This post, originally published in November 2012, has been updated in 2014.
Following the blog post about the best options when selecting cigars as a gift, it’s now time to cover the budget cigars area. Indeed, there are so many cheap cigars out there (think about all those bundles from large distributors) that it’s rather hard to find a sub-$5 stick that fits the bill. Of course, when you buy a sampler or even a box of such cigars, the stakes are not high, but still, we’re always better off with some guidance.
Below is a list of our favorite cigars that cost under $5 if bought by box. Keep in mind that this selection is subjective, so your mileage may vary, as usual. And if you don’t find your favorite budget cigar below, let us know in the comments area!
Arturo Fuente Chateau Fuente
Natural or Maduro (or even Sun-Grown), these cigars from one of the major manufacturers rarely disappoint. Well-built, with a medium body, they can be lit daily.
[review of the natural] [review of the maduro] [compare prices]
CAO La Traviata
The La Traviata is quite a complex cigar, and is definitely worth trying. One of the best price/quality ratios out there.
[review / another review / compare prices]
CAO Osa Sol
Another budget smoke from CAO, the Osa Sol was the first blend released after the acquisition of the brand by General Cigar. Admittedly they did a good job.
[review / compare prices]
EP Carrillo New Wave
Find these on sale and you can easily get them under $5, maybe under $4. EP Carrillo New Wave cigars feature a blend of Nicaraguan and Dominican longfillers housed in an Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper. Great choice for a mild, creamy smoke at a low price.
[review / compare prices]
Alec Bradley American Classic
Connecticut wrappers are rare guests in most lists, but this one definitely should not be missed. Alec Bradley American Classic is the brand’s entry in the budget cigars market, and it’s a success.
[review / compare prices]
Alec Bradley American Sun Grown
For more punch, consider another Alec Bradley’s line, American Sun Grown. With the same filler as American Classic, it uses a Nicaraguan sun-grown habano wrapper which gives it a rich, spicy flavor profile. If you’re a fan of spicy cigars, this is one you won’t want to miss.
[compare prices]
La Aurora 107
Whether you can get these for under $5 will depend on how good a deal you snag, but you should find them close to that price. A suggestion from one of our readers, these cigars feature Nicaraguan and Dominican longfillers in an Ecuadorian wrapper. Flavors are earthy, creamy, woody, and nutty, with a hint of spice and sweetness.
[review / compare prices]
El Rey del Mundo (non-Cuban)
It’s medium to full-bodied and has a nice mix of sweet and woody flavors. This is one of those cigars that range in price a bit, but if you do some hunting, you can get it for under $5 and even under $4.
[review / compare prices]
Gurkha Royal Challenge
What? A Gurkha? It may sound strange, but this Royal Challenge is actually rather good. And at $5, unlike most other offerings that sell for $10+, a sampler of these is affordable.
[review / compare prices]
Brickhouse
Does this cigar really have to be on all lists? Seems like the answer is yes, unless they decide to double the MSRP. Until then, let’s enjoy these fine smokes.
[review / compare prices]
Perdomo Lot 23
These cigars sell for close to $5 or just a few cents more. Expect a medium-bodied smoke with a balance of earthy and creamy flavors. You can purchase these with several different types of wrappers.
[review / compare prices]
Diesel Unlimited Maduro
You can pick up a box of these cheap cigars for around $3.50 per stick. This is another full-bodied smoke, this time with a Broadleaf maduro wrapper. A San Andres binder and a filler blended from Honduran and Nicaraguan tobaccos complete the mix. If you enjoy sweeter flavors, you will love the notes of coffee and cocoa with a hint of spice and leather. The Habano-wrapped version is equally very good!
[compare prices]
Toraño Master Series
Another major manufacturer with a budget smoke. And, again, the results are pretty good. Torano Master Series is a frequent guest in my humidor, thanks to its bold flavor and reliable construction.
[review / compare prices]
Room 101 Big Payback
You can get this Nicaraguan puro easily for $5 or less. Enjoy flavors that are sweet and spicy with a medium to full-bodied profile.
[compare prices]
Padron 2000
Of course, we couldn’t leave this one out. Padron 2000 was one of the best cheap stogies when I started smoking cigars. It stood its ground.
[review / compare prices]
Curivari Buenaventura
The flavors and aromas are delightful, and while it does not throw any major twists or turns, the subtle variations keep things interesting, and the blend is very nice from start to finish. All of this at around $5.
[review / compare prices]
Bucanero Z
Bucanero only distributes its cigars directly through its website, so you have to buy from them directly (no, they did not go out of business; this seems to be a common and incorrect rumor). Bucanero Z cigars are available for under $5 and are very popular. Flavors are toasty and spicy with a sweet finish.
Flor de Oliva
Not a flavor bomb by any means, the Flor de Oliva is a good quality stick at a super price. Can be enjoyed by any smoker, beginner or veteran.
[review / compare prices]
Ambos Mundos Habano
A “value” line from Pete Johnson, the Ambos Mundos Habano is a very solid blend with all the ingredients for a great smoke. A no-brainer at this price point.
[review / compare prices]
Thanks for checking out our updated list of the best cigars under $5! Hopefully you found something new to try. As always, we love your feedback and appreciate your suggestions. Please share your favorite stogies under $5 in the comments below, and we may feature your suggestions in our next updated list!
This post was written by Denis aka Inspector, who founded CigarInspector.com back in 2007. Click here for his latest articles and more information.
