In 2025, online cannabis delivery has cemented itself as a mainstream shopping channel. With e-commerce platforms and mobile-first dispensaries, consumers are favoring convenience, discretion, and variety. According to a recent report, e-commerce-enabled dispensaries saw a 47% rise in recreational delivery orders in 2024—a trend that continues into this year.
Two delivery front‑runners—vapes and edibles—have emerged as top contenders for domination. Which one leads the pack?
Vapes: The Speedy Choice
The cannabis vaporizer market is experiencing steady growth. It’s projected to expand from US $5.05 billion (2024) to $5.81 billion (2025), with a 15% CAGR. Vapes offer quick onset (seconds to minutes) and controlled dosing—perfect for busy consumers.
With declining in-store prices—vape cartridges slipped ~15% in New York in early 2025—consumers are finding more value in vape purchases inside delivery orders. The convenience of discreet packaging, combined with online deals, further bolsters their appeal.
Takeaways for vapes:
- Rapid onset and targeted dosing
- Improved affordability amid increased supply
- Discreet, mobile-friendly packaging
Edibles: The Slow-Burn Favorite
Edibles represent the fastest-growing cannabis segment. Globally, the edible market grew from $12.3 billion in 2024 to an estimated $14.8 billion in 2025, with nearly 16% annual growth. In the U.S., edibles made up nearly 86% of North American edible sales in 2024.
A 2025 consumer report shows 58% of cannabis users consider edibles their primary method. THC gummies, in particular, have gained popularity—praised for convenience, pre-dosing, and odorless consumption.
While an edible’s effect takes longer (30–90 minutes), consumers appreciate the sustained, predictable high. Plus, creative formulations—beverages, chocolates, baked goods—are expanding broad appeal. Online delivery platforms often bundle edibles with exclusive flavors and dosage formats.
Head to Head: Consumer Insight
Delivery Speed & Onset
- Vapes: Almost instant gratification—ideal for stress relief or quick sessions.
- Edibles: Slow onset, but longtime effects—the go-to for relaxed, extended experiences.
Discretion & Portability
- Vapes: Compact, odor-minimal pens are easy to conceal.
- Edibles: Completely flavor-neutral and discreet—no tell-tale scent.
Value & Dosing Precision
Online retailers frequently offer value packs. Vapes are more affordable due to falling wholesale costs. But edibles win on precision: gummies and bars are pre-dosed, reducing guesswork and potential overconsumption.
Preference by Demographic
Younger demographics, especially under 35, often keep both methods in rotation based on setting. Older consumers and wellness users lean toward edibles for their therapeutic profile and non-inhalation format.
Market Share in Delivery
Although precise category share data is scarce, aggregated industry signals suggest:
| Category | Strengths | Growth Signals |
|---|---|---|
| Vapes | Fast effect, portable | $5.8B in 2025, price drops, 15% CAGR |
| Edibles | Long-lasting, precise dosing | $14.8B in 2025, 16% CAGR, 58% primary method |
Edibles currently hold a slight lead in revenue and consumer mindshare, especially via delivery.
Final Verdict
As of mid-2025:
- Edibles edge out in overall delivery dominance—buoyed by strong growth, broad adoption, and discreet convenience.
- Vapes remain critical—especially for consumers seeking speed and portability.
Bottom line: For consumers, vapes offer rapid effects and flexibility; edibles deliver precision, longevity, and an easy-entry format. For delivery platforms, offering both—and highlighting combos like “vape + gummy bundles”—is key to capturing the well-rounded, convenience-seeking 2025 shopper.
In a landscape shaped by evolving preferences, regulatory alignment, and logistics, the takeaway is clear: diversified delivery menus rule the day. Vapes and edibles each lead in their niche, but together, they define the future of cannabis e-commerce.
Discover: Fast or Reliable? Cannabis Consumers Weigh Delivery Priorities