Solo Stove Lite
Specifications
| Weight | Boil Time | Packed Size | Ignition | Simmer Control | Material | Efficiency | MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9.0 oz | Varies (wood-fueled) | 5.7 x 4.25 in | Manual (wood ignition) | n/a (wood control) | 304 Stainless Steel | n/a | $69.99 |
Boiling Time & Control
The Lite is an ingeniously simple, wood-burning stove designed for lightweight, on-the-go cooking. It features a double-wall stainless-steel design with exceptional airflow that lets even novices boil water in under 10 minutes using nothing but twigs and kindling. The Lite isn’t about quick boiling, it more about the process - think primal and less transactional. Flame control is less about precision dials and more about hands-on management: by feeding twigs through strategically placed openings, you retain full control over heat output and can sustain or dampen the burn as needed. While the concept is simple, the Solo Stove design is sophisticated.
Performance in the Elements
The stove’s performance in the elements largely depends on the availability of dry fuel and protection from wind. In calm conditions, it burns hot and efficiently thanks to its signature double-wall gasification design. However, wind and rain will hamper performance quickly. Wet fuel requires time and skill to ignite, and gusty wind can make the flame difficult to control. That said, when used in sheltered locations or fair weather, the Solo Stove Lite delivers a remarkably clean and consistent burn compared to more basic twig stoves.
Weight & Packability
At 9 ounces (255 grams), the Solo Stove Lite is not ultralight by today’s standards, especially when compared to titanium or canister-based setups. However, it doesn’t require any fuel canisters or accessories, which saves overall weight on multi-day trips. It packs neatly inside Solo’s Pot 900 or similar-sized cook kits, and includes a small nylon carry sack. While it’s a bit bulkier than minimalist stoves, the convenience of not packing fuel offsets the weight for some users—particularly on longer trips or in areas where resupply is difficult.
Price
Retailing around $70, the Solo Stove Lite sits at the higher end of wood-burning stove pricing. But you’re paying for quality engineering and a proven design. It may not be the most budget-friendly stove out there, but it provides excellent long-term value if you prefer a stove that uses natural fuel and requires minimal maintenance over time.
Quality & Materials
Built from durable 304 stainless steel, the stove is solidly constructed and built to last. It can withstand years of use without warping or rusting when properly cared for. The airflow system is intelligently designed to maximize combustion efficiency, and the pot stand is sturdy enough to handle medium-sized cookware. Although some users might prefer titanium for weight savings, the tradeoff in durability and stability is often worth it.
Consumer Sentiment: Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Cooking with natural fuel
- Fuel efficiency
- Ability to avoid carrying canisters
- Enjoyable “mini campfire” experience it provides
- Clean burn that leaves little ash or soot behind when fueled correctly.
Cons:
- Longer boil times
- Lack of flame control
- Limited use in wet or windy environments
- Inconvenience of collecting and preparing fuel at camp, which may not appeal to all
How It Compares to Comparable Items
Compared to canister stoves like the MSR PocketRocket 2 or the integrated Jetboil MiniMo, the Solo Stove Lite is slower and more weather-sensitive, but it eliminates the need for fuel canisters entirely. When stacked against other wood stoves, it holds its own with better airflow efficiency and easier ignition, though it is a bit heavier. If you value simplicity and don’t mind trading a few minutes of convenience for the charm and resourcefulness of a fire, the Lite stands out in its category.
Who Is This Intended For
This stove is best for hikers and campers who enjoy the process of cooking with fire and want to cut down on fuel dependency. It’s particularly well-suited for solo adventurers, minimalist backpackers, and bushcrafters who frequent dry, wooded environments. It’s not ideal for alpine expeditions, high wind areas, or trips where fuel collection is limited, but for those who embrace slower-paced, low-impact travel, the Solo Stove Lite is a reliable and enjoyable companion.
