When it comes to cargo boxes for your car, two brands stand out from the rest – Thule and Yakima. As leading manufacturers of rooftop cargo carriers and racks, they both offer high-quality products but with some key differences.
This article will compare Thule and Yakima cargo box options to help you decide which is best for your needs.
Overview Comparison
| Feature | Thule | Yakima |
| Price range | $479-$729 | $369-$679 |
| Sizes available | 11-22 cubic feet | 10-21 cubic feet |
| Weight | 42-52 lbs | 38-56 lbs |
| Material | ABS plastic | ABS plastic |
| Security features | Central locking system | Zipperless latch system |
| Attach/detach | Quick-attach mounting | Similar quick-attach |
| Aerodynamics | Excellent, sloped design | Very good |
| Noise level | Very low | Low |
| Warranty | Lifetime | Lifetime |
As you can see in the table, Thule and Yakima cargo boxes are comparable in many aspects. They both utilize durable ABS plastic shells in aerodynamic shapes. All models mount to the roof racks with easy quick-attach systems. They operate quietly at high speeds and come with lifetime warranties.
However, there are some variations when it comes to pricing, sizes offered, weight ranges, and security features. We’ll explore those differences in more detail in the sections below along with an overview of their cargo box model options.
Thule Cargo Box Options
Thule is known for its stylish, aerodynamic cargo box designs with durable construction. Models range in price from $479 to $729 with sizes spanning 11-22 cubic feet storage capacity.
The Force XT is their sporty, midsize cargo box designed to blend performance and versatility. Slanted rear angles improve aerodynamics while dual side openings allow access from either side of your vehicle. The Force XT comes in three sizes – Sport (12 cu ft), L (16 cu ft) and XL (18 cu ft).
For even more space, the Motion XT cargo boxes offer storage up to 22 cubic feet. The angled rear taper minimizes drag and noise. You’ll enjoy effortless opening and closing thanks to the PowerClick quick-mount system. Available in three capacites – XXL (22 cu ft), XL (18 cu ft) and L (16 cu ft).
All Thule cargo boxes feature an automatically-locking Central Locking System. That means the integrated lock secures all sides when you close the lid. So you never have to worry about keys or individual latches – just one key locks everything.
Yakima Cargo Box Options
Yakima positions itself as the outdoor gear carrying experts – not just for vehicles but all types of sports equipment transportation needs. Their rooftop cargo boxes focus on simple operation, all-season protection, and carrying larger gear. Prices range from $369 to $679 with capacities between 10-21 cubic feet.
The WorkShed rack extends over the front of your vehicle, allowing you to open dual lid doors from either side. No more crawling through the car to access gear! Available in Essentials 10 (10 cu ft) and Extension 12 (12 cu ft) sizes.
Even larger space comes from the SkyBox series which can hold up to 21 cubic feet. The aerodynamic, sloped design improves wind noise and fuel economy. All SkyBox models come with SuperLatch security ensuring the lid is closed on all sides. Choose from 12 cubic feet, 16 cubic feet, 18 cubic feet, 21 cubic feet and the SkyBox Carbonite (21 cu ft) with gloss finish.
All Yakima cargo boxes include SKS Lock Cores. That means the main lid can only be opened with your key or combination lock (sold separately). The zipperless SuperLatch then securely seals the rest of the box when closed.
Also Read: How Thule Hullavator And Hullavator Pro Are Different?
Direct Comparison of Features of Thule And Yakima Cargo Boxes
Now that we’ve outlined the major model options, let’s do a direct features comparison between brands. This will give you a sense of their differences if you’re having a hard time deciding between Thule and Yakima for your cargo carrier needs.
- Pricing
Thule cargo boxes come in at a slightly higher price point, typically $100+ more for comparable sizes. Part of this pricing premium comes from their sleeker, more aerodynamic designs focused on reducing drag and wind noise. For budget buyers, Yakima gives you excellent quality and performance for less.
- Security
Both brands offer secure latching systems but they operate differently. Thule boxes lock on all sides with one Central Locking System once you close the lid. Yakima uses a zipperless SuperLatch to seal the perimeter after locking the lid with your SKS Lock Core key or combination lock.
The extra step of securing your key/combo lock separately makes Yakima a little less convenient but no less secure.
- Mounting
You’ll find tool-free Quickmount systems with easy attachment and detachment on boxes from both manufacturers. Thule’s PowerClick quick-mount handles the entire process including lid opening/closing once installed while
Yakima still requires handling the additional lock core. But installation is straightforward with either brand.
- Aerodynamics
Here is where Thule cargo boxes have a slight edge over Yakima thanks to more sloped, tapered lids and rear angles. While SkyBox models are quite aerodynamic in their own right, the angled profiles of Thule Force XT and Motion XT series are slipperier. So if wind noise and drag are primary concerns, lean toward Thule.
- Gear Access
Yakima gets the nod when it comes to accessing your cargo. Many SkyBox models allow you to open dual lid doors from either side of your vehicle thanks to extended ramping over the front.
No need to crawl in from the rear or side doors to handle gear. Thule still requires access via the rear or passenger side doors in most cases.
- Expansion Options
One advantage of Yakima is the ability to extend your cargo space even further with accessories. Their Boxtop and HangOut extensions allow you to haul longer planks, ladders, camping equipment and more. Thule currently does not offer extensions for their cargo boxes. So if you want expandability, go with Yakima.
Hopefully this detailed features comparison gives you a better sense of how Thule and Yakima are similar yet differ in small ways. To make the final choice easier, let’s recap a few key deciding factors.
Deciding Factors – Thule And Yakima
- Price – If budget is a primary concern, Yakima cargo boxes give you more value spending less for the capacity. Only consider the pricier Thule options if wind noise and aerodynamics are vital or you prefer more premium quality and style.
- Convenience – For the simplest, most integrated operation with easier opening, closing and mounting, Thule boxes have the edge. The automatic Central Locking system in particular makes securing as easy as closing the lid. But Yakima still offers hassle-free access.
- Gear Access – Dual-side opening lids allow you to access Yakima cargo boxes from either side without crawling over car seats. A big perk for frequently handling gear.
- Expandability – Yakima offers modular extensions to haul longer, taller items with certain models. An advantage Thule boxes do not provide.
- Snow & Ice – Thule lid shapes tend to shed snow and ice buildup better thanks to steeper angles. So if dealing with winter weather, they have an advantage.
Also Read: Common Issues With Thule Hullavator.
FAQ – Additional Cargo Box Questions
It’s hard to name an outright “winner” between these two premium brands because they both make excellent rooftop cargo carriers. Thule tends to lead in convenience, premium feel, aerodynamics and bad weather performance. But Yakima competes well on storage capacity options, value, gear access and modularity. For most buyers, you’ll be very happy going with either brand.
The Thule Motion XT XXL takes the title for best cargo box with its cavernous 22 cubic feet capacity combined with easy mounting, effortless opening/closing and sleek aerodynamic shape. It provides max space for road trips and family getaways with great convenience. But it also costs over $700. For a more affordable option with great quality, the Yakima SkyBox Carbonite offers 21 cubic feet storage at under $600.
If wind noise is a major concern for your travels and you want the very easiest tool-free mounting/operating experience, then yes – Thule boxes justify their higher prices. Opt for more affordable options like the Yakima SkyBox if budget is tighter and you don’t mind an extra step of manually locking/unlocking the lid. But the premium quality, style and noise reduction from Thule often makes the investment worthwhile for certain buyers.
For the most part, yes – Thule cargo boxes are compatible with Yakima crossbars and racks. The mounting hardware and cap is usually interchangeable between brands. However, to ensure a perfect vehicle-specific fit, always match Thule boxes with Thule racks and Yakima boxes with Yakima racks. But you can certainly combine them without issue – just verify the mounting setup first if mixing and matching.
Wrapping Up
And those are answers to some of the most common questions around choosing and using Thule and Yakima cargo boxes! To recap, you really can’t go wrong with either brand because they both make high-quality rooftop carriers.
Define your priorities in terms of budget, convenience, capacity needs and features to pick the best cargo box for your travels and adventures. Let me know if you need any other details in deciding between these two category leaders.
