Soft Flame vs. Torch Flame For Cigar: Which Is Best for Your Smokes?

Every cigar smoker knows the ritual starts with the light. Whether you’re sparking up at home, on the golf course, or in a cigar lounge, the type of cigar lighter you use can impact the flavor, burn quality, and overall experience. But with so many options out there, one of the most common questions is: Should I use a soft flame or torch flame lighter for cigars?

Soft flames are traditional and require patience, whereas torches are more powerful and accurate. In this guide, we’ll compare soft flame lighters vs. torch flame lighters, highlight key differences and similarities, and help you decide which is right for your cigar lifestyle. We’ll also spotlight Xikar torch lighters and Xikar soft flame lighters, including two of their best sellers in each category.

💨 What Is a Soft Flame Lighter?

Soft flames bring us back to the old way of doing things. A soft flame lighter produces a gentle, candle-like flame similar to a match. This traditional lighting method is preferred by many purists who want to slowly toast the foot of the cigar without overwhelming heat.

You need to be patient with this one, unlike a Cigar Torch Lighter, you need to slowly toast the foot of the cigar while turning it carefully. Some smokers like this method better because it takes longer but gives them a more conventional feeling.

The downside is that soft flame lighters don't work well outside. The heat isn't as strong, and the flame can easily go out in the wind. But if you utilize them right, they give a delicate start that many people say makes the flavor better.

✅ Pros:

• Elegant and classic method that a lot of smokers like
• The soft flame, like a candle, keeps delicate flavors.
• Ideal for small ring gauge cigars
• Great for indoor smoking
• Provides full control over the lighting process
• No harsh combustion or over burning

⚠️ Cons:

• Not wind-resistant, so they are best inside.
• Takes longer to light larger cigars

• Less heat makes it hard to smoke cigars with big ring gauges.

🔥 What Is a Torch Flame Lighter?

A torch flame cigar lighter, also known as a jet flame lighter, is made to work every time. It uses pressurized butane to create an intense, windproof flame that burns at around 2,500°F. These are engineered for efficiency and precision especially when lighting thicker cigars or when you’re outdoors. 

Cigars ignited with a torch flame are less likely to tunnel or canoe than those lit with matches or soft flame lighters. The heat strongly toasts the foot, which keeps the cigar's shape and makes sure it starts off smoothly.

✅ Pros:

• Powerful, consistent flame.
• A flame that is very hot (around 2,500°F) and ignites cigars quickly and evenly
• Wind-resistant – great for outdoor smoking
• Options for several jets easily handle large cigars
• Lights large ring cigars quickly and evenly
• Easy one-handed operation
• Efficient: lasts longer between refills and uses less fuel
• Brands like Xikar offer lifetime warranties, durability, and a good grip.

⚠️ Cons:

• Can burn or get too hot if you're not careful
• Higher fuel usage
• Need refined butane to keep from getting clogged
• More pieces entail more work and a greater expense.
• Not as elegant for lounge or slow-smoking environments

🔍 Key Differences: Soft Flame vs. Torch Flame

💎 Best Xikar Torch Lighters 

Xikar Ion Dual Flame Torch Lighter

Xikar Tactical Single Flame Torch Lighter

🎩 Best Xikar Soft Flame Lighters (Class & Control) 

Xikar Pipeline Soft Flame Lighter For Pipes

• Soft flame with angled port
• Flint ignition
• Includes pipe tamper and scraper
• Altitude tested to 12,000 ft

Xikar EX Soft Flame Windproof Lighter

🧠 The Best Cigar Lighters: The Right Flame for the Right Moment

Choosing between a soft flame and torch flame lighter doesn’t have to be either/or because it depends on your environment, cigar size, and personal preferences. For elegance and tradition, soft flame wins. For power and performance, torch flame rules.

Regardless, Xikar continues to be the #1 choice of cigar lighters for cigar lovers: they build both types of lighters to exacting standards, with premium materials and lifetime warranties. So whether you’re toasting your favorite Robusto at home or lighting up a Churchill on the 9th hole, Xikar has the flame that fits.

At Trusted Home Goods, we carry the full line of Xikar cigar lighters, from rugged torch lighters to refined soft flame models. Whether you’re a weekend smoker or a seasoned aficionado, we’ve got the gear to match your pace and place.

🔗 Shop Now the Cigar Lighters and Accessories collection at Trusted Home Goods