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SlingFin Portal 1 Tent MSR FreeLite 2 Tent

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

SlingFin Portal 1 Tent

SlingFin

SlingFin Portal 1 Tent

★ 8.0 Backpacking
Sleeps 1 Seasons 3-season Weight 2.5 lbs Est. Price $550

Best for: Stormy, high-wind shoulder season trips.

MSR FreeLite 2 Tent

MSR

MSR FreeLite 2 Tent

★ 8.3 Backpacking
Sleeps 1 Seasons 3-season Weight 2 lbs 5 oz Est. Price $500

Best for: Ultralight, versatile three-season backpacking adventures.

Our Take

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

On scores, the MSR FreeLite 2 Tent edges ahead — 8.3 overall versus 8.0.

The biggest gap is ease of setup, where the MSR FreeLite 2 Tent holds a clear advantage.

The MSR FreeLite 2 Tent also has a price edge — $50 less at $499 versus $550.

For most buyers, the MSR FreeLite 2 Tent is the stronger all-round pick — but check the full specs below before deciding.

🏆 Our pick: The MSR FreeLite 2 Tent scores higher overall.

Still deciding between these two?

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Score Comparison

SlingFin Portal 1 Tent
MSR FreeLite 2 Tent
Overall Score
8.0
8.3
Space & Comfort
8.0
8.0
Quality & Durability
8.0
8.0
Weather Resistance
8.0
7.5
Value for Money
7.0
8.0
Ease of Use
7.0
9.0
Intangibles
8.0
9.0

Pros & Cons

SlingFin Portal 1 Tent

  • Bomber stability in heavy winds
  • Generous pockets and great headroom
  • Premium long-lasting fly fabric
  • Single vent limits cross ventilation
  • Extra stability features slow setup

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

Full Specs

SpecSlingFin Portal 1 TentMSR FreeLite 2 Tent
Tent Type Backpacking, Dome, Ultralight Backpacking, Dome, Ultralight
Capacity 1 person 1 person
Seasons 3 Season 3 Season
Est. Price $550 $500
Weight 2.5 Lbs 2 Lbs 5 Oz
Min Trail Weight 2 Lb 8 Oz 2 Lbs
Floor Area 19.3 ft² 29.0 ft²
Vestibule Area 9.8 Sq Ft 15 Sq Ft
Peak Height 41 39
Doors 1 2
Floor Dimensions 88 X 35 In 84 X 50 In
Pole Material Aluminum Aluminum
Floor Fabric 20D Nylon Ripstop PE 1800mm 15D Ripstop Nylon 1200mm Durashield Polyurethane & DWR
Rainfly Fabric 10 Denier Nylon 66 Ripstop With A Dual Sided Silicone Coating 15D Ripstop Nylon 1200mm Durashield Polyurethane And Silicone
Packed Size 14x4 In 18" X 4.5"
Setup Time 3 5 Mins 2 Mins
Warranty Lifetime Limited
Made In Imported Imported

Ready to Buy?

SlingFin

SlingFin Portal 1 Tent

MSR

MSR FreeLite 2 Tent

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