Canister Stove vs Liquid Fuel Stove

Stove weight—Winner: Canister Stove

When it comes to stove weight, canister stoves take the gold medal. They are typically lighter and more compact than liquid fuel stoves. Comparing the weight of just the stoves themselves is an easy way to make a decision when buying. However, don’t forget that the total weight you carry in the field, including fuel and containers, is equally important. So while canister stoves may be lighter, it’s worth considering the full picture before making a final decision.

Fuel weight—No clear winner

When it comes to fuel weight, things get more interesting. While a single canister weighs less than a liquid fuel bottle, carrying multiple canisters can add up to more weight than a liquid fuel bottle. If you’re going on a short trip that requires minimal cooking, canisters are the way to go. However, for a longer trip where you’ll need to use the stove frequently, carrying a larger bottle of liquid fuel is the better option. In the long run, the weight you save with liquid fuel can offset the lighter weight of the canister stove. Of course, every trip is unique, so consider your personal fuel usage habits, the number of times you’ll need to cook, and the conditions you’ll be facing. Also, keep in mind that you’ll have to carry empty canisters with you for the remainder of your trip.

Cold temperatures—Winner: Liquid fuel stove

When it comes to cold temperatures, liquid fuel stoves are the clear champions. They are designed to perform well in cold conditions. Some remote burner liquid fuel stoves were created for mountaineers who needed a dependable stove at high altitudes.

In cold weather, canister stoves struggle due to low canister pressure. While some climbers can use them in cold, high places by carefully managing the temperature of the canister, these stoves still face significant challenges. Pressure-regulated canister stoves offer better performance in cold conditions with basic temperature management of the canister, but still can’t compete with liquid fuel stoves. That’s why liquid fuel stoves remain the go-to option for cold weather camping and mountaineering.

Environmental impact—Winner: Liquid fuel stove

When it comes to environmental impact, liquid fuel stoves are the clear winners. They require less energy input and offer a more eco-friendly way to cook outdoors. The key to their sustainability is the reusable fuel bottle.

While spent fuel canisters can be recycled as mixed metal, not all recycling programs accept them, and even fewer are equipped to process them. You can find out if your local municipality has a program that collects and recycles used canisters. So, if you’re looking for an environmentally friendly option, consider using a liquid fuel stove or recycling your fuel canisters.

Maintainance—Winner: Canister Stove

When it comes to maintenance, canister stoves are the clear winners. They are incredibly low-maintenance and can reliably run for decades with practically zero upkeep required. While liquid fuel stoves are also known for their reliability, they do require more maintenance.

Depending on the conditions and the fuel you use, you may need to perform maintenance on your liquid fuel stove every couple of years or a few times per year. Fortunately, these stoves are generally easy to work on, and the cleaning process is straightforward. So, if you’re looking for a stove that requires minimal maintenance, a canister stove may be the way to go.

Economy—No clear winner

When it comes to the economy of backpacking stoves, the decision is not as simple as comparing the initial cost of the stove. Canister stoves are usually less expensive, but the fuel they use is often much more costly than liquid fuel. For example, one hour of cooking on a canister stove can set you back $6.00, while an hour of cooking on liquid fuel may be as low as $1.50. If you plan on using your stove frequently, the low operating cost of liquid fuel stoves makes them a better investment in the long run. On the other hand, if you only use your stove occasionally, canister fuel may be a more economical choice. It really depends on how often and how much you plan on using your stove.

Fuel availability—No clear winner

When it comes to choosing between a canister stove and a liquid fuel stove, fuel availability is a crucial factor. Canister fuel can be found in many places, but not everywhere. If you plan on exploring remote areas or countries off the beaten path, a liquid fuel stove like WhisperLite International is your best bet since liquid fuel is readily available almost everywhere. That said, you can easily find canister fuel in regions like North America, Patagonia, the Himalayas, Pakistan, and Europe. Ultimately, the decision on which stove to go for depends on your preferences, your destination, and your trip’s nature. While it might not be a straightforward choice to make, there are plenty of great options to consider for everyone.

Canister stove vs Liquid fuel backpacking stove—Scenarios to consider

Are you planning a backpacking trip but can’t decide between a canister stove or a liquid fuel stove? Here are some scenarios to help you choose:

Weekend Backpacker

If you’re heading out for a 2-3 day backpacking trip, the PocketRocket 2 canister stove is a great option. It’s lightweight, compact, and perfect for cooking simple meals like freeze-dried dinners, pasta, or instant rice. You’ll only need one or two canisters of fuel, so you won’t have to carry much weight into the field.

Extended Backpacker

If you’re going on a longer trip and need to reduce your pack weight, the WhisperLite liquid fuel stove is the way to go. Although it’s heavier than a canister stove, it offers fuel efficiency that will save weight over the course of a longer trip. It’s also great for larger groups who want to do more cooking with a single stove.

Alpine Climber

If you’re an alpine climber who needs a stove that is fast, compact, and efficient, the Reactor stove system is the best choice. Stove systems are convenient to use, can be set up quickly, and perform well in windy conditions. They’re not as lightweight as conventional canister stoves, but the fuel efficiency saves weight when you’re melting snow and cooking in windy places.

Mountaineer

For mountaineering trips, the XGK EX liquid fuel stove is the top pick. It has the speed and power to melt snow at any altitude and any temperature. Its liquid fuel efficiency makes it a weight-saver over the course of longer trips, and it’s reliable and easy to maintain in the field. The XGK can run on a variety of fuels, making it a versatile choice for expeditions to the greater ranges or to cold regions like Antarctica.