Choosing the right Coleman Sundome tent can be tricky with three sizes available: 2, 4, and 6 person. This review compares all three, offering a detailed analysis to help you decide which best suits your needs. We delve into setup and takedown times, crucial factors for a smooth camping experience. Beyond speed, we explore the critical difference in peak height and interior space, highlighting how comfort and usability vary significantly across the sizes.This comparison goes beyond just sleeping capacity, examining the weight, packed size, and price of each model. We assess whether the advertised sleeping capacity matches the actual usable space, providing a realistic perspective on the pros and cons of each tent. Ultimately, this review aims to equip you with the information you need to confidently choose the perfect Coleman Sundome tent for your next adventure, whether you're a solo camper or traveling with a large group.
Pros And Cons
- 74.5 inch peak height allows standing upright.
- Roomy enough to fit six sleeping pads or two queen-sized mattresses.
- Can accommodate thick air mattresses with headroom remaining.
- 11.5 minutes setup time.
- 10 minutes takedown time.
- 16 pounds weight.
- Larger packed size.
- 5.5 minutes setup time.
- 5 minutes takedown time.
- 6.5 pounds weight.
- Smaller packed size.
- 48.5 inch peak height only allows sitting or kneeling.
- Feels tight, unable to stand upright even with thin sleeping pad.
- Smaller base area.
Read more: 5 Best Family Camping Tents for Your Next Adventure
Setup and Takedown Time
The setup process for all three Coleman Sundome tents (2, 4, and 6 person) is remarkably similar. The 6-person tent, however, includes additional features leading to a longer setup time. This includes four extra pull clips, an extra stake loop, and four extra guy lines.
Setup times varied significantly. The 6-person tent took 11.5 minutes, the 2-person tent 5.5 minutes, with the 4-person tent estimated to fall somewhere in between at around 8.5 minutes.
Takedown mirrored the setup process. The 2-person tent took 5 minutes, the 6-person tent 10 minutes, and the 4-person tent is estimated at 7.5 minutes.
Peak Height and Headroom
Peak height significantly impacts comfort. The 6-person Sundome boasts the tallest peak height at approximately 74.5 inches, allowing for comfortable standing. The 2-person model measures only 48.5 inches, limiting use to sitting or kneeling.
The 4-person Sundome, estimated at around 59 inches, falls between the two, offering limited standing room even for shorter individuals.
This height difference is a crucial factor when considering the suitability of each tent for various users and their intended activities inside.
Base Area and Sleeping Capacity
The base area of each tent directly correlates with its sleeping capacity. The 6-person model measures approximately 9 feet 8 inches by 9 feet 7 inches, easily accommodating six regular sleeping pads or two queen-sized camping mattresses.
The 2-person tent, measuring approximately 6 feet 9 inches by 4 feet 9 inches, comfortably fits two regular sleeping pads or a queen-sized bed.
The 4-person tent, at roughly 8 feet 8 inches by 6 feet 9 inches, offers space for four sleeping pads or a queen-sized bed, though slightly smaller than advertised.
Weight, Packed Size, and Features
The weight and packed size vary significantly across the three tent sizes. The 6-person model weighs around 16 pounds, while the 2-person weighs approximately 6.5 pounds. The 4-person weighs about 10 pounds.
Packed size is proportionally larger for the larger tents. The 6-person tent's packed size is about 2.5 times larger than the 2-person tent.
All three tents share similar features: two windows, one door, three vents, two pockets, a lantern loop, and an e-port. Notably, the number of storage options remains the same regardless of tent size.
Price and Overall Recommendation
The price point reflects the size and features. The 2-person tent cost under $50, the 6-person tent around $100, with the 4-person tent priced in between.
Overall, the 6-person Coleman Sundome tent is highly recommended if budget and packed size are not major concerns. The extra headroom and spacious interior make it significantly more comfortable than the smaller models.
The 2-person and 4-person tents are suitable for smaller groups or those prioritizing portability, but the limited headroom may be a drawback for many.
