For the Most part, you get what you pay for. Not always but most of the time. For under $2 I honestly cannot think of a great Cigar but then again I've had some of the best IMHO in my short Smoking Experience. My favorite Budget Cigars include the Padron Fumas, FDO Maduro and the SLR Rothchild. They all run in the $1.50 to $2.50 range. Cuban wise, The Fonseca KDT and La Flor De cano Selecto are a good bet.