Battle of the Boxes
Cheap Humidors.com 300 Cigar Treasure Dome
Veneer: Amboyne wood; Interior: Spanish cedar; Capacity: 300 cigars; Humidification: Lamsia System (two units); Details: Brass fixtures, lock and key, analog hygrometer, trays, dividers; Cost: $199.99; Contact: (888) 674-8307; Score: B-
Given the name, you might not expect much from this humidor, but the form and look are surprisingly pleasant, with attractive fixtures and countersunk side handles that do not interrupt the shape. The interior is pleasing, with inlaid trim around the hygrometer and humidification system as well as a lattice system on the bottom tray, which allows for humidified air to flow beneath the often overlooked bottom-tier cigars. The box even has a pleasant smell. Upon close inspection, however, the humidor shows signs of fatigue that will likely worsen over time. The fixtures are a bit loose and the interior seams were slightly separated by the end of the test, indicating that the gaps will increase in the future. The humidity levels ran very high, starting at 76 percent, rising as high as 78 percent and dropping only below 72 percent by the sixth week. The analog hygrometer flat out didn't work and stayed at 50 percent throughout the entire test. Although the humidor's performance was less than average, it was rewarded for its size and unbeatable price.