The short answer: HEAT. There are obvious physical differences of blunts and bongs. The primary variation is the temperature of the smoke being inhaled. While blunts and joints offer an easy smoke session, it is at the hottest smoke temperature. Whereas, handheld glass pipes offer similar convenience but with slightly cooler smoke. Finally, bongs offer the coolest smoking temperatures of all with less portability. In conclusion, the temperature of smoke has a significant affect on your overall smoking experience.