When it comes to lighting up, you’ll see that there are a few types of lighter flame styles out there. The two most common you’ll come across are soft flames and torch flames. Both have their own advantages as well as disadvantages. The reason I am writing this post isn’t to tell you which is better or worse but to simply let you know the differences as well as what I consider the pros and cons of both. So, let’s jump right into to the soft flame vs torch debate.
First, I want to go over my favorite type of lighter, which is the torch flame lighter. The majority of the lighters in my ridiculous collection are torches. I have to admit I am a little biased, but I’ll do my best to keep it as neutral as I can.
Torch Flames
These generate a super hot, pointed flame that is much more powerful than a soft flame. The flame is made by the butane fuel being forced through a small nozzle and ignited by a piezo ignition spark. Torch flames get up to around 2300 degrees. Because of the crazy hot and powerful flame, lighting up in the windiest weather is so much easier. Furthermore, they provide a more accurate flame that rapidly heats up a particular area.
Torch Flame Pros
Torch flame lighters work well even in windy conditions, as the flame is more focused and less likely to go out.
Torch flame lighters can be lit at almost any angle.
There are many different types of torch flame lighters that have multiple flames. You’ll find that there are many that have as many as 4 torch flames on a single lighter.
Torch flame lighters produce a stronger flame that lights items much faster than soft flame lighters. This makes torch flames perfect for even the largest gauge cigars.
Torch Flame Cons
Torch flames are so much hotter and can easily scorch cigars if you are not careful. Scorching a delicate cigar can ruin the taste and flavor.
Torch lighters are generally more expensive than soft flame lighters.
Torch flame lighters require more maintenance than soft flame lighters, simply because they are more complex. Regular maintenance and flame adjustment are super important for keeping a torch in the best working order.
And now, let’s take a quick look at the other common flame type.
Soft Flames
The soft flame has a less intense flame that is similar to the flame of a candle. The soft flame is created by using a flint wheel combination and an unpressurized fuel, also usually butane. The soft flame is around 1400 degrees giving you more control over the heat, preventing overheating or scorching of whatever you happen to be lighting up.
Soft Flame Pros
Soft flame lighters rarely fail simply because they are uncomplicated when compared to torch flame lighters.
With the exception of high-end or luxury lighters, soft flame lighters tend to be cheaper than torch flame lighters
The soft flame is gentler on cigars as well as other smoking materials. This makes it much harder to scorch or burn fine cigars that will ruin the flavor.
Soft Flame Cons
The majority of soft flame lighters are terrible in even a light breeze. Keeping a soft flame lit on a windy day can be a real pain.
Soft flame lighters can take a bit longer to light when compared to torch flame lighters. This is simply because the soft flame isn’t as strong or nearly as hot.
Soft Flame VS Torch Is one better than the other?
As I said earlier, I am a little more biased toward torch flame lighters, but that is by no means that soft flame lighters are not good. I have plenty of soft flame lighters in my collection and I really like the ones I have. With all that being said, for me, it comes down to personal preference. I have to say that there is nothing wrong with using both types.
I’d love to hear your thoughts about which type of lighter flame you prefer and why you like it. Drop a comment down below or shoot us a message on the contact page to share your opinion!