The 8 Best Stirling Engines

This wiki has been updated 32 times since it was first published in August of 2015. Despite being relegated to few applications for the past century, Stirling engines are having something of a renaissance due to concerns over fossil fuel availability and climate change. In any case, they are a great learning tool that can be used to teach people about the inner workings of engines. They also make attractive desktop pieces for an office, and excellent gifts for hobbyists. When users buy our independently chosen editorial selections, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.

This wiki has been updated 32 times since it was first published in August of 2015. Despite being relegated to few applications for the past century, Stirling engines are having something of a renaissance due to concerns over fossil fuel availability and climate change. In any case, they are a great learning tool that can be used to teach people about the inner workings of engines. They also make attractive desktop pieces for an office, and excellent gifts for hobbyists. When users buy our independently chosen editorial choices, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.

1. Sunnytech Hot Air SC02M

In addition to being one of the most attractive models on the market, the Sunnytech Hot Air SC02M (about $96) is also one of the quietest, allowing you to show it off in an office environment without it disrupting any of your coworkers.

Runs at up to 1700 rpm
Multicolored led lights
Includes spare glass components

2. Sunnytech LT001

The Sunnytech LT001 (around $35) comes in several colors, such as bronze, black, and silver, so you can match it to any decor, and its flywheel can reach speeds of up to 200 RPM. This low-cost model needs a 20-degree Celsius temperature differential to start moving.

Fits on most coffee mugs
20 minutes of motion from one cup
Ready to go out of the box

3. PeleusTech Physics Model

Fans of aviation will appreciate the design of the PeleusTech Physics Model (appx. $389), which uses heat energy flowing through 16 pistons to move an attractive propeller. Its elegant wood base is stained beautifully for presentation purposes.

Creates a nice breeze
Runs on butane rather than alcohol
Made from stainless steel

4. Dstar Vehicle

The Dstar Vehicle (about $135) takes the power it generates and transfers it to one axle of its four-wheeled base, allowing it to move in a straight line. It can get going pretty fast, though, so be careful setting it down where the flame could become a hazard.

Stands roughly three inches tall
Rear wheel drive system
Can blow itself out as it runs

5. DStar Metal LTD-1

The DStar Metal LTD-1 (around $76) is designed to run at a lower temperature differential than many other models, operating off a cup of hot water. It has robust connections that can stand up to years of fast revolutions per minute, and a small footprint lets it fit almost anywhere.

Clear cylinder walls
Makes a good conversation starter
Doesn't work well with cold water

6. Sunnytech Educational SC001

The Sunnytech Educational SC001 (appx. $50) is ideal as a teaching aide or just as an interesting curio on an office desk. It uses the expansion of air, or other gasses, to produce high RPMs from a minimal temperature difference, and comes with a spare glass cylinder.

Includes a flashing led
Protective rubber feet
Arrives assembled

7. Elenker Steel Kit

The Elenker Steel Kit (about $29) comes in two styles, both of which are great for watching and learning about the internal workings of such a device. It arrives mostly assembled, making it a good choice for those who aren't mechanically minded.

Feels well-made
Heats up quickly
Not the smoothest motion

8. DStar LED Light

The DStar LED Light (around $109) is built to last, being made with high-quality machined parts that can be replaced easily if any component fails. It is a stylish design that looks great on a desk or table, which makes it a good gift option.

Demonstrates energy conversion well
Leds powered by a small generator
A bit too noisy

Last updated by Daniel Imperiale

Daniel Imperiale holds a bachelor’s degree in writing, and proudly fled his graduate program in poetry to pursue a quiet life at a remote Alaskan fishery. After returning to the contiguous states, he took up a position as an editor and photographer of the prestigious geek culture magazine “Unwinnable” before turning his attention to the field of health and wellness. In recent years, he has worked extensively in film and music production, making him something of a know-it-all when it comes to camera equipment, musical instruments, recording devices, and other audio-visual hardware. Daniel’s recent obsessions include horology (making him a pro when it comes to all things timekeeping) and Uranium mining and enrichment (which hasn’t proven useful just yet).

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