MSR Elixir 3 Tent with Footprint Big Agnes Blacktail Hotel 3
Head-to-head comparison: specs, scores and expert verdict
MSR
MSR Elixir 3 Tent with Footprint
Best for: Durable, spacious backpacking for two.
Big Agnes
Big Agnes Blacktail Hotel 3
Best for: Backpacking and camping with extra gear.
Our Take
Worth flagging before you compare: the MSR Elixir 3 Tent with Footprint is a backpacking and the Big Agnes Blacktail Hotel 3 is a dome, so these two sit in different shelter categories.
It also adds a included footprint — a meaningful structural difference.
The Big Agnes Blacktail Hotel 3 also offers significantly more vestibule space — 28 sq ft versus 15 sq ft.
Both score 8.2 overall, though the Big Agnes Blacktail Hotel 3 wins more individual scoring categories.
The biggest gap is value for money, where the Big Agnes Blacktail Hotel 3 holds a clear advantage.
The MSR Elixir 3 Tent with Footprint also has a price edge — $199 less at $199 versus $399.
Your best pick will come down to personal priorities, so check the full specs comparison below.
🏆 Our pick: The Big Agnes Blacktail Hotel 3 scores higher overall.
Score Comparison
Pros & Cons
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
Big Agnes Blacktail Hotel 3
- Massive gear-storage vestibule
- Simple freestanding setup
- Durable recycled polyester materials
- Heavy for backpacking
- Long tent poles
Full Specs
| Spec | MSR Elixir 3 Tent with Footprint | Big Agnes Blacktail Hotel 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Tent Type | Backpacking, Dome | Dome, Motorcycle, Backpacking |
| Capacity | 2 people | 2 people |
| Seasons | 3 Season | 3 Season |
| Est. Price | $200 | $400 |
| Weight | 7 Lbs 2 Oz | 6 Lbs. 14 Oz. |
| Min Trail Weight | 6 Lbs 1 Oz | 6 Lbs. 5 Oz. |
| Floor Area | 41.0 ft² | 44.0 ft² |
| Vestibule Area | 15 Sq Ft | 28 + 9 Sq Ft |
| Peak Height | 43 | 44 |
| Doors | 2 | 2 |
| Floor Dimensions | 84 X 70 In | 90 X 70 Inches |
| Pole Material | 7000 Series Aluminum | Aluminum Pressfit |
| Floor Fabric | 70D Taffeta Nylon 3000mm Polyurethane & DWR | Polyester With 1,500mm Waterproof Polyurethane Coating |
| Rainfly Fabric | 75D Ripstop Polyester 1500mm Polyether Urethane & PFAS Free DWR | Polyester With 1,500mm Waterproof Polyurethane Coating |
| Setup Time | 20 Mins | 10 Mins |
| Warranty | Limited | Lifetime Limited Warranty |
| Made In | Imported | USA |
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