Head-to-head · Best Roof Cargo Boxes

Thule Motion 3 XL Low vs Yakima SkyBox NX XL

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

Thule Motion 3 XL Low comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.8 vs 4.7). The gap is mostly about family road trippers wanting flagship-tier cargo box — read the strengths below before deciding.

Higher ratedRanked #1 in Best Roof Cargo Boxes

Thule Motion 3 XL Low

4.8

$900

The Motion 3 XL Low is the best-overall pick — Thule's flagship combines quality, features, and ease.

Strengths

— Best all-around quality + features + ease of use
— Low-profile design reduces wind noise
— SwingRight dual-side opening

Watch-outs

— Premium pricing
— Heavier than aluminum boxes
— Requires roof rack base

$900 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Ranked #2 in Best Roof Cargo Boxes

Yakima SkyBox NX XL

4.7

$749

The SkyBox NX XL is the value pick — Yakima's flagship at $200 less than Thule comparable.

Strengths

— Larger nose for duffel bags + small totes
— Versatile shape
— Easy install

Watch-outs

— More noise with sunroof open
— Slightly less polish than Thule
— Yakima's smaller dealer network

$749 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

How they stack up

Thule Motion 3 XL Low

Best overall. Low-profile. Lifetime warranty.

Yakima SkyBox NX XL

Best value. Bigger nose. Less polished.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Thule Motion 3 XL Low	Yakima SkyBox NX XL
Capacity	XL	XL
Profile	Low	—
Opening	SwingRight dual	—
Brand	Thule	Yakima
Shape	—	Big nose
Price	—	$749

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