How Does a Rocket Stove Compare to a Gas Stove?
Imagine you’re deep in the woods, the birds are chirping, the sky is blue, and your stomach is growling like a bear. You pull out your gas stove... but wait, you forgot the fuel canister! Uh-oh. Now imagine you had a rocket stove instead, one that runs on twigs and leaves.
Boom! Problem solved.
So, how do these two stoves really compare? Let’s find out.
What is a Rocket Stove?
No, it doesn't blast off into space. A rocket stove is a super clever kind of wood-burning stove. It has a tall, insulated chimney and a fire chamber shaped like an “L” or “K”. You feed in small sticks, and because of how it’s built, it burns really hot and clean. It gets its name because the fire whooshes up like a rocket engine.
Rocket stoves are loved by campers, survivalists, and folks in off-grid homes. Why? Because they burn wood, and can even use stuff that’s just lying around: twigs, pinecones, bark. No propane tanks or fancy fuel.
What is a Gas Stove?
You probably have one in your kitchen. A gas stove uses natural gas or propane to make flames for cooking. You turn a knob, hear a click-click-click, and whoosh! Fire. Super easy, super fast.
Gas stoves are super common in homes and also show up in camping gear. They cook evenly and cleanly, and you can control the heat with a twist of a knob.
Fuel: Twigs vs. Tanks
Rocket stoves are like little dragons that snack on sticks. They use natural materials like dry twigs, leaves, and small branches. That means you don’t need to carry fuel, which is great when you’re hiking or living off-grid.
Gas stoves, on the other hand, need fuel canisters. These are filled with propane or butane. They’re clean and easy to use, but when they’re empty, you’re out of luck unless you brought extras.
See also: Can a Rocket Stove Burn Charcoal?
Who Wins?
Both have their pros and cons. Rocket stove wins on fuel availability, especially in the wild. But gas stoves win for convenience in places where you can carry or store fuel.
Starting the Fire
Rocket stoves need some fire-starting skills. You’ve got to gather dry sticks, light them just right, and keep feeding the fire. It’s a little like being a fire wizard.
Gas stoves are push-button easy. One click and you’re cooking. No need to hunt for sticks or blow on embers.
Who Wins?
Gas stove takes this one. It’s just easier, especially if you’re in a hurry or it’s raining.
Cooking Power
Rocket stoves get really hot. That tall chimney helps suck air through the fire, which makes it burn hotter and faster. You can boil water in minutes. The downside? You can’t always control the heat easily.
Gas stoves give you total control. Want to simmer soup? No problem. Need a full blast for frying? Just turn the knob.
(Psst– while we’re on topic, take a look at our writeup on the perfect meals to cook on a rocket stove!)
Who Wins?
Gas stove wins for control. Rocket stove wins for sheer heat using nothing but twigs.
Portability
Rocket stoves come in all sizes. Some are tiny and made for backpacking. Others are big and bulky for home use. They’re usually made of metal, bricks, or even tin cans.
Gas stoves are made to be portable. Camping models are small and foldable. They’re light and easy to pack.
Who Wins?
Gas stoves are lighter and easier to carry overall, but there are flat pack rocket stoves that are collapsible, and absolutely can’t be beat when it comes to portability. Small, non-collapsible rocket stoves can be very portable too.
Environment and Safety
Rocket stoves are awesome for the environment. They burn wood so efficiently that there’s very little smoke. They also use less wood than a regular campfire.
Gas stoves don’t make smoke, but their fuel comes from fossil fuels. Plus, empty canisters are trash that’s hard to recycle.
When it comes to safety, gas stoves are safe if used right, but they can explode if there's a leak. Rocket stoves have open flames and can tip over, so you have to be careful too.
Who Wins?
Rocket stoves are more eco-friendly. Safety is a tie, depending on how careful you are.
Cost
Rocket stoves can be free if you build your own. People have made them from bricks, cans, even old coffee pots. High quality pre-assembled models (like the ones we have here at Chiasson Smoke) can be as low as $170.
Gas stoves vary too. A simple camping stove might cost $20, but you’ll also need to buy fuel over and over (and a new stove over and over too, if you buy one that’s a little too cheap!)
Who Wins?
Rocket stoves win for long-term savings and DIY fun.
When to Use Each One
Rocket stoves shine in the wilderness. You don’t need to carry fuel. They’re perfect for emergencies, survival kits, or off-grid living. If you're okay with a little fire-starting challenge, they’re amazing.
Gas stoves are best for when you want fast, easy cooking. They're ideal for road trips, picnics, or quick camping meals. They also work well indoors with proper ventilation.
Fun Factor
Let’s be honest. Cooking with a rocket stove feels like a mini adventure. You gather wood, build a fire, and watch it roar. It’s like being a chef and a scout all at once.
Gas stoves are boring in comparison. Turn the knob, cook, done. No magic. Just meals.
Who Wins?
We might be a little biased, but to us, there only possible winner here is rocket stoves, both for the thrill and the skills.
Final Thoughts
So, which stove is better? That depends on what you need. Want easy, fast, and clean? Go gas. Want cheap, off-grid, and fun? Go rocket.
The rocket stove is like your wild, bearded uncle who lives in the forest and knows how to make a fire with just a rock and a stare. The gas stove is like your neat aunt who always has snacks and a lighter in her purse.
They’re both awesome. They both cook your food. And if you’re lucky, maybe you’ll get to use both on your next adventure.
