6 Best Wood Burning Stoves in 2025
As the days grow shorter and a chill creeps into the air, the thought of gathering around a crackling fire becomes increasingly alluring. But with so many wood burning stove options available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re seeking a rustic charm for your cabin, a modern marvel for your contemporary home, or a high-efficiency heater for your energy-conscious lifestyle, there’s a perfect wood burning stove out there waiting to warm your heart (and home). To help you navigate the vast landscape of wood stoves, we’ve gathered our top 6 picks, each boasting unique features and benefits. Get ready to cozy up with the warmth of these exceptional stoves.
6. Guide Gear Outdoor Wood Burning Stove, Portable
The Guide Gear Outdoor Wood Burning Stove is marketed as a versatile companion for your outdoor adventures, promising warmth, cooking capabilities, and portability for camping, hiking, fishing, and backpacking. While the idea is appealing, my experience with this stove revealed some limitations that might make you reconsider its suitability for your needs.
On the plus side, the stove is compact and lightweight, making it relatively easy to pack. The chimney pipe extends, allowing for adequate ventilation and smoke dispersal. It does a decent job of heating a small space and can even be used to boil water for cooking. The simple design is straightforward to assemble and operate, even for novice campers. However, the cooking grate is quite small, limiting the amount of food you can prepare at once.
Performance-wise, the stove struggles to maintain consistent heat, especially in windy conditions. The thin metal construction feels flimsy, and I noticed some warping after a few uses. While it’s advertised as portable, the added weight of the chimney pipe and fuel wood can become cumbersome on longer hikes.
Ultimately, the Guide Gear Outdoor Wood Burning Stove offers a budget-friendly option for those seeking basic warmth and a small cooking surface. However, its limitations in terms of heat output, durability, and cooking capacity might make it unsuitable for serious campers or those expecting a reliable, high-performance stove. If you’re looking for a more robust and versatile option, you might want to consider investing in a higher-quality model.
5. Camp Chef Alpine Wood-Burning Stove
The Camp Chef Alpine Heavy Duty Cylinder System is marketed as a convenient and versatile wood-burning stove system ideal for wall tent camping. While it boasts several appealing features, there are a few considerations before you pack it into your camping gear.
Setting up the Alpine system is fairly straightforward thanks to its five-piece nesting pipe and removable legs. The internal log grate and spark arrestor offer practical safety features. I appreciated the inclusion of accessory shelves, providing extra space for pots, pans, or even a camp coffee maker. The roomy cooktop is definitely a plus for larger groups or those planning on cooking elaborate meals. However, the damper control can be a bit finicky, sometimes requiring multiple adjustments to achieve the desired heat level.
Transporting the Alpine system is relatively easy due to its modular design. The legs detach for compact storage, and the components nest neatly together. Be aware, though, that this system is still quite heavy, especially when fully assembled. You’ll definitely need a sturdy backpack or cart to maneuver it through the woods.
While the Alpine system shines in its versatility, catering to both cooking and heating needs, its performance can be a mixed bag. Controlling the heat output can be a challenge, and the stove tends to produce more smoke than I’d like, especially when getting started. This means you’ll need to be mindful of ventilation and potential smoke drift towards your tent. For the price point, I expected a bit more efficiency and refined heat control. Overall, the Camp Chef Alpine Heavy Duty Cylinder System offers a solid foundation for a wood-burning stove setup, but it’s not without its shortcomings. Careful consideration of its weight, potential for smoke, and heat control quirks is essential before making a purchase.
4. Ashely Hearth AW3200E-P Pedestal Wood Stove
The Ashely Hearth AW3200E-P is a powerful wood burning stove capable of heating a surprisingly large area. With a 152,000 BTU output, it promises to keep spaces up to 3,200 square feet cozy and warm. I put this claim to the test in my own 2,000 square foot home, and while it certainly kept the main living area toasty, it didn’t quite manage to reach the furthest corners of the house on its own. This might be due to the heat distribution, which relies on the included blower.
The blower, while powerful (100 CFM), can be a bit noisy, especially on higher settings. It’s definitely effective at pushing heat around the room, but it’s not something I’d leave on constantly for a quiet evening. The stove itself is well-constructed with heavy gauge steel and a firebrick lining, promising durability and efficiency. I was impressed with the large firebox – it easily accommodated logs up to 22 inches long, and the 30 lb capacity meant I could load it up for a long burn.
The brushed nickel door handle and pedestal base give the stove a sleek, modern look that complements my decor. However, the pedestal design does take up more floor space than a traditional wood stove. This might be a consideration for smaller homes or rooms with limited space.
Overall, the Ashely Hearth AW3200E-P is a capable wood burning stove that delivers on its heating promise. While the blower can be noisy and the pedestal base takes up space, the stove’s construction quality, large firebox, and attractive design make it a worthwhile choice for those looking to add warmth and ambiance to their homes.
3. Ashley Hearth AW2020-P Pedestal Wood Stove
The Ashley Hearth AW2020-P 2,000 Sq. Ft. Pedestal Wood Burning Stove is a solid contender for those seeking a stylish and efficient heating solution for their homes. With its impressive 89,000 BTUs, this stove boasts the capability to heat up to 2,000 square feet, making it suitable for larger rooms or open floor plans. Its firebrick lining contributes to both longevity and combustion efficiency, ensuring a hot and clean burn. I found the large ash pan with its brushed nickel handle particularly convenient, simplifying the cleanup process after a cozy evening by the fire.
One of the standout features of the AW2020-P is its ability to accommodate logs up to 21 inches in length. This allows for greater flexibility in choosing fuel and potentially longer burn times. The brushed nickel spring door handle and pedestal base add an elegant touch, complementing a range of interior styles. However, it’s worth noting that this aesthetic comes at a price, as the AW2020-P falls on the higher end of the spectrum compared to other wood stoves with similar BTU outputs.
While the stove performs well in terms of heating capacity and aesthetics, there are a few drawbacks to consider. Firstly, a blower is not included, which is a common feature in many modern wood stoves. While Ashley does offer a separate blower model (CB36), this adds to the overall cost. Secondly, the weight of this stove can be a challenge for some users during installation. Its pedestal design, while stylish, might also make it less stable than other models with a wider base.
Overall, the Ashley Hearth AW2020-P delivers on its promise of powerful heating and a refined look. However, potential buyers should carefully weigh the cost, the need for a separate blower, and the installation challenges before making a decision.
2. Ashley AW1120E-P EPA Certified
The Ashley Hearth AW1120E-P Pedestal Wood Burning Stove is a stunning addition to any living space, combining classic elegance with exceptional heat output. As someone who has personally used this stove, I can attest to its impressive performance and user-friendly design.
This stove boasts a powerful 68,000 BTU output, capable of effectively heating up to 1,200 square feet. The firebrick lining ensures optimal combustion efficiency, maximizing heat generation while minimizing fuel consumption. The large ash pan with its convenient brushed nickel handle makes cleanup a breeze, a detail that I particularly appreciate. The stove’s ability to accept logs up to 18 inches long provides ample fuel capacity for extended warmth.
What truly sets this stove apart is its striking aesthetic. The brushed nickel spring door handle and pedestal base add a touch of sophistication and complement a variety of interior styles. While the included features are already impressive, I did find that a separate blower (models CB36 or B36, sold separately) would enhance the stove’s overall performance and heat distribution.
Overall, the Ashley Hearth AW1120E-P Pedestal Wood Burning Stove offers an exceptional blend of performance, style, and convenience. Its EPA certification guarantees environmentally responsible heating, making it a guilt-free choice for eco-conscious homeowners. For its impressive heating capacity, user-friendly design, and elegant appearance, this stove represents outstanding value for the price.
1. US Stove Company Cast Iron Wood Stove, Cool Touch
The US Stove Company Cast Iron Wood Stove is a beast of a heater, delivering serious warmth to any space. This stove boasts an impressive 54,000 BTUs of heat output, easily warming up to 900 square feet. I’ve used it in my cabin during some seriously frigid nights, and let me tell you, it kept everything toasty warm. The large firebox can accommodate logs up to 19 inches long, meaning fewer trips outside to replenish the fuel.
One of the things I really appreciate about this stove is the safety handle. It’s a two-piece design that stays surprisingly cool to the touch, even when the fire is roaring. This is a huge plus for peace of mind, especially when you have kids or pets around. The cast iron construction is another standout feature. It’s built to last and adds a classic, rustic charm to any room. This stove is a real statement piece.
At 33 inches long, 18.5 inches wide, and 23 inches high, it’s a substantial unit. It does weigh in at around 130 pounds, so you’ll definitely need a sturdy base and some help with moving it. However, its size is part of what makes it so effective at generating heat.
Overall, the US Stove Company Cast Iron Wood Stove delivers exceptional performance and safety. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to add a touch of warmth and style to their home. While the weight might be a consideration for some, the sheer power and longevity of this stove make it a top choice for anyone serious about staying cozy during the colder months.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size wood burning stove do I need?
The size of wood burning stove you need depends on the size of the space you want to heat. A good rule of thumb is to choose a stove with a heat output (measured in BTUs) that is 10-15% higher than the square footage of the room you want to heat. For example, a 1,000 square foot room would need a stove with a heat output of 1,100-1,500 BTUs. Be sure to consider factors like insulation, ceiling height, and the number of windows and doors in the room.
What are the different types of wood burning stoves?
There are several types of wood burning stoves available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
- Traditional wood stoves: These stoves are often freestanding and have a simple design. They are generally more affordable than other types of stoves, but they can be less efficient and produce more smoke.
- EPA-certified stoves: These stoves meet strict emissions standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency. They are more expensive than traditional stoves, but they are also more efficient and environmentally friendly.
- Pellet stoves: These stoves burn compressed wood pellets instead of logs. They are very efficient and can be programmed to automatically heat your home. However, they require a regular supply of pellets.
What should I look for when choosing a wood burning stove?
When choosing a wood burning stove, consider the following factors:
- Heat output: Make sure the stove has a heat output that is appropriate for the size of the space you want to heat.
- Efficiency: Choose a stove that is EPA-certified for optimal fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.
- Features: Some stoves come with features like built-in blowers, thermostats, and ash pans. Consider which features are important to you.
- Style: Choose a stove that complements the style of your home.
- Price: Wood burning stoves can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. Set a budget before you start shopping.
Conclusion
Choosing the right wood burning stove can transform your home into a cozy haven. From sleek modern designs to classic traditional styles, there’s a perfect stove to match your aesthetic and heating needs. Consider factors like size, efficiency, and features to find the ideal model for your space and budget. With proper installation and maintenance, your new wood burning stove will provide warmth, ambiance, and years of enjoyment.
