I’ve been itching to review the Optimus Crux Stove for quite some time now. I’ve actually owned it and had it in testing for 1 solid year now. I have used this stove in highs and lows (speaking in terms of elevation), as well as in 100° temperatures and 0° temperatures. So given the varied amount of testing I’ve put it through, I feel like it’s time to share my thoughts.
I’ll keep this one short – Because this is a product that either works or it doesn’t. There’s not a lot of in between for me. So without further ado, let’s jump in!
Optimus Crux Review
The Optimus Crux stove is my go-to cooking and boiling system when I want to go ultralight in the woods. The stove itself weighs a measly 83 grams (2.9 ounces). It does come with a stuff sack as well, which may add an ounce or so – But who’s counting.
What I love the most about the Optimus Crux (secondary to its weight) is how compact this system is. The stove (with supplied stuff sack) nests perfectly under the bottom of a 220 Gram canister of fuel. And with some smart shopping around, you can find aluminum, titanium or stainless steel pots that will hold the fuel canister + stove perfectly. This makes for a nice all-inclusive package when you’re trying to keep your backpack organized.
I personally pair my Optimus Crux stove with the Esbit Aluminum Pots found in this kit (because I already owned them). However, if you’re just starting out, Optimus sells their own stove kit with aluminum pots which can be found here. Everything nests perfectly together in these types of aluminum pots. And they add very little weight to your load out.
Optimus Crux Performance
I know a lot of people get hung up on boil times and how well these little canister stoves perform. And I’ll be honest – I remember getting the stopwatch out a few years ago myself. But if I’m honest, I just don’t pay attention to that stuff anymore. I bring these little stoves along when I am wanting to make something while I’m outdoors, and I’ve typically got other things to keep my busy while I’m waiting on my food or drink. So I’m never in a rush.
But, with that said – I can tell you this stove is a quick one. It brings water to a boil in the blink of an eye. And it cooks just as fast. In fact, the steak you’re seeing above was 1/4th of a pound or so and it cooked in 5-10 minutes. I literally didn’t have much time to look away before the stove finished.
This stove has performed phenomenally in 0° temperatures, all the way up to 100°. Rain or shine. Windy or calm. What more can you ask for?
Optimus Crux Stove Review (10 out of a 10):
I have been a huge fan of this stove since trip #1 with it. It performs flawlessly, is very well made, ultra light and has never let me down. I would recommend this stove without hesitation.
If you have any questions or need some guidance on this product, drop me a comment below! I love talking about these types of products and would be happy to help in any way I can.
Get social with me:
Buy the Optimus Crux Stove:
Please consider purchasing the Optimus Crux Stove through my Amazon Links. Your support in purchasing through these links help to support future gear purchases and adventures to test the gear.
