Choosing the right camping stove can be a daunting task, with a vast array of options available at different price points. This review pits three contenders against each other: the premium Jetboil Flash, the mid-range Highlander Blade Fast Boil Mark 2, and a surprisingly capable budget-friendly wildcard from eBay. We put these stoves to the test, comparing their boiling times, build quality, ease of use, and overall value. This head-to-head comparison will help you determine which stove best suits your needs and budget, whether you prioritize compact design, superior performance, or unbeatable affordability.From the sleek and integrated design of the Jetboil to the robust performance of the Highlander and the surprising capabilities of the budget champion, we've explored the strengths and weaknesses of each. This detailed review covers everything from boiling speed and build quality to features and overall user experience. Discover which stove came out on top in our rigorous testing, and find the perfect cooking companion for your next outdoor adventure, regardless of whether you're a seasoned camper or a budget-conscious beginner.
Pros And Cons
- Compact size
- Boils two cups of water
- Has a temperature indicator
- Stable when assembled
- Comes with a stand
- Handle design not preferred
- Relatively high price (around £80)
- Good quality
- Neoprene sheath
- Improved lid with rubber seal
- Better handle design than Jetboil
- Stable
- Comes with a multicam case
- Slightly more expensive than the 'wildcard' option
- Lowest price (under £20)
- Holds the most volume
- Can fit a larger gas bottle
- Good handles
- Fastest boiling time in the test
- Shakes a bit
- Doesn't come with a lighter
- Not as stable as the others
- Requires modification for optimal fit
Read more: 5 Ultralight Camping Cookware Sets for Backpacking
Jetboil Flash: Premium Performance
The Jetboil Flash is a premium camping stove, retailing around £80. Its compact design and integrated features make it a popular choice. The built-in temperature indicator is a useful addition, providing visual feedback during the boiling process. It's well-regarded for its build quality and ease of use.
Highlander Blade Fast Boil Mark 2: Budget-Friendly Contender
The Highlander Blade Fast Boil Mark 2 offers excellent value for money at around £40. While slightly larger than the Jetboil, it provides comparable performance. The improved lid with a rubber seal is a welcome upgrade. It boasts good stability and convenient handles making it user-friendly.
The Wild Card: Unbeatable Budget Option
The 'Wild Card' stove, purchased from eBay for under £20, surprised with its performance. While its build quality might not match the premium brands, it proves a surprisingly capable option. It features a larger cooking pot capacity and is compatible with larger gas canisters, making it very versatile. The slightly less sturdy construction is a trade-off for the extremely low price.
Boiling Time Comparison and Conclusion
A boiling test was conducted using the same amount of water and gas for each stove. The Wild Card emerged as the fastest boiler, followed by the Highlander, and finally, the Jetboil. While the Jetboil offers premium build quality and a convenient design, the Highlander and Wild Card provide excellent value and performance. The choice depends on your budget and priorities: the Jetboil for its premium features, the Highlander for balance between performance and price, and the Wild Card for those seeking the most budget-friendly option.
Each stove has its strengths. The Jetboil prioritizes compact design and ease of use with premium features like the integrated temperature gauge. The Highlander offers superior value for money with excellent build quality. The Wild Card is a champion of affordability with surprisingly good speed and larger cooking capacity.
