The Alpkit Kraku Ultralight Stove is one of the lightest gas stoves on the market, designed for ultralight backpackers, bikepackers, and minimalist campers who want reliable cooking performance without the bulk. Weighing just 45g, this titanium stove is built for fast boil times, compact packing, and simplicity in the wild. In this detailed review, we’ll explore its design, performance, usability, and how it compares to other ultralight stoves available in the UK and beyond.
Design and Build Quality
The Kraku is crafted from titanium and aluminium alloy, giving it an exceptional strength-to-weight ratio. The minimalist design features three folding pot supports, a compact burner head, and a standard screw-thread connection compatible with EN417 gas canisters. The pot supports fold neatly around the burner, allowing the stove to pack down to a size that fits inside most cook pots or mugs.
Despite its featherweight build, the Kraku feels solid in hand. The pot supports lock into place with a satisfying click, and the flame control valve is smooth and responsive. There’s no piezo ignition—this is a stripped-down stove for users who prefer simplicity and reliability over added features.
The titanium construction also resists corrosion and heat deformation, making it suitable for repeated use in varied conditions. It’s not flashy, but it’s purpose-built for ultralight efficiency.
Weight and Packability
At just 45g, the Kraku is among the lightest stoves available anywhere. It’s ideal for:
- Bikepacking setups where every gram counts
- Thru-hiking and fastpacking missions
- Minimalist wild camping with limited pack space
- Emergency or backup stove in a larger kit
Its tiny footprint means it can be stored inside a mug, cook pot, or dry bag with ease. When paired with Alpkit’s MytiPot 900 or similar titanium cookware, it forms a compact and efficient cooking system that’s hard to beat for weight-conscious travellers.
Flame Output and Boil Time
The Kraku delivers a maximum output of 2600W, which is impressive given its size. In field tests, it can boil 500ml of water in around 3–4 minutes, depending on wind and ambient temperature. The flame is focused and powerful, though narrower than larger stoves—making it better suited for boiling and reheating than for gourmet simmering.
There’s no integrated windscreen, so performance can drop in breezy conditions. Using a lightweight foil windscreen or natural shelter is recommended to maintain efficiency. The flame control is precise enough for basic simmering, but the stove excels most at rapid boiling and simple meals.
Stability and Pot Support
The Kraku’s three-pronged pot support is surprisingly stable for its size, but it’s best paired with smaller pots (600–900ml range). Larger or heavier cookware may feel precarious, especially on uneven surfaces. For solo cooking or boiling water, the support is more than adequate.
The stove screws securely onto standard gas canisters, and the low profile helps keep the centre of gravity manageable. Still, users should take care when cooking on rocky or sloped terrain.
Durability and Maintenance
Titanium is known for its durability, and the Kraku lives up to that reputation. The burner head resists clogging, and the flame control valve remains smooth even after extended use. There are no moving parts beyond the valve and pot supports, which reduces the risk of mechanical failure.
Maintenance is minimal—just wipe clean after use and store dry. The stove doesn’t include a carry case, but most users stash it inside their cook pot or wrap it in a cloth to prevent scratching.
Use Cases and Versatility
The Kraku is ideal for:
- Ultralight solo camping
- Bikepacking and gravel touring
- Emergency or backup stove
- Minimalist travel and fastpacking
It’s not designed for group cooking, gourmet meals, or extreme alpine conditions. But for boiling water, heating dehydrated meals, or making coffee in the wild, it’s a top performer.
Comparisons and Alternatives
Here’s how the Kraku compares to other ultralight stoves:
| Stove Model | Weight | Output | Ignition | Wind Resistance | Price Range | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpkit Kraku | 45g | 2600W | Manual | Moderate | £25–£30 | Ultralight solo camping |
| BRS-3000T | 25g | 2700W | Manual | Poor | £12–£20 | Budget ultralight setups |
| MSR PocketRocket 2 | 73g | 2400W | Manual | Fair | £45–£60 | General backpacking |
| Soto Amicus | 75g | 2800W | Optional | Good | £50–£70 | All-round performance |
| Fire Maple FMS-300T | 45g | 2600W | Manual | Moderate | £20–£35 | Lightweight travel |
The Kraku offers a strong balance of weight, power, and durability—especially for UK-based adventurers who want a reliable stove without overspending.
Pros and Cons Summary
Pros:
- Ultralight titanium construction (45g)
- Compact and highly packable
- Strong flame output (2600W)
- Durable and corrosion-resistant
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- No piezo ignition
- Narrow flame spread
- Limited pot stability for large cookware
- No windscreen included
Final Verdict
The Alpkit Kraku is a minimalist’s dream stove—tiny, powerful, and built to last. It’s ideal for solo campers, bikepackers, and ultralight travellers who prioritise weight savings and simplicity. While it’s not suited for gourmet cooking or group meals, it excels at boiling water and heating basic meals with speed and efficiency.
For those building a compact, modular cooking system, the Kraku is a smart investment. It’s proof that great gear doesn’t need to be heavy—or expensive—to perform in the wild.
