MSR Windburner vs Jetboil TrailCook 2.0

The MSR Windburner is the better solo stove: its regulated radiant burner holds up in wind and cold, and the 1 L pot with a 0.5 L bowl nests into one compact package. The Jetboil TrailCook 2.0 is the better group stove: a 2 L ceramic-coated pot with a self-centering support that takes third-party cookware up to 9 inches, so you can actually simmer and sauté for two to four people. The Windburner is lighter and faster to a liter of water; the TrailCook is heavier but far more versatile at the camp kitchen. Owners of both praise the regulated, consistent heat; the common complaint about the Windburner is its narrow solo-only capacity, and about the TrailCook its weight and slower per-liter boil.

• Choose the MSR Windburner if you hike or climb solo, want one compact windproof system, and mostly boil water for dehydrated meals.
• Choose the Jetboil TrailCook 2.0 if you cook for two to four people and want a real pot for simmering, sautéing and third-party cookware.