MSR FreeLite 1 Tent Big Agnes String Ridge VST 1.5 Tent
Head-to-head comparison: specs, scores and expert verdict
MSR
MSR FreeLite 1 Tent
Best for: Ultralight solo three-season backpacking adventures.
Big Agnes
Big Agnes String Ridge VST 1.5 Tent
Best for: Ultralight solo fast-and-light mountain missions.
Our Take
Both are backpacking tents, so this is a direct apples-to-apples comparison.
The Big Agnes String Ridge VST 1.5 Tent is noticeably taller inside (3'11" peak height versus 3'3"), giving you more headroom to move around.
The MSR FreeLite 1 Tent and the Big Agnes String Ridge VST 1.5 Tent are remarkably well-matched, both scoring 8.2 overall.
The biggest gap is value for money, where the MSR FreeLite 1 Tent holds a clear advantage.
The MSR FreeLite 1 Tent also has a price edge — $110 less at $439 versus $549.
Your best pick will come down to personal priorities, so check the full specs comparison below.
Score Comparison
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 String Ridge VST 1.5 Tent
- HyperBead fabric offers elite waterproofing
- Spacious 1.5-person asymmetrical interior design
- Ultralight trekking pole supported setup
- Small pole pockets fit poorly
- Sloped walls limit taller hikers
Full Specs
| Spec | MSR FreeLite 1 Tent | Big Agnes String Ridge VST 1.5 Tent |
|---|---|---|
| Tent Type | Backpacking, Ultralight | Backpacking, Ultralight, Trekking Pole, Non Freestanding |
| Capacity | 1 person | 1 person |
| Seasons | 3 Season | 4 Season |
| Est. Price | $440 | $550 |
| Weight | 1 Lb 15 Oz | 1.2 Lbs |
| Min Trail Weight | 1 Lb 10 Oz | — |
| Floor Area | 20.0 ft² | 22.0 ft² |
| Vestibule Area | 8 Sq. Ft. | 9 Sq Ft |
| Peak Height | 39 | 47 |
| Doors | 1 | 1 |
| Floor Dimensions | 87 X 33 In | 88 X 28 44 In |
| Pole Material | DAC NFL Aluminum | Trekking Poles |
| Floor Fabric | 15D Ripstop Nylon | Proprietary HyperBead Fabric Technology; Recycled 15 Denier Ripstop Nylon With 1,500 Mm Waterproof Rating |
| Rainfly Fabric | 15D Ripstop Nylon 1200mm Polyether Urethane And Silicone | Proprietary HyperBead Fabric; 20 Denier Recycled Solution Dyed Polyester With 20 Denier High Tenacity Ripstop Fabric And 4,000 Mm Waterproof Rating |
| Packed Size | 4 X 18 In | — |
| Setup Time | 5 Mins | 20 Mins |
| Warranty | Limited | Lifetime |
| Made In | Imported | Imported |
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