Best Hookah to Buy – Reviews and Buyer’s Guide

If you want to make tobacco sessions not only with pipes and cigars, we strongly recommend hookah.

Hookah is a traditional method of smoking tobacco. It was widespread in ancient times in the Middle East and nearby countries such as Egypt and the Mediterranean region.

Hookah is still popular today! We love it and choose only the best hookah which can make long smoke sessions with right tobacco and bowl.

Here is the result of our efforts.

Enjoy!

Best Hookah to Buy in 2018

Model	Material	Height	Features
Lit Premium Original (Editor’s Choice)	Glass Stainless steel shaft	15" (38 cm)	Hand-Made	Check Price
Khalil Mamoon	Glass + Metal Stainless steel shaft	22" (56 cm)	Hand-Made	Check Price
Pharaoh's Halo	Glass + Plastic Stainless steel shaft	21" (53 cm)	Hand-Made. Up to 4 hose adaptable	Check Price
Sand Blasted Skin	Glass Stainless steel shaft	17" (43 cm)	Up to 2 hose adaptable	Check Price
Habibi Single Hose	Glass	24" (61 cm)	Smokes smoothly and produces big clouds	Check Price

1. Lit Premium Original Glass Hookah – Best Glass Hookah

The Lit Premium Original Glass Hookah is a critically acclaimed item in the industry for several years now. Among its many selling points are its exquisite novelty design and functionality.

Would you believe that they have a team of thinktanks composed of engineers and designers that work to create this? The result is a fine and exquisitely-designed glass hookah.

In addition, this team of professionals makes sure the hookahs are safe for use. The materials used are the best in the industry. Manufacturing processes and designs are up to par with industry standards.

The Feature You Would Appreciate

This hookah is hand-made, applying top-notch artistry. Only the best artisans can add the exquisite details to this hookah.

High-quality glass was used in this Lit Premium glass hookah. This is the strongest among the types of glass currently used in the industry today.

Easy to Use

The glass parts of the Lit Premium Hookah include the head and body, the down stem, detachable purge valve, and male to male adapter. There are a few non-glass parts, for better functionality and practicality of use. The non-glass parts are the hose, the box carrying case and the tongs.

The food grade black silicone hose comes with an aluminum handle. This material used for the hose is among the top rated in the hookah industry.

This hookah has a wide base which ensures that you have a sturdy and stable set-up. You don’t have worry about the hookah toppling over.

The removable check valve allows for easy conversion into a 2-hose hookah. The metal tray that comes with the hookah eliminates the need to use foil. These features take the hookah experience a step further towards greater enjoyment with less hassle.

The pull is smooth and no resistance is felt. You won’t feel the usual heaviness in the chest after smoking for extended periods. There are also no coughing fits following a hit.

The glass parts are easy to clean. But, make sure you still exercise caution when handling this glass hookah. In the event that some glass parts broke, immediately contact the company’s customer service. They will send a replacement promptly.

The fast, responsive customer service is one of the many reasons why users are satisfied. Replacements for broken pieces are sent quickly. Some replacement parts are even given for free, isn’t that great?

Assembly is a breeze. In case you encounter problems with setting up, the company will readily help to guide you.

Recommendations:

2. Khalil Mamoon Hookah Shisha – The Best Overall Hookah

Khalil Mamoon is a popular brand. ThisEgyptian Amoun is a mini nargileh shisha. It has a beautiful Khalil Mamoon vase. The set comes with an authentic bowl, ashtray, and a big hose.

The set also comes with a pair of tongs that are extra strong and durable. It is made of copper with heavy rod shafts.

The bottom is made of a glass base that keeps the hookah sturdy. The size is large enough to hold tobacco for long hours of smoking, so you can enjoy the experience more.

You enjoy this hookah because…

Long Hose for Long Sessions!

The hose is long enough for ease of use without worrying about knocking the hookah over when passing it around. The length is also just enough to allow some movement without coiling or getting in the way as you smoke.

All the parts are hand-crafted, and hand painted to produce its exquisite design. Old world artistry is used in creating this outstanding hookah.

Khalil Mamoon hookahs can be configured by changing the hose and the vase. There are many designs available from Khalil Mamoon range of products.

Recommendation:

3. Pharaoh’s Halo Hookah Set – The Most Stylish Hookah

The size and height of this hookah set are perfect for a small side table, like the one you have. It is also easy to carry; hence, you can bring it with you when you travel. How convenient is that?

The glass base is hand blown to perfection, made more beautiful with the application of the Black Sand technique. The color of the glass base does not peel or lose color with time.

The water level is still visible through the Black Sand glass. This allows for maintaining an accurate amount of water for the continuous great smoking experience.

The stem is made from high-grade stainless steel material. It comes with a striking black matte finish. The dimension of the stem is customized to produce thick clouds. It is screwed onto the base, so it snugly fits.

The set also comes with a hose, clay bowl, hose, and ashtray. The hose is washable and wrapped in premium leather.

The Feature You Would Appreciate

This set up can accommodate up to 4 hoses. Conversion requires using Pharaoh’s 2.0 adapters. You’ll need to buy the adapters separately.

You can convert this into a 4-hose hookah by removing the screws from the sealing valves and the purge valve. Then, plug the Pharaoh’s hose adapter.

This hookah set is available in several colors, including purple, white, pink, and green apple.

Recommendation:

4. Sand Blasted Skin Hookah – The Best Hookah for Sharing

The base of this hookah can hold up to 4 cups of water. It is made of hand blown glass, then sand blasted to create a beautiful alligator skin pattern around the vase. The sand blasted parts may look whitish or greyish. The vase colors available are black and amber.

The shaft is made of stainless steel with extra wide tubing. The washable hose is wrapped with the velvet rope.

Style with Great Smoke Experience!

This hookah also comes with a wide, deep water bowl for the full smoke. The bowl comes in a vortex design.

The set also comes with an ashtray and Khanjar stainless steel tongs. These stylish tongs make handling charcoal an art and part of the entire hookah experience.

This setup can be converted into a 2-hose hookah. Sahara Smoke hose adapters are required to convert the hookah, though.

Recommendation:

5. Habibi Single Hose Hookah Pipe Set –The Best Personal Hookah Set

This is a single hose hookah set from Habibi Company. The base of the hookah is made of glass painted with silver stripes. The stem is done in an all-blackstyle.

The set comes with a hose, ashtray, and bowl. The bowl is made of ceramic for strength, functionality, and durability. The hose is wrapped in leather for added durability as well as antiquated appeal. A pair of classic tongs for handling charcoal is also part of the set.

Recommendation:

Users should check that all connections are properly secured, though, especially the ones that need to be sealed securely. Loose connection or installation are often the results of loose seal.

You cannot be modified this hookah, this is intended as a single hose hookah only.

Best Hookah – Buyer’s Guide

Traditional hookahs are made in Egypt, as well as Turkey, Syria, Mediterranean region, and the Middle East. Modern ones are typically made in assembly lines in China.

Traditional hookahs are heavier, made by hand and usually made with copper, brass, and stainless steel. Modern hookahs are lighter, made using modern manufacturing techniques and with stainless steel.

Additional elements are added to modern hookahs to achieve certain finishes.

Smoke with the class using a hookah. There are a lot of designs to choose from – including classic, exquisite Egyptian, modern classic, and novelty. There are a variety of choices for pipe pairings, bases, stems, etc.

Before getting overwhelmed by the wide range of choices, understand the basic features of a hookah first.It is imperative for beginners and first-time users need to understand these things to make their first hookah experience worthwhile.

Hose

Remember, a good quality hose is crucial to a good pull. The hose should not have any nasty fumes or odors that will get mixed with the smoke. Imagine how the smoke will taste like if you use the low-quality rubber.

The smoke will taste rubbery or have a chemical after-taste. Another consideration is the length.

If you intend to share it with a group of friends, choose one that is ideal for group use. It should be long enough to pass around, but not too long that it causes imbalance. It should not be too short that a slight pull will topple the hookah over.

Size

Hookahs come in a variety of shapes and sizes. If you have limited space, you may choose the “mini” type, which can be placed on a small side table. The larger ones can properly “stand” on the floor, which is ideal for group sessions.

Consider how you are going to use it. Is it for personal use? Or would you be using it with a group of your friends?

Another consideration is where it will be used. For beginners, the good choice is the smaller ones (starter sets). If you will be using it at home, regularly, consider getting a larger one.  If the hookah is meant to be brought along while traveling, a smaller and lighter one is the most recommended choice.

Material

A hookah is set is made of different materials. The base can be made of ceramic, metal (such as brass or stainless steel) or glass. The stem can be made of stainless steel, copper, or brass.

The hose, pipe and bowl are also available in different materials. Brass ad copper materials are pricier than stainless steel. Durability is assured when you get one made from copper. Brass makes for greater decorative value and many other things. It also depends on personal preferences, price, and intended use.

Design and color

A hookah can reflect the owner’s personal style. Choose one that most suits your personality. There are many colors to choose from, as well as patterns and overall design or shape. Some have a simple rounded base, straight stem, and a functional bowl (you can change and buy best bowl right there). Another has more elaborate and elaborate designs. Some hookahs are done in old-world artistry, just like the exquisite designs of antique hookahs in Egypt.

A hookah should be geared towards a greater appreciation of the art of smoking. Beginners are often overwhelmed by the many choices. Some are afraid of making the wrong choice. Don’t be.

Consider more than the price. Not all cheap ones are inferior, not all expensive ones are worth the price.

Things to consider before buying a hookah

Price is not the only consideration when buying a hookah. Look beyond the price tag and discover the many factors that make a r hookah a good buy.

Look beyond the design

A lot of people are attracted to the design that they do not look closer before buying the hookah. Even the noblest, most attractive hookah can prove to be of inferior quality. Check all the parts and consider the materials used for each. Check the seal if it fits snugly and not wobbly.

What Should You Check?

The material

As mentioned, the material is critical. Most often, smaller parts are overlooked. People only look at the material used for the larger pieces like the base and the pipe. Check the materials on other parts, too.

For instance, check the material of the smoke column. It should be made from good quality material and can withstand usual wear and tear.

The water pipe quality should be up to industry standards. This seemingly small part can have a huge impact on smoking. Leaks and premature cooling are simply not acceptable. This robs you of having a great smoking experience.

Seams

The decorative value of a hookah is often the only thing considered by most buyers. They forget to look closer and look at the finer details. Check the weld seams. Check the entire set for any sharp edges, you don’t want to get hurt while using your hookah.

Glass thickness

The glass is often used for the base. The glass should be thick enough to withstand transport. The base also keeps the entire hookah set stable when placed on the floor or table. It should be thick and wide enough. The glass for the base should be thicker than a regular drinking glass.

FAST FAQs

Is there a difference between a brass and a stainless steel stem?

Both are good quality materials for the stem, but they are not the same in terms of price and aesthetics. Some hookah designs look more impressive the one with the brass stem. Brass, however, is usually more expensive than stainless steel.

Stainless steel stem is shinier than brass. It is also lighter. Hookah meant solely for home use often has stainless steel stem. Those that are used for commercial consumption have stems made of brass.

Some enthusiasts also claim that smoke quality is better with a brass stem. Some claim that there is no big difference. It all boils down to personal preference and budget.

What size is the best choice?

Consider how many people will be using the hookah. For individual use, choose smaller ones. If meant for groups, choose a larger one. In other situation, a medium-sized one is a wise choice.

Space is also a consideration. For home use, small to medium-sized hookahs are recommended. For first time hookah users, a smaller one is recommended. But if you travel often, get a smaller one.

Does size affect smoke quality?

Not much. Size selection is mostly a personal preference. The flavor is mainly on the right preparation of the tobacco and proper assembly of the hookah.

What is the best height for a hookah?

The “pull” and taste of the smoke are not affected by the height of the hookah at all. The most important thing to consider is creating and maintaining an airtight seal. It does not really matter if it’s 12 inches tall or a hundred inches high.

What is the difference between an acrylic and a glass base?

There is no huge difference between these two types in terms of the effect on flavor. Acrylic base is less prone to breakage than a glass base. It is made of tough plastic material. This is for people who are not very confident in using a glass base.

If choosing the acrylic base, never allow water to get stuck inside the base overnight or for extended periods. This can affect the flavor of the smoke because of stale water.

Empty the base and dry properly after each hookah session. This will help in keeping the hookah fresh tasting every time.

Which is a better choice: light or heavy hookah?

The weight is not a primary consideration when choosing a hookah. Focus on the material used instead.

NOTE: Check the Downstem and the Ports

Most people only consider the material for the stem, either in stainless steel, aluminum, nickel-plated, brass or copper. These materials are not critical because the stem doesn’t get wet.

The parts that are prone to rusting are the ports and the downstem. Ensure that the materials used for these parts are not made of materials prone to rust. This includes galvanized steel and aluminum. All other materials that contain iron are at high risk for rust. Stainless steel is somewhat resistant but can still rust over time.

Of these two, the better choice is brass. Copper is widely used in household plumbing and is generally more expensive. It also gets oxidized when exposed to water. This results in unsightly greenish spots. These oxidized spots need to be cleaned off. Copper is also a soft metal, resulting in dents after long periods of use. It gets softer if subjected to heat, like when vapor passes through. These dents, dings, and bends can be easier repaired. However, repeated unbending or removal of dents can weaken the metal after constant use.

Brass, on the other hand, is more durable and stronger than copper. Brass is a combination of zinc and copper.

Conclusion

Hookah is used as an ancient art of smoking. It has been around for thousands of years. Anyone can enjoy a hookah session in modern hookah lounges or in the comforts of his home. Buying a hookah requires some knowledge in order to make a great purchase. Poor materials can affect the taste and the pull of the hookah.

Remember, a good smoking session starts with having a good quality hookah.