
Choosing the best cigar lighter can play a major part in your overall smoking experience. In some cases, there really is no right or wrong lighter, and it’s often a matter of personal preference. However, you do need a lighter that’s able to efficiently and evenly light a cigar in order to get the most flavor. Fortunately, there are many options to choose from.
Obviously, a cigar lighter is a necessary tool and one that you’ll rely on each time a craving hits you, and you want to fire up your favorite premium cigar. But there are so many different types, shapes, sizes, and options to choose from these days, that finding one that’s reliable, durable, and will light your cigar the way it should, can seem almost impossible.
Because of this, I’ve created a buyer’s guide that will go over what to look for in a model that’s designed to last, including different flame designs, different styles of lighters, and how they work. I’ve even included a section on how to use your new lighter and regular care and maintenance needs.
Cigar Lighters Comparison Chart
Product | Flame design | Power | Rating |
---|---|---|---|
Lotus Duke V Serrated Lighter![]() | Triple flame | Butane | |
Vertigo Cyclone Lighter![]() | Triple flame | Butane | |
Tomolo Torch Lighter![]() | Triple Flame | Butane | |
XiKAR EX Windproof Lighter![]() | Hybrid single jet flame | Butane | |
LcFun Dual Arc Plasma Lighter![]() | No Flame | USB Rechargeable | |
Colibri Rally Cigar Lighter![]() | Double flame | Butane |
1. Best Overall: LOTUS DUKE V SERRATED CIGAR LIGHTER
Our Rating:
This is one of the best models from Lotus, a major player in the lighter industry. The lighter features an innovative design which improves durability. It also offers excellent fire power, so you can smoke up indoors and outdoors, easily and efficiently.
Serrated Flame Design
The triple flame serrated design is perfect for thicker cigars and can evenly and quickly light up your favorite stogie in a matter of seconds. As you probably already know, a triple jet flame is also highly wind-resistant, and has the ability to light a cigar faster and more efficiently than single or dual-flamed models.
Durable Design
What makes the LOTUS lighter one of the best cigar lighters is its durability. This top of the line unit is precision engineered, protecting it from damage. It’s effortless to carry with you, whether in a pocket, purse, or backpack.
Another massive contributor to the durability of this lighter is its flame adjustment. Similar to standard lighters, this quality model has an easy-to-use adjustment system.
Versatile
The versatility of the Lotus Duke V Serrated cigar cutter lighter cannot be understated, as it’s not only useful for cigars but also for cigarettes. The tremendous triple torch firepower is helpful for camping, kitchen uses, and as a part of survival kits.
Butane Fuel
As with any cigar cutter and lighter, it’s important to consider the type of fuel you’ll need. This model requires butane, which is typical for most. Also, note that the lighter arrives without fuel as per USPS safety regulations, so ensure you purchase some separately.
Pros
- Precision engineered
- Durable
- Serrated triple flame design
- Wind-resistant
- World renown
Cons
- Triple flame design can burn the wrapper on thinner cigars
- Not waterproof
Summary
Equipped with an adjustable flame, a fast refill nozzle, and built out of tough materials, this is one lighter you can rely on whether you’re an indoor or outdoor smoker.
2. Best Budget: Vertigo by Lotus Cyclone Triple Torch Cigar Lighter
Our Rating:
This butane lighter by Vertigo Parfums is well-built and designed to last. It also comes equipped with a quartz-powered ignition for faster heating action and a triple flame design.
Triple Flame
The triple flame design is perfect for thicker cigars, and allows you to quickly and evenly light cigars with a higher ring gauge.
Wind Resistant
If you’re tired of your low-powered lighter going out on you when you try to light your cigar outdoors, then you’ll appreciate this model’s powerful triple flame design that’s also wind-resistant.
Fuel Level Window
The transparent fuel level indicator window will make sure you never leave the house without filling up. Now, you can keep a close eye on the fuel level and refill as needed.
Quartz, Dual-Action Powered Ignition
One of the more luxurious features that make this unit the best torch lighter is its ignition. As mentioned, it’s quartz-powered and dual-action, ensuring the lighter heats effortlessly. Once you flick it to life, you’ll have a high-powered flame to evenly light cigars, cigarettes, and more.
Refillable Design
Instead of investing in an electric cigar lighter that runs out of power quickly, this unit is always ready to use. With its refillable design and a fuel level window, you’ll always know when you need more fuel. These features help ensure you always have a source of fire readily available to light a cigar throughout the day.
Included Fitted Pouch
Another unique feature that makes this unit one of the best cigar lighters is its fitted pouch. As an additional accessory, the pocket fits over the outside of the lighter for extra protection. It’s also styled similarly to the carbon fiber texture of the lighter, ensuring it still looks attractive.
Using the pouch, you can protect the exterior finish from scratches over time. It’s highly recommended for travel or for keeping your lighter in a backpack or pocket.
Pros
- Triple flame design
- Wind-resistant
- Transparent fuel level indicator window
- Two-pack
- Adjustable flame
- Low price
Cons
- Triple flames can burn cigar wrapper if not lit carefully
- Powerful flame is too much for thinner cigars
Summary
Powerful and efficient, this is a lighter you don’t want to leave the house without. If you’re looking for a lighter that can handle your thicker stogies, easily, then this is definitely the model you’ve been searching for.
3. Best Rechargeable: Dual Arc Plasma Lighter USB LcFun

Our Rating:
The first flameless cigar lighter to feature on our list is the dual arc USB lighter by LcFun. This lighter features a brand new design and comes with a lot of nice extras.
High-quality battery
You won’t need to worry about running out of battery as with this cigar lighter, you have the option to recharge wherever you are. Thanks to a strong lithium battery, which can hold around 1.5 hours’ full charge, this has the potential to light 40-60 cigars or cigarettes per charge. A USB port is also included, allowing users to charge with ease.
Flameless design
The Arc lighter has received an upgrade in its design and features no flames. This means it is pretty safe and helps prevent any accidental fires from occurring. It is also very weather resistant and will work well even in rainy and windy conditions.
Multiple color options
In terms of style, you won’t be disappointed at the various designs available. There are seven different colors including different shades of black and grey with several patterns to choose from.
Windproof
One of the largest benefits of an electric cigar lighter is that it’s windproof. With this model, you’ll never have to worry about finding optimal placement to light your cigar. As soon as you bring it to life, you’ll be able to get an even heating element to accommodate small and large cigars.
High-Quality Ignition
Whether you’re working with Amazon cigars or high-end ones, the high-quality ignition in this electric lighter is remarkable. It’s classified as a dual-arc, which is five times faster than single-arc lighters. You’ll fall in love with how quickly it sparks, ensuring you can light cigars with far less effort in all conditions.
High-Quality Build
When looking for a lighter that works well with Amazon cigars, the quality of the Dual-Arc Plasma Lighter USB LcFun is impressive. It features a high-temperature resistance with zinc alloy and ceramic plating. Moreover, it boasts remarkable longevity as well as a user-friendly design.
Pros
- Zero gas or fluid required
- Rechargeable
- Energy saving
- Lightweight
- Convenient
- USB port
Cons
- The battery can take a while to charge
Summary
LcFun offers all kinds of dual arc electronic cigarette lighters as well as various other designs. They have many different products and offer a lifetime guarantee with many of them.
4. Pard Windproof Cross Arc Lighter
Our Rating:
The next cigar lighter featured on our list is the rechargeable flameless electronic lighter by Pard. This infrared induction double arc cigar lighter is another no flame style much like that of the previous LcFun model, and also has USB rechargeable possibilities.
Plasma beam arc
This multi purpose lighter features a plasma beam arc and has a wider application. This means it will work much better in poor weather conditions, unlike a traditional lighter which struggles in wind or rain. There is no gas or fuel required to ignite this lighter, and it is easy to carry for both indoor and outdoor use.
Durable metal design
Most lighters wear very easily and leave you needing to buy another. With the Pard lighter, however — thanks to its durable metal material design —there will be no color fading, and it will guarantee that your charger will last a longer time than your more standard lighter.
USB rechargeable
With a USB charging port included in the design, you can easily charge your lighter whenever it needs it. It only requires 1 to 1.5 hours to fully charge, and you are ready to go.
Travel-Friendly
A massive advantage of this arc cigar lighter is that it’s a fabulous solution for travel, especially compared to the best torch lighter. You won’t need fuel to use it, so you can easily bring it with you on a plane, train, or even when driving long distances. Its plasma beam arc makes it one of the best high-quality lighters.
Pros
- USB rechargeable
- Doesn’t produce harmful gas
- Wider application
- No gas or fuel required
- Lightweight design
- Infrared induction double arc
- Durable metal material
Cons
- The battery didn’t last as long as hoped
Summary
Pard offers a selection of electronic goods for the home and products which will aim to make your life easier. Their arc lighters are popular and come in a variety of different designs, meaning you will find something which suits you.
5. The Burner by Alec Bradley – Tabletop Butane Cigar Lighter
Our Rating:
The final cigar lighter to feature on our list is a larger model by Alec Bradley. Unlike the previous lighters we reviewed, this one features a tabletop design and has a very sleek looking design. We take a more in-depth look at its key features below.
High-end design
If you like good quality and high-end products, this cigar lighter is the one for you. It features a very sophisticated look, and would look great on any office desk. With its Modern look, it is very stylish indeed, and perfect for fancy cigar lovers.
Butane tank
Unlike the previous models we looked at, the Alec Bradley lighter features a unique butane tank which is of very high capacity. This can keep your cigars lit and will not run out of fuel.
Easy to use
When it comes to using a cigar lighter, you want something that will be easy with no fuss. No need to worry as with The Burner, you simply ignite using a single button which ignites a powerful torch flame.
Versatile
This model might not be a cigar cutter and lighter, but it does have remarkable versatility. It’s undoubtedly one of the best butane lighters with a high-capacity tank. It’s not only helpful for lighting cigars, good cigarillos, and cigarettes but also for making creme brulee.
Pros
- High-end design
- Wind resistant
- Tabletop style
- High capacity butane tank
- Easy to use
- Large size
- sleek metal casing
- Movable head
Cons
- The lighter is shipped without butane
Summary
Alec Bradley manufactures a range of top quality products, and their cigar lighters are very in demand. Thanks to their durability and lifetime money back guarantee, they are the perfect option for cigar lovers.
Cigar Lighters Buyer’s Guide
When you’re shopping around for a lighter specifically for cigars, of course there’s going to be some key components that you’ll want to keep in mind before you buy. Choosing a lighter based on cigar sizes is probably the most important. Let’s say you decide to light up a cigar with a higher ring gauge using a single flame lighter. Well, the chances are it’s going to take forever to light and it’s not going to be lit well or evenly. Additionally, you’ll probably get tired of waiting for the cigar to light and you’ll end up burning the wrapper. This, of course, will have a major impact on the flavor and aroma, thus ruining your cigar. Because of this, it’s important to choose a model that’s right for you and the type of cigars you smoke so you don’t end up burning yourself or ruining your smoking experience.
The People’s Choice

So, why can’t you use a traditional lighter to light a cigar? Before you run out and buy the first cigar lighter you come across there are actually a few factors you’ll want to take into consideration. What type of cigars will you be smoking? What is the ring gauge size? Are you planning on smoking inside or outside? Do you want a lighter that’s powerful enough to quickly toast the foot? For most cigar enthusiasts, the best option is a torch lighter. Butane lighters often provide a high-temperature flame that’s perfect for lighting a cigar. Choosing a butane lighter will also provide the added benefit of being odorless so you won’t have to deal with a lingering flavor or the taste of gas. Additionally, this type of lighter will offer a wind-resistant flame and a quicker burn.
The Perfect Flame
There are a few different types of flames to choose from as well.
- Single flame torch models offer improved accuracy because of its single directional flame design. This style of lighter will also be a good option if your cigar starts going out as you smoke. However, this type of lighter can also take a longer time to toast your cigar. But one big plus is the fact that it uses less fuel.
- If you often smoke larger gauge cigars then a double flame model is a better choice. If you’re not new to cigar smoking then you know larger gauge cigars take longer to light. Because of this, the dual-flame lighter which is equipped with two jets, can help cut down on toasting time. However, using this type of lighter can make precise touch-ups difficult. But if you often find yourself smoking outdoors, then the added wind resistance is also a huge plus.
- Now, we’re on to the more powerful triple-flame style lighter. This type of lighter provides fast efficient lighting, however, since there are three jets you’ll find that you use up significantly more fuel than you do with a single jet lighter. And because of the increased power, you also increase the risk of burning the wrapper if you’re not careful. Outdoor smokers will also appreciate this type of lighter’s extra wind resistance, not to mention the shorter toasting time.
Is the Torch Lighter Really The Best Option?
Ask any cigar smoker, and they’ll tell you right off the bat that the torch lighter is the most efficient way to light a cigar. However, if you primarily smoke smaller cigars, or you smoke inside, then you can easily opt for a traditional soft flame lighter.
As I mentioned earlier, cigars that have a large ring gauge size should be lit with a torch lighter, especially if you smoke outdoors.
Inexpensive disposable lighters aren’t really designed for cigars. So, if you decide to go with a soft flame lighter, then opt for a model that runs on butane instead of liquid naphtha. Since butane flames are odorless it will not have an impact on the taste or aroma of your cigar.
Arc lighters are another option to use. Two of the best features are these lighters are windproof and rechargeable.
Other Important Features
Aside from lighter style and flame design what other features matter when you’re shopping around for a new lighter?
- The lighter you choose should have a retractable lid, or the lid should be designed to move out of the way once you push the ignition button. A fuel indicator window is also another great feature
- An adjustable flame is always a good option. You can purchase a more versatile lighter, which is needed if you’re both an indoor and outdoor smoker. Lower the flame when you’re smoking indoors, or increase the flame size if you’re headed outdoors on a windy day.
- Models that come equipped with the best cigar cutter are also very handy and convenient to use, however, these models are typically pretty pricey. Lower priced models come equipped with a cutter that quickly loses their edge. Like most things in life, you get what you pay for.
Why You Should Only Use Lighters that Run on Butane

Butane is a type of clean-burning fuel that will not impact the taste of your cigar, which is why you should always choose a butane lighter. Additionally, these lighters tend to produce a more precise flame, which will allow you to light your cigar evenly, which will also improve both the taste and your smoking experience. Most models are not affected by the wind and are also waterproof so you can light up pretty much anywhere. Keep in mind, that gasoline-fueled lighters often impact the taste of a cigar and not for the better.
Drawbacks of Butane Lighters
Fuel use is probably one of the biggest complaints most butane lighter owners have. This is especially true if you use a double or triple jet butane lighter since it burns quite a bit of fuel. The best lighter should be able to store enough fuel to light approximately 8 to 10 cigars. After this point, you’ll need to refill it.
The Safest Way to Light a Cigar
In the past, it was common knowledge that using a wooden match was the only right way to light a cigar. But while this used to be true, these days, most cigar enthusiasts believe that the only right way is to use a butane lighter. Fortunately, there are so many choices available. However, that can also make it difficult to find the right one.
You should only use a lighter that’s specifically designed for cigars. You should never use a cigarette lighter for the job. But why? To start, a cigarette doesn’t need to be cut before it’s lit, whereas, a cigar must be cut prior to lighting, and because of this, the cigar lighter is often equipped with a built-in cutter for convenience.
Next, lighting a cigar takes time. If you used a wooden match it wouldn’t last quite as long as what you would need to light a thick cigar. So, if you want to avoid burning your fingertips stick with a butane torch lighter.
Because it takes so much longer to light a cigar, using a traditional butane lighter can be potentially dangerous, which is why most lighters design for cigars have a broader flame. Liquid or gas cigarette lighters can also impact the taste of the cigar, which is definitely something you don’t want, especially if you only buy the finest cigars.
While cigarettes mostly remain the same shape and length, there are many different types and sizes of cigars to choose from. Because of this, they require a different type of flame. If you’re lighting your cigar outdoors, then torch flame lighters are definitely your best bet since they’re wind resistant and more powerful compared to gas-powered lighters. They can also be safely used indoors.
For more information on lighter use, stop by and read my guide on the proper way to light a cigar.
Routine Lighter Maintenance
If you decided to take the plunge and buy a butane lighter for your cigar smoking needs, then it’s important to learn how to clean and maintain it. These lighters don’t have very many moving parts and if they’re serviced correctly, they can last for decades. However, they need to be cleaned and have the fuel lines bled every two to three months, or depending on how often you use the lighter. Unfortunately, butane tends to leave behind a residue when it burns and not all types of butane are free from contaminants. This means that your lighter should be cleaned routinely, if you want to keep your lighter working like new.
Most smokers will tell you that they smoke for the calming and relaxing experience that comes with burning a good quality cigar. But if your lighter isn’t working properly it can ruin your whole smoking experience. So let’s quickly go over the steps on how you can care for your new lighter and what you need to do to prevent clogs and poor performance.
Bleeding

As I mentioned earlier, every two to three months the fuel lines need to be bled. This process will help get rid of any old fuel that may have built up over time. Any old fuel in the system will cause the flame to sputter which can make it difficult to light your cigar cleanly.’
- To bleed the fuel lines, all you need is a small screwdriver. The screwdriver should be used to press the filler nozzle down, which is located at the bottom of the lighter. To do, simply turn the lighter upside down, grab a screwdriver, and press down on the filler nozzle.
- Once it’s depressed you should hear a loud hissing sound. This sound is simply air escaping from the fuel reservoir.
- Next, you’ll need to shake the lighter vigorously and repeat the entire process two to three times until you can no longer hear the hissing sound when the filler nozzle is depressed. And that’s it.
How Often Should I Bleed My Lighter?
Every time the lighter is low on fuel, it’s a good time to bleed it. If the lighter you purchased doesn’t come with a fuel level window indicator, and you’re unable to determine if the fuel is getting low, then you can also determine the fuel level based on the quality of the flame.
Once you’ve noticed a dip in flame quality and it’s not as strong or as large as it is when the lighter is properly fueled up, this means that it’s time to bleed the system.
Cleaning Methods
It really doesn’t take much to clean out a butane lighter. All you really need for this job is a source of compressed air, a clean cloth, and a match. You can purchase a small can of compressed air if you don’t own an air compressor.
- Before you get started cleaning make sure that you’ve turned down the flame. This will protect you in the event that the lighter ignites when you’re cleaning it.
- The first step is using the wooden edge of the match to press down on the valve located at the bottom of the lighter where the fuel comes out. This will allow any excess air to escape, so basically, you’re quickly bleeding the line.
- Next you’ll clean out the combustion chamber. For this part of the cleaning process, you’ll need to use the can of compressed air to get rid of any contaminants including sweat and dirt, that have built up over time. After this task is complete then you can take time to inspect all the other crevices and ensure that they’re clean.
- The last step of the cleaning process involves using a soft microfiber cloth to polish the entire lighter. This will ensure that each and every surface is free from dust, dirt, loose tobacco, and other types of contaminants that can affect the lighter’s performance. Now would also be a good time to refill your lighter. Make sure that you only use the highest quality of butane fuel. Keep in mind, higher-quality fuel contains low levels of contaminants.
How frequently you clean your lighter will depend on how often you use it. If you smoke once or twice a day, then cleaning it weekly will suffice. If you smoke only on special occasions, then your lighter will benefit from monthly routine care.
I personally recommend cleaning it only when you notice a dip in performance, whether it’s a weaker flame or a flame that constantly flickers. Regular maintenance will not only keep your lighter in perfect working condition, but it can also ensure that your lighter lasts year after year.
Final Thoughts
The right type of lighter can bring out the true flavor of your cigar. With the best cigar lighter, you’ll be able to quickly toast and evenly light the finest cigar. If you spend a lot of money purchasing high-quality cigars, then it makes sense that you invest in a cigar lighter that’s of the same quality.
Of course, as I mentioned earlier, you should choose a lighter that will work with the type of cigar you smoke. As an example, a single flame butane torch lighter is a better choice if you normally smoke thinner cigars, while a triple flame butane torch lighter is a great alternative for thicker cigars. Do your research and find a model that will suit your smoking needs and your budget. Keep in mind, higher priced lighters are designed to last and don’t consume quite as much fuel as lower-priced models. I hope my buyer’s guide has helped you to find a model that will suit your smoking needs, enhance your smoking experience, and one that brings out the flavor and aroma of your favorite cigar, like the perfect lighter is meant to.
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