11 Best Cigar Lighters: Torch, Soft Flame, and Luxury Brands

Chris, Chief Editor

Updated Nov 7, 2023

Human experts carefully evaluate our content

A cigar lighter is designed to produce consistent and even heat to light a cigar properly. Unlike regular lighters, cigar lighters produce a hotter and broader flame to evenly light the foot of a cigar as cigars are thicker and denser than cigarettes. An even burn is necessary to smoke and enjoy a cigar’s full flavor profile and aroma.

Distinguishing between the best cigar lighters often boils down to a few key attributes. The flame type and its adjustability play a key role in determining the lighter’s suitability for different cigars. Whether a soft flame for a gentle light or a powerful torch for thicker cigars, the flame’s quality makes or breaks the initial smoking experience.

Beyond the flame, the build quality and reliability are something you should keep in mind. A well-constructed lighter not only lasts longer but also ensures consistent performance with a fantastic look and feel.

“Nothing is more annoying than a pretty but useless cigar lighter that stops working after a few cigar sessions.” – Chris

Among the plethora of options available, five cigar lighters stand out as the best in their respective categories.

• Xikar Verano Flat-flame Lighter is renowned for its unique flame design for even toasting.
• Colibri Julius pays homage to tradition with its soft double flame.
• The ST Dupont Défi Extreme is celebrated for its unparalleled performance and luxury design.
• The Lotus Brawn Lighter impresses with its powerful quad flame.
• The S.T. Dupont Ligne 2 epitomizes luxury, making every lighting experience memorable.

Dive in as I explore these and other exceptional lighters, each offering a unique blend of functionality and style.

1. Best Torch Lighter: Xikar Verano Flat-flame Lighter

Description: The Xikar Verano is a distinctive torch lighter that stands out with its unique flat flame. Rather than producing a pointed column of fire, it spreads the flame in a flat brush-like manner. This innovative design is reminiscent of a paintbrush, allowing for an even toasting and lighting of cigars.

The Flame: The Verano’s flame, when adjusted to its lower settings, appears like a ‘W’, and at its most open, resembles the shape of a spade. This flat flame design promotes a more even lighting process than your run-of-the-mill torch lighters, reducing the chances of scorching the foot or sides of a cigar.

Build Quality: The Verano is not just about aesthetics; its build quality is commendable. It feels solid in hand, yet it’s pocket-friendly. The ignition mechanism remains steadfast even after frequent use, and the lighter’s overall durability is evident in its daily performance.

Availability: The Xikar Verano torch lighter is available in four distinct colors: black, silver, G2 gunmetal, and vintage bronze. Each variant is priced at a retail price of $99.

Pros:

• Even toasting and lighting for all cigar sizes.
• Compact and pocket-friendly design.
• Reliable ignition mechanism.
• Fuel-efficient.

Cons:

• Flame visibility can be challenging in bright lighting conditions.
• Some signs of wear and tear with regular use.

Recommendation: Xixar Verani is the best torch lighter for even cigar lighting. If you’re contemplating a new torch lighter, the Xikar Verano is worth considering with its unique flat flame design combined with Xikar’s reputation for quality cigar accessories.

2. Best soft flame lighter: Colibri Julius

Description: Gentlemanly elegance meets superior design in the incredible Colibri Julius soft flame lighter. Drawing its name from the company’s founder, Julius Lowenthal, the lighter symbolizes his passion for creating high-quality products featuring sophisticated design and technology since 1928. This powerful yet refined lighter caters flawlessly to both the aesthetic and practical needs of cigar enthusiasts.

The Flame: The soft flame of the Colibri Julius is a dual flame that angles and converges into one, covering a large surface area for the perfect light for a cigar. This function has been intelligently crafted to serve the most extensive cigars without any difficulty. With the oversized roll bar, ignition is effortless and the flame’s strength can be easily adjusted with a gentle twist of the new touch fuel wheel.

Build Quality: Its metal body, overlaid with a diamond-pattern texture, assures a solid grip and timeless appeal. Eight stunning color variations cater to diverse tastes. The butane refillable lighter offers a reliable burn, persistently meeting Colibri’s high-quality standards.

Availability: Available for purchase at $135 on the official Colibri website, the Julius is an investment in elegance and functionality.

Pros:

• Unique dual soft flame.
• Exquisite, durable construction.
• Wide choice of colors.
• Easy thumb ignition.

Cons:

• Fuel gauge visibility could be improved.
• Not for outdoor use due to the soft flame.

Recommendation: Highly commended by users, the Colibri Julius is the best soft flame lighter and undeniably a top contender, even among premium lighters. A beautiful design and an innovative flame caters to all cigar sizes.

3. Best Premium Affordable: ST Dupont Défi Extreme

Description: The ST Dupont Défi Extreme is a quality cigar lighter. Originating from a lineage of luxury, the Défi Extreme maintains its signature large metal body adorned with a guilloche pattern. The lighter has been meticulously crafted to withstand challenging conditions and is a favorite among cigar aficionados worldwide.

The Flame: Défi Extreme has a dual flame system, where two jet flames are angled together, which produce a stronger and more potent flame. The flame’s intensity is adjustable but some users have noted the adjustment gauge to be limited, which makes fine-tuning a bit tricky.

Build Quality: This lighter is built to perform under extreme conditions, just to mention a few include functioning at altitudes up to 3,500 meters, in temperatures ranging from -10° C to +45° C, and even standing its ground in winds ranging from 50-61 km/h. While this all sounds cool, I doubt anyone will try to light a cigar in a snowy blizzard for enjoyment.

Availability: The Défi Extreme’s popularity means it’s available from various retailers, including Amazon, from time to time. The cigar lighter has a range of colors to choose from.

Pros:

• Flame Quality: The dual flame system provides a powerful and accurate flame.
• Durability: Withstands challenging weather conditions, a clear Zippo contender.
• Fuel Gauge: The oversized window makes it easy to monitor butane levels.
• Design: Unique X-shaped design and guilloche pattern.

Cons:

• Fuel Reservoir: Some have noted that the lighter doesn’t seem to fill up entirely, even after bleeding.
• Flame Adjustment: The limited travel of the adjustment gauge.

Recommendation: The ST Dupont Défi Extreme is the best premium affordable cigar lighter for various weather conditions.

4. Best quad flame lighter: Lotus Brawn Lighter

Description: Lotus Brawn is a quadruple flame torch lighter recognized for its unique cylinder-like ignition mechanism and a curved lid that doubles as a cigar rest (smart!). The main advantage of this torch lighter is its ability to provide the intensity of four flames while maintaining the accuracy of smaller torch lighters, and it’s aesthetically a beautiful cigar lighter.

The Flame: Each torch is strategically angled to converge at a point above the lighter, giving you the power of four flames while preserving accuracy. The lighter also comes with an oversized flame adjuster at its base to easily control the flame’s intensity.

Build Quality: Constructed with an all-metal body, the Lotus Brawn feels solid in hand, weighing approximately 8 ounces. The metal body looks gorgeous and not only adds to its durability but also ensures that the lighter doesn’t get too hot during use.

Availability (Where to buy and how much it costs): The Lotus Brawn is priced at $49 and comes with a two-year limited warranty. It can be purchased from various online retailers, including Amazon, when in stock.

Pros:

• Unique ignition mechanism
• Angled jets
• All-metal body
• User-friendly flame adjuster.
• Curved lid that doubles as a cigar rest
• Competitive price point for a quad-flame lighter

Cons:

• No fuel window to check butane levels.
• Might be too powerful for lighting smaller cigars
• Some might find it slightly heavy at around 8oz (226 grams)

Recommendation: Lotus Brawn is the best quad flame lighter for a blend of power and precision. Its unique design and functionality make it suitable for personal use and as a gift.

5. Best luxury cigar lighter: S.T. Dupont Ligne 2

Description: The S.T. Dupont Ligne 2 is a luxurious cigar lighter known for its premium build and fine craftsmanship. The rectangular design is iconic to the Ligne 2 series, which is cherished among cigar enthusiasts for its distinctive “ping” sound when opened. This exquisite lighter is an evolution of the Ligne 1 collection from the 1960s and was developed in partnership with the jeweler Jean Dinh Van. The Ligne 2 includes a fine array of luxurious finishes.

The Flame: Ligne 2 is equipped with a high-performance ignition system and has a sophisticated soft flame that is regulated with a dial at the bottom. It also features a double flame, making it a reliable choice for indoor use. If you’re looking for a lighter that works well indoors and outdoors, consider the similarly styled S.T. Dupont La Grand version for a dual soft flame adjustable to a torch flame with the flip of the switch.

Build Quality: The exceptional build quality transforms each S.T. Dupont Ligne 2 lighter into a genuine work of art. Attention to detail sets these lighters apart as they embody high-standard craftsmanship and excellent functionality. The luxury lighter is rectangular in shape, a favorite design across generations, with sleek lines that enhance its timeless look. The lighter is constructed with a palladium base and is available in various finishes such as white lacquer, gold, and others.

Availability: S.T. Dupont Ligne 2 cigar lighters are available from specialty smoke shops and the official S.T Dupont website.

Pros:

• Superior build quality with high-end, luxury materials
• Precise flame adjustment system, suitable for lighting cigars
• Timeless and elegant design

Cons:

• Ultra premium price point

Recommendation: S.T. Dupont Ligne 2 is the best luxury cigar lighter for a true cigar enthusiast who appreciates luxury, functionality, and design.

6. Best tabletop cigar lighter: Xikar Volta

Description: The Xikar Volta is a quad flame tabletop lighter, the first of its kind in the Xikar lineup, which started its journey in 1997 and has maintained its philosophy of high-quality materials. This product is built on a robust foundation and designed to make a statement on any table with its size and form. A unique feature of the Volta is its high-tech camera aperture-inspired lid, which protects the quad burners and can be easily opened with a twist. The oversized push-button ignition aligns seamlessly with the cylindrical metal body, giving it a very commanding presence, fit for any high-value man.

The Flame: The Volta boasts a quad-jet flame, and once ignited, the four individual jets combine to form a massive blue flame. This flame is capable of warming the entire foot of a cigar simultaneously for an even light. Adjustability is a breeze with its oversized ratcheting adjustment wheel to set the flame to your desired height with precision.

Build Quality: The Volta is constructed with a durable metal body for a simple yet elegant design with its sleek look and a solid feel. The lighter also features vented windows for consistent and reliable lighting, and the red hue fuel gauge makes it simple to monitor fuel levels.

Availability: The Volta was introduced at IPCPR 2015 in New Orleans and is today available in Black, G2, and Silver colors on Amazon for $149. The body of the lighter can also be laser engraved for personalization.

Pros:

• High-performance quad flame
• Durable metal construction
• Oversized push button
• Large capacity fuel tank
• Easy fuel adjustment system

Cons:

• Super heavy tabletop lighter that is not portable
• Hefty price tag compared to other lighters

Recommendation: Xikar Volta is the best tabletop cigar lighter for a smoking room or lounge with reliable and heavy-duty build quality.

7. Best lighter with punch and cutter: Cohiba Single Jet

Description: The Cohiba single jet lighter and cutter combo is a luxurious set that combines two essential tools for cigar enthusiasts: a windproof torch lighter and a sharp steel double-bladed cigar cutter. This set is presented in an elegant gift box. Cohiba is renowned in the cigar world and this combo will be recognized and appreciated by most who receive it.

The Flame: The lighter features a windproof single jet torch flame for a consistent and reliable light, even in breezy conditions. This torch flame is refillable with butane gas, and the lighter comes with two built-in cigar punch cutters (5mm & 8mm) suitable for both small and larger cigars.

Build Quality: The lighter is built with a robust and elegant design and the cutter comes with sharp steel double blades that can easily cut through a variety of cigars with its 23mm diameter.

Availability: The Cohiba set is available on the JohnnyCohiba website in two color options: Gray and Yellow.

Pros:

• Lighter and cutter in one set
• Great value and an ideal gift
• Windproof torch flame
• Decent double-bladed cigar cutter
• Included cigar punch cutters

Cons:

• Limited color choices.

Recommendation: Cohiba single jet lighter and cutter combo is the best lighter with punch and cutter for gifting a complete package.

8. Most reliable cigar lighter: Xikar Ultra

Description: The Xikar Ultra Mag is a single-jet flame lighter with a magnetic metal body and a refined ignition mechanism. The main allure of this product is its reliability for a consistent light every time.

The Flame: Ultra Mags single-jet flame is wind-resistant and altitude-tested up to 11,000 ft. It’s controlled, focused, and designed for precision with an adjustable flame.

Build Quality: The Ultra Mag boasts a heavy, rectangular body that feels substantial when you use it for the first time. Its design features revamped air vents and a fuel window that has been redesigned for easier viewing. Some users have reported issues with the ignition mechanism but Xikar has a free lifetime service for their product lineup.

Availability: Ultra Mag is available in three color options: black, gunmetal, and silver, priced at $79 and purchasable directly from Xikar’s official website. There’s also an option to buy the lighter as part of the Ultra Mag Set with a matching ultra-slim cigar cutter.

Pros:

• Precision ignition
• Wind-resistant flame
• Magnetic attachment system
• Excellent build quality

Cons:

• Magnet could be stronger

Recommendation: Xikar Ultra Mag is the most reliable cigar lighter for casual and seasoned cigar smokers.

9. Best budget cigar lighter: Colibri EVO Angled Single Jet Flame Lighter

Description: The Colibri EVO is a decent option for those seeking a budget cigar lighter. While it doesn’t top the charts, it offers a reasonable performance for its price point. Colibri, a brand with a history in the lighter industry, presents this compact lighter as an affordable choice for occasional cigar smokers.

The Flame: Colibri EVO features a single jet flame for a consistent lighting experience. While it doesn’t have the most advanced adjustability features, it does allow for basic flame control, suitable for its budget category.

Build Quality: Constructed with a focus on cost-effectiveness, the Colibri EVO has a build and feel that’s satisfactory for its price. It’s not the most robust lighter on the market, but it’s reliable enough for occasional use. Its compact design and the pachmayr grip are appreciated for a steady grip.

Availability: Colibri EVO is available on Amazon and the official Colibri website.

Pros:

• Affordable price point
• Compact and portable design
• Consistent single-jet flame

Cons:

• Limited fuel capacity
• Not the most durable build

Recommendation: The Colibri EVO is the best budget lighter for occasional cigar smokers who are not looking to invest heavily in a lighter.

10. Best electric lighter: Tesla Coil Arc

Description: The Tesla Coil Arc Lighter is a revolutionary electric cigar lighter that harnesses the power of electricity to ignite your cigarillos. It stands out as a modern alternative to traditional butane lighters with a windproof and flameless solution. The lighter is more suited for lighting thinner cigarillos than regular cigars due to the small plasma coil. Its primary benefit is the elimination of butane and harmful chemicals for a cleaner and more eco-friendly way to light up.

The Flame: Unlike conventional lighters, the Tesla Coil doesn’t produce a concentrated flame. Instead, it generates an electric arc between two nodes with an adjustable intensity. It is challenging to light a cigar evenly due to the design.

Build Quality: Crafted with a sleek finish, the Tesla Coil feels premium with a good enough build quality. The lighter also comes with a safety feature that prevents accidentally starting the lighter in your pocket.

Availability: The Tesla Coil Arc Lighter is readily available on platforms like Amazon, priced competitively.

Pros:

• Windproof and flameless design
• Eco-friendly
• Sleek and durable build
• Safety features
• Rechargeable

Cons:

• Not ideal for lighting cigars
• Requires frequent recharging for heavy users

Recommendation: The Tesla Coil Arc Lighter is the best electric lighter for thin cigarillos or regular cigarettes.

11. Best Portable Lighter: ST Dupont Hooked

Description: The S.T. Dupont Hooked Sad-O lighter is a compact and luxurious little cigar lighter. This portable lighter, despite its small stature, radiates a sense of opulence and quality that S.T. Dupont is known for.

The Flame: Hooked is a single torch flame lighter with mild wind-resistant properties, great for indoor settings and calm outdoor environments.

Build Quality: Crafted with precision, the Hooked Sad-O lighter showcases S.T. Dupont’s unmatched skill and expertise in the art of fire with a high-performance piezo ignition mechanism akin to other luxurious lighters from the brand. Each piece is not only lightweight but also robust, and it comes with a two-year warranty.

Availability: Hooked is priced at $69 and is purchased directly from the S.T. Dupont official online store. With its global reputation, S.T. Dupont products are available in luxury boutiques and select online retailers.

Pros:

• Compact and portable design
• Reliable torch flame
• Premium build quality
• Two-year warranty

Cons:

• Priced higher than typical small lighters
• Require dedicated refills from the brand

Recommendation: The S.T. Dupont Hooked Sad-O is the best portable cigar lighter with a touch of luxury.

What Should You Consider While Choosing The Best Cigar Lighter?

The factors to consider while choosing the best cigar lighter are flame type, flame adjustability, build quality, look and feel, and ease of use. Here’s a deeper dive:

1. Flame Type: A single flame is ideal for lighting individual cigars, focusing on the foot for an even burn. For those indulging in multiple cigars or larger sizes, a torch with multiple flames is preferred.
2. Flame Adjustability: An adjustable flame is simply a necessity as air alters the burning process.
3. Build Quality: Opt for a lighter with a large fuel tank whenever possible.
4. Look and Feel: Beyond functionality, an attractive design is appreciated for the overall cigar experience.
5. Ease of Use: A top-tier lighter should ignite on the first try, be simple to refill, and maintain a steady flame without constant adjustments.

How to light a cigar with a lighter?

To light a cigar with a lighter, begin by holding the cigar at a 45-degree angle and toast the foot of the cigar by rotating it above the flame. With the cigar’s foot toasted, place it between your lips. Bring the lighter close and puff gently without inhaling any smoke. Rotate for an even burn. Keep on lighting the cigar until the entire foot is evenly lit with a nice glow.

Do electric lighters work on cigars?

Electric lighters are not optimal for lighting cigars. Due to the thickness of cigars, achieving an even burn with the narrow arc of an electric lighter is challenging. Traditional butane lighters or matches are preferred for a consistent light and to maintain the cigar’s flavor profile. While electric lighters can ignite cigars, they don’t offer the best experience.

How to use a cigar punch on a lighter?

Using a built-in cigar punch (a type of cigar cutter) is a straightforward process. First, locate the cigar punch, typically retractable at the base or side of your lighter. Extend or expose the punch blade. Firmly hold the cigar and place the punch on the center of the cigar’s cap. Apply gentle pressure and twist the punch, cutting a circular hole. Remove the plug of tobacco, retract the punch, and you’re ready to light. This method provides a clean cut, preserving the cigar’s structure and optimizing airflow for a smooth draw.