Big Agnes Blacktail 3 Person Tent MSR Elixir 3 Tent with Footprint
Head-to-head comparison: specs, scores and expert verdict
Big Agnes
Big Agnes Blacktail 3 Person Tent
Best for: Versatile backpacking and car camping.
MSR
MSR Elixir 3 Tent with Footprint
Best for: Durable, spacious backpacking for two.
Our Take
Both are backpacking tents, so this is a direct apples-to-apples comparison.
The MSR Elixir 3 Tent with Footprint adds a included footprint — a meaningful structural difference.
Both score 8.2 overall, though the Big Agnes Blacktail 3 Person Tent wins more individual scoring categories.
The biggest gap is space and comfort, where the Big Agnes Blacktail 3 Person Tent holds a clear advantage.
The MSR Elixir 3 Tent with Footprint also has a price edge — $99 less at $199 versus $299.
Your best pick will come down to personal priorities, so check the full specs comparison below.
🏆 Our pick: The Big Agnes Blacktail 3 Person Tent scores higher overall.
Score Comparison
Pros & Cons
Big Agnes Blacktail 3 Person Tent
- Spacious 44 square foot floor
- Dual 9 square foot vestibules
- Quality poles and 1500mm coating
- Heavy 6.8lb weight for trails
- Awkwardly long aluminum tent poles
MSR Elixir 3 Tent with Footprint
- Unique geometry maximizes interior headroom
- Includes footprint for added value
- Color-coded poles make setup easy
- Heavier than most backpacking tents
- Zippers fail without special care
Full Specs
| Spec | Big Agnes Blacktail 3 Person Tent | MSR Elixir 3 Tent with Footprint |
|---|---|---|
| Tent Type | Backpacking, Dome | Backpacking, Dome |
| Capacity | 2 people | 2 people |
| Seasons | 3 Season | 3 Season |
| Est. Price | $300 | $200 |
| Weight | 6.1 Lbs | 7 Lbs 2 Oz |
| Min Trail Weight | — | 6 Lbs 1 Oz |
| Floor Area | 44.0 ft² | 41.0 ft² |
| Vestibule Area | 9 + 9 Sq Ft | 15 Sq Ft |
| Peak Height | 44 | 43 |
| Doors | 2 | 2 |
| Floor Dimensions | 90 X 70 In | 84 X 70 In |
| Pole Material | Aluminum | 7000 Series Aluminum |
| Floor Fabric | Recycled 75D Polyester With 1500mm Waterproof Polyurethane Coating | 70D Taffeta Nylon 3000mm Polyurethane & DWR |
| Rainfly Fabric | Recycled 75D Polyester Taffeta | 75D Ripstop Polyester 1500mm Polyether Urethane & PFAS Free DWR |
| Setup Time | 5 Mins | 20 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 →