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The Best Zippo Lighter | 2023

Last updated on February 3, 2023

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Our Picks For The Top Zippo Lighters

Show Contents
Our Take
  Top Pick

Zippo All Metal Construction Chrome Lighter

Don't Waste Your Money Seal of Approval

Zippo

All Metal Construction Chrome Lighter

Overall Take

Sleek and SophisticatedThis Zippo lighter has a full chrome look.

  Runner Up

Zippo Windproof Design Brass Lighter

Zippo

Windproof Design Brass Lighter

Overall Take

Pure EleganceThis Zippo lighter has a golden exterior.

  We Also Like

Zippo Color Ice Refillable Lighter

Zippo

Color Ice Refillable Lighter

Overall Take

Bold ChoiceThis Zippo lighter is a bright red color.

  Also Great

Zippo Logo Design Reusable Lighter

Zippo

Logo Design Reusable Lighter

Overall Take

Flashy OptionThis Zippo lighter has a large logo on it.

Guide written by Anam Ahmed
Last updated on February 3, 2023

Zippo lighters are infamous for their quality and reliability. If you’re looking for a classy and functional lighter to have in your pocket, Zippo is an excellent choice. Founded in 1932 by George C. Blaisdell, the company was actually inspired by an Austrian company with a similar product. The name Zippo, it is believed, was derived from the word zipper. Blaisdell wanted to go with something similar and changed the word zipper slightly to get to Zippo.

There are many different Zippo lighters available, so how do you choose the right one for you? Keep in mind that Zippo is known for its quality, so it’s likely any of the Zippo products will be highly reliable and dependable. The lighters are known for being able to light up in harsh environmental conditions, such as high winds, extreme cold and high altitude. Zippo offers product lines for butane lighters, candle lighters, windproof lighters and more, so consider where and how you’ll be using the lighter to determine the one that works best for you.

Regardless of which Zippo lighter you select, keep in mind that it will ship to you empty. The lighters do not come with lighter fluid inside because that cannot be shipped legally or safely. However, you can have the Zippo lighter filled in many convenience stores or cigar shops. Note that some Zippo lighters require premium lighter fluid. Be sure to account for this extra cost when selecting a lighter.

The Best Zippo Lighters

1
  Top Pick

Zippo All Metal Construction Chrome Lighter

This sleek and sophisticated Zippo lighter has a full chrome look. It features a windproof design so it can work anywhere. The lighter does not come filled.

Features


Specifications

Brand
Zippo
Model
2
  Runner Up

Zippo Windproof Design Brass Lighter

This elegant Zippo lighter has a golden exterior. It makes for a great accessory with a formal outfit. The lighter has the distinctive Zippo click.

Features


Specifications

Brand
Zippo
Model
3
  We Also Like

Zippo Color Ice Refillable Lighter

This bold Zippo lighter is a bright red color. It has a windproof design and the distinctive Zippo click. The lighter should be used with premium lighter fluid.

Features


Specifications

Brand
Zippo
Model
4
  Also Great

Zippo Logo Design Reusable Lighter

This flashy Zippo lighter has a large logo on it. The windproof design ensures it can work anywhere. The lighter is made in the USA.

Features


Specifications

Brand
Zippo
Model

Our Zippo Lighter Buying Guide

Zippo lighters are infamous for their quality and reliability. If you’re looking for a classy and functional lighter to have in your pocket, Zippo is an excellent choice. Founded in 1932 by George C. Blaisdell, the company was actually inspired by an Austrian company with a similar product. The name Zippo, it is believed, was derived from the word zipper. Blaisdell wanted to go with something similar and changed the word zipper slightly to get to Zippo.

There are many different Zippo lighters available, so how do you choose the right one for you? Keep in mind that Zippo is known for its quality, so it’s likely any of the Zippo products will be highly reliable and dependable. The lighters are known for being able to light up in harsh environmental conditions, such as high winds, extreme cold and high altitude. Zippo offers product lines for butane lighters, candle lighters, windproof lighters and more, so consider where and how you’ll be using the lighter to determine the one that works best for you.

Regardless of which Zippo lighter you select, keep in mind that it will ship to you empty. The lighters do not come with lighter fluid inside because that cannot be shipped legally or safely. However, you can have the Zippo lighter filled in many convenience stores or cigar shops. Note that some Zippo lighters require premium lighter fluid. Be sure to account for this extra cost when selecting a lighter.

DWYM Fun Fact

Zippo lighters are considered a premium product due their high quality and price tag. However, did you know that there are some Zippo lighters that have sold for record prices – taking the lighter into an entirely different category of goods? For example, an 18-karat gold custom Zippo lighter retails for $12,000. A vintage 1933 model Zippo lighter sold for $18,000 in 2003. In 2007, at the 75th anniversary celebration of the company, Zippo sold a mint condition 1933 model Zippo lighter for more than $37,000. When you consider these prices, the cost of a regular Zippo lighter doesn’t seem like a premium price at all.

The Zippo Lighter Tips and Advice

  • You may be tempted to use something other than lighter fluid to fill up your Zippo lighter, but this is not a good idea. Do not use any other kind of flammable substance in a Zippo lighter other than lighter fluid. Some Zippo fans prefer to only use Zippo branded lighter fluid to ensure it is as high quality as their lighter.
  • The aesthetics are just as important as the functionality when it comes to Zippo lighters. After all, the brand is known for its iconic look as well as its high quality. When selecting a color for the lighter, consider whether you’re looking for something neutral or something bold. If you prefer neutral, go with a chrome, gold or black Zippo lighter. If you prefer bolder options, then choose red, blue, green or pink. While most Zippo lighters come in solid colors, there are also product lines with patterns on the lighters such as rainbows or checkerboard. You can also find two or three-toned Zippo lighters.
  • How do you know your Zippo lighter is authentic? Flip it over and look at the bottom. If it contains a Zippo logo as well as some letters and numbers (which indicate the date it was made), then you know it’s the real deal. If your lighter doesn’t have this stamped on the bottom, it’s possible you have an imposter.
  • If you’re a fan of the Zippo brand or like having personalized things, consider getting your Zippo lighter engraved. This also makes for a great gift. You can engrave the lighter with a name, date or short saying.

About The Author

Anam Ahmed 

Anam Ahmed is a copywriter and essayist based in Toronto. She has been writing on technology, travel, parenting, and business for over 10 years, and works with a number of high-profile organizations. She values finding the best products to make people's lives easier. Anam earned an M.A. from the University of Toronto and a B.A.H. from Queen's University. Learn more at www.anamahmed.ca.