Quick lighting and Natural coal - both types of hookah charcoal are mostly made from bamboo or coconut fiber.
Many smokers swear on quick lighting hookah charcoal because it is easy to ignite and uncomplicated to handle, while others prefer natural charcoal that takes longer to properly ignite, but glows longer and with greater heat and also has a greater flavor neutrality.
The basic differences between quick lighting coal and natural coal are:
Natural carbon is tasteless. Quick lighting coals often have a light aftertaste
Quick lighting coal can be ignited with a lighter in about 20 seconds. Natural carbon needs about 8-10 minutes with a gas burner or coal lighter
Quick lighting coal does not burn as hot as natural coal
Quick lighting coal burns between 45-60 minutes - natural coals last about 90 minutes
