Garant vs XQS: which nicotine pouch should you buy?

Choosing between Garant and XQS usually comes down to strength band, pouch format and what is actually in stock. All three are things we can answer directly, because both brands are ours to ship.

Side by side

Strength

For those seeking a mild and consistent nicotine experience, both Garant and XQS offer 4 mg options in slim portions. However, Garant provides more value with 27 pouches per can compared to XQS's 20, both priced at CA$14.00. This makes Garant a more economical choice per pouch, which may be appealing for those who prefer stocking up.

If flavor variety is a priority, your choice may depend on your taste preferences. Garant offers unique flavors such as Eucalyptus and Peach, while XQS presents options like Mixed Fruits and Wintergreen. For instance, the Garant Eucalyptus Light offers a balanced eucalyptus flavor, rated with a moderate sting of 6 out of 10, perfect for those who enjoy a refreshing taste.

In terms of strength variance, Garant also has a broader range with options going up to 25 mg per pouch, whereas XQS caps at 11.2 mg. This diversity in strengths allows users seeking higher intensity to explore Garant's more robust offerings.

• Light — 1.5–4 mg per pouch (177 cans listed, in stock or not). Where to start. Enough to feel, mild enough to sit with for an hour.
• Normal — 4.2–6 mg per pouch (76 cans listed, in stock or not). The everyday strength — enough to feel without taking over the afternoon.
• Strong — 6.3–12 mg per pouch (259 cans listed, in stock or not). A firm kick and a real tingle. Not a first pouch.
• Extra Strong — 12.5–20 mg per pouch (96 cans listed, in stock or not). Heavy hitters for a tolerance that is already built.
• Super Strong — 22.2–30 mg per pouch (70 cans listed, in stock or not). Serious doses, for a tolerance that is already well established.
• Extreme — 32.5–50 mg per pouch (70 cans listed, in stock or not). The highest doses we list. Far above any Canadian-authorized product.

Flavour and format

When choosing between Garant and XQS for flavour, consider the distinct offerings that set each brand apart. Garant's range includes options like Eucalyptus Light, delivering a eucalyptus taste with a moderate sting rating of 6 out of 10. For those who favor fruity notes, Garant's Ice Peach Light and Ice Blueberry Light offer both peach and berry flavours, each with 27 pouches per can at CA$14.00. These may appeal to users looking for a more traditional or slightly sweet experience, with the added benefit of receiving more pouches per can.

On the other hand, XQS provides an adventurous selection of flavours such as Black Cherry Light Slim and Tropical Light, each available in 20 pouches per can. The Tropical Light, with a high fruit rating of 8 out of 10, is perfect for those who seek a bold mixed fruits experience. Though XQS offers fewer pouches per can, its unique combinations, like the Blueberry Mint Light Slim, rated at a strong 7 out of 10 for fruit, might attract those willing to prioritize flavour variety over quantity.

The XQS range in full

• XQS Black Cherry Light Slim (4 mg) — Reach for XQS Black Cherry Light Slim when you want a smooth, easy-going hit of cherry without smoke or tobacco.
• XQS Blueberry Mint Light Slim (4 mg) — With XQS Blueberry Mint Light Slim, you get clean berry flavour and a smooth, easy-going release that lasts.
• XQS Citrus Cooling Light (4 mg) — Reach for XQS Citrus Cooling Light when you want a smooth, easy-going hit of citrus without smoke or tobacco.
• XQS Tropical Light (4 mg) — Reach for XQS Tropical Light when you want a smooth, easy-going hit of mixed fruits without smoke or tobacco.
• XQS Wintergreen Light (4 mg) — Reach for XQS Wintergreen Light when you want a smooth, easy-going hit of mint without smoke or tobacco.

XQS provides a diverse array of flavors, making it an appealing choice for those seeking unique taste experiences. For instance, the XQS Black Cherry Light Slim offers a robust fruit profile with a rating of 7 out of 10, catering to cherry enthusiasts. Similarly, the XQS Tropical Light stands out with a high fruit rating of 8 out of 10, ideal for those who enjoy a vibrant mixed fruits flavor. Despite having only 20 pouches per can, each priced at CA$14.00, XQS's creative flavor options may justify the lesser quantity for adventurous users.

If you value a minty refreshment, XQS Wintergreen Light presents a solid mint sensation, rated at 6 out of 10 for mint, providing a satisfying mint experience. Conversely, Garant's Ice Cool Light, also rated 6 out of 10 for mint, offers 27 pouches per can at the same price, making it a more economical choice if you're focused on cost-effectiveness. Ultimately, your decision might hinge on whether you prioritize flavor exploration or pouch quantity.

Price and availability in Canada

When deciding between Garant and XQS for price and availability, consider your usage frequency and flavour preferences. Garant offers more pouches per can, with 27 pouches compared to XQS's 20, both priced at CA$14.00. This makes Garant a cost-effective choice if you're looking to maximize the number of pouches you get for your money, especially if you use pouches frequently.

Flavour diversity can also influence your choice between the brands. Garant stands out with exclusive flavours like Eucalyptus and Peach, ideal for users seeking distinctive tastes not found in XQS's lineup. For example, Garant's Eucalyptus Light provides a refreshing eucalyptus taste with a moderate sting rating, catering to those who enjoy herbal flavors. Meanwhile, XQS offers unique blends such as Mixed Fruits and Wintergreen, appealing to those who prefer a broader spectrum of fruit-centric profiles.

Availability-wise, our British Columbia warehouse stocks a robust selection of both brands, with 31 Garant cans and 35 XQS cans, ensuring that there's a steady supply of your preferred option. For those placing larger orders, our free shipping policy for purchases over CA$150 right across Canada adds convenience, making it easier to access your preferred products without additional costs.

Common questions

If you're venturing into nicotine pouches for the first time or prefer lighter options, both Garant and XQS offer 4 mg slim portions. However, Garant may be more appealing due to its larger can size, offering 27 pouches compared to XQS's 20 at the same price. This can be a deciding factor if you're looking for more value per purchase.

For those with specific flavor preferences, Garant's lineup includes unique options like Eucalyptus and Peach, both of which come in the 4 mg strength with 27 pouches per can. These flavors are ideal for users who appreciate herbal or fruity notes. Garant Eucalyptus Light, for instance, provides a balanced eucalyptus taste with a moderate sting rating of 6 out of 10, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a refreshing experience.

On the other hand, XQS offers distinctive flavors such as Mixed Fruits and Wintergreen, with a high fruit rating of 8 out of 10 for the Tropical Light. Though XQS provides fewer pouches per can, these bold taste profiles might appeal to those looking for diversity and flavor exploration. If you prioritize trying different flavors over quantity, XQS's selection may be worth the trade-off.

Keep going: Garant, XQS, our full nicotine pouch range, every brand we carry.