The cannabinoid industry has been booming ever since CBD gained popularity. Companies isolate and produce a wide variety of cannabinoids for consumption, including delta 8 THC and delta 10 THC, two analogs of standard THC.

Delta 8 THC has about half the potency of delta 9 THC (THC), and delta 10 THC has an even less psychoactive effect.

This article discusses the differences between these naturally occurring compounds, including the legality, cost, effects when consumed, and more.

What’s the Difference Between Delta 8 THC and Delta 10 THC?

Delta 8 THC and delta 10 THC are both found in hemp and marijuana plants. These cannabinoids’ chemical composition is similar to delta 9 THC, the main psychoactive component in marijuana.

However, there are numerous differences to note when considering these two compounds:

D8 vs. D10 THC: Effect Profile

Most delta 8 THC and delta 10 THC users note significant differences in the effects each has on the mind and body.

Many people say that neither delta 8 nor delta 10 THC has the same potency as delta 9 THC. They’re more “manageable,” especially for new users, and far less likely to cause the individual to feel overwhelmed by the psychoactive effects.

Delta 8 THC is comparable to indica marijuana strains, typically creating a more relaxed and sleepy feeling. Delta 8 users might feel a bit lazy, so it’s usually better for use at night or after work.

Delta 10 THC is similar to sativa strains of marijuana. Users note that it gives an uplifting feeling and increases drive and motivation.

Delta 8 and delta 10 THC can prompt feelings of happiness without triggering anxiousness or paranoia, which is a common side effect of using delta 9 THC.

D8 vs. D10 THC: Legality

Although delta 9 THC is illegal in many states, delta 8 THC and delta 10 THC remain legal federally and in most areas of the United States, even where recreational marijuana is illegal.

The Federal Farm Bill of 2018 states that hemp containing less than 0.3% THC (delta 9) by weight is legal to grow, sell, and possess on a federal level. This includes any compounds derived from hemp, like delta 8 THC and delta 10 THC.

Both delta 8 and delta 10 are illegal in several areas on the state level.

D8 vs. D10 THC: Cost 

Delta 8 THC is significantly less expensive than delta 10 THC. Although delta 8 naturally occurs in hemp plants in far greater volumes, this availability isn’t to blame for the cost difference — both are usually isomerized from CBD.

Delta 8 THC is currently more popular, so there’s a much larger market for it. Manufacturers can comfortably mass-produce it. On the other hand, delta 10 THC has a small following at this time. Fewer customers mean fewer manufacturers, which means less competition and naturally higher prices.

The pricing of these two cannabinoids will likely equal out once both have established a similar user base and delta 10 can be mass-produced.

D8 vs. D10 THC: Market Availability

As mentioned above, delta 8 THC is more popular throughout the United States right now. There are more delta 8 manufacturers, which means it’s more readily available.

Vendors and retailers don’t have to be as concerned about delta 8 THC products taking up shelf space and not selling, simply because of the prominent market.

Delta 10 THC is produced by far fewer companies, making it less available. Fewer vendors and retailers carry it because every inch of shelf space is precious, and they’ll get more sales from stocking more popular products.

D8 vs. D10 THC: Dosage

The standard dosage for delta 8 THC and delta 10 THC is the same: between 25 and 50 mg. Some users may feel the desired effects with just 10 mg, while others might need over 50 mg.

The dose ultimately depends on your experience and tolerance and what effects you’re wanting. Any psychoactive substance is more powerful for a beginner than it is for a regular user.

Other factors also need to be considered, such as weight and size.

Beginners should start small and slowly increase until they find their desired dosage. A 10-20 mg dose is ideal for a beginner or someone with a low tolerance. A regular user typically takes 20-50 mg. An experienced or frequent user of either THC analog often consumes 50-100 mg.

D8 vs. D10 THC: Chemical Structure

Delta 8 THC and delta 10 THC are THC analogs; they resemble the standard delta 9 THC in their chemical composition.

The primary difference on a chemical level is the location of the double bond in the carbon chain. As the names suggest, the double bond occurs on the ninth carbon bond in delta 9 THC, the eighth in delta 8 THC, and the tenth in delta 10 THC.

These slight differences affect how the cannabinoids interact with your body’s cannabinoid receptors. All three primarily bond with what is referred to as CB1 receptors, but to varying degrees, which is why the psychoactive effects of delta 8 and delta 10 are less intense than delta 9.

Can Delta 8 & Delta 10 THC Cause a Failed Drug Test?

Delta 8 THC and delta 10 THC can both cause you to fail a drug test.

A drug test only determines if you have THC metabolites present in your body, which are byproducts of the chemical reactions that take place as your body processes THC.

Your body produces these THC metabolites to process delta 8 THC, delta 9 THC, and delta 10 THC. Hence, any of these compounds entering your system can trigger a failure on a drug test.

D8 vs. D10: What Should I Buy?

Delta 8 and delta 10 THC are both excellent options for those looking for a relaxing, uplifting, or psychoactive experience but are unable or unwilling to use delta 9 THC. 

Delta 8 and delta 10 analogs are better options for many people because they’re more widely legal and are less likely to trigger the unwanted side effects often associated with delta 9 THC.

Those who want to feel relaxed and relieve stress are better off with delta 8 THC. Delta 8 is more mellow and soothing than the other cannabinoids.

If you’re looking for an uplifting and pleasant psychoactive experience, delta 10 THC is probably your best bet. Most users maintain that delta 10 is best for morning or mid-day use.

If you’re unsure which you’ll prefer, you should try both and see which suits you better. Some users think they’ll enjoy one over the other only to find that the exact opposite is true.

D8 vs. D10 THC: Which One is Better?

Both are great options; what’s better depends on which effects you’re after.

If you want something that won’t hinder your work, try delta 10 THC. If you’re hoping to wind down for the day, use delta 8 THC.

For best results, buy from a trustworthy vendor that tests each product. Third-party testing is the only guarantee you’re buying a potent and safe product. These vendors are easy to find online.

Besides that, delta 8 and delta 10 are equal in their potential and easily implemented into your day.