Wooden humidor with cigars, torch lighter, and soft flame lighter side by side

When choosing a lighter, two common types often come to mind: the torch lighter and the soft flame lighter. 

Both serve the primary purpose of igniting fires, yet they possess distinct characteristics that make each suitable for specific uses and preferences. 

Understanding these differences can help you make informed decisions about which lighter will best serve your needs.

Key Differences Between Torch and Soft Flame Lighters

Torch and soft flame lighters serve unique purposes, each suited to specific needs. Torch lighters produce a high-temperature, wind-resistant "blue flame," ideal for lighting cigars, culinary tasks, and outdoor use.

Soft flame lighters offer a gentler flame for indoor and casual use, while torch lighters have adjustable flames and safety locks for more versatile applications.

1. Flame Type

  • Torch Lighter: Produces a concentrated, high-temperature flame that is wind-resistant and burns continuously as long as the trigger is pressed. The flame is often described as a "blue flame" or "torch flame" due to its intensity.
  • Soft Flame Lighter: Generates a softer, sometimes flickering flame that is sensitive to wind and movement. It resembles a traditional candle flame, which means it can be less effective outdoors during breezy conditions.

2. Temperature and Efficiency

  • Torch Lighter: Capable of reaching temperatures upward of 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit (1,370 degrees Celsius), making it ideal for tasks that require high heat, such as lighting cigars, culinary applications (like crème brûlée), or soldering.
  • Soft Flame Lighter: Generally reaches around 1,000 to 1,500 degrees Fahrenheit (538 to 815 degrees Celsius). Best suited for lighting cigarettes, candles, and small fires where high heat is unnecessary.

3. Fuel Source

  • Torch Lighter: Typically uses butane fuel, which is pressurized in a canister. The design allows for a controllable flame height, making it versatile for various applications.
  • Soft Flame Lighter: Can also use butane but is often refillable and has a simpler mechanism. Brands like Bic produce many soft flame lighters that are disposable or refillable.

4. Applications

Torch Lighter: 

  • Used by chefs for culinary purposes (e.g., caramelizing desserts).
  • Popular among cigar enthusiasts for an even burn.
  • Useful in DIY projects that require precise, high-temperature flames.

Soft Flame Lighter:

  • Commonly used for lighting cigarettes or incense.
  • Often preferred for personal use due to its simplicity and non-intimidating design.
  • Suitable for indoor use where a less intense flame is favored.

5. Safety Features

  • Torch Lighter: Usually equipped with safety locks and adjustable flame mechanisms. Their high-temperature output necessitates careful handling to prevent burns.
  • Soft Flame Lighter: Often built with simpler mechanisms, though they may still include safety features. Generally perceived as safer for users who may not be as experienced with handling fire.

Ideal Cigar Choices for Torch and Soft Flame Lighters

Selecting the right lighter can enhance your cigar experience, and choosing a suitable cigar is equally important. Some premium cigars pair especially well with each type of lighter based on their size, wrapper, and construction.

  • Torch Lighter Pairings: Consider cigars like the Oliva Serie V and Padron 1964 Anniversary Series, both known for their robust flavor profiles and construction, which benefit from the precise, high-temperature flame of a torch lighter.
  • Soft Flame Lighter Pairings: The Romeo y Julieta Reserva Real is another excellent choice for soft flame lighters, offering a smooth experience that pairs beautifully with the traditional candle-like flame.

By matching the right cigar with your choice of lighter, you can ensure an enjoyable and well-balanced smoking experience, whether you're savoring a bold torch-lit smoke or a more delicate, soft-flame option.

Real-World Examples

Torch lighters have recently surged in popularity across various professional fields, particularly among cigar and pipe enthusiasts. 

  • Increased Popularity: Torch lighters are favored among cigar and pipe users for their wind-resistant, high-temperature flame, offering a reliable option for outdoor and professional use.
  • Market Growth: The rise in torch lighter sales highlights a shift toward premium smoking accessories and a focus on quality experiences.
  • Everyday Use of Soft Flame Lighters: Soft flame lighters remain dominant in the everyday consumer market, particularly with disposable options like Bic, which generated approximately $1.4 billion in revenue in 2022.

While torch lighters appeal to a more specialized market, soft flame lighters continue to lead in convenience and accessibility, reinforcing their role as a staple in consumer use.

Make an Informed Choice

In conclusion, understanding the differences between torch and soft flame lighters is essential for selecting the right tool for your specific needs. 

By considering each lighter’s functionality, application, and safety features, you’ll be well-equipped with the perfect lighter for any occasion, ensuring an enhanced experience and optimal performance.

For premium cigars that elevate every smoking experience, visit online-cigars.com and explore a collection crafted to suit your preferences.

Key Insights:

These key insights help you choose the best lighter: torch lighters offer high heat and wind resistance, ideal for cigars; soft flame lighters provide a gentler flame for everyday use.

Choose a Torch Lighter If:

  • You need a high-temperature flame for culinary tasks or outdoor activities.
  • You frequently light cigars or require precision in ignition.
  • You are looking for a durable and wind-resistant option.

Opt for a Soft Flame Lighter If:

  • You are primarily lighting cigarettes, candles, or incense.
  • Convenience and ease of use are your main priorities.
  • You prefer a gentler, more traditional flame experience.