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A great camping stove needs to be easy to use and powerful enough to boil water in a breeze, yet delicate enough to simmer a sauce without scorching it.
The stove we recommend for most campers is the Camp Chef Everest 2x. It's a powerful stove with a great windscreen and performed well across every single test metric.
If you're looking for a basic single-burner stove, we like the Gas One GS-3400P. It has great simmer control, is light, and runs off both propane and butane. Its price is unbeatable.
If you have a power bank or electricity setup, we've started to enjoy using induction stoves at camp. Our favorite is the Nuwave PIC Flex Induction Cooktop, which boils water quickly, is easy to dial in precise heat temps for simmering, and you won't have to worry about fuel cans.
Since 2012, we've tested over 50 camping stoves to find which ones actually deliver. Beyond measuring raw power, we cooked real meals to test setup, simmer control, and cleanup. What we found was somewhat surprising: BTU rating alone doesn't determine how fast they boil water, simmering ability can vary wildly, and price alone does not determine quality. Below we dive into the best camp stoves for different scenarios.
Editor's Note: On July 17, 2026, we added a couple of induction stoves to our lineup and tested a new folding two-burner stove.
The Camp Chef Everest 2x is our favorite fuel stove for camping. We love its large cooking surface, a nearly seamless windscreen, and excellent simmer performance. It delivers an impressive 20,000 BTUs per burner, making it easy to boil water or to cook with large pans, even in breezy conditions. No other traditional camping stove performed as well across so many tests and real-world camping scenarios.
SPECIFICATIONS
Total BTUs
40,000
Number of Burners
2
Cooking Surface Dimensions
21" x 9.5"
Piezo Ignitor
Yes
Measured Weight
13.97 lbs
The Everest 2x is fairly bulky and heavy. It is also fairly expensive; however, if you're willing to shell out the cash, we don't think you'll be disappointed with this stove's premium durability and great wind resistance. If your car camping rig can accommodate a slightly bulkier stove and you're looking for a powerful stove that simmers like a boss, this might be the one for you. If you want one that's a bit more compact, take a look at the Jetboil Genesis Basecamp.
We admit that making donuts at camp is a little extra, but we figured hey, why not put these stoves to the test? The Everest 2X heats frying oil to the perfect temperature. Simply toss a little water into the oil, and if it sizzles and dances, your donut will be crispy on the outside and fluffy goodness on the inside. Credit: Kate Pitts
If your camp kitchen revolves around frontcountry comfort, van life, or a dialed solar setup, the Nuwave PIC Flex Induction Cooktop is a great non-fuel option. If you have a power source, this stove will boil water faster than every gas stove in our lineup. It also shrugs off wind better than any open-flame design, and offers the kind of precise temperature control that makes simmering as precise as a home kitchen (and, bonus: you can use this as an extra burner in your home kitchen, too). Simmering sauces, dialing in pancakes, or quickly boiling water for coffee all feel more controlled here than on traditional propane burners. It is also compact enough to slide onto a picnic table, camp counter, or van galley without taking over the whole setup. If you often camp with a power source, this is an awesome option.
SPECIFICATIONS
Total BTUs
N/A
Number of Burners
1
Cooking Surface Dimensions
10"
Piezo Ignitor
N/A
Measured Weight
4.0 lbs
That said, the PIC Flex is still a niche tool compared to a traditional gas stove. It requires a substantial power source, only works with flat-bottomed induction-compatible cookware (cast iron or stainless steel — no aluminum or copper), and its biggest strength disappears if you do not already have the battery capacity or solar infrastructure to support it. Another induction stove we tested, the Duxtop 1800W Portable Induction Cooktop, offers similar functionality but is a bit less refined, with slightly slower performance and a bulkier frame. For campers already invested in portable power, the Nuwave is smaller, more intuitive, and simmers more evenly.
We used the Pic Flex on a guided trip to prepare breakfast bagels before our hike, and appreciated its speed on a day when we wanted to start early. Credit: Kate Pitts
The ODSD 2 Burner is a straightforward camp kitchen workhorse built around simplicity and value. It gives you two usable burners in a compact footprint, sets up quickly, and provides predictable heat that's more than adequate for typical campsite cooking. Our lead tester, a wilderness hiking guide, said, “I packed it in camping tubs for guided trips. It is lightweight and portable, so I could carry it into picnic areas to make gourmet group lunches. I love how fast and easy it is to set up and take down when I'm cooking for large groups.” It's the kind of stove that just gets out of the way—no learning curve, no fuss—making it a sensible pick for weekend trips and basic camp meals.
SPECIFICATIONS
Total BTUs
20,000
Number of Burners
2
Cooking Surface Dimensions
7.5" x 18"
Piezo Ignitor
Yes
Measured Weight
4.5 lbs stove alone
7.7 lbs w/ bag and extras
Where the ODSD 2 Burner shows its budget roots is in wind handling and refinement. The included windscreen works well, but you'll need to secure it well when conditions pick up. “I would brace it with heatproof weighted objects, like rocks,” comments our lead tester. Although it is good for most camp meals, the overall heat delivery lacks the punch and precision of higher-end systems. If you're looking to step up in performance and weather resistance, the Jetboil Genesis Basecamp is the cleaner, more dialed-in alternative with noticeably better control and simmering precision in real-world camp use.
The ODSD 2 Burner is compact to pack for an easy road trip picnic, and the adjustable windscreen can be adjusted for the prevailing wind direction, although you will need to anchor it down with rocks or ties if the winds are high. Credit: Kate Pitts
The Gas One GS-3400 is not only a great deal, but it's also one of the most versatile stoves in our lineup. It runs on propane or butane. You can use one unit and easily pack it, or buy a second one for a similar cooking surface and flexibility to a standard two-burner stove. The simmer control is nearly unmatched. You could buy three of them for almost the same cost as the cheapest dual-burner we tested. We generally love the convenience of butane canisters, but it's nice to have the option of using either 16-ounce green bottles or an external propane tank with a propane hose adapter (sold separately).
SPECIFICATIONS
Total BTUs
8,000
Number of Burners
1
Cooking Surface Dimensions
8.25" x 8.25"
Piezo Ignitor
Yes
Measured Weight
3.3 lbs
The Gas One has a mediocre boil time that becomes quite poor in windy conditions. That said, you can use the lid to get some wind protection, and as long as you don't boil more than half a liter at a time, we found the boil time was adequate for making coffee, hot chocolate, and ramen. Just don't plan on boiling a big pot of pasta quickly. Of all the camping stoves we keep, we end up using this the most, whether it's for camping or for making ramen in the ski resort parking lot to avoid outrageous ski lodge lunch prices.
Lock the canister and twist the knob: it doesn't get much easier to use than the GS-3400P. The simmer control is excellent. Credit: Chris McNamara
Adding the propane adapter is fairly quick and easy, but not as simple as the butane setup. Credit: Chris McNamara
The 3400P (left) next to the High Pressure (right). They look similar in size from here, but the high-pressure one is about three times the weight and takes about twice as much space to pack. It is also about eight times as powerful. Credit: Chris McNamara
The grill grate flips over for easy storage. Credit: Chris McNamara
We often use the Gas One in the back of our car to quickly heat water for coffee or Ramen. Credit: Chris McNamara
Open the side compartment, slide in the butane canister, and you are ready. Credit: Chris McNamara
The GS-3400P is all about a small burner with an easy-to-adjust flame. Credit: Chris McNamara
Looking for more than just soup heated from the can? The Coleman Cascade 3-in-1 is your go-to for bodacious outdoor chefs and grill masters. More than a stove, it is our favorite multi-use camp kitchen, doubling as a cast-iron grill and griddle. It offers a top-notch cooktop experience with the classic outdoor charm of cast-iron cooking. Cast iron is known for its even heating, durability, and ability to impart a unique smoky flavor that can tempt your friends to line up for seconds. Its versatility makes it the perfect cooktop for those who love to whip up a variety of delicious cuisines, whether lakeside or tailgating in the mountains. Plus, let's be real – food tastes better fresh off the grill, especially with a view.
SPECIFICATIONS
Total BTUs
24,000
Number of Burners
2
Cooking Surface Dimensions
22" x 13.2"
Piezo Ignitor
Yes
Measured Weight
12.95 lbs
Coleman designed the Cascade 3-in-1 for convenience. It's compact, boils water quickly, and is a breeze to clean and store. Its multi-use versatility makes it a favorite among our reviewers. While it may have smaller wind guards than some models, and its fuel efficiency may not be the highest, it still offers a convenient cooking experience. If you're looking to optimize fuel efficiency, consider the Camp Chef Mountaineer 2X and Camp Chef Pro 60X.
As the sun sets, it's the perfect time to whip up a delicious meal for famished hikers, all thanks to the easy-to-adjust heat settings of the Coleman Cascade 3-in-1. Credit: Kate Pitts
The Gas One High Pressure Burner is a sturdy, highly cost-effective powerhouse built for rapid heating. Boasting a massive six-inch burner, it delivers an incredibly fast three-and-a-half-minute boil time for a liter of water. Its wide surface and sturdy legs easily accommodate large pots, making it truly unbeatable for feeding large groups in windless conditions.
SPECIFICATIONS
Total BTUs
65000
Number of Burners
1
Cooking Surface Dimensions
10" x 10"
Piezo Ignitor
No
Measured Weight
8.0 lbs
However, this stove struggles significantly with ease of use and portability. At eight pounds, it is heavy and bulky. It lacks a built-in igniter and features awkward, tank-mounted flame controls. Furthermore, offering zero wind protection, the ultra-wide flame easily blows out while simmering and can dangerously melt narrow kettle handles. We highly recommend buying some wind screens, which cut into the ultra-bargain price of this unit.
The high power of the Gas One High Pressure. In calm conditions, this stove did not disappoint with boil time and heat output. Credit: Chris McNamara
Product Comparison Table
Testing the Gas One in Spring 2026. Even on a mostly windless day, we noticed a significant drop in performance when making delicate pancakes without a windscreen. Credit: Chris McNamara
How We Tested
Our amazing team of passionate campers, backcountry guides, and van lifers is expert at creating delicious meals in the great outdoors. They don't just settle for reheating canned soup. These adventurous foodies pack fresh ingredients to campsites and trailhead parking lots, whipping up everything from simple mac and cheese to elaborate multi-course feasts. They've braved high altitudes, cooked in challenging weather, and lived out of cars and tents for months to test the best camping stoves available in real-life conditions. After conducting countless boil and fuel-efficiency tests, they've pinpointed the models that are not only well-designed but also offer the best value. For more on our testing of these stoves, see our dedicated How We Test article.
Our rigorous testing process uses five metrics:
Boil Time (25% of overall score weighting)
Wind Resistance (25% weighting)
Simmering Ability (20% weighting)
Ease of Use (15% weighting)
Portability (15% weighting)
We hosted the “Great Camp Stove Cook-Off” to separate the burnouts from sizzling success. Credit: Kate Pitts
Why Trust GearLab
Our camping stove testing team is a solid crew of experienced car campers, foodies, and folks who love to play camp chef. This review is headed up by Mary Witlacil and Kate Pitts. Mary is an avid outdoorswoman who would always choose a dish seasoned with a little bit of trail spice (aka dirt) over a Michelin five-star meal, especially if it means falling asleep under a blanket of stars. She has spent years dialing in her backcountry cooking scene, from deluxe multi-course car-camping meals to prepping expedition meals for multi-week backpacking trips. This gal loves playing outside almost as much as she loves cooking outside. You'll find her romping around the Western US, rock climbing and perfecting her backcountry culinary skills.
Formerly a backcountry ranger for the National Park Service, Kate has cooked hundreds of meals for hungry hikers on and off the clock. No matter the conditions, she loves how a good meal lifts the spirits. Now, she shares her love for the outdoors by guiding and teaching yoga in Yosemite and is passionate about how food brings people together in nature. After a full day of hiking, climbing, or paddling, she enjoys how the air fills with laughter and stories around a bubbling pot of soup or a whistling kettle. She intends to share joy when she rolls up her sleeves in the camp kitchen and says, "May you enjoy a delicious meal under the open sky with the beings you love!"
Our testers know how to figure out which gear is up for the task of taking great cooking to the great outdoors.
Analysis and Test Results
To determine the final scores, we conducted months of head-to-head testing, prioritizing boil time and wind resistance as the most critical indicators of power, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. Simmering ability and ease of use remain essential performance metrics for outdoor cooking, and portability can often be a factor for many buyers. We distinguish between different testing criteria so you can make an informed decision based on the pros and cons of each model.
Worse Value
Better Value
What's the Best Value?
The Gas One GS-3400P is not only the least expensive stove in our review but also offers nearly unmatched ease of use and versatility. Weighing only 3.3 pounds, this highly portable stove can use butane for portability or hook up to your larger propane tank for better cost-effectiveness and cold-weather performance. It is significantly cheaper than similar-performing stoves like the Coleman Butane Instastart.
At just $30, the Gas One High Pressure Burner offers exceptional value for those needing massive power on a budget. Boasting 65,000 BTUs and a sturdy 6-inch burner, this cost-effective powerhouse boils a liter of water in under three and a half minutes, making it perfect for feeding big groups. When paired with the GS-3400P, you get two burners that offset each other's weaknesses for under $60.
Two of the best value options side by side: the GS-3400P left and the Gas One High Pressure (right). Credit: Chris McNamara
The ODSD 2 Burner is the best value for a compact two-burner and includes a grill plate, wind screen, coffee stand, and carrying bag for under $100. The Coleman Cascade Classic is a decent value among the full-sized two-burner stoves. It is an affordable, entry-level stove with impressive fuel efficiency and straightforward operation. It features a reliable piezo igniter, adjustable windscreens, and precise simmer control, perfect for budget-conscious car campers. Both the ODSD and the Coleman Cascade Classic have 2 10,000 BTU burners, which result in slower boil times, but they're highly portable, fuel-conserving alternatives to power-hungry models like the Camp Chef Everest 2X.
The ODSD is a great workhorse that folds up and fits easily into a camping tub. It weighs just over 7 pounds with all its accessories. Credit: Kate Pitts
With adjustable windscreens, the Coleman Cascade can accommodate larger pots or provide better wind protection. Lucky them, our testers have been doing side-by-side comparisons for years, and have cooked a lot of excellent food in the process. Credit: Jared Ross
The Real Money Saver: Ditch the Green Bottles for a 5 lb Propane Tank
The best way to save money on every camping stove is to replace the disposable Coleman 16 oz Propane Bottle ($25–$40/gal) with a refillable 5-lb propane tank, which holds five times more fuel at a fraction of the cost ($3–$5/gal). While a standard 5-gallon tank is heavy (37 pounds) and bulky, the 5-pound model offers the perfect balance of portability and performance, paying for itself after just 1 refill while keeping empty canisters out of landfills. You will also need a propane hose adapter.
Boil Time
Theoretically, the more power a stove has, the better it boils and the more efficiently you can slay your camp feast. The burners in your home kitchen likely have 12,000-18,000 BTUs on the high end (but can be dialed down to as low as 4,000 BTUs). The stoves in our review range from 9,000 BTUs to a shocking 30,000 BTUs per burner. What became apparent during our boil tests, however, is that BTU ratings aren't everything. Smart design can boost your cooking power.
In our windless garage “lab” at 5,000 feet, we assess boil time by measuring how long each stove takes to boil a 1-liter kettle of 58°F water. Then we conduct the same test using a box fan and a pocket anemometer to ensure we blasted the stoves with 2-4 mph of constant “wind.” To rank each stove, we take the average of its test results. While this test cannot directly replicate the variability, intermittence, and multidirectionality of wind gusts in the outdoors, it does provide insight into how each model performs in the presence of constantly moving air.
Time to Boil 1 Liter of Water
Boil Time (no wind)
Boil Time (2-4 mph wind from a box fan)
Average Boil Time (wind + no wind)
Score
Nuwave PIC Flex Induction Cooktop
0.8 min
2.8 min
1.8 min
1
2
3
4
5
Camp Chef Everest 2X
3.4 min
3.8 min
3.6 min
1
2
3
4
5
Gas One High Pressure Burner
3.5 min
3.8 min
3.7 min
1
2
3
4
5
Duxtop 1800W Portable Induction Cooktop
2.8 min
5.2 min
4 min
1
2
3
4
5
Camp Chef Mountaineer 2X
4.1 min
4.8 min
4.5 min
1
2
3
4
5
Coleman Cascade 3-in-1
4.4 min
4.6 min
4.5 min
1
2
3
4
5
Camp Chef Pro 60X (Pro 14)
3.9 min
5.7 min
4.8 min
1
2
3
4
5
Coleman Triton
5.4 min
5.6 min
5.5 min
1
2
3
4
5
ODSD 2 Burner
4.9 min
6.9 min
5.9 min
1
2
3
4
5
Primus Kinjia
4.3 min
8.5 min
6.4 min
1
2
3
4
5
Coleman Cascade Classic
5.4 min
7.9 min
6.7 min
1
2
3
4
5
Jetboil Genesis Basecamp
4.5 min
7.5 min
6.9 min
1
2
3
4
5
Gas One 3400P
5.3 min
14 min
9.7 min
1
2
3
4
5
GSI Pinnacle Pro 2
6.6 min
15 min
10.8 min
1
2
3
4
5
In our windless test, all the stoves boiled water in less than 7 minutes. For boiling speed, it is impossible to beat the induction stoves, which are powered by electricity. The Nuwave PIC Flex rocked the category with an astoundingly fast 46-second boil time. Induction stoves boil water quickly by heating the cookware directly using a magnetic field rather than heating a burner first and then transferring that heat. With very little energy lost to the air or surrounding surface, more of the power goes straight into the pot, which speeds up the rise in temperature. The Duxtop, another induction model we tested, also brought a kettle to a boil quickly, clocking in at 2 minutes, 47 seconds.
To evaluate wind resistance, we use a box fan to simulate wind, and measure how long it takes for each stove to boil 1 liter of water in our trusty kettle. Credit: Mary Witlacil
The Nuwave induction stove boiled water in seconds, not minutes. Credit: Kate Pitts
The Camp Chef Everest 2x averaged a boil time of 3 minutes and 21 seconds between both tests. The Gas One High Pressure Burner also knocked out a quick boil time, under four minutes with wind and without. Some stoves, though, struggled more in the wind, which dragged their boil time averages down. The Gas One 3400P and GSI Pinnacle Pro 2 both suffered in the wind, taking 14 and 15 minutes to boil, respectively — far longer than their windless boil times (between 5 and 7 minutes).
Look at that large burner! With the right camping stove, you won't have to wait long to bring your water to a boil or have your oil sizzling for the perfect stir-fry. Credit: Kate Pitts
While there is some correlation between boil time and BTUs, this doesn't tell the whole story. High BTUs don't always correlate with faster boil times in the wind. For example, the Camp Chef Pro 60X's powerful 5-inch burners (30,000 BTUs each!) are surrounded by so much open space that they are more affected by variable wind speeds, especially when the flames are low. Freestanding stoves often require high-power burners to compensate for the open space and the distance between the burners and the cooktop. On the other hand, the impermeable burner design of the Everest 2x and the Mountaineer made a clear difference in wind protection, allowing for fast boil times with lower-output burners, regardless of the circumstances.
With tight windscreens and slightly recessed burners, the Everest 2x delivered unbeatable performance in the wind. Credit: Kate Pitts
The Mountaineer has burners nestled deep in the frame, which combined with thick windscreens, help this stove offer great wind resistance. Credit: Jared Ross
Stoves with lower BTUs that feature tight, well-sealed windscreens and burners situated close to the cooking grates did much better in both our wind resistance and boil tests. Conversely, lower-powered stoves without windscreens often struggled to boil water quickly. If you boil your water in a separate device like a Jetboil, boil times may not matter so much to you. But a faster boil generally means quicker meals, faster coffee, broader versatility, and more efficient fuel use.
Wind Resistance
Real-world outdoor cooking rarely occurs in calm conditions, and even light gusts can disrupt flame stability, reduce heat output, and significantly increase cooking times.
We tested each stove in controlled gusty conditions using a box fan, allowing us to compare how well burners stayed lit, how effectively heat was maintained, and how much efficiency dropped as wind exposure increased. This approach highlights which stoves can handle variable weather and still perform reliably when the hiker hunger hits, or your crew is ready for a hot meal at camp. We also used these stoves in real-world camping scenarios, and part of our wind resistance scoring is based on stove features that help block wind.
Wind has almost no direct impact on induction cooking because there's no flame to blow around to reduce efficiency. Instead, heat is generated in the cookware itself, which stays consistent even in exposed or gusty conditions, making induction one of the most wind-stable cooking methods available for camp use. The Nuwave PIC Flex scores highest for wind resistance. With no open flame, wind has virtually no effect on heat delivery, flame stability, or efficiency. Even under strong, consistent airflow in our testing, both it and the Duxtop maintained stable output. Just remember, these stoves require a power source.
Even with the induction stoves, boil times increased slightly with wind, with a boil time of 2 minutes 36 seconds. Still, the Nuwave induction stove will toot your kettle minutes faster than any flame burner. Credit: Kate Pitts
Of the gas stoves, the Camp Chef Everest 2X has one of the best windy boil times at 3 minutes 45 seconds. That performance comes from a more protected burner layout that tucks the flame deeper into the stove body, reducing direct wind exposure compared to fully open designs. The integrated windscreen structure and partial shielding around the burner help keep the flame stable and concentrated, so heat isn't as easily stripped away by crosswinds.
We tested the Everest 2X for a guided group of thirteen in 30 MPH wind gusts at a Joshua Tree campground. Even when gusts were consistent, the stove maintained a tight, efficient flame pattern, which is what kept boil times competitive in real-world conditions. Credit: Kate Pitts
The Camp Chef Mountaineer 2X handles wind better than most propane stoves, thanks to its high-output burners and a three-sided windscreen that helps protect and stabilize the flame.
The Mountaineer's windscreens are tall and rigid enough to block crosswinds and help funnel heat upward, improving flame stability and cooking efficiency without fully enclosing the stove. Notice the recessed burners and fully protective back panel. Credit: Jared Ross
The ODSD 2 Burner, paired with its included windscreen, handles breezy conditions better than most budget stoves. The standalone windscreen does the bulk of the work, shielding both burners and keeping the flame stable even in steady gusts. In stronger wind, we had to secure or lightly weigh the windscreen with rocks to keep it from blowing over. You'll still see some heat loss and slower boil times as wind wraps around the edges, but at the price point, we were impressed with its overall performance in wind.
We tested the boil time with and without the windscreen. This video demonstrates how the flame blows sideways without the windscreen, which accounts for the two-minute improvement in boil time when the windscreen is added. Credit: Kate Pitts
Unsurprisingly, models with an L-shaped windscreen or no windscreen at all had considerable trouble in windy conditions. Open, airy design around the burners means wind can swoop in and extinguish the flames, requiring (potentially constant) relighting. We also noticed that the powerful freestanding models performed well under the constant “wind” simulated in our box-fan test, but at windy campsites, these stoves sometimes struggled to withstand breezes blowing from every direction.
While the L-shaped wind screens on the GSI Pinnacle Pro 2 create more space for cookware handles, they fail to provide sufficient wind resistance. Credit: Mary Witlacil
When a stove design lacks wind resistance, there is little you can do other than use your vehicle as a wind shelter or build a wind barrier with rocks. However, in certain cases, you can make a windscreen from an aluminum baking dish or purchase a basic aluminum windscreen like the kind that comes with some backpacking stoves. This is a great way to increase the efficiency of a single-burner butane stove like the Gas One GS-3400P. These windscreens are inexpensive, lightweight, and flexible, making them a great way to improve your stove's performance on windy days. If you use a DIY windscreen, do not fully enclose your fuel canister, as this could cause it to overheat dangerously.
Simmering Ability
Simmering requires finesse, allowing food to cook slowly at a steady temperature without charring or crusting. While often overlooked in favor of raw BTU output, a stove's simmering capability is critical for achieving home-range results and enhancing the flavors of delicate dishes.
Even if you don't plan to do gourmet cooking, a stove's simmering performance is a vital metric for both performance and value. High-quality low-heat control translates directly to better fuel efficiency, saving you money on canisters and propane over the long term. Beyond fuel savings, a reliable simmer prevents scorched pans (easier cleanup!) and provides the critical timing flexibility needed to manage multi-component meals without burning your main dish. Maybe you have a curry that's way ahead of your rice — a low simmer allows you to keep a dish warm without overcooking while you wait for other things to finish cooking or for your campmate to finish pitching the tent.
Induction stoves are in a different league than flame cooktops for simmering because they deliver precise, instantly adjustable heat that, unlike gas, doesn't drift with wind, fuel pressure, or ambient temperature. That tight control makes it easy to maintain a true low simmer without scorching or boiling over, even in variable outdoor conditions. The PIC Flex handles simmering well because its temperature-based controls let you set and hold a low range (typically around 100–200°F) rather than guessing with flame or cycling heat.
The Pic Flex maintains a steady, gentle heat that’s especially useful for sauces, grains, or toasting bread. Adjustments are quick and easy if you need to nudge the simmer up or down. Credit: Kate Pitts
The other induction stove we tested, the Duxtop, gives precise control for low, steady simmering once you move past the full-power boil range. Instead of big swings, step the wattage down to 200–400W (or use low-temperature settings around 140–180°F) and adjust in small increments until you find that quiet, stable heat.
Use the Duxtop 1800W touch controls to step down heat in small increments until you reach a steady low wattage or temperature range for a true fine simmer. The instant response lets you dial in gentle, consistent heat without boil-over, flash burns, or cycling. Credit: Kate Pitts
The open-flame models that performed best in the simmering category are the Everest 2x and the Jetboil Genesis Basecamp. These stoves had better simmer control than some gas ranges in home kitchens. We also favored the Cascade 3-in-1, with its easy-to-adjust dials that could fry the perfect egg or simmer a curry. This versatile stove also comes with grill and griddle attachments.
Even while tailgating, the Everest 2X offers excellent flame precision similar to your home stove, providing gentle, steady heat for slow and even cooking of flavorful cuisine. Credit: Jared Ross
Do you love perfectly toasted Sammies? The Cascade 3-in-1 has a cast iron grill and griddle that will wow your taste buds at summer picnics. Credit: Kate Pitts
While the GSI Pinnacle Pro 2 has slightly less power, it offers excellent simmering for cooking delicate meals with finesse. The Mountaineer is also noteworthy for its impressive flame power (30,000 BTUs per burner). Yet, it's still nimble enough to deliver a consistently low flame for simmering rice, sauces, or delicately cooked scrambled eggs. The capacity to simmer is not necessarily a make-or-break category for people interested in getting food to the “hot” stage to stave off hiker hunger. If you decide to go with a stove based on other metrics and still need to simmer, you can always use a heat diffuser to create distance between the flame and your cookware.
Although the Mountaineer can produce high heat, the fine dial allows you to adjust the flame slowly and gently for infusing intense flavors. Credit: Jared Ross
The ODSD 2 Burner offers better low-end control than many budget camp stoves, with the ability to dial down to a light simmer that can hold a gentle bubble. That said, the flame isn't perfectly even and can show occasional flicker, so it's more “managed low heat” than true precision simmering.
We tested the ODSD 2 Burner in a guided camp kitchen accommodating thirteen people in 2026, alongside our top award-winning stoves. It performs well with basic dishes. However, it's more sensitive to wind and less capable of precise heat adjustments compared to higher-end stoves that excel in simmer control. Credit: Kate Pitts
Ease of Use
The easier the product is to use, the more likely you are to use it. While car camping stoves are easier to set up than their old-school liquid fuel backpacking counterparts, some are more intuitive than others.
Induction stoves like the Pic Flex and Duxtop are easy to operate with a digital interface and easy to clean. They also require compatible cookware—pots and pans made from magnetic materials like cast iron or stainless steel—since the heat is generated directly in the metal. If a magnet doesn't stick to the bottom, it won't work on an induction cooktop. And, of course, you'll need to power them somehow, so if you don't have a power source as part of your camp setup, this type of stove isn't the one for you.
Induction stoves are practical for campers and vans because they don't have an open flame, are easy to store, and offer the simmering abilities you want for a home kitchen. Credit: Kate Pitts
The Mountaineer earned top marks in this category because it has an auto-igniter and a straightforward process for moving from stowed to cooking a meal. The regulator port on this stove is external, so it's easier to avoid smashing the delicate brass threads. Instead of blindly threading the adapter into the port, the two attach within your field of view, which reduces the likelihood of cross-threading. The Jetboil Genesis Basecamp has many of the same features with a great external regulator port, but it earned lower marks because the windscreen is difficult to attach. However, both stoves are straightforward to clean, and even the Basecamp is easy to use with time.
We appreciate the Camp Chef Mountaineer's external regulator port, which is easier to attach than the typical recessed ports. Credit: Jared Ross
The Camp Chef Everest 2X is easy to use, set up, and clean. It is an example of how simple every tabletop stove should be. The windscreens snap into place easily, the cooking grate lifts out for easy cleaning, it is simple enough to pair the regulator with its port (though we would prefer an external connector), and the auto-igniter worked consistently throughout our testing. Many of the other tabletop stoves earned similar ratings in our review, but the Everest 2X was among our favorites - easy to use out of the box, and it delivered high performance every time.
The Everest 2X is a top-notch stove that's easy to use and care for - a true champion in the camping stove world. Credit: Jared Ross
The Primus Kinjia also garnered top marks in this category because this is the only compact 2-burner we tested with a pre-attached fuel hose, so no fussing with screwing a metal adapter in place. It also comes with a unique stand to hold the fuel bottle at the correct angle after you screw it onto the hose. A benefit of this system is that you can then set the fuel bottle in a different location as long as it's in range of the hose. A potential issue is that it's a separate piece that can get lost. However, its wooden handle, which also serves as the opening lever, isn't the most intuitive, but there are directions printed on the stove to help.
This stove has a unique fuel setup with a flexible hose and a separate fuel canister stand to keep it at the correct angle. Credit: Penney Garrett
The Coleman Cascade 3-in-1 has a removable grate, which makes cleaning the cooktop simple to wipe clean. The cast iron attachments come in a separate bag that helps keep them organized and dust-free. Seasoning the cast iron will preserve it for years and prevent rust from building on the surface.
The grate can be lifted for easy cleaning of the Cascade 3-in-1, and we recommend seasoning the cast iron attachments to prevent rust. Credit: Kate Pitts
Most tabletop stoves are easy to clean and care for because they are designed to meet similar maintenance requirements. Cleaning is often as easy as lifting off the cooking grate to wipe underneath. However, on most models, the drip tray is not removable, or there are holes in it where food and grease can fall beneath. The Kinjia and Gas One GS-3400P are slightly easier to maintain because you can fully remove the drip pan to clean every internal component.
The directions for use are printed directly on the side of the single-burner butane GS-3400P. Such easy access to directions makes it incredibly straightforward for a new user to jump in and help out if needed.
The instructions are printed on the side of the Gas One GS-3400P. Credit: Chris McNamara
The ODSD 2 Burner stands out for its long, flexible fuel hose, which gives you a lot of freedom in positioning the stove within your camp kitchen setup. It keeps the fuel canister out of the way and makes it easier to dial in a clean, functional layout in tight or organized spaces.
One of our favorite features of the ODSD 2 is its long, flexible hose, which can wrap around tables and shelves in your camp kitchen to connect to your fuel source. Credit: Kate Pitts
The compact Coleman Triton lacks an auto-ignite feature, so don't forget your matches. However, Coleman also makes the Coleman Triton Plus, which has a built-in igniter. We previously tested the Triton Plus, but the non-Plus model is more readily available and slightly cheaper, so if you don't mind forgoing an auto-ignite, the stoves are otherwise nearly identical.
The Coleman Triton is a portable and lightweight option, and is lit with a lighter or match. Credit: Kate Pitts
Portability
Camping stoves come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and weights. Portability won't matter for some, but for folks with smaller cars or space constraints in a built-out van or truck, this is a critical element to consider. Storage space is important, but you also want to consider usable burner space to ensure you have enough room for your favorite pots, skillets, and other accessories.
The Gas One GS-3400P is a compact, lightweight stove with a plastic carrying case. It weighs just 4.1 pounds and is 14" x 12" x 3.5".
When folded up, the Jetboil Genesis Basecamp measures just 9.7" in diameter and 4.5" high on its own, or 11" x 6" in its handy carrying bag, which has a pocket for stashing the fuel adapter. The flexible plastic windscreen wraps around the bag's interior perimeter. With or without a bag, transportation with the Basecamp is a breeze; after folding the stove, the bottom handle tucks away when not in use. The cherry on top is that it weighs a mere 7.4 pounds, bag and all, making it a ridiculously lightweight option for a two-burner car-camping setup.
The Basecamp is a highly portable stove - it's lightweight, low-profile, and comes with a handy carrying bag. Credit: Penney Garrett
The ODSD 2 Burner folds in half similarly to the Jetboil Genesis Basecamp and is quite easy to transport. It weighs 4.5 pounds on its own and 7.7 pounds with the included bag and accessories, with a compact packed size of 10.6" x 9.1" x 5.12". We could easily stash it into a camping tub, and it's also light and small enough that we could comfortably carry it on short hikes to picnic grounds without it feeling cumbersome.
The ODSD's folding design, low weight, and carrying bag made it easy to store and transport.
The Cascade 3-in-1 has a slim profile for camping with a packed size of 22" x 12" x 4." We enjoyed the recessed handle and how easy it was to carry. The added accessories are heavy because they are cast iron, but they can always be left for longer treks to your picnic spot.
The recessed handle of the Cascade 3-in-1 makes it easy to grab on the go to an epic dinner spot. Credit: Kate Pitts
The Pinnacle Pro is one of the slimmest two-burner camping stoves on the market. With dimensions of 20" x 12.4" x 1.4", it will stow away in much tighter spaces than other stoves in our review. However, there is no carrying handle, and it's too compact to store its regulators inside the stove body.
The Pinnacle Pro had one of the trimmest profiles of any stove we tested (so trim that there is no space to store the regulator). Credit: Mary Witlacil
Induction stoves are normally portable, but since they require electricity, they are not the best option for every camper. An ideal camp setup for an induction stove includes a battery bank with a built-in inverter paired with solar panels to keep it charged, or a van system with integrated power and charging. Stoves like the Pic Flex and Duxtop give you a reliable, fuel-free way to run your cooktop with steady, controllable heat wherever you set up, but make sure to factor in whatever electricity source you're using, which may make them less portable.
The Pic Flex is small and portable, but must be connected to an external power source. Here we used it with a charge station, which can be hooked up to a portable solar setup. Credit: Kate Pitts
How to Choose a Camping Stove
Before buying a camp stove, consider what type matches your cooking style. Do you need a stove for dirtbag efficiency to “heat and eat before the peak?” Maybe you are looking for a backcountry kitchen matched to your culinary genius so you can wow friends at the campground. No matter your outdoor culinary ambitions, we have insights on the best stove for your needs. Here's a summary of the main points from our buying advice guide:
What style of stove fits your camp kitchen?
Are you cooking for yourself (or your better half) on the road, or are you cooking to feed an army of hungry campers? The best stove(s) give you space to cook up a delicious smorgasbord for the mouths you feed. To meet the needs of solo vagabonds and expedition camp chefs alike, we group camp stoves into two categories: freestanding and tabletop. Freestanding stoves rise on their own two legs and make their own table, making them ideal for cookouts on the beach. They are a good option if you often don't have a tailgate or picnic table, although they are heavier than tabletop stoves and require more elbow grease to carry to your picnic spot. Freestanding stoves are ideal for large groups or setting up a long-term camp kitchen.
Free standing stoves create a spacious outdoor kitchen for treating your friends to dinner with a view. Credit: Mary Witlacil
If you are car camping or cooking for a small group, tabletop stoves fit better in your road trip storage bins. Tabletop stoves are compact and lightweight, so they are not a burden to carry to a secret wilderness picnic. They are ideal for groups of four or fewer and can be used on their own. In the outdoors, where the weather can change, they often offer superior wind resistance compared to freestanding stoves and are easier to pack up if you have to take a rain check.
How many burners do you need?
The next consideration for your ideal camp stove is how many burners you need. If you have larger groups, freestanding stoves can come in two to three burners, giving you more cooking space. Tabletop stoves can still be a good option if you set up multiple stations, which prevents “too many cooks in the kitchen” and offers more burners for the group to cook on. Our best pro tip is to check the cooking dimensions of the stove you intend to buy to match the fit of your pot and pan set. A one-burner stove can be great for minimalist cooking, but two to three-burner stoves can open up possibilities for multi-dish potlucks.
What fuel is best, and how much power do you need?
The standard camp stove uses propane; most models we tested have a propane adapter that attaches to the standard green 16-ounce propane canisters. These canisters are readily available at convenience stores, gas stations, and outdoor retailers. If you want a more economical fuel source, you don't have to refill for weekend warrior adventures, buy a hose and adaptor for a 5-gallon tank you can refill.
Many stoves use 16-oz. propane canisters that can last you for a weekend adventure. Credit: Kate Pitts
Companies measure stove power in BTUs (British Thermal Units), and a higher BTU rating correlates with greater heat output. In addition to power, design features significantly influence the heat the burner can provide to your pots and pans. Features like broad wind screens boost a stove's heat retention, so the data our testers collect in our boil tests helps us identify designs that optimize heat efficiency.
What features should you consider?
Wind guards are essential if you plan on cooking outdoors. The wind through the pines sounds beautiful, but it can blow a flame around. A stove with beefy windscreens or burners recessed in the cooktop can keep you cooking in stormy weather. Broad, rectangular windscreens that protect three sides of the burner create a better shield than low L-shaped side bars.
When your picnic table is wind whipped, the Everest 2X buckles down with excellent wind guards so your kettle whistles for tea-time in a jiffy. Credit: Kate Pitts
Another feature to consider is simmering ability. When you want to cook a pancake, having a stove that blasts out too little heat and leaves your flapjacks gooey inside, or too much heat and blackens their bottoms, is a bummer. Knobs that let you dial in heat settings intuitively will enable you to simmer soups and sauces to perfection and provide even heat for perfectly crisped eggs, bacon, and burgers. We meticulously test each model's precision to find camp stoves suitable for your inner pro chef in your outdoor kitchen.
Food, glorious food! You don't need a dinner reservation to have some of the most memorable meals of your life. Credit: Kate Pitts
This freestanding powerhouse offers incredible value for anyone cooking for large groups. Its standout feature is the sheer muscle of its dual 30,000 BTU burners, which easily accommodate massive 14-inch pans. Despite all that intense heat, the dials finesse beautifully, giving you precise simmer control for delicate meals without burning them. The legs are removable, offering the versatility to use it as a standalone station or a tabletop stove for tailgating.
However, its open, airy design is vulnerable to wind, and without a proper windscreen, a stiff breeze can easily blow out the flames. Furthermore, it lacks an auto-ignition system, meaning you'll need a long lighter to start it—and you'll need to temporarily move hot pans aside to relight it if the wind puts it out. It's also quite bulky and can develop minor rust if left outside unprotected under the elements.
If you want similar cooking prowess in a traditional tabletop design, the Camp Chef Everest 2X is a major upgrade. While its 20,000-BTU burners are technically less powerful, the Everest 2X actually boils water faster in breezy conditions thanks to an excellent, nearly seamless three-sided windscreen. It also solves the Explorer's biggest annoyance by including a highly reliable push-button auto-igniter. Though it is heavy for a compact stove at roughly 14 pounds, it's vastly more portable and weather-resistant than the bulky Explorer.
This stove's biggest appeal is right in its name: it's a lightweight, uniquely foldable camping stove that makes packing and transport a breeze. If you're tight on car space, its compact, stow-away design and easy-to-clean surfaces are undeniably convenient. Unfortunately, this stove's fatal flaw is the sheer distance between the cooking grates and its relatively weak 10,000 BTU burners, which results in frustratingly slow cooking times, and there is no wind protection. Even a mild morning breeze rendered the stove nearly useless, failing to boil water after 25 minutes or even to heat food properly. Despite its affordable price tag, these glaring reliability issues make it tough to recommend over better-performing competitors, like the ODSD 2-Burner, which has a similar folding design but much better boil times than the Fold N Go.
This is a single-burner stove that's great for casual campers looking to cook simple, fuss-free meals. Just lock the fuel canister into the side compartment and turn the dial to ignite. The flame is highly adjustable and excels at simmering without scorching your food. Plus, butane fuel is generally cheaper and slightly more efficient than propane. However, this stove's modest 7,650 BTU output took five minutes to boil water in ideal conditions—and over 21 minutes in a breeze, since it lacks a windscreen. Also, butane struggles in freezing temperatures, meaning you'll need to physically warm the canister before cooking in cold weather. Overall, we recommend the similar Gas One GS-3400, which offers comparable performance yet has propane compatibility and is around half the price.
We tested a previous version of this stove and enjoyed its portability (fairly slim and under 10 pounds) and easy maintenance (it's a breeze to clean up). However, it performs best in calm weather and didn't do super well in our windy boil test, taking nearly 3x longer to boil in windy conditions. We also found the stove to run hot, and it was somewhat difficult to achieve a good simmer. The latest iteration of the Selkirk features more powerful burners, from 10,000 BTUs each to 14,000 BTUs per burner.
Conclusion
Choosing the right camping stove depends on three main factors: burner count, design (freestanding vs. tabletop), and your specific cookware needs. These choices are driven by your available space, group size, and cooking style. Our rigorous testing is designed to help you navigate these options to find the best match for your budget and appetite.
