Verdict
Head-to-head · Best Roof Cargo Boxes

Yakima SkyBox 16 Carbonite 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

Yakima SkyBox NX XL comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.6 vs 4.7). The gap is mostly about value buyers wanting flagship features at less premium — read the strengths below before deciding.

Yakima SkyBox 16 Carbonite
Ranked #5 in Best Roof Cargo Boxes
Yakima SkyBox 16 Carbonite
$599

The SkyBox Carbonite is the budget Yakima pick — older Yakima cargo box at $599.

Strengths
  • Textured Carbonite finish hides scratches
  • Mid-tier Yakima at value price
  • 16 cu ft capacity
Watch-outs
  • Older Carbonite vs newer NX line
  • Lower capacity than XL
  • Texture marks differently than smooth finish
Yakima SkyBox NX XL
Higher ratedRanked #2 in Best Roof Cargo Boxes
Yakima SkyBox NX XL
$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

How they stack up

Yakima SkyBox 16 Carbonite

Budget Yakima. Carbonite texture. Lower capacity.

Yakima SkyBox NX XL

Best value. Bigger nose. Less polished.

Specs side-by-side

SpecYakima SkyBox 16 CarboniteYakima SkyBox NX XL
Capacity16 cu ftXL
FinishCarbonite texture
BrandYakimaYakima
TierBudget
ShapeBig nose
Price$749
← See the full ranking of best roof cargo boxes