Big Agnes Blacktail 2 Person tent Kelty Grand Mesa 2 Tent
Head-to-head comparison: specs, scores and expert verdict
Big Agnes
Big Agnes Blacktail 2 Person tent
Best for: Best budget entry-level backpacking tent.
Kelty
Kelty Grand Mesa 2 Tent
Best for: Budget-friendly backpacking and simple three-season camping.
Our Take
Worth flagging before you compare: the Big Agnes Blacktail 2 Person tent is a backpacking and the Kelty Grand Mesa 2 Tent is a dome, so these two sit in different shelter categories.
Both score 8.2 overall, though the Big Agnes Blacktail 2 Person tent wins more individual scoring categories.
The biggest gap is space and comfort, where the Big Agnes Blacktail 2 Person tent holds a clear advantage.
The Kelty Grand Mesa 2 Tent also has a price edge — $150 less at $149 versus $299.
Your best pick will come down to personal priorities, so check the full specs comparison below.
🏆 Our pick: The Big Agnes Blacktail 2 Person tent scores higher overall.
Score Comparison
Pros & Cons
Big Agnes Blacktail 2 Person tent
- Spacious 33 square foot floor
- Dual side entry and vestibules
- Durable recycled polyester construction
- Zips snag on thin fabric
- Crossbeam pole setup is confusing
Kelty Grand Mesa 2 Tent
- Quick-Corner easy setup
- Shark Mouth carry bag
- Lightweight aluminum poles
- Half-zip vestibule
- Flimsy stakes
Full Specs
| Spec | Big Agnes Blacktail 2 Person tent | Kelty Grand Mesa 2 Tent |
|---|---|---|
| Tent Type | Backpacking, Dome | Dome, Backpacking |
| Capacity | 1 person | 1 person |
| Seasons | 3 Season | 3 Season |
| Est. Price | $300 | $150 |
| Weight | 5.5 Lbs | 4 Lbs 12 Oz |
| Min Trail Weight | — | 4 Lbs 1 Oz |
| Floor Area | 33.0 ft² | 30.0 ft² |
| Vestibule Area | 9 + 9 Sq Ft | 6 Sq Ft |
| Peak Height | 42 | 43 |
| Doors | 2 | 1 |
| Floor Dimensions | 90 X 52 In | 85 X 57 In |
| Pole Material | Aluminum | Aluminum |
| Floor Fabric | Recycled 75D Polyester With 1,500 Mm Waterproof Polyurethane Coating | 68 Denier Polyester |
| Rainfly Fabric | 75D Polyester Taffeta | 68 Denier Polyester |
| Setup Time | 5 Mins | 3 Mins |
| Warranty | Lifetime | Limited |
| Made In | Imported | Imported |
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