BIC or Clipper, what are the differences?

While BIC looks like an unassailable lighter manufacturer, Clipper remains its main competitor worldwide. A closer look at these two brands and at the differences between their widely sold lighters.

The BIC versus Clipper contest

In one corner: BIC, a French company founded after the war, in 1945. Initially a specialist in pens, it diversified into disposable lighters. The brand quickly became known worldwide and its success has not faded.

In the other, Flamagas, a Spanish company, which went on to make pocket lighters better known as Clippers. Contrary to popular belief, these were the first refillable lighters in the world.

For several years now the contest between BIC and Clipper lighters has been plain to see, even if BIC remains well ahead in sales. Flamagas is still the pioneer of the plastic pocket lighter, refillable from the start. BIC simply launched the same type of product with more marketing and more design work behind it.

The difference between BIC and Clipper lighters

Clipper lighters are known for their durability, thanks to minimal gas consumption. What made their name, though, is that they can be refilled almost indefinitely. They are also robust, and do not break when dropped, unlike other lighters that burst.

For their part, BIC lighters have distinctive designs, sometimes in limited series, and are sold at a highly competitive price. Their flame is adjustable and they now come in mini, classic and maxi versions. There is even a special series aimed at women, with a different design and colour range.

Both brands of lighter are certified, meet a specific set of requirements and comply with the safety standards in force. They are also easy to use and have a child-resistant mechanism.