Comparison: Best Emergency Stove For Indoors (Updated | Oct 22nd)
When power outages or cold weather strike, having a reliable indoor emergency stove can ensure warmth and the ability to prepare meals safely. This guide compares top options, evaluating factors like fuel efficiency, portability, heat output, and safety features to help you choose a model suited to your needs. Whether you prioritize compact design, long burn times, or compatibility with multiple fuel sources, we provide balanced insights to make an informed decision. Focused on practicality and safety, this comparison aims to simplify your search for a dependable emergency cooking solution.
Editor’s Choice
Best for a specific purpose
-
Best for dual fuel versatility:
Gas One GS-3400P Propane or Butane Stove Dual Fuel Stove Portable Camping Stove – Patented – with Carrying Case Great for Emergency Preparedness Kit -
Best for budget pick:
Coghlan's Portable Folding Camp Stove – Compact -
Best for best indoor safety:
VESTA Self-Powered Camping Indoor/Outdoor Heater & Stove (Compact -
Best for high heat output:
Chef Master 15 -
Best for dual fuel safety:
Grill Boss Dual Fuel Portable Stove -
Best for ultra-portable stove:
Sterno Foldable Camp Stove – Portable Camping Stove for Outdoor Cooking -
Best for premium indoor burner:
Iwatani 35FW Single-Burner Butane Portable Cooktop Indoor & Outdoor Cooking Stove Medium -
Best for clean canned heat:
InstaFire 6-Hour Canned Heat (24 Cans) -
Best for eco wood burner:
Camping Stove -
Best for long burn kerosene:
11
Product Comparison: Best Emergency Stove For Indoors
Dual fuel versatility
Gas One GS-3400P Propane or Butane Stove Dual Fuel Stove Portable Camping Stove – Patented – with Carrying Case Great for Emergency Preparedness Kit
Gas One
- Duel Fuel – Compatible With Both Butane (Fuel Not Included) And Propane Fuel (Fuel Not Included), Operates On A Single Butane Cartridge 8 Oz Or A Propane Cylinder 16.4 Oz , Propane Converter Regulator Included
- Automatic Piezo Electric Ignition – Piezo-Electric Ignition That Eliminates The Use For Lighter/Matches In Order To Ignite Flame, No Need For Lighters Or Matches With This Stove
- Easy To Use – Our Gs-3400P Is Easy To Use With Adjustable Heat Dial And Automatic Piezo-Electric Ignition
- Safety Features – Built In Pressure Sensor Cartridge Ejection System And Gas Flow Cut Off Mechanism (Butane), Will Eject Cartridge When Irregular Pressure Is Detected
Budget pick
Coghlan's Portable Folding Camp Stove – Compact, Lightweight Steel Cooking Stove for Camping, Backpacking, Hiking, or Emergency Use – Uses Canned Heat or Fuel Tablets, Black
Coghlan's
- Compact and Lightweight Design: Folds flat for easy transport or storage; perfect for backpacking, camping, and any outdoor adventure where space is limited
- Versatile Fuel Options: Compatible with Coghlan's Camp Heat (sold separately), fuel cubes, solidified alcohol, and other condensed fuel sources for convenient campfire cooking
- Durable Coated Steel Construction: Made from sturdy, coated steel that withstands rugged use; built to provide a stable cooking platform in any environment
- Fits Small to Medium Cookware: With a 6.5 in. x 6.5 in. surface area, this stove accommodates small and medium pots or pans for boiling water, heating meals, and cooking essentials
- Ultralight for Travel: Weighs just 16 oz (1 lb), making it the perfect addition to any backpack or bug-out bag without adding bulk or extra weight
Best indoor safety
VESTA Self-Powered Camping Indoor/Outdoor Heater & Stove (Compact, Off-Grid, Emergency)
Insta-Fire
- TWO IN ONE: Get a space heater and stove all in one unit. Cook a meal, then warm up an area as much as 200 square feet in size.
- SAFE FOR INDOOR USE: No need to take it outside. Preserve your warmth by powering up the VESTA indoors, safely.
- NO POWER NEEDED: No plugs, no outlets, no electricity. All you need to run the VESTA is a couple of cans of canned heat. Use up to three cans at once for the highest heat.
- DISCREET FOR DISASTERS: The VESTA emits little to no smoke or fumes, making it easier than ever to cook and keep warm without disclosing your location.
- Fueled by Canned Heat (3 Included): Safe for Indoor Use. *Canned heat is chafing fuel—odorless, smokeless, nontoxic, and generally safe for indoor use. It is still HIGHLY recommended to provide adequate ventilation in any room where it is in use.
- LIGHT AS A FEATHER: At just under eight pounds, the VESTA can be carried from place to place with ease.
- Includes: 3 InstaFire 6-Hour Canned Heat
- Won't reveal your location!
High heat output
Chef Master 15,000 BTU Butane Portable Camp Stove | Double Wind-Guard Portable Stove Burner w/Piezo Click Ignition for Emergencies, Tailgating, Hiking, Backpacking & Camping Essentials – 90019
Chef Master
- POWERFUL PIEZO IGNITION SYSTEM – The Chef Master 15K BTU portable butane camp stove is designed for outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable, high-performance cooking solution. Featuring an advanced Piezo electric ignition system, this outdoor stove lights instantly with a simple turn of the knob – no matches or lighters required. This makes controlling the heat simple, as you always have the ability to adjust the flame and keep everything at the right temperature
- HIGH HEAT OUTPUT FOR POWERFUL COOKING – Our portable camping stove boasts an impressive 15,000 BTU output, delivering fast, efficient cooking, especially on dishes that require high heat. Having a 15K BTU output makes cooking with this butane burner stove more versatile and efficient, providing faster cooking times for quicker meal preparation while being suitable for a wider range of cooking methods, from boiling to searing
- EFFICIENT WIND PROTECTION – The Chef Master portable stove for camping offers two solutions for effective wind protection. The gas cooker features a built-in double wind guard around the burner head, allowing the flame to be unaffected by wind. The portable carry case can also be set up next to the camping stove to provide additional protection in higher winds
- ADVANCED SAFETY FEATURES FOR RELIABLE OUTDOOR COOKING – Engineered for safe and hassle-free cooking, this mini stove is equipped with an in-line regulator and pressure-sensing shut-off system that automatically stops gas flow if pressure rises too high, preventing dangerous flashbacks. Designed for stability and efficiency, the portable cooking stove also features a built-in wind guard to protect the flame from wind or indoor air circulation, and simple heat control to keep the temperature and flame under control
- LIGHTWEIGHT & PORTABLE FOR EASY OUTDOOR COOKING – Designed for ultimate convenience, this gas stove burner comes with a rugged hard-shell carrying case for effortless transport and storage, making it perfect for camping, hiking, backpacking, RV travel, and emergency preparedness. Compact and lightweight, it easily fits into any camping essentials kit, travel setup, or survival gear collection. Whether you're preparing meals on a solo trip or for a group, this camping gas stove ensures quick, efficient, and hassle-free indoor & outdoor cooking
Dual fuel safety
Grill Boss Dual Fuel Portable Stove, Dual Fuel Butane & Propane Stoves, 12K BTU Butane Camp Stove & Propane Portable Camping Stoves for Emergencies, Outdoor BBQ, Cooking, Hikings & Backpacking – 90057
Chef Master
- VERSATILE DUAL FUEL CAMP STOVE, BUTANE & PROPANE COMPATIBLE – Enjoy flexible outdoor cooking with this dual fuel camp stove, compatible with both 8 oz. butane and 16.4 oz. propane cylinders (fuel not included). Whether you're seeking lightweight portability or longer burn times, this stove has you covered. The included adapter makes switching between fuel types fast and easy—perfect for adapting to your cooking environment. Ideal for camping, hiking, tailgating, and emergency prep.
- BUILT-IN SAFETY FEATURES FOR CONFIDENT OUTDOOR COOKING – Cook with peace of mind using the Grill Boss Dual Fuel Camp Stove, engineered with enhanced safety in every detail. Featuring an automatic gas shutoff system that instantly activates in the event of irregular gas flow, this stove provides a secure, worry-free cooking experience. Whether you're camping, hiking, tailgating, or preparing for emergencies, it ensures reliable performance in any setting. For best results, always follow proper setup, fuel connection, and maintenance.
- SIMPLE IGNITION & SAFE, USER-FRIENDLY OPERATION – Light your camp stove with ease using the intuitive ignition system—just attach your fuel, turn the knob counterclockwise past the resistance point, and listen for the click to ignite. If needed, continue turning until the flame starts. Built for safe and straightforward use, this stove is ideal for outdoor cooking in campsites, hiking trails, tailgates, and emergency situations. Ensure proper ventilation, follow safety precautions, and keep flammable materials at a safe distance.
- INSTANT FLAME WITH AUTOMATIC PIEZO IGNITION – Skip the matches and get cooking fast with the built-in Automatic Piezo Ignition system. A simple click is all it takes to spark a reliable flame, making outdoor cooking quick and effortless. Compatible with both propane and butane stoves, this ignition system is ideal for camping, hiking, road trips, tailgating, and emergency use. Designed for convenience and reliability, it ensures fast starts and consistent performance—so you can spend less time setting up and more time enjoying your meals.
- COMPACT & TRAVEL-READY CAMP STOVE FOR EVERY ADVENTURE – Take outdoor cooking to the next level with the Grill Boss Butane Camp Stove, your reliable partner for camping, hiking, backpacking, tailgating, and emergency situations. Lightweight and compact, this stove stores neatly in a durable hard-shell carrying case for easy transport and protection. Whether you're setting up at a remote campsite or cooking on the move, this dual-fuel stove is built to deliver consistent, dependable heat.
Ultra-portable stove
Sterno Foldable Camp Stove – Portable Camping Stove for Outdoor Cooking, Easy-to-Assemble for Outdoor Picnics, Tailgating, & Emergencies – Pack of 1, Silver
Sterno
- Cook Delicious Meals Anywhere: Got plans to camp under the stars, enjoy a picnic in the park, or tailgate with friends? Our portable stove lets you cook hearty meals anywhere you are! Its corrosion-resistant frame is built to withstand elements.
- Easy to Assemble for Hassle-Free Cooking: Designed with convenience in mind, our small camping stove ensures quick setup, so you can focus on what matters most—enjoying your time outdoors! For best results, use with Sterno green canned heat.
- Made for Home & Commercial Use: Be it for serving meals at home or for your catering business, our catering supplies and equipment simplify food prep and meal presentation. Find what you need for the next event you're planning in our wide product selection.
- Experience a Heritage of Excellence: For over 100 years, Sterno embodies the timeless tradition of fine entertaining. From our iconic canned heat to cutting-edge flameless SpeedHeat, you can rely on Sterno to help turn every occasion into a success!
- Hassle-Free Hosting for Memorable Gatherings: Whether you're organizing a cookout or hosting a holiday party, our innovative foodservice products will change the way you serve food and entertain guests. With Sterno, every event will be unforgettable!
Premium indoor burner
Iwatani 35FW Single-Burner Butane Portable Cooktop Indoor & Outdoor Cooking Stove Medium
Iwatani
- BUTANE STOVE BURNER: Our Iwatani butane stove is the perfect portable cooktop with a super-high output of 15,000 BTU output and a durable brass burner
- EASY TO USE: Our portable stove top uses no locking levers – simply push the fuel can onto the magnet and it locks in safely, making it virtually impossible to load the fuel can incorrectly
- ULTRAEFFICIENT DESIGN: Equipped with an advanced heat panel, our portable burner utilizes the entire butane can by maintaining the maximum heat output and leaves behind no residual fuel
- BUILT-IN WINDBREAKER: Our portable butane stove with a double windbreaker protects the flame from wind and air conditioning, making it the perfect indoor and outdoor portable cooktop
- AUTOMATIC SAFETY STOP: Our portable gas stove automatically shuts off the flow of butane and extinguishes the flame if pressure in the fuel canister rises to unsafe levels
- Made in Japan
- Included components: Instruction Manual
Clean canned heat
InstaFire 6-Hour Canned Heat (24 Cans), Canned Heat for Cooking, Canned Heat for Food, Heat for Camping, Heat for Camp Stove, Indoor Heat, Nontoxic Heat, Emergency Heat, Heat for Emergency
Insta-Fire
- SAFE FOR INDOOR USE: This essential fuel burns clean without toxic chemicals or smoke. And in case it gets knocked over, the spill-safe glycol will not stay lit. This canned heat keeps you warm and safe!
- SIX-HOUR BURN TIME: Unlike other canned heat out there, ours keeps a consistent burn throughout the six-hour window. Have heat and light for a full six hours, and prepare several meals.
- RESEALABLE & RESUSABLE: Remaining fuel can be reused. Just use what you need, then screw the cap back on and save the rest for next time.
- THE PERFECT SIZE: At just 3.25" in circumference and 2.75" in height, each can fits conveniently into bug-out bags, drawers, glove boxes, and other tight spaces. The perfect size for camp stoves, too!
- PLENTY OF BACKUP: With eight packs of three cans, you’ll get ample light and heat for long-term emergencies, camping trips, and more.
Eco wood burner
Camping Stove, Ohuhu Camp Stove Wood Burning Stove Stainless Steel Stoves Mini Portable Stove for Camping Picnic BBQ Backpacking Hiking Survival Emergency Cooking Outdoor with Grill Grid Carry Bag
Ohuhu
- Compact, Lightweight & Portable: It can be a pain lugging around one of those heavy gas stoves, but Ohuhu camping stove is super portable and weighs just 0.98lbs! Assembles in seconds, no tools required. This portable stove for camping can fit into your gear bag, the back of your car, or many other places! It’s the perfect way to enjoy the outdoors when you’re camping, backpacking, hiking survival, fishing or in emergency!
- Stable & Durable: Like any high quality gear, Ohuhu backpacking wood burning stove is made to last through all sorts of adventures thanks to the stainless steel. In the meanwhile, the mini camp stoves, built with top-notch stainless steel, can support pots and pans, hot temperatures of the fire, and the journey there and back without an issue. The camping stove also comes with a detachable stainless steel plate.
- Mutilple Use: What’s great about this camping stove is its wide compatibility with all sorts of fuel types. Not only can you use a traditional gas tank or solid fuel tablets, but you can also use any type you might bring or find along the way. Ohuhu wood burning stove is a cost-effective and eco-friendly way for cooking, boiling, and enjoying nature.
- Wide Compatibility: You can fit just about any pot or pan on this camp stove thanks to the sizeable cooking surface. Whatever the situation calls for, boiling water and coffee, cooking food, or just making a nice campfire for heat and enjoyment. Ohuhu wood burning stove can do it all!
- Adjustable Ash Catcher: Get exactly the heat levels you need thanks to the 2 adjustable heights (2.8”/3.8”) of the portable stoves. Use intense heat for grilling or lighter heat for warming up previously cooked food or boiled coffee. This user-friendly design makes the camping wood stove efficient and easy to use!
Long burn kerosene
11,500 BTU Kerosene Heaters for Indoor Use, Non Electric Portable Kerosene Stove & Heater for Camping, Garage, Home, and Emergency Use
AHUAWA
- Kerosene Heater Indoor: Portable 11,500 BTU kerosene heater with 3000W output, providing instant heat to efficiently warm spaces up to 200-500 square feet. perfect for garage, living room, bedroom, apartment, and RV.
- No Electricity Needed: This kerosene heaters with a 1.4 gallon tank that provides up to 20 hours of heat. Includes a complete accessory set with funnel, siphon pump, gloves, and extra wicks.
- Reliable Emergency Heater: Stay warm during power outages, snow storms, or winter emergencies with this small kerosene heater. providing instant, electricity-free warmth, it ensures you remain comfortable and prepared for unexpected weather conditions.
- Safe & Energy-Saving: Save on utility bills with this kerosene heater. Designed with adjustable height design allows you to control heat output more effectively, protective safety net and a sturdy anti-tip base for added safety, ensuring reliable warmth in any situation.
- Versatile Use: Perfect for indoor and outdoor spaces, this compact kerosene heater is ideal for camping, tent, porch, greenhouse, and patio. It doubles as a reliable backup heat source, with a flat top that allows you to boil water or cook food while keeping warm.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
Which indoor emergency stove is fuel-efficient?
The VESTA Self-Powered Stove (B0BQDW6628) uses minimal fuel for extended use.
What stove is safest for indoor use?
The Iwatani Butane Cooktop (B00522F2R2) is designed for indoor/outdoor safety with stable flames.
Which stove requires no open flames?
InstaFire Canned Heat (B0CJMXJWGM) provides heat without flames for safer indoor cooking.
What compact stove fits small spaces?
The Coghlan's Folding Camp Stove (B0007L8108) folds to a lightweight, portable size.
Which stove offers dual fuel options?
Grill Boss Dual Fuel Stove (B09QXSZLD1) works with both butane and propane.
What stove is best for long indoor emergencies?
Sterno Foldable Stove (B07J1LH4L5) uses canned heat for up to 8 hours per can.
Which stove is ideal for indoor heating and cooking?
VESTA Self-Powered Heater & Stove (B0BQDW6628) combines heating and cooking functions.