Don't compare a vaporizer to a bong, or a pipe, or a joint. Compare vapor to smoke. You get a little more THC retention with vapor, but the big difference is what you don't get. Aside from the harshness of smoke, you don't get the toxins that come with high temps and combustion. Your vapor high will lack the couchlock you get with smoke. The effect of different strains will still apply, but you'll find that, overall, vapor produces a more energetic buzz. If you like your bong hits and the smoke doesn't bother you, you may not care for vapor. Don't buy a vape thinking you'll use a lot less herb (although most people use less with a vape), or get a lot higher. Get one if you want a healthier and/or more alert high.

If you do decide to get one, I'd recommend the Silver Surfer for a bong lover. I've used a lot of different vapes, and the SSV can deliver some big, smooth hits. It's also very forgiving in how hard you hit it. You can't hit it like a bong, but it's a pretty easy adjustment for a smoker.