Ring gauge is a crucial factor to consider when choosing any cigar. Knowing the differences in cigar ring gauges and how each might affect the smoke, will help to find cigars most suitable for your palate. Learning the cigar ring gauge will also improve your ability to enjoy the finer nuances of the cigar.

Cigar Ring Gauges Explained

A ring gauge is simply the diameter of a cigar measured in inches, with 64/64ths equaling one inch. So, a cigar with a diameter of 43/64ths of an inch, for example, has a ring gauge of 43. So, just remember the larger the ring gauge number, the larger the diameter of the cigar.

A larger ring gauge cigar has more tobacco to deliver greater complexity of taste, while also allowing for a cooler smoke than its smaller counterparts. Cigar makers will generally take this into account when blending a range of sizes to ensure each size is consistent with the series, yet still offers its own unique experience.

Cigar Ring Gauge Chart

Since each range of sizes affects how a cigar will smoke, looking over the various ring gauges will better help to find the perfect smoke to fit your mood.

  • Ring Gauge 20 – 35: Sizes in this range will generally be short to medium in length, providing a quicker smoke, ranging from about 10 to 30 minutes in duration. These are ideal for cigar smokers on the go. Try a Cohiba Exquisitos for a premier example of the joys of smaller smokes.
  • Ring Gauge 36 – 45: This range offers cigars that will generally deliver between 30 to 45 minutes of smoke depending on the length. Connoisseur favorites include the 42-ring gauged Romeo y Julieta Petit Coronas, and the Trinidad Coloniales, a 44-ring gauged classic.
  • Ring Gauge 46 – 54: Cigars in this range make up some of the most popular sizes on the market today, including the classics Robusto, Toro and Churchill. Spark up a Partagas Serie D No. 4 or a Montecristo Double Edmundo for just a taste of the treasures found in this range.
  • Ring Gauge 55 – 60: Cigars with ring gauges over 55 were once only curiosities, yet now are highly sought after for their high level of taste and complexity. Cohiba’s Behike 56 and 58-ring gauged Robustos Supremos Edición Limitada 2014 are two of the finest examples of larger format options.
  • Ring Gauge 61 – 140: Cigars of more than a 60-ring gauge have been on the rise as cigar enthusiasts look for more adventurous ways to enjoy a good smoke. It is not uncommon to find cigars well over an inch in diameter, with 64, 70 and even 80 ring gauges. There is even a 140-ring gauge giant!

Learn Ring Gauges to Enhance Your Cigar Experience

Whether a small cigar with your morning coffee or a 100+ ring gauged behemoth for the ultimate cigar smoking adventure, each ring gauge offers a wholly different experience. No matter the moment, no matter the size, there is a cigar that’s right for you. So, experiment and enjoy! Browse the leading online store for authentic Cuban cigars to find your next smoke.