Vaping vs Smoking Cigars: Making the Right Choice

The ongoing discussion between cigars and vapes has been increasingly prominent among users in recent times. Advocates of vapes highlight their convenience and potential as aids for quitting smoking. On the other hand, supporters of cigars emphasize the cultural and traditional aspects they embody.

Deciding between the two can be challenging, especially for newcomers to smoking or those seeking alternatives to cigarettes. Each option comes with distinct advantages and disadvantages.

To make an informed choice, it’s essential to understand more about both vapes and cigars. This knowledge will assist you in selecting the option that best suits your preferences and needs.

How Do Vapes and Cigars Differ?

Vapes and cigars are designed with different components that influence their functionality.

A vape, also known as an electronic cigarette or e-cigarette, delivers an aerosol containing nicotine, flavorings, and various chemicals to the user. Vapes consist of two main parts: the cartridge and the coils. The cartridge holds the e-liquid, or vape juice, which is transformed into aerosol by the coils or atomizer. Typically, the device is activated by inhaling, causing the coils to heat the e-liquid and produce vapor.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that vapes can be either disposable or rechargeable. Disposable vapes, such as the Krush 5000 Puff Disposable Vape, are discarded once the e-liquid is depleted. In contrast, rechargeable vapes can be recharged and refilled numerous times until they are no longer functional.

Cigars, in contrast, are cylindrical rolls of tobacco wrapped in tobacco leaves. The wrapper leaf must be durable and flexible to keep the cigar intact and should have a pleasant flavor and good burning properties for an enjoyable smoking experience.

Modern cigars vary in length from 3.5 to 6.5 inches. They come in different shapes, including straight with a rounded top, torpedo-shaped with a tapered lighting end, or thin and open at both ends.

Which is More Expensive: Vapes or Cigars?

Using vapes and cigars regularly can become quite expensive.

Rechargeable vapes, like the STLTH Type C Vape Battery Device, typically endure about 300 charging cycles over their lifespan. However, frequent charging may lead to replacing the device every few months, costing around $15 or more. It’s crucial to dispose of vapes properly to avoid environmental damage.

The coils in rechargeable vapes, which cost between $2 to $5 each, need replacing every 1-2 weeks. Additionally, vape juices, averaging $20 per 30 ml bottle, must be replaced once or twice a week to maintain flavor and avoid dry hits.

Disposable vapes, priced at $10 or more, can further increase your expenses since they cannot be refilled.

Similarly, the cost of smoking cigars depends on your consumption frequency. Unlike vapes, cigars don’t require devices or e-liquids, just the cigars themselves, a cutter, and a lighter.

In Canada, a pack of cigars ranges from $15 to $110, with premium brands like duMont Grape-Flavoured Cigars costing more. Purchasing multiple packs of premium cigars annually can exceed the cost of vaping.

While a cigar cutter and lighter are relatively inexpensive, opting for high-quality brands can still add to your overall expenses over time.

Nicotine Levels: Cigars vs. Vapes

Nicotine, commonly found in electronic cigarettes and cigars, stimulates the brain to release dopamine, a hormone that creates a sense of pleasure and relaxation. This effect is short-lived, prompting users to smoke more to maintain the feeling, ultimately leading to nicotine addiction.

Cigars typically contain between 25 and 600 mg of nicotine, significantly more than the up to 50 mg/ml found in vapes.

Nicotine from cigars is absorbed more slowly compared to e-cigarettes. Cigar smokers often puff and hold the smoke in their mouths, resulting in slower nicotine absorption but a longer-lasting effect.

In contrast, vaping provides a quicker nicotine hit, albeit with lower nicotine content. This makes vaping a popular choice for those trying to quit smoking and for young adults who perceive it as less harmful and risky to their health.

Which is Simpler to Smoke: Cigars or Vapes?

Many people prefer vaping over smoking cigars because vaping is simpler and more convenient.

To enjoy a cigar, you first need to properly cut the cap. It’s important not to cut too far down the cap or the end where you smoke to avoid damaging the wrapper leaf. Then, you need to light the other end of the cigar by holding it near the lighter’s flame and rotating it slowly to achieve the best flavor.

Once the cigar is lit, you should puff it gently before taking your first draw to eliminate any bitter taste. After that, draw the smoke into your mouth, let it linger for a few seconds to appreciate the taste and aroma, and then slowly exhale. For a rich smoking experience, consider Cognac Backwoods Cigars, which blend natural tobacco flavors with a hint of cognac.

In contrast, vaping is much more straightforward.

The preparation time for vaping is minimal. As long as your device is charged and filled with e-liquid, it’s ready to use.

When vaping, draw the vapor into your mouth and hold it for a few seconds. Then, open your mouth and inhale the vapor into your lungs, making sure not to swallow it. Exhale the vapor. This entire process is quicker and easier compared to smoking a cigar.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Vapes Better Than Cigars? 

Vapes, which come pre-filled with juice and a charged battery, are often considered more convenient than cigars because they are ready for immediate use. They are also portable and user-friendly. Additionally, e-cigarettes offer a variety of vape types, juice flavors, and price points, making them appealing to both young adults and seasoned smokers.

Is It Better to Smoke Cigars or Vape? 

Vaping is generally regarded as less harmful than smoking cigars because it avoids the carcinogenic compounds and harmful tar produced by tobacco smoke. Vaping also allows users to control flavors and nicotine levels more precisely. However, both activities carry significant health risks, including lung cancer, coronary artery disease, and respiratory issues.

Can You Use a Vape Like a Cigar? 

Yes, you can use a vape similarly to a cigar by practicing mouth-to-lung (MTL) vaping. This involves drawing vapor into your mouth, enjoying the flavor, and then exhaling without inhaling the vapor into your lungs. Using a vape with higher resistance coils and a tighter draw, along with tobacco-flavored e-juice, can replicate the cigar-smoking experience.

Is It Easier to Find Cigars or Vapes in Canada? 

In Canada, vapes are more readily available than cigars. You can purchase electronic cigarettes, e-liquids, and accessories at convenience stores, vape shops, gas stations, and online retailers. In contrast, cigars are typically only sold in specialized cigar shops and select high-end liquor stores, making them less accessible.

Overview

Vapes and cigarettes appeal to different demographics and cater to specific groups of smokers.

For those who prioritize convenience in their daily routines, vapes are the preferred choice. They are easy to charge, set up, and use, requiring minimal effort. Additionally, vapes are more cost-effective to maintain and readily available for purchase. If you’re considering alternatives to vaping, check out our comparison between vapes and nicotine pouches.

On the other hand, cigars attract individuals who appreciate luxury and sophistication. The traditional process of preparing, lighting, and smoking cigars makes them ideal for special occasions such as birthdays, weddings, and holidays.