MSR Elixir 1 Tent with Footprint Kelty Grand Mesa 2 Tent
Head-to-head comparison: specs, scores and expert verdict
MSR
MSR Elixir 1 Tent with Footprint
Best for: Versatile, durable shelter for backpackers.
Kelty
Kelty Grand Mesa 2 Tent
Best for: Budget-friendly backpacking and simple three-season camping.
Our Take
Worth flagging before you compare: the MSR Elixir 1 Tent with Footprint is a backpacking and the Kelty Grand Mesa 2 Tent is a dome, so these two sit in different shelter categories.
It also adds a included footprint — a meaningful structural difference.
Floor space is also wider — 30 sq ft versus 18 sq ft for the MSR Elixir 1 Tent with Footprint.
Both score 8.2 overall, though the MSR Elixir 1 Tent with Footprint wins more individual scoring categories.
The biggest gap is space and comfort, where the MSR Elixir 1 Tent with Footprint holds a clear advantage.
The Kelty Grand Mesa 2 Tent also has a price edge — $140 less at $149 versus $289.
Your best pick will come down to personal priorities, so check the full specs comparison below.
🏆 Our pick: The MSR Elixir 1 Tent with Footprint scores higher overall.
Score Comparison
Pros & Cons
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
Kelty Grand Mesa 2 Tent
- Quick-Corner easy setup
- Shark Mouth carry bag
- Lightweight aluminum poles
- Half-zip vestibule
- Flimsy stakes
Full Specs
| Spec | MSR Elixir 1 Tent with Footprint | Kelty Grand Mesa 2 Tent |
|---|---|---|
| Tent Type | Backpacking, Dome | Dome, Backpacking |
| Capacity | 1 person | 1 person |
| Seasons | 3 Season | 3 Season |
| Est. Price | $290 | $150 |
| Weight | 5 Lbs 5 Oz | 4 Lbs 12 Oz |
| Min Trail Weight | 4 Lbs 1 Oz | 4 Lbs 1 Oz |
| Floor Area | 18.0 ft² | 30.0 ft² |
| Vestibule Area | 12 Sq. Ft. | 6 Sq Ft |
| Peak Height | 39 | 43 |
| Doors | 1 | 1 |
| Floor Dimensions | 88 X 30 In | 85 X 57 In |
| Pole Material | Aluminum | Aluminum |
| Floor Fabric | 75D Taffeta Poly 3000mm Polyether Urethane & PFAS Free DWR | 68 Denier Polyester |
| Rainfly Fabric | 68D Ripstop Polyester 1500mm Polyurethane And DWR | 68 Denier Polyester |
| Setup Time | 10 Mins | 3 Mins |
| Warranty | Limited | Limited |
| Made In | Imported | Imported |
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