2025 Forest River Forester 2861DS vs 2025 Forest River Forester MBS 2401S

Two noteworthy RVs face off: the 2025 Forest River Forester 2861DS and the 2025 Forest River Forester MBS 2401S. From dimensions to amenities, here's the full breakdown.

Specifications Comparison

Specification2025 Forest River Forester 2861DS2025 Forest River Forester MBS 2401SAdvantage
CategoryClass CClass C
Year20252025Tie
Length24 ft27.5 ft
Width7.5 ft8.5 ft
Height11 ft11 ft
Dry Weight8,900 lbs14,300 lbs
GVWR11,700 lbs18,300 lbs
Sleeping Capacity572025 Forest River Forester MBS 2401S
Fresh Water65 gal64 gal2025 Forest River Forester 2861DS
Gray Water38 gal48 gal2025 Forest River Forester MBS 2401S
Black Water26 gal39 gal2025 Forest River Forester MBS 2401S
Fuel Capacity53 gal46 gal2025 Forest River Forester 2861DS
Horsepower319 hp190 hp2025 Forest River Forester 2861DS
EngineChevrolet 6.0L V8Mercedes-Benz 3.0L V6 Turbo Diesel
Slide-Outs10
Solar350 W300 W2025 Forest River Forester 2861DS
Battery150 Ah150 AhTie
Inverter1,500 W1,500 WTie
MSRP$199,000$204,0002025 Forest River Forester 2861DS

Detailed Comparison

Two noteworthy RVs face off: the 2025 Forest River Forester 2861DS and the 2025 Forest River Forester MBS 2401S. From dimensions to amenities, here's the full breakdown.

Starting with size, the Forest River Forester 2861DS measures 24.0 ft long and tips the scales at 8,900 lbs dry weight. The Forest River Forester MBS 2401S comes in at 27.5 ft with a dry weight of 14,300 lbs. That gives the Forest River Forester MBS 2401S roughly 3.5 extra feet of length.

Capacity-wise, expect to sleep 5 in the Forest River Forester 2861DS versus 7 in the Forest River Forester MBS 2401S. With 1 and 0 slide-outs respectively, the parked floor plans differ significantly.

Tank capacities are a key off-grid consideration. The Forest River Forester 2861DS carries 65 gal of fresh water, 38 gal gray, and 26 gal black. The Forest River Forester MBS 2401S offers 64 gal fresh, 48 gal gray, and 39 gal black. The Forest River Forester 2861DS has the edge for extended dry camping.

Budget-wise, the Forest River Forester 2861DS is listed at $199,000 compared to $204,000 for the Forest River Forester MBS 2401S.

For family camping trips, the larger floor plan and additional berths make a real difference. For boondocking, the model with superior solar and battery setup will keep you comfortable off the grid longer. For occasional getaways, the more affordable and nimble option usually makes the most sense.

Ultimately, both rigs have their merits — test drive each one and see which floor plan speaks to your lifestyle.

Individual Overviews

2025 Forest River Forester 2861DS

  • Category: Class C
  • Length: 24 ft
  • Weight: 8,900 lbs
  • Sleeps: 5
  • MSRP: $199,000
View Full Specs

2025 Forest River Forester MBS 2401S

  • Category: Class C
  • Length: 27.5 ft
  • Weight: 14,300 lbs
  • Sleeps: 7
  • MSRP: $204,000
View Full Specs