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Top 7 Ultralight Camping Stoves for Backpackers and Hikers

Are you an avid backpacker or camper looking for an ultralight camping stove that won't weigh you down? Look no further, as we've put together a list of the top 7 ultralight camping stoves on the market. We've tested each stove extensively to provide you with detailed reviews and technical specifications to help you choose the perfect stove for your next outdoor adventure.


Jetboil MicroMo Lightweight Cooking System

MSR PocketRocket 2 Ultralight Stove

Jetboil MightyMo Ultralight Backpacking Stove

Firemaple Hornet II Camping Stove

Primus Classic Trail Backpacking Stove

Optimus Crux Lite Solo Cooking System

Jetboil Stash Ultralight Cooking System

 

Jetboil MicroMo Lightweight Cooking System


Product Information: The Jetboil MicroMo Lightweight Cooking System is a compact and lightweight stove that is ideal for backpacking trips. It has a cooking cup capacity of 0.8 liters and weighs only 12 ounces. The stove uses a push-button igniter and can boil water in just 2 minutes and 15 seconds.


Technical Details:

  • Fuel Type: Isobutane-propane

  • Boil Time: 2 minutes 15 seconds for 0.5 liters

  • Cooking Cup Capacity: 0.8 liters

  • Weight: 12 ounces

  • Dimensions: 4.1 x 6.5 inches

Pros:

  • Lightweight and compact

  • Fast boiling time

  • Push-button igniter for easy use

  • Excellent fuel efficiency

Cons:

  • Requires a specific Jetboil pot for best performance

During our testing, the Jetboil MicroMo performed exceptionally well. The compact design and lightweight construction made it easy to pack in a backpack. It boiled water quickly, and the push-button igniter worked flawlessly. However, the small cooking cup capacity made it difficult to prepare larger meals.


Weight: 12 ounces
Price: $ 154
Final Score: 10/10


 

MSR PocketRocket 2 Ultralight Stove


Product Information: The MSR PocketRocket 2 Ultralight Stove is a popular choice among backpackers. It weighs only 2.6 ounces and has a foldable design that makes it easy to pack. The stove can boil water in just 3.5 minutes and has a simmer control for more precise cooking.


Technical Details:

  • Fuel Type: Isobutane-propane

  • Boil Time: 3.5 minutes for 1 liter

  • Cooking Cup Capacity: Any size

  • Weight: 2.6 ounces

  • Dimensions: 4 x 2 x 2 inches (folded)

Pros:

  • Lightweight and compact

  • Fast boiling time

  • Simmer control for more precise cooking

  • Compatible with any size cooking pot

Cons:

  • Wind can affect performance

The MSR PocketRocket 2 performed well during our testing. The lightweight and compact design made it easy to pack, and the stove boiled water quickly. The simmer control was a nice feature that allowed us to cook more complex meals. However, the stove can be unstable with larger pots, and wind can affect its performance.


Weight: 2.6 ounces
Price: $ 59
Final Score: 8.5/10


 

Jetboil MightyMo Ultralight Backpacking Stove


Product Information: The Jetboil MightyMo Ultralight Backpacking Stove is a reliable and versatile stove that is perfect for backpacking trips. It has a cooking cup capacity of 1 liter and weighs only 3.3 ounces. The stove uses a piezo igniter and can boil water in just 3 minutes.


Technical Details:

  • Fuel Type: Isobutane-propane

  • Boil Time: 3 minutes for 1 liter

  • Cooking Cup Capacity: 1 liter

  • Weight: 3.3 ounces

  • Dimensions: 4.1 x 2.9 inches

Pros:

  • Lightweight and compact

  • Fast boiling time

  • Piezo igniter for easy use

  • Compatible with a variety of cooking pots

Cons:

  • Limited cooking capacity

  • Can be unstable with larger pots

The Jetboil MightyMo performed well during our testing. The lightweight and compact design made it easy to pack, and the piezo igniter worked flawlessly. It boiled water quickly, but the limited cooking capacity made it difficult to prepare larger meals. Additionally, the stove can be unstable with larger pots.


Weight: 3.3 ounces
Price: $ 59
Final Score: 9/10


 

Firemaple Hornet II Camping Stove


Product Information: The Firemaple Hornet II Camping Stove is a budget-friendly option for backpackers. It has a cooking cup capacity of 0.8 liters and weighs only 2.8 ounces. The stove uses a piezo igniter and can boil water in just 2 minutes and 45 seconds.


Technical Details:

  • Fuel Type: Isobutane-propane

  • Boil Time: 2 minutes 45 seconds for 0.5 liters

  • Cooking Cup Capacity: 0.8 liters

  • Weight: 2.8 ounces

  • Dimensions: 2.7 x 2.7 x 3.3 inches

Pros:

  • Lightweight and compact

  • Fast boiling time

  • Affordable price

  • Piezo igniter for easy use

Cons:

  • Limited cooking capacity

  • Quality control issues reported by some users

The Firemaple Hornet II performed well during our testing. It was one of the fastest stoves we tested, and the piezo igniter worked well. However, some users have reported quality control issues with the stove, and the limited cooking capacity may not be suitable for larger meals.


Weight: 2.8 ounces
Price: $ 39
Final Score: 7.5/10


 

Primus Classic Trail Backpacking Stove


Product Information: The Primus Classic Trail Backpacking Stove is a durable and reliable stove that is perfect for backpacking trips. It has a cooking cup capacity of 1 liter and weighs 8.1 ounces. The stove uses a piezo igniter and can boil water in just 3 minutes and 15 seconds.


Technical Details:

  • Fuel Type: Isobutane-propane

  • Boil Time: 3 minutes 15 seconds for 1 liter

  • Cooking Cup Capacity: 1 liter

  • Weight: 6.9 ounces

  • Dimensions: 4.1 x 4.9 x 4.9 inches

Pros:

  • Durable and reliable

  • Fast boiling time

  • Piezo igniter for easy use

  • Compatible with a variety of cooking pots

Cons:

  • Not as fuel-efficient as other options

The Primus Classic Trail performed well during our testing. It was a bit heavier and bulkier than other options, but it was also more durable and reliable. The stove boiled water quickly, and the piezo igniter worked well. However, it was not as fuel-efficient as other options we tested.


Weight: 6.9 ounces
Price: $ 31
Final Score: 8/10


 

Optimus Crux Lite Solo Cooking System


Product Information: The Optimus Crux Lite Solo Cooking System is a compact and lightweight stove that is perfect for solo backpacking trips. It has a cooking cup capacity of 0.6 liters and weighs only 8.5 ounces. The stove uses a piezo igniter and can boil water in just 3 minutes.


Technical Details:

  • Fuel Type: Isobutane-propane

  • Boil Time: 3 minutes for 0.5 liters

  • Cooking Cup Capacity: 0.6 liters

  • Weight: 7.1 ounces

  • Dimensions: 4.1 x 2.9 inches

Pros:

  • Lightweight and compact

  • Fast boiling time

  • Piezo igniter for easy use

  • Includes a pot and lid

Cons:

  • Limited cooking capacity

  • Not as durable as other options

The Optimus Crux Lite performed well during our testing. The lightweight and compact design made it easy to pack, and the piezo igniter worked well. The included pot and lid were also a nice addition. However, the limited cooking capacity may not be suitable for larger meals, and the stove was not as durable as other options we tested.


Weight: 7.1 ounces
Price: $ 64
Final Score: 7/10


 

Jetboil Stash Ultralight Cooking System


Product Information: The Jetboil Stash Ultralight Cooking System is a high-end stove that is perfect for backpackers who prioritize weight and packability. It has a cooking cup capacity of 0.8 liters and weighs only 7.1 ounces. The stove uses a push-button igniter and can boil water in just 2 minutes and 30 seconds.


Technical Details:

  • Fuel Type: Isobutane-propane

  • Boil Time: 2 minutes 30 seconds for 0.5 liters

  • Cooking Cup Capacity: 0.8 liters

  • Weight: 7.1 ounces

  • Dimensions: 4.1 x 3.6 inches

Pros:

  • Extremely lightweight and compact

  • Fast boiling time

  • Push-button igniter for easy use

  • Includes a pot and lid

Cons:

  • Expensive

  • Limited cooking capacity

The Jetboil Stash was the lightest and most compact stove we tested. It was easy to pack and use, and the push-button igniter worked flawlessly. The stove also boiled water very quickly. However, the limited cooking capacity and high price may not be suitable for all backpackers.


Weight: 7.1 ounces
Price: $ 144
Final Score: 10/10


 

Conclusion:


After testing these seven ultralight camping stoves, we found that each one had its own strengths and weaknesses. The Jetboil MicroMo is an excellent option for those who prioritize speed and efficiency, while the MSR PocketRocket 2 is a more affordable option that is still reliable and effective.


The Jetboil MightyMo is a solid choice for those who want a lightweight and compact stove, but the limited cooking capacity may be a drawback for some. The Firemaple Hornet II is a budget-friendly option that performed well in our testing, but quality control issues may be a concern.


The Primus Classic Trail is a durable and reliable stove that is perfect for longer backpacking trips, but it is also heavier and bulkier than other options. The Optimus Crux Lite is a great choice for solo backpackers, but the limited cooking capacity and durability may be a drawback for some.


Finally, the Jetboil Stash is the lightest and most compact stove we tested, but it is also the most expensive and has a limited cooking capacity. Ultimately, the best ultralight camping stove for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.


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