Quick Answer

Little cigars and cigarillos differ mainly in size and wrapper: little cigars are typically smaller and often have a tobacco or homogenized wrapper, while cigarillos are slightly larger and usually wrapped in natural tobacco leaf. Your choice should depend on your preferred smoking time and flavor intensity.

Size and Shape: The First Distinction

Size is the most obvious difference. Little cigars are generally shorter and thinner, often resembling cigarettes in dimensions, while cigarillos are a bit thicker and longer, offering a longer smoke. This affects how long each lasts and how they feel when held.

Wrapper and Flavor Impact

The wrapper type influences both flavor and burning characteristics. Little cigars may use a homogenized wrapper, which can produce a milder, more consistent burn, while cigarillos often use natural tobacco leaf, giving a richer, more complex flavor. This can be a deciding factor if you prioritize taste.

Nicotine Strength and Draw

Nicotine content and draw can vary between the two, though not strictly by type. Some little cigars are designed to be mellow, like Djarum Select, while others, like Swisher Sweets, offer a range of flavor profiles. Cigarillos might provide a slightly stronger nicotine hit, but it's more about the specific brand and blend.

Diagnosis: Which One Should You Choose?

  • Symptom: You're unsure whether little cigars or cigarillos better match your smoking habits and preferences.
  • Likely Cause: The two categories overlap in size and flavor, making it hard to tell them apart without clear specifications.
  • Corrective Action: Assess how long you want to smoke, the flavor intensity you enjoy, and whether you prefer a milder or bolder draw. Then choose a product that fits those criteria. If you want a quick, flavored smoke, try Swisher Sweets. For a smoother, premium taste, consider Djarum Select. If you're after a refreshing experience, Djarum Black Emerald is worth a try.
  • Stop or Choose Another Option: If you're looking for a long, slow smoke with a rich, natural wrapper, a full-size cigarillo or even a larger cigar might be a better fit. Little cigars may not satisfy that need.

Product Comparisons

  • Swisher Sweets Mellow Little Cigars: Swisher Sweets Little Cigars come in cartons of 200 and are available in a variety of flavors. This makes them a convenient and flavorful option for those who want a consistent, mass-produced little cigar with many taste choices.

    Swisher Sweets Mellow Little Cigars

    Swisher Sweets Mellow Little Cigars

  • Djarum Select Little Cigars: Djarum Select Little Cigars have a mellow draw, distinctive aroma, and the smooth flavor of premium tobacco. If you prefer a smoother, more refined smoke, these little cigars offer a premium experience in a smaller format.

    Djarum Select Little Cigars

    Djarum Select Little Cigars

  • Djarum Black Emerald Little Cigars: Djarum Black Emerald Little Cigars are made with Sumatran tobacco, delivering a cool and refreshing experience. For a unique, refreshing twist, this option stands out with its special tobacco blend and cooling sensation.