Weight Differences Between Alcohol Stoves and Canister Stoves?

Weighing the Options

When comparing the weights of alcohol stoves and canister stoves, consider the fuel and stove unit separately. Canister stoves typically weigh between 11 and 16 ounces, while alcohol stoves can range from 6 to 12 ounces, including the fuel container and stove unit. This difference is significant, especially for long-distance backpacking trips where every ounce counts.

Fuel Efficiency and Cost

Canister stokes generally offer better fuel efficiency, with a single canister lasting up to 20 hours of burn time. In contrast, alcohol stoves may require more frequent refueling, especially if they are used in cold temperatures. However, canister stoves often come with a higher upfront cost, whereas alcohol stoves and their fuels tend to be more affordable in the long run.

Real-World Examples

For instance, the MSR PocketRocket 2 weighs 3.02 ounces and requires a canister of MSR Fuel, which weighs 13.6 ounces. In contrast, the MSR WhisperLite Universal weighs 12.8 ounces, including the fuel container, and requires denatured ethanol as fuel. While the WhisperLite Universal is more fuel-efficient, the difference in weight and cost should be carefully considered when choosing a stove for solo backpacking trips.