Alright, let's talk about the Lucky Strike Switch. It's a full-flavor SPM cigarette with a "switch" capsule – basically, you can click the filter to go from regular tobacco to a menthol taste, and then roll the filter to boost that coolness. It's a 20-stick pack, each about 85mm long (king size), and I got it for around Rp 20,000. Pretty neat idea for switching things up.
Lucky Strike Switch: The Basics
- Brand: Lucky Strike
- Variant: Switch
- Type: SPM (White Cigarette) - Full Flavor with Switch Capsule
- Key Feature: "Click & Roll" capsule to switch from tobacco to menthol
- Pack Contents: 20 cigarettes
- Size: King Size, approx. 85mm length
- Price (at review): ~Rp 20,000
- Packaging: Black, grey, and dark blue hard box with embossed details.
- Filter: White tipping paper with a blue "power button" marking the capsule.
The Look & Feel
The pack feels solid. It's mostly black with dark blue and grey accents. The logos are embossed, so you can feel the texture. The cigarette itself is white with a grey line and that little blue switch button on the filter. It looks modern and simple.
Smoking It: Two Ways in One
The whole deal is the "Click & Roll" function. Here’s how it went for me.
1. Without Clicking (Full Flavor Mode)
Before you click anything, it's a straight-up full-flavor smoke. I get a rich, savory tobacco taste. It feels earthy, with a natural sweetness and a bit of a spicy kick. The smoke has a noticeable presence in the throat—some might call it a slight harshness or itch—and leaves a savory aftertaste. It reminds me of other Lucky Strikes but a bit lighter due to the filter's perforation.
2. After the "Click & Roll" (Menthol Mode)
You click the blue button on the filter, then roll it between your fingers. This releases and spreads the menthol. The cooling sensation is medium-strength—it's a peppermint-like coolness, not an extreme ice blast. It's actually pretty refreshing and makes the smoke smoother. The throat hit feels softer, and the menthol masks some of the tobacco harshness. The aftertaste is a mix of cool mint and that underlying savory tobacco.
Flavor & Sensation Details
The tobacco blend gives savory, earthy notes. The menthol from the capsule is a clear, peppermint flavor. It’s not overly sweet. I did notice that as the burn gets near the filter, the menthol weakens a bit and a slight chemical taste might come through for some. The smoke duration is around 8-9 minutes.
How It Compares & Who It's For
Compared to older switch cigarettes like the Dunhill Switch (which failed), this one is more affordable and has a more acceptable taste. It’s also different from "boost"-type capsule cigarettes (like Camel Activate) that just intensify an existing menthol. This truly switches from non-menthol to menthol. I feel it's suited for smokers who like variety or want a gentle introduction to menthol without committing to a full menthol cigarette. Some folks in the comments even suggested it as a potential substitute for hard-to-find Marlboro Menthol Light.
Pairing Suggestion
Since it can be savory or minty, I'd pair it with something clean. A cold lager or iced tea works well. Avoid overly sweet drinks that might clash with the tobacco's earthiness.
The Downsides
It’s not perfect. Near the end, the filter can get warm, and the menthol flavor might fade. Some people might feel a tickle in the throat or a "full" feeling after smoking a few. The menthol has a slight artificial note to it, in my opinion.
Final Thoughts & Availability
The Lucky Strike Switch is a clever, versatile cigarette. The "Click & Roll" works as advertised, giving you two distinct experiences. It was found in local shops (*warung*) and Alfamart stores. If you're curious about capsule tech or just want a change from your usual smoke, it's worth a try. Just know it’s a full-flavor SPM at its core, so expect that characteristic strength.