The Best Lighters To Keep On You For Handy Everyday Use

If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, SPY.com may receive an affiliate commission.

We’re in 2021, and nobody carries around a book of matches anymore. Lighters are traditionally used for tobacco or cannabis, but there are so many other uses for them beyond that. The best lighters are convenient, portable, and are one of those items that you usually have on you, like your smartphone and wallet. Whether you’re lighting a fire, a BBQ, or a candle, this round-up pays tribute to fire and all the different devices that provide it to us.

These important igniters come in all different forms, from electric to flame-based. While torch lighters are ideal for windy environments and reliability, ones with more extended silhouettes can get to tricky, hard-to-reach areas. This accessory isn’t a luxury – it’s a necessity. Apart from being a smoking accessory, lighters can offer sterilization of wounds, illumination, and use for camping or emergencies. Outside their utility as an EDC accessory, lighters come in all different eye-catching styles that will make your friends jealous.

There are all kinds available that meet a range of criteria, from disposable models to more eco-friendly, refillable options that will last through the years. There are endless options online, but we’re here to help you make the right decision. Read our guide below to explore the best lighters available for purchase online.

1. BIC Classic Lighter

BEST OVERALL

Throughout the decades, BIC has proven itself as a constant presence in the lighter space. The classic Bic lighter has no gimmicks — it’s just a classic, reliable product that’s high quality and comes in a budget-friendly value pack so misplacing it isn’t a problem. These long-lasting lighters can be found in countless pockets and purses all over the world, and you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better lighter for the money.

2. Tesla Coil USB Rechargeable Windproof Arc Lighter

RUNNER UP

USB chargeable coil lighters ensure that you never have to replace a lighter again. The expensive-looking Tesla Coil Lighter requires no flame or butane, making it eco-friendly and windproof compared to traditional models. Just one press of a button and you can light up without a hassle.

3. Zippo Brass Pocket Lighter

BEST ZIPPO PICK

Zippos can stand up to the elements so even if you’re stuck in a wind tunnel or a storm, your cigs or joints will stay lit. This vintage-inspired pick is their brass line, which comes in a range of sophisticated colors and patterns. You might need to refill it, but the Zippo will never go out of style, nor decrease in quality.

4. Bic Multipurpose Lighters (4-Pack)

BEST VALUE

While smokers may prefer Bic’s standard pocket lighters, it’s always a good idea to keep a few multipurpose long-stem lighters around the house. And Bic is our go-to brand for multipurpose lighters, too. This product includes four multipurpose Bic lighters, which are long-lasting and child-proof for added safety.

5. MK Windproof Refillable Candle Lighter

BEST CANDLE LIGHTER

Burning your hand when lighting candles or a pilot light with a traditional lighter isn’t fun. So why not invest in a refillable candle lighter? Reviewers say the flame is strong, and the extended metal wand extender improves accessibility, making it simple to light any hard-to-reach area.

6. Anrapley Torch Lighter with Fuel Level Window

BEST TORCH LIGHTER

Torch lighters are unparalleled in power with their jet flame. This model comes packaged in a stylish aluminum alloy material and has an adjustable flame level, thanks to a twistable adjustment valve at the bottom. There’s even a fuel visibility window that prevents surprises, letting you know when it’s time for a refill.

7. Dual Arc Plasma Electric Lighter

BEST ELECTRIC LIGHTER

This electric lighter has a unique design with 4 built-in LED battery lights that display different levels of charge, so you’re never left with a lifeless lighter. Still, it’ll take a while – one battery cycle lasts up to 600 charges. With a Zippo-style exterior, this is a newer model of electric lighter that makes older versions pale in comparison.

8. WindBlaze Torch Lighter

BEST WINDPROOF PICK

This butane torch lighter is a great choice for cigar smokers, but it’s also a handy tool for anyone that needs a reliable windproof lighter for their keychain. The angular construction on this lighter, along with a tilted nozzle, makes firing up cigars, coals, or whatever you need as easy as possible. The shape is extremely ergonomic, while is helpful for those with carpal tunnel, arthritis, or other hand mobility issues. A nozzle guard safely locks down after each use, so you never harm the device, or burn pockets.

9. TOMOLO Triple Jet Flame Torch Lighter

BEST CIGAR LIGHTER

Lighting up a fine Cuban cigar can’t always be accomplished with a standard Bic. Instead, a more dynamic option is required. When a single torch isn’t enough, go for a triple jet flame like this two-pack by TOMOLO. A transparent fuel tank and serious firepower brought this flame nearly 3,000 stellar reviews.

10. VEXO-Mini4 Torch Lighter

BEST FOR BBQ

If you’re not a smoker or just need a flame for cooking on the BBQ, this windproof butane choice by VEXO will easily meet your needs. With a whopping 4 flames, this petroleum-based accessory can save time without taking up too much space. One reviewer comments, “My wife loves this torch, as soon as she saw it she claimed it as hers.” The best lighters fit comfortably in your hand, and this mini torch lighter is a cinch to operate.

11. DEWEL Vintage Wheel Kerosene Lighter

BEST VINTAGE INSPIRED PICK

When purchasing a vintage-inspired lighter, the function is probably one of the biggest concerns. Sure, it looks cool, but does it work as well as the conventional classics? For this portable, kerosene DEWEL piece, the answer is yes. It even has windproof features and is spring-loaded for consistency every time.

12. Icfun Waterproof Outdoor Electric Lighter

BEST SURVIVALIST PICK

For a lighter that can brave every element, invest in the Icfun waterproof and windproof lighter, which is ideal for hiking, camping, and any other outdoor usage. With a rugged aesthetic, this electric lighter can be charged via USB and doubles as an emergency fire starter. A metal arm that locks the lighter closed is a bonus safety feature.

13. Porsche Design Deister Torch Jet Flame Lighter

BEST LUXURY PICK

For supreme style and minimalism, Porsche Design’s matte black lighter is the definition of luxury. For not much more than $100, this petroleum-based torch jet offers a slim and sleek silhouette with a subtle fuel level gauge on the side. This classy piece is sure to earn compliments.

14. RONXS Upgraded Candle Lighter

MOST FLEXIBLE CANDLE LIGHTER

Candle lighters are handy for their extender wands, but when you can’t reach the exact angle where you need to, it can be frustrating and even a deal-breaker. That’s why RONXS thought it through with this gas-free, rechargeable version that features a flexible neck, letting you curve it to your heart’s desire.

15. Dreamboat Brass Mini Lighter Keychain

BEST MINIATURE LIGHTER

This minuscule lighter attached is to a brass keychain and is the ideal choice if you don’t have any extra space in your pockets. One reviewer says, “this is basically a zippo lighter that Is able to be sealed”. Although it comes with an extra fuel storage container, buyers note that the lighter holds a decent amount of fuel itself.

16. Yusud Cigarette Shaped Soft Flame Butane Lighter

BEST CIGARETTE STYLE LIGHTER

For a light that mimics a stogie and comfortably fits in a cigarette box, consider this metal stick lighter by Yusud, which runs on petroleum. It tucks conveniently into more cig storage cases and has an adjustable flame. The alloy used offers an attractive look, but Amazon reviewers do note that closing the lid after use will prevent fuel wastage.

17. DISSIM Inverted Lighter

BET INVERTED LIGHTER

Light up with this cutting-edge matte lighter by DISSIM that stands out from the crowd. It lets you light it both upright and upside down. Using a candle flame with a low temp, this ergonomically designed piece can be used for everything from tobacco pipes to fireworks.

18. Reusable Clipper Lighters

BEST CLIPPER STYLE

For those who have an issue with the way Bic lighters are lit (some find it uncomfortable for their fingers), the best solution is a clipper lighter, which can start a flame a little more smoothly, according to some. Weed lovers also appreciate clippers for the built-in packing tool on a removable flint arm, making joint-rolling a breeze. Unlike BIC, these can be refilled.

Survive Anything: The Best Emergency Kits for 2021