Thule Approach M Smittybilt Overlander 4 Person Tent
Head-to-head comparison: specs, scores and expert verdict
Thule
Thule Approach M
Best for: Stargazing and luxury year-round glamping.
Smittybilt
Smittybilt Overlander 4 Person Tent
Best for: Budget-friendly overlanding with spacious, durable quarters.
Our Take
Both are suv tents, so this is a direct apples-to-apples comparison.
The Smittybilt Overlander 4 Person Tent is noticeably taller inside (4'3" peak height versus 3'4"), giving you more headroom to move around.
Floor space is also wider — 64 sq ft versus 34 sq ft for the Thule Approach M.
On scores, the Thule Approach M edges ahead — 8.1 overall versus 7.9.
The main tradeoff: the Smittybilt Overlander 4 Person Tent leads on space and comfort despite trailing overall.
The Smittybilt Overlander 4 Person Tent also has a price edge — $1399 less at $1299 versus $2699.
For most buyers, the Thule Approach M is the stronger all-round pick — but check the full specs below before deciding.
🏆 Our pick: The Thule Approach M scores higher overall.
Score Comparison
Pros & Cons
Thule Approach M
- Massive panoramic skylights
- 3-minute quick deployment
- Lockable mounting brackets
- Square ladder rungs
- Separate travel cover
Smittybilt Overlander 4 Person Tent
- Massive King-sized mattress
- 360-degree rainfly coverage
- Integrated LED lighting strip
- Cumbersome ladder overhang
- Thin stock mattress
Full Specs
| Spec | Thule Approach M | Smittybilt Overlander 4 Person Tent |
|---|---|---|
| Tent Type | SUV, Rooftop | SUV, Rooftop |
| Capacity | 3 people | 3 people |
| Seasons | 3 Season | 4 Season |
| Est. Price | $2,700 | $1,300 |
| Weight | 147 Lbs. | 170 Lbs |
| Floor Area | 33.6 ft² | 64.4 ft² |
| Peak Height | 40 | 51 |
| Doors | 1 | 1 |
| Floor Dimensions | 94.5 X 51.2 Inches | 122"L X 76"W X 51"H |
| Pole Material | Aluminum | — |
| Rainfly Fabric | — | 420d Oxford Rainfly |
| Packed Size | 56.3 X 48.8 X 11 Inches | — |
| Setup Time | 3 Mins | 5 10 Mins |
| Warranty | Limited Lifetime | 2 Year |
| Made In | Imported | Imported |
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