Difference Between The Qt And The Econo Qt?

[evilded777]

Looking for a nice small hookah, for the partner when he wants a smoke (rare) and for traveling (not as rare).

What are the differences between the QT and Econo QT? I can't really see to tell, other than roughly $10 price differential.

[Woodsytheowl]

I believe the econo model's stems are made of aluminum or something to that extent? Cheaper metal.

[a cliche affair]

I think what Jon said is correct.

As for the QT in general, it smokes like a champ and cleans up SO easily.

[Zinite]

Yeah I think it's aluminum compared to brass. It's not going to weigh nearly as much, but it should smoke the same.

[AKammenzind]

I can speak from actual experience.

The econo QT is made of aluminum, yes, and as such is around 1/3 or so (at a guess) the weight of the standard QT. This isn't really a big thing, although it isn't quite as insanely stable because of it.

There are also a series of rather minor differences:
1. The top of the stem (where you attach the bowl) doesn't screw off like in the standard QT
2. The heart is shaped differently, not that it really matters any.
3. The hose port/purge valve are at a slightly more upright angle.
4. The downstem has a significantly smaller ID (yet somehow it smokes every bit as well as a normal QT/Bambino)

The only thing function-wise that is different from normal QT's is that the econo actually purges slightly better due to the shape of the base, and the fact that the hose ports point down a bit more, making the effective smoke chamber larger.

Edit: Also, the econo QT uses a bit less water than the standard model. Edited April 19, 2009 by AKammenzind

[erufiku]

Wow thanks for the comparison AK, I might now get an econo qt for traveling since it's lighter and uses less water

edit: I can't believe it's just 35$, definitely picking one up before the end of April! Edited April 19, 2009 by erufiku

[evilded777]

Thanks everyone who replied. Really appreciate the insights.