Abstract: In order to select a kinetic model best fit for the design, optimization and control of tobacco drying process, the drying kinetic behavior of tobacco strips under the conditions of 65 ℃ & RH 15%, 75 ℃ & RH 10%, 85 ℃ & RH 5% was investigated with a humidifier combined with TGA (Thermogravimetric analyzer). The drying behavior of tobacco strips was simulated by REA (Reaction engineering approach) model and eight selected thin layer drying models (semi-empirical or empirical). The results showed that: 1) With the rise of temperature and decrease of humidity, the drying rate of strips raised and the equilibrium moisture content of strips lowered. 2) The drying kinetic curves predicted by REA model well agreed with experimental curves, especially at the stage when the moisture content decreased from 20% to 12%. Among eight thin layer drying models, Two term model was the best for predicting the drying behavior of strips with the highest R² (determination coefficient) and the lowest RMSE (root mean square error). 3) Thin layer drying model reflected only the kinetic parameters corresponding to specified drying conditions, while in the REA model the temperature and humidity served as variables, it enabled the kinetic parameters in REA model to describe the drying kinetic behavior at any drying condition. 4) REA model was simple in structure, fast and accurate in prediction, more universal and practical than Two term model.