Finding a genuine, high-quality pool table for just $200 is virtually impossible—though that doesn’t stop many from trying. Chances are, you’ve encountered one of these makeshift tables: instead of a slate foundation, it’s built on plywood. After about a year, moisture warps the wood, leaving a bowed surface reminiscent of a ship’s hull. As soon as the rack is broken, the balls scatter toward the rails like traders rushing at market close.
The humidor industry mirrors this situation in many ways. Opting for a cheap, entry-level model often leads to regret. On the other hand, choosing a premium humidor provides a reliable environment for your cigars, possibly becoming a cherished heirloom for future generations.
Buying a humidor used to be relatively uncomplicated. The market was dominated by a few established brands, each known for consistent pricing and craftsmanship. Your biggest dilemma might’ve been choosing the finish.
That clarity has long vanished. The explosion in cigar popularity triggered a corresponding surge in humidor production. Virtually every carpenter, woodworker, or hobbyist now offers their version. When Cigar Aficionado first reviewed humidors in Winter 1992/93, there were just 11 models from eight companies. By last August, at the Retail Tobacco Dealers of America trade show, humidor booths surpassed cigar vendors, 105 to 96. Today, humidors are everywhere—from catalog pages and newspaper ads to upscale department store displays. While some newcomers show promise, many fall short of expectations.
To navigate this increasingly saturated market, Cigar Aficionado conducted an in-depth test of 42 desktop humidors, priced between $100 and $2,400. We reached out to manufacturers and importers, requesting models designed to hold 100 cigars. Each was provided with its designated humidification system, standard accessories, and instructions. After seasoning each unit (see “Seasoning a Humidor,” page 367), we stocked them with 10 cigars apiece and kept them under identical conditions in one room for six weeks. We monitored humidity using a consistent digital hygrometer, tracking both internal moisture and the condition of the cigars weekly.
When humidity was too low, we replenished the humidification unit with distilled water. If the environment was overly moist, we added more cigars to help stabilize conditions. Every fluctuation was documented. At the end of the testing period, a panel of editors evaluated each humidor for craftsmanship, visual appeal, functionality, and overall value.
Elie Bleu
Macassar Ebony 100 / $1,350
33-1-48-99-64-64
Capacity: 100
Interior: Spanish cedar
Humidification: Elie Bleu
Details: Includes lock and key, hygrometer, and two dividers
Score: A+
A masterpiece of woodworking, the Elie Bleu humidor impresses with luxurious marquetry and refined exotic veneers. Its only drawback is its compactness—it doesn’t quite fit 100 cigars. Yet what it does hold is maintained in immaculate condition. The adjustable vent humidifier performs flawlessly and demands minimal upkeep. Craftsmanship is exceptional, down to the nearly invisible lid seam and the ornate hygrometer and key. It’s a premium-priced item, but one of unmatched quality.
Bocephus Design
Personal Humidor / $990
(888) 838-1820
Capacity: 75
Interior: Spanish cedar
Humidification: Credo Precision 70
Details: Two dividers, no hygrometer
Score: A
This model stands out visually, with vibrant wood veneers creating an illusion of depth and motion. Meticulous construction ensures a stable environment for cigars. Anticipating the magnet’s failure to hold the Credo unit, the designer crafted a cedar and metal housing to secure it. While functional, the metal grid feels somewhat mismatched. The absence of a hygrometer and lock is noticeable, but it earns bonus points for including clear seasoning instructions. A bold and effective humidor.
Dunhill
Thuya 100 / $1,095
(212) 888-4000
Capacity: 100
Interior: Spanish cedar
Humidification: Dunhill
Details: Lock and two keys, two dividers, no hygrometer
Score: A
Crafted from rare woods with a leopard-spot pattern, the Dunhill Thuya offers visual drama and robust construction. Its lid could benefit from a tighter seal, and the cigar capacity is a bit optimistic. The humidifier, while novel, requires dexterity during refills—balancing and squeezing distilled water into minute openings. Nonetheless, it kept cigars in ideal shape with just one refill. A durable and distinctive piece.
Davidoff
No. 2 Natural Mahogany / $2,400
(203) 323-5811
Capacity: 100
Interior: Gaboon wood
Humidification: Davidoff (dual units)
Details: Three adjustable dividers, removable tray with three more dividers, no hygrometer, lock and key, water bottle
Score: A-
This model combines elegance with precision engineering. Every component—from the seamless lid to the adjustable dividers—is crafted with exacting attention to detail. The dual-unit humidification system is top-tier, though the Gaboon interior doesn’t absorb moisture as quickly as cedar, so keeping a stock of at least 20 cigars is recommended. Extras include a refill marker and magnetic cutter storage. Pricey, but exceptional.
Michel Perrenoud
100 Cigar Humidor in Elm Burl / $2,300
(201) 778-1194
Capacity: 100
Interior: Finished sealed mahogany
Humidification: Michel Perrenoud
Details: Includes tray, six dividers, lock and key
Score: A-
This low-profile, broad humidor features a rich elm burl exterior that instantly draws attention. Unlike many, its stated capacity is accurate, comfortably fitting 100 cigars. The layout allows for easy organization, appealing to collectors with varied preferences. Its humidification system is low maintenance and efficient. However, the finished mahogany interior may not appeal to traditionalists who prefer Spanish cedar. A standout option for those seeking form and function.
Daniel Marshall
Ambiente / $445
(800) 923-2889
Capacity: 125
Interior: Spanish cedar
Humidification: Daniel Marshall
Details: Hygrometer, brass plaque, two dividers, magnetic calendar, water bottle, five Daniel Marshall cigars
Score: B+ Best Buy
The Ambiente blends practical design with affordability, making it an excellent value. Though its finish doesn’t rival high-end models, its performance is consistently strong. It includes several thoughtful extras—like a refill reminder calendar and an elegant hygrometer—plus a small sampler of cigars. While not flawless, the combination of price and quality makes it an outstanding choice for budget-conscious buyers.
Michael Dixon
C Model Bubinga / $1,000
(301) 432-6131
Capacity: 75–100
Interior: Spanish cedar
Humidification: Humigar Moistener
Details: Hygrometer, two dividers, water bottle
Score: B+
With intricate inlays and a rich finish, this humidor has a compelling look. That said, some veneer work appears slightly rough, and the interior is fairly basic. The included hygrometer is functional but lacks visual appeal. Humidity levels fluctuated initially but stabilized after the first refill. Replacing the four small base pads with full felt would improve stability. Not among the elite, but a reliable and attractive option.
S.T. Dupont
Macassar Ebony / $635
(800) 341-7003
Capacity: 25
Interior: Unfinished mahogany
Humidification: Credo Rondo
Details: Hygrometer, one divider
Score: B+ (preliminary)
Elegant and sophisticated, this item showcases impressive craftsmanship. The joints align flawlessly, and the lid integrates seamlessly with the rest of the structure. It features an eye-catching contrast, with light-toned beveled wood edges offsetting the dominant dark wood finish. However, the humidification could be more robust—while the Credo Rondo suffices for a container this size, it demands bi-monthly refills. We received the S.T. Dupont unit late due to supply issues and thus couldn’t thoroughly assess its humidification performance. Additionally, the model shipped to us was smaller than what we had ordered. Our current evaluation is tentative.
Club Imports
American Troubador HAT-42 Pomele Burl/$590
(800) 292-CLUB
Capacity: 125
Interior: Spanish cedar
Humidification: Credo Epsilon
Features: Two movable dividers, analog hygrometer, locking mechanism with key
Score: B
Although not visually striking or innovative, this rectangular humidor excels in function and design logic. The movable dividers remain securely in place but are easy to adjust. The lid opens smoothly thanks to well-set hinges, reducing pressure on the structure. The Credo Epsilon maintains an ideal environment for the cigars. Throughout the test, the cigars remained supple and well-preserved. At this price point, the American Troubador is a solid investment.
Diamond Crown
Biltmore/$625
(800) 477-1884
Capacity: 100
Interior: Spanish cedar
Humidification: Credo Precision 70
Features: Two dividers, a tray with two more dividers, analog hygrometer, lock and key
Score: B
The Biltmore features a beveled lid and routed front panel that give it a refined look. Inside, the tray is well organized and emits a light cedar scent that’s not too strong. However, the magnet designed to hold the Credo humidifier in place proved unreliable—it repeatedly dislodged and fell into the tray. Although the humidifier had to be refilled twice during testing, the cigars were well-maintained. Aside from the flawed magnet and minor finish imperfections, this humidor offers great value for the price.
John Christopher
RM150/$995
(800) 704-4367
Capacity: 150
Interior: Spanish cedar
Humidification: Dual Credo Precision 70 Gold units
Features: Tray, four dividers, water bottle, locking system with key, optional hygrometer or cigar scissors
Score: B
This humidor embodies traditional elegance with solid construction. Its two humidifiers provide ample moisture for a box of this capacity, and their wooden housings add a refined touch. The tray, while functional, feels a bit unstable, and the leather handles seem mismatched with the overall aesthetic. If given the choice, opt for the hygrometer over the scissors—the ones provided were dull and low-quality. Despite these minor issues, humidity remained nearly perfect throughout the test. It’s a dependable home for your cigars.
Triade
Amboyna/$1,190
33-78-73-10-79
Capacity: 100
Interior: Mahogany
Humidification: Credo Precision 70
Features: Lock and key, two dividers, hygrometer
Score: B
With its striking marquetry, the Triade balances modern flair with classic sensibilities. The interior is neatly finished but relatively simple and falls short of holding the advertised 100 cigars—50 is more realistic. The lid doesn’t align as precisely as it should, and the humidifier’s magnet detached multiple times. Nonetheless, it maintained exceptional humidity levels—the best of any model tested. Though not without flaws, it performs exceptionally well. For its price, however, the construction quality should be improved.
Prometheus
(made by Triade)
H-Verts/100 Amboyna Burl/$1,240
(800) 229-5233
Capacity: 100
Interior: Mahogany
Humidification: Credo Precision 70
Features: Lock with two keys, two dividers, hygrometer
Score: B
Identical to the Triade model in design and performance, the only notable difference is the price. Unlike the Triade, the humidifier stayed firmly in place during testing.
C.A.O.
Executive/$849.95
(800) BEST-CAO
Capacity: 200
Interior: Spanish cedar (tray system)
Humidification: Dual C.A.O. regulators
Features: Hygrometer, three-tier tray system
Score: B-
This classic-style humidor could benefit from a heavier, sturdier lid. At times, lifting the lid also raised the entire tray system, which should be addressed. The exterior is somewhat lackluster, although the interior has more visual appeal. The two humidifiers—compatible with tap or distilled water—provided adequate humidity. Initially, cigars were slightly over-humidified, but the issue resolved itself. The standout feature is the multi-level Spanish cedar tray, especially the concealed bottom layer—ideal for storing premium cigars.
Heritage Humidors
HH120 African Padauk/$895
(313) 669-8868
Capacity: 120 cigars
Interior: Spanish cedar
Humidification: Cigar Keeper
Features: One movable divider, tray, analog hygrometer
Score: B-
Built for durability, this traditionally styled humidor has a distinctive raised lid that lends a jewelry box feel. Routed side grips are its only decorative element. Internally, it boasts robust joinery and strong hinges. The analog hygrometer, mounted in matching wood, was reasonably accurate. Two key issues reduced its score: persistent over-humidity and a lid that doesn’t sit flush unless locked, and even then, not perfectly.
House of Lords
Monarch/$750
(800) 632-2228
Capacity: 100
Interior: Spanish cedar
Humidification: Credo Precision 70
Features: Two movable dividers, tray, analog hygrometer, lock and key
Score: B-
The only leather-clad humidor in the lineup, this piece maintained cigars fairly well but had structural concerns. Toward the end of the testing phase, the cedar lining began to split. One divider fit snugly, while the other was loose. Additionally, the included key did not fit properly and seemed mismatched with the design.
Humidif
601 Black Walnut/$290
(800) 783-3481
Capacity: 35-50
Interior: White cedar
Humidification: Humidif Accurate System
Features: One adjustable divider, analog hygrometer
Score: B-
Though modest in appearance, this compact humidor offers great value. The walnut veneer shows some cloudiness, and the divider is little more than an unpolished cedar plank. Still, it’s sturdily built, with quality hardware, and effectively maintained the cigars. A reasonable choice for those on a budget.
Island Humidors
Standard C Series South American Rosewood/$460
(718) 966-5616
Capacity: 75-100
Interior: Solid Spanish cedar
Humidification: Hydromist Humidity Control System
Features: Two adjustable dividers, no hygrometer
Score: B-
This simple yet well-sealed humidor preserved cigars excellently, but a lingering adhesive scent initially affected their flavor. The odor dissipated eventually, but it’s best to let it air out for several weeks before use. The joints are tight and the lid fits closely, but the hinges may wear under frequent use. The base has minimal felt padding—only one patch per corner—leaving it vulnerable to movement.
John W. Goff Designs
Regency Collection Grand Windsor/$1,400
(800) 923-1950
Capacity: 100
Interior: Spanish cedar
Humidification: Credo Epsilon
Features: Tray, two dividers, no hygrometer
Score: B-
The rich, dark wood veneer looks appealing, though it doesn’t quite match the elegance of top-tier models. The interior is sparse—lacking a hygrometer and with a bare humidifier setup. The contrasting black trim along the lid edge appears poorly executed. However, there are innovative features worth noting, such as the exceptionally smooth hinge design. The tray’s ornate I-shaped dividers are well-fitted, but the lack of ventilation in the thick tray may have caused slight dryness in some cigars.
By Design
Centurian/$850
(800) 278-6112
Capacity: 100
Interior: Red Spanish cedar
Humidification: Credo Precision 70
Features: Combined hygrometer/thermometer, three dividers
Score: C+
More reminiscent of a metal storage box than a premium humidor, the Centurian has a no-frills, utilitarian look. Craftsmanship could be better—by the end of testing, one lid joint was visibly separating. The interior emits a strong aroma that might overwhelm cigar flavors. The lid doesn’t sit perfectly, and the internal space feels bare. However, this is one of the few models with detailed seasoning guidelines, and it maintained humidity effectively. A basic but functional unit with limited visual appeal.
Catina
Classico “Steinway” / $900
(910) 274-8810
Capacity: 100
Interior: Spanish cedar
Humidification: Western Humidor Humifier 2000
Features: Two dividers, adjustable hygrometer
Rating: C+
The outer layer of this humidor has visual appeal, though it’s not flawless. The lid operates on basic, roughly constructed hinges and feels unstable when opened. While the interior corners crafted from Spanish cedar align neatly and are finished cleanly, the rest of the inside lacks aesthetic refinement. A plain humidification unit is paired with an unsightly hygrometer, and the branding appears as an afterthought. The humidifier emits too much moisture, rendering cigars overly soft. Adding more cigars slightly alleviated the issue. Overall, this humidor struggles with humidity regulation and requires continuous monitoring to prevent oversaturation.
Heirloom
(a division of On Display)
XLHC / $750
(804) 231-1942
Capacity: 100
Interior: Spanish cedar
Humidification: Credo Precision 70
Features: Hygrometer, lift-out tray, lock and key
Rating: C+
This box is minimalistic in both construction and design. The exterior, though slightly refined, lacks distinctive character. The build quality is solid — the lid aligns properly, and the joints are smoothly assembled. With its decent cigar capacity and useful tray and lock (despite the lock’s gaudy appearance), it shows potential. However, the humidification system is underpowered, as the cigars remained dry throughout the test. An upgraded unit would improve performance significantly.
Caribe
Classico 50 / $229
(800) 367-0782
Capacity: 50
Interior: Spanish cedar
Humidification: Credo Rondo
Features: Analog hygrometer
Rating: C
Despite its simplicity, this humidor proved effective overall. However, the magnet securing the humidifier repeatedly detached from the lid. The cherry wood finish is attractive but generic, and the lid alignment is inconsistent. Its boxy design restricts cigar length to under eight inches. Nonetheless, the build feels sturdy. For those seeking an affordable and functional option, this humidor could be a worthy choice.
Controlled Environments Cigar Humidors
All Terrain Humidor / $129
(800) 876-8789
Capacity: 125
Interior: Spanish cedar
Humidification: CedarBag with polymer crystals
Features: Two dividers, no hygrometer
Rating: C
The All Terrain Humidor (ATH) stands out with its unconventional approach — essentially a retrofitted ammunition box lined with cedar. The internal dividers force vertical cigar storage, reducing usability. Removing them increases capacity and helps preserve cigars better. The included polymer-filled humidification sack emits excessive moisture in this airtight container, necessitating frequent opening to avoid stale air or mold. Although not suitable for long-term storage, the ATH’s spaciousness makes it ideal for travel or group use on trips.
Heirloom Perfect
The Coffer Walnut Burl / $1,895
(813) 462-8078
Capacity: 125
Interior: Spanish cedar
Humidification: Credo Epsilon
Features: One movable divider, tray with adjustable divider, Western digital hygrometer
Rating: C
Though ambitious in concept, this humidor falls short in execution. The cleverly concealed hinges groan during use, revealing calibration issues. The coffin-like lid houses slots for the humidifier and hygrometer, but the placement partially obstructs the humidification unit. The unit maintained ideal cigar conditions, but for such a high price, the construction flaws are disappointing.
Humidors by Design
Sapele 2110-019 / $750
(208) 939-4988
Capacity: 125
Interior: Honduras mahogany
Humidification: Credo Epsilon
Features: Tray, four dividers, lock with two keys, brass side handles
Rating: C
(Note: Not affiliated with By Design.)
Featuring a traditional, rough-hewn aesthetic with large dovetail joints, this humidor feels exceptionally durable — and correspondingly heavy. The interior lid is plain, adorned solely with a humidifier. The tray, made of unfinished mahogany, swelled during testing and was difficult to remove. Though the humidity hovered near ideal levels, cigars at the bottom were noticeably drier, suggesting poor air circulation inside.
Kohaut
175 / $410
(702) 588-8456
Capacity: 75
Interior: Spanish cedar
Humidification: The Ultimate Cigar Protector
Features: Removable divider, tray with fixed divider, analog hygrometer
Rating: C
This walnut-finished humidor features dovetail joints but suffers from inconsistent grain patterns on the lid. Internally, the cedar insert has uneven joints, and the tray construction appears flimsy. While the humidifier is securely mounted via a plastic strip, the overall performance was subpar, with cigars remaining just barely smokeable throughout testing.
Mom’s Cigars
Mark 100 / $295
(800) 831-8893
Capacity: 100
Interior: Spanish cedar
Humidification: Credo Precision 70
Features: Two adjustable dividers, no hygrometer
Rating: C
Crafted from mahogany, this rustic humidor might have fared better if the humidifier stayed in place. Instead, it routinely fell onto the cigars, though this can be resolved by securing a mount inside the lid. While the overall build is decent, the included hardware looks cheap. It’s a case of moderate quality matching a modest price.
Norman Kosarin Designs For Your Smoking Pleasure
Wooden 50 Cigar Humidor / $890
(212) 319-0069
Capacity: 50
Interior: Spanish cedar
Humidification: Credo Rondo
Features: Loose hygrometer, single divider, lock and key
Rating: C
This compact humidor has a charming appearance with a refined traditional veneer and well-fitted joints. However, it’s very lightweight, and its small humidifier doesn’t provide sufficient moisture, even after repeated refills. The unmounted hygrometer and lack of setup instructions add to the frustration. The lid is stiff and takes force to close and lock. Overall, the product doesn’t justify its premium price.
Prestige Wood Specialties
Prestige X / $335
(800) 524-5024
Capacity: 70
Interior: Spanish cedar
Humidification: Credo Precision 70
Features: Two adjustable dividers, analog hygrometer
Rating: C
This model delivers adequate humidification but stumbles in other areas. The exterior has a homemade aesthetic, and the cedar insert is splintered in places. The lid’s limited opening angle adds inconvenience. Nevertheless, some thoughtful features, like snug-fitting dividers and inset hinges, prevent it from ranking lower.
Savinelli
Mahogany Tobacco Leaf / $700
(919) 481-0511
Capacity: 75
Interior: Rosewood
Humidification: Two Credo Rondo units
Features: Hygrometer, two dividers
Rating: C
Visually striking, this humidor has a significant flaw — a persistent odor from glue or varnish that permeated the cigars. Despite excellent moisture retention from the dual humidifiers, the chemical scent rendered the cigars unsmokable. This is unfortunate, as the craftsmanship and finish were otherwise excellent. Prospective buyers should inspect the interior aroma before purchase.
Siboney
Smoked Walnut Burl / $720
(305) 262-3775
Capacity: 100
Interior: Spanish cedar
Humidification: Credo Epsilon
Features: Two dividers, analog hygrometer
Rating: C
This elegant humidor features a dramatic dark finish with swirling grain patterns. Unfortunately, structural issues diminish its appeal — the lid doesn’t close flush, and during testing, the front veneer began to peel. Internally, the dividers are unstable, glue is visible, and high humidity made cigars mushy early on, though it did stabilize eventually.
Western Humidor
Series 1000-T / $580
(800) 776-0096
Capacity: 100 cigars
Interior: Spanish cedar
Humidification: Western Humidor Humifier 2000
Features: Two adjustable dividers, tray with two adjustable dividers, Western digital hygrometer
Rating: C
This humidor offers solid performance in terms of space and moisture management. It features a comprehensive interior setup with several dividers and a digital hygrometer. Despite this, it didn’t stand out among competitors due to its average construction and unremarkable design.
This humidor offers considerable storage capacity for its cost. It’s noticeably more spacious than many models marketed to hold 100 cigars. According to Western’s materials, it caters to enthusiasts who favor larger cigars. However, the built-in humidification system underperforms. During our six-week evaluation, we had to replenish the water supply three times. While the craftsmanship is solid overall, the finer details fall short. The digital hygrometer is lazily attached with Velcro, and the tray bears smudges that resemble ink stains, poorly fitted into place.
Desk Pro Inc.
Woodmere/$420
(800) 920-3375
Capacity: 125
Interior: Aromatic Cedar
Humidification: Accurate 70 (two units)
Features: Two movable dividers, analog hygrometer
Rating: C-
This humidor is garish in design and lacks build quality. By the end of testing, the lid showed signs of structural failure at the joints. The outer finish is cloudy and unrefined. However, there is a silver lining: a thoughtfully arranged compartment inside the lid holds both humidifiers and the hygrometer, which managed to keep the cigars in acceptable condition.
John Snedeker Woodworking
Monterrey H300 Macassar Ebony/$830
(803) 722-6411
Capacity: 75-100
Interior: Spanish cedar
Humidification: Western Humidor Humidifier 2000
Features: Two adjustable dividers, locking mechanism, analog hygrometer
Rating: C-
This humidor boasts attractive mahogany construction, but fails in its primary function. Humidity levels surged past the ideal 70–72%, resulting in moldy cigars and an unpleasantly damp smoking experience. Adding more cigars didn’t mitigate the problem. Despite the appealing marbled exterior and respectable craftsmanship, the interior performance renders it unusable.
Caribbean Cigar
Cuban Craftsman Cove Inlay/$199
(305) 267-3911
Capacity: 100
Interior: Spanish cedar
Humidification: Credo Epsilon
Features: Lacks hygrometer and dividers
Rating: D+
This lightweight humidor feels like an oversized cigar box. Although constructed from solid Spanish cedar, the lid requires significant pressure to seal. While the joint work is adequate, it’s coarse and suggests limited durability. The humidification device would not adhere to the lid, requiring two refills during testing. Nonetheless, it kept the cigars reasonably well. A bare-bones, high-maintenance solution with just enough performance to get by.
Abbey Cigar Products
AEH50 Oak/$100
(800) 663-8768
Capacity: 50
Interior: Red cedar
Humidification: HumiStor
Features: No hygrometer
Rating: D
This is as basic as humidors get. It lacks embellishments and does not come equipped with either a hygrometer or internal dividers. Although it just about preserved the cigars’ smokability, the humidity remained slightly below optimal levels. The red cedar interior has a potent aroma that may eventually affect the cigars’ flavor.
Cigar Essentials
Alente 100/$575
(519) 473-7905
Capacity: 100
Interior: Brazilian mahogany
Humidification: Humi Pak
Features: Two dividers
Rating: D
The Alente features a plain design with a roughly applied paint finish on the exterior and a stark, unadorned interior. The construction poses serious usability issues: opening the lid requires considerable effort, and one hinge failed completely by the end of the trial. Even before the break, the lid didn’t close properly, leaving a persistent gap. Throughout the test, humidity levels remained too high, resulting in over-saturated cigars. Doubling the cigar load helped slightly, but not enough. This humidor falls far short of what’s needed for serious storage.
Decatur Industries
#1000/$450
(800) 556-7111
Capacity: 100
Interior: Spanish cedar
Humidification: Decatur Industries
Features: Hygrometer, thermometer, routed tray, one divider
Rating: D
This unit has critical flaws that undermine its usability. The plastic humidification system with faux wood accents is aesthetically and functionally disappointing, unable to maintain even a baseline level of humidity. Cigars on the top tray were mildly dry; those below, worse. Despite efforts, humidity never exceeded 65% and sometimes dropped below 60%. The construction is riddled with weak hinges, cheap handles, and jagged cedar inserts. The tray design, while distinctive, reduces overall storage space. With proper humidification, this could be passable—but as is, it fails.
Extraordinary Humidor
B100/$1,500–$1,600
(714) 366-0290
Capacity: 100
Interior: Spanish cedar
Humidification: Credo Precision 70
Features: Hygrometer, tray, two dividers, lock and key
Rating: D
Constructed from solid exotic woods rather than veneers, this humidor is strikingly heavy and visually stunning. The lid, crafted from Afzelia burl sourced from Laos, is a work of art. Sadly, beauty isn’t enough. By the end of testing, structural integrity had deteriorated, with visible gaps forming at the joints. The interior is poorly finished, and the dividers fit awkwardly. The core issue is over-humidification. Despite doubling the cigar quantity to absorb moisture, humidity consistently stayed too high, even causing cigars to split. As furniture, it’s exquisite. As a humidor, it’s a letdown.
Wellington Humidor (Almar International)
Beaverbrook Rosewood/$190
(800) 646-8834
Capacity: 75
Interior: Spanish cedar
Humidification: Almar #88 Humidity Regulator
Features: Hygrometer, one divider
Rating: D
While this model maintained cigar quality with a single refill, its build quality leaves much to be desired. The painted finish is uneven and rough. The hinges feel fragile and prone to snapping. Inside, the hygrometer and humidifier dangle loosely from a warped piece of cedar that is detaching. Felt pads meant to secure the divider fell off mid-test. Exposed gaps in the joints and rough edges that might cause splinters speak volumes: this is an inexpensive unit, and it shows.
G.A. Andron
La Flor de la Isabela/$110
(800) 221-1634
Capacity: 50
Interior: Mahogany
Humidification: Tray with a square white foam insert
Features: Two fixed dividers, tray, hygrometer
Rating: D-
This light-toned mahogany box performs as poorly as it looks. Even at its modest price, it’s not worth it. The makeshift humidification—a simple sponge resting in a lucite tray—proved ineffective, with cigars drying out despite weekly water additions. The lid opens awkwardly far, tipping the box backward, and it refuses to stay shut. Bottom line: you get what you pay for, and in this case, very little.
David Savona serves as senior editor at Cigar Insider, Marvin Shanken’s monthly publication. Brendan Vaughan is assistant editor at Cigar Insider and oversees online services for Cigar Aficionado.
Preparing Your Humidor
Seasoning a humidor takes a careful approach and cannot be rushed. The goal is to simulate the warm, humid conditions of the regions where cigars are made. Introducing cigars to a dry environment can spoil them permanently.
Most humidors are lined with untreated Spanish cedar, prized for its humidity-regulating and aroma-enhancing qualities. Before use, the interior must be properly humidified. (Some exceptions exist, such as Michel Perrenoud humidors, which feature finished interiors that skip this step.)
Begin with a clean, scent-free sponge saturated with distilled water. Use it to gently wipe all cedar surfaces—walls, trays, dividers, and the inside of the lid. Avoid paper towels or fuzzy cloths, which can leave residue. After wiping, place the damp sponge inside the humidor on top of a plastic barrier to prevent wood contact, and close the lid.
Next, prepare the humidification unit as directed by the manufacturer. Unless specified otherwise, always use distilled water—tap water contains minerals that can damage humidifiers. Once filled, remove any excess water and let the unit rest on a towel for about 30 minutes.
Place the humidifier and sponge inside the closed humidor and leave it overnight. The next day, assess the humidity source. If the sponge is dry, add more distilled water; if still damp, no action is needed. Repeat this process until the environment is properly conditioned.
Allow the humidor to rest for an additional night before taking out the sponge and the plastic covering. By this point, the interior walls will have fully absorbed the necessary moisture. Your humidor is now properly conditioned and ready to preserve your cigars in optimal conditions. –DS
