Cigarette Lighter Buying Guide

The cigarette lighter was patented in 1889 by German inventor Wilhelm Friese, but it wasn't until the 1920s that it became a standard feature in cars. Today, cigarette lighters are not only used to light tobacco products but also to power various electronic devices. They come in different shapes and sizes, and with different features, making it hard to choose the right one for your needs. This buying guide will help you understand the factors you need to consider before buying a cigarette lighter.

Power Output

The power output of a cigarette lighter is measured in amps or watts. The amount of power you need depends on the electronic device you want to power. For example, a smartphone charger may require 1 amp of power, while a car vacuum cleaner may require 10 amps of power.

Before buying a cigarette lighter, you need to ensure that it has enough power output to meet the requirements of the device you want to power. You should also check the voltage rating of your device since the cigarette lighter is a 12-volt DC power source. If your device requires a higher voltage, you'll need a power inverter to convert the DC voltage to AC voltage.

Number of Ports

Cigarette lighters come with either one, two, or more ports. The number of ports you need depends on the number of devices you want to power. If you're only going to power one device, a single-port cigarette lighter will suffice. However, if you have multiple devices, you'll need a cigarette lighter with multiple ports.

You should also consider the orientation of the ports. Some cigarette lighters have ports that are perpendicular to the lighter, while others have ports that are parallel. If you're going to power a device with a bulky power cord, you may need a cigarette lighter with perpendicular ports since they provide more space for the cords.

USB Ports

USB ports have become common on cigarette lighters since most electronic devices today come with USB cables for charging. If you're going to power a device via USB, you'll need a cigarette lighter with a USB port. Some cigarette lighters have multiple USB ports, allowing you to charge multiple devices simultaneously.

LED Lights

LED lights on cigarette lighters are useful when you're trying to find the lighter socket in the dark. They can also add a touch of style to your car's interior. Some cigarette lighters have LED lights that change color or blink, making them more eye-catching.

Size and Design

The size and design of a cigarette lighter may not be important to some people, but it can be crucial in certain situations. For example, if you're going to plug in a device with a bulky power cord, you'll need a cigarette lighter with a larger diameter to provide more space.

If you're looking to match the cigarette lighter with your car's interior, you'll need to consider the design. Cigarette lighters come in various colors and styles, so you're sure to find one that matches your car's interior.

Price

The price of a cigarette lighter varies depending on the features and quality. Basic models cost between $5 and $10, while models with more features can cost up to $50. If you're going to use the cigarette lighter to power expensive electronic devices, it's worth investing in a high-quality model to avoid damage to your devices.

Conclusion

There are many factors to consider before buying a cigarette lighter, including power output, number of ports, USB ports, LED lights, size and design, and price. Knowing your needs and the requirements of the devices you want to power will help you choose the right cigarette lighter for your needs. With the right cigarette lighter, you'll be able to power your electronic devices and light tobacco products with ease.

Brand and Quality

When it comes to buying a cigarette lighter, the brand and quality are important factors to consider. It's always best to choose a well-known brand that has a good reputation for quality and reliability. This is particularly important if you're going to use the cigarette lighter to power expensive electronic devices.

High-quality cigarette lighters will last longer and are less likely to malfunction or cause damage to your devices. They may cost more upfront, but they're a better investment in the long run. Cheap cigarette lighters may seem like a good deal, but they're more likely to break down or cause damage to your devices. This could end up costing you more money in the long run.

Compatibility with Your Car

Before buying a cigarette lighter, you need to ensure that it's compatible with your car's electrical system. Most cars today have 12-volt DC power outlets, which are compatible with most cigarette lighters. However, some older cars may have 6-volt DC outlets, which are not compatible with modern cigarette lighters.

You should also check the size and shape of the lighter socket in your car. Some car manufacturers use non-standard lighter sockets, which may require an adapter to use a standard cigarette lighter. You should also check the location of the lighter socket and ensure that the cigarette lighter's cord is long enough to reach your device.

Warranty and Customer Support

Finally, you should consider the warranty and customer support offered by the manufacturer. High-quality cigarette lighters usually come with a warranty of at least one year, which covers defects and malfunctions. Some manufacturers also offer extended warranties for an additional fee.

You should also check the manufacturer's customer support. A good manufacturer will have a toll-free customer support number or email address that you can contact if you have any questions or issues with the product. They should also have a good reputation for responding promptly and solving problems effectively.

Conclusion

Buying a cigarette lighter may seem like a simple task, but there are many factors to consider before making a purchase. You should consider the power output, number of ports, USB ports, LED lights, size and design, price, brand and quality, compatibility with your car, warranty, and customer support. By taking these factors into account, you can choose a cigarette lighter that meets your needs and provides reliable power for your electronic devices.