Key Takeaways
- Low odor strains produce minimal smell during vaping (or growing), potentially safe(er) if you live in an apartment building
- Northern Lights and Blue Mystic are the most reliable low-smell options for beginners (I personally prefer Jack Herer, tho)
- Optimal low-odor vaping temps range from 350-410°F depending on the strain (so low temp, even with these strains)
- Smoking is an option, but the smell tends to be a bit stronger and it’s also more recognizable as actual ‘smoke’
So you want to enjoy your cannabis at home without the neighbors calling the cops on you?
I getchu – it’s a real possibility these days, especially in crowded apartment buildings where odors… well, waft up, down, and sideways.
And because a lot of cannabis strains smell like a gasoline-covered skunk that took a nosedive into a pile of fresh pine needles… the struggle to keep your habit low-odor is real.
Don’t get me wrong – I love me some Sour Diesel. It’s amazing… but less so when you’re trying to keep things low-key. For example, if you live in an apartment building and a) your lease prohibits consumption (even outside, pfft) or b) you have some crazy-ass neighbors who’ll call the cops – or the landlord – on you at the slightest whiff of the ganja.
The good news? There are legit low-odor strains that’ll give you the same quality high without broadcasting your business to everyone within a three-block radius. I’ve been testing these strains for years (it’s literally my job), and I’m about to break down the 7 best options that actually work.
Get Your Hands On a DHV That Minimizes Odor!
Click Here to Order Your OG Jams Today
[Pssst – you’re covered with our industry-leading lifetime warranty. Always.
Even if you run over your vaporizer with a car. Talk about risk-free!]
Why Some Strains Smell Less Than Others
Before we dive into the strains, let’s talk about why some cannabis smells like it could wake the dead while others are more… neighborly.
It all comes down to terpenes – the aromatic compounds that give each strain its unique smell. Strains with high levels of myrcene (the skunky one) are going to reek. Low-odor strains either have:
- Lower overall terpene content
- Different terpene profiles that don’t scream “WEED!”
- Genetics specifically bred for discretion
Important note: “Low odor” doesn’t mean “no odor.” These strains still smell – they just don’t smell like traditional cannabis.
| Terpene | Smell | Found in Low-Odor Strains? |
| Myrcene | Skunky, musky | Usually minimal |
| Pinene | Pine, fresh | Common |
| Limonene | Citrus, fresh | Very common |
| Caryophyllene | Spicy, peppery | Sometimes |
The 7 Best Low Odor Cannabis Strains
1. Northern Lights
The OG stealth champion. If there’s one strain that’s earned its reputation as the king of low-odor cannabis, it’s Northern Lights.
This nearly-pure indica has been the go-to for discrete growers and users since the 1980s. During growth, it produces a generic, almost herbal smell rather than that telltale cannabis funk. When you smoke or vape it, you get sweet, earthy flavors with hints of pine – pleasant but not screaming “marijuana.”
Strain Profile:
- THC Content: 16-21% (some phenotypes up to 27%)
- Best Dabbed/Vaped At: 375-400°F for balanced effects, 350-375°F for flavor
- Expected Potency: Medium-high, deeply relaxing
- Flavor and Purity: Sweet pine, earthy, slightly spicy with herbal undertones
- Best Used With: Standard dry herb vaporizers, concentrate pens, traditional rigs
- Effects: Heavy body relaxation, euphoria, sleepy (perfect for nighttime)
Why it works: Northern Lights was specifically bred for indoor growing and naturally produces fewer smell-heavy terpenes while maintaining incredible potency.
2. Blue Mystic
The fruity phantom. This indica-dominant hybrid is like the Clark Kent of cannabis strains – completely unassuming until you actually try it.
Blue Mystic smells like blueberries and earth instead of traditional cannabis. Many users say it’s so mild that it actually improves the smell of their grow room or smoking area. Don’t let the pleasant aroma fool you though – this strain packs a serious punch.
Strain Profile:
- THC Content: 15-21%
- Smells like: ADD
- Best Dabbed/Vaped At: 365-390°F for full flavor profile
- Expected Potency: Medium-high, relaxing with mild euphoria
- Flavor and Purity: Sweet blueberry, earthy, slight spice on exhale
- Best Used With: Dry herb vapes (excellent flavor), e-rigs, standard glass pieces
- Effects: Calming body high, creativity boost, mild couch-lock
Real talk: Some growers report Blue Mystic can still get smelly in late flower, but it’s nothing compared to your typical indica.
3. Durban Poison
The energizing ghost. Here’s where things get interesting – a pure sativa that’s almost odorless during growth but delivers serious daytime energy.
This South African landrace is practically scentless while growing, then develops a spicy, citrusy aroma after curing that’s more like licorice candy than traditional weed. Perfect for morning sessions when you need to function.
Strain Profile:
- THC Content: 15-20% (with high THCV content)
- Best Dabbed/Vaped At: 380-410°F for energetic effects
- Expected Potency: Medium-high, very cerebral and energizing
- Flavor and Purity: Spicy citrus, licorice-like, earthy undertones
- Best Used With: Portable vapes for on-the-go, dab pens, small rigs
- Effects: Mental clarity, energy boost, creativity, focus
Pro tip: The THCV content in Durban Poison can actually suppress appetite, making it great for productive daytime use.
4. Jack Herer
The all-day champion. Named after the famous cannabis activist, this strain is as legendary for its effects as it is for its discretion.
Jack Herer produces a sweet, earthy smell that many describe as “caramel-like” rather than the typical cannabis funk. It’s been a medical favorite for decades because patients can medicate without the telltale odor.
Strain Profile:
- THC Content: 15-24%
- Best Dabbed/Vaped At: 370-400°F for balanced sativa effects
- Expected Potency: Medium-high, balanced cerebral and body effects
- Flavor and Purity: Sweet citrus, pine, caramel notes, herbal exhale
- Best Used With: All device types – very versatile strain
- Effects: Uplifting, creative, relaxed but functional
Why I love it: Jack Herer is the perfect “anytime” strain. Discrete smell, balanced effects, and it won’t knock you on your ass.
5. White Rhino
The woody warrior. This heavy indica gives off a sweet, earthy smell that’s more like a forest walk than a cannabis grow.
After curing, White Rhino develops this pleasant woody aroma that could honestly pass for incense. The effects are seriously potent though – this isn’t a strain for lightweights.
Strain Profile:
- THC Content: 18-22%
- Best Dabbed/Vaped At: 375-400°F for full sedative effects
- Expected Potency: High, very sedating
- Flavor and Purity: Sweet earth, woody forest, subtle fruit notes
- Best Used With: Standard rigs, desktop vaporizers, concentrate pens
- Effects: Deep body relaxation, pain relief, sleepy, stress relief
Warning: White Rhino hits hard. Start low if you’re new to this strain.
6. Master Kush
The discrete powerhouse. This classic indica-dominant strain from the Netherlands is famous for big yields and minimal smell.
Master Kush has this subtle earthy aroma with hints of citrus that never really screams “cannabis” to the untrained nose. It’s been a staple for discrete growers for good reason.
Strain Profile:
- THC Content: 16-20%
- Best Dabbed/Vaped At: 365-390°F for kushy flavor
- Expected Potency: Medium-high, deeply relaxing
- Flavor and Purity: Earthy kush, subtle citrus, smooth smoke
- Best Used With: Traditional glass, dry herb vapes, concentrate devices
- Effects: Stress relief, mood improvement, body relaxation
7. Quick One (Lowryder)
The speed demon. This autoflowering strain is bred specifically for discrete, fast grows – and the low odor is just a bonus.
Quick One has a mild fruity scent that’s barely noticeable unless you’re really looking for it. Plus, it finishes flowering in just 6-7 weeks, making it perfect for quick, stealthy grows.
Strain Profile:
- THC Content: 12-15%
- Best Dabbed/Vaped At: 350-375°F (lower THC requires less heat)
- Expected Potency: Mild-medium, manageable indica effects
- Flavor and Purity: Light fruit, lime hints, very smooth
- Best Used With: Entry-level vapes, small dab pens, one-hitters
- Effects: Gentle relaxation, mild euphoria, beginner-friendly
Perfect for: New users or anyone who wants the cannabis experience without getting completely baked.
Optimal Vaping and Dabbing Temperatures
Here’s the thing about temperature – it’s everything when you’re trying to stay discrete. Too hot and you’ll create more visible vapor and stronger smells. Too cool and you won’t get the full effects.
Temperature Breakdown by Effects
| Temperature Range | Effects | Best For |
| 325-350°F | Light, flavorful, minimal vapor | Discrete daytime use |
| 350-390°F | Balanced flavor and effects | All-day functionality |
| 390-420°F | Strong effects, thicker vapor | Evening sessions |
| 420°F+ | Maximum potency, harsh vapor | Heavy users only |
My recommendation: Start at 365°F for most of these strains. You’ll get good effects without creating a vapor cloud that announces your activities.
Best Devices for Low Odor Strains
Not all vaping devices are created equal when it comes to discretion. Here’s what actually works:
Dry Herb Vaporizers
- Best overall: Portable units with precise temp control
- Why they work: Complete temperature control, minimal combustion smell
- Top picks: PAX series, Arizer portables, Mighty/Crafty
Concentrate Pens
- Best for: Ultimate discretion and portability
- Why they work: Concentrates produce less smell than flower
- Temperature range: 400-500°F for most low-odor strain concentrates
E-Rigs
- Best for: Home use with precise control
- Why they work: Electronic heating prevents overheating and excess smell
- Temperature range: 450-550°F depending on concentrate consistency
Avoid: Traditional combustion methods if discretion is your goal. Even low-odor strains smell like cannabis when you light them on fire.
Get Your Hands On a DHV That Minimizes Odor!
Click Here to Order Your OG Jams Today
[Pssst – you’re covered with our industry-leading lifetime warranty. Always.
Even if you run over your vaporizer with a car. Talk about risk-free!]
Growing Considerations
If you’re thinking about growing these strains yourself, here’s what you need to know – #1 don’t break any laws!
Seriously, growing can be a can of whoopass if you’re caught in a state where it’s not legal. I’m not gonna pretend I know much about the legalities involved here, but make sure to be on the up and up if you decide to do this.
And while I most certainly don’t recommend a grow room (of any size) in an apartment building at all, you should keep the following points in mind even if you’re growing somewhere you’re not packed in like sardines:
- Ventilation is still crucial – even low-odor strains produce some smell, especially during late flower. A basic carbon filter setup will handle what little odor these strains produce.
- Humidity control matters – keeping humidity levels around 40-50% during flowering helps minimize terpene production and therefore smell (compromise you have to make).
- Harvest timing – Don’t let these strains go too long or the terpene production will ramp up in the final weeks. Or at least, be aware of this and how it can affect the odor getting out.
The Bottom Line
Look, I’m not going to lie to you – there’s no such thing as truly “odorless” cannabis. But these seven strains come damn close to letting you enjoy your medicine without broadcasting it to the world.
Northern Lights and Blue Mystic are your best bets if you’re new to this and want something reliable. Durban Poison and Jack Herer are perfect if you need to stay functional during the day. White Rhino and Master Kush are for when you want serious effects with minimal smell. And Quick One is ideal for beginners or quick discrete sessions.
The key is finding the right combination of strain, device, and temperature that works for your situation. Start conservative and work your way up – you can always use more, but you can’t un-smoke what you’ve already consumed.
Ready to try some discrete strains? Start with Northern Lights or Blue Mystic and use a quality vaporizer around 365°F. You’ll get great effects without the neighbors wondering what that smell is.
Got questions about specific strains or setups? Drop them in the comments – I love talking about this stuff and I’m always testing new discrete options.
