For years, THC percentage has been the go-to metric for cannabis shoppers, especially those ordering online for delivery. But for veteran consumers, the obsession with “how high” the number is doesn’t always reflect the quality or experience of the strain. While THC—tetrahydrocannabinol—is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, it’s far from the only factor worth considering when selecting a product.

Many online menus prominently feature THC percentages, often guiding consumers toward strains with numbers above 25%. But does higher THC mean a better high? Not necessarily. According to cannabis researchers and product specialists, the relationship between THC potency and user experience is far more nuanced.

In fact, a 2020 study from the University of Colorado Boulder found that while higher THC levels increased blood THC concentrations, they didn’t necessarily lead to stronger subjective effects. In other words, participants didn’t report feeling significantly more intoxicated when using high-THC products than when consuming lower-THC ones.

Veteran consumers know that cannabis works best when multiple components interact—commonly referred to as the “entourage effect.” This includes cannabinoids like CBD, CBG, and CBN, as well as aromatic compounds called terpenes. These elements collectively influence the effects of a strain, including whether it’s more likely to promote relaxation, focus, creativity, or anxiety relief.

Terpenes like myrcene, limonene, and linalool can have sedating, energizing, or mood-lifting effects that interact with THC in unique ways. For example, a strain with 18% THC and a rich terpene profile may offer a more enjoyable and well-rounded experience than one with 30% THC but little aromatic complexity.

This makes terpene profiles especially valuable for consumers ordering cannabis for delivery, where smell-testing or in-store staff guidance isn’t available. Many delivery platforms now include lab reports or detailed strain descriptions that list dominant terpenes, allowing customers to make more informed decisions from the comfort of home.

Another often-overlooked factor is the strain type and its origin—whether it’s a hybrid, indica-dominant, or sativa-leaning variety. These labels are not scientifically rigid, but they do provide clues about how a strain might feel. Genetics play a huge role in determining how a particular strain affects an individual, and THC content is only one part of that equation.

Veteran cannabis consumers also consider tolerance. Long-term users may need higher THC levels to feel the same effect, but they often focus on strains that offer consistent effects, not just potency. Others use cannabis medicinally and prioritize balanced THC:CBD ratios for more functional results during the day.

So, while THC percentage matters—especially for newcomers or those seeking a strong psychoactive effect—it shouldn’t be the sole deciding factor when choosing a cannabis strain for delivery. Looking at the complete cannabinoid and terpene profile, understanding your own tolerance, and knowing your desired outcome all play vital roles in finding the right product.

For a satisfying and reliable cannabis experience, THC is part of the puzzle—but it’s not the whole picture.