I got my S.T. Dupont lighter about 20 years ago. Yes, a Bic has the same soft flame. No, the palladium does not add to its effectiveness. And no, I do not recommend them if you lose stuff. But nothing beats that Dupont “ping!” That said, it has been the most reliable lighter I have ever owned, still working great after 2 decades. What other lighter can you say that about?