Mountain Hardwear Nimbus UL 2 Tent MSR FreeLite 1 Tent
Head-to-head comparison: specs, scores and expert verdict
Mountain Hardwear
Mountain Hardwear Nimbus UL 2 Tent
Best for: Perfect for ultralight backpacking adventures.
MSR
MSR FreeLite 1 Tent
Best for: Ultralight solo three-season backpacking adventures.
Our Take
Both are backpacking tents, so this is a direct apples-to-apples comparison.
Both score 8.2 overall, though the Mountain Hardwear Nimbus UL 2 Tent wins more individual scoring categories.
The main tradeoff: the MSR FreeLite 1 Tent leads on space and comfort despite trailing overall.
The MSR FreeLite 1 Tent also has a price edge — $20 less at $439 versus $460.
Your best pick will come down to personal priorities, so check the full specs comparison below.
🏆 Our pick: The Mountain Hardwear Nimbus UL 2 Tent scores higher overall.
Score Comparison
Pros & Cons
Mountain Hardwear Nimbus UL 2 Tent
- Ultralight design makes backpacking effortless
- DAC poles offer great strength
- G-Hook system improves gear compressibility
- Single door makes entry awkward
- Tight squeeze for two people
MSR FreeLite 1 Tent
- Ultralight weight saves your back
- Quick semi-freestanding setup saves time
- Spacious interior allows sitting upright
- Semi-freestanding design requires staking out
- Low 1200mm waterproof rating concerns
Full Specs
| Spec | Mountain Hardwear Nimbus UL 2 Tent | MSR FreeLite 1 Tent |
|---|---|---|
| Tent Type | Backpacking, Ultralight, Semi Freestanding | Backpacking, Ultralight |
| Capacity | 1 person | 1 person |
| Seasons | 3 Season | 3 Season |
| Est. Price | $460 | $440 |
| Weight | 2.3 Lbs | 1 Lb 15 Oz |
| Min Trail Weight | — | 1 Lb 10 Oz |
| Floor Area | 28.1 ft² | 20.0 ft² |
| Vestibule Area | 7.7 Sq Ft | 8 Sq. Ft. |
| Peak Height | 41 | 39 |
| Doors | 1 | 1 |
| Floor Dimensions | 86 X 52/42 In | 87 X 33 In |
| Pole Material | DAC Featherlight NFL | DAC NFL Aluminum |
| Floor Fabric | 40D Nylon Ripstop Ether Type Sil/PU (1,500mm) | 15D Ripstop Nylon |
| Rainfly Fabric | 20 Denier Ripstop Nylon With 1,200 Mm Silicone/silicone Coating | 15D Ripstop Nylon 1200mm Polyether Urethane And Silicone |
| Packed Size | — | 4 X 18 In |
| Setup Time | 5 Mins | 5 Mins |
| Warranty | Limited Lifetime Warranty | Limited |
| Made In | Imported | Imported |
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