The MSR WhisperLite has been considered by many as the best backpacking stove on the market for over 25 years. MSR now offers the WhisperLite in 3 Models: the base white gas model, the International, and the Universal.
Pros
Cons
Pros
Cons
Pros
Cons
The International and the Universal are essentially the same stove. The only difference between these two is that the WhisperLite Universal has a changeable adapter that allows it to connect to isobutane/propane fuel canisters.
While MSR claims the WhisperLite Universal adapter is easy to interchange, I found it difficult to do in freezing conditions. In addition, carrying around extra bits a pieces for a secondary adapter would not be my first choice. But that’s just me and my simple is better and weight-conscious ways; I can see the appeal of having this adapter.
The base WhisperLite model has a slightly different design as it uses stainless steel rods for the base and surface. The International and Universal use a stamped stainless steel design that creates several benefits. These benefits include shaving 0.3 ounces, folding flatter for packing, creating a more stable base, and placing teeth on the top surface for added grip.
Going basic is not always a worse choice though. Because the base model is designed to use white gas, and only white gas, it achieves the highest fuel efficiency. That being said, the stamped stainless steel and added flexibility of the WhisperLite International model is what won me over.
White gas stoves are the better choice for winter camping as it is combustible at much lower temperatures. Isobutane will not burn below 11 degrees Fahrenheit (-11C) as this is its vaporizing point. In addition, isobutane/propane mix canisters will have burning consistency issues in extreme cold as a result of the higher vaporizing point of the isobutane compared to the propane.
Unlike isobutane that requires an acceptable ambient temperature, white gas stoves rely on a much more manual process. The process consists of pressurizing the canister, priming the stove, and then finally turning on the gas for use. It can be a bit tedious at times, but I would rather know my stove will burn than worry about the ambient temperature when it comes time to cook food or boil water.
Durable
The MSR WhisperLite design has stood the test of time. For 25 years it has been a favorite for backpackers everywhere. I’ve personally had mine for 7 years and it still works like new!
Compact and Lightweight
With the total packed weight of 15 ounces, you won’t even notice you’re carrying a stove on your back. Furthermore, the way it folds flat to store away allows it to fit nicely in most pots.
Reliable
Probably the most important aspect to note. As a heat source can be like a life source in the backcountry, you want to make sure your stove is reliable. It follows that you would want a stove that will ignite every time under any condition. The MSR WhisperLite is the most reliable stove you could purchase.
I’ve been so impressed by the WhisperLite stoves that it is hard to find anything to complain about. As noted above, it can be a bit tricky to switch between the adapters on the WhisperLite Universal, but the fact that it even has this functionality is really amazing.
The fuel pump is extremely well built and easy to maintain. However, the fuel filter is exposed when not in use and can easily be damaged or clogged. It’s a good idea to hold the fuel pump in a ziplock bag to separate it from the stove and keep the filter from getting dirty. If you do damage your fuel pump in any way, MSR also sells a variety of service kits for repair and maintenance.
There is good reason for the WhisperLite’s reputation as the best white gas stove around. It is highly durable, compact, lightweight, and most importantly – reliable! The white gas design is the best in class and is compatible with any of the three sized fuel bottles (11oz, 20oz, and 30oz) offered by MSR.
If you are going to be camping in extreme cold conditions, do not make excuses for anything less than the best. Your heat source is a life source in the backcountry. You can get your MSR WhisperLite right here: