Best Cooking Torches AI pick
Chosen by an AI model from its trained knowledge, with its reasoning.
AI pick: Iwatani CB-TC-PRO2
It screws onto inexpensive butane canisters and gives a broad, adjustable, steady flame for brûlée, meringue and searing.
Not for: Anyone who wants a small, refillable handheld torch to store in a drawer.
AI picks by need
For high-heat searing after sous vide
Bernzomatic TS8000
A propane torch with a very hot flame that sears steaks fast, and the common base for searing attachments.
Not for: Delicate sugar work or indoor use near cabinets.
For compact refillable
Bernzomatic ST2200
A small, refillable butane micro torch, easy to store, for occasional crème brûlée.
Not for: Searing meat or caramelising sugar on many ramekins at once.
What the AI looks for in Cooking Torches
- Fuel type
- Butane canister heads screw onto disposable cooking canisters, micro torches are refilled from a can, and propane torches need cylinders. The fuel type sets the heat output, the running cost and where you can safely use the torch.
- Flame width and control
- Look for an adjustable flame and a broad head for searing; a narrow pinpoint flame is only for sugar work. A narrow flame scorches spots on meat instead of browning the surface evenly.
- Torch taste
- Keep the blue tip of the flame just touching the food, never letting the yellow part touch it. Incomplete combustion leaves a fuel taste on the food.
- Ignition and lock
- Look for push-button piezo ignition with a safety lock. Ignition by match is unsafe, and an unlocked trigger can light by accident.
Brands that matter
- Iwatani: Torch heads that screw onto butane canisters.
- Bernzomatic: Propane torches and butane micro torches.
What to avoid
- Cheap micro torches that sputter or leak during refills
- Using a propane torch for thin sugar crusts