Differences between the MSR PocketRocket 2 and the MSR PocketRocket Deluxe Stove

Ever wondered what the differences were between the MSR PocketRocket 2 and the MSR PocketRocket Deluxe Stove? You’re not alone!

But don’t stress! By the time you get to the end of this blog, you’ll have a good idea as to which of these brilliant stoves are right for you. 

A little background information about these stoves:

The MSR PocketRocket 2 was designed and created after the PocketRocket model became MSR’s best selling stove. This updated version was even smaller and lighter, whilst remaining a high-performance stove for fast cooking and easy travel.

The MSR PocketRocket Deluxe is an even newer addition to the PocketRocket series, and was designed as a highly equipped micro-stove packed with big-stove features.

The Similarities

Before we get into the differences between these two stoves, it’ll be helpful to know first how they are similar.

Both of these stoves are a part of the MSR PocketRocket® stoves series, which have been a favourite of backpackers for more than a decade. This is thanks to how ultralight and compact these stoves are, whilst also being trusted for their reliability.

Their similarities can be boiled down to the following:

• Ultralight

• Fast-boiling (3.5 minutes or less for 1L of water)

• Incredibly compact

• Sturdy and durable

• Simmer control

• Folding pot supports

• Stainless steel design

• Requires no maintenance

So, whichever stove you choose to go with, you can guarantee that you’ll get all of these fantastic features!

The Differences

Now let's take a look at the differences between the two stoves:

Weight:

PocketRocket 2: 73g (2.6oz) [MSR’s lightest stove]

PocketRocket Deluxe: 83g (2.9oz)

Boil Time:

PocketRocket 2: 3 minutes 30 seconds

PocketRocket Deluxe: 3 minutes 20 seconds

Design:

PocketRocket 2: MSR’s smallest stove, minimalistic and utilitarian

PocketRocket Deluxe: Pressure regulator for consistently fast boil times, built-in Piezo push-start ignition, broad burner head with wind lip

Fits in:

PocketRocket 2: MSR Titan Cup (0.4L)

PocketRocket Deluxe: MSR Pika Teapot (1L)

Best For:

PocketRocket 2: Absolute minimal pack weight and good weather conditions.

PocketRocket Deluxe: Ultralight travel in a range of weather conditions, including colder conditions. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, both stoves are fantastic examples of high-quality gear, however each should be used with their best features in mind.

If your goal is to keep the gram weight of your pack as low as possible for a fast and light trip in decent weather conditions (so we’re talking warm weather with little wind), and get a brilliant trustworthy cooking experience at a lower price point, then I’d recommend the MSR PocketRocket 2 stove.

However, if you’re planning on being out in colder weather conditions, with added premium features, I’d recommend the MSR PocketRocket Deluxe stove. Although this stove is heavier (albeit only by 10g), and isn’t quite as compact, the added features of this stove are definitely worth it (at least in our opinion!).

The built-in pressure regulator (also found in the bigger WindBurner and Reactor system stoves) minimises the impact of environment impacts such as cold weather to ensure the stove delivers consistently fast boil times. 

The built-in piezo lighter means you’re able to light up the PocketRocket Deluxe with a simple push of a button. Extra precautions were taken in the design of this, such as ensuring no wires were left on the external portion of the body, and placing the electrode igniter deep within the burner cup for maximum protection. These precautions were taken so that the piezo lighter didn’t become a weak point on the stove, protecting the durability. 

Finally, the broader burner spreads the flame’s focus, making it easier to cook real food without scorching rather than just boiling water. The burner’s lip also increases wind resistance, boosting the stove’s efficiency.

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