Unequal humidity in humidor

[Shelby07]

Yes. Hydrometers take readings from the air inside the humidor, so it is very likely that different sections will have varying Rh. It will probably only vary sightly, so it shouldn't be a problem. You're reading a higher Rh on the top level of your humidor probably because there is actually more air circulation there.

In my experience over stuffing your humidor can make your Rh seem low, but my cigars are fine. If your sticks are smoking fine don't worry so much about numbers.

Exactly right.

[craig]

If you've covered all the slots in your top tray with cigars (especially cigars in cello), then there won't be much circulation of the humid air to the lower part of the humidor. On the other hand (see below), the lower part of the humidor may not need much humidification.

(I'm assuming that your humidification unit is in the lid.)

Solutions, if desired, include keeping a slot/parts of slots free so the air can circulate, or having humidification on both levels.

I say "if desired," as, in a traditional desktop with a single tray, you can keep the cigars that you're aging in the bottom - where they won't be disturbed (much) by the regular opening and closing - and keep the cigars that you're smoking in the top tray.