be more inclined to pick up the Volcano Classic. If you’re on a budget and are looking for a no compromise setup that offers a host of updated and modern features, the Arizer XQ2 just might be the way to go.