MSR FreeLite 2 Tent Mountain Hardwear Nimbus UL 1 Tent
Head-to-head comparison: specs, scores and expert verdict
MSR
MSR FreeLite 2 Tent
Best for: Ultralight, versatile three-season backpacking adventures.
Mountain Hardwear
Mountain Hardwear Nimbus UL 1 Tent
Best for: Perfect for solo ultralight backpacking.
Our Take
Both are backpacking tents, so this is a direct apples-to-apples comparison.
The MSR FreeLite 2 Tent also offers significantly more vestibule space — 15 sq ft versus 4 sq ft.
The MSR FreeLite 2 Tent and the Mountain Hardwear Nimbus UL 1 Tent are remarkably well-matched, both scoring 8.3 overall.
The biggest gap is space and comfort, where the MSR FreeLite 2 Tent holds a clear advantage.
The MSR FreeLite 2 Tent also has a price edge — $220 less at $199 versus $420.
Your best pick will come down to personal priorities, so check the full specs comparison below.
Score Comparison
Pros & Cons
MSR FreeLite 2 Tent
- Ultralight 32-ounce weight saves energy
- Rectangular floor fits wide pads
- Fast, intuitive one-pole setup process
- Tight for two larger hikers
- Thin fabrics need extra care
Mountain Hardwear Nimbus UL 1 Tent
- Incredible lightweight sub-two-pound trail weight
- Fast three-minute intuitive pole setup
- Tear-resistant double-silicone rainfly construction
- Thin floor needs a footprint
- Opposite doors make entry cumbersome
Full Specs
| Spec | MSR FreeLite 2 Tent | Mountain Hardwear Nimbus UL 1 Tent |
|---|---|---|
| Tent Type | Backpacking, Dome, Ultralight | Backpacking, Ultralight, Semi Freestanding |
| Capacity | 1 person | 1 person |
| Seasons | 3 Season | 3 Season |
| Est. Price | $200 | $420 |
| Weight | 2 Lbs 5 Oz | 1.9 Lbs |
| Min Trail Weight | 2 Lbs | — |
| Floor Area | 29.0 ft² | 19.7 ft² |
| Vestibule Area | 15 Sq Ft | 3.9 Sq Ft |
| Peak Height | 39 | 38 |
| Doors | 2 | 1 |
| Floor Dimensions | 84 X 50 In | 86 X 38/28 In |
| Pole Material | Aluminum | DAC Featherlight NFL Aluminum |
| Floor Fabric | 15D Ripstop Nylon 1200mm Durashield Polyurethane & DWR | 40D Nylon Ripstop Ether Type Sil/PU 1500mm 100% Nylon |
| Rainfly Fabric | 15D Ripstop Nylon 1200mm Durashield Polyurethane And Silicone | 20 Denier Ripstop Nylon With 1,200 Mm Silicone/silicone Coating |
| Packed Size | 18" X 4.5" | — |
| Setup Time | 2 Mins | 3 Mins |
| Warranty | Limited | Limited Lifetime |
| Made In | Imported | Imported |
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