Quick Answer: The best cigar lighters are torch lighters (single, double, or triple flame) for their windproof reliability and concentrated heat. Top picks: Xikar Allume Double Jet (best overall, ~$50), Vertigo Cyclone Triple (best value, ~$15), and S.T. Dupont Ligne 2 (best luxury, ~$800+). Avoid regular Bic lighters — their fluid flavor taints the cigar.
Our cigar enthusiasts at Flight Wine Bar have tested dozens of lighters across price points. Here are the types that matter and our top picks in each category.
Cigar Lighter Types Compared
| Type | Flame | Wind Resistance | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Torch | Concentrated jet | Excellent | Precision toasting | $10-60 |
| Double Torch | Two jets | Excellent | All-around best | $20-100 |
| Triple Torch | Three jets | Excellent | Large ring gauge cigars | $15-80 |
| Quad Torch | Four jets | Excellent | Maximum speed | $25-60 |
| Soft Flame | Traditional flame | Poor | Purists, indoors | $20-1000+ |
| Cedar Spills | Natural wood | Very poor | Traditional ritual | $5-15/pack |
Top Picks by Category
Best Overall: Xikar Allume Double Jet (~$50)
The Xikar Allume combines a reliable piezo ignition, consistent double jet flame, and Xikar’s lifetime warranty — arguably the best warranty in the lighter industry. The ergonomic design feels natural in hand, the fuel window shows remaining butane level, and it lights first-click every time in our testing. If you buy one cigar lighter, make it this one.
Best Value: Vertigo Cyclone Triple Torch (~$15)
Remarkable performance at a budget price. The triple flame toasts large ring gauge cigars quickly and evenly. Build quality is good (not great) — expect 2-3 years of regular use before the ignition mechanism shows wear. At $15, replacement is painless. An excellent starter lighter or backup.
Best Luxury: S.T. Dupont Ligne 2 (~$800+)
The Rolls-Royce of lighters. Each Ligne 2 is hand-assembled in France with a distinctive “ping” sound when opened. The soft flame is ideal for indoor smoking and purists who reject torch lighters. Refillable, repairable, and built to last decades. A statement piece as much as a functional tool.
How to Light a Cigar Properly
- Toast the foot first: Hold the flame 1-2 inches from the cigar foot and rotate slowly until the wrapper edge begins to glow. Do not let the flame touch the tobacco directly.
- Draw and light: Put the cigar in your mouth, continue holding the flame near (not touching) the foot, and draw gently. Rotate while drawing for even ignition.
- Check the burn: After lighting, blow gently on the foot to see if the entire surface is evenly lit. Touch up any dark spots with the lighter.
For cigar storage and care, see Cigar Aficionado.
Lighter Maintenance and Care
A quality cigar lighter is an investment that lasts years with proper care. Use only premium refined butane (Xikar, Colibri, or Nibo brand) — cheap butane contains impurities that clog torch jets and cause inconsistent flame. Before each refill, purge the tank completely by pressing the refill valve with a small tool until all residual gas escapes. This prevents air pockets that cause sputtering. Clean torch nozzles monthly with compressed air to remove debris. Store lighters at room temperature — extreme cold thickens butane and extreme heat can cause dangerous pressure buildup.
Lighter Accessories Worth Owning
- Premium butane: Xikar High Performance Butane (~$8/can) provides the cleanest burn and longest jet life
- Leather lighter case: Protects your investment during travel and adds a touch of elegance
- Punch cutter combo: Some lighters (like the Xikar HP4) include a built-in cigar punch — combining two essential tools
- Travel humidor: If you carry cigars and a lighter, a quality 5-count travel humidor keeps everything together and protected
Torch Lighter Troubleshooting Guide
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No flame, clicking sound | Empty tank or clogged jet | Refill with quality butane; clean jet with compressed air |
| Weak, yellow flame | Low fuel or altitude | Refill tank; adjust flame height for your altitude |
| Sputtering flame | Air in fuel tank | Purge tank completely, then refill |
| Flame too high | Adjustment dial maxed | Turn adjustment dial toward minus; purge and refill |
| No ignition, no click | Dead piezo crystal | Replace lighter if not repairable; use warranty |
Single vs. Double vs. Triple Flame — Which to Choose?
Single torch lighters provide the most precise flame control — ideal for small ring gauge cigars (42 gauge and under) where you need to toast carefully without charring the wrapper. Double torch lighters are the all-around best choice, providing even coverage for standard ring gauges (48-54 gauge) with good fuel efficiency. Triple and quad torch lighters toast large ring gauge cigars (56+ gauge) quickly but consume butane 2-3 times faster than single torches. Most experienced cigar smokers own both a single and a double torch lighter to cover all situations.
Travel Considerations for Cigar Lighters
Most butane torch lighters are TSA-approved for carry-on luggage when empty of fuel, though enforcement varies by airport. For international travel, check destination country regulations — some nations restrict lighter imports. Always empty your lighter completely before flying and refill at your destination. Many cigar shops at airports sell disposable torch lighters specifically for travelers. If your lighter is confiscated unexpectedly, having a backup single-flame lighter costing under $10 means the loss is painless rather than devastating.
Conclusion
Torch lighters are the best choice for most cigar smokers — they are windproof, precise, and produce a clean, odorless butane flame. The Xikar Allume Double Jet is our top recommendation for its lifetime warranty and flawless reliability. Budget buyers should grab the Vertigo Cyclone at $15.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a Zippo to light a cigar?
Technically yes, but purists avoid it. Zippo fluid can impart a slight chemical taste to the cigar, especially during the initial lighting. If you must use a Zippo, let the flame burn for 2-3 seconds before bringing it to the cigar.
How often should I refill a butane torch lighter?
A fully filled double torch lighter typically provides 15-25 lights before needing a refill. Use premium butane (Xikar, Colibri, or Nibo) for cleaner combustion and fewer jet clogs.
Why does my torch lighter sputter?
Air trapped in the fuel tank is the most common cause. Purge the tank completely (press the refill valve with a small tool until all gas escapes), then refill with quality butane. Also check that the flame adjustment is not set too high.
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