Best kitchen torches for 2026
Updated June 2026Independently researchedNo paid placement.
The BonJour Professional Butane Torch, Stainless Steel, 9-Inch is our top pick for most home cooks thanks to its reliable piezo ignition, adjustable flame, and sturdy build.
The Iwatani PRO2 suits professionals who need a high-output workhorse, the Blazer Big Buddy is the no-compromise premium choice for heavy use, and the Cuisinart SmartPower is the ideal budget-friendly starter torch.
A kitchen butane torch is one of those tools that instantly upgrades your cooking, perfect for caramelizing crème brûlée, searing sous-vide steaks, browning meringue, or roasting peppers. But not all torches are created equal: flame control, safety features, refill ease, and build quality vary widely. The best choice depends on how often you torch and what you’re cooking. When shopping, focus on three things: ignition reliability (piezo vs. manual), flame adjustability (a narrow, precise flame for desserts vs. a wider, hotter flame for searing), and ergonomics. A torch that’s too heavy or awkward to handle will gather dust. Also consider refill convenience, most use standard butane canisters, and whether the base is stable enough to sit upright on the counter.
BonJour Professional Butane Torch, Stainless Steel, 9-Inch
the do-it-all default
4.7out of 5A well-balanced torch that combines a comfortable 9-inch reach, a reliable piezo ignition, and a fully adjustable flame. It handles everything from delicate brûlée to quick pepper roasting without fuss. The stainless steel body feels substantial without being unwieldy, and owner reviews consistently praise its durability and ease of use.
Price range: $$
Check price on Amazon →Iwatani PRO2 High Power Butane Torch
the professional’s workhorse
4.5out of 5The Iwatani PRO2 is built for speed and precision. It produces a noticeably hotter, more concentrated flame than most home torches, which means faster searing and caramelization. The all-metal construction feels indestructible, and the angled head improves control over the flame. It’s louder and more aggressive, but that’s exactly what pros need.
Price range: $$$
Check price on Amazon →Blazer Big Buddy High-Output Butane Torch
the no-compromise beast
4.6out of 5The Blazer Big Buddy is a legend in the torch world, built for those who demand raw power and reliability above all else. Its enormous flame can sear a prime rib in seconds or blacken chiles en masse. It’s heavier and pricier than anything else here, and it’s honestly overkill for crème brûlée. But if you need a flame thrower in the kitchen, this is it.
Price range: $$$$
Check price on Amazon →| Award | Model | Our score | Price | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best overall | BonJour Professional Butane Torch, Stainless Steel, 9-Inch | 4.7 / 5 | $$ | Any home cook who wants one versatile torch for desserts, sous-vide finishing, and occasio | Check price → |
| Runner-up | Iwatani PRO2 High Power Butane Torch | 4.5 / 5 | $$$ | Serious home cooks and culinary professionals who torch frequently and need maximum power | Check price → |
| Best value | Blazer Big Buddy High-Output Butane Torch | 4.6 / 5 | $$$$ | Power users who regularly sear large cuts of meat, blacken vegetables, or use the torch fo | Check price → |
| Best for beginners | Cuisinart SmartPower Butane Torch | 4.3 / 5 | $ | Beginners, casual users, and anyone who wants a safe, simple torch for desserts and light | Check price → |
The picks in detail
1. BonJour Professional Butane Torch, Stainless Steel, 9-Inch: the do-it-all default
Best overallA well-balanced torch that combines a comfortable 9-inch reach, a reliable piezo ignition, and a fully adjustable flame. It handles everything from delicate brûlée to quick pepper roasting without fuss. The stainless steel body feels substantial without being unwieldy, and owner reviews consistently praise its durability and ease of use.
Pros
- Comfortable length keeps your hand away from heat
- Reliable piezo ignition that works on the first click
- Adjustable flame from a fine pencil tip to a wide cone
- Sturdy stainless steel construction that resists rust
Cons
- Flame adjustment dial can feel a bit stiff at first
- Requires a separate butane canister for refills
- No lock-on mechanism for continuous flame
Who it’s for
Any home cook who wants one versatile torch for desserts, sous-vide finishing, and occasional charring.Who should skip it
You need a high-output torch for heavy commercial use or prefer a model with a continuous-flame lock.2. Iwatani PRO2 High Power Butane Torch: the professional’s workhorse
Runner-upThe Iwatani PRO2 is built for speed and precision. It produces a noticeably hotter, more concentrated flame than most home torches, which means faster searing and caramelization. The all-metal construction feels indestructible, and the angled head improves control over the flame. It’s louder and more aggressive, but that’s exactly what pros need.
Pros
- Exceptionally high heat output for fast searing
- Angled nozzle design improves hand positioning
- Durable all-metal body that survives daily use
- Easy-to-adjust flame with fine control
Cons
- More expensive than most home torches
- No safety lock or child-resistant mechanism
- Can be overkill for simple dessert torching
Who it’s for
Serious home cooks and culinary professionals who torch frequently and need maximum power in a compact tool.Who should skip it
You only torch occasionally or want a beginner-friendly model with extra safety features.3. Blazer Big Buddy High-Output Butane Torch: the no-compromise beast
Best valueThe Blazer Big Buddy is a legend in the torch world, built for those who demand raw power and reliability above all else. Its enormous flame can sear a prime rib in seconds or blacken chiles en masse. It’s heavier and pricier than anything else here, and it’s honestly overkill for crème brûlée. But if you need a flame thrower in the kitchen, this is it.
Pros
- Extremely high BTU output for rapid, intense heat
- Durable metal construction with a large fuel tank
- Ergonomic trigger-style ignition that feels natural
- Refillable and built to last for years of heavy use
Cons
- Very expensive for a home kitchen tool
- Heavy and bulky, not great for precision work
- Flame is too powerful for delicate desserts
Who it’s for
Power users who regularly sear large cuts of meat, blacken vegetables, or use the torch for outdoor tasks like lighting charcoal.Who should skip it
You primarily make crème brûlée or rarely need more heat than a standard kitchen torch provides.4. Cuisinart SmartPower Butane Torch: the beginner’s best friend
Best for beginnersCuisinart’s SmartPower torch is designed with newcomers in mind: it has a simple on/off switch, a built-in safety lock, and a clear fuel window so you know when to refill. The flame isn’t as powerful as pricier models, but it’s more than adequate for meringue, brûlée, and melting cheese. It’s a solid, safe, and affordable entry point.
Pros
- Built-in safety switch and lock for peace of mind
- Transparent fuel window shows remaining gas level
- Comfortable grip and lightweight design
- Budget-friendly price makes it easy to try torching
Cons
- Lower maximum heat output limits searing ability
- Plastic components feel less durable than metal-bodied torches
- Flame adjustment range is narrower than competing models
Who it’s for
Beginners, casual users, and anyone who wants a safe, simple torch for desserts and light finishing tasks.Who should skip it
You need serious heat for searing meat or want a tool that will survive daily commercial use.Best for specific needs
Best for all-around home cooking
If you need one torch that can move from crème brûlée to sous-vide finishing to roasting peppers, the BonJour Professional Butane Torch delivers the best balance of flame control, build quality, and comfort. Its adjustable flame gives you the precision for desserts and the width for quick searing, all in a well-designed package that won’t tire your hand. Our pick: BonJour Professional Butane Torch, Stainless Steel, 9-Inch.
Best for frequent high-heat searing
When you’re regularly finishing steaks, charring vegetables, or browning meringue in volume, you want a torch that heats fast and holds up. The Iwatani PRO2 offers a noticeably hotter flame than most home torches, with a rugged build that’s made for repeated use. Its angled head also gives you better leverage and control during extended sessions. Our pick: Iwatani PRO2 High Power Butane Torch.
Best for beginners who want safety and simplicity
New torching users can feel intimidated by the open flame, but the Cuisinart SmartPower removes most of that anxiety with its clear safety lock, straightforward switch operation, and visible fuel gauge. It delivers enough heat to excel at classic torch jobs without overwhelming someone who’s still learning fire control. It’s also the most affordable option here. Our pick: Cuisinart SmartPower Butane Torch.
Our verdict
No matter which kitchen torch you choose, remember that butane torches require a bit of practice to master, start on low flame and work up. For most home cooks, the BonJour Professional Butane Torch is the smartest pick: it’s reliable, versatile, and built to last. If your cooking demands more raw power, step up to the Iwatani PRO2. And if you’re just getting started or want to spend very little, the Cuisinart SmartPower is a safe, effective choice that won’t disappoint.