Jetboil HalfGen Stove
Quick Verdict
Car-camping/basecamp cooking, solo or small-group campsite meals where weight isn't critical
Ultralight backpacking or long-distance hikes due to weight and bulk
Key Specifications
About This Gear
Half the size of the Genesis, the HalfGen is great for solo or duo camping. It shares the quick heating and even distribution traits. Like the Genesis, it requires proprietary fuel canisters.
Pros & Cons
Synthesized from expert reviews and user feedback
What People Love
6 positive findingsReliable ignition and easy setup with a stable regulator for fine simmer control
Most reviewersExcellent flame control allowing precise simmering from low to full boil
Most reviewersFast heating — 10,000 BTU burner boils ~1 L in ~3m15s
Most reviewersModular JetLink connector to link multiple units for expanded cook capacity
Most reviewers
Things to Consider
5 considerationsIncluded ceramic nonstick pan is flimsy and prone to scratching/chipping
Most reviewersAccessory quality (windscreen, rubber straps) can feel flimsy or break
Some reviewersWeight and size make it impractical for backpacking (~3.5 lb system)
Most reviewersUses 16.4 oz Jetboil propane bottles only (no butane/isobutane compatibility without adapter)
Most reviewers
Weather & Conditions
How this gear performs across different environments and seasons
Temperature Range
Performs best in moderate temperatures; regulated to about -6°C (20°F) but struggles in extreme cold
Weather Performance
Climate Suitability
Excels In
- mild rain or light snow with shelter
- moderate temperatures
- coastal and temperate environments
Limitations
- Not recommended for winter camping below its regulated spec (~20°F) or in heavy wind/rain
- Open burner vulnerable to strong crosswinds; avoid in severe weather
What People Are Saying
Aggregated insights from expert reviews and user feedback
Users praise the HalfGen for reliable ignition, precise flame control, and strong boil performance at basecamp; common complaints focus on the fragile nonstick pan and some flimsy accessories.
What Users Love
- reliable ignition
- fine flame control
- fast boil performance
- modular JetLink system
Common Concerns
- pan coating chips easily
- windscreen/straps feel flimsy
- too heavy for backpacking
- pan coating prone to chipping or scratching after light use
- occasional reports of strap breakage
- stove body and burner matrix appear robust and durable
not applicable
1-year limited warranty; no widespread reports of warranty claim issues
Expert Reviews
REI customers average ~4.5/5 across 100+ reviews, praising performance and reliabilityRead full review →
Care & Maintenance
Keep your gear performing at its best with these tips
Maintenance Tips
Keep it in top condition- Use nonmetal utensils and avoid abrasive scrubbing on the pan
- Store dry and strap parts together to prevent rattling/damage
- Inspect and replace rubber straps if frayed; keep burner ports clean of grit
Watch Out For
Known issues to monitor- ceramic nonstick pan coating chipping or scratching
- rubber compression straps snapping or degrading
- windscreen bending or feeling flimsy
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Frequently Asked Questions
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