A New Standard in Camp Cooking
The RidgeMonkey Quad Connect XL isn’t just another portable stove—it’s a modular, dual-burner system designed for campers who take their cooking seriously. With a unique square footprint, adjustable legs, and the ability to connect a second burner via a quick-release system, it’s built for versatility and performance.
Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a group, the Quad Connect XL offers a level of control and stability rarely seen in portable gas stoves. We tested it across multiple camping trips to see how it performs in real-world conditions.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Burners | Modular dual-burner system (primary + optional secondary) |
| Material | Stainless steel body and braided hoses |
| Weight | ~3.5 kg (primary unit) |
| Dimensions | 32 x 32 x 8 cm (folded) |
| Fuel Type | Butane/propane mix (screw-on canisters) |
| Ignition | Piezo push-button ignition |
| Legs | Adjustable for uneven ground |
| Price | £149.99 (primary unit), £99.99 (secondary head) |
Design and Build Quality
The first thing you notice about the Quad Connect XL is its square, low-profile design. Unlike traditional rectangular stoves, the square footprint offers exceptional stability, especially when using larger pans or Dutch ovens.
The stainless steel construction feels premium and rugged. The braided steel gas hoses are a welcome upgrade over the plastic tubing found on cheaper stoves, and the quick-release connectors are intuitive and secure.
The adjustable legs are a standout feature. They allow you to level the stove on uneven ground—whether you’re cooking on a rocky pitch or a sloped van floor.
Modular Cooking System
What sets the Quad Connect XL apart is its modular design. The primary burner can be used on its own or connected to a secondary burner head using a self-sealing quick-release system. This allows you to:
- Cook two dishes at once
- Boil water while simmering a sauce
- Use different pan sizes without crowding
The secondary head is sold separately, but it’s a worthwhile upgrade for group camping or more elaborate meals.
Performance and Flame Control
The Quad Connect XL delivers impressive heat output with excellent flame control. The piezo ignition works reliably, and the flame is easy to adjust from a gentle simmer to a roaring boil.
In testing, we were able to:
- Boil 1 litre of water in under 4 minutes
- Simmer pasta sauce without scorching
- Fry eggs evenly on a wide skillet
The burner heads are recessed, which helps shield the flame from wind. For breezy conditions, pairing it with a folding windscreen improves efficiency even further.
Fuel Efficiency
Despite its power, the Quad Connect XL is surprisingly fuel-efficient. A single 450g gas canister lasted:
- ~2.5 hours on medium flame
- ~1.5 hours on full blast with both burners
The self-sealing connectors make it easy to swap canisters without leaks, and the stove is compatible with standard screw-on butane/propane mix canisters widely available in the UK and Europe.
Portability and Storage
At 3.5 kg, the Quad Connect XL isn’t ultralight—but it’s not trying to be. This is a basecamp stove, not a backpacking burner. That said, it packs down neatly into a compact square form, and the carry case (sold separately) makes transport easy.
The modular design also means you can leave the secondary burner at home for solo trips, reducing bulk.
Practical Features
- Adjustable legs: Level the stove on uneven ground
- Quick-release gas connectors: Fast, secure setup
- Piezo ignition: No matches or lighters needed
- Stainless steel construction: Easy to clean and built to last
- Modular expansion: Add a second burner when needed
These features make the Quad Connect XL one of the most user-friendly and versatile stoves we’ve tested.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptionally stable square design
- Modular dual-burner system
- Adjustable legs for uneven terrain
- Fuel-efficient and wind-resistant
- Durable stainless steel construction
- Reliable piezo ignition
- Expandable and future-proof
Cons:
- Heavier than single-burner stoves
- Secondary burner sold separately
- Premium price point
- Not ideal for ultralight or solo backpacking
Comparison: RidgeMonkey Quad Connect XL vs Campingaz 400-S
| Feature | RidgeMonkey Quad Connect XL | Campingaz 400-S |
|---|---|---|
| Burners | 1–2 (modular) | 2 |
| Weight | ~3.5 kg | ~4.2 kg |
| Material | Stainless steel | Plastic + metal |
| Ignition | Piezo | Piezo |
| Legs | Adjustable | Fixed |
| Price (UK) | £149.99 (primary) | £110–£130 |
The RidgeMonkey offers better build quality, modularity, and stability, while the Campingaz is more affordable but less refined.
Ideal Use Cases
The Quad Connect XL is perfect for:
- Car campers and vanlifers who want a reliable, compact stove
- Group campers who need dual-burner flexibility
- Camp chefs who want to cook real meals, not just boil water
- Festival goers who want a stable, easy-to-use setup
It’s less suited to:
- Backpackers or bikepackers due to weight
- Minimalist campers who only need a single burner
Final Verdict: Is the RidgeMonkey Quad Connect XL Worth It?
The RidgeMonkey Quad Connect XL is one of the most thoughtfully designed and well-built portable stoves on the market. Its modular dual-burner system, adjustable legs, and rock-solid stability make it a standout choice for serious campers and vanlifers.
While it’s not the cheapest or lightest option, it offers exceptional value for those who prioritise performance, durability, and expandability. If you’re tired of flimsy stoves and want a setup that feels like a proper kitchen burner, the Quad Connect XL is worth every penny.
Rating: 9.4/10 Best for: Camp chefs, vanlifers, and group campers Avoid if: You need an ultralight stove for solo trekking
