You can leave your dry, salty and unsatisfying food at home – today’s camping stoves bring a whole new level of glamour to your motorhome and your basic adventure. Unlike backpacks, Pinterest does not require you to look for bypass solutions to compensate for inferior ovens. You can count on stable fuel performance, powerful flames and superior cooking control from the very first offer. Camping stoves range in size from small table-top models to independent giants for large groups. For beginners or for those who want general information, it is useful to read our comparison table and consult the buyers to refine your search. Below you will find our favourite walking boards for 2020. If you’re looking for lighter, smaller versions to fit in your backpack, read our article on the best backpack oven.
Dear Board of Directors of Camping
1. Camp Everest Cook ($90)
Category: Table
Fuel: Propane
Burner: 2 @ 20,000 BTU
Weight: 12 lbs.
What we like:. Solid universal performance at a good price.
What we don’t do: The temperature control buttons can be marked more clearly.
Our best choice, Camp Chef Everest, is neither the most powerful nor the most compact. But it offers a ton of cooking power, comfort and maximum reliability to leave its mark on the market. It’s a big prize: For just $100 you get two large burners that produce a lot of energy (20,000 BTU each), but also have excellent cooking control for a variety of dishes. All this is packed in a rather small frame that doesn’t weigh you (only 12 pounds). If you don’t need a large platform or a third burner, Everest is hard to win.
What are the shortcomings of Camp Everest? The inscriptions on the thermostat buttons are rather vague, but that is only a small complaint, because Everest cooks fairly skillfully and evenly over low and medium heat. Again, there are smaller and more powerful options, but no other stove combines everything for such an affordable price. It is interesting to mention that Camp Chef has re-released the Everest for 2020 (it is now a 2X model), but the new version is about $40 more expensive without a significant increase in cooking performance. Until the outgoing Everest mentioned here has been sold, we consider the total cost to be the best solution.
Keep an eye on the leader of Camp Everest.
Most economical camping stove
2. Propane Coleman Classic ($45)
Category: Table
Fuel: Propane
Burner: 2 @ 10,000 BTU
Weight: 12 lbs.
What we like:. Cheaper, and the job’s done.
What we don’t do: Cheap production, limited flame control.
For many years, tourists have turned to Coleman furnaces for simple and reliable operation. At the bottom of his pitch is conventional propane, which is consistently sold for less than $50. It is obvious that the Classic is a cheaper option compared to the lower, more expensive Coleman Triton. They’re not really durable or hardwearing either – and for this price, maybe not – but Triton is the best investment for a motorhome that goes out more than a few times a year.
The culinary characteristics reflect the first impressions: This classic has slightly less power than the Triton, but no flames over its entire range, despite the name PerfectFlow. But look at these results from a certain angle. A $45 stove is still enough for an occasional chef on the street who has to cook for several people. Although it doesn’t have an intelligent control system like a high-end device, it is capable of boiling water, cooking steaks or grilling vegetables.
Coleman Classic Propane.
Best freestanding plate for large groups
3. Camp Research Cook 2 Fuel ($100)
Category: Separate
Fuel: Propane
Burner: 2 @ 30,000 BTU
Weight: 36 lbs.
What we like:. Very important for the result.
What we don’t do: Rather naked on the lines and clumsy.
In terms of burner performance, it will be hard to find a better deal for your dollar than Camp Chef Explorer. The 60,000 BTU two-burners are the perfect steam for cooking in the camp for large groups or even for emergencies at home. The plate is quickly adjustable and the stable feet can be adjusted individually to suit unevenness in the floor. However, to keep the price low, the Explorer has some rather weak points: no button ignition, and the burners are less protected than in the premium offers.
The advantage of the simplified design is that the Explorer is ready for a variety of camping cooking accessories, including a grill box, frying pan or pizza oven. The large dials are easy to use and work like a house stove, but unfortunately they are not much lighter than this house stove: The powder-coated assembly hits the weights at 36 pounds. If you leave it behind, this weight can be reduced a bit, but Explorer remains overloaded for less serious tourists. Larger groups should also pay attention to the Tahoe camp leader below, who has an extra burner but is twice as expensive and even heavier than the Explorer.
Look, look, look, look, look, look. Chief Investigator of the camp
Best cross-country camping/walking oven
4th MSR Combined Furnace System ($260)
Category: Table
Fuel: Bus
Burner: 1
Weight: 1 lb. 13 oz.
What we like:. Universal version for backpacks and campsites.
What we don’t do: The power and efficiency do not match the 2 burners for propane.
We’ve used MSR backpack stoves around the world, but most of their light and compact designs have a limited appeal to car camping. Enter the WindBurner combination system. This complete package includes one of MSR’s most productive cartridge ovens, the WindBurner, as well as a 2.5-litre kettle and an 8-inch common frying pan. As with the backpack model, the accessories are connected directly to the cooker to ensure good cooking and constant heating even in windy conditions.
It is clear that the WindBurner combination cannot come close to the power or total cooking capacity of the traditional camping stoves, which are located above. There is only one small burner in the system, only WindBurner specific pots and pans can be used, and the total output and burning time is significantly lower than a propane burner. The WindBurner builds a bridge between the world of backpacking and car camping. You can bring a compact one-litre pot (sold separately) to keep the light in the garden and then take the pots and pans outside for camping.
See the MSR wind turbine combination system.
The best of the other
5. Media Supplier Series 3 Burner ($80)
Category: Table
Fuel: Propane
Burner: 2 @ 25,000 BTU; 1 @ 10,000 BTU
Weight: 16 lbs.
What we like:. Powerful burners, big prizes.
What we don’t do: The overall quality does not match that of Everest.
On paper Stansport 3-Burner turns out to be a great candidate for the first place on our list. It includes two powerful burners, each generating 25,000 BTU, and a piezoelectric charge. Stansport also has a third 10,000 BTU burner for larger groups. In application, the overall performance is very similar to that of the Camp Everest cook above, with excellent flame control, which prepares many different types of dishes. And with a stable price around $100 from Amazon ($80 at the time of release), Stansport is a safe bet.
What he’s missing on Everest is quality construction. The materials are not as strong and Stansport has more problems with the fit and finish (although even the store manager does not have a perfect track record). However, the difference is relatively small, and the excellent cooking skills of Stansport and the third burner make him a very strong player in the $100 price range.
See the Stansport Outfitter Series 3 burner.
6. Eureka Yoke Plus ($145)
Category : Table
Fuel: Propane
Burner: 2 @ 10,000 BTU
Weight: 12 lbs.
What we like:. Generously dimensioned cooking surface and ignition at the touch of a button.
What we don’t do: They are more valuable and less powerful than some of their competitors.
Eureka’s Ignite Plus is one of the most advanced models on the market. It has a robust design, good cooking control and a large 23-inch cooking space that accommodates large pots and pans. Unlike most of its low-cost competitors, the Ignite Plus features a push-button ignition that protects your hands from large flames and speeds up the preparation process a little. For many this does not break the deal, but it is a nice feature that we appreciate in the design of the camp. Let’s add that Eureka has all the ingredients for a quality camping table.
All this suggests that Eureka Yinte Plus is missing in one important area: value. For about $60 less you can take off under the Coleman Triton, which has a higher burner capacity of 11,000 BTU. However, Triton refuses to press the ignition button and Ignite Plus has a more wear-resistant construction that is more resistant to regular use and abuse. Eureka also offers the cheaper version of Ignite ($110), which offers less cooking space and less control over cooking, yet is a solid and complete choice.
Look at Eureka Ignita Plus.
7. Chef at Camp Tahoe ($200)
Category: Separate
Fuel: Propane
Burner: 3 @ 30,000 BTU
Weight: 43 lbs.
What we like:. Three big burners.
What we don’t do: Really, very heavy and expensive.
If you cook for a large group of people, you need a lot of electricity, extra kitchen appliances and more burners. The head chef at Camp Tahoe has a total of three 30,000 Btu roasters, which can heat a 12-cup coffee machine and prepare eggs and bacon at the same time. In addition to the cooking performance, it is equipped with a push-button ignition, a protected burner housing and crosswind guides. Each leg is individually adjustable, which is useful for cooking on uneven surfaces.
What are Tahoe’s flaws? With an enormous weight of 43 pounds, it hurts to sneak in when you’re not accommodating a large group, and don’t forget the 5-gallon propane tank. This also doubles the costs for the Explorer. But if you are an unsurpassed camp host or have a large family, Tahoe deserves your attention.
Look at the Camp Tahoe cooks.
8. Jetboil Genesis Base Camp System ($380)
Category: Table
Fuel: Propane
Burner: 2 @ 10,000 BTU
Weight: 9 lbs. 5 oz.
What we want: The whole cooking system weighs less than 10 pounds.
What we don’t do: It’s not the coolest, most powerful prize.
Jetboil is best known for its lightweight backpack oven systems, but with the Genesis system they make a serious step into the world of camping. The concept is the first of its kind: an all-in-one camping system. You get two burners, a pot and a pan, and all sockets are well-connected for compact storage. The total weight (with the exception of a 16 primeval propane cylinder) is less than 10 pounds, which is lighter than almost all furnaces on this list alone.
In addition to the weight, it is the efficiency of the kitchen that is created. By specifically designing burners that work with your pots and pans, you can reduce fuel wastage and exceed all expectations with the 10,000 BTU burners. Moreover, the cooking control is a class leader. However, the price of the system is astronomically high, at $380, especially when compared to an option like Camp Chef Everest, which costs less than half as much, has twice the burner capacity and weighs only about two pounds more (without the dishes). In the end, however, it is difficult to compare the convenience of such a complex and easily portable system.
See the Jetboil Genesis base camp system.
9. Coleman-Triton Series ($80)
Category: Table
Fuel: Propane
Burner: 2 @ 11,000 BTU
Weight: 11 lbs.
What we like:. Excellent value for money and high performance for most tourists.
What we don’t do: No automatic ignition and a rather limited draught shield.
Colman’s Triton offers impressive cooking performance and reliability at a very competitive price of $80. The worktop is equipped with two heavy-duty, highly adjustable 11,000 BTU burners that run on a standard 16-ton propane cartridge (adapters are available to make it compatible with a large 20-gallon tank). The Coleman is one of the few ovens in its price range that, with the right baking control and solid tilt force, can prepare a variety of dishes. And finally, with its weight of 11 pounds and its practical dimensions, the Triton is easy to take with you in the car and store at home.
Where did Coleman Triton disappear to? Real camp chefs may want to upgrade to a more advanced device that offers better performance and accuracy, such as the Camp Everest cook described above. Moreover, the space in the kitchen is slightly smaller than that of high-end kitchen worktops (Everest included). It is large enough for most dishes and can easily accommodate two 10-inch pots side by side. After all, you’ll miss the automatic ignition on this model (there’s a version of InstaStart for an extra $20), and the side windshields offer only moderate wind protection. Far from these wires, Triton still offers a good combination of price and performance.
See the Coleman Triton series.
10. Mountaineering Camp Leader ($235)
Category: Table
Fuel: Propane
Burner: 2 @ 20,000 BTU
Weight: Sixteen pounds.
What we like:. Robust, corrosion-resistant aluminium construction.
What we don’t do: Rather without much improvement in performance.
Last year, the camp leader added the dual-fuel Mountaineer Utility heater to the top of his Mountain Series line. The main novelty of this model is the robust all-aluminium construction, which is much more resistant to rust and corrosion than most structures on the market. The stove is specially designed for wet and coastal areas, but its robust construction is also perfect for camping and canoeing in general. And the rest of the design is what we expect from a chef in the warehouse: an easy-to-use flame control system, a large cooking platform and good performance at both high and low temperatures.
As for the snow summit below, with the Camp Mountaineer leader you pay a reward for high quality materials. The aluminium construction and substantial design add a little weight (16 pounds), and the 20,000 BTU output is good, but it doesn’t stand out in this list. For most camping trips, we prefer Everest, which has performance to match, although it has no metal fixings and no explosive mountain feel. This sturdy and durable construction is an excellent selling point for a mountaineer and will earn him a place on our 2020 list.
Look at Camp Chief Mountaineers.
11. Coleman Guide, Series 424 ($67)
Category: Table
Fuel: White gas/unleaded gas
Burner: 2 @ 7000 BTU
Weight: 12 lbs.
What we like:. Multi-fuel design and robust construction.
What we don’t do: Lower total capacity than propane ovens.
Just like the Coleman Classic above, the Guide 424 Series has a nostalgic feel and reliable performance. What has made it so popular over the years – and our favourite – is the ability to run on both white gas and unleaded petrol. Its white gas makes it more resistant than propane during the cold season, and thanks to its ability to use unleaded petrol, you can follow the fuel almost anywhere. For winter adventures or travelling over land, the Coleman 424 is hard to beat.
What are the disadvantages of this stove? For example, 424 years old show their age with much less power than modern propane ovens. In addition, the two burners are connected in such a way that the second appliance becomes less hot when the first appliance is running at full speed, which can slow down the cooking process. The oven also has a small cooking platform with enough space for two 10-inch pans (e.g. a 12-inch pan can be placed next to the 10-inch pans in the Triton above). Overall, the 424 has its place among serious adventurers, but the average camper will do better with one of the propane structures mentioned above.
See the Coleman 424 Series Guide.
12. Camp VersaTop Chef ($195)
Category : Table
Fuel: Propane
Burner: 1 @ 15,000 BTU
Weight: 24 lbs.
What we like:. Large hob and compatible with fun accessories.
What we don’t do: Heavy and not as versatile as a traditional two burner.
If your favourite dishes aren’t prepared in a pot or pan, but in a frying pan, it’s worth taking a look at the Camp VersaTop chefs. The cooker is equipped with a large Camp Chef non-stick worktop, has excellent ignition for easy starting and stopping, and cooks evenly over the entire surface. VersaTop is also compatible with Camp Chef’s Artisan Oven and Grillbox (sold separately), which means you can make bacon and eggs, homemade pizzas and garden burgers.
As a chef at VersaTop Camp, there are inherent compromises that come with the choice of design. If you’re planning on cooking complicated dishes that involve different types of cookware, the cost can rise quite quickly (14-inch Camp Chef accessories cost between $40 and $200, plus an initial investment of $195). The stove weighs 24 pounds, even without additives, which can be painful when towed through the camp. But for those who need a stove for use in the garden or on the campsite, VersaTop is a nice option.
Check out the VersaTop kitchen camp.
13. GigaPower snow top LI ($375)
Category: Separate
Fuel: Isobutane/propane
Burner: 1 @ 34,000 BTU
Weight: 3 lbs. 15 ounces
What we like: Nicely done, powerful burner.
What we don’t do: A burner and very expensive.
Snow Peak distinguishes itself in the oven market by its exceptional attention to detail and craftsmanship. They pay a high price for their high-quality products, but they are well thought out, highly functional and absolutely elegant. The GigaPower LI with its series of camping stoves is our favourite. This powerful single burner is designed for cooking in a single pan for large groups: The 34,000 BTU burner has ultra-fast baking times, precise control and powerful support levers that can hold pots and pans of different sizes. The feet are individually adjustable to keep the surface flat and the whole machine is folded into a bag small enough to transport.
With $375 and only one burner, the GigaPower LI doesn’t have the appeal of many of the options on this list. It also works on isobutane/propane backpack canisters, which have a shorter capacity and burning time than standard propane cylinders or 5-gallon tanks. On the other hand, the isobutane bushing is easy to install and the oven works well in cold weather. Anyone who appreciates intelligent functions and only needs a powerful burner must be very satisfied with GigaPower LI.
Watch out for the snowy top of GigaPower LI.
14. Eureka Gonzo Grill Cooking System ($190)
Category : Table
Fuel: Propane
Burner: 1 @ 6000 BTU
Weight: 14 lbs. 3 ounces
What we like: Three in one cooking system.
What we don’t do: Limited power and cooking surface.
It’s not easy to combine a grill, frying pan and cooker in a single cooking system, but Eureka makes it perfect with its Gonzo Grill. The three-in-one design is quite simple: Use a cast iron grate or turn it over with a metal hook to reach the grate, or remove the lining completely to use the stove with a burner. Like many Eureka ovens, the Gonzo Grill can be connected to other Eureka or Jetboil systems and connected to a propane cylinder.
Where did Gonzo Grill disappear to? While the three-in-one system can be useful for individual campers and small groups, the choice of a single 12-inch area on a grill, cooker or stove limits the space available for cooking. And with a 6000 BTU burner, the Gonzo Grill doesn’t have the baking capacity of many of the ovens mentioned above. Although this is an innovative idea that can work quite well if you have several ovens connected, Eureka itself has a limited appeal. In addition, you can buy a cooker similar to the Camp Chef Explorer with two burners on top and replace the top of the accessories for similar versatility.
Discover the Eureka Gonzo grid system.
15. Primus Profile Standard ($108)
Category: Table
Fuel: Propane
Burner: 2 @ 12,000 BTU
Weight:9 lbs.
What we like: .good looks, high quality materials.
What we don’t have:underestimates its price
Primus Profile is a modern take on camping classics, and although it looks great, unfortunately it contains some old shows. To be honest, the profile standard is usually a good small furnace, but it slips into our list for several reasons. The biggest blow for him is its value, because his performance is not the same price, but his stronger Camp Chef and Stansport higher.
While it is true that the profiled skewers are slightly more pleasing to the eye (at least before they are covered with food sludge), they pump much less BTU, which translates into slower cooking times (especially with boiling water) and less flexibility in the type of food you can cook. Moreover, it is known that the detonator is difficult to use. In summary, we only recommend the profile for sale.
See Primus’ standard profile.
16. Coleman Bhutan Instastart ($35)
Category: Table
Fuel: Bhutan Berners: 1 @ 7650 BTU
Weight: Four pounds. 11 ounces
What we love: Compact and decent power.
What we don’t do: Limited single burner, butane fuel does not work in cold conditions.
Let’s start with the obvious: This Coleman stove is not for serious camp chefs. But Instastart Butane is a cheap disposable burner that works well for limited use or as a backup. The stove can easily accommodate a small boiler or pot (up to 10 inches) and works perfectly thanks to its miniature size. It’s a great choice to take with you if you need to prepare your main kitchen for the stake, but you’ll need a stove to cook things like heating water quickly.
This Coleman stove runs on butane, and although the cylinder fits perfectly in the body of the stove, the fuel is not as readily available as the ubiquitous green propane canisters. In general it is a basic windshield that is not very good, but otherwise it is done. For 35 bucks, it’s not a bad deal.
Watch the instant art of Coleman Bhutan.
17. Primus Ondja Furnace ($150)
Category: Table
Fuel: Isobutane/propane
Burner: 2 @ 10,000 BTU
Weight: 7 lbs.
What we like:. Excellent packaging and full cutting board.
What we don’t do: There is no windshield and every burner needs a fuel tank.
Onja 2 is a cleverly designed and highly portable stove from the famous Swedish brand Primus. Unlike ovens, which lie flat on the tabletop, Onya rests directly on two folding legs. This means it is at a good height when cooking on a picnic table, and the stove can also be used directly on the floor. As we expect from Primus, there is good work with brass and leather on the outside, a handy carrying strap and an oak cutting board that also serves as a lid. And despite its relatively small size, the Onja double burner can contain large pots and pans.
As far as performance is concerned, Onja 2 has some disadvantages. On the one hand, the burners remain partially exposed to the wind and the stove does not have a windscreen, as is the case with many of the table options mentioned above. Another problem is that Onja is somewhat inefficient and each burner works with its own container of isobutane/propane fuel with a maximum burning time of only 34 minutes (230g bus). But the performance is more than enough, and Onja’s compact size and creative packaging is perfect for small groups and fast journeys.
Look at the Primus-Ondja stove.
18. Covea Cube ($40)
Category : Table
Fuel: Bhutan Berners: 1 @ 7800 BTU
Weight: 1 lb 8 oz.
What we like:. A simple and modern design.
What we don’t do: Untested long-term performance.
Camping stoves can rarely be described as elegant, but the Korean Kovea breaks this trend with its simple and clean structures. What we like most about their new model for the Cube 2020 is the light but robust stainless steel construction, the respectable 7800 BTU (a Coleman Instastart weighs 7650 grams less) and the light weight of only 1 pound 8 ounce (3 pounds less than Coleman). In general, the Cube is a beautiful and functional design for an excellent price.
As with the Coleman-butane instant start above, the cube runs on butane, which can be more difficult to find than propane in an emergency. Although Kovea exists since 1982, it is a relatively small player on the American market and has no proven experience with these brands. Leaving those complaints aside, the Cube is an attractive option for those who want a system that brings a bit of style to their campsite. And for the larger version of Kovea, look at the Slim Twin ($130), an ultra-low twin burner that is relatively light at 3.5 kg.
Look at the Covea Cube.
19. BioLite CampStove 2 ($150)
Category : Separate
Fuel: Shaft
Burner: 1
Weight: Two pounds. 1 ounce
What we like:. Inspiring mission and charging skills.
What we don’t do: It is not always easy to control cooking and firewood.
BioLight approaches things a little differently: Instead of using propane or butane, the company has based itself on the concept of using energy from the cooking system. Their stoves mainly use wood or pellets to drive an integrated generator, which in turn drives a fan to improve heating efficiency, and also collects energy to drive the electronics (you can also pre-charge the battery before leaving). CampStove 2 is their portable model, equipped with easy-to-read LED indicators showing firepower, available power and fan speed. And as a bonus, for people with limited space, BioLite contains a 32-ounce bottle of water when not in use.
Just like a camping stove, CampStove 2 is a fun, but somewhat restrictive option. The basic design is without accessories (e.g. for $60 you need to purchase a compatible BioLite grill separately), and the reliance on wood or pellets does not allow as much flame and heat control. You can choose between four fan speeds to control the size of the fire, and the ability to charge your phone or other devices in the forest is a clear advantage. BioLight is not for everyone, but we admire the ambitions and technical expertise of the company in developing this fun and somewhat useful camping stove.
View BioLite CampStove 2
20. Go-Sun Sports Solar Storage Oven ($249)
Category: Table
Fuel: Sunburner
: n.a.
Weight: 7 lbs 8 oz.
What we like:. Cooking without fuel.
What we don’t do: Limited shape and partial sunshine are no guarantee during camping.
For a completely different cooking system, the GoSun Sport Camp Cooker is fully powered by solar energy. This cylindrical furnace heats up quickly in the sun (up to 550°F) and the efficient vacuum tube operates even on partially cloudy and cold days. Moreover, it is quite light, easy to transport and comes with an excellent warranty. It is not a pinch heater (it needs sunlight to work), but GoSun Sport is a fun and well made concept.
In the end we are at the bottom of our list with GoSun because of the considerations that are made with this type of oven. On the one hand, the long cylindrical shape of the sports camp stove limits what you can cook and how much you can make at the same time. And the greatest attention is paid to the cooking time, which can vary greatly depending on the weather (and doesn’t work at all at sunset). After all, GoSun is a new idea, and we like the fact that it doesn’t need fuel, but can’t compete with the comfort and reliability of a standard propane heater.
Take a look at the GoSun Sport Camp solar energy sports stove
Comparison table for camping stoves
| Fourneau | Prices | Category | Fuel | Burners | Weight | Ignition |
| Camp Everest Chef | $90 | Column | Propane | 2 TO 20,000 BTU | Twelve pounds. | Incomparable |
| Coleman Classic Propane | $45 | Column | Propane | 2 TO 10,000 BTU | Twelve pounds. | Guide |
| Bearing Research Manager | $100 | Remarkable | Propane | 2 TO 30,000 BTU | Thirty-six pounds. | Guide |
| MSR wind heater combination | $260 | Column | Bus | 1 (no BTU classification) | 1 pound 13 ounces. | Guide |
| 3-burner stand-alone equipment series | $80 | Column | Propane | 2 @ 25,000 BTU 1 @ 10,000 BTU |
Sixteen pounds. | Incomparable |
| Eureka Flexi plus | $145 | Column | Propane | 2 TO 10,000 BTU | Twelve pounds. | Incomparable |
| Chef of Camp Tahoe | $200 | Remarkable | Propane | 3 TO 30,000 BTU | Forty-three pounds. | Incomparable |
| Basic jet generation system | $380 | Column | Propane | 2 TO 10,000 BTU | Nine pounds five ounces. | Incomparable |
| Coleman Triton | $80 | Column | Propane | 2 @ 11,000 BTU | Eleven pounds. | Guide |
| Main mountain camp | $235 | Column | Propane | 2 TO 20,000 BTU | Sixteen pounds. | Incomparable |
| Coleman Guide 424, Series | $67 | Column | Multifuel | 2 TO 7,000 BTU | Twelve pounds. | Guide |
| Stock VersaTopChef | $195 | Column | Propane | 1 TO 15,000 BTU | Twenty-four pounds. | Incomparable |
| GigaPower LISnow top | $375 | Remarkable | Isobutane | 1 @ 34,000 BTU | 3 pounds 15 ounces. | Guide |
| Eureka gonzo grill | $190 | Column | Propane | 1 TO 6,000 BTU | 14 pounds 3 ounces. | Incomparable |
| Primus Profile Standard | $108 | Column | Propane | 2 @ 12,000 BTU | Nine pounds. | Incomparable |
| Coleman Bhutan Instastart | $35 | Column | Bhutan | 1 @ 7650 BTU | 4 pounds 11 ounces. | Incomparable |
| Primus onya stove | $150 | Column | Isobutane | 2 TO 10,000 BTU | Seven pounds. | Guide |
| Covea cube | $40 | Column | Bhutan | 1 @ 7800 BTU | 1 pound 8 ounces. | Incomparable |
| BioLite CampStove 2 | $150 | Remarkable | Wood | 1 (no BTU classification) | Two pounds an ounce. | Guide |
| GoSun Sports Solar Support Plate | $249 | Column | Solar energy | k. A. | 7 pounds 8 ounces. | k. A. |
Tips for buying a campsite
- Furnace categories: Freestanding or table top
- How many burners?
- Burner capacity: BTU
- Type and volume of fuel
- Camp stove width
- Windy weather
- What is a piezoelectric detonator?
- Control and authority
- Frying pans, grills and saucepans
- Package weight and dimensions
- Camping against the oven for backpacks
Furnace categories: Freestanding or table top
The camping stoves are available in two main versions: high, free-standing models with legs and smaller table-top models. Separate ovens are usually associated with larger, high-capacity models that take up a lot of space on a bench or picnic table. They are much heavier and harder to carry, but they are a great tool for the demanding camp cook. Thanks to the large kitchen area, you can prepare meals from the hinterland in a creative way. If you think you need a self-contained stove, but are afraid that you will have to take it with you on every trip, then there is no need to be afraid: Most stove legs are removable.
Table camp of Chief Everest (left) and an independent researcher (right).
In general, tourists prefer the table stove. Due to their small size and light weight, they are easy to pack and store in the car, and with high-quality structures such as the Coleman Triton, the drop in performance is quite small. But you need something to turn it on. If you are on your way to the unknown, or if you have a base camp in a remote location, but still want gourmet food, you should probably bring a camping table, not only for the stove, but also for all the preparation work.
How many burners?
It’s no coincidence that most big sellers have two burners – that’s all most of us will need. Just like cooking at home, where two burners are running at the same time, most food is prepared on time. Moreover, it is often a better choice than the more limited single furnace panels, although some models, such as MSR’s combined wind turbine system, are attractive to run. And for large gatherings, there are three-burner stoves, like those in Camp Chief Tahoe. In many cases, however, when the group is large, it would be a good idea to give responsibility for the second stove to someone else. The three-burner package is bulky: The Tahoe is 8 pounds heavier and 6 inches longer than the second largest two-burner hob, the camp’s independent chef.
Another option for larger groups is to choose a panel that can be connected in series with another system. For example, the Jetboil Genesis base camp system and the Eureka Gonzo grill can be connected to other Jetboil or Eureka models and connected to a propane cylinder. This allows you to enlarge the baking chamber without having to carry a heavy floor oven. And for walks where you don’t need extra burners, just leave one of the stoves on.
Two burners are enough for most tourists.
Burner capacity: BTU
The BTU, or British Thermal Unit, is a measure of thermal performance. Concretely, it is the amount of energy needed to heat one pound of water to one degree Fahrenheit. As far as camping is concerned, it is used as a standard for determining the working potential of a gas stove. Although the BTU should not be considered the only indicator of the cooking surface that can influence the actual flame intensity, it is an excellent way to compare the oven as a whole. If you’re used to a 10,000 Btu burner and you’re looking at a 20,000 Btu burner like Camp Chef Everest, we can guarantee you the difference will be noticeable.
The increase in power has several advantages. On the one hand, a stronger flame allows you to cook more food faster – you can shorten the cooking time in a large pot of water by a few minutes. A larger flame (20,000 BTU or more) is therefore recommended for larger groups. This extra capacity results in higher fuel consumption, which can be a problem when the powerful stove is filled with a small 16 tonne propane cylinder. You’ll probably want to take a few extra cans with you if you’re travelling more than one night.
Coleman’s Classic Propane has two burners for 10,000 Btu.
Type and volume of fuel
The vast majority of the stoves on the campsite are powered by propane: The fuel works well in the temperature range and it is no coincidence that the small green bottles are available in almost every outdoor shop or large cash register. For reasons of space and if you are not camping for a long time, 16-ounce bottles should be sufficient. However, we strongly recommend that you bring more than one, regardless of the length of your stay. At high temperatures, with some of the most powerful ovens, you can burn most bottles in one day. For maximum comfort, the classic 5-gallon tank (also known as a 20-pound tank) is a proven choice. They fit easily in the back of a pickup truck that fills almost every city and serves you lots and lots of food. Hint: Most table-top ovens only come with a 16 -ounce bottle holder, but for tanks with a larger capacity an adapter and a hose are often available.
In fact, propane begins to reduce its power as soon as the temperature drops below freezing. Butane, which is used in Coleman Butane Instastart and Kovea Cube products, is even more harmful and less accessible than propane, but the canisters are lighter and more compact (which is rather the case with backpacks). However, if you have many 4-season campsites, liquid fuels are the most reliable choice. They can be supplied as white gas, unleaded petrol, aviation fuel, kerosene or diesel. White gas is one of the best options for backpacks and single campsites in extreme conditions, but there are not many options in the style of a regular campsite. If you are an adventurer, consider a stove such as the Coleman Guide Series 424, which can run on either white gas or unleaded petrol. Liquid fuel stoves are more expensive than propane models and have no advantage in temperate conditions, so for most people propane is still the best option.
Propane heaters are most popular for car camping.
Woodburning stoves such as the BioLite CampStove 2 are also becoming increasingly popular and their charm is obvious: There’s no need to buy or take fuel cans with you – just collect branches and sticks and burn them in the camp to prepare your own food. However, these systems have more limited flame and heat control than other models, are limited during a fire ban and depend on sources that may not be available, depending on terrain and weather conditions.
Width of camp stove
The width of the stoves on the campsite varies considerably and can affect the types of cookware you can use. We love the Eureka Ignite Plus, for example, because it has a large 23-inch baking tray with medium and large pots side by side. Smaller units, such as the Coleman 424 Series guide, fit into just two 10-inch trays. If you regularly use larger pots or pans, it is a good idea to check this specification carefully before purchasing (most manufacturers and retailers publish sizes). Also, when you buy your stove for the first time, make sure that the dishes you buy fit on the surface of your appliance.
Coleman Triton fits on two 10-inch jars side by side.
Windy weather
The weather can change even in the best months, but the show has to go on. And that includes preparing a decent hot meal. The flame of any stove is sensitive to movement and wind, and it is important to find sheltered locations no matter which stove you choose. To make it easier for you, many models are equipped with a windbreak that covers all three sides of the oven. Although this kind of protection is mandatory, it will not protect you from really strong impulses. In general, we have found that the smaller the surface area, the better the wind resistance, but large freestanding stoves can be placed almost anywhere, so hopefully you can find a reasonable windbreak.
What is a piezoelectric detonator?
Piezoelectricity is a form of pressure-based ignition that is popular with campers. Instead of rushing fuel and lighting a match or pressing a lighter quickly, this form of automatic push-button ignition protects your hands from large flames. We prefer this type of ignition for reasons of extra comfort and user-friendliness, but it involves extra costs. For example, upgrading to a Coleman Triton Instat start equipped with a piezo costs 20 dollars more than the basic model. It is also true that these lighters are not perfect and often break down over time (sometimes surprisingly quickly after purchase), so always bring an extra set of matches or a lighter just in case.
It’s not a great loss for a brilliant ignition.
Control and authority
While a 20,000 BTU burner is perfect for preparing spaghetti, for products that require a little more finesse, make sure the cooker has effective cooking control. This requires fuel regulation, which does not fluctuate, and a flame that remains strong even at low temperatures. Good cooking performance is not what is normally stated in a specification, but a top model tends to perform better under these conditions. In addition, a good windscreen helps to keep the flame burning at low temperatures. The chef at Camp Everest has an excellent command of cooking, while budget stoves such as the Coleman Classic Fight. If you spend money, you increase the chance of mastering this difficult land food.
Well-designed ovens ensure precise flame control
Frying pans, grills and saucepans
The most common form of cooking is traditional two-burner cooking with a large grill. However, if you need a combined grill and stove, for example for bacon and eggs, a hybrid version such as that of Camp Chef Rainier is very attractive. Please note that part of the grill takes up about 2/3 of the surface area of the cooker, which can take up valuable space for a large pot or pan. What’s more, on ovens like Camp Chef Explorer, you can replace the top of accessories such as grill boxes or pizza ovens. Pans are loose spouts that are placed on the burners and are perfect for cooking dishes such as pancakes or grilled cheese, just like at home.
Package weight and dimensions
As with most camping equipment, the weight and size of the package is not necessarily a concern. Compared to backpack equipment, all this is heavy and bulky, but you still need to store and transport stuff. We strive for an effective balance between performance and weight, which is why we appreciate the Camp Everest chef so much. It weighs 12 pounds, is easy to fold to fit in a duffle bag and works with large, voluminous (often over 30 pounds) independent units at a time. Depending on your needs, the size of the packaging may or may not play a major role in your purchasing decision. For those who want to keep both to a minimum, the Jetboil Genesis system includes a stove, saucepan and pot and weighs less than 10 pounds.
Campsite against oven for backpacks
For those who have to choose between camping and hiking, there are several important considerations to make. In addition to their light weight and small pocket size, the backpack models have only one burner that can hold a pot or pan, which limits the space available for cooking and the types of food that can be cooked (most backpacks stick to simple dishes such as dehydrated food or stews). Moreover, backpack stoves are much more fragile, less stable and do not cook as well as camping models. If you travel close to your car, camping offers a significant increase in productivity, and the extra weight and load is likely to be of little value. However, if you regularly travel inland, the weight saving is worth the sacrifice of your cooking skills.
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