Gudang Garam International vs Camel Blue: Which Kretek Fits You?

Quick answer

Choose Gudang Garam International if you want a clove-forward kretek with a smaller 12-stick pack and lower upfront cost; choose Camel Blue if you prefer a smooth, regular tobacco blend and don't mind paying more for a larger pack. Neither is objectively better—it depends on whether you want clove flavor or a classic cigarette profile.

Clove vs regular tobacco: the core difference

The most important distinction is flavor. Gudang Garam International is a kretek, meaning it contains cloves, which give it a distinct, aromatic taste. Camel Blue is a regular cigarette made from a blend of tobaccos with no cloves, offering a smoother, more familiar smoke. If you've never tried a kretek, expect a noticeably different experience—clove cigarettes often have a spiced, somewhat sweet character that regular cigarettes lack.

This difference also affects how you smoke them. Clove cigarettes may burn differently and can produce a unique aroma. Some smokers find kreteks too intense for everyday use, while others prefer them as an occasional change. Camel Blue, being a standard cigarette, delivers a consistent, straightforward tobacco taste that many smokers rely on daily.

Pack size and value

Gudang Garam International comes in packs of 12 sticks, while Camel Blue is sold in standard packs (typically 20 sticks, though the exact count isn't listed in the catalog). The smaller pack size of Gudang Garam makes it a lower-commitment option if you want to try a kretek without buying a full pack. However, per-stick cost may be higher.

Price-wise, at the time of writing, Gudang Garam International is listed at $204.40 (compared to a regular price of $280.00), and Camel Blue at $319.50 (compared to $450.00). Both are discounted, but Camel Blue costs more upfront. If budget is a primary concern, Gudang Garam offers a lower entry point, but you get fewer cigarettes.

When to choose each

If you enjoy flavored or aromatic tobacco and want a smaller pack to test the waters, Gudang Garam International is the clear pick. It's also a good choice if you're curious about kretek culture and want an authentic clove experience.

Camel Blue suits smokers who prefer a smooth, regular cigarette and want a larger pack for regular use. It's a reliable option if you already know you like classic tobacco blends and don't want the clove twist.

Key trade-offs to weigh

• Flavor profile: Gudang Garam International offers a clove-forward, aromatic taste; Camel Blue provides a smooth, regular tobacco flavor. Decide whether you want the distinctive clove character or a familiar cigarette taste.
• Pack size and commitment: Gudang Garam comes in 12-stick packs, while Camel Blue is sold in standard packs (likely 20). If you prefer a smaller pack for occasional smoking or trial, Gudang Garam is more suitable.
• Upfront cost: Gudang Garam International is priced at $204.40 per pack; Camel Blue at $319.50 per pack (both discounted from listed comparison prices). Consider your budget and how many sticks you need; the lower upfront cost of Gudang Garam may appeal for occasional use.

Product facts

• Gudang Garam International: Gudang Garam International is a clove cigarette (kretek) with 12 sticks per pack. The smaller pack size lets you try a clove cigarette without committing to a larger quantity, and the clove content delivers a distinct flavor.

  

• Camel Blue: Camel Blue is a premium tobacco product known for its smooth taste and rich flavor, using a blend of top-grade tobaccos. If you value a smooth, consistent regular cigarette, Camel Blue delivers that experience without clove notes.

  

Which one fits you?

Best for

• Smokers curious about clove cigarettes or kretek culture
• Those who want a smaller pack for occasional or trial use
• People who enjoy aromatic, spiced tobacco flavors

Not for

• Smokers who dislike clove flavor or prefer a plain tobacco taste
• Regular smokers who need a larger pack for daily use
• Anyone looking for the lowest per-stick cost