Select, a flagship cannabis oil line under Curaleaf Holdings Inc., has made waves across the U.S. for its sleek branding, potent formulations, and wide availability in both medical and adult-use markets. As one of the most visible names in the vape cartridge space, Select promises high standards of purity, strength, and flavor. But do these claims hold up under scrutiny—and are the products worth the price for everyday consumers? Below is a breakdown of the pros, cons, and everything in between to help you decide whether Select is the right choice for your cannabis experience.
Pros
1. Strong safety and quality control
Select emphasizes clean formulations—no added PEGs, VG, PG, or vitamin E acetate—and states they surpass state pesticide and potency testing requirements. Their lab results and production transparency are frequently praised across dispensary listings and consumer feedback.
2. Potent, consistent effects
- Select Elite cartridges (80–95% THC) offer strong and fast-acting effects, making them ideal for experienced users seeking deep relaxation or sleep support.
- Elite Live options incorporate live-resin terpenes, offering a smoother, more flavorful hit with a broader cannabinoid spectrum. Consumers commonly describe the experience as strain-accurate and powerful.
3. Device convenience & design
- All cartridges are standard 510-thread compatible and come in well-engineered, durable packaging.
- Elite Live cartridges use ceramic cores with cotton wicks, offering a noticeably smoother draw and less clogging than some competitors.
- Many users praise the consistent vapor quality and long-lasting hardware, contributing to Select’s reputation for reliability.
4. Wide availability
As part of Curaleaf—one of the largest cannabis companies in North America—Select products are easily found in a wide range of dispensaries across legal states, making reordering or trying different strains convenient for most users.
Cons
1. Inconsistent quality & past controversies
While many users report high satisfaction, there have been anecdotal complaints about inactive cartridges and questionable lab results. Reddit discussions have highlighted a few cases of off-tasting oil or suspected additives, though not necessarily representative of the brand as a whole. A few Better Business Bureau complaints were also filed regarding defective or empty cartridges, some of which went unanswered.
2. Price point
Select Elite and Elite Live cartridges are positioned as premium products, with pricing often around $50–$60 for a 1g cart. For budget-conscious consumers, this may be a sticking point—especially when other brands offer similar potency for less.
3. Flavor vs potency trade-off
- Elite Live prioritizes flavor and terpene richness, but may have slightly lower THC percentages than Elite distillate cartridges.
- For those focused purely on potency, the distillate-based Elite line may be a better fit—but it sacrifices some of the nuanced flavor that live resin captures.
4. Availability varies by state
Despite the national reach, specific strains or product lines (such as Select Cliq pods or high-CBD options) may not be stocked evenly across regions, leading to frustration for loyal users trying to find their favorite products.
Verdict: Should Consumers Buy?
Yes—with some caution. Select offers a clean, potent, and consistent product line that stands out for hardware quality and effect reliability. The Elite Live line, in particular, shines for consumers who value rich terpene flavor and smooth vapor. However, pricing is on the higher end, and past quality complaints—though not systemic—should encourage buyers to inspect product details, check batch test results, and shop through verified dispensaries.
Ultimately, Select remains a solid choice for intermediate to advanced cannabis users who appreciate consistency, design, and strong effects. Beginners may prefer to explore smaller formats first or look into more cost-effective alternatives until they’ve found the right fit.