SOTO Amicus
Specifications
| Weight | Boil Time | Packed Size | Ignition | Simmer Control | Material | Efficiency | MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.6 oz | ~ 2.5 mins per 0.5 L | 1.7 x 1.6 x 3.0 | Manual (Piezo optional) | Yes | Not provided | 1.5 hours with 250 g canister | $44.95 |
Boiling Time & Control
the Amicus as a reliable, budget-friendly stove that offers fast boil times and excellent flame control. Its recessed concave burner improves wind resistance, boiling 2 cups of water in under 3 minutes and maintaining a steady flame even in breezy conditions (though not to the extend of the SOTO WindMaster). With smooth simmer control and 10,200 BTUs of output, the Amicus balances efficiency, performance, and packability for everyday backpackers.
Performance in the Elements
Amicus backpacking stove is built to perform reliably in real-world conditions, especially wind and cold. Its concave, recessed burner head protects the flame from wind, allowing it to maintain steady heat and boil water efficiently even when conditions are less than ideal. While it doesn’t have the pressure regulator found in the SOTO WindMaster, the Amicus still performs well in moderate cold and breezy environments, offering stable flame output and dependable cooking without the need for a windscreen.
Weight & Packability
At just 2.6 oz, the Amicus is ultra-compact—smaller than most screw-top stoves—and folds flat. It fits neatly into cookpot kits alongside fuel canister and lighter. It also includes a small stuff sack, though some ultralighters skip it to save space .
Price
With an MSRP of around $45, it’s a budget-friendly entry into high-quality, regulated stoves—about the cost of low-end models but with significantly better build and control.
Quality & Materials
Constructed with precision brass valve, stainless burner, and titanium pot supports, the Amicus is built to last. Pot supports are more stable than standard “Y” arms, thanks to four wide-folding prongs—ideal for wider pots or shaky hands.
Consumer Sentiment: Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Ultralight and collapsible build
- Quick boil times and excellent fuel economy
- Regulated simmer/boil capability
- Durable materials and stable pot support
- Excellent value for regulated stove performance
Cons:
- Not fully windproof—needs some wind protection under harsher conditions
- Limited simmer power—not ideal for heavy cooking if needed
Comparison to Competitors
MSR PocketRocket 2: Similar weight and price, but Amicus is favored with regulation, simmer and wind resistance thanks to better burner design.
Soto WindMaster: Slightly lighter and cheaper; WindMaster adds even better wind and simmer performance—but Amicus is a strong compromise.
MSR PocketRocket Deluxe: Deluxe has pressure regulation, but weighs more and is pricier. Amicus offers similar build and control at lower weight and cost.
Who This Is For
The SOTO Amicus is perfect for backpackers who want a light, reliable, and controllable stove with great value. Ideal for three-season use, ultralight thru-hikes, and casual camping—especially for those who value flame control and better performance in wind.
If you frequently cook in alpine or high-wind environments, consider the WindMaster or another integrated system. For most hikers, the Amicus hits a remarkable balance.
