A lighter is a useful tool to have; not only are they a smoker's best friend, but they can also be used for all sorts of things, from lighting candles to starting a campfire.
But while traditional butane lighters have been the most popular type of lighter for decades, they also come with a lot of issues. Electric lighters, meanwhile, are a much better alternative.
Electric lighters are a massive improvement over standard butane lighters. They are better for the environment, much more reliable, and don't suffer from the same issues that a butane lighter does (like a failing flint or dangerous fuel).
But electric lighters are a newer concept that is still emerging, and as a result, finding a good-quality electric lighter can be difficult. Luckily, we're here to help.
In this handy guide, we'll take you through 7 of the best electric lighters on the market. Not only that, but we've also included a buyer's guide to help you choose the right electric lighter for you, as well as an FAQ section to answer any questions you might have.
So without further ado, let's dive right in!
The 7 Best Electric Lighters
OUR TOP PICK
Starting off our list strong is the KUNWFNIX Double Arc Lighter. This sleek and simple lighter looks similar to a Zippo, but its dual-arc beam swaps out the flame for powerful plasma technology that's great for lighting anything from candles to cigarettes.
Wind-proof and fuel-free, this lighter is a great choice for bringing with you when you're out and about.
It's easy to use – just flip up the safety cover, press the ignition button, and you're good to go! Combine its simplicity with a great design and even better value, and the KUNWFNIX Double Arc Lighter is the perfect pick for anyone looking to step away from their outdated butane lighters.
What We Like
Its simple and sleek design makes it perfect for slipping in your pocket and taking it on the go
The double arc beam makes lighting candles, cigarettes, and joints easy
Its safety lid and auto shut-off make it safe to carry around
What Could Be Better
It can be too simple, without much in the way of additional features
Like many electric lighters it makes a high-pitched noise when in use
EDITORS CHOICE
The VVAY Electric Arc Plasma Lighter is an attractive Zippo-style lighter, with a powerful cross-arc that makes lighting things a breeze.
It uses a light sensor to ignite, which removes the need for buttons and makes it easier to use if you have issues with dexterity. Don't worry about it lighting accidentally, however, as it has a safety switch on the bottom to prevent the risk of any accidents.
On top of its sleek, futuristic design (that comes in a selection of attractive colors), this lighter's design is also functional. It has a power indicator that displays how much charge is remaining, and the light sensor is indented for an extra-ergonomic shape.
Pros
- Safety switch at the base prevents any accidental ignitions
- The easy-to-read display shows you how much charge you have left
- Its button-less sensor makes it easy to use
Cons
- The cover doesn't open all the way, which makes lighting certain things difficult
- Its battery life could be a lot longer to extend the time between charges
BEST VALUE
Looking for an easier way to light candles, stoves, and grills? Then this is the lighter for you!
The VEHHE Candle Lighter definitely lives up to its name, featuring a long and flexible neck that is great for reaching tricky spaces while keeping your hand as safe as possible. The stainless steel neck can move in a full 360 degrees, and is able to keep its flexed shape to reach inside candle jars and BBQs.
The VEHHE Candle Lighter's neck isn't the only safety feature it has. It also includes a safety switch to prevent accidental ignition, leakage and current protection, and it automatically switches itself off after 10 seconds of use to stop the lighter from overheating.
Add in an LED display to show your remaining charge, and an included charging cable, and what more could you ask for?
Pros
- Multiple safety mechanisms like a safety switch and automatic timer makes it easy and safe to use
- Its flexible neck offers 360-degree rotation for hard-to-reach spaces
- It is 10" in length, keeping your hands far away from the spark
Cons
- This lighter takes up more room than others, and isn't convenient for on-the-go use
- It takes longer to charge than other electric lighters on this list
RUNNER UP
The BBQ Dragon Rechargeable Arc Lighter is similar to the VEHHE, but with a few things that set the two apart. It's a little smaller, only measuring 9" in total, which makes it easier to store or carry around with you.
Its wind- and splash-proof design makes it easy to use, even in bad weather, and the flexible neck is able to turn and flex to reach difficult angles.
It charges quickly, taking just an hour and a half, and you can get over 600 lights from a single charge! And unlike other electric lighters, which tend to make a high-pitched noise when ignited, the BBQ Dragon is whisper-quiet for a much less intrusive experience.
Pros
- The flexible neck can twist in any direction for maximum functionality
- The safety switch keeps it safe from children
- It is completely quiet, without the irritating noise that other electric lighters make
Cons
- The neck isn't retractable which means it takes up more space
- Its forked head design makes it harder to light larger things
RUNNER UP
If you want something simple yet effective, then this pocket lighter from The USB Lighter Company has got you covered! They come in a range of attractive colors, with a simple design that does its job and does it well.
While it may not have the flash and extra functions of other electric lighters, the easy-to-use design and powerful double arc makes it incredibly effective (especially for its price).
Small and compact, this is the definition of a 'pocket lighter' and slips into any shirt or trouser pocket discreetly. You can take it with you on the go, or store it easily at home when you're not using it.
It's compact, lightweight, and has the power of a much larger electric lighter – if you're looking for something simple, this lighter is the pick for you.
Pros
- It is small and convenient, and you can take it anywhere
- The lighter can be used 300 times between charges, which only takes around 1.5 hours to charge to full
- It comes in a selection of attractive colors that all look great
Cons
- The small size can make it tricky to hold in large hands, and it can't be used for things like lighting a grill
- There isn't much in the way of safety measures apart from a cover
RUNNER UP
The Extremus Waterproof Electric Lighter is an absolute beast. Designed for use in tough conditions, such as during camping or hikes, this lighter has everything you could ask for. Its durable and rugged design makes it both wind-proof and waterproof; in fact, it can be submerged in up to 3 feet of water for half an hour!
Despite its chunkier size, this lighter is incredibly lightweight, making it perfect for adding to your camping kit without being a hindrance.
What sets the Extremus Waterproof apart from other electric lighters (other than its durable design) is the amount of extra features it comes with. Because it was made for use in the great outdoors, it comes with a strong paracord lanyard as well as a whistle for emergencies.
On top of that, you can also choose to have a multi-tool carabiner included as well for just a few dollars extra, complete with a can opener, screwdrivers, and wrenches (among other things).
Not interested in the extra features? Then you'll still be able to make great use of this lighter's powerful cross arc beams to light anything from campfires to candles!
Pros
- A durable casing and powerful dual-arc pulse makes it perfect for tougher conditions such as camping
- Along with the lighter itself, it comes with a paracord lanyard and carabiner among other great additions
- Despite its chunky, ergonomic design, this lighter is very lightweight and won't add to the bulk of a camping bag
Cons
- It is larger than other models, which makes it less convenient for day-to-day use
- Having the power switch near to the arc points makes it a bit cumbersome to use
RUNNER UP
While it may not have the flexible neck of the BBQ Dragon or the VEHHE, don't think that the Suprus Extendable Lighter is a slouch when it comes to functionality and effectiveness.
This 7" long electric lighter is more than a match for the others on this list, with a wind- and splash-proof design and a powerful plasma arc.
It is extremely lightweight and easy to store and transport. It also comes with plenty of safety features to keep you safe, including a safety lock, automatic shut-off, and an extendable head that can be retracted to avoid any accidental contact.
Not only that, but the casing has several small LEDs that tell you how much charge is left as well as how long there it will take to charge.
Pros
- Its treble-safety design uses safety locks, automatic timers, and a retractable head for maximum safety
- The sleek and lightweight design makes it the perfect addition to camping kits and your kitchen drawers
- Lights on the casing tell you when it is fully charged
Cons
- While the head is retractable for safety reasons, it isn't flexible, leaving the lighter rigid
- It isn't compatible with fast chargers plugs
Buyer's Guide
Now that you've taken a look at some of the best electric lighters out there, it's time for you to pick the one you want!
Don't worry if you're feeling a bit overwhelmed – that's why we've put together this buyer's guide to help you make the right choice for you. Here we'll take you through some things you need to consider when picking out your electric lighter.
Purpose
One of the main things to think about when making your choice is what you intend to use your electric lighter for. While most of these models are fairly multipurpose, some electric lighters are better at serving a specific purpose than others.
Lighters like the VEHHE Candle Lighter or the Suprus Extendable are great for things like lighting candles, BBQs, and stoves. Meanwhile, the VVAY Arc Plasma Lighter and the KUNWFNIX Double Arc are better-suited for smoking purposes.
If you're looking for a camping companion, then the Extremus Waterproof Electric Lighter has all the multi-functionality you could ask for.
Portability
This may be similar to considering the purpose of the lighter, but it's also important to think about how you'll be carrying it around. If you're only using your lighter around the house (e.g. for candles, stoves, or something similar) then you don't need to worry about a compact and easy-to-carry design.
However, if you want to bring the lighter out and about for smoking on the go, then you'll want a more portable lighter that you can slip in your pocket.
The KUNWFNIX Double Arc or the Extremus Waterproof lighter are great choices when it comes to portability, while other lighters like the BBQ Dragon and the Suprus Extendable lighter are more at home, well, in the home.
Safety Features
Like with any lighter, you want to make sure that it is safe to use. Not only that, but it's important for the lighter to be harmless if it falls into the wrong hands, for instance, if you have young children.
Most electric lighters have some form of safety mechanism, whether they automatically switch off after a few seconds, or won't switch on at all without a safety switch being flicked.
The VVAY Arc Plasma Lighter, for example, has a safety switch on the bottom to avoid accidental ignition, while the VEHHE Candle Lighter both cuts its arc off after 10 seconds and switches off automatically when not in use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Makes Electric Lighters Better Than Fueled Ones?
There are plenty of things that make electric lighters a great alternative to traditional butane ones. Because they don't rely on fuel, electric lighters are much more convenient to use – simply charge them up when their batteries get low, and you're good to go.
This also makes them better for the environment due to reduced emissions, and you don't need to replace them when they run out (unlike disposable lighters).
Electric lighters are also easier to use. While fueled lighters struggle to perform in the wind and rain (even so-called 'windproof' lighters like Zippos or jet lighters), electric lighters function perfectly even in the toughest conditions. All you have to do is press the button, and you're able to light whatever you want.
Can Electric Lighters Light A Cigar?
Electric lighters can light smaller things such as candles, cigarettes, and joints with no hassle at all, but how do they hold up for larger, trickier things such as cigars or blunts?
While you can use an electric lighter to spark these up in theory, the reduced size of the arc compared to a flame (coupled with the need to make direct contact with the arc) means that it's hard to get an even burn. As a result, when it comes to lighting a cigar, you might be better off with a traditional lighter.
With that said, you can get specialized electric lighters that are specifically intended for use with cigars.
Unlike the lighters on this list that have a smaller arc, electric cigar lighters have a hollow tube-like opening to insert your cigar into that will light it perfectly every time. If you're exclusively looking to use your lighter for cigars, then these may be the choice for you.
What Happens If You Touch An Electric Lighter?
Touching the flame of a regular lighter is painful (who knew?), so you might be wondering what happens if you touch the arc of an electric lighter.
Because the electricity is able to ignite things, it makes sense that touching it would be just as harmful (if not more so) than touching a flame. However, this isn't the case, and touching an electric lighter arc isn't as bad as touching a flame.
It will still hurt, don't get us wrong, and it definitely isn't something we'd recommend. Touching the arc of an electric lighter will give you a sharp shock, like a stronger version of a static shock.
It won't be enough to cause any serious or lasting damage, and the most harm you'll come to is the initial shock and a sore red mark that will fade in a few days.
Don't worry about the lighter going off in your pocket – most electric lighters have a built-in mechanism that will prevent the lighter from sparking unless you hold the button down with the cover open.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – 7 of the best electric lighters on the market! All of these lighters are a great choice if you're looking to move away from outdated butane lighters, and with so many options to choose from you're guaranteed to find something you love.
Whether you want an eco-friendly way to light your candles or want a more reliable way to smoke on the go, there's an electric lighter to suit anyone's needs.
Now that you've seen the options out there, all that's left for you to do is make your choice. So say goodbye to your old butane lighters, and hello to the great world of electric lighters!
If you enjoyed this article, then you might like to read our post on the 'Best One Hitters'.
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