Of course the easiest stove is no stove, simply light a fire. In many locations, however, it is not permitted to collect wood and/or light an open/contained fire. Stoves can be broken down by the type of fuel they use:

• Gas – most stoves are gas/propane fueled. Great for multi-meal trips or larger groups. For example JetBoil.
• Solid – these stoves use solid tablets. Great as a back-up or for a few uses. For example Esbit UL.
• Liquid – usually a spirit alcohol or kerosene burner.
• Other – often these stoves are containers for twigs and or small pieces of wood.