1. Fuel Type:
* Butane: Most common and readily available. Offers a strong, consistent flame and is refillable. Ideal for everyday use, BBQs, and camping.
* Zippo Fluid: Used in classic Zippo lighters. Provides a reliable flame but is less common and can be more expensive.
* Plasma: Uses electricity to create a flameless arc. Safer, windproof, and environmentally friendly. However, they can be more expensive and require charging.
* Propane: Offers a powerful, hot flame, often used for torches and soldering.
* Kerosene: Used in some camping and survival lighters. Provides a long burn time but produces a sooty flame.
2. Use Case:
* Everyday Use: Choose a reliable and easy-to-use lighter with a convenient size and fuel source. Butane or Zippo fluid lighters are good options.
* Camping/Outdoor: Look for a durable, windproof lighter with a long burn time. Consider a butane lighter with a windproof design or a propane torch.
* Survival: Choose a lighter with a robust construction, multiple ignition methods, and a reliable fuel source.
* Cooking/BBQ: A torch lighter with propane or butane provides a powerful flame for grilling and cooking.
* Smoking: A lighter with a comfortable size and a consistent flame is suitable.
3. Features:
* Windproof: Essential for outdoor use. Look for a lighter with a windproof design or a built-in shield.
* Adjustable Flame: Allows you to control the size and intensity of the flame.
* Refillable: More economical than disposable lighters.
* Durability: Choose a lighter with a sturdy construction and a good warranty.
* Design: Consider the size, weight, and aesthetics of the lighter.
4. Budget:
* Affordable: Disposable lighters, basic butane lighters, and some Zippo lighters are budget-friendly.
* Mid-range: High-quality butane lighters, windproof lighters, and some premium Zippo lighters fall in this category.
* Premium: Plasma lighters, torches, and specialty lighters can be quite expensive.
Examples:
* Everyday use: Bic lighters, Clipper lighters, standard butane lighters.
* Camping: Jetboil lighters, lighter with windproof shield, propane torch.
* Survival: Firestarter, magnesium fire starter, multi-tool lighters.
* Cooking: Torch lighters, propane grill lighters.
* Smoking: Zippo lighters, lighter with a soft flame.
Remember: Always follow safety precautions when using lighters. Keep them away from children and flammable materials.