Thule vs Sailnovo: Roof Cargo Boxes Compared by Specs
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When you compare a thule vs sailnovo roof cargo box, you see two very different approaches to roof storage. Both options mount to your vehicle to free up interior space. The main difference lies in construction. Thule offers a hard-shell box with dual-side access. Sailnovo provides a soft-sided roof bag. You need to decide which style fits your security and weather needs.
Key differences
| Aspect | Thule Pulse 2 L 16 cu ft Dual-Side Box | Sailnovo 21 cu ft Soft Roof Bag |
|---|---|---|
| Shell Type | Hard ASA-ABS plastic | Soft Shell |
| Capacity | 16 Cubic Ft | 21 Cubic Feet |
| Opening | Dual-side | Top access only |
| Load Capacity | 75 kg | not listed |
| Water Resistance | not listed | Waterproof |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Thule Pulse 2 L 16 cu ft Dual-Side Box if
- You need easy access from either side of your vehicle.
- You require a high load capacity of 75 kg.
- You prefer a rigid shell that resists scratches and weather.
Choose Sailnovo 21 cu ft Soft Roof Bag if
- You want maximum volume at 21 cubic feet.
- You are carrying gear that needs waterproof protection.
- You prefer a soft bag that fits over uneven roof racks.
Verdict: Choose the Thule if you prioritize security, high load limits, and convenient side access. Pick the Sailnovo if you need extra space and a waterproof soft bag that adapts to your roof shape.
Thule vs Sailnovo: Key Spec Differences
Shell Type
Thule uses a hard ASA-ABS plastic shell. This material resists sun damage, scratches, and weather. It provides a rigid structure that protects your gear from impacts. Sailnovo uses a soft shell. It is a fabric bag that conforms to your cargo. Soft shells are generally lighter and more flexible. They may be easier to store when not in use. Hard shells offer better protection against debris on the road. Soft shells might be more susceptible to punctures. You choose based on whether you prioritize protection or compact storage.
Capacity
Sailnovo offers 21 cubic feet of space. Thule provides 16 cubic feet. The Sailnovo bag holds more volume. This is useful if you have bulky items like sleeping bags or large suitcases. Thule’s 16 cubic feet is still substantial for most trips. It fits luggage, skis, and snowboards. The difference is five cubic feet. This can mean the difference between fitting all your gear or needing a second container. If maximum volume is your top priority, Sailnovo has the advantage here.
Opening
Thule features dual-side opening. You can access your gear from either the driver or passenger side. This is convenient when parked in tight spaces. You do not need to walk around the vehicle. Sailnovo does not list a specific opening mechanism in the data. Soft bags typically open from the top or one side. This might require you to climb onto the roof or reach over the vehicle. Dual-side access adds significant convenience for daily use. It saves time and effort when you need to grab something quickly.
Load Capacity
Thule supports a load capacity of 75 kg. This is a high limit for a roof box. It allows you to carry heavy gear like snowboards or large luggage sets. Sailnovo does not list a specific weight limit in the provided data. Soft bags often have lower weight limits due to their material. They rely on tie-down straps for security. Without a stated limit, you must assume a lower capacity. Thule’s 75 kg rating gives you more confidence when carrying heavy loads.
Water Resistance
Sailnovo is described as waterproof. This is a key feature for a soft bag. It keeps your gear dry in rain or snow. Thule does not explicitly state waterproofing in the data. However, hard plastic shells are generally water-resistant. They seal tightly to prevent moisture entry. The ASA-ABS plastic resists weather. Both options likely keep your gear dry. Sailnovo’s explicit waterproof claim is reassuring. Thule’s hard shell also offers good protection. This round is close, but Sailnovo’s explicit claim gives it a slight edge.
Which roof storage solution fits you
You need hard protection and easy access
The Thule Pulse 2 L features a rigid ASA-ABS plastic shell that resists sun, scratches, and weather. Its dual-side opening lets you access gear from either side of the vehicle. The tool-free installation with a torque indicator ensures secure attachment. This hard structure protects luggage, skis, and snowboards from impacts and the elements during your trips.
You want maximum soft cargo volume
The Sailnovo roof bag offers 21 cubic feet of capacity, which is larger than the Thule hard box. It uses a soft shell design secured by tie-down straps. This flexible bag fits on vehicles without crossbars or racks. The waterproof construction keeps your gear dry. It is a practical choice if you prioritize high volume over rigid protection.
You prefer secure, tool-free mounting
Thule provides a tool-free system that clicks when safely attached. The torque indicator confirms closure for peace of mind. The streamlined shape suits modern vehicles while allowing full trunk access. This secure mounting method is ideal for commuters and weekend travelers who want a durable, stable box that stays firmly in place during travel.
The products compared
Thule Pulse 2 L 16 cu ft Dual-Side Box
Best for: Dual-side access and durable weather resistance
- 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
View on Amazon: Thule Pulse 2 L 16 cu ft Dual-Side Box Affiliate link
This Thule roof box offers 16 cubic feet of storage in a streamlined 81-inch design. It features dual-side opening for easy access from either side of your vehicle. The ASA-ABS plastic shell resists sun and scratches. It supports up to 75 kg of gear and installs tool-free with a torque indicator. This large carrier suits commuters and weekend travelers needing durable, secure cargo space.
Pros
- Dual-side opening for flexible access
- 75 kg load capacity
- Tool-free installation with torque indicator
- ASA-ABS plastic shell resists weather
Cons
- 16 cubic feet capacity is smaller than the 21 cubic feet alternative
- 81-inch length may not fit all roof racks
- No mention of integrated locking mechanism
Good fit if
- You need easy access to gear from both sides of the car
- You carry skis, snowboards, or bulky luggage regularly
- You prefer a durable, weather-resistant plastic shell
Skip if
- You require more than 16 cubic feet of storage space
- Your vehicle roof rack cannot support an 81-inch length
- You need a compact box for smaller daily commutes
Verdict: Thule Pulse 2 L Dual-Side Roof Box is ideal for drivers who value side access and durable construction over maximum volume. It fits those with standard roof racks who prioritize secure, tool-free loading for sports gear.
Sailnovo 21 cu ft Soft Roof Bag
Best for: Cars without roof rails needing flexible storage
- Capacity
- 21 cubic feet
- Shell Type
- Soft Shell
- Water Resistance
- Waterproof
- Installation
- Tie-Down Strap
- Dimensions
- 9.84 x 7.09 x 13.8 in
- Vehicle Type
- Car
View on Amazon: Sailnovo 21 cu ft Soft Roof Bag Affiliate link
This Sailnovo roof bag offers 21 cubic feet of soft-shell storage. It weighs 8.16 pounds and uses tie-down straps for installation. The waterproof design protects your gear from rain. It fits on cars without fixed roof rails. You get flexible capacity in a compact package that rolls up for easy storage when not in use.
Pros
- 21 cubic feet of cargo capacity
- Waterproof soft shell construction
- Lightweight at 8.16 pounds
- Fits cars without roof rails
Cons
- Soft shell offers less aerodynamic efficiency than hard shells
- Tie-down straps require manual tensioning
- Lower volume than hard-shell competitors
Good fit if
- You drive a car without roof rails
- You need flexible storage for irregular items
- You want a lightweight, packable solution
Skip if
- You prioritize aerodynamic speed and noise reduction
- You need maximum security against theft
- You prefer rigid, hard-shell protection
Verdict: Sailnovo 21 cu ft Soft Roof Bag is a practical option for drivers without roof rails who need flexible, waterproof storage. It suits those who value lightweight, packable capacity over aerodynamic performance.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Thule Pulse 2 L 16 cu ft Dual-Side Box | Sailnovo 21 cu ft Soft Roof Bag |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 16 cu ft (450 L) | 21 cubic feet |
| Shell Type | ASA-ABS plastic | Soft Shell |
| Opening | Dual-side | not stated |
| Load Capacity | 75 kg | not stated |
| Water Resistance | Weather-resistant | Waterproof |
| Installation | Tool-free | Tie-Down Strap |
| Vehicle Compatibility | Wide variety of modern vehicles | not stated |
| Dimensions | 81 x 17 x 37 in | 9.84 x 7.09 x 13.8 in |
| Recommended Use | Skis, snowboards, luggage, gear | not stated |
| Vehicle Type | not stated | Car |
| Size | Large | 21 Cubic Feet |
| Mount Type | Roof Mount | Roof Mount |
| Use | Ski/Snowboard | not stated |
| Weight | 51 pounds | 8.16 pounds |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Model | 610750 | Sailnovo5033-FR |
Frequently asked questions
Does Thule offer side-opening roof boxes?
Yes, the Thule Pulse 2 L features dual-side opening. This design allows you to access your gear from either side of the vehicle. It is particularly useful for drivers with limited space on one side. The large size provides ample storage while maintaining this convenient access point for your sports equipment.
Can I use a soft roof bag if my car has no rails?
Yes, the Sailnovo 21 cu ft Soft Roof Bag is designed for cars without roof rails. It uses a soft shell construction that straps directly to your vehicle. This makes it a practical choice for flexible storage. You do not need existing roof racks to install this lightweight and packable option.
Which roof box is better for side access?
The Thule Pulse 2 L is better for side access. It offers dual-side opening, allowing you to load gear from the left or right. This is ideal if you park in tight spaces. The Sailnovo soft bag does not offer this specific access feature, making Thule the superior choice for convenience.
How large is the Thule Pulse 2 L?
The Thule Pulse 2 L is classified as a large size. Its dimensions are 81 inches in length, 17 inches in width, and 37 inches in height. This substantial volume accommodates significant gear. It is designed for drivers who need durable weather resistance and ample storage capacity on their roof racks.
Is the Sailnovo roof box hard or soft?
The Sailnovo option is a soft roof bag. It uses a fabric shell rather than rigid plastic. This soft construction allows for flexible storage solutions. It is lightweight, weighing only 8.16 pounds, and packs down when not in use. This contrasts with the hard ASA-ABS plastic shell found in Thule models.
Which product is lighter to carry?
The Sailnovo 21 cu ft Soft Roof Bag is lighter. It weighs 8.16 pounds. This low weight makes it easy to handle and store when not in use. The Thule Pulse 2 L is a hard-shell unit. While durable, it is heavier due to its rigid plastic construction and dual-side mechanism.
Does the Thule box fit standard roof racks?
Yes, the Thule Pulse 2 L mounts to standard roof racks. It uses a roof mount type that secures it to your vehicle. The large size fits most standard rack systems. This ensures compatibility for drivers who already have roof racks installed and need a secure, tool-free loading solution for their gear.