E-Cigars: What Are They? (Quit Smoking Community’s Guide)

01Dec 2025 by Quit Smoking Advisors

E-cigars—sometimes called electronic cigars or vapor cigars—are a niche but growing category within the vaping world. They’re designed to look, feel, and function like traditional cigars while using vapor instead of smoke. For people who enjoy the ritual or aesthetic of cigars but want to avoid tobacco, burning, or smoke inhalation, e-cigars offer an alternative experience.

This guide explains what e-cigars are, how they work, who they’re for, and what to expect before buying one.

What Is an E-Cigar?

An e-cigar is a vapor device built to resemble a traditional cigar in:

  • Shape
  • Size
  • Color
  • Hand-feel

Instead of burning tobacco leaf, an e-cigar:

  • Uses a battery
  • Heats e-liquid
  • Produces inhalable vapor

Some are disposable, while others are rechargeable with replaceable cartridges or refillable tanks.

E-cigars are popular among:

  • Former cigar smokers
  • People who enjoy cigar aesthetics
  • Social vapers
  • Users seeking occasional “special occasion” vaping

How E-Cigars Work

E-cigars use the same core components as standard e-cigarettes:

1. Battery

Powers the heating coil.
Some models use automatic activation (puffs) rather than buttons.

2. Heating Coil

Heats e-liquid into vapor.

3. E-Liquid

Usually contains:

  • Propylene glycol (PG)
  • Vegetable glycerin (VG)
  • Flavorings
  • Optional nicotine

4. Wick or Cartridge

Delivers liquid to the heating coil.

Many disposable e-cigars are self-contained: no charging, no refills, no maintenance. Rechargeable units offer longer-term use and more customization.

Types of E-Cigars

E-cigars fall into three main categories:

1. Disposable E-Cigars

  • Pre-filled with e-liquid
  • Battery built in
  • No charging
  • Use until empty
  • Designed to replicate the look of single-use cigars

These are the most common and beginner-friendly.

2. Rechargeable E-Cigars

  • Include a rechargeable battery
  • Often use replaceable cartridges
  • More cost-effective long-term
  • Better vapor quality

3. Premium E-Cigar Systems

These larger models offer:

  • Refillable tanks
  • Higher vapor output
  • Longer battery life
  • More flavor options

They’re designed for users who want the look of a cigar but the performance of a traditional vape device.

What Do E-Cigars Taste Like?

Most e-cigar liquids are formulated to replicate:

  • Traditional cigar tobacco
  • Mild or sweet tobacco
  • Dark, rich flavors

Some brands also offer:

  • Vanilla
  • Coffee
  • Cherry
  • Classic cigar “sweet tip” flavoring

The flavor experience varies by device and brand, but generally:

  • Less harsh than real cigars
  • No smoke or burnt taste
  • Smoother inhale

Nicotine Strength Options

E-cigars typically come in:

  • 0 mg (nicotine-free)
  • Low strength (6–12 mg)
  • Medium (12–18 mg)
  • Higher strengths in some disposable models

Most e-cigar users prefer medium nicotine levels for a satisfying puff without overwhelming throat hit.

Who Are E-Cigars For?

E-cigars appeal to specific types of users:

Former Cigar Smokers

People who enjoyed cigars occasionally but want a safer, smoke-free option.

Social Users

E-cigars are often chosen for:

  • Parties
  • Celebrations
  • Weddings
  • Outdoor gatherings

They mimic the look and feel of a cigar without the smell or lingering smoke.

Vapers Who Prefer Cigar Aesthetics

Some people simply like the shape, size, or style of cigar-form devices.

Nicotine-Free Users

Non-smokers who want a “prop-style” cigar without tobacco or nicotine.

Pros of E-Cigars

  • No ash, smoke, or smell
  • Can be used indoors (depending on local rules)
  • No burning or tar
  • More discreet than real cigars
  • Long-lasting battery in larger models
  • Cheaper than premium cigars over time
  • No “next-day cigar mouth” or lingering odor
  • Good for celebrations without tobacco exposure

Cons of E-Cigars

  • Flavor realism varies by brand
  • Vapor is not identical to smoke
  • Some models have limited nicotine strengths
  • Disposable versions can be costly over time
  • Heavier than typical e-cigarettes
  • Not ideal for cloud chasing or advanced vaping

E-cigars are designed for experience, not high-end vape performance.

Are E-Cigars Safer Than Regular Cigars?

While e-cigars eliminate:

  • Tobacco
  • Smoke
  • Carbon monoxide
  • Combustion byproducts
  • Tar
  • Most carcinogens found in burning leaf

They still contain:

  • Nicotine (unless using 0 mg)
  • Some aerosol chemicals

So they are:

  • Likely far safer than cigar smoking
  • Not completely risk-free

For cigar smokers, switching to e-cigars significantly reduces exposure to toxins associated with burned tobacco.

E-Cigars vs. Regular E-Cigs

What’s different?

  • Shape and style
  • Flavor profiles
  • Puff activation
  • Target audience
  • Battery size

What’s the same?

  • Heating mechanism
  • E-liquid formula
  • Vapor instead of smoke
  • Nicotine delivery system

E-cigars are essentially e-cigarettes reimagined for cigar lovers.

Should You Try an E-Cigar?

You may enjoy e-cigars if you:

  • Want a cigar-like experience without tobacco
  • Enjoy mild, smooth tobacco flavors
  • Want a “special occasion” vape
  • Prefer the aesthetics of cigar-shaped devices
  • Want nicotine without smoke or burning chemicals

If you’re looking for:

  • Huge vapor
  • Modern sub-ohm performance
  • Sweet dessert flavors
    — then a standard vape device is a better choice.

Final Thoughts

E-cigars fill a unique role in the vaping world. They aren’t designed for cloud chasing or advanced customization — they’re made to mimic the look and feel of cigars in a safer, smoke-free format. For former cigar smokers or social users who want the cigar ritual without the health risks of burning tobacco, e-cigars are a surprisingly enjoyable option.