Finding the right cigarette isn't just about grabbing the first pack you see. It's about matching strength, flavor, and even how it burns. Here's how to narrow it down.
Start with Strength
If you're new to smoking or prefer a milder hit, lights or ultra-lights are the way to go. Brands like Marlboro Gold or Camel Blue keep the nicotine lower without sacrificing taste. Once you're used to it, regulars like Marlboro Reds or Camel Filters offer a stronger kick and deeper tobacco flavor. There's no shortcut—you'll need to try a few to see what sticks.
Menthol or Non-Menthol?
Menthols (Newport, Marlboro Smooth) cool the throat with a minty edge, which some find smoother. But if you hate mint in general, skip these—they don't hide the tobacco taste, just twist it. Traditional smokers often stick with non-menthols, calling menthols "too medicinal."
Flavored Options
Clove cigarettes (like Djarum) bring a spicy, almost sweet profile, but they burn hotter and can leave you lightheaded. Other flavored cigs—vanilla, cherry, etc.—are harder to find in the U.S. now but pop up in specialty shops. These are hit-or-miss; some taste artificial, while others blend well with the tobacco.
Construction Matters
How a cigarette burns affects the experience. Most benefit from packing—tapping the pack filter-side down to tighten the tobacco. But brands like American Spirit roll their tobacco dense already; packing those makes the draw too tight. Roll it between your fingers instead to loosen it up.
Lighting Right
A cheap lighter works, but a Zippo's fluid adds a faint metallic note to the first few puffs—some love it, others hate it. When lighting, rotate the cigarette to avoid uneven burns. If the cherry glows lopsided, you'll get a harsher smoke.