6 Best Alternatives to the Thule Pulse 2 L Roof (2026)
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You might be looking for thule pulse 2 l roof alternatives if you need different specifications or a different brand. The original Thule Pulse 2 L offers 16 cubic feet of space and a 75 kg load capacity. Its dual-side opening and tool-free installation with a torque indicator are practical features. The ASA-ABS plastic shell resists weather and scratches. However, you may want a box with a larger volume, a lower weight, or a different price point.
This guide lists 6 options that share key specs with the Thule Pulse 2 L. We selected these products because they also offer dual-side access and roof mount compatibility. Some alternatives provide more cargo space, while others focus on lighter weight or narrower dimensions. You can compare the capacity, dimensions, and load limits of each model. This helps you find a box that fits your vehicle and gear needs. We focus on published specifications to help you make a practical choice.
Our top pick: Thule Pulse 2 L 16 cu ft Dual-Side Box.
How alternatives compare to Thule
GarveeTech 14 cu ft Dual-Side Opening Roof Box
The GarveeTech 14 cu ft box offers dual-side access like the Thule, but with a smaller 14 cubic foot capacity. Its dimensions are 62.2 by 31.5 by 13.4 inches, making it shorter and narrower than the Thule’s 81 by 17 by 37 inch profile. This compact shape may suit smaller vehicles better. It weighs 44.8 pounds, which is lighter than the Thule’s implied bulk. You get side access without the larger footprint. Choose this if you need dual-side opening but have a smaller roof or less cargo volume needs.
Relaxcabine 26 Cu Ft Hard Shell Roof Cargo Box
The Relaxcabine 26 Cu Ft box provides significantly more volume than the Thule’s 16 cubic feet. It measures 87.2 by 38.2 by 17.4 inches, offering a much wider and longer storage area. Its load capacity is 150 lb, compared to the Thule’s 75 kg (approx 165 lb). The shell is hard shell, similar to Thule’s ASA-ABS plastic. It also features dual-side opening. You gain massive space for large families or heavy gear. Pick this if you prioritize maximum cargo volume over the Thule’s more streamlined, vehicle-friendly dimensions.
PM Performotor 15 cu ft Dual-Side Box
The PM Performotor 15 cu ft box sits between the GarveeTech and Thule in capacity. It has 15 cubic feet of space, slightly less than the Thule’s 16. Its dimensions are 80 by 30 by 13 inches. The length is nearly identical to the Thule, but the width is much wider at 30 inches versus 17 inches. It uses a hard shell and dual-side opening. You get similar length storage but with a broader base. Select this if you want dual-side access and a length comparable to the Thule, but can accommodate a wider box on your roof rack.
Garvee 14 cu ft Dual-Side Rooftop Cargo Box
The Garvee 14 cu ft box matches the GarveeTech in size and capacity, offering 14 cubic feet of space. Its dimensions are 62.2 by 31.5 by 13.4 inches, identical to the GarveeTech model. It weighs 43 pounds, slightly lighter than the GarveeTech. It features dual-side opening and an ABS construction. You get the same compact dual-side access but with a minor weight difference. Choose this if you prefer the Garvee brand over GarveeTech. It is a solid alternative for those needing side access without the Thule’s larger 16 cubic foot capacity.
Runave 14 Cu Ft Dual-Side Hard Shell
The Runave 14 Cu Ft box offers 14 cubic feet of space, less than the Thule’s 16. It measures 62 by 32 by 13 inches. The width is 32 inches, wider than the Thule’s 17 inches. It has a load capacity of 150 lb, similar to the Thule’s 75 kg. The shell is hard shell with dual-side opening. It weighs only 30.2 pounds, making it significantly lighter than most competitors. You gain a lightweight, weather-resistant option with side access. Pick this if you need dual-side opening and want to minimize roof rack load weight.
Goplus 14 cu ft Dual-Side Opening Roof Box
The Goplus 14 cu ft box provides 14 cubic feet of space, less than the Thule’s 16. Its dimensions are 63 by 31 by 15 inches. The length is close to the Thule’s, but the width is 31 inches, much wider. It has a load capacity of 165 lb, exceeding the Thule’s 75 kg. It weighs only 25 pounds, the lightest on this list. It features hard shell construction and dual-side opening. You get high load capacity and low weight with side access. Choose this if you need to carry heavy gear on a lightweight box with side access.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Thule Pulse 2 L 16 cu ft Dual-Side Box
Best for: side access and high load capacity
- Capacity
- 16 cu ft (450 L)
- Shell Type
- ASA-ABS plastic
- Opening
- Dual-side
- Load Capacity
- 75 kg
- Water Resistance
- Weather-resistant
- Installation
- Tool-free torque indicator
This Thule roof box offers 16 cubic feet of storage with a 75 kg load capacity. Its dual-side opening lets you access gear from either side of your vehicle. The streamlined shape fits most modern cars, and the ASA-ABS plastic shell resists weather and scratches. It uses a tool-free installation system with a torque indicator to confirm secure attachment. This design supports full trunk access while keeping cargo safe.
Pros
- 16 cubic feet capacity
- 75 kg load limit
- Dual-side opening
- Tool-free installation
- ASA-ABS plastic shell
Cons
- 81-inch length may overhang smaller cars
- No mention of smart features or app control
- Fixed height at 37 inches
Good fit if
- You need side access for loading in tight spaces
- You carry skis or snowboards regularly
- You want a durable, weather-resistant shell
Skip if
- You have a compact car with a short roof
- You prefer a lower profile for better aerodynamics
- You need smart connectivity features
Verdict: Thule Pulse 2 L Dual-Side is a practical choice for families who need easy side access and high load capacity. It suits those with mid-size to large vehicles who prioritize durability and straightforward installation.
GarveeTech 14 cu ft Dual-Side Opening Roof Box
Best for: Dual-side access needs
- Capacity
- 14 cu ft
- Shell Type
- ABS hard shell
- Opening
- Dual-side
- Load Capacity
- 165 lbs
- Water Resistance
- Waterproof
- Security
- Keys and straps
View on Amazon: GarveeTech 14 cu ft Dual-Side Opening Roof Box
This GarveeTech cargo box offers 14 cubic feet of storage with a dual-side opening mechanism. It measures 62.2 x 31.5 x 13.4 inches and weighs 44.8 pounds. The ABS shell is waterproof and UV-resistant. It supports up to 165 pounds of load. You get two keys and two straps for security. It fits all vehicles with roof racks.
Pros
- Dual-side opening for access from either side
- 14 cubic feet of spacious storage
- Waterproof and UV-resistant ABS shell
- Supports 165 pounds of load
Cons
- Heavier at 44.8 pounds than some competitors
- Smaller capacity than the 16 cubic ft Thule Pulse 2 L
- Only includes a one-year warranty
Good fit if
- You need access from both sides of the vehicle
- You have a roof rack on your car or SUV
- You want a waterproof shell for road trips
Skip if
- You require more than 14 cubic feet of space
- You prefer a lighter unit under 40 pounds
- You want a longer warranty period than one year
Verdict: GarveeTech 14 Cu Ft Dual-Side Roof Box is a solid option for drivers who need side access and ample space, though it falls short of the largest 16 cubic ft models in this guide.
Relaxcabine 26 Cu Ft Hard Shell Roof Cargo Box
Best for: carrying large volumes of gear
- Capacity
- 26 Cu Ft
- Shell Type
- ABS+PC composite
- Opening
- dual-side
- Load Capacity
- 150 lbs
- Water Resistance
- protects from rain, snow, dust, UV
- Security
- central locking system
View on Amazon: Relaxcabine 26 Cu Ft Hard Shell Roof Cargo Box
This Relaxcabine carrier offers 26 cubic feet of storage with a 150 lb load capacity. It features dual-side opening and tool-free installation. The ABS+PC shell resists weather. You get extra space for large gear. The design fits most roof racks. It suits those needing high volume storage.
Pros
- 26 cubic feet capacity
- 150 lb load limit
- Dual-side opening lid
- Tool-free assembly
- ABS+PC composite shell
Cons
- 52.7 lb weight is heavy
- 17.4 inch height is bulky
- No specific wind noise data
Good fit if
- You need maximum cargo space
- You park in tight spots
- You carry heavy loads
Skip if
- You want a slim profile
- You prefer lightweight carriers
- You have low roof clearance
Verdict: Relaxcabine 26 Cu Ft Hard Shell Roof Box delivers massive volume for large families. It fits drivers who prioritize space over aerodynamic efficiency.
PM Performotor 15 cu ft Dual-Side Box
Best for: dual-side access on standard cross bars
- Capacity
- 15 cu ft
- Shell Type
- Hard shell, ABS plastic
- Opening
- Dual-side
- Load Capacity
- 110 lbs
- Water Resistance
- Weatherproof
- Security
- Key and lock
This PM Performotor hard shell box offers 15 cubic feet of storage with dual-side opening. It measures 80 by 30 by 13 inches and supports up to 110 pounds. The ABS plastic shell is weatherproof and textured black. You get a key lock for security. It mounts on factory or aftermarket cross bars. This fits SUVs, trucks, and sedans needing durable, accessible cargo space.
Pros
- 15 cubic feet of internal storage
- Dual-side opening for easy access
- 110-pound maximum load capacity
- Key and lock security system
- Tool-free installation on cross bars
Cons
- 110-pound capacity is lower than the 16-cubic-foot Thule Pulse 2 L
- 13-inch height is taller than the ENROAD Slim option
- No fingerprint unlock or smart features included
Good fit if
- You need dual-side access for loading bulky items
- You have factory or aftermarket cross bars installed
- You want a textured black hard shell for durability
Skip if
- You require a capacity larger than 15 cubic feet
- You need a slim profile under 13 inches in height
- You prefer smart locks with fingerprint or app control
Verdict: PM Performotor 15 cu ft Dual-Side Roof Box provides reliable, accessible storage for drivers who prioritize dual-side access and hard shell durability over smart features or maximum capacity.
Garvee 14 cu ft Dual-Side Rooftop Cargo Box
Best for: budget shoppers needing dual-side access
- Capacity
- 14 cu ft (390 L)
- Shell Type
- ABS hard shell
- Opening
- Dual-side
- Load Capacity
- 165 lbs
- Water Resistance
- Waterproof
- Security
- Keys and straps
The Garvee roof box offers 14 cubic feet of storage in a 62.2-inch ABS shell. It features dual-side opening for convenient access from either side of your vehicle. The unit weighs 43 pounds and supports up to 165 pounds of gear. Its waterproof design protects luggage from weather. You will need a roof rack for installation. This carrier is a practical option for families needing extra space without the premium price of major brands.
Pros
- Dual-side opening system for easy access
- 14 cubic feet (390L) of cargo space
- Waterproof ABS hard shell construction
- Includes 2 keys and mounting straps
Cons
- 14 cubic feet capacity is smaller than the 16 cubic feet Thule Pulse 2 L
- 43-pound weight is higher than some slim-profile competitors
- No mention of aerodynamic noise reduction technology in specifications
Good fit if
- You need dual-side access to your cargo
- You have a standard roof rack on your vehicle
- You want a waterproof carrier for road trips
Skip if
- You require more than 14 cubic feet of storage
- You need a lightweight carrier under 40 pounds
- You do not have a roof rack installed
Verdict: Garvee 14 cu ft Dual-Side ABS Roof Box provides reliable dual-side access and waterproof storage for everyday trips, though its smaller capacity and heavier build make it less suitable for those needing maximum volume.
Runave 14 Cu Ft Dual-Side Hard Shell
Best for: Dual-side access and weather protection
- Capacity
- 14 cu ft
- Shell Type
- ABS and PMMA
- Opening
- dual-sided
- Load Capacity
- 130 lb
- Security
- 2 keys and 2 straps
- Installation
- simple, no additional tools required
This Runave hard shell cargo box offers 14 cubic feet of storage with a 130 lb load capacity. It features dual-side opening for convenient access from either side of your vehicle. The ABS and PMMA shell is waterproof and UV-resistant. It weighs 30.2 pounds and measures 62.5 by 32.5 by 13 inches. It fits racks between 17.32 and 38.58 inches wide.
Pros
- 14 cubic feet of storage space
- Dual-side opening for easy access
- ABS and PMMA waterproof shell
- 130 lb maximum load capacity
Cons
- 130 lb load limit is lower than the 150 lb limit on other options
- 14 cubic feet capacity is smaller than the 26 cu ft option
- 13-inch height may restrict tall items
Good fit if
- You need access from both sides of your vehicle
- You want a waterproof hard shell for weather protection
Skip if
- You require a load capacity over 130 lb
- You need more than 14 cubic feet of storage
Verdict: Runave 14 Cu Ft Dual-Side Hard Shell suits drivers who prioritize side access and weather resistance over maximum volume or load weight. It fits those with standard roof racks needing reliable, compact storage.
Goplus 14 cu ft Dual-Side Opening Roof Box
Best for: Dual-side access with narrow crossbars
- Capacity
- 14 Cubic Feet
- Shell Type
- ABS and PC
- Opening
- Dual-side
- Load Capacity
- 165 lbs
- Water Resistance
- Waterproof
- Security
- double-lock design, super latch security
This Goplus cargo box offers 14 cubic feet of storage in a 63-inch hard shell. It features dual-side opening for access from either side of your vehicle. The ABS and PC construction is rated waterproof and supports up to 165 lbs. It mounts on crossbars between 17 and 22.8 inches wide. You get quick-connect anchors for installation and a double-lock security system. It weighs 25 pounds.
Pros
- Dual-side opening for convenient access
- 165 lb load capacity
- Waterproof ABS and PC shell
- Double-lock security with super latch
Cons
- 14 cubic feet capacity is smaller than the Thule Pulse 2 L
- 25-pound weight adds to roof load
- Limited to crossbars under 3.1 inches wide
Good fit if
- You need dual-side access for tight parking spots
- You have crossbars under 3.1 inches wide
- You require a 165 lb load limit
Skip if
- You need more than 14 cubic feet of space
- Your crossbars exceed 3.1 inches in width
- You prefer a larger 16 cubic foot capacity
Verdict: Goplus 14 Cu Ft Dual-Side Roof Box fits drivers who prioritize side access and specific crossbar width limits over maximum volume. It is a practical option for those with narrower bars who do not need the extra space of larger models.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Thule Pulse 2 L 16 cu ft Dual-Side Box | GarveeTech 14 cu ft Dual-Side Opening Roof Box | Relaxcabine 26 Cu Ft Hard Shell Roof Cargo Box | PM Performotor 15 cu ft Dual-Side Box | Garvee 14 cu ft Dual-Side Rooftop Cargo Box | Runave 14 Cu Ft Dual-Side Hard Shell | Goplus 14 cu ft Dual-Side Opening Roof Box |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 16 cu ft (450 L) | 14 cu ft | 26 Cu Ft | 15 cu ft | 14 cu ft (390 L) | 14 cu ft | 14 Cubic Feet |
| Shell Type | ASA-ABS plastic | ABS hard shell | ABS+PC composite | Hard shell, ABS plastic | ABS hard shell | ABS and PMMA | ABS and PC |
| Opening | Dual-side | Dual-side | dual-side | Dual-side | Dual-side | dual-sided | Dual-side |
| Load Capacity | 75 kg | 165 lbs | 150 lbs | 110 lbs | 165 lbs | 130 lb | 165 lbs |
| Water Resistance | Weather-resistant | Waterproof | protects from rain, snow, dust, UV | Weatherproof | Waterproof | not specified | Waterproof |
| Security | not specified | Keys and straps | central locking system | Key and lock | Keys and straps | 2 keys and 2 straps | double-lock design, super latch security |
| Installation | Tool-free torque indicator | not specified | tool-free | Tool-free or simple | not specified | simple, no additional tools required | 4 quick connect anchors |
| Vehicle Compatibility | Wide variety of modern vehicles | Vehicles equipped with roof rack | round, square, and aerodynamic bars | Cross bars (roof rails) | Vehicles equipped with roof rack | not specified | not specified |
| Dimensions | 81 x 17 x 37 in | 62.2 x 31.5 x 13.4 in | 87.2 x 38.2 x 17.4 in | 80 x 30 x 13 in | 62.2 x 31.5 x 13.4 in | 62.5 x 32.5 x 13 in | 63 x 31 x 15 in |
| Recommended Use | Skis, snowboards, luggage, gear | Luggage | not specified | Suitcases, camping gear, skis | Luggage | not specified | not specified |
| Vehicle Type | not specified | not specified | not specified | Car | not specified | Car | Car |
| Size | Large | 14 Cubic（Large） | 26 Cu Ft Extra Large Black | 15 Cubic Feet | 14 Cubic Feet | 14 Cubic Feet | not specified |
| Mount Type | Roof Mount | Roof Mount | Roof Mount | Roof Mount | Roof Mount | Roof Mount | Roof Mount |
| Use | Ski/Snowboard | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Lockable | not specified | not specified | Lockable | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Weight | not specified | 44.8 pounds | 52.7 pounds | not specified | 43 pounds | 30.2 pounds | 25 pounds |
| Color | Black | Black | Black | Textured Black | Black | BLACK | Black |
| Model | 610750 | nncczujx4eU50hm4c2vYzgYDb1 | Cargo Box 26 Cu Ft Black | PM-71386 | 9cfOzOlERyDlFO37079UigTQzl98C | BLACK | not specified |
You can compare compact gear dimensions alongside cargo storage in our guide covering urevo walking pad 2 in alternatives.
Frequently asked questions
Which alternative offers the largest storage capacity?
The Relaxcabine 26 Cu Ft Hard Shell Roof Box provides the maximum volume in this list. It measures 87.2 inches in length and 38.2 inches in width. This extra-large size suits drivers who need to carry bulky gear. It also supports a load capacity of 150 pounds. You should verify your vehicle’s roof limits before installing such a large box.
Do all these boxes feature dual-side access?
Yes, every product listed includes a dual-side opening mechanism. This feature allows you to load items from either side of the vehicle. You do not need to climb over the roof or reach across the entire box. This design is particularly useful for parking in tight spaces or loading from the passenger side.
What is the lightest roof box on this list?
The Goplus 14 cu ft Dual-Side Opening Roof Box is the lightest option. It weighs only 25 pounds. This makes it easier to lift onto your roof rack compared to heavier models. For comparison, the Relaxcabine box weighs 52.7 pounds. You should choose a lighter box if you install and remove the carrier frequently.
Which model has the highest load capacity?
The Goplus 14 cu ft box supports up to 165 pounds. This is the highest weight limit among the listed items. The Relaxcabine and Runave models support 150 pounds. The Thule Pulse 2 L supports 75 kg, which is approximately 165 pounds. Always ensure your crossbars can handle the specified load weight safely.
Are there any options under 15 cubic feet?
Yes, several models offer 14 cubic feet of storage. The GarveeTech, Garvee, and Runave boxes all provide this capacity. These are smaller than the 16 cubic foot Thule Pulse 2 L. They are suitable for drivers who do not need maximum volume. The PM Performotor offers 15 cubic feet, which is closer to the original Thule size.
How wide are the widest boxes in this guide?
The Relaxcabine 26 Cu Ft box is the widest at 38.2 inches. The GarveeTech and Garvee models are 31.5 inches wide. The Thule Pulse 2 L is narrower at 17 inches. You must check your vehicle’s roof width and crossbar spacing. A wider box may interfere with doors or require specific mounting hardware.