A Stove That Goes Beyond Boiling Water
The Jetboil MiniMo is a compact, all-in-one cooking system designed for backpackers, bikepackers, and campers who want more than just a fast boil. With its wide, low-profile pot, precision simmer control, and integrated design, the MiniMo is built for real cooking—not just rehydrating freeze-dried meals.
We tested the MiniMo across multi-day hikes, wild camps, and vanlife setups to see how it performs in real-world conditions. Here’s why it’s become one of the most popular integrated stoves on the market.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Weight | 415g (14.6 oz) including pot and burner |
| Pot Capacity | 1 litre (FluxRing cook pot) |
| Boil Time | 2m 15s per 0.5L (average) |
| Burn Time | 30 mins per 8 oz canister |
| Fuel Type | Isobutane/propane canister |
| Ignition | Push-button piezo igniter |
| Simmer Control | Yes (regulator valve) |
| Packed Size | 127 x 140 mm (5 x 5.5 in) |
| Price | £130–£150 (varies by retailer) |
Design and Build Quality
The Jetboil MiniMo is an integrated stove system, meaning it includes:
- A burner
- A 1L FluxRing cook pot
- A lid with pour spout and strainer
- A fuel canister stabiliser
- A measuring cup/bowl (doubles as the pot’s bottom cover)
The wider, shorter pot is a major upgrade over previous Jetboil models. It’s easier to stir, eat from, and clean. The metal handles are sturdy and fold flat for packing, and the insulated cozy keeps food warm while protecting your hands.
The burner unit attaches securely to the pot and includes a regulator valve for precise flame control. The push-button igniter is reliable and eliminates the need for matches or a lighter.
Cooking Performance
This is where the MiniMo really shines. Unlike many ultralight stoves that only boil water, the MiniMo offers true simmer control, allowing you to:
- Sauté vegetables
- Simmer sauces
- Cook pasta or rice without burning
- Reheat leftovers gently
The regulator valve allows for incremental flame adjustments, and the FluxRing heat exchanger distributes heat evenly across the pot base. In testing, we were able to:
- Boil 0.5L of water in just over 2 minutes
- Simmer a curry for 15 minutes without scorching
- Cook porridge and pasta with no sticking
This makes the MiniMo ideal for backcountry gourmets, couples, or anyone who wants to cook real food on the trail.
Fuel Efficiency and Cold Weather Performance
The MiniMo is one of the most fuel-efficient stoves in its class. In controlled tests, it used just 0.28 oz of fuel to boil 1L of water. That means a single 100g canister can boil up to 12L of water—enough for several days of meals.
Thanks to its regulator and redesigned diaphragm, the MiniMo performs well in cold conditions (down to -6°C / 20°F). This makes it a reliable choice for:
Packability and Weight
At 415g, the MiniMo isn’t the lightest stove on the market—but it’s compact and self-contained. The burner, stabiliser, and a 100g fuel canister all fit inside the pot, making it easy to pack and carry.
The sideways burner storage design saves space, and the measuring cup/lid protects the pot base during transit. It fits neatly into most backpack side pockets or panniers.
For ultralight purists, the weight may be a dealbreaker—but for most users, the added functionality is worth the grams.
Everyday Use and Convenience
The MiniMo is packed with thoughtful features:
- Push-button igniter for fast, match-free lighting
- Pour spout and strainer lid for draining pasta or pouring drinks
- Measurement markings inside the pot
- Rubberised handles for safe handling
- Stable base with included tripod stand
These small details make a big difference in daily use. Whether you’re boiling water for coffee or cooking a full meal, the MiniMo is easy, intuitive, and safe to use.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent simmer control for real cooking
- Fast boil time (2m 15s for 0.5L)
- Fuel-efficient and cold-weather capable
- Compact, all-in-one design
- Wide pot is easier to cook and eat from
- Reliable push-button ignition
- Durable and well-built
Cons:
- Heavier than minimalist stove setups
- Pricey compared to basic stoves
- Lid doesn’t lock tightly when packed
- Not ideal for group cooking or large meals
Comparison: Jetboil MiniMo vs Jetboil Flash
| Feature | Jetboil MiniMo | Jetboil Flash |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 415g | 371g |
| Pot Size | 1L (wide) | 1L (tall) |
| Simmer Control | Yes | No |
| Boil Time (0.5L) | 2m 15s | 1m 40s |
| Best For | Cooking real meals | Boiling water quickly |
| Price (UK) | £130–£150 | £100–£120 |
The MiniMo is better for versatile cooking, while the Flash is ideal for fast, simple meals. If you want to do more than boil water, the MiniMo is the clear winner.
Ideal Use Cases
The Jetboil MiniMo is perfect for:
- Backpackers who want to cook real food
- Bikepackers with space for a compact stove
- Solo hikers or couples
- Cold-weather campers
- Vanlifers who want a quick, efficient stove
It’s less suited to:
- Ultralight thru-hikers
- Large group cooking
- Budget-conscious beginners
Final Verdict: Is the Jetboil MiniMo Worth It?
The Jetboil MiniMo is one of the best integrated stove systems available in 2025. It’s not the lightest or cheapest, but it offers unmatched versatility, fuel efficiency, and ease of use.
If you want a stove that can boil water fast and cook real meals, the MiniMo is a top-tier choice. It’s ideal for solo adventurers, couples, and anyone who values performance and convenience on the trail.
Rating: 9.3/10 Best for: Backpackers, bikepackers, and backcountry cooks Avoid if: You’re ultralight-focused or only need to boil water
