Big Agnes Blacktail 2 Person tent MSR Elixir 1 Tent with Footprint
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.
MSR
MSR Elixir 1 Tent with Footprint
Best for: Versatile, durable shelter for backpackers.
Our Take
Both are backpacking tents, so this is a direct apples-to-apples comparison.
The MSR Elixir 1 Tent with Footprint adds a included footprint — a meaningful structural difference.
Floor space is also wider — 33 sq ft versus 18 sq ft for the MSR Elixir 1 Tent with Footprint.
Both score 8.2 overall, though the Big Agnes Blacktail 2 Person tent wins more individual scoring categories.
The biggest gap is value for money, where the Big Agnes Blacktail 2 Person tent holds a clear advantage.
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
MSR Elixir 1 Tent with Footprint
- Spacious interior fits wide pads
- Color-coded poles ensure easy setup
- Durable fabric provides great privacy
- Heavy pack weight
- Inner-first pitch in the rain
Full Specs
| Spec | Big Agnes Blacktail 2 Person tent | MSR Elixir 1 Tent with Footprint |
|---|---|---|
| Tent Type | Backpacking, Dome | Backpacking, Dome |
| Capacity | 1 person | 1 person |
| Seasons | 3 Season | 3 Season |
| Est. Price | $300 | $290 |
| Weight | 5.5 Lbs | 5 Lbs 5 Oz |
| Min Trail Weight | — | 4 Lbs 1 Oz |
| Floor Area | 33.0 ft² | 18.0 ft² |
| Vestibule Area | 9 + 9 Sq Ft | 12 Sq. Ft. |
| Peak Height | 42 | 39 |
| Doors | 2 | 1 |
| Floor Dimensions | 90 X 52 In | 88 X 30 In |
| Pole Material | Aluminum | Aluminum |
| Floor Fabric | Recycled 75D Polyester With 1,500 Mm Waterproof Polyurethane Coating | 75D Taffeta Poly 3000mm Polyether Urethane & PFAS Free DWR |
| Rainfly Fabric | 75D Polyester Taffeta | 68D Ripstop Polyester 1500mm Polyurethane And DWR |
| Setup Time | 5 Mins | 10 Mins |
| Warranty | Lifetime | Limited |
| Made In | Imported | Imported |
Ready to Buy?
Still not sure? Let us recommend the perfect tent for your adventures.
Find Your Perfect Tent →