Published in cooperation between Levitated Media and the Gilroy Dispatch
Cannabis offers a wide variety of weed strains for different experiences. Some strains bring deep relaxation, while others boost energy and focus. Choosing the best weed strains depends a lot on personal needs, from chronic pain relief to recreational enjoyment.
The two primary types are indica dominant strains and cannabis sativa. Indica strains promote pain relief and manage anxiety with calming effects. Sativa strains deliver psychoactive effects that uplift mood and creativity. Hybrids blend both for a balanced high.
This guide covers the top 10 weed strains and where to buy their seeds. You’ll find expert recommendations to choose strains for relaxation, energy, flavor and other benefits.
Our 10 Best Weed Strains
Finding the best weed strains depends on your needs. Some offer deep relaxation, while others boost energy or manage anxiety. Users report different effects, from pain relief to creativity.
Each strain list below has unique characteristics and ranks as a staff pick or highest rating choice.
- Gorilla Glue 4—Best Weed Strain Overall (Best Choice)
- Acapulco Gold—Best Cannabis Sativa Strain
- Godfather OG—Best Medical Marijuana Strain for Chronic Pain
- Trainwreck Feminized—Best Hybrid Strain
- Strawberry Cough—Best Tasting Weed
- Granddaddy Purple—Best Indica Dominant Strain
- AK-47 Feminized—Most Popular Weed Strain
- Gelato Autoflower—Best Quality Weed
- Blue Haze Feminized—Most Common Strain of Weed
- Chocolope Fem—Best Weed to Smoke
Gorilla Glue 4—Best Weed Strain Overall (Best Choice)
Gorilla Glue 4 is a top-rated strain with 25-30 percent THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol), delivering strong psychoactive effects and deep relaxation. It’s known for its earthy, pine and sour flavor and has won multiple Cannabis Cup awards. This best-quality weed is ideal for users seeking euphoria, stress relief and long-lasting effects.
How Gorilla Glue 4 Fits Different Needs
Its balanced high suits both new users and medical patients. It provides pain relief, anxiety management and relaxation without excessive sedation. Ideal for evening use but manageable in low doses during the day.
Pros and Cons of Gorilla Glue 4
Pros:
- High THC content for strong effects
- Deep relaxation and pain relief
- Award-winning with a highest rating
- Balanced high for various users
Cons:
- Very potent, not ideal for beginners
- Can cause dry mouth and couch-lock
Acapulco Gold—Best Cannabis Sativa Strain
Acapulco Gold is a legendary sativa strain with 20-24 percent THC, offering a long-lasting, uplifting high. It’s a popular choice for enhancing mood, focus and creativity. Known for its sweet, toffee-like flavor, it’s a top-rated daytime strain for stress relief and energy.
How Acapulco Gold Is Good for Uplifting Experiences
Perfect for social settings, alone time, creative work, down time and daytime activities. Users report energizing effects that enhance motivation and reduce stress without drowsiness.
Pros and Cons of Acapulco Gold
Pros:
- Energizing, uplifting high for daytime use
- Great for stress relief and focus
- Unique caramel flavor
- Long-lasting effects
Cons:
- Can cause anxiety in sensitive users
- Rare strain, hard to find
Godfather OG—Best Medical Marijuana Strain for Chronic Pain
Godfather OG is a potent indica strain with CBD (Cannabidiol) and THC levels up to 34 percent. It’s a top choice for chronic pain relief, anxiety and insomnia. Known for its sedative effects, it provides full-body relaxation and long-lasting stress relief.
How Godfather OG Benefits Medical Marijuana Users
Ideal for severe pain, muscle tension and sleep disorders. It reduces inflammation, calms anxiety and promotes deep relaxation for medical patients.
Pros and Cons of Godfather OG
Pros:
- Strong pain relief for chronic conditions
- High THC content for lasting effects
- Great for sleep and anxiety
- Deep relaxation
Cons:
- Too sedating for daytime use
- Very strong, not beginner-friendly
Trainwreck Feminized—Best Hybrid Strain
Trainwreck Feminized is a perfect balance of indica and sativa, offering enhancing effects with a relaxing undertone. With 19-24 percent THC, it delivers creativity, focus and stress relief without overwhelming sedation. Users report its pine and citrus aroma adds to its unique characteristics. This versatile hybrid is ideal for both daytime energy and evening relaxation.
How Trainwreck Feminized Balances Effects
This hybrid blend provides an energizing start followed by a calm, relaxed finish. It enhances mental clarity while keeping the body at ease. The psychoactive effects are adaptable, making it a great choice for both recreational users and medical patients.
Pros and Cons of Trainwreck Feminized
Pros:
- Balanced hybrid suitable for day and night use
- Enhances focus and creativity
- Stress-relieving with mild relaxation
- Distinct pine and citrus aroma
Cons:
- Can cause dizziness or paranoia in high doses
- Inconsistent potency between batches
Strawberry Cough – Best Tasting Weed
Strawberry Cough is a sweet, fruity sativa with 20-25 percent THC, offering a smooth smoke and uplifting high. Its signature strawberry aroma makes it a top choice for flavor enthusiasts. This sativa-dominant strain provides a clear-headed, energetic buzz, making it ideal for daytime use.
How Strawberry Cough Enhances the Smoking Experience
This strain’s rich, berry flavor enhances the sensory appeal of smoking. Its smooth inhale and fruity aftertaste make it a favorite for connoisseurs seeking premium taste.
Pros and Cons of Strawberry Cough
Pros:
- Sweet, berry-rich flavor
- Smooth smoke with no harshness
- Uplifting and energetic effects
- Popular among daytime smokers
Cons:
- High demand makes it hard to find
- May cause dry mouth
Grandaddy Purple—Best Indica Dominant Strain
Grandaddy Purple is a classic indica dominant strain with 15-19 percent THC, known for deep relaxation and stress relief. It has a grape and berry flavor, delivering calming effects that help with sleep and anxiety. Users report it enhances relaxation while easing pain and tension.
How Granddaddy Purple Helps with Relaxation and Sleep
Its sedative effects make it ideal for nighttime use, promoting pain relief and deep relaxation. It’s a top choice for people managing stress, anxiety, depression and insomnia.
Pros and Cons of Granddaddy Purple
Pros:
- Promotes deep relaxation and sleep
- Soothes chronic pain and anxiety
- Rich grape and berry flavor
- Long-lasting calming effects
Cons:
- Not ideal for daytime use
- Can cause drowsiness
AK-47 Feminized—Most Popular Weed Strain
AK-47 Feminized is a top-rated strain with over 20 percent THC. Its balanced high makes it a popular choice for both recreational and medical users. Known for earthy aroma and smooth smoke, it remains a fan favorite for decades.
Why AK-47 Feminized Is a Fan Favorite
Its consistent effects suit all users. It uplifts people in mood while relaxing the mind and body, making it ideal for stress relief and focus.
Pros and Cons of AK-47 Feminized
Pros:
- Balanced effects for any occasion
- Reliable potency and long-lasting high
- Popular choice with strong aroma
Cons:
- Potency varies between batches
- Can cause dry mouth or mild paranoia
Gelato Autoflower—Best Quality Weed
Gelato Autoflower is a premium selection with up to 26 percent THC. It delivers strong effects, smooth smoke and sweet vanilla flavor. Known for award-winning genetics research, it’s a featured highest rating strain.
How Gelato Autoflower Delivers Premium Quality
Its potent high and terpene-rich profile makes it a top choice for relaxation and creativity. Consistent effects add to its popularity and premium status.
Pros and Cons of Gelato Autoflower
Pros:
- High THC content for a strong high
- Smooth smoke with rich flavor
- Reliable potency and premium genetics
Cons:
- Expensive compared to standard strains
- Limited availability due to demand
Blue Haze Feminized—Most Common Strain of Weed
Blue Haze Feminized is a reliable choice with 16-26 percent THC. Its smooth high and sweet berry aroma make it a go-to strain for many users. Easily available, it remains one of the most common strains of weed.
Why Blue Haze Feminized Is Popular and Reliable
Its predictable effects and wide availability make it perfect for new and experienced users looking for consistent potency.
Pros and Cons of Blue Haze Feminized
Pros:
- Consistent high with balanced effects
- Smooth smoke with pleasant flavor
- Easily available at most dispensaries
Cons:
- Moderate potency compared to other strains
- Common strain, not a unique pick
Chocolope Fem—Best Weed to Smoke
Chocolope Fem is a top choice for its smooth smoke, rich flavor and uplifting effects. With THC levels around 19-22 percent, it delivers a clear-headed, long-lasting high. Its sweet, coffee-like taste and balanced buzz make it a popular pick for recreational users.
Why Chocolope Fem Is the Best for Smoking
Its smooth inhale and flavorful exhale enhance the smoking experience. Perfect for day or night, it provides an enjoyable, mood-boosting high without overwhelming sedation.
Pros and Cons of Chocolope Fem
Pros:
- Smooth smoke with rich coffee flavor
- 19-22 percent THC for a balanced, uplifting high
- Great for social and solo use
Cons:
- Moderate potency, not for heavy users
- Can be pricey in some markets
What Are Weed Strains and Why Do They Matter?
Weed strains are varieties of the cannabis plant. Each offers unique effects, flavors and benefits. The primary categories include indica, sativa and hybrid strains.
Indica strains are typically associated with relaxing and calming effects. This makes them suitable for evening use. Sativa strains are often considered more invigorating and energizing, potentially enhancing the ability for creativity and social interaction. Hybrid strains combine characteristics of both indica and sativa. This aims to provide a balanced experience.
Choosing the right strain is important, as different strains can help address specific needs, like chronic pain, anxiety, or recreational enjoyment. This selection process involves considering each strain’s unique characteristics, psychoactive effects and how they may influence symptoms and mood.
How to Choose the Best Weed Strain
Selecting the best weed strain depends on personal preference, desired effects and tolerance. Consider THC vs. CBD content, with high THC causing strong psychoactive effects and low CBD offering calming effects. For chronic pain, strains like Godfather OG help. To manage anxiety, Granddaddy Purple works best. Sour Diesel is great for energy and creativity
Cannabis Strain Categories
- Indica: Known for deep relaxation, stress relief and sleep aid. Best for evening use and pain relief. Example: Blue Dream.
- Sativa: Provides an uplifting experience and mental stimulation. Used for depression, focus and daytime energy. Example: Sour Diesel.
- Hybrid: A balanced mix of indica and sativa, offering adaptable effects for day or night use. Example: Wedding Cake.
Strain Effects and Benefits
- Pain relief: Godfather OG and Ice Cream Cake help with chronic pain.
- Stress relief: Granddaddy Purple provides calming effects.
- Energy boost: Sour Diesel and Chocolope enhance focus and creativity.
- Mood improvement: Blue Dream and Strawberry Cough elevate happiness.
Strain Overview and Statisitical Data
Here’s a detailed examination of the weed strains we reviewed above. This includes their THC and CBD content, potential benefits and risks:
Gorilla Glue 4
- Hybrid
- 18-32 percent 6
- 0.05-0.1 percent 6
- Relaxation, euphoria, stress relief
- Anxiety, paranoia, dry mouth
- High THC content, may cause a strong “couch-lock” effect
Acapulco Gold Strain
- Sativa
- 23-24 percent 7
- 1 percent 7
- Euphoria, uplifting, creative
- Anxiety, paranoia, dry eyes
- Historically significant strain, known for its potency and unique golden color
God Father OG
- Indica
- 28 percent 8
- 0-1 percent 8
- Relaxation, pain relief, insomnia relief
- Drowsiness, dry mouth, dry eyes
- Award-winning Indica, may be helpful for pain management
Trainwreck Feminized Seeds
- Sativa
- 19-24 percent 9
- Not available
- Stress relief, creativity, energy boost
- Anxiety, paranoia, dizziness
- May provide a burst of energy and focus
Strawberry Cough
- Sativa
- 20-25 percent 10
- <1 percent 11
- Uplifting, energetic, pain relief, improved appetite
- Anxiety, paranoia, dry mouth
- Known for its sweet strawberry aroma and potential to alleviate mood disorders
Grand Daddy Purple
- Indica
- 15-19 percent 12
- Not available
- Relaxation, sleep aid, stress relief
- Drowsiness, dry mouth, dry eyes
- May promote relaxation and deep sleep
Ak-47 Feminized
- Hybrid
- Over 20 percent 13
- Not available
- Relaxation, euphoria, pain relief
- Anxiety, paranoia, dry mouth
- Potent strain, may cause a strong “one-hit wonder” effect
Gelato Autoflower
- Hybrid
- Up to 26 percent 14
- 0.3 percent 14
- Balanced effects, relaxation, euphoria
- Dry mouth, dry eyes, dizziness
- Offers a calming body high with an uplifting mental buzz
Blue Haze Feminized
- Indica
- 16-26 percent 15
- 1 percent 15
- Uplifting, stimulating, pain relief, headache relief
- Anxiety, paranoia, dizziness
- May alleviate pain and headaches due to its high THC content
Chocolope Fem
- Sativa
- Not available
- Not available
- Stress relief, mood elevation, energy boost
- Anxiety, paranoia, dry mouth
- May enhance creativity and focus
Methods of Cannabis Consumption and Their Effects
Cannabis can be consumed in various ways, each with its own potential effects and risks. This table summarizes different consumption methods.
Smoking (joints, blunts, pipes)
- Inhaling the smoke from burning cannabis flower
- Fast-acting effects
- Can harm lung health, may be harsh on the throat
Vaping (dry herb vaporizers, vape pens)
- Inhaling vaporized cannabis flower or concentrates
- May be less harmful to lungs than smoking, offers more precise temperature control
- Can still irritate the lungs, potential for device malfunction
Edibles (baked goods, candies, gummies)
- Eating or drinking cannabis-infused products
- Longer-lasting effects, avoids the risks of smoking
- Effects can take longer to appear, potential for overconsumption
Tinctures
- Consuming cannabis-infused alcohol or oils
- Can be added to food or drinks, offers precise dosing
- May have a strong taste, potential for high THC concentration
Topicals (lotions, balms, patches)
- Applying cannabis-infused products to the skin
- Localized relief for pain and inflammation, avoids psychoactive effects
- May not be as effective for some conditions, potential for skin irritation
Where to Buy the Best Weed Strains
Buying weed strains depends on location, legality and product quality. Licensed dispensaries, online seed banks and cannabis clubs offer the safest options.
- Licensed Dispensaries: Physical dispensaries provide lab-tested strains with detailed THC and CBD content. Staff can recommend indica, sativa, or hybrid strains based on needs.
- Online Seed Banks: Reputable sites ship seeds worldwide, offering high-THC strains like Gorilla Glue 4 or flavorful hybrids like Wedding Cake. Look for stealth shipping and germination guarantees.
- Cannabis Clubs & Delivery Services: In legal regions, cannabis lounges and delivery services provide a variety of pre-rolls, flower and concentrates.
- What to Watch For: Always check lab results, strain genetics and user reviews. Avoid black-market products, which may contain pesticides or inaccurate potency levels.
FAQs About Weed Strains
What’s the best strain of weed?
The best weed strain depends on personal preference. Sour Diesel is popular for energy, while Granddaddy Purple offers deep relaxation. Hybrid strains like Gelato provide a balanced high for pain relief and focus.
What is a top-shelf strain of weed?
A top-shelf strain features premium genetics, high potency and rich terpenes. Strains like Ice Cream Cake and Blue Dream have a highest rating due to potent effects and smooth flavor.
What are the best exotic weed strains?
Exotic strains stand out for unique genetics and rare flavors. Wedding Cake delivers sweet, creamy notes, while Chocolope has a chocolate-coffee aroma. ACDC is a high-CBD option for therapeutic use.
Which is better, sativa or indica?
Sativa strains offer an energizing, uplifting experience, perfect for daytime use. Indica strains promote calmness, deep relaxation and sleep aid. Hybrid strains balance both, suiting versatile users.
Conclusion and Final Recommendations
Choosing the best weed strains depends on desired effects and tolerance levels. Indica dominant strains like Godfather OG work for chronic pain relief, while sativa strains like Acapulco Gold enhance mood and creativity. Hybrid blends like Trainwreck offer a mix of both.
Explore different strains, consider THC and CBD levels, research and choose a reputable source for safe, high-quality cannabis.
Disclaimer: This article does not encourage readers to grow marijuana where it is not legal to do so. It is highly recommended to check legal questions before purchasing these products.
