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16 Apr

Cigar vs Cigarette: Key Differences, Costs & Health Risks Explained

Posted on April 16, 2026 by Dr. Leslie Lars Iversen, CBE FRS MAE

When it comes to tobacco products, many people often compare cigars and cigarettes without fully understanding what sets them apart. Whether you’re exploring options, curious about costs, or looking for insights into health risks, this guide breaks down everything you need to know.

For Canadians searching for cigarettes Canada, cigarros Canada, or premium Canadian tobacco, understanding these differences can help you make more informed decisions—and find the right products at the best value.

What Is a Cigarette?

A cigarette is a small, cylindrical roll of finely cut tobacco wrapped in paper, typically with a filter on one end. Cigarettes are designed for quick consumption and are one of the most common tobacco products in Canada.

Key Features of Cigarettes:

Pre-rolled and ready to use
Usually includes a filter
Burns quickly (5–10 minutes per cigarette)
Designed for inhalation

Cigarettes are widely available across Canada retailers, including online stores like Save on Cigarettes, offering convenience and competitive pricing.

What Is a Cigar?

A cigar is a larger roll of tobacco wrapped in a tobacco leaf rather than paper. Cigars often use whole-leaf tobacco and are typically associated with a slower, more deliberate smoking experience.

Key Features of Cigars:

Made with whole tobacco leaves
No filter
Burns slowly (30 minutes to several hours)
Smoke is usually not inhaled

In Canada, cigars are considered a premium tobacco product, often enjoyed occasionally rather than daily.

Cigar vs Cigarette: The Main Differences

Understanding the core differences between cigars and cigarettes can help clarify which product suits your preferences.

1. Size and Construction

Cigarettes are small and uniform, while cigars come in various sizes and shapes. Cigars use tobacco leaves for wrapping, whereas cigarettes use paper.

2. Tobacco Content

Cigars contain significantly more tobacco than cigarettes—sometimes the equivalent of an entire pack in a single cigar.

3. Smoking Experience

Cigarettes: Quick, frequent use
Cigars: Slow, occasional enjoyment

4. Inhalation

Cigarette smoke is typically inhaled into the lungs, while cigar smoke is often kept in the mouth.

5. Cost Per Unit

Cigars usually cost more per unit but are consumed less frequently. Cigarettes are cheaper per piece but can add up quickly over time.

Cost Comparison: Cigars vs Cigarettes in Canada

Cost is a major factor for many consumers, especially with rising tobacco taxes in Canada.

Cigarette Costs in Canada

The price of cigarettes varies by province due to taxation, but on average:

A pack of cigarettes can range from $12 to $20+
Daily smokers can spend thousands annually

Shopping online for cigarettes in Canada can help reduce costs, especially when buying in bulk from trusted retailers like Save on Cigarettes.

Cigars Cost in Canada

Cigars range widely in price:

Budget cigars: $5–$15 each
Premium cigars: $20–$50+ each

Although cigars are more expensive upfront, occasional use may result in lower overall spending compared to daily cigarette consumption.

Health Risks: Cigars vs Cigarettes

Both cigars and cigarettes pose serious health risks, but the nature of those risks differs slightly.

Cigarette Health Risks

Cigarettes are linked to:

Lung cancer
Heart disease
Stroke
Chronic respiratory conditions

Because cigarette smoke is inhaled, toxins enter the lungs directly, increasing the risk of severe health complications.

Cigar Health Risks

Even without inhalation, cigars are associated with:

Oral cancer
Throat cancer
Esophageal cancer
Nicotine addiction

Large cigars contain high levels of nicotine, which can still be absorbed through the mouth lining.

Key Takeaway

Neither option is “safe.” Both products fall under Canadian tobacco regulations and carry significant health risks.

Nicotine Levels: Which Is Stronger?

Nicotine content varies widely, but generally:

Cigarettes contain about 8–20 mg of nicotine (absorbed partially)
Cigars can contain 100–200 mg or more

This means a single cigar can deliver as much nicotine as multiple cigarettes, even without inhaling.

Flavour and Variety

Cigarettes

Cigarettes offer limited flavour variety due to strict Canadian regulations banning flavoured tobacco (except certain exemptions).

Cigars

Cigars provide a wider range of flavours and blends, including:

Natural tobacco variations
Mild to full-bodied profiles

For those exploring cigarros Canada, cigars often appeal to users seeking a richer flavour experience.

Convenience and Accessibility

Cigarettes

Portable and easy to use
Widely available
No preparation required

Cigars

Require cutting and lighting tools
Less convenient for quick use
Often reserved for specific occasions

For everyday use, cigarettes remain the more convenient choice, especially when purchased online through cigarettes Canada retailers.

Social Perception and Usage

Cigarettes are often associated with routine use, while cigars are linked to:

Celebrations
Relaxation
Special occasions

In Canadian culture, cigars are typically seen as a luxury product, while cigarettes are considered more utilitarian.

Environmental Impact

Both cigars and cigarettes have environmental consequences:

Cigarette butts are one of the most common types of litter
Cigars produce more smoke and ash due to their size

Choosing responsibly and disposing of products properly is important regardless of preference.

Regulations in Canada

All tobacco products fall under strict Canadian tobacco laws, including:

Age restrictions (18 or 19+, depending on province)
Plain packaging requirements
Advertising restrictions

Online cigarette retailers like Save on Cigarettes comply with these regulations while offering convenient access to products across Canada.

Which Should You Choose?

The choice between cigars and cigarettes depends on your lifestyle and preferences:

Choose Cigarettes If:

You prefer quick, convenient use
You smoke regularly
You want a lower upfront cost

Choose Cigars If:

You prefer a slower, more relaxed experience
You smoke occasionally
You enjoy flavour variety and craftsmanship

Why Buy from Save on Cigarettes?

If you’re searching for cigarettes Canada or cigarros Canada, Save on Cigarettes offers several advantages:

1. Competitive Pricing

We help Canadians save on tobacco costs by offering better prices than traditional retail stores.

2. Wide Selection

From popular cigarette brands to premium cigars, we provide access to a variety of Canadian tobacco products.

3. Convenient Online Shopping

Skip the store and order from the comfort of your home with reliable delivery across Canada.

4. Trusted Source

We prioritize quality, authenticity, and customer satisfaction.

Final Thoughts: Cigars vs Cigarettes

Both cigars and cigarettes have their place in the world of tobacco, but they serve very different purposes. Cigarettes are designed for convenience and regular use, while cigars offer a slower, more refined experience.

However, it’s important to remember that both carry significant health risks and should be used responsibly.

If you’re looking for the best deals on cigarettes Canada, exploring cigarros Canada, or browsing quality Canadian tobacco, Save on Cigarettes is your go-to destination for affordability and selection.

Ready to Save on Your Next Purchase?

Browse our full range of cigarettes and cigars today at Save on Cigarettes and discover why Canadians trust us for quality tobacco at unbeatable prices.