What is the difference between a cigar and a cigarette?

It was Memorial Day weekend in Atlanta, the sun is shining, the grill is hot, and my boys and I are out on the back patio having a heated debate about the age-old question: "What is the difference between a cigar and a cigarette?"

First up, we have my folk Travis, who thinks a cigar is just a fancy cigarette. "They both got tobacco, they both get smoked, what's the big deal?" he says, chomping on a big ole cigar.

Next, we have my boy Jamal, who thinks a cigar is for the sophisticated smoker. "Cigars are an art form, cuz. They got different flavors and strengths, and you gotta know how to smoke 'em right," he says, puffing away on his cigar like he's in a fancy smoking lounge.

And finally, we have my hype man Keebo, who thinks a cigar is just for showboating. "All them cigar smokers just tryna look cool, but ain't nothing better than a good ole cigarette," he says, lighting up a cigarette and blowing smoke in our faces.

Well, as the designated voice of reason in this group, allow me to set the record straight. A cigar and a cigarette are indeed similar in that they both contain tobacco, but there are a few key differences.

First, cigars are made from a blend of different types of tobacco leaves and are rolled in a specific way, while cigarettes are made from a blend of tobacco, paper, and chemicals and are usually machine-rolled.

Second, cigars are typically much larger than cigarettes and are meant to be smoked slowly over the course of an hour or more. On the other hand, cigarettes are meant to be smoked quickly and are usually finished within 5-10 minutes.

And finally, cigars are often considered a luxury item and are associated with special occasions and celebrations, while cigarettes are considered a more everyday item and are often associated with addiction and negative health effects.

So there you have it, folks. A cigar is not just a fancy cigarette, it's a whole different ball game. And next time we have a debate on the back patio, I'll make sure to bring some cigars for everyone, leave the cigarettes at home
and we can enjoy the difference together.

Check out my other articles:

How do I know a cigar is fresh?   

What is the difference between a cigar and a cigarette? 

How long should a cigar be aged before smoking? 

Why do cigars come in different shapes and sizes? 

How do you cut a cigar? 

What is the best way to store cigars? 

What should I look for when buying cigars?