Manchester is one of the most popular value cigarette brands in Australia. Produced under authority from J.S.S. Tobacco Ltd. in London, it offers a quality, consistent smoke at a fraction of the price of premium brands — which matters a lot when a pack of cigarettes in Australia can cost close to $50. This guide covers the full Manchester range, with a close look at the fast-growing Sapphire Blue variant.
Why Smokers Are Switching to Manchester
Australia has the most expensive cigarettes in the world, driven by a federal excise of around $1.25 per stick. That makes value brands like Manchester an obvious choice — and Manchester delivers more than just a low price. The build quality is solid: firm packs, consistent blends, and well-constructed filters that give an even burn every time. It’s also 30–40% cheaper than brands like Marlboro or Dunhill, which is a significant saving over a year.
Manchester Variants Explained
Manchester Sapphire Blue — Smoothest in the Range
Sapphire Blue is Manchester’s ultra-light option and the fastest-growing variant in 2026. It sits at approximately 4–5mg tar and 0.4–0.6mg nicotine, making it one of the mildest cigarettes available in Australia. The draw is clean and smooth with no harshness — ideal as an all-day cigarette for smokers who are sensitive to stronger tobacco. It’s a non-menthol, non-capsule classic format, so what you get is pure, straightforward tobacco taste.
Buy Manchester Sapphire Blue: https://smokcigs.com/product/manchester-sapphire-blue/
Manchester Classic Blue — Everyday Light
The Classic Blue sits a step above Sapphire Blue in strength, at around 6mg tar. It shares the smooth character of the Manchester range but with slightly more body — a reliable everyday cigarette for light to moderate smokers.
Manchester Red / Reserve — Full Strength
The Reserve is Manchester’s boldest variant. It has a deep, earthy tobacco flavour with a noticeable hit — the traditional cigarette for smokers who want real strength. Popular in carton form, especially in regional Queensland and the Northern Territory.
Manchester Blue Crush — Menthol Capsule
Blue Crush features a crush capsule in the filter. Pop it mid-smoke to release a burst of cool mint. A great option for smokers who want the option of menthol without committing to it from the first puff.
Manchester Double Burst — Dual Capsule
Double Burst takes it further with two capsules — typically menthol and berry — that can each be activated separately. Good for smokers who like variety in their flavour throughout the cigarette.
Quick Comparison: All Manchester Variants
| Variant | Tar / Nic | Flavour | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sapphire Blue | 4–5mg / 0.4–0.6mg | Ultra-smooth, clean | Mild, all-day smokers |
| Classic Blue | ~6mg / 0.6mg | Light, smooth | Everyday light smokers |
| Red / Reserve | ~13mg / 1.0mg | Bold, full-bodied | Full-strength preference |
| Blue Crush | ~6mg / 0.6mg | Light + optional menthol | Menthol / capsule smokers |
| Double Burst | ~8mg / 0.8mg | Dual capsule flavour | Variety seekers |
Save More by Buying a Carton
A Manchester carton contains 10 packs of 20 cigarettes (200 total). Buying a carton instead of individual packs saves 10–16% per cigarette — and buying online saves even more compared to convenience stores, which carry the highest markups. If you smoke a pack a day, that saving adds up to hundreds of dollars over a year.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Manchester Blue and Manchester Sapphire Blue?
Classic Blue is a standard light cigarette at around 6mg tar. Sapphire Blue is ultra-light at 4–5mg tar, with a noticeably smoother, cleaner draw. Sapphire Blue is the milder of the two.
Is Manchester Sapphire Blue a menthol cigarette?
No. It’s a classic non-menthol, non-capsule cigarette. For a menthol option in the Manchester range, choose Blue Crush instead.
Can I get Manchester cigarettes delivered anywhere in Australia?
Yes — Manchester is available online with delivery to all states and territories, including NSW, VIC, QLD, WA, SA, TAS, ACT, and NT.
How does Manchester compare to JPS or Peter Jackson?
Manchester is typically 30–40% cheaper than domestic brands like JPS or Peter Jackson, while delivering a comparable quality smoke. It’s one of the best value-for-money options in the Australian market.