One of the most fascinating parts of cannabis culture is how differently people evaluate products depending on where they are in their journey. A product that feels like a game-changer to a beginner might be considered “average” to someone with years of experience. Understanding these differences helps explain why ratings and reviews often vary so widely—and why both perspectives are valuable.

Beginners: First Impressions Matter

For newcomers, cannabis ratings often hinge on approachability and overall comfort. Beginners are especially sensitive to factors like:

• Ease of use – Pre-rolls, gummies, and vape pens often receive higher marks because they require little preparation and feel less intimidating.
• Mild potency – Low-THC products or balanced THC/CBD ratios tend to earn strong beginner reviews. According to a Leafly consumer survey, first-time shoppers frequently prefer strains under 15% THC because they’re more manageable.
• Flavor and smoothness – Harsh smoke or bitter edibles can be off-putting, so beginners usually highlight palatability. Reviews from new consumers often praise fruity gummies or smooth-hitting vape cartridges.

Many new consumers also focus on the immediacy of effects. If a product makes them feel good quickly without overwhelming side effects, it’s likely to earn five stars.

Experienced Consumers: Nuance and Depth

On the other hand, seasoned cannabis users often judge products with a more critical eye. Years of exposure give them a reference point for what “great” really feels like. Their ratings often emphasize:

• Complex terpene profiles – Instead of just liking “fruity” or “earthy,” experienced users discuss specific terpenes like limonene or myrcene. They often reward cultivars with layered aromas and flavors.
• Potency and consistency – Veteran users tend to have higher tolerances, so products need to deliver stronger or more refined effects to impress. A study published in the Journal of Cannabis Research noted that frequent users typically consume higher THC levels and are more attuned to subtle differences between strains.
• Cultivation quality – Trimming, curing, and freshness weigh heavily in reviews. Connoisseurs will quickly call out dry flower, harsh smoke, or poorly purged concentrates.

For many experienced reviewers, it’s not just about how the product feels in the moment—it’s also about whether it matches up to elite benchmarks they’ve encountered before.

Why the Gap Exists

The difference boils down to expectations and tolerance. Beginners want reassurance and comfort, while experienced users seek novelty and refinement. That’s why you might see a product with wildly mixed reviews: a balanced gummy may be “perfectly mellow” to a newcomer but “barely noticeable” to a daily user.

Another factor is experience with variety. Beginners are often thrilled with their first few positive encounters, while seasoned users have tried dozens—sometimes hundreds—of strains and products. Their higher standards shape how they score.

What This Means for Shoppers

When reading cannabis ratings, it helps to keep perspective. A one-star review from an experienced consumer might not mean the product is “bad”—it may simply be too mild for them. Likewise, a glowing beginner review could reflect ease of use more than elite quality.

The best approach is to read reviews from both camps. Beginners highlight accessibility, while veterans reveal product depth. Together, they provide a fuller picture, helping you choose products that fit your goals and tolerance.