Don't forget, we're talking to a beginner hiker who most likely will be learning everything else involved as well. That's why I recommend a canister stove. I guarantee I can put one together and start it in less than two minutes and that includes taking it out of the bag or pot I carry it in. Yes, those other stoves all have their merits and I have several as I stated above, but for simplicity, you can't beat a canister.