The MSR Windburner is a great stove that has served us well over the years. From cozy cabin nights to chilly evenings tent camping in the mountains, the WindBurner is at the top of our packing list! We have had a fantastic experience with the product and would highly recommend it to family and friends.
(Note: This stove was first released under the name the MSR Windboiler, but was later renamed to the MSR Windburner. We purchased our stove prior to the name change.)
First Impression
The MSR WindBurner is an amazing stove for boiling water and cooking over a skillet. Holding up to 1L of water, it boils quickly and efficiently.
The accessories easily tuck inside, making it packable for trips to the beach, backpacking or through hiking, and morning cups of coffee at the cabin.
The WindBurner is ideal for making coffee, tea, cider, ramen, oatmeal, and dehydrated meals. We most commonly use ours for boiling water, although it is equally capable of cooking meals with an attachable skillet.
A recent update has added a nonstick coating, eliminating previous problems with food burning and sticking to the skillet. Our older model doesn’t have this coating, hence why we typically cook with our MSR Whisperlite International (ideal when cooking for 2-3+ people) and MSR PocketRocket 2 (fantastic for 1-2 people).
Keep an eye out for future posts comparing camp stoves!
Attachments & Accessories
Coffee Press Kit
- $19.95-$24.95 depending on size
- Great option for brewing coffee on the trail
- Packable, lightweight
- In recent years we have opted for the Ultralight Java Drip from GSI (pictured below)
- Personally, we feel the GSI Java Drip is quicker to clean up and filters coffee grounds more effectively
WindBurner Ceramic Skillet
- $69.95
- Note: this is not the MSR Quick Skillet (which is not intended for use with the WindBurner)
- The MSR Ceramic Skillet is only able to be used with MSR Windburner, Duo Stove, and Group Stove Systems
- MSR has updated their skillet to include a non-stick coating
- Packable, lightweight; handle folds into the skillet for easy transport
- From our experience, this stove creates an intense hot spot in the center of the skillet – we are hopeful that the new nonstick coating will improve consistent heating
- We own the original version (prior to the recent update, adding a nonstick coating) and are looking forward to updating soon!
Pros
- Ease of use
- All in one package
- Long lasting stove
- Great performance in windy conditions
- Reliable in all four seasons
- Space saving system which all parts and a 4oz. canister can fit within the pot
Cons
- No Piezo ignitor build-in (You will need to light it with a match or lighter, unlike the JetBoil.)
- Reliant upon isobutane/propane fuel canisters
- As mentioned above, it is not a true “standalone” stove that serves all purposes.
- Slightly more expensive than some of its competitors
Relevant Technical Specs:
| Intended Use: | Backpacking & Car Camping |
| Season: | 4 Seasons |
| Weight: | 1 lb |
| Boil Time: | 4.5 minutes |
| Volume: | 1.0 liters |
| Fuel Type: | Isobutane-propane Canisters |
| Dimensions: | 7.1 x 4.2 x 4.2 inches |
What are other similar stoves to the MSR Windburner?
The main competitor for the MSR Windburner is the JetBoil Flash, along with a variety of others. We have found JetBoil’s stove to be incredibly comparable to our own, and would also recommend it to friends and family. Below are links to three similar options, currently available on the market:
Our Final Verdict
Key Takeaways
Overall this has been in our gear arsenal for many years, we had purchased it back when it first came out and have not needed to replace the stove. For boiling water, it is a true powerhouse, but in most situations, you will need to pair it with another stove for a full cooking set. We have had a great experience using the WindBurner stove system, and it will remain a staple in our gear set up for years to come.
Please note that all links listed above are for informational purposes only; any future affiliate links will be specifically disclosed.