When choosing a cigar, most enthusiasts focus on the flavor, brand, or strength. But there’s another element that can significantly impact your smoking experience—the shape of the cigar. Two popular options are box-pressed and round cigars. Though they may seem similar in composition, their shape affects everything from how they burn to how they feel in your hand.
So, what’s the difference between a box-pressed cigar and a round cigar, and which one is best suited for you? Let’s break it down.
What is a Box-Pressed Cigar?
Box-pressed cigars, sometimes called square-pressed cigars, are shaped by applying pressure to traditional round cigars, either by packing them tightly in a box or using a mold during production. The result is a cigar with flat sides and slightly rounded or sharp corners, resembling a rectangle or square.
This unique shape isn’t just about aesthetics—it also has some practical effects on the cigar’s burn, draw, and overall feel.
Characteristics of Box-Pressed Cigars:
- Burn Slower: Due to their more compact shape, box-pressed cigars tend to burn more slowly than round cigars. This can lead to a longer, more enjoyable smoking session.
- Tighter Draw: Box-pressed cigars often have a firmer pack, which can make the draw a bit tighter. However, many aficionados appreciate the slightly more controlled airflow.
- Unique Mouthfeel: The squared-off edges of box-pressed cigars give them a distinctive feel in the mouth, which some smokers find more comfortable.
What is a Round Cigar?
Round cigars are the classic shape most smokers are familiar with. Made by rolling the tobacco leaves in a cylindrical form, round cigars are typically hand-rolled or machine-rolled and are the most common shape you’ll find on the market.
The round shape offers a traditional smoking experience and tends to provide a more consistent airflow compared to box-pressed cigars.
Characteristics of Round Cigars:
- Even Draw: Round cigars are often praised for their smooth, even draw. The cylindrical shape allows for consistent airflow, making it easier to smoke.
- Classic Look and Feel: The rounded shape is the most familiar to cigar smokers, providing a traditional experience that many find more natural to hold and smoke.
- Burns More Quickly: Compared to box-pressed cigars, round cigars can burn a little faster due to their looser construction and more even air circulation.
How Box-Pressed and Round Cigars Affect Flavor
Though the shape of a cigar might not seem like it would influence flavor, it actually can. With box-pressed cigars, the tighter pack of tobacco can cause the cigar to burn slower, allowing the flavors to develop more gradually. This slower burn means that you’ll experience a longer-lasting, often cooler smoke with more nuanced flavors over time.
In contrast, round cigars offer a more straightforward smoking experience. The consistent airflow and quicker burn can lead to a more immediate flavor burst. For those who enjoy strong flavors that hit right away, a round cigar may be preferable.
Which Should You Choose?
The choice between a box-pressed and round cigar largely comes down to personal preference and the type of smoking experience you’re looking for.
- Choose a Box-Pressed Cigar If:
You prefer a longer smoke with a slow burn. If you like more controlled draws and enjoy taking your time with a cigar, the box-pressed shape is a great option. Many experienced smokers appreciate the way box-pressed cigars intensify the flavors gradually over time. - Choose a Round Cigar If:
You want a classic smoking experience with a consistent draw. Round cigars are ideal for smokers who enjoy an easy, even burn and appreciate getting full flavors early in the session. They’re perfect for both beginners and seasoned aficionados who want a no-fuss cigar that delivers.
Both box-pressed and round cigars offer unique advantages, and the best one for you depends on what you enjoy most in a cigar. If you like a longer smoke with a slow, nuanced burn, a box-pressed cigar may become your go-to. If you prefer a classic shape with a consistent draw, round cigars are likely to be your favorite.