Cigar Shopping Guide: Cigar Box Prices and More

When it comes to cigar shopping, one of the most common questions beginners ask is: how much does a box of cigars cost? The answer can vary widely based on several factors, including the brand, quality, size, and where the cigars are purchased. To give you a general idea, cigar box prices typically range from $50 to several hundred dollars. However, understanding the nuances of what affects these prices can help you make an informed decision.

A premium cigar doesn't always have to come with a hefty price tag. While higher-end brands often carry prestige and refined craftsmanship, there are many affordable options that offer an enjoyable smoking experience. Factors such as the type of tobacco used, the origin of the cigar, and the aging process can all influence the cost. Additionally, some brands are priced higher due to their exclusivity or limited production runs.

When shopping for cigars, it’s important to focus not just on price but also on quality, flavor profile, and personal preferences. Don't be afraid to try different cigars in various price ranges to find what suits your palate best. Keep in mind that some lesser-known brands can offer excellent cigars at a lower cost, so don’t be swayed solely by price. By understanding these elements, you'll be better equipped to navigate cigar shopping with confidence.

Some cigars boxes are cedarwood. Cedar is excellent for storing cigars and also costs a pretty penny, but other boxes use cheap wood like beech or oak wood. These boxes are attractive but do not keep your cigars fresh and plump.

How Many Cigars Come in a Box?

Cigar boxes typically have between 10 and 50 cigars, with a common average being 25 cigars. Boxes can come with as little as two or five cigars. These smaller boxes are usually more expensive because the cigars are rare and made with quality ingredients.

Average Cost of a Single Cigar

The average price of a single cigar is usually between $20 and $40. Depending on the rarity and quality, a single cigar can cost up to hundreds of dollars, or it can be just a few bucks.

Cigars have a wide range of prices, so you can pay whatever price you want. But you usually get what you pay for, so keep that in mind when shopping for smokes.

What Are Cigar Bundles?

Cigar bundles are a bunch of cigars that come packaged in cellophane. So there is no actual box, but instead, they come in a plastic bag. This packaging method is less fancy and attentive than the cigars neatly lined up in pretty boxes.

For a long time, the cigar community looked down on bundles. They are cheaper and less aesthetically pleasing. People believed cigars in bundles were of lower quality and not properly stored for optimal freshness and flavor.

But this is a myth, as more cigar companies now take advantage of the economic benefits of selling bundles. Bundles also come with between 10 and 50 cigars, and the amount is more flexible since they don’t ship in rigid, specifically-sized boxes.

Bundles Vs. Boxes

The main differences between boxes and bundles are the price and the packaging. Many cigar-lovers get an exciting tingly feeling when an aesthetically pleasing cigar box arrives in the mail. But people that want to save money and don’t care about the box often order bundles because they are less expensive.

Bundle and box cigars can be of the same quality, so it depends on what box or bundle you select. Bundles are less expensive, but the cigars are not necessarily of lower quality. The cellophane packaging is far cheaper than a wooden box, so the cigar companies can save a lot of money on the shipping method, which saves you money!

Cigar Shopping Advice

To help you know what to look for and what aspects to consider when shopping for cigars, keep this buying advice in mind.

Cigar Quality

Every cigar smoker wants good quality smoke to enjoy. Why would anyone want a bad-quality cigar? But it’s important to remember that a higher price does not mean higher quality. Consider if the cigars in the $100 box will make you as happy and satisfied as the cigars in the $600 box.

If you are not a cigar connoisseur and feel you won’t pick up on super subtle quality differences, it’s okay to start with the lower or medium-priced cigars. It’s super important to remember that high prices do not equal better cigars.

Number of Cigars

Consider how many cigars you want to order or buy at once. If you do not have a cigar humidor, that will keep your cigars properly stored, consider buying less. Also, factor in how often you smoke or share cigars with others, as this will play into how many cigars you should buy.

Flavor Preference

If you don’t like the flavor of vanilla, then don’t buy cigars with vanilla notes. This advice may sound intuitive, but some people don’t realize that cigar flavors can be potent, and if you don’t like the flavor, you won’t enjoy the cigar at all.

Shape Preference

There is no wrong shape of a cigar to buy. But the cigar shape can make a significant difference in the smoking experience. Straight cigars, called Parejos, have a more consistent smoke, while Figurados have a smoother smoking experience. The best way to decide which shape you like is to try different shapes and sizes.

Manufacturer Reputation

If you are unsure where to start when cigar shopping, try to buy cigars from trusted manufacturers with excellent reputations. Do some research online, ask cigar-loving friends, or check out our FAQ section for some recommendations.

The Overall Experience

If cigars are a true passion and you want to have a memorable, enjoyable, and special smoking experience, you should order a box instead of a bundle. Bundles are wonderful, but they lack a certain je ne sais quoi that comes with a box of cigars. It’s okay if the box is important to you, but it’s also okay if you don’t care about the box.

Conclusion

In summary, we want to urge you to base your cigar purchases on more than just the price. You can get a high-quality cigar box for $75, but you can also get a low-quality box for $300. It’s important to weigh your options and consider your preferences when shopping.

Finding your perfect cigar may take some trial and error, but once you find the right one, you’ll have that ideal smoking experience every time.

FAQs

For more information on cigar boxes and cigar quality, read these commonly asked questions below!

How can I tell if cigars are of good quality?

The best quality cigars will have a slight sheen on the outside. When you hold the cigar in your hand, it should feel smooth, soft, and firm. None of the tobacco inside the leaf is loose or uneven. All wrapper leaves should spiral in the same direction, and there should be no rough or dry spots. The wrapper should look the same all around.

Another way you can tell a cigar will be enjoyable is how distinct the smell is. This doesn’t mean that the stronger the smell, the better the cigar. If you can smell specific flavor notes, those flavors are likely to be bold and excellent.

And don’t be afraid to ask your tobacconist about a particular cigar or opinion on a box or bundle. They are usually helpful and knowledgeable and one of the best resources for people new to cigars.

What are the best cigar brands?

People like different cigar brands for various reasons, but some brands are considered top tier that all cigar-lovers should try at least once. The top brands include Arturo Fuente, Davidoff, Cohiba, Padron, Macanudo Cafe, Perdomo Champagne, and La Gloria Cubana, to name a few.

What are samplers?

Samplers are so fun! They can be boxes or bundles and will feature different cigars for you to try. Samplers are ideal for people that enjoy trying different flavors, shapes, and sizes. If you are just getting into cigars or feel like you’ve never had a cigar you loved, get a sampler and experiment with different kinds!

Are bigger cigars better?

No, not necessarily. Large cigars will usually have a longer burn time and large puffs, but the size shouldn’t affect the flavor or quality too much. If you love to enjoy a cigar for an hour or more, larger cigars are conducive to your smoking preferences.

On the other hand, if you don’t enjoy puffing on a cigar for a super long time, opt for a smaller cigar that will suit your preferences.