13 Best BBQ Lighters To Buy In 2024
In This Article
Having a BBQ at a gathering can be one of the most fun-filled moments in life. Sometimes, lighting a fire can be time-consuming, especially when using matches or pocket lighters. Thus, you will need the best BBQ lighters to make your BBQ time worth it. When you start a fire in a BBQ, you will need these specialized lighters. These are known as charcoal starters and are safe for indoor and outdoor use. Whether you go camping or hiking and plan to use a BBQ, this lighter will come in handy. Read on as we list some rechargeable and refillable lighters as well as other options for you to choose from.
Note: Since lighters are involved with fire, we recommend using them cautiously. You may also find lighters with child-resistant locks or childproof safety features, but it is still advisable to keep them out of children’s reach.
Top Picks
13 Best BBQ Lighters To Buy
1. Best For Gifting: Bic Multipurpose Lighters
Quit using a matchstick for all your lighting purposes when this high-performance BBQ lighter with built-in hook for hanging. It can flick-start anything from candles and stoves to coal for grilling! Hailed as one of America’s most reliable and safe lighters, this kitchen-staple lighter is an excellent choice, be it for kitchen or outdoor purposes. Also, these multipurpose BBQ lighters make a great option for gifting too.
Pros
- Quality- and safety-tested
- Long and robust wand structure
- Prevents burns or heat shocks
- Long-lasting flame
- Child-resistant BBQ lighter
- High-quality construction
- Space-efficient
- A convenient retractable hook for hanging
- Ideal lighter for grilling, candles, and stoves
Cons
- Trigger may be hard to push
- Flame is not adjustable
"This lighter effectively lights a range of candles in one go with their simple, one-handed operation. I have been using it for the past few months, and I'm quite impressed with its durability and design for everyday use."
2. Best Multipurpose: Zippo Flex Neck Utility Lighter
Looking for the best refillable lighter? The Zippo Flex neck utility lighter is one of the best refillable BBQ lighters you can try! Given the flexible neck structure, it is convenient to use, and the multipurpose option is suitable for lighting instant bonfires, water heater pilots, lanterns, and BBQ grills. Also, it is a butane refillable barbeque lighter, which makes it handy for all your outdoor activities.
Pros
- Wind-resistant dual-flame technology
- Comes with an adjustable flame dial to control the flame
- Sturdy metal construction
- Flexible neck BBQ lighter for convenient use
- Features a built-in child-resistant safety button
- Oversized loop for hanging
- Available in three colors
Cons
- Has no provision to see the fuel reading or fuel left
- Need to hold the ignition button for a couple of seconds
"Considering its impressive resilience against the wind, I prefer using this refillable lighter for our patio gatherings or BBQ parties. It is quite user-friendly with a flexible neck. Also, it has a child-safe feature, making it a better choice for us as I always have my kids around."
3. Best For Camping: Ronxs Candle Lighter
Light up all your best moments with this electric USB arc lighter. With no hassle of butane or flame, its rechargeable feature makes it an essential tool to have in your barbeque and camping kit. Providing up to 500 uses on a full charge, you no longer have to waste time lighting up the camp or barbeque fire again. Environmentally-friendly, safety-tested, and with convenient rechargeability features and ease of use, the Ronxs Candle Lighter ticks the right boxes.
Pros
- Wind-resistant and splash-proof
- Ideal for lighting fire during bad weather
- 5 clear LED lights (or battery bars) for real-time usability
- Five clear LED lights (or battery bars to show battery level) for real-time usability
- Has a safety switch design
- A flexible neck design for convenient use
- USB candle lighter is less noisy
- Recyclable
- Provides powerful ignition on a full charge
- Has a USB charging cable
- Certified-safe battery
Cons
- The battery may get exhausted quickly
- Positioning it properly might seem challenging
"This USB-rechargeable lighter is my favorite, especially for its flexible tip that lets me reach even the trickier spots hassle-free. We love its impressive battery life, practicality, and user-friendly design. All in all, it's a safer and more sustainable alternative to the traditional options."
Bic Multipurpose Lighters Best For Gifting | Zippo Flex Neck Utility Lighter Best Multipurpose | RONXS Candle Lighter Best For Camping | |
---|---|---|---|
Dimensions | 13.5"L x 1"W x 11"Th | 1.2"L x 0.8"W x 11.8"Th | 9.8"L x 0.6"W x 0.5"Th |
Weight | 1 Pounds | 0.3 Pounds | 63 Grams |
Material | Metal | Metal | Metal |
Color | Multicolored | Black | Black |
Rating | |||
Reviews | 18,805 | 2,926 | 12,335 |
Price | $16.15 | $16.99 | $13.99 |
4. Best Flexible: Fukkuda Gooseneck Electric Lighter
The Fukkuda rechargeable electric BBQ lighter is a new-gen model with a goose-like flexible neck that allows it to rotate 360 degrees, making it ideal for lighting angled burners. This lighter employs the innovative plasma flameless arc technology, making it functional and an excellent choice for all weather conditions. Moreover, this weather-resistant BBQ lighter can be used to ignite BBQ wires, candles, and more and is completely electricity-based, making it convenient to use.
Pros
- Smoke-free, odorless, and windproof
- Features a battery indicator
- No flame and no scalding mechanism
- Can be charged through multiple sources
Cons
- May make a peculiar sound
- Body may not be highly durable
"This flexible electric lighter has become my favorite for easy candle and incense lighting. The high-pitched noise is slightly annoying, but overall, it's a practical choice. Also, the long battery life is a big plus!"
5. Best Glow-In-The-Dark: Suprus Fluorescent Electric Candle Lighter
The Suprus glow-in-the-dark USB lighter has a splash-proof and windproof design that makes it ideal for outdoor purposes, apart from the conventional uses of lighting up candles and stoves. Adding to its uniqueness is its luminous body that allows it to be visible even in the dark, making it convenient to use at night and during power cuts. Moreover, this upgraded model features a real-time battery indicator to facilitate timely recharges, and its seven-second auto-off feature adds to its safety quotient.
Pros
- CE, RoHS, UL-certified
- Safety lock-enabled
- In-built protection against overheating and overcharging
- Butane-free
Cons
- Battery may not last long
- A few may find it smaller than expected
"I found this lighter useful for lighting my candles, especially deep-set wicks. It stands up to wind and rain every time we have a backyard gathering, while its battery life survives for days without charging. It's been a worthwhile purchase."
6. Best Wind-Resistant: BoonFire Butane Torch Lighter
With a reliable and tried-and-tested design, BoonFire’s butane torch lighter is a must-have for use both indoors and outdoors. This butane BBQ lighter has a long 10.1-inch head and can turn 360 degrees, reaching even the toughest spots for lighting up your candles, grills, BBQs, gas stoves, etc. Never run out of fuel, as you have a see-through window to gauge the level of butane. The flame regulator valve in the bottom puts you in control, allowing you to adjust the flame, while its push button steadies the fire.
Pros
- Made of heat-resistant materials
- Includes a safety lock
- Wind-resistant
- Easy to refill
- Non-slip, ergonomic grip BBQ lighter
- Ultra power torch jet for better output
Cons
- May leak butane from a few parts
- Lighter neck may not be durable
"I love its jet-style flame, which is also adjustable for versatile use. It offers a better grip than my previous disposable ones. While a lack of child safety features is a letdown, its practicality, especially for outdoor activities, is commendable."
7. Best Refillable: Handi Flame Gas Lighters
Whether you are a frequent camper or not, a gas lighter is a must-have kitchen essential tool in every household. From catering to all lighting needs, it is ideally used for grilling, lighting birthday candles, lanterns, fire pits, gas stoves, and more. Multipurpose and handy when it comes to barbeque parties or cooking meals while camping, the Handi Flame Gas Lighter is safe, reliable, and easy to use.
Pros
- Refillable fuel and butane lighter
- Long and durable metal wand for safety
- The flame height is adjustable
- Quick, portable, and easy to use
- Easy to refill
- Has a visible fuel supply window
Cons
- Has no child safety lock
- May run out of fuel quickly
"These lighters add great value to my everyday household tasks. They come pre-filled, which saves me time. I wish they had a child-safe feature so I didn't have to worry about using them around my kids. Still, I would recommend these for their easy-to-use design."
8. Best Odorless: Leejie Electric Arc Lighter
Adding spark to your special occasions with a sleek structure and advanced technology is Leejie Electric Arc Lighter! Designed to deliver impressive sparks without using fuel and exuding flame or odor, this environment-friendly grill lighter is one of the best choices for birthday or barbeque parties. With triple-safe and protection features, this flameless BBQ lighter is also convenient to use in the dark as the LED light indicates the power button.
Pros
- Child-proof with built-in safety lock
- Slip-on ignition tip and seven-second auto-stop feature
- Rechargeable lighter
- High-quality lithium-ion cell battery
- Flameless arc beam technology
- Wind-proof, splash-proof, and moisture-proof
- Portable and travel-friendly lighter
- Easy to use indoors and outdoors
- Convenient USB charging port
- Compatible with power banks, laptops, etc
- Ideal for lighting candles, charcoal grills, lanterns, fire pits, campfires and more
Cons
- May be a bit noisy
- Has no adjustable control for flame
"As someone who frequently lights candles for home decor, I find this lighter an efficient option for its flameless design and long battery life. Its ease of use for daily convenience is worth applauding. Till now, it's been a worthy choice for me."
9. Best User-Friendly: King Multi Utility Lighter
Looking for a housewarming gift or a gift for someone who enjoys cooking outdoors? King Multi Utility Lighter is not only designed for indoor and kitchen needs but for camping, hiking, and all outdoor events too. Given how matchsticks could take ages to light up a bonfire or barbeque grill, this instant ignition BBQ lighter will do the job instantly.
Pros
- Flick-start lighter with a user-friendly design
- Long, durable, and heat-resistant wand
- Visible fuel level BBQ lighter
- Flame height is adjustable
- Works well as a coal starter
Cons
- May not be refillable
"These lighters have been a practical addition to our everyday household tasks. It is simple and easy to use, particularly with the fuel-level window. The only drawback is it's not exactly child-safe, so practicing caution is recommended."
10. Best Rechargeable: Reidea Electronic Candle Lighter
Safety first, that’s what Reidea electronic candle lighter is all about. With every feature designed to deliver protection, this powerful LED light BBQ lighter can fire up anything from candles and coal to woods with its sharp and quick-flick sparks, making it one of the most reliable choices for all your needs. Truly a game-changer when it comes to its construction and advanced rechargeable features, it is one of the best bbq lighters to spill your dollar on.
Pros
- Made of zinc-alloy with a non-slip switch
- One-time full charge provides 60 uses
- Can be recharged up to 300 times
- LED light indicates whether this lighter is on or off
- Wind-proof and environmentally-friendly
- Flameless arc beam with powerful ignition and safety lock
- Quick Heat Sinking Technology prevents overheating
- Rechargeable USB port compatible with most devices
Cons
- May create noise when used
- Button placement may seem awkward
"I chose this electric lighter specifically for its auto-off feature, making it safe to light candles without leaving any burns on the candle glass. Its reusable system is also a bonus for me. Plus, it's windproof, which makes it pretty easy to use."
11. Best Sturdy: Zoocura Refillable Butane Torch Lighter
This refillable butane torch lighter by Zoocura sprays a powerful double flame that can reach up to temperature 2100F / 1150C! Though it is a pocket-sized BBQ lighter and features a portable design, the construction is sturdy, made of durable zinc alloy, and processed through 20 quality inspections, thus guaranteeing long-term use. This heavy-duty BBQ lighter is a must-have for all households.
Pros
- Refillable light has a 1.8g gas capacity
- Visible fuel (butane) window to monitor the remaining gas balance
- Heavy-duty construction with easy-to-refill feature
- Anti-leakage with three layers of safety and protection
- Ideal for lighting gas stoves, candles, grills, etc
- Easy adjustment of flame height and size
Cons
- May hardly produce flame on low setting
- High fuel consumption
"After trying out several torches, this one impressed me with its robust design and reliability. Though the adjuster knob feels slightly tricky, it seems to be a minor hassle compared to its versatility for both indoor and outdoor tasks. Overall, it's a nice option for everyday use."
12. Best Butane-Free: Navpeak Candle Lighter
Navpeak’s candle lighter comes with a secure double safety lock that prevents children from accidentally switching it on. It is powered by a battery and has a set of LED lights to show how much charge is left, thus reducing the need for using butane or lighter fluid. You can plug the lighter into an outlet, computer, or car USB for charging. Also, the safety-lock BBQ lighter is weather-resistant and does not emit any flame, making it apt for use when camping, traveling, and hiking.
Pros
- Ten-second auto power-off function
- High-temperature protection
- Open-circuit protection
- Free of butane
- Available in different colors
Cons
- Flame may turn off soon
- May produce a high-pitched sound when used
"I particularly like this lighter's incredible battery life that rarely needs a charge, so I can use it whenever. It's user-friendly but needs basic precautions for safer use. Though it occasionally makes a high-pitched noise, it's tolerable for its efficient performance."
13. Best Easy-To-Charge: AuaitTech Electric Arc Lighter
The AuaitTech Electric Arc Lighter features a hose that rotates 360 degrees, making it easy to use. This versatile lighter can be used for lighting candles, barbecues, stoves, and much more. It is powered by plasma tech for chemical-free operation. You can charge the lighter using your computer, car charger, or even your power bank as it comes with a universal charging port. The lighter has overload protection, a double-safety switch, and a six-second auto power-off function.
Pros
- Certified-safe battery
- Features a smart chip
- Butane-free
- Suitable for outdoor use
- Comes with a charging capacity indicator
- Backed by a 12-month warranty
Cons
- May take more time to light candle wicks
- May require frequent charging
"I initially got this lighter as it's rechargeable, but it turned out to be a handy tool with its bendable stem. Despite its occasional noise, I found this one a reliable and eco-friendly option for my needs."
How To Choose The Right BBQ Lighter?
The following tips can help you choose the right BBQ that meets your needs.
- Choose a design that offers the utmost safety so that you don’t end up burning your hand while using the lighter. You may also opt for lighters that are safety-tested and certified by regulatory bodies.
- Given that butane and flame lighters can be harmful; pick rechargeable or electric lighters for they are not only safe and environmentally-friendly but also convenient to use on outdoor trips
- The lighter should suit your intended purpose. So, if you are looking for a lighter for camping, hiking, or outdoor events, opt for one that has a splash-proof and windproof design, so it can deliver even during bad weather or windy conditions.
- Have children at home? Then you must select a lighter with childproof safety features
- Also, the lighter should be portable and travel-friendly, so that you can easily reach out to it when in need.
, an experienced product review blogger with expertise in recipes and crafts, says, “Look for a BBQ lighter that has a battery indicator. Nothing could be worse than trying to start the fire at a BBQ party and discovering the battery of the lighter is dead.”
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How should I refill a butane lighter?
It’s easy. Most lighters come with an easy-to-refill valve. All you have to do is turn it upside down, remove the valve, fill it with butane, and seal the valve back again.
2. Can I light my gas grill with a lighter?
Yes, you can light the gas grill with a lighter as most of the lighters can be used for grill purposes.
3. Do electric lighters work on grills?
Yes, well-charged electric lighters or plasma lighters can get a grill stove started. Since they are wind-resistant, they are apt for outdoor use.
4. How many volts is a BBQ lighter?
It may vary based on the type of battery and brand of the lighter. For example, an electric rechargeable lighter could have a 3.7V lithium battery, on average.
5. Why is my lighter not working after refilling?
Your lighter may not work after refilling if good quality and refined butane wasn’t used, there is air trapped in the lighter, the tank wasn’t bled properly before refilling, or the lighter or butane is still cold post refilling.
6. Are barbecue lighters refillable?
Most butane fuel-powered lighters are refillable, while the plasma lighters are not as they don’t run on fuel but electricity. Most electric lighters can be recharged with a USB cable.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Sakshi John is an experienced product writer and reviewer specializing in kitchenware. With numerous such articles to her name, she is well versed with people’s kitchen necessities and related quality parameters. Keeping those in mind, she has compiled this list of the best BBQ lighters after going through numerous reviews and websites. Each product is listed with detailed specifications about its features and distinctive aspects. The article consists of a buying guide and a FAQ section to help you make the best choice.
The Bottom Line
A BBQ lighter makes lighting a fire for barbeque more convenient and helps you save time. When picking the best BBQ lighter, ensure it is designed to keep your hands safe, like the Bic Multipurpose Lighters with long wands do. You may also choose rechargeable electric lighters such as Reidea Electronic Candle Lighter over flame and butane lighters, as they are relatively safer. The best BBQ lighters, such as the Leejie Electric Arc Lighter, are also waterproof or splashproof, making them a convenient choice for camping and outdoor events When you invest in a portable, travel-friendly BBQ lighter, it will be helpful for both home and outdoor use.
Infographic: What Is The Difference Between A BBQ Lighter And A Regular Lighter?
A BBQ lighter or a torch lighter produces a hotter intense flame than a regular lighter. Hence, these lighters are handy when cooking on a grill and for cigars or pipes. Check out the following infographic to learn the difference between a torch lighter and regular light.
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