The graph
So, the way I see things, there's basically going to be a certain line that all products can go on. I've done my best to illustrate it below, but I'll explain it as well.
So think of it this way. When you're buying a $50 hookah or so, chances are, you're getting a hookah that'll smoke, but it won't smoke well. Hell, it may smoke well, but it may not be made well, and it may not last. The closer you get to the $100 mark, the closer you'll get to a hookah that'll function well. Think Khalil Mamoon, or Shika. They smoke well, and generally they're made well. They function well, but that's all. They don't do anything superb or exceptional aside from that. When you get closer to the $200 mark, you start getting hookahs that'll function perfectly, and usually they do something better than others. For example, in a Regal hookah, you're getting a pipe that'll smoke exceptionally well, as well as a very unique and beautiful looking pipe. In my opinion, anything beyond the $200 mark needs to start doing something exceptional to justify the price. Something that makes it stand out. Hence the line. Beyond that line, you should be getting a hookah that'll smoke fantastic, and do more than just that. With the B2, for example, you're getting a stellar modern design, a modular hookah that can change sizes, a beautiful purge, and a very wide draw. It does everything that it should do, and it does them well. But it also does more. Going on from there, you'll have pipes like the Wookah, that provides an exceptionally unique design, on top of smoking well. The Zahrah Z41, that provides a clean and smooth smoke because it's made of glass. You can go on and on from that point, but at a certain point, you're going to be paying for aesthetics, or being made from hand. This graph can be applied to anything from hoses, bowls, and even bases.
That's great, but is it worth it?
So, you've seen the graph and my explanation for it. That still doesn't the question if a certain product is worth it or not. The reality of this is that it varies from person to person. If you're someone who's just upgrading from their first $20 gas station hookah, you probably aren't worried about aesthetics, or even something that offers a flawless smoke. Chances are, you're just looking for something that'll smoke, and smoke well. In that case, you probably want to look at something like a Shika. If you have way too much money on hand, and you really want a pipe that's going to be an eye popper, then maybe you want something like a Wookah, that has a very unique design, as well as the capability to smoke well. In that case, that hookah is worth it to you. A lot of this is self-justification, but that's okay. You need to be able to say for certain why you need a specific pipe; if it's just for looks, for show, or even just to add to a collection (my guilty pleasure). Different things are going to appeal to different people for different reasons. It's why hookah is such a great thing, and such a great community. Everyone has different opinions on what's better, and that's why discussions are so great.
Overall
Overall, you need to decide for yourself whether or not something is worth it to you or not. In my opinion, I would highly recommend following the graph; it helps when you're making sure that you're purchasing something that's worth your money. Obviously it's not a definitive hookah buying guide, although you can check out my guide on choosing your hookah here. Like I said though, this graph can be applied to more than just hookahs. Whether it be bowls, hoses, or even bases, you want to make sure that what you're buying passes this test. If it's affordable, make sure it functions. If it's a bit more than affordable, make sure that it functions well. If it's super expensive, make sure that it functions well, and does something more. Anything can really apply to "doing more", but you want to make sure that it's justifiable. As always guys, thanks so much for reading, and happy smokes!
