Can't decide between the TentBox Lite vs. Classic as to which rooftop tent is right for you? It's a difficult decision for sure as both have their pros & cons for your individual situation.
Which one wins between the Tent Box Lite and the Tent Box Classic depends on your particular situation and priorities.
We've broken down the features of both models for you so you don't have to.
We'll go through sleeping capacity, setup times, weather resistance with our verdicts and finally a product comparison chart to help you decide what’s best for your situation!
Both Roof Tents made it into our Top 10 Roof Tents for 2023!
What to know about Tent Box the brand?
Establishing themselves as one of the biggest brands in the UK market Tent Box have really helped popularise the trend of roof tent camping in the UK. A popular past time in Australia, the US and South Africa has made its way to the UK over the last few years.
What to expect when purchasing a Tent Box:
Quality and Durability
One of the primary reasons why you should purchase from Tent Box is their commitment to quality and durability. Each TentBox rooftop tent is crafted using quality materials that are built to withstand the harshest outdoor conditions including waterproofing and UV-resistant fabric.
Convenient Setup and Portability
Their rooftop tents can be easily installed on your vehicle's roof rack. The tents are lightweight and compact, making them highly portable and convenient for any camping trip.
Warranty and Support
When you purchase a TentBox, you can rest assured knowing that your investment is protected. Via TentBox and Outdoor Roadie a comprehensive warranty is provided; a 3 year extended warranty where you can purchase replacements at cost comes on top of the 2 year standard warranty.
Great Testimonials
"Overall the Tentbox classic feels more like a pop up bedroom. All of the bedding can be stored in the tent which is so much easier when doing multi night trips where we can just pop the tent down and go out for the day or onto the next stop. Even in the rain or wind it’s really simple and quick to get down." Gemma Armstrong
Quick Links
(Click the links below to jump ahead)
1. TentBox Lite
The TentBox Lite is the entry-level rooftop tent designed by TentBox. As a soft-shell rooftop tent it most resembles a traditional tent with its fold out mechanism.
It is also one of the lightest rooftop tents on the market weighing in at 50kg. Since it is so lightweight it should fit most vehicles and are most appropriate for people with smaller cars.
Other awesome standout features include:
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5 minute set up from packed to assembled
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Space for 3 people
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Skylight for stargazing
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Anti-fly mesh windows
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Strong water & wind resistance
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Comes with telescopic ladder & welcome kit
"One benefit to the Lite is the door to the ladder being at the end of the tent so you can move around without disturbing each other particularly at night." Gemma Armstrong
2. TentBox Classic
The TentBox Classic is Tentbox's first hard-shell rooftop tent in their collection.
It features a vertical lift mechanism with the super handy gas assisted struts which makes assembly incredibly easy.
The outer shell is made from vehicle-grade ABS. It’s super hardwearing, crack resistant, and the aerodynamic shape cuts through the air.
Other awesome standout features include:
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1 minute set up time from packed to assembled
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Space for 2 people
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Anti-fly mesh windows
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Strong water & wind resistance
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Insulated roof liner
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Comes with telescopic ladder & welcome kit
About storing bedding inside the roof tent by Gemma Armstrong
"All of the bedding can be stored in the tent which is so much easier when doing multi night trips where we can just pop the tent down and go out for the day or onto the next stop."
TentBox Classic vs TentBox Lite Rooftop Tent
Here is a breakdown of the pros and cons of the two different types and models of roof tents by TentBox. We're sure if you use the information we provide you will determine which one is best suited for your needs.
1. Comfort and how they compare
Mattress comparison
With TentBox all their models come with some of the best mattresses in the market straight out of the box and thats no different with the TentBox Classic.
TentBox Classic features a 6cm thick high-density memory foam mattress for optimum comfort.
Another great feature of the TentBox Classic is that you can you leave your bedding inside the roof tent making it easier for you to pack up quickly.
If you want some extra comfort you can add in a 3.5cm thick memory foam mattress topper whilst still leaving your bedding inside.
The TentBox Lite comes with a 6cm memory foam mattress that covers the entire floor of the tent once opened. It's cut out perfectly to fit the entirety of the roof tent floor space to cover every inch. Your back sinks into the mattress and doesn't get too hot in the summer which we like a lot.
The downside is that you cannot purchase a mattress topper from TentBox that fits the TentBox Lite like you can with their other models. You can purchase an insulation pod that would increase the comfort slightly.
Comfort Testimonial
"Both The Tentbox Lite and The Tentbox Classic have a 6cm high density foam mattress which is super comfy and make for a good nights sleep. You can purchase a topper for the Classic, doubling the thickness of the mattress but that is something to consider as a luxury not a necessity. We love the Tentbox down blanket and found both tents to be super cosy."
By Gemma Armstrong
How does the Comfort on the new Lite 2.0 compare?
One of the key features of the TentBox Lite 2.0 is its dual-layer memory foam mattress, which provides excellent support and comfort for a good night's sleep for two people.
The TentBox Lite 2.0 features a dual layer 8cm mattress with waterproof materials, which is thicker and more comfortable compared to the 6cm mattress in the previous model.
The bottom mattress is a 4cm high density foam mattress which is perfect to absorb the aluminium base. The to top it off with an additional foam mattress to improve comfort makes all the difference.
Verdict
Winner: Tentbox Lite 2.0
Comfort-wise, the Classic and Lite TentBox tents are not far from each other with either model providing a good nights sleep.
The TentBox Classic does have the bonus advantage of being able to add in the additional 3.5cm comfort topper.
Now with the dual layer mattress being 8cm designed to absorb the aluminium base the upgrades have been well received.
2. Tent Space and how they compare
The luxury of rolling around in your bed can be a major factor in deciding which rooftop tent to purchase.
Both models have different designs which create slightly different sleeping space and head room within the roof tent.
TentBox Lite - 3 person sleeper
The TentBox Lite has a great sleeping area for those who want to bring their children along or even their pet! If not it's perfect for those you like their space and like to roll around in their sleep.
With a sleeping dimension of W: 140cm by L: 240cm allows you to comfortably sleep up to three people.
The fold-out design allows you to stretch the tent to create enough space. Additionally, it comes with a peak height headroom of 112cm, making it ideal for tall people.
TentBox Classic - 2 person sleeper
The TentBox Classic has a vertical lift mechanism and lifts open to a peak height of 100cm.
"The Tentbox Lite is very spacious with good head height and could comfortably sleep 3. There’s plenty room to move around and a sky light brings the outside in giving an illusion of even more space. The classic is suitable for up to 2 adults and the boxy shape and lack of skylight can make it feel a little more enclosed but the hard shell and rigid sides make for a much quieter night and it’s easy to forget you’re in a tent.
One benefit to the Lite is the door to the ladder being at the end of the tent so you can move around without disturbing each other particularly at night. The Classic door is on the side so there can be a little bit of climbing over one another to get in and out to the ladder."
By Gemma Armstrong
How does the space compare on the TentBox Lite 2.0?
The one big change that has come from the TentBox Lite 2.0 is the smaller sleeping area of 133cm by 220cm. This is a reduction from the 140cm by 240cm offered in the original Lite 1.0. Whilst this may come as a but of a disappointment for loyal TentBox fans it makes sense to have a smaller size to specifically fit two adults.
This way the roof tent remains at 50kg with all the additional improvements and the extra space for a 3rd person may be rarely used. And with the introduction four-person TentBox Lite XL this is a more appropriate space for families.
Verdict
Winner: Tentbox lite
In terms of space it is hard to look past the TentBox Lite as its sleeping area of 140cm by 240cm surpasses the TentBox Classic with 128cm by 210cm.
For reference the standard for a UK double bed is 135 x 190cm.
The TentBox can sleep up to 3 people but 3 people would be a tight squeeze!
The TentBox Lite 2.0 comes in smaller than the original Lite 1.0 at 133cm by 220cm.
3. Setup time and how they compare
If you camp regularly then this will be a major factor.
The ease at which you can assemble and pack away your tent will make life so much easier when all you want to do is unwind for the evening especially if you've been hiking all day.
TentBox Classic opens straight up; it does not need extra space around the car to swing open like a soft shell roof tent.
It uses four powerful struts that make it quite easy and quick to set up the tent. A single person can do it; all it takes is undoing two buckle straps, and a small push does the rest so you're ready for sleep in a jiffy!
TentBox Classic Setup Testimonial
"The Tentbox Classic really does just pop up once the straps are undone and can be done with one hand. The two side doors have poles to crest porches which take minutes to do.
Packing away is a little trickier as although the whole box pops down just as easily as it went up, there is a bit of a battle with the gas struts which keep trying to open the tent back up.
It’s easy enough with two people - one each at the front and back to pull the tent closed and do up the straps, but may be more of a challenge for a solo camper."
By Gemma Armstrong
The TentBox Lite takes longer to set up, install, and even take down.
This is because you require to fold open and close the tent each time you assemble and pack away the tent. With practice you can set up the TentBox Lite in under 5 minutes.
This tent needs more space around the car than the TentBox Classic, as it has windows and doors that open outside.
Additionally, you need to allow time for setting up the rain flys for each of the windows on the TentBox Lite.
TentBox Lite Interior Space Testimonial
"By comparison the Tentbox lite takes longer to set up and even longer to pack away. The lite has a cover which needs to be removed and stored then folds out and needs pulling into position. The ladders are load bearing and can be tricky to get into the right spot.
The set up of the lite isn’t too bad but packing away is quite tricky. While the tent pulls over easily enough ready to pack away there is a lot of material and loose parts that need tucking away before the cover can fit on properly which can take time."
By Gemma Armstrong
Setting up the new Lite 2.0
The Lite 2.0 has a similar setup time to the original 1.0. Since it is slightly smaller in width it is slightly easier to unfold.
But a great new feature is that you can remove the fly cover for hot summer days to make your setup time faster.
Steps to open the TentBox Lite 2.0:
1. Unbuckle the straps on the outer cover and pull open the outer cover to reveal the roof tent.
2. Undo straps that are kept in place to keep the roof tent closed.
3. Pull the telescopic ladder towards you and use it to pull and lift the roof tent towards you slowly and in control which opens up in a fold out style.
4. Adjust the ladder to the right height so the roof tent is fully open.
5. Pull out the rain fly and attach the poles. And then you're done!
Verdict
Winner: Tentbox Classic
We believe the TentBox Classic is the easy winner here in terms of set up time. The ability to assemble your rooftop tent in under a minute can be so invaluable.
The TentBox Lite 2.0 is faster to assemble than the original 1.0 as you can remove the fly cover which will skip having to set up the outer rain flys.
The longest to assemble is the TentBox Lite 1.0 where with practice you can assemble the tent in roughly 3 or 4 minutes.
4. Storage space and how they compare
TentBox Lite storage space
The TentBox Lite has good storage pockets inside the the roof tent.
As you can see in the picture below there are convenient storage pockets below the windows, enough for storing shoes and any small items you need while relaxing in the roof tent.
The TentBox Classic also comes with handy storage pockets for items and your shoes as can been in the picture below.
However, what sets the TentBox Classic apart from the TentBox Lite is the ability to safely store pillows, mattresses, and sleeping gear when closed. So that when you set it up, everything else will be there already.
Additionally, it comes with a handy cargo net on the roof which is great for packing away small awkward items.
How does the Lite 2.0 storage space compare?
Like the original Lite 1.0 the TentBox Lite 2.0 has good storage pockets inside the the roof tent.
As you can see in the picture below there are convenient storage pockets below the windows, enough for storing shoes and any small items you need while relaxing in the roof tent.
But a great new added feature is the storage space underneath the aluminium base. These extra storage nets under the base of the roof tent to allow you to have easy access to items when you're all set up for camp.
Verdict
Winner: Tentbox Classic
Despite having a smaller sleeping capacity with the TentBox Classic, it comes with a handy cargo net on the roof which is great for packing away small awkward items. Two shoe carriers also accompany the TentBox Classic.
Additionally, the fact that you can leave your mattress & blanket inside the rooftop tent is also a major win in terms of storage as you don't need to remove and back away your blanket and pillows every time you want to pack away.
5. Weather Resistance and how they compare
TentBox Lite weather resistance
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4-season weather rated: The canvas fabric is Waterproof, yet breathable, and the additional fly hood keeps you dry in even the heaviest of storms.
The TentBox Lite has been tested in extreme winds of up to 39mph (that’s a pretty big storm!).
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Waterproofing:
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Main hood: Breathable 280gsm rip-stop canvas, with a 2000mm Hydrostatc Head Rating
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Outer hood: 600D Nylon with 4000mm Hydrostatic Head Rating. Waterproof silicone-taped seams throughout
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TentBox Lite Weather Testimonial
"The Tentbox Lite - We celebrated New Year in the Scottish Highlands around the campfire and returned to the Tentbox Lite to spend the night in -10 degrees Celsius.
With a sleeping bag each and the Textbox down quilt we were certainly warm enough; like any tent however the condensation formed and because it was so cold the inside of the tent did become icy. As the sun came up and the ice melted we had to have a towel handy to keep wiping it down and stopping it dripping on us."
By Gemma Armstrong
TentBox Classic weather resistance
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4-season weather rated: Built for the British weather; the canvas is 100% waterproof, and the ABS shell is impermeable. All seams are silicone sealed, with waterproof zips on the windows.
The TentBox Classic is rated to last in winds of up to 39mph (which is a pretty heavy storm).
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Waterproofing: Breathable 280gsm rip-stop canvas walls, with a PU 2000mm Hydrostatic Head Rating. Waterproof silicone-taped seams throughout, and waterproof zips on the end windows.
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Insulation: Aerodynamic and insulated top and bottom shell, made from vehicle-grade ABS, with a UV protective agent.
TentBox Classic Weather Testimonial
"The roof has a lining like a thin flocked cotton layer which doesn’t hold moisture in the same way. When we visited Snowdon in February in the Classic it was similar temperatures to Scotland (-10 degrees) but we only a little ice from inside on the canvas walls. The whole tent felt much drier.
The wind rating for both tents is 39mph and the most we have experienced in both has been around 22mph.
The Lite being all canvas is much like any ground tent which flaps and whips in the wind sometimes making for more of a noisy nights sleep. The hard shell and gas struts mean the classic is tighter and more streamlined and there is less noise on a windy night."
By Gemma Armstrong
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4-season weather rated: The canvas fabric is Waterproof, yet breathable, and the additional fly hood keeps you dry in even the heaviest of storms.
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Waterproofing
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Main hood: This has been improved to a 3000mm Hydrostatic Head Rating from the 2000mm HH Rating that came with the Lite 1.0
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Outer hood: This has also been improved to 5000mm Hydrostatic Head Rating from the 600D Nylon with 4000mm Hydrostatic Head Rating from the Lite 2.0
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- UV50+ Protection
- Another improvement from the Lite 1.0 is that all fabric now comes with UV50+ protection which will provide you with better resistance against sun fade on your roof tent.
Verdict
Winner: Tentbox lite 2.0
Since the new release the outer hood provides another level of water resistance with a 5000mm Hydrostatic Head Rating.
The wind resistance on both the TentBox Lite and TentBox Classic has been tested up to 39mph.
6. Price comparison
TentBox Lite soft-shell tent is best known for its price- it is cheaper than the Classic hard-shell tent.
TentBox Classic is a long-term investment. Due to the tougher and more durable construction, it is pricier than the TentBox Classic soft shell roof tent.
For reference:
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TentBox Lite - £1,250
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TentBox Classic - £2,250
- TentBox Lite 2.0 - £1,295
Verdict
Winner: Tentbox lite
If price is a major factor in your case, then the TentBox Lite is the better option as it is the entry level TentBox Model. It does not compromise much on comfort, durability, and ease of setup but gives a considerable edge on the budget.
TentBox Lite v Classic: Product Comparison Chart
Take a look at our product comparison chart for the TentBox Lite and TentBox Classic models.
Hopefully you will find this useful when deciding which is the best model for you based on the categories we discussed earlier.
Feel free to share this with a friend who needs help deciding!
What Other Factors Do You Need to Consider?
1. What other equipment do you wish to carry on your trip?
Rooftop tents do save space in the car over a traditional tent as the tent is assembled on the roof.
But since you have the tent on the roof what happens if you want to bring your mountain bike or kayak with you?
But you also don't want to sacrifice the luxury & convenience of sleeping in a rooftop tent.
Then we recommend a rooftop tent that allows you to equip yours sports equipment on top of the roof tent.
2. Will you be camping rough and tough more Frequently?
Thick canvas walls and the insulated roof provide insulation and protection from harsh weather, especially cold. TentBox Classic is also extremely resistant to water and hence mould formation.
So, if you want something for rough and tough adventures, the TentBox Classic should be a better choice. Also, this tent can be a one-time investment for those who enjoy adventures and off-road camping.
2. Will you be camping in the winter?
We're bound to run into rain and wind in the UK.. especially in the winter
If you plan on camping in the cold rainy season then consider a rooftop tent with insulation tech as well as exceptional wind and rain resistance.
Some tents come with wind noise reduction good for the howling winds at night.
3. Do you need a Roof Tent for a Car or an SUV?
Your car may not allow the dynamic or static weight of the hard shell TentBox Classic.
But if it is the SUV or a 4x4 that you are riding, you should get yourself a TentBox Classic.
Do TentBox have discount codes?
TentBox may occasionally run a sale during the major holidays such as Easter, Black Friday and the Christmas holiday period. And if you're lucky and you go to any of the outdoor camping trade shows in Birmingham or Straford-upon-avon then there may be discount codes provided in person.
At Outdoor Roadie we provide this discount code all year round. We'll get your roof tent ready for dispatch right away so you can have your lovely new TentBox delivered to you as soon as possible.
Benefits of ordering with us!
+ Fully Insured shipping - All your gifts are fully insured and protected with us
+ 30 Day Returns - A change of heart happens. Give us a call and we'll help you return it.
+ 5 Year extended warranty - Just like TentBox we offer the same extended warranty that Tent Box offers.
+ Customer Care - We care about your shopping experience and look to make it as seamless as possible but most importantly we want to be there for you whenever you have questions. So we promise to call you back within an hour if we miss your call!
How to use Our TentBox Discount Code
Using our TentBox discount code is easy. Simply follow these steps:
- Browse our TentBox products and select the roof tent that best fits your needs.
- Enter the discount code "TB40" at checkout.
- This cannot be used on TentBox accessories
- Enjoy your savings!
TentBox Lite vs. Classic: Final Verdict
After going through the TentBox Lite review and the TentBox Classic review, there are a few major deciding factors between the two:
- Sleeping capacity
- Price
- Set up time
- Comfort
- Durability and the frequency and intensity of your camping adventures
- Weight limit of your car, SUV, or 4x4
If you enjoy camping only once in a while or are a bigger fan of low-profile, lighter-note camping experiences, TentBox Lite is made for you. It gives that traditional camp experience on the car's roof for an excellent price.
If you are a frequent adventurer and camping is almost a regular thing, you need to get your hands on the TentBox Classic.
