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1

Why We Love It

Reviewers love this Coleman camping stove for its reliability and performance. The wind-blocking panels are a standout feature, ensuring that even in breezy conditions, cooking is not an issue. Users also appreciate the easy-to-clean design and the high heat output, making it a top choice for family camping trips.

Pros

  • Durable
  • High heat output
  • Wind-blocking panels

Cons

  • Propane cylinder not included
  • Not compact

2-burner propane stove with wind-blocking panels.

This durable and portable propane camping stove from Coleman features two adjustable burners with a combined output of 20,000 BTUs. The wind-blocking side panels shield the burners for maximum heat and can be adjusted to fit larger pans. The chrome-plated grate is removable for easy cleaning. The stove uses a 16.4 oz. propane cylinder (sold separately).

2

Why We Love It

Users love the MSR PocketRocket 2 for its ultralight design, making it perfect for solo backpacking trips. The precision flame control is a highly praised feature, allowing users to easily adjust the flame from a roaring boil to a slow simmer. Its compact design also receives a lot of positive feedback, as it folds into a tiny case that is easy to carry.

Pros

  • Ultralight
  • Compact design
  • Precision flame control

Cons

  • Fuel canister not included
  • Wind can affect performance

A compact, ultralight stove for backpacking and camping.

The MSR PocketRocket 2 is an ultralight stove that offers high-performance cooking for solo trips. It has a robust pot support system that offers excellent stability. It operates on self-sealing isopro fuel canisters and offers precision flame control, from torch to simmer. This stove folds into a tiny case, making it extremely compact and easy to carry.

3

Why We Love It

Reviewers love the MSR PocketRocket 2 for its compact size and ease of use. It's incredibly lightweight, making it perfect for backpackers. Despite its small size, users are impressed by its speedy boiling time and efficient fuel use. Several comments also mention the stove's durability and steady flame, even in windy conditions.

Pros

  • Compact and lightweight
  • Fast and efficient boiling
  • Robust pot support system

Cons

  • No automatic ignition
  • Not suitable for large cookware

A compact, efficient, and reliable camping stove.

The MSR PocketRocket 2 is an ultralight, compact backpacking stove that offers fast and efficient boiling. Featuring a robust pot support system, this stove can handle a wide range of cookware sizes. Precision flame control allows for simmer to boil, and the small size makes it ideal for travel and storage. Made of durable stainless steel, it's built to last and withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures.

4

Why We Love It

The MSR PocketRocket 2 is praised by outdoor enthusiasts for its compact and lightweight design, making it a favorite among backpackers. Users appreciate the fast boiling times and the easy flame control. Its compatibility with a wide range of cookware is also a big plus. Despite its size, many reviewers note its robust and durable construction.

Pros

  • Ultralight
  • Compact
  • Fast boiling times

Cons

  • No piezo igniter
  • Wind can affect performance

Ultralight, compact camping stove

The MSR PocketRocket 2 Ultralight Camping Stove is a compact, lightweight stove that offers fast boiling times and easy flame control. It has a robust construction and folds away neatly for easy storage and transport. The stove is compatible with a wide range of pots and pans.

5

Why We Love It

Backpackers rave about the MSR PocketRocket 2 due to its compact size and impressive power. Its fast boil time and adjustable flame control are highly appreciated, allowing for precise cooking in the backcountry. The protective case is another plus, ensuring the stove stays safe during transport.

Pros

  • Ultralight and compact
  • Fast boil time
  • Adjustable flame control

Cons

  • Fuel canister sold separately
  • No wind protection

Tiny but powerful single-burner stove.

The MSR PocketRocket 2 is an ultralight, compact stove that's perfect for backpacking and camping. Despite its small size, it offers robust cooking power with a fast boil time. The stove has adjustable flame control, allowing you to go from simmer to boil in an instant. The stove fits a wide range of pots and includes a protective case. It runs on MSR IsoPro fuel.

6

Why We Love It

Users love the Camp Chef Explorer for its versatility and power. Its high BTU output and two burners make it suitable for cooking multiple dishes simultaneously. The removable legs are a bonus, making it adaptable for tabletop use or freestanding. The three-sided windscreen is a popular feature, especially for windy outdoor conditions.

Pros

  • High power output
  • Versatile
  • Three-sided windscreen

Cons

  • Bulky size
  • Propane tank not included

Two-burner propane stove with removable legs.

The Camp Chef Explorer is a versatile double burner stove that's perfect for camping, tailgating, and backyard cooking. With a combined output of 60,000 BTUs, it offers plenty of power for all your cooking needs. The cast-aluminum burners are resistant to rust, and the three-sided windscreen ensures optimal performance. The stove has a 3-foot hose included for a bulk propane tank.

7

Why We Love It

The Camp Chef Explorer Double Burner Stove is loved for its high BTU output, providing ample cooking power for group camping trips. Users appreciate the adjustable heat-control dials and the three-sided windscreen, which helps protect the flame from wind. Despite its size, it's easy to set up and operate.

Pros

  • High BTU output
  • Two burners
  • Windscreen included

Cons

  • Bulk propane tank not included
  • Not suitable for backpacking

A high-powered double burner camping stove for group cooking.

The Camp Chef Explorer Double Burner Stove is designed for serious outdoor cooking. Each of the two burners puts out 30,000 BTUs, providing ample cooking power for large groups. The stove features a three-sided windscreen and fully adjustable heat-control dials. It operates on a bulk propane tank and is outfitted with a regulator and a 3 ft hose.

8

Why We Love It

Reviewers and users appreciate the Primus MicronTrail Stove for its lightweight and compact design, making it a popular choice among backpackers. Its high heat output and wind-resistant flame are also highly praised. The convenient piezo ignition system is another feature that users love, offering reliable ignition without the need for matches or lighters.

Pros

  • Lightweight and compact
  • High heat output
  • Reliable piezo ignition

Cons

  • Pot stability might be an issue with larger pots
  • Fuel canister sold separately

Lightweight camping stove with reliable piezo ignition.

The Primus MicronTrail Stove with Piezo Ignition is a lightweight, reliable camping stove. It features a compact design that makes it ideal for backpackers and solo campers. The stove offers a high 8,530 BTU/h output, and its narrow, high-speed flame is wind resistant, making outdoor cooking a breeze. The built-in piezo igniter offers reliable ignition, eliminating the need for matches or lighters.

Product Comparison

Compare features across all products in this category

6 Features 4 Products Updated Oct 03, 2025
Product Durability Heat Output (BTUs) Weight Boil Time (liters/min) Wind Protection Fuel Type
1 Coleman Gas Camping Stove | Classic Propane Stove
High 20,000 11 lbs N/A Yes Propane
2 MSR PocketRocket 2 Ultralight Camping Stove
Medium N/A 3 oz 1 liter in 3.5 minutes No MSR IsoPro
3 MSR PocketRocket 2 Ultralight Backpacking, Camping, and Travel Stove
Medium N/A 3 oz 1 liter in 3.5 minutes No MSR IsoPro
5 Camp Chef Explorer Double Burner Stove
High 60,000 30 lbs N/A Yes Propane
1

Coleman Gas Camping Stove | Classic Propane Stove

Durability
High
Heat Output (BTUs)
20,000
Weight
11 lbs
Boil Time (liters/min)
N/A
Wind Protection
Yes
Fuel Type
Propane
2

MSR PocketRocket 2 Ultralight Camping Stove

Durability
Medium
Heat Output (BTUs)
N/A
Weight
3 oz
Boil Time (liters/min)
1 liter in 3.5 minutes
Wind Protection
No
Fuel Type
MSR IsoPro
3

MSR PocketRocket 2 Ultralight Backpacking, Camping, and Travel Stove

Durability
Medium
Heat Output (BTUs)
N/A
Weight
3 oz
Boil Time (liters/min)
1 liter in 3.5 minutes
Wind Protection
No
Fuel Type
MSR IsoPro
5

Camp Chef Explorer Double Burner Stove

Durability
High
Heat Output (BTUs)
60,000
Weight
30 lbs
Boil Time (liters/min)
N/A
Wind Protection
Yes
Fuel Type
Propane

Frequently Asked Questions About Compact Camping Stoves

What makes a compact camping stoves the "best"?

We evaluate products based on quality, performance, value for money, user reviews, durability, and ease of use. Our rankings are updated regularly to reflect the latest market offerings and user feedback.

How often do you update your compact camping stoves recommendations?

Our team continuously monitors the market for new products and updates our recommendations quarterly. We also adjust rankings based on user feedback and new testing results.

Do you test all the products you recommend?

Yes, whenever possible, we physically test products in our labs. For products we can't test directly, we rely on verified user reviews, expert opinions, and detailed specifications to make informed recommendations.

What if I'm looking for a specific type of compact camping stoves?

Our top 10 list covers the most popular and highly-rated options. If you have specific requirements, check our detailed product descriptions and pros/cons to find the best match for your needs.