Outdoor Research Helium Bivy Ortovox Bivy Ultralight
Head-to-head comparison: specs, scores and expert verdict
Outdoor Research
Outdoor Research Helium Bivy
Best for: Solo adventures, bikepacking, and ultralight thru-hiking.
Ortovox
Ortovox Bivy Ultralight
Best for: Emergency use in unforeseen mountain weather.
Our Take
Both are bivy tents, so this is a direct apples-to-apples comparison.
On scores, the Outdoor Research Helium Bivy edges ahead — 7.4 overall versus 7.0.
The biggest gap is space and comfort, where the Outdoor Research Helium Bivy holds a clear advantage.
The Ortovox Bivy Ultralight also has a price edge — $190 less at $34 versus $225.
For most buyers, the Outdoor Research Helium Bivy is the stronger all-round pick — but check the full specs below before deciding.
🏆 Our pick: The Outdoor Research Helium Bivy scores higher overall.
Score Comparison
Pros & Cons
Outdoor Research Helium Bivy
- Sub-one-pound ultralight build
- Integrated no-see-um mesh
- High-volume tapered footbox
- Heavy condensation issues
- Cramped interior space
Ortovox Bivy Ultralight
- Ultralight 150 gram weight
- Heat-reflecting silver inner coating
- Tiny 5x5x9cm pack size
- No head hood
- Traps heavy condensation
Full Specs
| Spec | Outdoor Research Helium Bivy | Ortovox Bivy Ultralight |
|---|---|---|
| Tent Type | Bivy, Backpacking | Bivy, Survival, Backpacking |
| Capacity | 1 person | 1 person |
| Seasons | 3 Season | Survival |
| Est. Price | $225 | $35 |
| Weight | 15.8 Oz | 7 Oz |
| Min Trail Weight | 14.5oz | — |
| Floor Area | 14.0 ft² | — |
| Vestibule Area | None | None |
| Peak Height | 20 | — |
| Doors | 1 | 1 |
| Floor Dimensions | 82 X 26 | — |
| Pole Material | Shockcorded Delrin® Pole | None |
| Floor Fabric | 100% Nylon 40D With TPU Lamination Floor | — |
| Packed Size | 3.5 X 12.25 | 5 X 5 X 9 Cm |
| Setup Time | 2 Mins | 1 Min |
| Warranty | Infinite Guarantee (Limited Lifetime) | 2 Years |
| Made In | Imported | Imported |
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