Delta-8 vs. Delta-9 vs. Delta-10 THC

Delta-8, Delta-9, and Delta-10 are all different THC forms. While the THC found in cannabis plants is typically Delta 9-THC, Delta-8, and Delta-10 compounds are found more abundantly in hemp plants. 

There tends to be a lot of confusion between these compounds, so we’re here to break down the differences and help you better understand Delta-8 vs. Delta-9 vs. Delta-10 THC!

Delta-8 vs. Delta-9 vs. Delta-10: What’s the Difference?

Delta-8 and Delta-10 THC are minor cannabinoids that naturally occur in both cannabis and hemp plants. They both have psychoactive effects like their much more famous cannabinoid cousin, Delta-9 THC, but they also have many other unique characteristics that give users a slightly different experience. 

Effects of Delta-8 vs. Delta-9 vs. Delta-10

Delta-8 is often called the “light beer” of Delta-9 because of its similar effects but at a much milder rate. Delta-8 users often report a mellow high and fewer problems with paranoia and anxiety. They describe Delta-8 as being good for relaxing in the evening or hanging out on the couch. 

Delta-10 is often described as giving users a more energized experience that doesn’t have a sluggish effect. Some say the high is a more subtle buzz that allows them to maintain their daily productivity, enhance their creative work, or thrive in social settings. 

Delta-9 has a higher potency than both Delta-9 and Delta-10, delivering more robust and intense effects. 

Is Delta-8, Delta-9, or Delta-10 The Strongest?

Delta-9 is the strongest of the different cannabinoids. Delta-8 is then thought to be about half of the potency of Delta-9. However, to make up for this difference in potency, Delta-8 products will often contain a higher milligram count than their Delta-9 counterparts. Delta-10 is the least studied of the three, so there is not yet a general potency that is widely agreed upon. 

Delta-8 vs. Delta-9 vs. Delta-10: Their Chemical Makeup

The reason that Delta 8, 9, and 10 all have similar effects on the body is that at their core, they are all tetrahydrocannabinol compounds with almost exactly the same chemical structure. 

All three Delta’s have double carbon atom rings, but the bond occurs in a different place on each. Delta-8 has its double bond on the eighth carbon atom of the chain, while Delta-9 is on the ninth carbon atom, and Delta-10 is on the 10th carbon atom. The location of the double bond on Delta-9 means it is capable of making a stronger binding affinity with our brain and nervous system receptors, explaining why it's more potent. 

Legality of Delta-8 vs. Delta-9 vs. Delta-10

Are Delta-8, Delta-9, and Delta-10 Legal?

Under the Federal Farm Bill of 2018, Delta-8,-9, and -10 are all federally legal as long as it is hemp-derived and less than 0.3% THC dry weight. However, some states have their own laws concerning cannabinoids, so it's best to check with your local officials for more in-depth regional information. Some of the states where Delta-8, Delta-9, and Delta-10 products are allowed include Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and many more. 

Will Delta-8, Delta-9, or Delta-10 Show Up On a Drug Test?

Unfortunately, yes. Due to Delta-8, -9, and -10 being so chemically similar, modern drug tests aren’t able to differentiate between the three. Hopefully, one day they will be more advanced, but until then, you will fail most drug tests if you have recently consumed Delta-8, -9, or -10. 

How To Consume Delta-8 vs. Delta-9 vs. Delta-10

There are countless ways to use Delta-8 products from flower, vapes, pre-rolls, syrups, gummies, infused drinks, and more. Delta-10 is often available in a similar variety of offerings. As the demand for Delta-THC products grows daily, so do the available product options as different creative brands come up with new unique innovations. 

Delta-9, on the other hand, is limited in its selection due to the 0.3% dry weight limitations. Therefore, you will see Delta-9 gummies and edibles, but other typical forms of consumption are still illegal at the federal level. 

Find Your Favorite Delta-THC Products at Classic City Hemp!

Now that you have a better understanding of Delta-8, -9, and -10, next time you're in the Athens, GA area, head over to Classic City Hemp! We have a specially curated section of naturally derived 100% hemp products to meet your wellness, recreation, and relaxation needs.



From sippable drinks to delicious gummies, infused pantry items, and more, we’ve got you covered with all the Delta-THC products you’re looking for. We even offer free delivery over $35 in the local Athens area as well as shipping to select states. Start — or continue — your hemp journey with us!