Side-by-side comparison based on expert reviews and community consensus.
Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2
Best Overall Backpacking TentThe North Face Stormbreak 2
Best Budget Backpacking TentPrice
$600
$220
Summary
The unanimous #1 pick across every major backpacking tent roundup. At just 3 lbs with two doors, two vestibules, and 29 sq ft of floor space, it defines what a modern ultralight tent should be.
At $220, the Stormbreak 2 is the best value in backpacking tents — durable 75D polyester, spacious interior, and intuitive setup at half the price of premium options.
Pros
- Only 3 lbs packed weight — can be stripped to ~2.5 lbs by leaving stakes and stuff sack
- Two doors and two vestibules for a true two-person setup
- Pre-bent poles and steep walls maximize headroom for its weight class
- Color-coded grommets and substantial zippers make setup intuitive
- Tested in Patagonia, Mongolia, East Africa — proven in real conditions
- Only $220 — roughly half the price of premium competitors
- 75-denier polyester taffeta canopy, rainfly, and floor for serious durability
- 30.56 sq ft floor area — more spacious than many pricier tents
- Two doors for easy entry and exit
- Intuitive setup that testers praised for ease
Cons
- $600 price tag is steep — one of the pricier options in its class
- 15-20D fabrics are thin and require careful use on rough ground
- Interior is snug for two people on longer trips
- 5.88 lbs — substantially heavier than ultralight alternatives
- Bulky packed size makes solo carrying difficult
- Not ideal for weight-conscious backpackers
Our take
If you backpack more than a few times a year, just buy the Copper Spur UL2. It's been the top pick for years across Outdoor Gear Lab, Switchback Travel, and the backpacking community — that kind of consensus doesn't happen by accident.
If the Copper Spur UL2 is out of your budget, the Stormbreak 2 is the move. It's heavier, but it's built tougher and costs half as much — a genuinely great tent that won't embarrass you in the field.
Buy
