Over the past several years, I’ve had the opportunity to test a variety of high-quality tents, and two names that consistently come up are RBM Outdoors and Bereg. Both brands offer the UP-5 model, a four-season, two-layer tent designed for quick setup, durability, and all-weather protection.
But many readers have reached out asking, “These tents look so similar—what’s the difference?” That question has only become more relevant as RBM Outdoors has grown in popularity across North America.
It’s worth noting that RBM Outdoors originally sold Bereg tents before transitioning to a model manufactured in China. Essentially, the RBM Outdoors UP-5 is a clone of the original Bereg UP-5. While RBM has done an admirable job creating a reliable tent that meets the needs of many campers, there are differences in design philosophy, materials, and build quality that make the authentic Bereg UP-5 a superior choice for folks seeking a long-lasting, versatile shelter.
Think of it like perfume: the RBM Outdoors UP-5 is a watered-down version of the original scent. It gets the job done and is pleasant enough, but it lacks the refinement and depth of the authentic Bereg. Over the years, I’ve noticed some significant differences in durability, engineering, and safety features between the two models, which have influenced my recommendation to serious outdoors enthusiasts.
Table of Contents
- Origin and Authenticity
- Design and Engineering: RBM Outdoors UP-5 vs Bereg UP-5
- Materials and Build Quality Comparison
- Features Breakdown: RBM Outdoors UP-5 vs Bereg UP-5
- Ease of Setup and Functionality
- Safety and Weather Performance
- Versatility and Use Cases of the RBM Outdoors UP-5 vs Bereg UP-5
- Choosing the Right Four-Season Tent for You
- Frequently Asked Questions
Origin and Authenticity
The Bereg UP-5 is the original, authentic four-season tent (note the Bereg logo above the door).
One of the first distinctions to note in the RBM Outdoors UP-5 vs Bereg UP-5 comparison is origin. The Bereg UP-5 is the original tent, designed in Kyrgyzstan by a dedicated team of engineers and designers. Every aspect of its design, from frame construction to ventilation and insulation, has been refined over years of real-world testing. This focus on continual innovation ensures that each new version of the Bereg UP-5 addresses performance issues, enhances comfort, and improves durability. In contrast, the RBM Outdoors UP-5 incorporates features inspired by various outdoor needs but lacks the extensive heritage of its Bereg counterpart. While it boasts some modern amenities, such as improved waterproofing and lightweight materials, it doesn’t fully capture the essence of a well-tested design. The russian bear up5 tent features include added gear storage and reflective elements for better visibility, but the traditional craftsmanship of the Bereg UP-5 remains unmatched.
RBM Outdoors began by selling Bereg tents in North America but eventually shifted to manufacturing their own tents in China, where things can be mass-produced for a fraction of the cost than elsewhere. While the RBM Outdoors UP-5 retains the overall design of the Bereg UP-5, it does not benefit from ongoing engineering updates. The RBM version is essentially a static clone: it performs well but lacks the iterative improvements that make Bereg tents exceptional in long-term use.
For those who value authenticity and consistent quality, this difference matters. Owning a Bereg UP-5 means having a tent that is not only tested and proven in extreme conditions but also continuously refined to meet the evolving needs of outdoor enthusiasts. RBM Outdoors tents are reliable, yet they don’t carry the same legacy of careful craftsmanship and engineering.
Design and Engineering: RBM Outdoors UP-5 vs Bereg UP-5
The Bereg UP-5’s dome-umbrella frame provides incredible stability.
Design is a critical area where the RBM Outdoors UP-5 vs Bereg UP-5 comparison highlights significant differences. The Bereg UP-5 features a dome-umbrella frame with eight-star aluminum construction and 10mm B95T1 aviation alloy rods.
This design provides exceptional stability in open areas, reduces snow and water accumulation, and allows you to move freely inside the tent. The streamlined frame and strategic placement of support arcs make it resistant to strong wind gusts, which is essential for winter camping or high-altitude use.
This was the first tent I received after RBM Outdoors started manufacturing their tents in China. Note the poorly engineered roof support that is roughly 1.5 inches too long. Despite its flaws, I was eager to test it out against some of the best ground tents for camping on the market. Unfortunately, the inadequate support compromised its stability, leading to leaks during the rain. Overall, while RBM Outdoors has potential, I hope they address these design issues in their future models.
RBM’s UP-5 uses a similar umbrella-type frame and offers quick setup, opening like an umbrella in about 20 seconds with full assembly in two minutes. It provides solid stability for most camping conditions. However, in my testing, I’ve encountered minor engineering hiccups in RBM Outdoor tents—like roof supports that were roughly 1.5 inches too long (as shown above). Aside from being annoying, these supports caused stress on the tent fabric and in fact caused the support sleeves to tear.
This is a telling example of how mass-produced clones can have inconsistencies compared to the original design. This is one of the downsides of products that are duplicated; there is a strong potential that the quality is going to be degraded in those clones.
You can see the protrusion caused by the roof support in my RBM Outdoors tent.
Another key distinction lies in the windows and ventilation. The Bereg UP-5 incorporates multifunctional five-layer windows with frost-resistant TPU and mosquito netting. RBM Outdoors also includes multi-layer windows, but they are less precisely engineered for extreme weather management and long-term durability. Bereg’s approach ensures ventilation and condensation control in all seasons, a feature that is particularly valuable in winter fishing or extended outdoor trips.
Materials and Build Quality Comparison
The Bereg UP-5 four-season tent utilizes top-of-the-line materials for long-term durability.
Material selection is another area where Bereg pulls ahead in the RBM Outdoor UP-5 vs Bereg UP-5 debate. The Bereg UP-5 uses Oxford 300 PU 4000 for the outer layer and Oxford 210 PU 2000 for the inner layer. The seams are sealed with thermal tape, and frost-resistant PVC velcro secures the awnings to the frame. The result is a tent that withstands extreme temperatures, wind, and precipitation while maintaining structural integrity over time.
RBM’s UP-5 features similar materials, including Oxford fabrics and an aviation aluminum alloy frame. These are solid choices, but my hands-on experience has shown that the build quality can be inconsistent. Minor misalignments or longer-than-intended supports in other RBM Outdoor tents I’ve tested can result in tears or uneven tension on the fabric. While still a dependable tent for casual use, it does not match the rigor and precision of Bereg’s production process.
The difference comes down to engineering oversight and quality control. As I noted earlier, Bereg’s tents are continually inspected by engineers, while RBM focuses on volume production. If you camp in extreme conditions or rely on a tent for frequent, long-term use, these differences in build quality can be noticeable and impactful.
Features Breakdown: RBM Outdoor UP-5 vs Bereg UP-5
The abundance of stake loops and guy lines means the Bereg UP-5 is ready for strong winds.
When comparing RBM Outdoor UP-5 vs Bereg UP-5, the feature sets highlight subtle but important distinctions…
The Bereg UP-5 includes a heat-resistant stove jack with a stainless steel ring, a removable heat-resistant wall, optional insulated floors, modular vestibule connectors, and multifunctional windows with multiple layers for frost and moisture protection. It also offers storage solutions like mesh shelves, zippered inner awnings, and reflective loops for stakes. These features make the Bereg UP-5 adaptable for winter camping, fishing, or even as a mobile bathhouse.
RBM Outdoors’ UP-5, meanwhile, has a wing door for hands-free entry (that’s a copy of the Bereg design), built-in stove jack, double-wall insulation, and a detachable waterproof floor. It also has five-layered windows and protective elements for fire resistance. These are strong features that make the tent suitable for general all-season camping, but the RBM UP-5 lacks some of the modularity and winter-specific options that make Bereg tents more versatile. Additionally, the RBM Outdoors UP-5 is praised for its durability and ease of setup, making it a practical choice for campers who prioritize convenience. In various reviews, including the rbm outdoors panda tent review, users have noted its spacious interior, which accommodates multiple sleepers comfortably. However, those seeking specialized winter camping features may find more suitable options in other brands.
In essence, RBM provides a functional and convenient tent for standard conditions, while Bereg adds layers of innovation that enhance performance and safety in extreme environments.
Ease of Setup and Functionality
The Bereg UP-5 is quick to set up—a distinct advantage in challenging environments.
Ease of setup is a notable advantage for both tents. The RBM Outdoors UP-5 can be opened like an umbrella in 20 seconds, with complete setup in two minutes. This simplicity is one reason the tent is popular with casual campers who value speed and convenience.
Bereg UP-5 is also exceptionally quick to set up, with a dome-umbrella frame that can be fully assembled in approximately one minute. The eight-star aluminum frame provides both stability and ample interior space, allowing you to stand fully and move comfortably inside. The design also helps prevent water accumulation and distributes weight evenly in snow or wind.
While both tents are user-friendly, Bereg’s setup benefits from decades of design refinement. Minor details, such as the velcro attachments and frame arcs, reduce the risk of mishaps during setup and ensure consistent performance in challenging conditions. In my experience, this engineering precision makes a tangible difference during long or harsh winter outings.
Safety and Weather Performance
The Bereg UP-5 offers enhanced safety features that ensure I can have a fire without damaging the tent.
Weather performance is another area where the RBM Outdoor UP-5 vs Bereg UP-5 comparison highlights the strengths of the original. As I mentioned earlier, the Bereg UP-5 includes a heat-resistant wall and chimney opening for safe stove use, sealed seams to prevent water leakage, and an optional insulated floor that limits frost exposure. This makes it a reliable option in extreme winter conditions, where warmth retention and safety are critical.
RBM Outdoors’ UP-5 also features a protective metal stove shield, zippered floor, and double-wall insulation. It performs well under cold conditions and provides necessary safety measures for standard camping scenarios. However, it lacks some of the additional engineering refinements that give Bereg an edge in extreme environments.
The Bereg tent’s attention to detail in fire safety, condensation control, and structural stability ensures that you can rely on it year-round without worrying about unexpected issues. RBM is solid, but, again, the Bereg UP-5 reflects decades of design evolution specifically focused on performance in harsh outdoor conditions.
Versatility and Use Cases
With options like an insulated floor and an arctic cape, the Bereg UP-5 is a true four-season tent.
When it comes to versatility, the Bereg UP-5 shines. It can be used for hunting, fishing, winter camping, mobile bathhouses, or summer recreational activities. Optional accessories like insulated floors and arctic capes allow for customization to specific needs. Multifunctional windows and modular components plus a mini vestibule (which comes standard with the Bereg UP-5, UP-2, and UP-7) further enhance usability in extreme weather.
The RBM Outdoors UP-5 is also versatile, with all-season suitability, stove compatibility, and a functional floor system. Its design meets the needs of general camping, fishing, and short-term winter use. However, it does not provide the same modularity or accessory options as Bereg, making it less adaptable for highly specialized or long-term outdoor adventures.
The takeaway is that both tents serve their intended purposes well, but Bereg offers a level of customization and adaptability that makes it the preferred choice for serious outdoor enthusiasts.
Choosing the Right Four-Season Tent for You
For me, the Bereg UP-5 is the ultimate four-season tent.
Ultimately, the choice between the RBM Outdoor UP-5 vs Bereg UP-5 comes down to priorities. If you are seeking a dependable, easy-to-use tent for occasional all-season camping, the RBM UP-5 offers a functional and convenient solution.
If your outdoor pursuits demand consistent performance, safety in extreme weather, and a tent that has been refined over decades, the Bereg UP-5 is unmatched. It combines durability, engineering precision, and versatile features to create a tent that can withstand harsh conditions while remaining comfortable and easy to use.
In my experience, people who invest in a Bereg UP-5 gain peace of mind, knowing that every element of the tent—from frame to fabric—has been designed with long-term performance in mind. The RBM tent is a solid option, but Bereg provides a higher standard of authenticity and quality. You can check out this tent in more detail by visiting the Bereg website. Note that the prices listed are in Canadian dollars.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences between RBM Outdoor UP-5 and Bereg UP-5?
The main differences lie in origin, build quality, engineering, and modular features. Bereg is made in Kyrgyzstan with continuous design updates and rigorous quality control, while RBM is manufactured in China as a clone with functional but less refined engineering.
Can both tents be used in extreme winter conditions?
Both tents can handle cold weather, but Bereg UP-5 is specifically engineered for extreme conditions, including arctic camping and winter fishing, with optional insulated floors, heat-resistant walls, and chimney openings for stoves. RBM is adequate for winter use but less refined for extreme frost or prolonged exposure.
How long does it take to set up each tent?
RBM Outdoor UP-5 opens like an umbrella in 20 seconds, with full setup in about 2 minutes. Bereg UP-5 can be fully assembled in roughly 1 minute thanks to its dome-umbrella frame and optimized design.
Are accessories available for both tents?
Bereg UP-5 offers optional insulated floors, arctic capes, and modular components. RBM UP-5 has fewer accessory options and does not accommodate universal vestibules.
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