Cloud Up Smoke Shop
Cannabis & Hemp

Delta-8 vs Delta-9 vs CBD: What's the Difference?

By the Cloud Up Smoke Shop Team · May 5, 2026 · 7 min read

Flat illustration of three labeled molecule icons for Delta-8, Delta-9, and CBD on a dark charcoal background with a green accent.
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21+ only. You must be 21 or older to purchase tobacco, nicotine, vaping, or hemp-derived products. Valid government ID required. This article is general information, not medical, legal, or health advice.

CBD is non-intoxicating and will not get you high; Delta-9 is the main intoxicating THC in cannabis; Delta-8 is a milder, hemp-derived THC that is mildly intoxicating. The biggest practical differences are how strong the effect is, how each is regulated, and whether each can fail a drug test.

What is the difference in effect between Delta-8, Delta-9, and CBD?

CBD produces no intoxication or “high.” Delta-9 THC is the strongest of the three and the classic cannabis high. Delta-8 THC sits in between — intoxicating, but commonly described as milder and clearer than Delta-9. So the intensity ladder runs from CBD (none) to Delta-8 (mild) to Delta-9 (strongest).

People often choose CBD for a non-intoxicating option, Delta-8 for a gentler effect, and Delta-9 for a full effect. Individual experiences vary.

Which are legal in Florida?

In Florida, CBD and Delta-8 are legal for adults 21 and older when derived from hemp with under 0.3% Delta-9 THC. Hemp-derived Delta-9 within that 0.3% limit is also sold legally. Marijuana-derived Delta-9 above that limit is restricted to Florida’s regulated medical-cannabis program.

This is why CBD and Delta-8 are openly available in Florida smoke shops to adults, while high-THC marijuana products are not. See our Florida Delta-8 legality guide for detail.

Will Delta-8, Delta-9, or CBD show up on a drug test?

Delta-8 and Delta-9 can both cause a failed drug test, because standard tests detect THC metabolites and usually cannot tell the two apart. Pure CBD is less likely to trigger a positive, but full-spectrum CBD contains trace THC that could. If you are tested, avoid all THC products.

Even “THC-free” labels are not a guarantee on every product, so anyone facing a drug test should be cautious with hemp products in general.

Frequently asked questions

Is Delta-8 stronger than CBD?

Yes in terms of intoxication — Delta-8 is mildly intoxicating while CBD is not intoxicating at all. They are used for different reasons.

Is Delta-8 weaker than Delta-9?

Delta-8 is commonly described as milder than Delta-9 THC, producing a less intense effect. Potency still depends on the product and the dose.

Can I buy CBD and Delta-8 at the same shop?

Yes. Cloud Up Smoke Shop carries CBD and lab-tested Delta-8 products at our Fort Lauderdale and Margate locations for adults 21 and older.

Visit Cloud Up Smoke Shop

Three Broward County locations, open 7 days a week, 10 AM–10 PM. Knowledgeable staff, authentic brands, and fair prices. Call ahead to check stock: +1 (954) 368-5807.

Fort Lauderdale (Sunrise West)
930 W Sunrise Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311
Fort Lauderdale (Sunrise East)
105 E Sunrise Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
Margate
308 S State Road 7, Margate, FL 33068
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