There seem to be new cannabis strains popping up daily as cultivars experiment with different genetics – but two of the most popular to come out of the past 10-20 years have to be the Runtz vs Gelato strain.

These two powerhouses actually share family ties, but their personalities couldn’t be more different. So which is better, Gelato or Runtz? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but we’re here to help you narrow it down based on your preferences.

Runtz leans candy-sweet with a euphoric, buzzy lift that’s hard to miss. Gelato, on the other hand, brings creamy richness and a smoother, more grounded body high. The truth is, you can’t go wrong either way.

We’ll dive deeper into the nuances between the Runtz vs Gelato strain below. But, why not try both side by side and see which you prefer? We make it easy here at Flowerz, with lab-tested, Farm Bill compliant Gelato vape cartridges AND Runtz vape cartridges. Shop now!

Overview of the Runtz Strain

Runtz is a relatively new hybrid strain born from the West Coast. It blends two cult-classic cannabis strains: Zkittlez and Gelato. The end result is a balanced hybrid that leans slightly more sativa than indica.

The strain is known for delivering a sweet, fruity experience – as the name suggests. It’s quickly become one of the most sought-after genetics in the world, thanks in part to pop culture. Let’s take a closer look at its terpene profile, effects, and more.

Terpene and Flavor Profile

The Zkittles side of Runtz genetics really shines through in its terpene profile. You get strong caryophyllene, limonene, and linalool content, which is where the sweet and slightly citrusy taste with hints of berry and candy come from. These terpenes also shape the effects of Runtz.

Effects and Potency

As a fairly balanced hybrid strain you can expect to feel Runtz both physically and mentally. It’s a nice uplifting high that also feels really relaxing, melting away stress and tension.

You’ll quickly feel the euphoric, creative burst coming through thanks to the sativa side of the strain’s genetics. But this eventually gives way to a mellow, calming influence from the indica heritage.

Its THC content typically ranges from 18-29%, making it potent enough for both casual users and seasoned cannabis connoisseurs. Whether you need a boost to get through a midday lull or some relaxation after a long day, Runtz hits the spot.

Growing and Harvest Info

The plant itself is not necessarily easy to cultivate, which is part of what makes it so sought after. You can’t just get Runtz anywhere because not every dispensary can find it!

Runtz also tends to thrive more indoors, where its dense buds and vibrant purple buds can really be brought to fruition. The flowering time is usually somewhere between 8-9 weeks, and yields are fairly heavy – so it’s worth the work that goes into producing it!

Overview of the Gelato Strain

Gelato is a hybrid strain itself, originating from a cross of Sunset Sherbet and Thin Mint Girl Scout Cookies. It too comes from the West Coast, more specifically, the Bay Area in California. It was also made famous by rapper Berner, owner of the Cookies brand.

The strain has a unique dessert-like aroma and flavor profile with potent effects that hit you hard. Let’s unpack its terpene profile and expected effects below.

Terpene and Flavor Profile

Gelato’s flavor profile is a mouthwatering combination of sweet, citrusy, and earthy notes, with undertones of vanilla and berry. The dominant terpenes are caryophyllene, limonene, and myrcene – many of which are found in Runtz, too!

The taste mirrors the aroma. Gelato is smooth, creamy, and among Mother Nature’s most flavorful strains. It’s easy to see why this variety is so sought after too.

Effects and Potency

Those terpenes and the overall cannabinoid profile lend to a balanced uplifting and calming effects. It typically has THC levels ranging between 20-25%, so it’s plenty strong but not quite as potent as Runtz in most cases.

The strain is perfect for those looking for a burst of creativity and focus, but it quickly gives way to a relaxed body high that won’t leave you couch-locked. It’s a go-to for people trying to manage stress, depression, anxiety – or just to get high any time of day!

Growing and Harvest Info

Gelato is moderately easy to grow but requires a bit more care than some other strains. It can thrive outdoors in a sunny, Mediterranean climate but can be grown indoors as well. Its flowering time is around 8 to 9 weeks, and it produces medium to high yields.

Runtz vs Gelato Strain: Key Differences to Consider

It’s easy to see why the Runtz vs Gelato strain are commonly compared to one another. After all, Runtz is derived from Gelato – so they have quite a bit of overlap in terms of effects, flavor, aroma, and appearance!

But which is better, Gelato or Runtz? Only you can answer that question based on your own personal preferences. We’ll help you narrow it down with a closer, side-by-side look at Gelato vs Runtz below.

Flavor and Aroma

Be clear, each of these strains has an amazing flavor and aroma – the sensory experience is a huge selling point for both Runtz and Gelato. They have quite a bit of overlap here since they share many terpenes.

Runtz delivers a sweet, fruity, and candy-like flavor with strong citrus and berry undertones. It leaves a tropical aftertaste that will trick you into thinking you just left the candy shop.

The dominant terpenes of caryophyllene, limonene, and linalool lend to a scent profile that offers the best of Zkittlez and Gelato. It’s sweet with subtle hints of spice. It’s actually one of the most aromatic strains in the world, so if you ever get the chance, you have to take a whiff.

On the other hand, Gelato leans a bit more creamy, dessert-like rather than candy-like. It’s decadent with a rich mix of sweet citrus, vanilla, and earthy notes.

Gelato’s terpenes of caryophyllene, myrcene, and limonene create a more refined and nuanced aroma, one that’s sweet but not overwhelming. It has a more sophisticated taste as well with a complex balance of fruity and earthy notes.

Nuances in Effects and Potency

Maybe what matters most to you in comparing Runtz vs Gelato is how it’ll make you feel. Well, you’re in for a real treat either way. Both are packed with THC and other secondary cannabinoids, and they tend to fall somewhere between the two extremes of sativa/indica.

That said, Runtz is a bit stronger with potency as high as 29% depending on growing conditions and genetics. The strain is known for hitting hard with an initial euphoric wave before tapering off with gentle, uplifting mental clarity. It’s great for focus and motivation, or anytime you want to chill out without getting couch locked and turning into a vegetable.

In contrast, gelato is a more balanced hybrid with less sativa effect. It provides a milder sense of euphoria that’s followed by a stronger calming, relaxing body buzz – but it won’t leave you glued to your seat, either.

Gelato can still spark creativity and focus, but is generally considered more relaxing than Runtz. Its THC content is more moderate as well, usually topping out at 25% max.

In this sense, choosing between Gelato vs Runtz is fairly simple – want more of a body high or head high? Go with Gelato for less mental simulation, Runtz when you want to get your mind buzzed.

Medical and Wellness Uses

Both strains have potential therapeutic benefits, and again – there are some similarities here since they share many of the same terpenes, which can shape the experience you have with cannabis.

For instance, Runtz is relied on for managing stress, anxiety, and other mood disorders with its combination of euphoric and uplifting effects. Its sativa influence can also help you stay upbeat during the day. We love it for social settings or a lack of motivation.

Meanwhile, Gelato has its place for many of the same ailments – stress, anxiety, etc., but maybe not so much for focus and creativity since it doesn’t have quite as much sativa influence.

Instead, Gelato works great for chronic pain, insomnia, or muscle tension because of its relaxing body effects. It can help melt away physical tension and discomfort. Some users even use it for sleep support since it helps them wind down physically and mentally.

Cost and Availability

Either strain is going to be hard to get your hands on since they’re considered “exotic” varieties, and you’ll likely pay a premium for both Runtz and Gelato for this reason.

But the most important thing to keep in mind is you get what you pay for. Don’t buy Runtz or Gelato off the street or from your buddy’s buddy because there’s a good chance you’re 1) not getting real Runtz or Gelato genetics and 2) who knows if the flower or vape was lab tested.

Like we said from the start, you can find both Runtz and Gelato right here at Flowerz in our vape collection. These products are sourced from elite cultivars and we lab test everything we sell for both potency and purity. You can buy Runtz or Gelato with peace of mind.

So, Which is Better: Gelato or Runtz?

We hope this Gelato vs Runtz strain comparison has left you with a better understanding of the benefits each brings to your self-care ritual. So which is better, Gelato or Runtz? It all depends on what you’re looking for.

Runtz is your strain if you want a fruitier, tropical experience with a more uplifting high. It’s better for daytime use. On the other hand, Gelato is a bit more balanced and may be better suited for post-work sessions since it leans more indica than Runtz does. Its flavor is more refined, almost dessert-like.

Our advice? Try both and see which you prefer! After all, both are just a click away at Flowerz.

Try Both at Flowerz and Find Out For Sure Which You Prefer!

Flowerz is your one-stop shop for all things legal, hemp-derived cannabis products – including Runtz and Gelato. Our vape carts are carefully crafted after strict sourcing so you can rest assured you’re getting the quality experience you crave.

We also have plenty of other varieties, ranging from a Blue Dream vape pen to our Mango Kush vape. Aside from vapes you can also buy THCa flower online, THC edibles, THCa pre-rolls, and more. Browse our catalog and see what catches your eye today!

Closing Thoughts on Gelato vs Runtz Strain

As we draw our Runtz vs Gelato comparison to a close we hope you feel more confident in which is right for your tastes. Each offers something really special for cannabis enthusiasts who want to try the best of the best.

Whether you’re looking for an energetic, euphoric high or a relaxed, soothing experience, you can’t go wrong with either option. Why settle for just one? With Flowerz’s range of vape carts, you can try both strains and find out for yourself which fits your mood and lifestyle best.

Learn more about the pre-roll vs cartridge, delta 8 flower vs THCa flower, alternatives to delta 8, or the best delta 9 alternative in our blog. Otherwise, the only thing left to do today is order your Runtz and Gelato vapes at Flowerz and find your new favorite strain!