Two sleeping pads worth lining up side by side. On the data the NeoAir XLite NXT is the stronger all-round pick, and the question is whether the Ultra 5R still fits your budget or priorities.
| Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT | Exped Ultra 5R | |
|---|---|---|
| GearScore | 87✓ | 78 |
| Warmth (R-value) | 4.5 R | 4.8 R✓ |
| Weight | 13.0 oz✓ | 20.3 oz |
| Warmth-to-weight | 1.22 R/100g✓ | 0.83 R/100g |
| Packed size | 1.95 L✓ | 4.11 L |
| Thickness | 3.0 in | 3.0 in |
| Durability | 30 /100✓ | 12 /100 |
| Price | $200 | $200 |
| Features | 1Pump sack included | 3Pump sack included, Two-way valve, Repair kit included✓ |
| Type | Inflatable | Inflatable |
| Shape | n/s | Rectangular |
Highlighted cells mark the better spec: NeoAir XLite NXT in blue, Ultra 5R in amber. A blank spec is never counted as a win. GearScore is the rating for the Overall use-case (0 to 100). Pick another above to re-score. Prices are current MSRP.
The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT and Exped Ultra 5R take different routes to the same job. The NeoAir XLite NXT is the stronger pick on most of the specs that matter, while the Ultra 5R makes its case on warmth.
The NeoAir XLite NXT is 7 oz lighter, stronger on warmth-to-weight, and more packable (1.9 L vs 4.1 L). The Ultra 5R is warmer (R 4.8 vs R 4.5). On the default GearScore the NeoAir XLite NXT leads 87 to 78.
Pick the NeoAir XLite NXT if you care most about low weight and warmth-to-weight, which makes it the better call for counting grams on long miles. Pick the Ultra 5R if warmth matter more to you, or you are focused on colder nights and shoulder-season trips.
The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT. It is 7 oz lighter than the Ultra 5R.
The Exped Ultra 5R. It is warmer (R 4.8 vs R 4.5) than the NeoAir XLite NXT.
The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT, 87 to 78 on the default algorithm. You can re-weight the factors to match your trip.
The NeoAir XLite NXT is the stronger all-round pick here. Choose the Ultra 5R if warmth is your priority.