Finding the right Cuban cigar can be a challenge. Especially when you’re looking for both quality and value. In this guide, we highlight the top 16 standout cigars you’ll find right here on Swiss Cuban Cigars. All cigars featured are individually priced under $20.

To ensure cigars earn their spot, we’ve evaluated them according to strict criteria. We look at flavor profile, strength and body, construction and draw, burn time, and value for money. They’re carefully selected from authentic offerings available at Swiss Cuban Cigars

Let’s explore the best Cuban cigars under $20. Each promises excellent craftsmanship and flavor without making a huge dent in your wallet.

Best 16 Cigars under $20

Cohiba Exquisitos
Cohiba Siglo I
H. Upmann Magnum 50
H. Upmann Petit Coronas
Hoyo de Monterrey Double Coronas
Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2
Juan Lopez Seleccion No. 2
Montecristo Double Edmundo
Partagas Serie D No. 4
Punch Double Coronas
Punch Punch
Ramon Allones Specially Selected
Romeo y Julieta Churchills
Trinidad Reyes
Vegas Robaina Unicos
Quai d'Orsay Coronas Claro

Our Picks for the Best Cigars Under $20

Cohiba Exquisitos

A petite Seoane‑vitola Cuban cigar from the elite Cohiba line. The Exquisitos delivers sophisticated flavor in a compact 5‑inch format. This makes it ideal for a mid‑morning break or pairing with coffee.

Despite its small size, it offers the craftsmanship and taste Cohiba is known for. Salted caramel, graham cracker, wood, and cocoa bits. Combined carefully with straw and leather to round out a smooth, medium-to-full-bodied smoke. The finish is bold but never overpowering.

Price: $13.80 per cigar
Manufacturer: Habanos S.A. (El Laguito factory, Cuba)
Size & Shape: 5″ × ~33–36 ring gauge
Ring Gauge: ~33 RG (tiny panatela)
Flavor Profile: Woody, nutty, cream‑like with coffee & light spice notes
Strength: Medium to medium‑full
Wrapper Type: Cuban Corojo (natural, oily)
Burn Time: 15–30 minutes

Pros	Cons
Full Cuban flavor in a compact size	Short smoke time may not suit all
Prestigious Cohiba branding and quality	Higher cost per inch
Well-balanced and refined taste profile	Can prove to be a tight draw

Cohiba Siglo I

A classic Petite Corona from Cohiba’s prestigious Línea 1492. The Siglo I delivers a satisfying, full-bodied Cuban experience. It only takes about 20–30 minutes to smoke. Perfect for aficionados seeking quality in a compact stick.

The medium-to-full flavors provide a complex and balanced smoking experience. This can be enjoyed by new and experienced smokers alike.

Price: $14 per cigar
Manufacturer: Habanos S.A. (Cuba)
Size & Shape: 4″ × 40 (Petit Corona / Perla)
Ring Gauge: 40
Flavor Profile: Coffee, cedar, toasted nuts, caramel, earth
Strength: Medium to Medium-Full
Wrapper Type: Cuban Claro/Colorado
Burn Time: Approximately 25–30 minutes

Pros	Cons
Premium Cohiba blend in a short format	Pricey for its size
Rich, layered flavor experience	Not suitable for those wanting a longer smoke
Consistently high construction quality	Tight draw

H. Upmann Magnum 50

The H. Upmann Magnum 50 is a well-balanced Cuban cigar known for its smooth flavor. It has a well-respected progression and extended smoking time. Hefty tobacco undertones mix with sweetness and wheat layers.

Toward the end, you’ll get a bite of citrus, mixed with spice. It features a generous ring gauge and creamy, nutty notes. This makes an ideal option for smokers who want a more relaxed, nuanced experience. It doesn't exhibit an overpowering strength.

Price: $11.72
Manufacturer: Habanos S.A. (Cuba)
Size & Shape: 6 3/8″ × 50 (Double Robusto)
Ring Gauge: 50
Flavor Profile: Cream, cedar, toasted almonds, honey, and light pepper
Strength: Medium
Wrapper Type: Cuban
Burn Time: Approximately 60–75 minutes

Pros	Cons
Smooth, creamy flavor with gentle complexity	Milder than some may prefer in a large format
Long burn time makes it great for extended sessions	Slightly soft draw reported in a few batches
High-quality construction and aging potential	Requires time and patience to enjoy fully

H. Upmann Petit Coronas

The H. Upmann Petit Coronas is a classic Cuban cigar. It's beloved for its mild flavor and approachable size. Its traditional Corona format delivers creamy, wood-forward notes. This is combined with a subtle spice, making it a reliable everyday smoke. It's also a gentle introduction to Cuban cigars for newer smokers.

The lightly pressed corona shape delivers a smooth, consistent smoke. This is true from start to finish, allowing you to take in the complex aromas.

Price: $8.64
Manufacturer: Habanos S.A. (Cuba)
Size & Shape: 5 1/8″ × 42 (Petit Corona)
Ring Gauge: 42
Flavor Profile: Cream, cedar, hay, light nutmeg, floral hints
Strength: Mild to Medium
Wrapper Type: Cuban
Burn Time: Approximately 40–50 minutes

Pros	Cons
Smooth and mild flavor ideal for newer smokers	Lacks complexity for experienced palates
Balanced size, not too short, not too long	Requires careful storage to avoid tight draw
Traditional Cuban character with subtle spice	Can burn unevenly if rushed

Hoyo de Monterrey Double Coronas

The Hoyo de Monterrey Double Coronas is a legendary Cuban cigar. It's known for its large size and rich, complex flavor. Like most Hoyo de Monterrey cigars, there are some strong spice notes. However, the most memorable flavors are chocolate, cherry, and honey.

This iconic vitola delivers a full Cuban experience. It comes with creamy cedar, earth, and spice notes evolving over a long, satisfying smoke. This makes it perfect for special occasions or slow afternoons.

Price: $18
Manufacturer: Habanos S.A. (Cuba)
Size & Shape: 7 5/8″ × 49 (Double Corona)
Ring Gauge: 49
Flavor Profile: Creamy cedar, earth, leather, pepper, subtle spice
Strength: Medium to Medium-Full
Wrapper Type: Cuban
Burn Time: Approximately 90–120 minutes

Pros	Cons
Long, complex smoke with evolving flavors	Large size requires commitment and time
Classic Cuban profile loved by many aficionados	Can be overwhelming for beginners
Excellent construction with slow, even burn	Requires careful humidity control

Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2

The Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 is a classic Cuban Robusto known for its balanced, medium-bodied profile. The first third has heavy cedar and honey notes laced with black pepper and floral notes. Lemon undertones start to show in the second third. But the cedar and musk sometimes overshadow them.

With a smooth construction and evolving flavors, it offers a refined smoking experience. It appeals to both seasoned aficionados and those new to premium cigars.

Price: $13.44
Manufacturer: Habanos S.A. (Cuba)
Size & Shape: 4 7/8″ × 50 (Robusto)
Ring Gauge: 50
Flavor Profile: Creamy cedar, lemon, leather, coffee, earthy undertones, and a touch of spice
Strength: Medium
Wrapper Type: Cuban
Burn Time: Approximately 60–75 minutes

Pros	Cons
Balanced, medium-bodied profile suitable for various occasions	May lack the intensity preferred by some cigar aficionados
Smooth construction with an even burn	Shorter length may not satisfy those seeking a longer smoke
Evolving flavors that enhance the smoking experience	Sometimes displays a tighter draw

Juan Lopez Seleccion No.2

The Juan López Selección No. 2 is a distinguished Cuban Robusto that offers a rich, medium-to-full-bodied smoking experience. This cigar is handcrafted in the renowned Vuelta Abajo region. It is celebrated for its complex flavor profile. It's also known for its impeccable construction.

The cold draw shows musky cedar flavors that leave a tang of salt on the lips. The first draws produce abundant white smoke and a long nutty retrohale. The final third features hot peppers that change into more mellow flavors of moss and grass. Ideal for seasoned aficionados seeking depth and nuance in a shorter smoke.

Price: $10
Manufacturer: Habanos S.A. (Cuba)
Size & Shape: 4 7/8″ × 50 (Robusto)
Ring Gauge: 50
Flavor Profile: Cedar, cocoa, pepper, earth, dried fruit
Strength: Medium to Full
Wrapper Type: Cuban Corojo
Burn Time: Approximately 45–55 minutes

Pros	Cons
Rich, complex flavor profile with evolving notes	May be too robust for those preferring milder cigars
Excellent construction with an even burn	Shorter length may not satisfy those seeking a longer smoke
Ideal for aging; improves with time in the humidor	Limited availability in some regions

Montecristo Double Edmundo

The Montecristo Double Edmundo is a robust Cuban cigar. It offers a rich, full-bodied experience in a substantial 5″ vitola. Crafted with precision, it delivers a complex blend of flavors and a luxurious finish.

The cigar’s appealing look matches the tobacco’s aromas. It has cold-draw notes of coffee, oatmeal, chocolate, earth, and cedar. This one is perfect for aficionados who enjoy depth. All without committing to an extremely long smoke.

Price: $14.92
Manufacturer: Habanos S.A. (Cuba)
Size & Shape: 5″ × 54 (Double Robusto)
Ring Gauge: 54
Flavor Profile: Dark chocolate, espresso, cedar, black pepper, and earth
Strength: Full
Wrapper Type: Cuban Colorado
Burn Time: Approximately 60–75 minutes

Pros	Cons
Rich, multi-layered flavors with depth	Slightly larger ring gauge may be too intense for some
Well-balanced smoke with smooth transitions	Intense notes might be too rich for novices.
Strong construction with reliable draw	Longer smoking experience requires patience

Partagas Serie D No. 4

The Partagas Serie D No. 4 is a legendary Cuban Robusto famed for its rich, full-flavored profile. It delivers an intense smoking experience with robust earthy, woody, and spicy notes. These are perfect for aficionados seeking bold character in a compact vitola.

Price: $14.30
Manufacturer: Habanos S.A. (Cuba)
Size & Shape: 4 7/8″ × 50 (Robusto)
Ring Gauge: 50
Flavor Profile: Earth, leather, cedar, black pepper, dark chocolate
Strength: Medium to Full
Wrapper Type: Cuban Corojo
Burn Time: Approximately 60–75 minutes

Pros	Cons
Bold, full-bodied flavor with rich complexity	Strength may be too intense for casual smokers
Compact format delivers strong flavor in a short time	Draw can occasionally be tight
Consistent quality and aging potential	Not ideal for those preferring mild or creamy cigars

Punch Double Coronas

The Punch Double Coronas is a legendary Cuban vitola. It offers a full-bodied and richly complex smoke. This comes in one of the most luxurious formats available. With a massive 7.6″ length, this cigar is designed for extended enjoyment. It's also renowned for evolving flavor. This makes it a standout choice for special occasions.

Price: $14.56
Manufacturer: Habanos S.A. (Cuba)
Size & Shape: 7.6″ × 49 (Double Corona / Prominente)
Ring Gauge: 49
Flavor Profile: Cedar, dark cherry, earth, leather, black pepper, hints of cocoa and floral tones
Strength: Medium to Full
Wrapper Type: Cuban Corojo
Burn Time: Approximately 90–120 minutes

Pros	Cons
Rich, nuanced flavor that evolves over a long session	Requires a large time commitment to enjoy fully
Large format ideal for pairing with drinks and conversation	Not beginner-friendly due to size and strength
Excellent aging potential for collectors	Occasional tight draw in some cigars

Punch Punch

The Punch Punch is a historic Corona Gorda that’s been the signature vitola of the Punch line for decades. This medium-bodied Cuban cigar delivers a rich blend. It combines smoky hardwood, leather, and subtle sweetness.

The foot offers a bold aroma on the pre-light, combining citrus with an understated honey base. The first third of this cigar is the most potently flavorful. It mixes dark, smoky mesquite with overtones of chocolate and a mellowed-out sweetness. It offers depth in a compact format.

Price: $8.64
Manufacturer: Habanos S.A. (Cuba)
Size & Shape: 5.6″ × 46 (Corona Gorda)
Ring Gauge: 46
Flavor Profile: Cedar, leather, earth, creamy vanilla-wood, hints of milk chocolate and spice
Strength: Medium to Medium‑Full
Wrapper Type: Oily Maduro Cuban wrapper with triple cap
Burn Time: Approximately 60–75 minutes

Pros	Cons
Classic, complex Punch profile in a balanced medium format	Some may find the early draw slightly tight
Rich flavor spectrum, wood, leather, chocolate, spice	Can taste “green” or thin if smoked too early
Well-aged and consistent craftsmanship	Draw/burn issues reported with young cigars

Ramon Allones Specially Selected

The Ramon Allones Specially Selected is a standout Robusto. It's well-known in the Cuban cigar world. This cigar is revered for its bold character and complex, evolving flavor profile. The first third kicks off with a punch. It’s medium-bodied right from the start, with a peppery zing that hits both the nose and tongue.

As you get into the second third, the flavor deepens with rich notes of leather and earth. Finally, the pepper and spice come back in full, making for a bold, satisfying finish. It balances earthy depth with notes of sweetness and spice. This makes it a favorite among seasoned smokers looking for richness. Despite this, it doesn't display overpowering strength.

Price: $9.76
Manufacturer: Habanos S.A. (Cuba)
Size & Shape: 4 7/8″ × 50 (Robusto)
Ring Gauge: 50
Flavor Profile: Leather, roasted coffee, toasted nuts, cinnamon, dark cocoa
Strength: Medium to Full
Wrapper Type: Cuban
Burn Time: Approximately 60–70 minutes

Pros	Cons
Complex flavor transitions from earthy to sweet spice	Draw can occasionally be tight or inconsistent
Well-constructed with a slow, even burn	Full flavor may be overwhelming for newer smokers
Performs well both fresh and with age	May develop uneven burn if not stored properly

Romeo y Julieta Churchills

The Romeo y Julieta Churchill is a legendary Cuban cigar. It's known for its graceful blend and stature. Named after Winston Churchill, this long-format vitola delivers a refined, medium-bodied experience. It also promises a smooth flavor progression.

Floral notes increase once the cigar is afire, with leather, oak, and wild berry. This makes it perfect for those who appreciate a leisurely smoke.

Price: $15.48
Manufacturer: Habanos S.A. (Cuba)
Size & Shape: approximately 7″ × 47 (Churchill format)
Ring Gauge: 47
Flavor Profile: cedar, leather, mild spice, nuts, and creamy cocoa
Strength: Medium
Wrapper Type: Cuban Corojo/Colorado
Burn Time: approximately 90–120 minutes

Pros	Cons
Elegant, smooth smoke with creamy, nutty undertones	Large size demands patience and time
Velvety mouthfeel and classic Cuban character	Might feel mild for fans of robust cigars
Consistently well-made with even burn	Needs careful storage due to length

Trinidad Reyes

The Trinidad Reyes is a petite yet sophisticated Cuban cigar. It delivers a surprising depth of flavor in a compact format. It starts strongly with sweet hay, leather, and spicy notes of pink peppercorns.

The first third subsides into grassiness with hints of caramel. Halfway through, at about 20 minutes, creamy notes of coconut and a tang of anise start to seep through. With its elegant construction and smooth profile, it offers a refined smoking experience. This is perfect for those seeking quality in a shorter smoke.

Price: $12.25
Manufacturer: Habanos S.A. (Cuba)
Size & Shape: 4 3/8″ × 40 (Petit Panetela)
Ring Gauge: 40
Flavor Profile: Cedar, leather, floral notes, sweet spices, creamy vanilla, roasted coffee, dark chocolate
Strength: Medium
Wrapper Type: Cuban
Burn Time: Approximately 35–45 minutes

Pros	Cons
Elegant, smooth smoke with creamy, nutty undertones	Shorter length means less burn time for slow smokers
Easy to enjoy anytime, especially when short on time	Narrow ring gauge may feel delicate to some
Subtle but layered flavors, great for beginners	Limited availability compared to other Trinidad vitolas

Vegas Robaina Unicos

The Vegas Robaina Unicos is a standout Cuban pyramid. It offers a rich, medium-to-full-bodied experience. Vegas Robaina is responsible for growing the finest wrapper tobacco in the world. People also note the luxury of how this cigar feels in your hand.

With a complex flavor profile and construction, it’s a favorite for aficionados. It's great for those seeking depth and refinement in a longer smoke.

Price: $13.80
Manufacturer: Habanos S.A. (Cuba)
Size & Shape: 6 1/8″ × 52 (Pyramid/Torpedo)
Ring Gauge: 52
Flavor Profile: Leather, roasted coffee, toasted nuts, cinnamon, dark cocoa
Strength: Medium to Full
Wrapper Type: Cuban
Burn Time: Approximately 90–120 minutes

Pros	Cons
Rich, complex flavor profile with depth	Longer smoke may not suit those short on time
Well-constructed with even burn	Complex flavor profile better appreciated by seasoned smokers
Flavors develop well over time	Bold profile may be too intense for casual smokers

Quai D'Orsai Coronas Claro

The Quai d'Orsay Coronas Claro is a refined Cuban cigar. It's known for its delicate flavor profile and elegant construction. The smoke is an easy-going, medium-bodied experience with hints of increased strength. It has a velvety finish. Cedar, leather, cocoa powder, cashew, caramel, and graham cracker notes are strung together.

Originally created for the French market, it offers a light to medium-bodied experience. It has subtle nuances, making it ideal for those seeking a sophisticated smoke.

Price: $11.20
Manufacturer: Habanos S.A. (Cuba)
Size & Shape: 5 1/2″ × 42 (Corona)
Ring Gauge: 42
Flavor Profile: Floral, nutty, honey, tea, orange peel, cocoa, leather, dried herbs
Strength: Medium
Wrapper Type: Cuban
Burn Time: Approximately 30–45 minutes

Pros	Cons
Elegant, light-bodied smoke with complex flavors	Shorter length may not satisfy those preferring longer smokes
Well-constructed with an even burn	Mild profile may be too subtle for fans of bolder cigars
Ideal for pairing with light beverages like tea or white wine	Limited availability

Comparison of the Best Cigars Under $20

Below, you’ll find a quick comparison table allowing you to quickly scan our picks. You can easily compare these alongside one another to figure out which best suits your needs. We’ve listed each key point in the criteria. This includes size, strength, flavor profile, burn time, and price.

Cigar	Vitola (Size & Shape)	Strength	Flavor Profile	Burn Time	Price
Cohiba Exquisitos	5″ × 33–36 (Panetela)	Medium to Full	Wood, cocoa, leather, graham cracker	15–30 min	$13.80
Cohiba Siglo I	4″ × 40 (Petit Corona)	Medium to Full	Coffee, cedar, toasted nuts	25–30 min	$14.00
H. Upmann Magnum 50	6 3/8″ × 50 (Double Robusto)	Medium	Cream, cedar, almonds, honey	60–75 min	$11.72
H. Upmann Petit Coronas	5 1/8″ × 42 (Petit Corona)	Mild to Medium	Cream, cedar, nutmeg, floral	40–50 min	$8.64
Hoyo de Monterrey Double Coronas	7 5/8″ × 49 (Double Corona)	Medium to Full	Cedar, leather, chocolate, spice	90–120 min	$18.00
Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2	4 7/8″ × 50 (Robusto)	Medium	Cedar, lemon, coffee, musk	60–75 min	$13.44
Juan Lopez Seleccion No. 2	4 7/8″ × 50 (Robusto)	Medium to Full	Cedar, cocoa, pepper, dried fruit	45–55 min	$10.00
Montecristo Double Edmundo	5″ × 54 (Double Robusto)	Full	Espresso, cedar, chocolate, earth	60–75 min	$14.92
Partagas Serie D No. 4	4 7/8″ × 50 (Robusto)	Medium to Full	Leather, cedar, pepper, dark chocolate	60–75 min	$14.30
Punch Double Coronas	7.6″ × 49 (Double Corona)	Medium to Full	Cedar, cherry, leather, cocoa	90–120 min	$14.56
Punch Punch	5.6″ × 46 (Corona Gorda)	Medium to Full	Leather, vanilla, spice, milk chocolate	60–75 min	$8.64
Ramon Allones Specially Selected	4 7/8″ × 50 (Robusto)	Medium to Full	Leather, coffee, cocoa, cinnamon	60–70 min	$9.76
Romeo y Julieta Churchills	7″ × 47 (Churchill)	Medium	Cedar, leather, cocoa, floral spice	90–120 min	$15.48
Trinidad Reyes	4 3/8″ × 40 (Petit Panetela)	Medium	Leather, coconut, vanilla, floral spice	35–45 min	$12.25
Vegas Robaina Unicos	6 1/8″ × 52 (Pyramid)	Medium to Full	Leather, nuts, coffee, dark cocoa	90–120 min	$13.80
Quai d'Orsay Coronas Claro	5 1/2″ × 42 (Corona)	Medium	Tea, honey, floral, caramel, cocoa	30–45 min	$11.20

Selection Criteria

When picking the best cigars under $20, we followed a clear set of rules. All cigars had to deliver strong value and a great smoking experience. We aimed to cover a range of tastes, strengths, and smoking times.

Each cigar on this list was judged the same way. We looked at flavor, construction, burn time, and overall value. Below, you’ll find a detailed breakdown of our selection criteria.

Flavor Profile

First and foremost, we considered the flavor profile. Cigars on our list have a unique combination of flavors that make them unique. We considered the balance and depth of flavors throughout each part of the cigar. Some are looking for something rich or creamy, others want a cigar that's robust and peppery. Thankfully, there’s a cigar on our list to match all palettes. Evaluating the flavor will help determine your overall enjoyment of the cigar.

Construction Quality

A well-constructed cigar burns evenly and holds its ash well. For each cigar on our list, we looked at the wrapper quality, firmness, and roll consistency. This will guarantee a quality smoke every time. Cigar construction is an important aspect of quality evaluation. A poorly constructed cigar can result in a hoard of issues. These include uneven burns, tight draws, and the need for constant relighting.

Burn Time

Sometimes you’re just looking for a quick cigar to light up when you have some time to kill. Other times, you’re searching for a long, luxurious smoking session to unwind. That’s why it’s important to consider a cigar’s overall burn time when making your selection. You’ll find the approximate burn time for each cigar in our list. This ensures you make the right choice to fit in with your lifestyle.

Strength

Next up in our criteria is cigar strength. Not everyone enjoys a heavy hit, especially in casual or daytime settings. This is why we factored both nicotine strength and body (light, medium, full). This helps ensure balance across the selection. Cigars were chosen to offer diversity for smokers. Some are lighter and more easygoing, while others are bold and full-bodied.

Value for Money

Rest assured that every cigar on this list comes in at under $20. There’s no denying that when it comes to premium Cuban cigars, price is a huge factor. Their high quality is reflected in the price point. However, we looked at price-per-inch and overall smoking experience relative to cost. Evaluating quality alongside price ensures you get more satisfaction for your money.

Brand Heritage & Reputation

All the cigars on our list come from good brands with respected heritage and reputation. They’re constructed with the highest quality and craftsmanship. They come from Cohiba, Montecristo, and Hoyo de Monterrey. You’re guaranteed decades of experience, and high-quality production standards. This is true for every smoke on our list.

How to Pick the Best Cigars Under $20

Picking the best cigar under $20 isn’t hard if you know exactly what to look for. Even at this low price point, you can enjoy premium Cuban cigars with rich flavors. Below, we’ve listed the key things to think about before you buy. These include flavor preferences, smoking time, and strength. We also look at construction and matters of timing.

Flavor Preferences

Cigars come in a wide range of flavor profiles. Some of those featured on our list are smooth and creamy. Others are more bold and spicy.

If you like coffee, chocolate, or toasted notes, it's best to look for medium-to-full cigars. Some of these include the Ramon Allones Specially Selected or Montecristo Double Edmundo.

If you prefer something lighter and floral, try the Quai d’Orsay Coronas Claro or H. Upmann Petit Coronas.

Smoking Time

Cigars vary in size and shape, which directly affects how long they’ll last.

Short smokes that last under 30 minutes: Go for smaller formats like Trinidad Reyes or Cohiba Exquisitos.

Medium smokes that last 45–60 minutes: Try a Robusto like Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 or Punch Punch.

Long sessions that last over an hour: Choose larger vitolas like Hoyo de Monterrey Double Coronas or Vegas Robaina Unicos.

There’s no right or wrong smoking time attributed to cigars. Simply pick a size that fits your routine. This could involve a quick break or a relaxed weekend smoke.

Check the Strength

Strength ultimately predicts how bold the cigar feels. This doesn’t just mean nicotine, however. It also involves how intense the flavors come across.

Mild to medium strength cigars are ideal for newer smokers or daytime sessions.

Medium to full-bodied cigars offer deeper flavor and more impact. This makes them great for experienced smokers or evening enjoyment.

If you’re unsure, start mild and work your way up. A stronger cigar may taste great, but it can be overwhelming if you’re a novice.

Look at Construction and Draw

It’s true that poor construction ultimately leads to frustration. This might mean tight draws, tunneling, or uneven burning. This can lead to the smoker spending unnecessary time relighting.

Choose cigars from well-known Cuban brands. These include ones featured on our list like Cohiba, Montecristo, Partagás, or Romeo y Julieta. These tend to have better quality control.

You should also make sure to store cigars in a humidor. This will preferably be kept at 65–70% humidity to keep them in top condition.

Make sure to avoid cigars that feel too soft or too hard before lighting. This is a sign they may be over- or under-filled.

Where You’ll Smoke

Before you light up, think about your environment. Are you smoking indoors or outdoors? While you’re relaxing? Alone or with friends?

For outdoors or social settings, choose cigars with consistent burns. You should also aim for shorter smoking times. Some examples include Punch Punch or Juan Lopez Seleccion No. 2.

If you’re engaging in solo evening sessions or special occasions, there are cigars to suit this too. Opt for cigars with evolving flavors and longer burn time. These include Hoyo de Monterrey Double Coronas or Romeo y Julieta Churchills.

Stick to Reputable Retailers

Buying from trusted sources ensures you get authentic Cuban cigars. Take care to avoid fakes or poorly stored products.

All cigars featured in this guide were selected from Swiss Cuban Cigars. We are a reputable online retailer, with fresh, well-stored stock.

Be wary of deals that look too good to be true. Remember that authentic Cuban cigars have consistent pricing across trusted vendors.

If a price seems unusually low, it may be a fake or poorly stored product. Always buy from reputable sellers who offer authenticity guarantees. The cigars will also be kept in proper storage conditions, and come with customer reviews.

Cigars Worth Every Dollar

You don’t have to spend big to enjoy a premium smoke. This list shows you can find the best cigar under $20 without giving up flavor, quality, or character. Each cigar was chosen for its balance of taste, strength, value, and construction. Some are perfect for beginners. Others suit seasoned smokers looking for complexity on a budget.

All the cigars featured are available from Swiss Cuban Cigars. We are a trusted online shop for authentic Cuban cigars. You’ll also find helpful reviews, recommendations, and cigar smoking tips. These are updated regularly on the website.

We store and ship every order with care, making sure each stick arrives fresh and ready to enjoy.

So, if you're looking for great value without compromise, these cigars are a smart pick. Try one (or two) and discover how far twenty dollars can take you.

16 Best Cigars Under $20 in 2025