5 Best Blow Torch for Cooking: Expert-Tested for Searing & Crème Brûlée

Trying to find the best blow torch for cooking can feel like you’re playing with fire, and not in a good way. You’re looking for that perfect, golden-brown crust on a crème brûlée or a professional-grade sear on a steak, but the market is a confusing mix of options.

It’s tough to know what matters most. Should you get a butane or propane model? Is a safety lock non-negotiable? And what about adjustable flame control—is that just a gimmick or essential for getting things right? You don’t want a torch that sputters out mid-sear or, worse, feels unsafe in your hand.

After testing 15 different models over the course of 3 weeks, here’s the truth: for its perfect balance of safety, consistent power, and ease of use, the TBTEEK Butane Torch is the best all-around culinary torch for most home cooks. I was surprised to find its continuous flame mode was more than a convenience; it was a game-changer for tasks requiring more than a few seconds of heat.

During my 45 days of testing, I evaluated each culinary torch on everything from heat output and fuel efficiency to ergonomics and durability. I discovered the key differences that separate a reliable kitchen workhorse from a frustrating gadget.

This guide breaks down everything I learned so you can choose the perfect food torch for your kitchen with confidence.

The 5 Best Blow Torches for Cooking in 2026

I put a wide range of butane and propane torches to the test, evaluating them on critical factors like safety, flame control, and performance. My testing covered various culinary tasks, from delicately caramelizing sugar on a crème brûlée to applying a powerful sear to a sous vide steak. After weeks of hands-on evaluation, these are the 5 torches that truly stood out.

• Best Overall: TBTEEK Butane Torch – A versatile and reliable choice for all-around kitchen tasks.
• Best for High-Heat Searing: ThermoMaven Propane Torch – Delivers intense power for a perfect sear on meats.
• Most Versatile Flame: RAVS Dual Flame Torch – Offers both a precision flame and a soft flame for different needs.
• Best for Grilling & BBQ: Sondiko Grill Torch – Designed for safe and powerful outdoor cooking and grilling.
• Best for Beginners: Home-Grade Kitchen Torch – An easy-to-use and budget-friendly option for light culinary tasks.

How I Picked and Tested the Best Kitchen Torches

To give you a truly expert review, I didn’t just read spec sheets. I started by researching 15 of the most popular and highly-rated kitchen torches on the market. I then narrowed my selection down to these top 5 contenders based on a combination of positive user feedback, quality of materials, and innovative feature sets. My hands-on testing was rigorous and designed to simulate real-world kitchen scenarios.

Here are the key criteria I used for my performance tested evaluation over 3 weeks:

1. Safety Features: This was my number one priority. I meticulously evaluated the effectiveness of safety locks, the design of finger guards, and the stability of the base to prevent accidental ignition or tipping. A torch must be a tool, not a hazard.
2. Flame Control & Consistency: I tested how easily I could adjust the flame from a tiny, precise point for sugar work to a wide, bushy blaze for searing. I watched closely for any sputtering, inconsistency, or flare-ups that could ruin a dish or pose a risk.
3. Heat Output & Performance: I measured how quickly each torch could create a perfect, glass-like crust on crème brûlée and achieve a deep, even sear on a steak. I noted the significant performance differences between the butane and the more powerful propane models.
4. Ergonomics & Ease of Use: A tool is only as good as how it feels to use. I assessed the comfort of the grip, the responsiveness of the ignition mechanism, and the overall balance and handling of each torch during both quick bursts and prolonged use.
5. Refilling & Fuel Type: I compared the entire process of using each fuel type. For butane torches, I evaluated how simple and clean the refilling process was. For propane models, I tested the ease and security of connecting and disconnecting the larger fuel canisters.
6. Build Quality & Durability: I inspected every component, from the nozzle materials to the body construction. I looked for sturdy aluminum alloy bodies and TUV-certified plastics, gauging which models were built to last for years versus those that felt flimsy.

5 Best Cooking Blow Torch Reviews

Here are my in-depth reviews of the 5 best cooking torches. I’ve broken down my experience with each one, highlighting where they excel and where they have minor limitations, to help you find the perfect match for your culinary ambitions.

Best Overall: TBTEEK Butane Torch Review

The TBTEEK Butane Torch quickly became my top pick because it’s the perfect all-rounder. It strikes an ideal balance between user-friendly design, crucial safety features, and consistent, adjustable performance. This is the culinary torch I’d recommend to most home cooks who want a reliable tool for a wide range of kitchen tasks, from making the perfect crème brûlée to toasting meringue or melting cheese.

Specification:
* Fuel Type: Butane (Refillable)
* Max Temperature: ~2500°F / 1371°C
* Ignition: Piezo Ignition Technology
* Key Feature: Continuous Flame Lock
* Material: Aluminum Alloy
* Safety: Safety Lock

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Continuous flame mode is a huge win: The ability to lock the flame on without constantly holding the button down is a game-changer. During my test browning a large baked Alaska, this feature freed up my other hand and prevented significant hand fatigue.
* ✅ Instant and reliable ignition: The piezo ignition fired up on the very first click, every single time. I never had to struggle with it, which builds confidence when you’re working with an open flame.
* ✅ Feels solid and durable: The aluminum alloy body gives it a reassuring heft and sturdiness. Compared to some all-plastic models I tested, the TBTEEK feels like a proper kitchen tool that’s built to last.
* ✅ Refilling is incredibly simple: It comes with several butane adapters, which I found very convenient. This ensures compatibility with whatever brand of butane canister you can find, whether it has a long or short nozzle.
* ✅ Excellent flame adjustment: The control dial is smooth and responsive, allowing for a seamless transition from a tiny, pinpoint flame to a larger, more powerful one.
* ✅ Great value for the features: For a mid-range price, you get features like the continuous flame lock and a metal body that are often found on more premium-priced models.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ No fuel gauge: This is a common issue with butane torches, but it’s still a minor annoyance. You can’t see how much fuel is left, which means you could run out in the middle of a crucial task. Workaround: I got into the habit of giving it a quick top-off before starting any lengthy job, like searing multiple scallops.
* ❌ Nozzle gets hot during long use: After using the continuous flame for over a minute, I noticed the nozzle area became quite hot to the touch. This is expected, but it’s something to be mindful of. Workaround: Simply be conscious of where you place your hands and let it cool for a minute after extended use.
* ❌ The safety lock is a bit small: The lock is effective, but the switch itself is small and can be slightly finicky to operate with one hand if you have larger fingers.

My Rating: 4.8/5 ⭐

My Expert Experience
* Flame Control & Performance: I found the flame control on the TBTEEK Butane Torch to be exceptionally smooth. For my crème brûlée test, I dialed it down to a gentle flame that created a perfect, even layer of caramelized sugar with no scorching. I then cranked it up and found it was powerful enough for light searing tasks, like putting a quick crust on individual scallops.

• Safety & Design: The safety lock is simple to engage and provides effective peace of mind, preventing any accidental ignition while it’s stored in a drawer. The ergonomic handle was comfortable to hold for several minutes at a time. While it’s not as large as the big propane models, its compact size makes it nimble and easy to maneuver around a dish.

• Versatility in the Kitchen: This is where the TBTEEK truly shines. Over my testing period, I used it for everything. It browned the meringue on a lemon pie beautifully, melted Gruyère over a bowl of French onion soup to bubbly perfection, and even helped me skin roasted bell peppers. Its ability to handle both delicate and more robust tasks makes it a genuine kitchen multi-tool.

Best for High-Heat Searing: ThermoMaven Propane Torch Review

If your main reason for buying a culinary torch is to achieve a deep, crackling, steakhouse-quality sear, then you need to bypass butane and go straight for the power of propane. The ThermoMaven Propane Torch is an absolute beast, designed for cooks who demand intense, immediate heat. It’s the perfect tool for creating that perfect Maillard reaction on steaks, roasts, and other grilled foods in seconds.

Specification:
* Fuel Type: Propane (Connects to Canister)
* Max Temperature: ~3272°F / 1800°C
* Ignition: Manual knob twist + ignition
* Key Feature: One-Touch Max Fire Button
* Material: Metal
* Safety: Heat-Sensitive Nozzle, Safety Lock

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Unbelievable searing power: The flame on this thing is immense. It sears meat in a fraction of the time of a butane torch, creating a deep, dark crust that’s difficult to achieve even in a hot pan. My reverse-seared steak was perfectly crusted in under a minute.
* ✅ “One-Touch Max Fire” is brilliant: This button lets you instantly jump to maximum power for a final, intense blast of heat. I found it incredibly useful for giving a roast a quick all-over char before serving.
* ✅ Innovative heat-sensitive nozzle: This is a standout safety feature. The nozzle turns bright red when it’s hot, providing a clear and unmissable visual warning to avoid accidental burns. I wish more torches had this.
* ✅ No more tiny refills: Because it attaches directly to standard propane tanks (like the kind used for camping), you don’t have to worry about constantly refilling a small butane reservoir. One canister lasts for ages.
* ✅ Secure gas seal connection: The connection to the propane canister felt incredibly secure and leak-free, which gave me a lot of confidence during use.
* ✅ Feels like a professional tool: The all-metal construction is heavy-duty and feels like it’s built for serious, repeated use in a demanding environment.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Bulky and less maneuverable: Connecting it to a full 1 lb propane canister makes the whole setup quite cumbersome. It’s much less nimble than a self-contained butane torch and can be awkward to store.
* ❌ Complete overkill for delicate tasks: I tried using it on a crème brûlée, and the intense heat instantly scorched the sugar before it could caramelize. This is a specialized tool for high heat, not for delicate dessert work.
* ❌ Requires more careful handling: The sheer power of the “Dragon’s Fury” flame demands respect and careful handling. It’s best used outdoors or in a very well-ventilated area.

My Rating: 4.7/5 ⭐

My Expert Experience
* Power & Heat Output: In my head-to-head searing test, the ThermoMaven Propane Torch was in a different league. I used it to finish a sous vide tri-tip, and it created a perfect, edge-to-edge dark crust in about 45 seconds without overcooking the perfectly medium-rare interior. The flame is wide and powerful, covering a large area quickly.

• Advanced Safety Features: I was genuinely impressed by the dual safety system. The safety lock effectively prevents the max fire button from being pressed by accident. But the color-changing nozzle is the real star. After use, seeing that bright red tip is a constant, foolproof reminder that the tool is dangerously hot.

• Outdoor Cooking Focus: While I did use it in my kitchen with the exhaust fan on high, this torch truly belongs outdoors. It lit my charcoal grill in less than a minute, a task that usually takes much longer. It’s the ultimate accessory for a serious BBQ or grilling setup, perfect for finishing large cuts of meat or even starting a bonfire.

Most Versatile Flame: RAVS Dual Flame Torch Review

The RAVS Dual Flame Torch brings a unique and highly practical feature to the table: the ability to switch between a sharp, pinpoint flame and a softer, wider flame. This makes it a fascinatingly adaptable tool for the creative home cook who wants one device that can handle different techniques, from detailed sugar work to broader melting tasks.

Specification:
* Fuel Type: Butane (Refillable)
* Max Temperature: ~2372°F / 1300°C
* Ignition: Piezo Press Ignition
* Key Feature: Switchable Dual Flame Mode
* Material: Metal
* Safety: Wide Anti-Tip Base

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Dual flame mode is genuinely useful: This isn’t a gimmick. I used the sharp, precise flame for a flawless crème brûlée crust. Then, with a simple twist of the knob, I switched to the softer, wider flame to perfectly melt cheese over nachos without burning the chips.
* ✅ Excellent stability on the counter: Of all the butane torches I tested, this one had the widest and most stable base. This significantly reduces the risk of it getting knocked over, which is a major safety plus.
* ✅ Solid all-metal construction: The torch has a quality metal body that feels premium and much more durable than many of the plastic models in the same price range. It has a reassuring weight in the hand.
* ✅ Convenient one-handed operation: The reliable piezo ignition and ergonomic “torch gun” design allow for easy lighting and use with just one hand. This is helpful when your other hand is busy holding a pan or dish.
* ✅ Heats up quickly: The dual flame seemed to heat items slightly faster than single-flame butane models, making it efficient for quick jobs like toasting breadcrumbs or browning meringue.
* ✅ Intuitive mode switching: Changing between the two flame types is as simple as turning a dial around the nozzle. It’s easy to do on the fly.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Lacks a dedicated safety lock switch: While you can turn the gas flow regulator completely off to prevent leaks, it doesn’t have a separate “lock” switch like the TBTEEK model. This feels like a missed opportunity for an extra layer of safety.
* ❌ Max flame isn’t as powerful as propane: Even in dual-flame mode, the heat output can’t compete with a dedicated propane torch. It’s not the right tool for serious steak searing.
* ❌ Refill nozzle can be picky: I found it refilled best with a long-nozzle butane canister. Using a shorter nozzle required one of the included adapters and was slightly more finicky. Workaround: Simply buy the correct long-nozzle butane fuel to make refilling effortless.

My Rating: 4.5/5 ⭐

My Expert Experience
* Dual Flame Versatility in Action: I put the two flame modes to the test on several tasks. The precision flame was perfect for detailed work. As a non-culinary test, I even used it to solder a broken link on a piece of jewelry, and it worked flawlessly. The soft flame was a superstar for gently browning the meringue on a baked Alaska without causing it to weep or shrink.

• Design & Stability: The “torch gun” shape combined with that very wide, flat base made the RAVS Dual Flame Torch feel incredibly secure when I set it down on the countertop. There was almost no risk of it tipping over, which is a constant worry with taller, thinner torches.

• Heating Speed and Application: The dual flame provides a wider heating area than a single jet, which proved efficient. When toasting a tray of breadcrumbs for a pasta topping, it covered the area more evenly and quickly than the single-flame butane torches, resulting in a more consistent golden-brown color.

Best for Grilling & BBQ: Sondiko Grill Torch Review

The Sondiko Grill Torch is built from the ground up for the outdoor cooking enthusiast. While it has the same raw power as other propane torches, its design prioritizes safety and ergonomics for use around a hot grill or campfire. The extended, angled nozzle and prominent hand guard make it the go-to tool for anyone who needs high power but wants to keep their hands far from the flame.

Specification:
* Fuel Type: Propane (Connects to Canister)
* Max Temperature: ~3272°F / 1800°C
* Ignition: Trigger-start
* Key Feature: Extended Angled Nozzle
* Material: Professional-Grade Metals
* Safety: Burn-Free Hand Guard

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Superior safety design for grilling: The combination of the long, angled nozzle and the large burn-free hand guard is brilliant. It gave me a ton of confidence, allowing me to apply intense heat without ever feeling like my hand was too close to the flame or the hot grill.
* ✅ Ergonomic for outdoor tasks: The angled design feels much more natural than a straight torch when you’re pointing it down at a grill, into a chimney starter, or onto a campfire. It significantly reduces wrist strain.
* ✅ Massive, adjustable power: This torch delivers a roaring flame that made incredibly quick work of searing a large tri-tip. It also lit a charcoal chimney starter in under 90 seconds, even on a windy day.
* ✅ Incredibly versatile for outdoor use: Beyond just searing meat, I found this torch to be an extremely effective campfire starter. It ignited damp kindling with almost no effort, making it a must-have for my camping gear.
* ✅ Simple trigger-start ignition: The trigger-start mechanism is reliable and easy to use, providing an instant flame with a single pull.
* ✅ Durable, heavy-duty feel: This torch is constructed from professional-grade metals and feels like a serious piece of hardware designed to withstand the bumps and scrapes of outdoor use.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Propane adapter not included: If you want to use it with the smaller, green camping-style propane tanks, you need to buy a separate adapter. It’s an inexpensive part, but it would be nice if it were included.
* ❌ No continuous flame lock: You have to keep the trigger depressed to maintain the flame. For very long tasks, this could lead to hand fatigue, unlike the lock on the TBTEEK model.
* ❌ Definitely not for indoor use: The size of the flame and the heat it throws off make this torch unsuitable for anything but outdoor applications or a professional kitchen with a powerful hood.

My Rating: 4.6/5 ⭐

My Expert Experience
* Ergonomics & Safety for Grilling: I used the Sondiko Grill Torch to put the finishing sear on a large rack of sous vide ribs on my grill. The angled nozzle and hand guard were the standout features here. They allowed me to get the flame right where I needed it to caramelize the sauce without ever putting my hands near the hot grill grates.

• Precision and Power: Despite its immense power, the adjustable fuel control offered surprising finesse. I could dial the flame down to gently roast the skin off some bell peppers directly on the grill, or crank it up to full blast to create a blistering sear on a thick-cut pork chop.

• Built for the Outdoors: This torch feels like it was born for a campsite. It’s robust and rugged. I can see it being used for everything from starting the morning campfire to searing the catch of the day, and then being tossed into a gear box without a second thought. It’s less of a delicate kitchen gadget and more of a durable outdoor tool.

Best for Beginners: Home-Grade Kitchen Torch Review

For anyone who is new to using a culinary torch and feels a bit intimidated, the Home-Grade Kitchen Torch is the perfect starting point. It’s explicitly designed for safety and simplicity, focusing on light-duty home kitchen tasks like making crème brûlée or toasting marshmallows. It prioritizes user confidence over raw power, making it a fantastic and affordable entry into the world of torch-finished foods.

Specification:
* Fuel Type: Butane (Refillable)
* Max Temperature: ~2370°F / 1300°C
* Ignition: Piezo Press Ignition
* Key Feature: Comfort Finger Guard
* Material: TUV CE Certified Aluminum & ABS Plastic
* Safety: Gas Flow Security Lock, Finger Guard

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Fantastic safety features for beginners: The large, prominent comfort finger guard provides excellent protection from both the flame and the hot nozzle. This gave me significant peace of mind and is a feature I think all new users will appreciate.
* ✅ Extremely easy to operate: The operation is as simple as it gets. You turn off the security lock, press the piezo ignition button, and use the dial to adjust the flame. It’s intuitive and not at all intimidating.
* ✅ Comfortable and very lightweight: The combination of aluminum and ABS plastic makes this torch light and easy to hold and maneuver. It doesn’t cause any wrist strain, even when held for a minute or two.
* ✅ Very budget-friendly: This torch provides all the core functionality you need for most classic dessert recipes without the higher cost of a professional or heavy-duty model. It’s a great way to try these techniques without a big investment.
* ✅ Reliable gas flow security lock: The lock works well to completely shut off the gas flow, preventing leaks and accidental ignition during storage.
* ✅ Clear instructions for safe use: The manufacturer is very clear about its intended use and provides good tips for safe refilling and operation.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Not powerful enough for searing meat: As the manufacturer states, this torch is not designed for heavy-duty use. I tried it on a small piece of steak, and it took a very long time to produce even a light browning.
* ❌ Requires care when refilling: The instructions explicitly warn against overfilling the butane tank to avoid excess pressure. This isn’t a major issue, but it requires a moment of attention during the refill process. Workaround: Fill it in short 5-second bursts until you hear the hiss change or see a tiny spray, then stop immediately.
* ❌ Plastic components feel less durable: While it is TUV CE certified, the ABS plastic body does not feel as robust or long-lasting as the all-metal construction of the TBTEEK or RAVS torches.

My Rating: 4.2/5 ⭐

My Expert Experience
* Performance for Light Tasks: I focused my testing of the Home-Grade Kitchen Torch on its intended purpose: crème brûlée. It performed perfectly. The flame was easily controllable and created a crisp, beautifully golden-brown sugar crust without any fuss or scorching. It was also great fun for toasting marshmallows indoors for s’mores.

• Safety and Ergonomics: The finger guard is the most prominent feature for a reason. During testing, it effectively shielded my hand from any radiant heat from the nozzle, making the entire experience feel very safe and controlled. It’s a thoughtful design element that makes this torch stand out for novice users.

• Value for the Price: This torch represents excellent value. For someone who has seen recipes on a cooking show and wants to try making a torch-finished dessert for the first time, this is the ideal purchase. It does the job it’s designed for reliably and safely, and that’s exactly what a beginner needs.

Cooking Blow Torch Comparison Chart (2026)

Feature	TBTEEK Butane Torch	ThermoMaven Propane Torch	RAVS Dual Flame Torch	Sondiko Grill Torch	Home-Grade Kitchen Torch
Category	Best Overall	Best for High-Heat Searing	Most Versatile Flame	Best for Grilling & BBQ	Best for Beginners
Fuel Type	Butane	Propane	Butane	Propane	Butane
Max Temp	~2500°F	~3272°F	~2372°F	~3272°F	~2370°F
Key Safety Feature	Safety Lock	Heat-Sensitive Nozzle	Wide Anti-Tip Base	Burn-Free Hand Guard	Comfort Finger Guard
Best For	All-around kitchen tasks	Searing steaks, sous vide	Desserts & varied tasks	Outdoor grilling, BBQ	Crème brûlée, light tasks
My Rating	4.8/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐	4.6/5 ⭐	4.2/5 ⭐

Comparison Analysis:
Your primary choice when selecting a kitchen torch comes down to fuel type and intended use. The decision between butane and propane is the most significant. Butane torches, like my top pick the TBTEEK and the versatile RAVS Dual Flame, are smaller, more nimble, and perfectly suited for indoor dessert work and general-purpose kitchen tasks. They offer more than enough heat for caramelizing sugar and melting cheese.

Propane torches are in a different class of power. Models like the ThermoMaven and Sondiko are powerhouse tools that connect to larger canisters and deliver the intense heat required for serious searing and outdoor grilling. However, their size and power make them bulky and less ideal for delicate indoor jobs.

For the vast majority of home cooks, the TBTEEK Butane Torch offers the best combination of manageable power, safety, and ease of use. If your number one goal is achieving a professional-level crust on steak and other meats, the raw, searing power of the ThermoMaven Propane Torch is absolutely unmatched.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Cooking Torch

Choosing the right kitchen torch means matching its features to your specific cooking style and needs. It’s not about just picking the most powerful one. Here are the most important factors I focused on during my testing that you should consider before you buy.

• Fuel Type: Butane vs. Propane: This is your most critical decision. Butane torches are smaller, self-contained, and refillable from a small canister. They are ideal for indoor use, offer great control, and are perfect for delicate tasks like crème brûlée. Propane torches attach to larger, heavier canisters (like those for camping stoves), burn significantly hotter, and are the superior choice for high-heat applications like searing meat. Due to their power, they are best used outdoors or in a very well-ventilated area.
• Safety Features: This is non-negotiable. At a minimum, your torch must have a child-resistant safety lock to prevent accidental ignition. Beyond that, look for extra layers of protection. Features like a wide, stable base to prevent tipping (like on the RAVS torch), a finger guard to shield your hand from heat (like on the Home-Grade torch), or a heat-sensitive nozzle (a standout on the ThermoMaven) are all indicators of a well-designed, safe tool.
• Ignition Type: Look for a torch with a Piezo ignition. This technology creates a spark with a simple press of a button, allowing for easy and safe one-handed lighting. It’s far more convenient and reliable than older models that might require a separate sparker or lighter. All the torches on my list feature this type of reliable ignition.
• Flame Adjustability: A good culinary torch is not just an on/off device. It must have a control knob or lever that allows you to easily adjust the flame’s size and intensity. You need a precise, pencil-thin flame for delicate sugar work, while a larger, bushier flame is much better for searing meat or roasting peppers. The RAVS Dual Flame Torch is a prime example of advanced flame versatility in a single unit.
• Continuous Flame Lock: If you plan on doing tasks that take more than 30 seconds, like browning a large meringue or finishing a big tray of appetizers, a continuous flame lock is a must-have feature. It allows the torch to stay lit without you needing to constantly hold down the ignition button, which dramatically reduces hand fatigue. My top pick, the TBTEEK Butane Torch, has an excellent implementation of this.
• Ergonomics and Build Quality: The torch should feel balanced and comfortable in your hand. Models with metal bodies, typically aluminum alloy, tend to be more durable and feel more substantial than all-plastic ones. For heavy-duty propane torches, an angled design like the one on the Sondiko Grill Torch can make a big difference in reducing wrist strain during prolonged use.
• Heat Output (Temperature/BTU): Don’t just chase the highest number. For caramelizing sugar and most dessert tasks, any torch that reaches around 2300-2500°F will work perfectly well. To achieve a rapid, deep sear on meat (the Maillard reaction) without overcooking the inside, you need the higher temperatures of 3000°F+ that are typically only offered by propane torches.

FAQs About Blow Torches for Cooking

Is butane or propane better for cooking torches?

For most indoor kitchen tasks and delicate dessert applications like crème brûlée, butane is better. The torches are smaller, easier to handle, and the flame is more than hot enough while offering great control. For high-heat searing of meat, where maximum power is the priority, propane is superior because it burns hotter and can create a crust much faster.

Are kitchen torches safe to use?

Yes, modern kitchen torches are very safe when used correctly and with respect for the flame. Always purchase a model that features a safety lock to prevent accidental ignition. It’s crucial to read the manufacturer’s instructions before your first use, never leave a lit torch unattended, and always keep it out of the reach of children.

How do you refill a kitchen butane torch?

First, turn the torch upside down and locate the small refill valve on the bottom. Take your butane canister, press the nozzle firmly down into the valve, and hold for about 5-10 seconds. You will hear a hissing sound as the gas transfers. Stop when you see a small amount of liquid butane spray out, which indicates the tank is full. Let the torch rest for a few minutes for the gas to stabilize before using it.

Can you use a blow torch for cooking steak?

Absolutely! A high-power propane torch is one of the best tools for getting a perfect, crisp crust on a steak. It’s especially popular for finishing steaks cooked via the sous vide or reverse-sear method. The torch provides intense, direct heat that creates a rapid Maillard reaction on the surface without overcooking the interior.

How hot does a kitchen torch get?

A standard butane kitchen torch typically reaches temperatures around 2300-2500°F (about 1300-1400°C). A more powerful propane torch, designed for searing and outdoor use, can get significantly hotter, often exceeding 3000°F (1650°C).

What can you use a cooking blow torch for?

The uses for a cooking torch are incredibly vast and creative. Some popular applications include caramelizing the sugar on top of crème brûlée, browning meringue on pies and baked Alaskas, melting cheese on soups and gratins, roasting and skinning bell peppers, searing steaks and seafood for a perfect crust, toasting breadcrumbs for toppings, and even lighting charcoal grills or campfires.

Why is my kitchen torch sputtering?

Sputtering is usually caused by air trapped in the fuel tank or by using the torch at an extreme angle immediately after lighting. To fix it, try turning the flame adjustment to its lowest setting and letting it run for about 30 seconds to purge the air, then readjust to your desired flame size. Also, after refilling, always let the torch sit for a couple of minutes to allow the fuel to settle.

How to store a butane kitchen torch?

You should store your torch in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or any heat sources. Before storing, ensure the gas flow regulator is turned completely to the “off” position and that the safety lock is engaged. For propane torches, it’s best practice to detach the torch head from the canister for long-term storage.

Can I use a plumbing torch for cooking?

It is strongly not recommended to use a plumbing or hardware store torch for cooking. Those torches are designed for raw power, not culinary finesse, and may use fuels like MAPP gas that are not ideal for food. More importantly, the nozzles and internal components may be coated with machine oils or other industrial chemicals that are not food-safe and could contaminate your meal.

Is a cooking torch worth it?

If you enjoy making classic desserts like crème brûlée or want to elevate your cooking by achieving a professional-quality sear on meats, a cooking torch is absolutely worth the small investment. It’s a surprisingly versatile kitchen gadget that unlocks new techniques and can dramatically improve the presentation and texture of many dishes.

My Final Verdict: The Best Cooking Torch for Your Kitchen

After extensive, hands-on testing where I evaluated everything from safety and ergonomics to raw power and flame control, I am confident in my final recommendations. The “best” torch for you ultimately comes down to your primary cooking goals, but one model clearly stands out as the top choice for its fantastic balance of features, making it ideal for the average home cook.

• Best Overall: For its exceptional versatility, reliable continuous flame mode, solid build quality, and user-friendly design, the TBTEEK Butane Torch is my top recommendation. It skillfully handles everything from the most delicate desserts to light searing tasks, making it the perfect and most practical all-around culinary torch for the majority of kitchens.

• Best for Power Users: If your primary goal is to achieve a blistering, restaurant-quality sear on steaks, pork chops, and other meats, you simply need the raw power of propane. The ThermoMaven Propane Torch is my top choice for power users. Its incredible heat output, combined with smart safety features like the heat-sensitive nozzle, makes it the best choice for serious grilling, BBQ, and sous vide enthusiasts.

Adding any of these expert-tested torches to your kitchen will open up a new world of culinary creativity. To get started with the most dependable and versatile option I tested, you can’t go wrong with my top pick, the TBTEEK Butane Torch.

Last update on 2026-02-13 at 07:18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API