Here is how these two sleeping pads compare on the numbers. On the data the NeoAir XTherm NXT MAX is the stronger all-round pick, and the question is whether the Ultra 6.5R Duo still fits your budget or priorities.
| Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm NXT MAX | Exped Ultra 6.5R Duo | |
|---|---|---|
| GearScore | 79✓ | 68 |
| Warmth (R-value) | 7.3 R✓ | 6.9 R |
| Weight | 22.9 oz✓ | 31.0 oz |
| Warmth-to-weight | 1.12 R/100g✓ | 0.78 R/100g |
| Packed size | 3.72 L | 3.32 L✓ |
| Thickness | 3.0 in | 3.5 in✓ |
| Durability | 57 /100✓ | 12 /100 |
| Price | $250✓ | $320 |
| Features | 2Pump sack included, Repair kit included | 2Pump sack included, Repair kit included |
| Type | Inflatable | Inflatable |
| Shape | Rectangular | Rectangular |
Highlighted cells mark the better spec: NeoAir XTherm NXT MAX in blue, Ultra 6.5R Duo 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 XTherm NXT MAX against the Exped Ultra 6.5R Duo is a study in priorities. The NeoAir XTherm NXT MAX is the stronger pick on most of the specs that matter, while the Ultra 6.5R Duo makes its case on packability and cushion.
The NeoAir XTherm NXT MAX is warmer (R 7.3 vs R 6.9), 8 oz lighter, and stronger on warmth-to-weight. The Ultra 6.5R Duo is more packable (3.3 L vs 3.7 L) and thicker for more cushion. On the default GearScore the NeoAir XTherm NXT MAX leads 79 to 68.
Pick the NeoAir XTherm NXT MAX if you care most about warmth and low weight, which makes it the better call for colder nights and shoulder-season trips. Pick the Ultra 6.5R Duo if packability and cushion matter more to you, or you are focused on saving space in your pack.
The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm NXT MAX. It is warmer (R 7.3 vs R 6.9) than the Ultra 6.5R Duo.
The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm NXT MAX. It is 8 oz lighter than the Ultra 6.5R Duo.
The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm NXT MAX, 79 to 68 on the default algorithm. You can re-weight the factors to match your trip.
The NeoAir XTherm NXT MAX is the stronger all-round pick here. Choose the Ultra 6.5R Duo if packability is your priority.