Camping offers a fantastic escape into nature, and a reliable one-burner camp stove can elevate your outdoor cooking experience. Whether you’re boiling water for coffee, simmering a hearty stew, or frying up a quick meal, the right stove makes all the difference. With so many options on the market, choosing the best one-burner camp stove can feel overwhelming.

This article explores the top 10 one-burner camp stoves for 2025, based on recent reviews, performance metrics like boil time and simmer control, portability, and durability. All recommendations are for car camping, lightweight backpacking, or minimalist setups, with key details to help you decide which stove suits your needs. Let’s dive in!

What is a One-Burner Camp Stove?

A one-burner camp stove is a portable cooking device designed for outdoor use. Unlike traditional multi-burner stoves, these stoves are lightweight, easy to transport, and ideal for simple cooking tasks. They use propane, butane, or liquid fuel, making them suitable for various environments and weather conditions.

How Does a One-Burner Camp Stove Work?

One-burner camp stoves function similarly to household gas stoves. They have a fuel source, a burner, and an ignition system. Many models feature piezo ignition, eliminating the need for matches. The flame intensity can be adjusted using a control knob, allowing users to cook with precision. Depending on the fuel type, these stoves can work efficiently at different altitudes and temperatures.

Top 10 Best One-Burner Camp Stoves for 2025

1. Snow Peak Home & Camp Butane Stove

The Snow Peak Home & Camp Butane Stove tops the list for its sleek design, impressive performance, and packability. At just over 3 pounds, it collapses into a compact size akin to a reusable water bottle, making it ideal for both car camping and minimalist backpacking. Despite its modest 8,333 BTUs, it boasts the fastest boil time among single-burner stoves, heating a liter of water in just over five minutes.

Its wide burner head distributes heat evenly, excelling at simmering rice or cooking bacon without hotspots. The easy-to-read temperature gauge and precise flame control add to its appeal. However, it’s limited to butane, which performs poorly in cold weather, so it’s best for warm-season adventures.

• Fuel Type: Butane
• BTUs: 8,333
• Weight: 3.1 lbs
• Boil Time: ~5 minutes 11 seconds per liter
• Price: ~$110

Pros: Fast boil time, excellent simmer control, lightweight, stylish
Cons: Butane-only, less effective in cold conditions

2. Camp Chef Everest Single Burner

Derived from the highly acclaimed Camp Chef Everest 2X (a two-burner favorite), this single-burner version retains the brand’s signature power and reliability. With a whopping 20,000 BTUs, it’s a beast for quick boiling and high-heat cooking, yet its broad burner design ensures excellent simmer control. The single-burner variant is ideal for solo campers or small groups needing robust performance in a compact package. It’s heavier than ultralight options, but propane compatibility makes it versatile year-round.

• Fuel Type: Propane
• BTUs: 20,000
• Weight: ~5 lbs (estimated standalone burner)
• Boil Time: ~3 minutes per liter (based on Everest 2X data)
• Price: ~$80-$100 (varies by retailer)

Pros: High BTU output, great wind resistance, durable
Cons: Heavier, bulkier than ultralight stoves

3. Jetboil Genesis Basecamp Single Burner

The Jetboil Genesis Basecamp system is renowned for its compact nesting design, but the single-burner component shines on its own. Outdoor Life’s 2025 review highlighted its impressive 3-minute, 16-second boil time at 5,000 feet, even maintaining a solid 5-minute, 19-second boil in 15 mph winds at 7,000 feet. With 10,000 BTUs, it offers precise flame control, simmering lower than most competitors before extinguishing—a boon for delicate cooking. Its Jetlink compatibility allows expansion with additional burners, making it a modular choice. The downside? The flimsy windscreen raises long-term durability concerns.

• Fuel Type: Propane
• BTUs: 10,000
• Weight: ~3 lbs (standalone burner)
• Boil Time: ~3 minutes 16 seconds per liter
• Price: ~$130 (standalone burner)

Pros: Fast boil, excellent simmer, modular design
Cons: Questionable windscreen durability

4. Coleman Bottle Top Propane Stove

Coleman’s Bottle Top Propane Stove is a budget-friendly classic for campers seeking simplicity and portability. Screwing directly onto a propane canister, it weighs under 2 pounds and delivers 10,000 BTUs with adjustable flame control. CleverWander’s 2022 review praised its stability with a wide base and ease of use for backpacking or car camping. It’s not the fastest boiler, but it’s reliable for one-pot meals or coffee. Wind baffles enhance performance in breezy conditions, though it lacks auto-ignition, requiring a match or lighter. For under $50, it’s hard to beat this value.

• Fuel Type: Propane
• BTUs: 10,000
• Weight: 1.9 lbs
• Boil Time: ~4-5 minutes per liter
• Price: ~$40

Pros: Lightweight, affordable, stable
Cons: No auto-ignition, moderate boil speed

5. Eureka! SPRK+ Butane Camp Stove

The Eureka! SPRK+ stands out for its integrated fuel design, housing the butane canister within the stove body for a streamlined setup. With 11,500 BTUs, it offers a bit more punch than its 10,000-BTU SPRK sibling, and its recessed burner provides some wind protection. REI’s 2023 review noted its stainless-steel burner and adjustable feet for leveling on uneven surfaces—perfect for car camping or tailgating. It simmers well and supports pots up to 10 inches, though butane’s cold-weather limitations apply. At $50, it’s a solid mid-range pick.

• Fuel Type: Butane
• BTUs: 11,500
• Weight: 3.5 lbs
• Boil Time: ~4 minutes per liter (estimated)
• Price: ~$50

Pros: Compact fuel design, good heat output, affordable
Cons: Butane-only, limited cold-weather use

6. MSR PocketRocket Deluxe

For ultralight backpackers, the MSR PocketRocket Deluxe is a standout. Weighing just 2.9 ounces, it’s tiny yet powerful, boiling half a liter of water in about 3.5 minutes. Its large burner head offers surprising simmer control for such a lightweight stove, making it versatile beyond just boiling water. The piezo igniter adds convenience, though it’s less durable in harsh conditions. Ideal for solo treks, it’s less suited for group cooking or larger pots due to its small size.

• Fuel Type: Isobutane-Propane
• BTUs: ~8,000 (estimated)
• Weight: 0.18 lbs (2.9 oz)
• Boil Time: ~3 minutes 30 seconds per 0.5 liters
• Price: ~$85

Pros: Ultralight, fast boil, reliable igniter
Cons: Small burner limits pot size, not for groups

7. Gas One GS-3000

The Gas One GS-3000 is a no-frills, budget-friendly option that punches above its price. The excellent simmer control and portability, making it a favorite for single-pot meals. At 9,000 BTUs, it’s not the fastest boiler, but its piezo ignition and sturdy build ensure reliability. It’s perfect for car campers or casual users who prioritize ease of use and low cost. Like other butane stoves, it struggles in cold weather, but for summer trips, it’s a steal.

• Fuel Type: Butane
• BTUs: 9,000
• Weight: 3.1 lbs
• Boil Time: ~5-6 minutes per liter
• Price: ~$30

Pros: Affordable, great simmer, easy to use
Cons: Slower boil, butane limitations

8. Coleman PowerPack Propane Stove

Another Coleman gem, the PowerPack is a compact, canister-mounted stove ideal for solo or duo campers. With 7,500 BTUs, it’s less powerful than its Bottle Top sibling, but its large burner head spreads heat evenly, excelling at simmering. It’s lightweight and stable, though its slower boil time suits patient cooks. No auto-ignition means carrying a lighter, but at under $50, it’s a dependable backup or minimalist choice.

• Fuel Type: Propane
• BTUs: 7,500
• Weight: 1.8 lbs
• Boil Time: ~6-7 minutes per liter
• Price: ~$45

Pros: Lightweight, even heat, affordable
Cons: Lower BTUs, no igniter

9. Soto Windmaster 4Flex

The Soto Windmaster 4Flex is a backpacking powerhouse, earning accolades from TGO Magazine’s 2024 Gear of the Year Awards for its fast boil times and wind resistance. At just 3 ounces, it’s ultralight, yet its regulated burner maintains performance in cold weather—ideal for year-round use. The piezo igniter is well-protected, and flame control is top-notch. It’s less suited for large pots, but for solo adventurers, it’s near-perfect.

• Fuel Type: Isobutane-Propane
• BTUs: ~11,000 (estimated)
• Weight: 0.19 lbs (3 oz)
• Boil Time: ~2 minutes 30 seconds per 0.5 liters
• Price: ~$70

Pros: Ultralight, wind-resistant, fast boil
Cons: Small size limits cookware options

10. Primus Lite+

The Primus Lite+ rounds out the list as a complete stove system, integrating a burner with a 0.5-liter pot. Telegraph’s 2024 review praised its sub-3-minute boil time for half a liter and its frying pan compatibility via removable pegs. At under a pound, it’s a lightweight all-in-one for backpackers, with a twist-lock canister and spark igniter. It’s pricier and best for small meals, but its versatility and efficiency shine.

• Fuel Type: Isobutane-Propane
• BTUs: ~4,500 (estimated)
• Weight: 0.86 lbs (13.8 oz)
• Boil Time: ~2 minutes 45 seconds per 0.5 liters
• Price: ~$120

Pros: Compact system, fast boil, versatile
Cons: Expensive, small capacity

How to Choose the Best One-Burner Camp Stove?

• Fuel Type: Propane excels in cold weather and is widely available; butane is lighter but falters below freezing. Isobutane-propane blends offer a middle ground for backpacking.
• BTUs: Higher BTUs (10,000+) mean faster boiling, but lower BTUs (7,500-9,000) can suffice with better simmer control.
• Weight: Ultralight stoves (<1 lb) suit backpacking; heavier models (2-5 lbs) work for car camping.
• Boil Time: Aim for 3-6 minutes per liter for efficiency.
• Simmer Control: Essential for cooking beyond boiling water—look for adjustable valves and wide burners.
• Portability: Compact or canister-mounted designs save space.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a One-Burner Camp Stove

1. Fuel Type: Choose between propane, butane, or liquid fuel based on your needs.
2. Weight & Portability: Consider the size and weight for backpacking or car camping.
3. Heat Output (BTUs): Higher BTUs provide more cooking power.
4. Ignition System: Piezo ignition vs. manual lighting with matches.
5. Wind Resistance: Some models include wind shields for better performance.
6. Durability & Build Quality: Stainless steel and aluminum designs last longer.
7. Price & Budget: Find a stove that balances cost with functionality.

Tips for Cooking with a One-Burner Camp Stove

• Use a windscreen to improve efficiency in windy conditions.
• Preheat your pan for better heat distribution.
• Choose the right fuel for cold or high-altitude environments.
• Keep your stove clean to prevent clogging and inefficiency.
• Bring a stable surface to set up your stove safely.

FAQs

Which Fuel Type is Best for a One-Burner Camp Stove?

Propane is best for all-weather use, butane is lightweight but struggles in cold temperatures, and liquid fuel is ideal for extreme conditions.

Can I Use a One-Burner Camp Stove Inside My Tent?

No, using a camp stove inside a tent is dangerous due to carbon monoxide buildup and fire hazards. Always cook in a well-ventilated outdoor space.

What is the Best One-Burner Stove for High-Altitude Camping?

Stoves like the MSR PocketRocket 2 or Jetboil Flash perform well at high altitudes due to their efficient fuel combustion.

How Do I Maintain My One-Burner Camp Stove?

Clean the burner after use, check fuel lines for leaks, and store it properly to extend its lifespan.

Can I Take a One-Burner Stove on an Airplane?

While stoves without fuel are typically allowed in checked luggage, fuel canisters are prohibited. Always check airline regulations before flying.

Conclusion

The best one-burner camp stove depends on your camping style. For all-around performance, the Snow Peak Home & Camp excels in warm weather, while the Camp Chef Everest Single Burner dominates with power and durability. Budget campers will love the Coleman Bottle Top or Gas One GS-3000, and ultralight backpackers should grab the MSR PocketRocket Deluxe or Soto Windmaster. Each stove on this list, updated with 2025 insights, offers unique strengths—pick one that matches your adventure, and enjoy delicious meals under the stars!