ProductViper · Head-to-head · Rooftop Cargo Boxes
Thule Force 3 L vs SkyBox NX 16
Same 16 cu ft, same dual-side opening, same lifetime warranty, one point apart. The difference is Thule's click-to-confirm mount and 165 lb rating versus an $81 lower price and Yakima's SKS key system.
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Thule Force 3 L
Which one should you buy?
Buy the Thule Force 3 L if you want the mount to tell you it is tight. PowerClick clicks at the right torque, SlideLock locks the lid automatically, and Thule publishes a 165 lb load rating.
Buy the Yakima SkyBox NX 16 if you already run Yakima bars and want the box on the same SKS key, or you want to save $81. It has a flat floor and fits bar spreads from 24 to 36 in.
Side-by-side specs
| Thule Force 3 L | SkyBox NX 16 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price (Amazon, Sept 2026) | $879.95 | $798.95 |
| ViperScore | 83 · Good Buy | 82 · Good Buy |
| Volume | 16 cu ft (450 L) | 16 cu ft |
| Exterior size | 76.8 x 33.3 x 16.8 in | 75.5 x 35 x 16 in |
| Box weight | 43 lb | 46 lb (listing); 47 lb (Yakima) |
| Load capacity | 165 lb | — |
| Ski / snowboard fit | 5-7 pairs of skis up to 175 cm, or 3-5 snowboards | Skis and snowboards up to 175 cm |
| Opening | Dual-side | Dual-side |
| Mounting | PowerClick, clicks at correct torque | Fits round, square, aero and most factory bars |
| Crossbar spread | — | 24 to 36 in |
| Lock | SlideLock, auto-locks and signals when closed | SKS lock, secures lid and box to rack |
| Stars (ratings) | 4.4 (48) | 4.4 (60) |
| Warranty | Limited lifetime | Limited lifetime |
Where each one wins
Why the Force 3 L scores higher
- Higher Reliability (84 vs 80), Quality (90 vs 88) and Features (88 vs 86).
- PowerClick confirms correct clamp torque with a click, so mounting is not guesswork.
- A published 165 lb load rating and a 3 lb lighter box (43 vs 46 lb).
Why the SkyBox NX 16 still makes sense
- $81 cheaper for the same 16 cu ft and dual-side access, with Value tied at 70.
- SKS lock matches other Yakima rack gear on one key.
- Flat, unobstructed floor and a published 24-36 in crossbar spread range.
ViperScore breakdown
| Thule Force 3 L | SkyBox NX 16 | |
|---|---|---|
| Value (25%) | 70 | 70 |
| Quality (20%) | 90 | 88 |
| Features (15%) | 88 | 86 |
| Reliability (15%) | 84 | 80 |
| Satisfaction (15%) | 84 | 84 |
| Warranty (10%) | 95 | 95 |
| ViperScore | 83 | 82 |
Higher number highlighted. Weights: Value 25%, Quality 20%, Features 15%, Reliability 15%, Satisfaction 15%, Warranty 10%. How we score →
Questions buyers ask
Do both boxes need crossbars?
Yes. Both clamp to crossbars, which are sold separately.
Is the Yakima SkyBox NX 16 really 16 cubic feet?
Yes. One listing bullet says 18 cu ft, but the model name, title and Yakima's own page say 16.
Which box carries longer skis?
Neither has an edge. Both fit skis up to 175 cm; Thule adds that the Force 3 L takes 5-7 pairs or 3-5 snowboards.
Prices are live Amazon prices from Sept 24 2026 and change often; Amazon shows the current price. ProductViper is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program.
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