Is IQOS Better Than Cigarettes?

The smoking world is changing. Traditional cigarettes, long criticized for their health risks, are slowly being replaced or reduced by alternatives like IQOS. But a common question remains: is IQOS better than cigarettes? In this blog post, we’ll explore how IQOS works, compare its health implications with regular smoking, and examine what science and users say about this modern alternative.

What Is IQOS and How Does It Work?
IQOS (I-Quit-Ordinary-Smoking) is a heat-not-burn tobacco product developed by Philip Morris International. Unlike traditional cigarettes that burn tobacco at high temperatures (usually above 600°C), IQOS heats processed tobacco sticks—called HEETS or HeatSticks—to around 350°C.

This heating process generates a nicotine-containing aerosol rather than smoke. The key claim here is that because there is no combustion, fewer harmful chemicals are released compared to cigarette smoke.

Alt Text for Image:
Image showing the difference between a burning cigarette and an IQOS device heating a HEETS stick.

Is IQOS Better Than Cigarettes for Your Health?
When evaluating whether IQOS is better than cigarettes, the first thing most people want to know is the health impact. Cigarette smoke contains thousands of chemicals, including over 70 known carcinogens. By avoiding combustion, IQOS avoids producing many of these harmful substances. You can aswell read this article on How Much Is Tobacco in UK?

What Studies Say
According to data from Philip Morris and a few independent studies:

IQOS emits 90–95% fewer harmful chemicals compared to traditional cigarettes.

IQOS still delivers nicotine, which is highly addictive, but may reduce exposure to toxic compounds linked to cancer and respiratory illness.

A study published in Tobacco Control found reduced biological exposure markers in users who switched from cigarettes to IQOS for 90 days.

However, many health experts urge caution. The World Health Organization (WHO) points out that long-term health data on IQOS is limited. While it might be less harmful than cigarettes, “less harmful” doesn’t mean “safe.”

Nicotine Addiction: Still a Problem
Another angle in answering “is IQOS better than cigarettes” is nicotine addiction. IQOS still delivers roughly the same amount of nicotine as traditional cigarettes. This means:

You’re still addicted.

You’ll still have nicotine withdrawal symptoms if you quit.

It may not help you fully stop smoking—just change the delivery method.

Some experts argue this makes IQOS a harm-reduction tool, not a cessation tool.

Is IQOS Better Than Cigarettes for Your Lungs?

Lung health is one of the primary concerns for smokers and ex-smokers. Because IQOS doesn’t produce smoke or tar, it’s believed to be less harmful to the lungs than cigarettes.

But again, “less harmful” doesn’t equal “harmless.” Heating tobacco still releases volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other substances that can irritate the lungs and airways.

What Doctors Say
Pulmonologists generally agree IQOS may reduce some respiratory symptoms, but it’s not risk-free. One small study showed less coughing and wheezing in people who switched to IQOS, but long-term damage is still possible.

Smell, Secondhand Smoke, and Social Benefits
Aside from health, people often wonder: Is IQOS better than cigarettes in terms of smell and social impact?

Smell and Cleanliness
IQOS doesn’t create ash or strong odors like cigarettes.

Your clothes, hair, and surroundings won’t smell like smoke.

There’s no risk of ash burns on clothing or furniture.

This makes IQOS appealing for those who live in shared housing or smoke indoors. You can also read this article on RYO cigarettes 

Secondhand Exposure
Because there’s no smoke, secondhand exposure to toxins is significantly lower with IQOS. However, it’s not zero. Non-users may still inhale nicotine and other chemicals from the aerosol.

Is IQOS Better Than Cigarettes Environmentally?
Traditional cigarette butts are one of the most littered items globally. They’re non-biodegradable and harmful to marine and wildlife ecosystems.

IQOS does reduce this issue in some ways:

No ashes or butts to flick on the ground.

The HEETS sticks are smaller and more easily disposed of.

However, IQOS uses plastic, batteries, and e-waste components which need responsible disposal and recycling.

So in terms of waste, it might be somewhat better, but it creates different environmental challenges. Visit wikipedia to read more about heated tobacco 

Is IQOS Better Than Cigarettes Financially?
Cost plays a big role in whether people switch. Let’s break it down.

Cigarettes
Cost varies by country but can range from $5 to $20 per pack.

A pack-a-day smoker spends thousands annually.

IQOS
The initial device can cost $80–$120.

HEETS packs are often cheaper than cigarettes, especially in markets where cigarette taxes are high.

Over time, IQOS may be cheaper, but the upfront cost is a factor.

Government and Regulatory Viewpoints
Governments worldwide have different stances on IQOS:

In the United States, the FDA authorized IQOS as a “modified risk tobacco product” (MRTP), recognizing it exposes users to fewer harmful chemicals.

In Europe, regulations differ. Some countries tax IQOS similarly to cigarettes; others treat it as a separate category.

Australia has banned IQOS sales altogether, citing a lack of conclusive safety data.

This diversity shows that the question “is IQOS better than cigarettes” is still being debated at policy levels.

Public Opinion: What Users Say
Many users who switch from smoking to IQOS report:

Improved sense of smell and taste

Less coughing

No lingering smoke odor

Greater social acceptance

But others note that IQOS doesn’t feel quite like smoking and that the device requires frequent cleaning and charging.

IQOS vs E-Cigarettes (Vapes)
To fully understand “is IQOS better than cigarettes,” you should also compare it to vaping:

Feature IQOS E-Cigarettes
Tobacco Used Yes (real tobacco) No (nicotine liquid only)
Smell Tobacco-like Fruity, sweet, or neutral
Health Risk Moderate (less than smoking) Possibly lower
User Experience Closer to smoking More variety in flavors
Regulation Stricter in many countries Varies

Some users find IQOS a more satisfying substitute because of the real tobacco taste, while others prefer the flavor range and lower odor of vapes.

Is IQOS a Good Way to Quit Smoking?
If your goal is to quit smoking entirely, IQOS might help you take a step in that direction, but it is not a cessation product. You’re still using nicotine, and quitting nicotine altogether will still take additional effort.

For long-term success, it’s better to combine IQOS (or any tobacco harm-reduction method) with:

Behavioral therapy

Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT)

Support groups or quitlines

So… Is IQOS Better Than Cigarettes? Final Thoughts
Let’s return to the core question: is IQOS better than cigarettes?

Yes, but with caveats:
IQOS emits fewer harmful chemicals than traditional cigarettes.

Secondhand exposure and odors are reduced.

It may be a useful tool for harm reduction, especially for people who haven’t succeeded with quitting cold turkey.

However:
IQOS is not risk-free and still involves nicotine addiction.

Long-term health data is limited.

It’s not a substitute for quitting all nicotine products.

If you’re a smoker looking for a less harmful alternative, IQOS might be a better option than cigarettes. But if your ultimate goal is better health and financial freedom, quitting nicotine entirely remains the best path.

The decision isn’t black and white—it’s about progress, not perfection. Understand the risks, weigh your options, and choose what fits best for your lifestyle and goals.