The bong market has a large range of prices, from modest $5 acrylics to luxurious masterpieces topping $1,000.

On average, you might expect to drop around $50 for a decent piece in the U.S.

But remember, the price of a bong often mirrors its features, design complexity, and the craftsmanship invested in its creation.

Let’s dive deep into the details of bong pricing and uncover what really pumps up the price tag.

In the U.S., bong prices can vary dramatically depending on many factors, like the size, material and design.

Budget Bongs ($5-$30) – Think of these as the entry-level models. Budget bongs are typically made of cheaper materials, like plastic, acrylic, or thin glass that’s easily breakable. These bongs are pretty basic but get the job done. It’s unlikely they’ll come with features like percolators or diffusers, which makes these ideal for beginners or the occasional toking session.

Mid-Range Bongs ($30-$100) – Made of thicker, durable glass and better craftsmanship, bongs in this bracket might come equipped with simple percolators or diffusers for smoother hits. The quality is decent enough for regular use.

High-End Bongs ($100-$300) – These bongs are usually crafted with thick, top-tier borosilicate glass and feature complex percolators like honeycomb or showerhead designs that deliver ultra-smooth, filtered hits. You may get lucky and find your local glassblower making these.

Premium Bongs ($300+) – The cream of the crop, these bongs are often creations from known glassblowers or artists. They stand out with elaborate designs and custom artwork, and prices can soar into the thousands, especially for one-of-a-kind pieces.

Size

When it comes to bongs, size definitely matters. Smaller bongs are generally cheaper since they use less materials and have simpler designs. Compact models can range from 6 to 8 inches tall, and larger sizes can reach over 14 inches. As the size increases, so does the complexity or the amount of glass needed, which hikes up its price.

Material

The backbone of any bong is the materials used to make them. Plastic or acrylic options are easy on your wallet and not a big deal if they break. Glass, especially the tough borosilicate kind, is the top choice for its clean taste, though it does cost a bit more. If you’re a bit clumsy, silicone bongs are a solid bet—durable, still colorful, and reasonably priced.

Design and Features

A bong’s design intricacies, such as twisty tubes or fancy percolators, aren’t just aesthetic. These features enhance your smoking experience but require more craftsmanship, bumping up the price. If you’re keeping an eye on your budget, go for a simple, straight-tubed bong.

Want something that stands out? Limited edition designs or custom artwork by renowned artists can make your bong into a prized collector’s item, skyrocketing its value.

Plus, other features like ice or ash catchers can improve filtration and the smoothness of hit, but may also mean spending a few extra dollars.

Before splashing out on a new bong, take a moment to consider your smoking habits and what you expect from your sessions.

If you’re a beginner or an occasional toker, a budget-friendly bong under $30 will likely serve you well. These are straightforward and functional—perfect for casual use.

For the more committed toker, a mid-range or high-end bong will give you lasting durability and smoother, more filtered hits thanks to better materials and intricate percolators.

But, if you plan to use your bong as a functional centrepiece, then treating yourself to a premium bong over $300 could be worth every penny.

Ultimately, matching your budget to your level of interest, usage, and preferred features will determine how much you should spend.