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MSR FreeLite 1 Tent Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2 Tent

Head-to-head comparison: specs, scores and expert verdict

MSR FreeLite 1 Tent

MSR

MSR FreeLite 1 Tent

★ 7.5 Backpacking
Sleeps 1 Seasons 3-season Weight 1 lb 15 oz Est. Price $200

Best for: Ultralight solo three-season backpacking adventures.

Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2 Tent

Big Agnes

Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2 Tent

★ 8.1 Backpacking
Sleeps 1 Seasons 3-season Weight 3 lbs Est. Price $600

Best for: Fast, light backpacking for two.

Our Take

Both are backpacking tents, so this is a direct apples-to-apples comparison.

On scores, the Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2 Tent edges ahead — 8.1 overall versus 7.5.

The biggest gap is value for money, where the Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2 Tent holds a clear advantage.

The MSR FreeLite 1 Tent also has a price edge — $399 less at $199 versus $599.

For most buyers, the Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2 Tent is the stronger all-round pick — but check the full specs below before deciding.

🏆 Our pick: The Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2 Tent scores higher overall.

Score Comparison

MSR FreeLite 1 Tent
Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2 Tent
Overall Score
7.5
8.1
Space & Comfort
8.5
8.0
Quality & Durability
8.0
8.0
Weather Resistance
6.0
7.5
Value for Money
6.0
8.0
Ease of Use
8.0
7.0
Intangibles
7.0
9.0

Pros & Cons

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

Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2 Tent

  • Massive 3D gear storage pockets
  • HyperBead fabric offers waterproof strength
  • High-volume design provides ample headroom
  • Strains the wallet considerably
  • Thin materials require extra care

Full Specs

SpecMSR FreeLite 1 TentBig Agnes Copper Spur UL2 Tent
Tent Type Backpacking, Ultralight Backpacking, Ultralight
Capacity 1 person 1 person
Seasons 3 Season 3 Season
Est. Price $200 $600
Weight 1 Lb 15 Oz 3 Lbs
Min Trail Weight 1 Lb 10 Oz
Floor Area 20.0 ft² 29.0 ft²
Vestibule Area 8 Sq. Ft. 9 + 9 Sq Ft
Peak Height 39 40
Doors 1 2
Floor Dimensions 87 X 33 In 88 X 52 42 In
Pole Material DAC NFL Aluminum Aluminum
Floor Fabric 15D Ripstop Nylon Proprietary HyperBead Fabric; 15D Nylon With 20D Solution Dyed Ripstop And 1500mm Waterproof Rating
Rainfly Fabric 15D Ripstop Nylon 1200mm Polyether Urethane And Silicone Proprietary HyperBead Fabric; 15 Denier Nylon With 20 Denier Solution Dyed Ripstop And 1,500 Mm Waterproof Coating Without Intentionally Added PFAS
Packed Size 4 X 18 In
Setup Time 5 Mins 6 Mins
Warranty Limited Limited Lifetime
Made In Imported Imported

Ready to Buy?

MSR

MSR FreeLite 1 Tent

Big Agnes

Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2 Tent

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