Expert: James Yee - 10/20/2008

Question
Dear James,
                     I am a budding cigar aficionado (just starting out) and i am
looking at a 200 count cigar humidor that costs around $420. Do you think
this would be too much money for a first humidor? Thanks!

      Sincerely,
                       Brian Stewart

Answer
Hi Brian,

Beginner humidors usually cost between $100 to $250 but if you feel comfortable spending a certain amount of money on a humidor, that's perfectly fine.  It really depends on the individual and what they feel comfortable spending.  Some cigar smokers prefer a basic, low to medium-quality humidor to start off ($100 to $250 price range) with while some smokers prefer a large medium to high-end humidor ($300-$500 price range).  A good, entry-level, 200-count humidor will usually cost between $200-$300 (USD) so if price is an issue, shop around and I'm sure you'll find a better price for the humidor that you like or another 200-count humidor.

Another important thing to also remember when buying a humidor is to thoroughly inspect the humidor for construction flaws.  Make sure that the humidor has a good seal in the lid and corner joints.  The lid should be heavy and have a good "vacuum" seal when you close it.  The corner joints should be flush and have no gaps or cracks.  If the humidor has an inlay design or a glass-top, the construction seam should be flawless to prevent humidity leaks.

Also, avoid buying humidors with novelty gimmicks or complicated features as they may cause more headaches to maintain than anything else.  Avoid humidors with multiple compartments that may obstruct your cigars and prevent proper humidity aeration.  The hygrometer is usually removeable but many humidors have them in a fixed location.  If it is in a fixed location, make sure that it is in an easy to read location and not obstructed by humidor fixtures and/or compartments that would obstruct humidity flow.  The humidification device should also be in an easy to reach location such as under the lid or at the base of the unit.  Avoid humidors that conceal the humidification device behind compartments or panels as this may obstruct humidity flow.

The humidor should also have a 100% Spanish cedar interior.  Do not buy a low-grade humidor that uses another type of cedar (ie: American Red Cedar) as they may be extremely pungent in aroma and permanently ruin your cigars.  Technically, a humidor (such as laminate or acrylic) can still function without Spanish cedar but you may experience erratic humidity performance and shorter refill times.  Spanish cedar will help absorb and regulate humidity more properly.  Metal components in the humidor such as hinges, handles/knobs and screws should be made from genuine brass so that they do not rust or tarnish.

Hopes this answers your question. If you have any more questions, please feel free to just ask and I will be happy to help.

Regards,
James