• Size and weight - the weight of a camping stove can be from several ounces to many pounds. Also the weight of a stove, do not include the weight of fuel.
• Carrying case - most have a protective bag, but if that does not have, buy a padded bag for protection.
• Fuel - make sure you have enough fuel to you, or camp intro area where you can get more in case you run out. You may choose from a wide range of fuel such as: Butane, Propane, White Gas, Isobutene,  etc., also some fuel can accommodate a lantern head.
• Adjustable flame - if you can adjust the flame helps with cooking and makes it easy for you.
• Wind screens - very useful to stop the wind and keeps heat and heat the food/water faster.

Stove types:

• Petroleum Stoves (Kerosene, White Gas)
  - the standard stove, especially for hikers, because they are very light, durable and works well at high altitudes and low temperatures.
  - Pros:    -  if you want to use it in extreme cold
                  - you find fuel fast
                  - you prepare your food fast
  - Cons:      - the sound (like a jet engine)
                  - must do regular maintenance and repairs
                  - the fuel smell on your hands
                  - if you are not careful you can burn
  
• Liquefied Gas Stoves (Propane, Butane, Isobutene)
  - very easy to use, adjustable flames, but is nor working below freezing temperatures
  - Pros:      - this stove system burn clean
                  - works very easy and well (similar with your gas range from home)
  - Cons:     - if you want use on subfreezing temperatures (don't work).
                  - very expensive fuel
   
• Alcohol Stoves (Meth, Alky, Spirit)
  - home made stove
  - Pros:      - ultralight stove
                  - if you want to build your own stove
  - Cons:     - if you want to cook a lot of food or melt snow.
                  - not adjustable flame and temperature
• Chemical Solid Fuel Stoves (Hexamine, Triox, Hexy, Esbit, Fuel Tab)
  - the lightest system available, you can obtain hot water but you cant cook, very expensive fuel and hard to find in little towns
• Wood Stoves
  - this system is very hard and bulk, the only fuel is wood, hard to control the fire and you will smell like a forest fire.
• Solar Stoves
  - you can choose this if you are eco and have a lot of free time (slow cooking), you can use it only if you have sun.