Lighting a cigar isn't something to be rushed. It's the first step in setting the tone for the entire smoke, and the tool you use can make a surprising difference. Many cigar smokers eventually reach the same question: Should I use a torch lighter or a normal lighter?

Both variants work; however, they perform differently, especially if you care about burn quality, flavor preservation, and consistency. Below, we go into the details of how each lighter works, how they affect your cigar, and which option is best for your preferred smoking style.

What Is a Torch Lighter?

The torch lighter, also sometimes referred to as a jet flame or blue flame lighter, relies on pressurized butane to produce a strong, concentrated flame. Instead of a soft, flickering flame, it produces a straight jet at high velocity, reaching extremely high temperatures.

How It Works

  • Butane is pressurized inside the tank.

  • It mixes with air when it's released through a narrow jet valve.

  • The ignition produces a sharp, blue, targeted flame.

Why the Torch Flame Is Better for Cigars

  • The flame burns 2–3 times hotter than a regular lighter.

  • The heat permits uniform toasting of the foot without ever having to touch the cigar directly.

  • Larger cigars ignite more easily and burn more evenly.

  • Wind resistance makes the flame steady outdoors.

Types of Torch Lighters

  • Single Jet: Precise, fuel-efficient

  • Double Jet: Balanced flame coverage

  • Triple Jet: Fast lighting for large-ring cigars

  • Quad Jet: Extremely powerful, ideal for quick ignition

Torch lighters are considered top cigar lighters because they offer performances that are tailored specifically to the needs of a cigar.

What Is a Normal (Soft Flame) Lighter?

A soft flame lighter, or a normal lighter, generates a gentle yellow flame similar to what you get from a match. These use butane or lighter fluid and burn at a much cooler temperature.

How Soft Flame Lighters Work

  • Fuel releases at low pressure.

  • Ignition produces a natural, flame-like burn.

  • Heat output is lower, making the flame softer and slower.

Where Soft Flames Work Best

  • Indoor smoking

  • Small-ring gauge cigars

  • Traditional-style lighting

  • Relaxed, slow cigar preparation

Limitations of Soft Flame for Cigars

  • Takes longer to heat the cigar's foot

  • Flame moves along with air flows, which makes the process much harder outside.

  • Requires patience to avoid uneven burns.

They're classic, comfortable, and nostalgic, but not always the most efficient.

Torch vs Normal Lighter: Detailed Side-by-Side Comparison

1. Flame Temperature

  • Torch: ~2,500°F

  • Soft Flame: ~1,400°F

The hotter flame means torches light cigars much faster and more evenly.

2. Wind Resistance

  • Torch: Flame remains straight and stable

  • Soft Flame: Easily disrupted by wind or fans

A torch lighter does significantly better if you smoke in outdoor Florida conditions.

3. Burn Control

  • Torch lighters deliver a pinpoint flame, letting you control exactly how the cigar heats.

  • Soft flames require more technique to avoid burning one side faster than the other.

4. Lighting Speed

  • Torch lighters can light a cigar in 5–10 seconds.

  • Soft flames often take 20–40 seconds of careful toasting.

For thick cigars or tightly packed tobacco, a torch lighter offers a major advantage.

5. Fuel Type & Clean Burn

  • Butane torches burn clean and do not affect the cigar's natural flavor.

  • Fluid lighters, such as Zippo, are tainted and are generally shunned by aficionados.

How Each Lighter Affects Cigar Performance

Using a Torch Lighter

  • Provides a clean and even burn

  • Prevents tunneling

  • Reduces relights during the smoke.

  • Ideal for robustos, toros, gordos, and large ring gauges

Using a Normal Lighter

  • Offers a slower, gentler heat

  • Can create an even burn with time with patience

  • Better for smaller cigars, like coronas or panatelas.

  • Less suitable for windy environments

Pros & Cons of Torch Lighters

Pros

  • High temperature lights cigars quickly

  • The best choice for outdoor smoking

  • Great precision and consistency

  • Works well for all cigar sizes

  • Cleaner burn with quality butane

Cons

  • Higher fuel consumption

  • Must use refined butane to avoid clogging

  • Jets may require occasional maintenance.

Pros & Cons of Normal Lighters

Pros

  • Classic, retro-style lighting effect

  • Affordable and easy to use

  • Gentle on small cigars

  • Fuel lasts longer

Cons

  • Poor wind resistance

  • Easier to cause uneven toasting

  • Flavor is affected by fluid-based models.

  • Slower lighting process

Which Lighter Is Truly Better for Cigars?

If your goal is:

  • A clean burn

  • Strong flame

  • Fast ignition

  • Outdoor reliability

Then, in almost every situation, a torch lighter is the better choice.

Soft flame lighters are great for indoor smokers or those who like a more leisurely, almost ritualistic lighting experience-but they require more skill and patience.

How to Choose the Right Lighter for YOU

1. How Big Are the Cigars You Smoke?

  • Large cigars (54+ ring): Use a torch.

  • Small cigars: Both work fine.

2. Where Do You Normally Smoke?

  • Outdoors → Torch

  • Indoors → Soft or torch

3. What Style Do You Prefer?

  • Practical performance → Torch

  • Old-school elegance → Soft flame

4. Do You Like Unique Designs?

If you enjoy collecting accessories, browse unique cigar lighters with built-in punches, flip-tops, tabletop styles, or premium finishes.

Fuel Matters More Than You Think

Even the best lighter won't perform well without the right fuel.

Why Butane Is the Best Choice

  • Burns odor-free

  • Doesn’t affect the cigar flavor

  • Prevents clogging when using refined butane

  • Ideal for both torch and soft flame butane lighters

Avoid using lighter fluid lighters for cigars, as they leave a chemical aroma that interferes with flavor notes.

Common Mistakes Cigar Smokers Make With Lighters

  • Holding the flame too close

  • Overheating the cigar foot

  • Using cheap butane

  • Not purging before refilling

  • Lighting in windy areas with soft flames

  • Relighting too often because of poor initial toasting

Correcting these habits improves burn quality dramatically.

Best Cigar Lighter Types for 2025

1. Single Jet Torch Lighters

Great for precision and everyday use.

2. Triple Jet Torch Lighters

Perfect for large cigars and quick ignition.

3. Tabletop Lighters

Reliable for home smoking lounges.

4. Soft Flame Butane Lighters

Ideal for traditional indoor smokers.

5. Unique Cigar Lighters

Lighters with built-in cutters, punches, cigar rests, or creative designs.

Maintenance Tips for Long-Lasting Lighter Performance

  • Purge the air before refilling

  • Use triple-refined butane

  • Clean jets with a soft brush

  • Store upright

  • Keep dust caps closed on torch lighters

  • Avoid overfilling fuel tanks

Good maintenance ensures a steady flame and consistent performance.

Final Verdict: Torch vs Normal Lighter

For most cigar lovers, especially those smoking outdoors or enjoying larger cigars, the torch lighter is the clear winner. It offers power, precision, and the reliability needed for an even, flavorful cigar experience.

Normal lighters still have their place, but they’re more suited to relaxed indoor smoking and smaller cigars.

Choose the lighter that matches your routine, and your cigars will reward you with a smoother, more enjoyable smoke every time.