When you’re trying to get a fire started, there are a number of different tools that can tackle the job. But too often, the outdoor elements can pose some serious challenges, foiling your attempts to get a light. Wind is an especially tough foe, and it has the power to snuff out a traditional lighter in just seconds. If you’re tired of struggling to get a light in unpredictably windy outdoor environments, it’s time to try a new kind of lighter: a windproof lighter. These innovative lighters can make getting a fire started so much easier, and they’ll never blow out when a gust of wind pops up. They’re a must-have whether you’re camping, hunting, or simply looking for a more reliable lighter to carry on your person. Check out our picks for the best windproof lighters right here.
If you’re looking for a windproof lighter that can truly do it all, you’re going to want to get your hands on the Lcfun Outdoor Windproof Lighter. This well-rounded product is built for the outdoors, and its impressive durability in the face of the elements is what makes it our top choice. The lighter, which measures a compact 1.9 x 0.7 x 2.7 inches in size and features a camouflage exterior, is an electric arc lighter. Spark this lighter into action, and its flameless design won’t be prone to weakness in the face of strong winds. It’s also waterproof, thanks to its ring-sealed cover and locking clasp; the IP56 waterproof rating means you never have to worry about it working while you’re in rain or snow. The built-in rechargeable lithium battery takes about two hours to reach a full charge via USB. And, you’ll get hundreds of lights out of just one charge.
The only thing better than one windproof lighter is two — that you can get for an affordable price. That’s exactly what you’ll get with the Topkay Windproof Refillable Lighters. Sold as a set of two lighters for one budget-friendly price, you’ll get a lighter you can carry every day and a spare for those unexpected emergencies. Each of the 2.92 x 1.48 x 0.92 inch lighters included in this set runs on butane gas, and they’re refillable so you can use them over and over again. These windproof lighters offer even more value with their triple torch flames, a feature that ensures you get a strong, powerful flame with “turbo jet” force each time. Designed to work in windy conditions, you’ll like the hot, high flame these lighters create. A visible gas tank makes it easy to see where your butane level is, and you can actually adjust how much you’re using with an included control knob. This increases or decreases the flames produced to keep fuel consumption at just the right level.
The Tesla Coil Lighters Rechargeable Windproof Lighter is one well-constructed product. It’s a bit pricier than other windproof lighters, but it’s worth the investment if you’re looking for a highly reliable option. The compact 1.75 x 0.5 x 3 inch lighter weighs just 4 ounces and fits into any pocket or gear pouch. It uses an electric Tesla coil to spark a light; with the press of a button, you’ll get an arc of electricity that can light anything it comes into contact with to create fire. Wrapped in an exterior case that’s constructed out of metal with a safety lid, you’ll be able to prevent accidents easily. As long as the lid is shut, your lighter won’t light up. Your windproof lighter will last up to a week on a single charge and can deliver anywhere from 100 to 300 uses. When you’re out of power, all you have to do is recharge it via USB.
If you’re worried about banging up your lighter and potentially damaging it outdoors in rugged environments, you’re going to want to opt for the TG Plasma Lighter. This windproof lighter is made for tough use cases, and it’s built to stay in your hand whether it’s windy, wet, or unpredictable outside. Constructed with a silicone rubber casing around its body, the lighter is easy to grip and won’t slip or slide around. This lighter runs on a rechargeable lithium polymer 220mAh battery that delivers 0.81 watt-hours. You can activate the plasma arc with the press of a button, and a push-to-open cover with a locking mechanism keeps the electrodes safe and protected. In addition to being windproof, this lighter is also waterproof. It’ll last for up to 300 uses on a single charge, and it recharges via USB for the ultimate level of convenience. You don’t have to worry about dropping this lighter; it’ll work no matter what you put it through.
The Guevara Butane Torch Lighter is a great option for those who want the power of a traditional flame-based lighter but increased reliability. This lighter will stand up in the face of wind with increased power and two flames — giving you a backup in the event one potentially blows out. Both flames are powerful and fire up in seconds. Constructed with a sturdy metal body and a clear fuel level window, this lighter runs on butane and can be refilled when your fuel source runs out. When lit, you’ll get a powerful flame with a large base. That extra surface area ensures you can easily light small and large items. If you’re someone who smokes, you’ll also find the included retractable cigar cutter handy when you’re outdoors without one stashed in your gear. Just keep in mind that this lighter doesn’t come with butane; you’ll have to buy it separately.
The Leejie Torch Windproof Lighter is a fantastic option for anyone who wants a lighter they can really control. You’ll be able to stay on top of this lighter’s flame thanks to a built-in adjustable flame dial on the base, which allows you to increase or decrease the flame’s size and strength. This gives you more versatility and more options in the face of windy weather. In strong wind, you can create a flame with a wider base for better stability. In calm weather, a smaller flame that uses less fuel is the perfect fit. The lighter measures 2.95 x 1.26 x 0.7 inches in size and runs on butane, though it doesn’t arrive at your address with butane included. The exterior of this windproof lighter is sleek metal, and a fold-out cigar punch is stashed in the casing. It’s a great everyday lighter that’ll adapt perfectly to all kinds of outdoor scenarios.
A rechargeable lighter is already smarter than your average fuel-based lighter, but the Lcfun Windproof Arc Lighter takes smart to a new level. This compact windproof lighter generates no flame, which makes it an excellent ally when you’re facing gusty, windy conditions. It measures 1.1 x 0.4 x 2.9 inches in size and is made with a zinc alloy metal exterior. The built-in rechargeable lithium battery gives you an efficient power source that you can recharge by USB when needed. Most importantly of all, though, this windproof arc lighter includes a number of extra “smart” features, like four battery indicators, overcharge and short-circuit protection, and even automatic shutoff after 10 seconds. The lighter even flashes its indicatory lights each time you open the lid, which can be a handy safety feature. It even charges quickly, reaching full in just one to one and a half hours.
You never want to be caught without the ability to start a fire, and the Sipoe Electric Lighter is a long-lasting option that’ll meet your needs. This impressive electric arc lighter has a lengthy battery life, giving you increased reliability. The built-in 300mAh rechargeable battery can be recharged over 600 times, and it lasts for days after a single charge. Four LED indicator lights give you a real-time look at the battery’s power level, and when you do need to recharge, it’ll take just 1.5 hours to reach full. When it comes to lighting fires, this windproof lighter uses a powerful dual arc plasma beam. A quick, click-button ignition gets the electrodes fired up in the blink of an eye. Even in the windiest conditions, this lighter will get the job done. The ultra-slim and lightweight shape of this lighter also makes it a breeze to carry anywhere.
The Green Vivid Flameless Electric Lighter is an electric version of a more traditional dual flame fuel-based lighter — and it’s more reliable when you’re facing off with the wind. It uses electricity to create not just one small arc between its electrodes but two arcs, giving you more surface area with which to light a fire. This lighter is especially handy if you’re lighting larger items, as arc lighters can be a bit limited with just a single arc of power. It’s also approximately five times more powerful when compared to a single arc model. With an overall size of just 2.7 x 1.9 x 0.7 inches in size and a weight of 0.11 pounds, this windproof lighter is compact and light enough for any pocket. It’s more than just windproof, too. The lighter is also waterproof, thanks to its lighter cover and locking clasp that seal off the electrical components with a tight ring to lock out moisture.
When it comes to extreme weather — torrential downpours of rain, gale-like gusts of wind, and moisture caused by snowy conditions — you’ll want to make sure you have the UST Refillable Floating Lighter by your side. This impressive little lighter may measure just 2.5 x 0.5 x 1.5 inches, but it packs some power when it comes to unpredictable weather. This windproof lighter runs on butane, and it lights a flame with a Piezo electric ignition that’ll last for 30,000 lights. That ignition even works when wet thanks to its zinc die-cast wind guard. This lighter is housed in impact-resistant, waterproof ABS plastic with an O-ring seal and locking clasp. The flame is windproof in the face of gusts up to 80 miles per hour. And, the housing is buoyant; if you drop this lighter in water, it’ll actually float. If it’s flame power you’re looking for too, you’ll love the catalyzer coil that brings each flame up to 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit.
Related: 7 magnificent multitools that belong in every toolbox
Why should you trust us
I have nearly a year of experience reviewing products for Brookline Media’s websites, including The Drive and Car Bibles. My past reviews include Best ATV Bags, Best Solar Chargers for Backpacking, and Best Waterproof Tents. I’ve also written historical articles for War History Online, how-to articles for WonderHowTo, and the nonfiction book Fidget! for Adams Media.
Types of windproof lighters
When you’re searching for the perfect windproof lighter, you’ll want to consider a few different kinds. There are a number of different options available, from traditional fuel-powered flame lighters to more high-tech flameless options powered by electricity. Here’s an overview of three of the most common types of windproof lighters you’ll find.
Fuel-based lighters
Fuel-based lighters are traditional — in fact, you’re very likely already carrying a fuel-based lighter. But fuel-based windproof lighters are a little different from the average lighter. These lighters typically run on butane, and they emit flames that are supposed to be strong enough to stay lit when wind is blowing. Many fuel-based windproof lighters are also double flame torch lighters, which gives you extra power and double the flame output to withstand wind.
There are a number of benefits to fuel-based lighters; they’re easy to use and they’re excellent for lighting campfires and getting grills fired up. They’re quite versatile too. However, when they run out of fuel, you’re out of firepower. Even with two flames, the wind can still knock out your light source if it’s blowing fiercely.
Arc or plasma lighters
Arc lighters, or plasma lighters, are another windproof option. These lighters don’t rely on fuel; instead, they use electricity to generate a “flame” that looks nothing like a traditional flame. Arc lighters run on rechargeable batteries, and they use two electrodes at one end to spark fire. With the push of a button, an electrical arc appears between the electrodes, and that arc will light whatever’s placed in its path.
One of the biggest benefits of an arc or plasma lighter is the ease of use. You don’t have to refill any fuel, and the battery can be recharged via USB like most modern gadgets. There’s no flame to worry about — when you need to start a fire, the electricity and electrodes will get the job done.
Coil lighters
Coil lighters, which are also called Tesla coil lighters, are another option. They’re pretty similar to arc and plasma lighters, as they don’t actually create a flame when used as a lighter. Instead, they use Nikola Tesla’s high-voltage, low-current electrical coil to spark a fire. The coil generates a high-heat electric arc. So, with no fuel needed, a coil lighter turns energy into a spark that can withstand even the windiest and most gale-like conditions outdoors.
Like arc and plasma lighters, coil lighters don’t require any fuel. They also recharge via USB, and you’ll get hundreds of uses out of a single charge.
What to look for when buying windproof lighters
As you consider and compare various types of windproof lighters, it’s important to look for two critical features: the power source and a lighter’s ease of use.
The power source is important because you want to be able to rely on your windproof lighter under all kinds of conditions — including being far from home with no ability to plug in or easily refuel. Fuel has its drawbacks, as butane can be used up quickly when you’re using your lighter often. Electric models tend to last longer per charge, and if you carry a solar charger, you can even “refill” your lighter while you’re outdoors.
Ease of use is important because getting anything up and running in rough weather is a challenge. A windproof lighter that’s too difficult to light or wield will only complicate matters when the wind is fiercely blowing. Take a look at the different components needed to spark a light, like a cover, any buttons, switches, or other actions you need to take. The fewer there are, the easier you’ll be able to get a fire going when you need one.
Do You Need a windproof lighter?
Absolutely anyone can benefit from carrying a windproof lighter instead of a traditional lighter. First and foremost, a windproof lighter is better able to withstand gusts of wind that could easily knock out a traditional lighter’s small flame. Anyone who’s a hunter, outdoorsman, camper, or simply someone who wants to be prepared in any scenario will want to have one of these more durable, more reliable lighters on hand.
But withstanding wind isn’t the only perk of owning and relying on a windproof lighter. Built for survivalists and outdoors enthusiasts, these lighters tend to be all-around allies for all types of weather. When you choose a windproof lighter, you’re getting benefits that include:
- The ability to light fires in inclement weather, including mild and strong wind conditions
- More reliable lighter performance, as the flame (if there is one at all) is typically less prone to flickering, failing, or running out of fuel
- The versatility to be able to light all types of items, from campfires to cigars to barbecues
- Increased durability, as most windproof lighters are also able to survive other outdoor hazards like water, impacts, and shocks
- Increased safety, if you choose an arc lighter or coil lighter, as there is no open flame or combustible fuel
Pricing ranges for windproof lighters
- $15 and Under: Most windproof lighters, regardless of whether they’re fuel-based or arc lighters, will cost you less than $15. You’ll find a wealth of different options within this affordable price range, giving you choices in size, durability, and functionality.
- $16 or More: If you want to upgrade to a more premium windproof lighter, you can expect to pay approximately $16 or more. These lighters may be more durable or feature more unique designs; however, even the priciest windproof lighters typically don’t go too far beyond $20 in price.
How we chose our top picks
We picked our best windproof lighters by researching the highest-rated, most-recommended, and most-reviewed items on Amazon. The products on our list were among the top sellers, and they featured positive user reviews to prove their hardiness and reliability in the face of windy conditions.
Related: 9 of the best hatchets for camping and survival
Task & Purpose and its partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.
The post The best windproof lighters for your next outdoor adventure appeared first on Task & Purpose.