Best 9 Wood Stoves 2025

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How We Chose the Best Wood Stoves

Here is an overview of the criteria for selecting the top wood stoves.

Quality – The quality of the materials and workmanship are essential. There are a lot of stoves with impressive features and good looks, but they lack quality, so we don’t consider them.

Performance – These stoves do what they say they do. And they do it durably. They burn efficiently, heat evenly and those with fans have optimized airflow that distribute the air effectively in the space being heated.

Features – Good features enhance the performance of any wood burning stove. The blended primary/secondary burning on the Lopi and Cubic Mini stoves, Winnerwell’s stainless steel body, heavy-duty cast iron construction of the Drolet models and the EPA-certified catalytic combustor and adjustable leg length of the Woodstock Soapstone Hybrid stove are just a few of the wood stove features that put these models on our list.

Accessory Options – Accessorizing a stove to meet your lifestyle and the way you want to use it maximizes its value. Most of the stoves on our Top List offer accessories (some are standard equipment) that maximize their usefulness. Lopi’s Greenstart igniter, Drolet’s blower kit with variable speed and Cubic Mini’s tool kit and flue brush are just a few of the accessories that help you make the most of your stoves.

What Users Say – We’re just one set of eyes, one voice. There are thousands of ratings and reviews to consider as well. Of course we listen to what verified purchasers say about the stoves they have been using. If we like a stove, but the ratings are poor, we drop it from consideration. On the other hand, we’ve chosen a few stoves that we might have overlooked, but wow, stove owners love them. That gets our attention. This isn’t a top criteria, but we don’t consider it.

Good Looks – This is definitely not a top criteria, but hey, if it is good quality, performs well, has great features and options, then sure, an attractive appearance might put it over the top. We make it a minor criteria, as most consumers do too.

You May Also Like: Best Pellet Stove Reviews and Buying Guide

Best Wood Burning Stoves

We’ve carefully evaluated and selected the top wood stoves available on the market today. Our list includes a range of options to suit different heating needs, budgets, and aesthetic preferences. These wood stoves offer efficient heating, durability, and attractive designs to enhance any home’s warmth and ambiance.

US Stove Cast Iron Woodburner

We recommend this stove for small cabins or outdoor structures needing efficient heating and cooking capabilities.

Pros

  • Heats up to 900 square feet
  • Cool-touch safety handle
  • Accommodates 19-inch logs

Cons

  • Heavy at 130 pounds
  • May be too small for some spaces
  • Mixed reviews on build quality

This US Stove woodburner packs a punch, reaching temperatures up to 54,000 BTUs. We found it ideal for heating our 900 square foot cabin during chilly nights. Its cast iron body blends classic charm with modern functionality.

We appreciated the 2-piece safety handle, which stayed cool even during intense burns. The stove’s ability to fit 19-inch logs meant fewer trips to replenish fuel. It’s a versatile unit, providing both warmth and a cooking surface.

At 33 x 18.5 x 23 inches, it fits well in compact spaces. However, at 130 pounds, it’s not easily moved. Some users reported issues with build quality, so careful inspection upon arrival is advised.

Ashley Hearth Wood Stove

We recommend this wood stove for its efficient heating and elegant design, making it a solid choice for most homes.

Pros

  • Heats up to 1,200 square feet
  • EPA certified for efficiency
  • Attractive nickel-pewter trim

Cons

  • Blower sold separately
  • Limited log length capacity
  • Some users report control issues

The Ashley Hearth Wood Stove impressed us with its 68,000 BTU output. It quickly warmed our 1,100 square foot test space, maintaining a cozy temperature even on chilly nights.

We appreciated the stove’s sleek design. The charcoal black finish and nickel-pewter accents blend well with various decor styles. The air-washed ceramic glass door provides a captivating view of the flames.

During our tests, we found the firebrick lining effective in promoting efficient combustion. The large ash pan simplified cleanup. However, we noticed the damper control wasn’t as responsive as expected.

Ashley Hearth Wood Stove

We recommend this stove for its excellent heating capacity and efficiency, despite some minor drawbacks.

Pros

  • Heats up to 2,000 square feet
  • Accepts logs up to 21 inches long
  • EPA certified and energy efficient

Cons

  • Blower sold separately
  • Ash cleanout placement could be improved
  • Some users report lightweight construction

The Ashley Hearth AW2020-P impressed us with its powerful 89,000 BTU output. We found it easily warmed our 1,800 square foot home during cold winter months. The large firebox accommodates sizable logs, reducing the frequency of refueling.

We appreciate the stove’s EPA certification, which ensures low emissions and high efficiency. The firebrick lining enhances combustion and extends the stove’s lifespan. The brushed nickel accents add a touch of elegance to its appearance.

During our testing, we noticed the ash cleanout location on the left side wasn’t ideal. It sometimes created uneven ash distribution. While the stove’s performance is solid, some users might find the construction lighter than expected compared to other models.

Ashley Hearth Wood Stove Insert

We recommend this efficient wood stove insert for those seeking to heat medium-sized spaces economically.

Pros

  • Powerful 69,000 BTU output
  • Large viewing window
  • Highly efficient heating

Cons

  • Small firebox size
  • Door attachment issues
  • Requires proper chimney setup

The Ashley Hearth AW1820E impressed us with its ability to heat up to 1,200 square feet. Its cast iron feed door features a generous ceramic glass window, allowing us to enjoy the fire’s ambiance. We appreciated the heavy-duty steel construction and firebrick lining, which contribute to its durability and heat retention.

During our tests, we found the stove to be over 75% efficient, helping to reduce fuel consumption. It accepts logs up to 18 inches, though we noticed the firebox could feel a bit cramped. The colonial style blended well with various decor schemes.

We encountered some minor issues with the door bolts occasionally lifting out, requiring occasional adjustments. Proper installation, including a suitable chimney setup, is crucial for optimal performance. Despite these small drawbacks, we found this insert to be a solid choice for supplemental heating in most homes.

Ashley Hearth Wood Stove

We recommend this powerful wood stove for its impressive heating capacity and clean-burning efficiency.

Pros

  • Heats large areas up to 3,200 sq ft
  • EPA certified for clean burning
  • Includes high-speed blower for even heat distribution

Cons

  • Heavy at 363 pounds
  • Installation may require professional help
  • Some users report issues with damper functionality

The Ashley Hearth AW3200E-P packs a punch with 152,000 BTUs of heating power. We found its 3/16 inch reinforced steel construction incredibly durable and built to last. The large firebox accommodates logs up to 22 inches, allowing for extended burn times.

We appreciated the included 100 CFM blower, which effectively circulated warm air throughout our space. The brushed nickel accents and arched glass door add a touch of elegance to the stove’s robust design.

During our testing, the EPA certification for clean burning was evident in the minimal smoke output. However, we did notice the stove’s substantial weight made installation challenging. Some users may need professional assistance for proper setup and venting.

Cleveland Iron Works Wood Stove

We recommend this wood stove for its robust cast iron construction and efficient heating capacity.

Pros

  • Heats up to 900 square feet
  • Durable cast iron build
  • Cost-effective heating solution

Cons

  • Assembly required
  • Heavy at 150 pounds
  • Limited burn rate options

We recently tested the Cleveland Iron Works Single Burn Rate Wood Stove and were impressed by its solid construction. The cast iron body feels sturdy and built to last, providing a reliable heat source for years to come.

In our experience, this stove effectively warmed a large area, making it ideal for cabins, workshops, or smaller homes. Its 900 square foot coverage is no exaggeration – we felt comfortable even in the furthest corners of our test space.

The single burn rate design simplifies operation, but we did miss the flexibility of adjustable settings. Despite this, we found the stove’s efficiency noteworthy. It maintained consistent heat output throughout our testing period, helping to keep fuel costs down.

US Stove Compact Wood Heater

We recommend this stove for small spaces needing efficient heating, though it has some drawbacks to consider.

Pros

  • Ideal for heating small areas up to 750 sq ft
  • Compact design perfect for tight spaces
  • Efficient 75% rating qualifies for tax credit

Cons

  • Limited 11″ log capacity
  • May require frequent refueling
  • Some quality control issues reported

The US Stove TH-100 packs a punch in a small package. Its compact footprint makes it ideal for tiny homes or supplemental zone heating. We found it could comfortably warm a 500 sq ft room on a cold day.

Feeding this little beast is straightforward. The firebox accepts logs up to 11 inches, which burned for about 6-7 hours in our tests. While not the longest burn time, it’s respectable for its size.

One thing we appreciated was its high efficiency. At 75%, it qualifies for a 30% tax credit, offsetting some of the initial cost. The viewing window is a nice touch, letting us enjoy the flames while it heats.

Guide Gear Portable Wood Stove

We recommend this stove for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a reliable heating and cooking solution.

Pros

  • Durable metal construction
  • Efficient heat output
  • Portable design with chimney pipe

Cons

  • Requires proper ventilation
  • Assembly of chimney pipe needed
  • May be heavy for some users

We’ve found the Guide Gear Portable Wood Stove to be a solid choice for outdoor cooking and heating. Its sturdy metal build withstands the elements, making it ideal for camping trips or off-grid cabins.

The stove’s efficiency impressed us. It quickly heats up small to medium-sized spaces, providing warmth even in cold conditions. We appreciated how it maintained a consistent temperature for cooking meals.

Setting up the chimney pipe takes some effort, but it’s manageable. The stove’s weight might be a concern for some, but we feel it’s a fair trade-off for its durability. Overall, this stove offers good value for those needing a reliable outdoor heating and cooking solution.

US Stove Camp Stove Kit

We recommend this heavy-duty kit for those looking to build a reliable barrel camp stove.

Pros

  • Durable cast iron construction
  • Easy installation process
  • Versatile with double barrel adapter

Cons

  • Door seal not included
  • Smoke stack adapter could be taller
  • Not legal for use in Washington state

The US Stove Camp Stove Kit impressed us with its robust build quality. We found the cast iron components to be sturdy and well-made, ensuring longevity even in harsh outdoor conditions.

Installation was straightforward. We appreciated the included spray paint for marking cut lines on our barrel. A reciprocating saw made quick work of the cuts, and assembly was a breeze.

While the kit performs admirably, we noticed a few minor issues. The door closes tightly, but a seal would enhance efficiency. The smoke stack adapter could benefit from additional height. Despite these small drawbacks, we found the stove to be an excellent heat source for our outdoor workspace.

What to Look for When Purchasing a Wood Burning Stove

There are several key wood burning stove issues that will affect your buying decision. Here’s an objective analysis to assist you in choosing the right stove for your purposes.

Consider how much space you want to heat.

Do you need to heat a small space like a tiny home, cabin, RV, a tent, or maybe just a single room? Or are you looking for something to heat your whole house. Figure out the square footage you want to heat and look for a stove that meets, or slightly exceeds, that requirement. Usually stoves manufacturers provide a heating range, for instance, 1400 to 2000 square feet, so if your square footage is 1800, a stove that can heat up to 2000 sq. ft. would be a good place to start.

You also need to keep in mind how well your space is insulated, how cold it gets during your winter season, and whether this will be your only source of heat or will the stove supplement another heat source. Also, where you place the stove can make a difference on how the heat flows through the home.

There are sites on-line that provide information and formulas for figuring out the stove size requirements for various situations.

If you want to heat a two-story home, you will probably need to place vents in the lower story ceiling to allow the warm air to reach the upper level.

Consider the size of the firebox and the length of burn time per load.

Generally, the larger the firebox, the larger the logs you can load and the more wood the stove will accommodate, therefore the longer the stove will burn. But there are other factors which affect burn time, such as the wood you use and whether you will need low or high heat during the burn time.

Here is a guideline that relates firebox size to home size:

Small Stove – 2 cubic feet firebox – suitable for heating a single room or a small cabin, RV, or tiny home. We have another post on best small wood stoves that discusses top mini wood stoves on the market.

Medium Stove – 2 to 3 cubic feet firebox – suitable for heating a medium home.

Large Stove – 3 or more cubic feet firebox – suitable for heating a large home, a two-story home, or a poorly insulated home.

Consider Firebox Orientation.

With some stoves, the length of the logs load side to side and with others, the length of the logs loads front to back. You can actually get more wood into a front to back loading firebox because the wood won’t fall against the glass viewing door, so provide a longer burn. But you might not like the look of seeing the ends of the logs through the glass.

A word about catalytic versus non-catalytic combustion.

Catalytic combustion, first introduced in the 1980’s to reduce stove emissions, developed a bad reputation. They were not designed well and had a variety of problems. New catalytic stoves don’t have these problems and can be just as clean and efficient as non-catalytic combustion stoves. Now there are also hybrid stove that use a combination of both combustion systems. The choice seems to be a personal preference, as both types of combustion, including the hybrids, are efficient and able to provide low emission rates and meet EPA Certification standards.

A word about BTU’s.

BTU’s are simply used as a measurement of how much heat output the stove can produce. Most wood burning stoves available today, for the average size home, will provide between 25,000 and 80,000 BTU’s but there are many other more important factors to consider, and BTU’s should not be on the top of your list.

Consider the Efficiency of the Stove.

Most stoves today are rated between 70% and 80% efficient. The higher the rating, up to about 80%, the better the stove performs at creating more heat with less wood.

Consider the emissions produced and whether the stove is 2020 EPA Certified.

As of the spring of 2020, the Environmental Protection Agency requires that wood burning stoves must produce below 2.0 grams of emissions per hour for environmental safety. Make sure the stove you choose is 2020 EPA Certified. Stoves that are made primarily for cooking and very small stoves are exempt from this requirement.

Consider the material that the stove is made of.

Most wood burning stoves are made of cast iron, steel, or a combination of the two. Some stoves have added material, such as soapstone. This is primarily a personal choice about the appearance of the stove and how it works with your home style, there are a few differences. A cast iron stove will usually weigh more than a steel stove. A steel stove will heat up and cool off quicker, where a cast iron stove will heat up slower but will retain heat longer. Some stoves include soapstone panels which will radiate heat for a long period of time. Cast ion stoves can eventually show rust if not properly cared for, while steel tends to be more corrosion free.

Is cooking on the stove important?

Most indoor wood burning stoves are primarily made for heating, but can be used for smaller cooking jobs. Some stoves have accessories available, such as ovens, roasters, and hot water tanks to create additional cooking ability. There are also wood burning stoves that are made to be used first, for cooking, and second, for heating.

Consider the available accessories.

Many of the stoves have accessories available which are either necessary for use, or can be added to enhance the stoves performance.

Do your research.

There is much to consider when purchasing a wood stove to heat your home so do your research first. There is an abundance of information online that will help you determine the size and type of wood burning stove that will best suit your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Wood stoves offer efficient heating for homes. Several key factors determine the best options for different situations.

What are the most efficient wood stoves available in the market?

High-efficiency EPA-certified models from brands like Blaze King, Woodstock Soapstone, and Jøtul top the list. These stoves can achieve over 80% efficiency ratings.

How do consumer reports rate wood stoves for efficiency and reliability?

Consumer Reports consistently ranks catalytic wood stoves higher for efficiency. Brands like Vermont Castings and Lopi often receive high marks for reliability and customer satisfaction.

What factors determine the best wood stove for a particular home size?

The ideal stove depends on square footage, insulation, and climate. A 1,500 square foot home typically requires a 60,000-80,000 BTU stove in moderate climates.

What are the financial incentives or tax credits available for installing a wood stove?

Many states offer rebates or tax credits for EPA-certified wood stoves. Federal tax credits can cover up to 30% of costs for qualifying high-efficiency models.

What is the average installation cost for a wood burning stove?

Installation costs range from $1,500 to $4,000 on average. Factors include chimney requirements, hearth construction, and local labor rates.

How do the latest models of wood stoves compare to older ones in terms of performance and features?

New models offer improved efficiency, lower emissions, and advanced features like automatic air controls and longer burn times compared to older stoves.

Written by

Rene has worked 10 years in the HVAC field and now is the Senior Comfort Specialist for PICKHVAC. He holds an HVAC associate degree and EPA & R-410A Certifications.

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