Thule Force vs Pulse: A Comparison of Cargo Boxes

Do you love to travel, but have a small car? Or perhaps you have a larger size car, but still, need extra space to carry around all of your luggage. What you need is a cargo box that attaches to the roof of your car. Using a cargo box, you can keep your extra luggage separate from the inside of your car.

The Thule company is highly popular for these types of cargo boxes. There is no question that you get great value with their products. The question is, which of the Thule cargo boxes is for you? We have created this Thule Force vs Pulse comparison in order to help you decide between these wonderful cargo boxes.

Related: Thule Sonic vs Force Cargo Box

What Makes The Thule Force And Pulse So Great

Thule cargo boxes attach to roof racks using Thule’s own quick-grip mounting system.  As a matter of fact, you can simply place the cargo box onto the rack and hear it click. These cargo boxes are versatile and can fit onto almost any sized car. They are also aerodynamic, and will help economize fuel.

In order to keep your belongings safe, Thule employs their SecureLock technology. You can rest assured that your cargo will remain safe while you are away from your vehicle.

Both of these Thule cargo boxes come with a lifetime warranty.

Thule Force vs Pulse: What is the Difference?

Preview
Thule Force
Thule Force XT Rooftop Cargo Box, XX-Large
Thule Pulse
Thule 615 Pulse Rack, Large, Black
Title
Thule Force XT Rooftop Cargo Box, XX-Large
Thule 615 Pulse Rack, Large, Black
Price
Price not available
Price not available
Cargo Volume
11 cu ft
11 cu. ft
Weight Limit
165 lb
110 lbs
Ski/ Snowboard capacity
3-5 pair skis, 3-4 snowboards
4-9 pair skis, 2-3 snowboards
Max Ski length
175 cm
210 cm
Exterior Dimensions
74.75 x 24.75 x 16.75 in
88.5" x 25.5" x 12.5"
Weight
32 lb
30 lbs
Locking System
CentralLock
CentralLock
Mounting System
PowerClick Mount
EasyGrip Mount
Box Opening
Dual Side
Passenger Side
More Information
Thule Force
Preview
Thule Force XT Rooftop Cargo Box, XX-Large
Title
Thule Force XT Rooftop Cargo Box, XX-Large
Price
Price not available
Cargo Volume
11 cu ft
Weight Limit
165 lb
Ski/ Snowboard capacity
3-5 pair skis, 3-4 snowboards
Max Ski length
175 cm
Exterior Dimensions
74.75 x 24.75 x 16.75 in
Weight
32 lb
Locking System
CentralLock
Mounting System
PowerClick Mount
Box Opening
Dual Side
More Information
Thule Pulse
Preview
Thule 615 Pulse Rack, Large, Black
Title
Thule 615 Pulse Rack, Large, Black
Price
Price not available
Cargo Volume
11 cu. ft
Weight Limit
110 lbs
Ski/ Snowboard capacity
4-9 pair skis, 2-3 snowboards
Max Ski length
210 cm
Exterior Dimensions
88.5" x 25.5" x 12.5"
Weight
30 lbs
Locking System
CentralLock
Mounting System
EasyGrip Mount
Box Opening
Passenger Side
More Information

Right off the bat, we will say that the Thule force is the most advanced cargo box of the two. The Pulse cargo box is the most economical of the entire Thule line. In order to understand the differences, please see the feature lists below.

Thule Force features:

  • Sizes: The Thule force is available in four different sizes. It comes in Alpine-12, L-13, XL-17, XXL-22. Each of these numbers is a representation of the volume capacity in cubic feet.
  • Outer finish: The outer layer of the Force is a black diamond textured finish. This has a slightly more attractive look than the Thule Pulse’s matte finish. It simply looks like more money has been spent on this cargo box.
  • Dual side access: The contents of this cargo box can be accessed from the passenger side, as well as the driver’s side. This especially comes in handy when you have shrubbery or dishes in the way on one side of the car.
  • Aerodynamic: Thule’s Aeroskin technology is used in order to keep the MPG’s high. This will keep the wind noise at a minimum, thus making your ride smoother and quieter.
  • Longer length: The Thule Force is generally longer than the Thule Pulse. This is due to the fact that it has a higher volume capacity to hold more cargo.

Thule Pulse features:

  • Sizes: The pulse is available in three sizes. It comes in Alpine-11, L-14, XL-16 cubic feet. As you can see from the above, it does not have an XXL size like the Force does. Moreover, the Pulse is generally lower in volume capacity than the Force for each of these standard sizes.
  • Exterior colour: The color of the Pulse is a black matte finish. There is a bit less sheen to this finish then the one for the Thule Force.
  • One sided access: Unlike the Force, the Pulse only has access on one side; the passenger side.
  • Economical: The Pulse was made for those who are on a budget. While the Force has great value and is fairly inexpensive, the Pulse is the least expensive of the Thule cargo box line.

Thule Force vs Pulse: Price Comparison

Comparing the prices between the Pulse and the Force, you can see that the Force is a higher tier cargo box. If you would like to see the cheapest prices for these cargo boxes, please see the links below:

The Verdict

It is easy to see that the Thule Force offers more features than the Pulse. It generally has a higher volume capacity, dual sided access, and an awesome outer finish. In addition, it is a bit pricier than the Pulse, but we feel that it is worth the price.

However, if you are on a shoestring budget, the Thule Pulse offers awesome affordability and value. While it is a bit smaller, if you do not need the extra cargo capacity, it may be of benefit to you to have the Pulse. Having a smaller cargo box will mean that it will be less heavy. Besides, you may not need the extra space if you are less than three people.

The choice is up to you. What do you think of these cargo boxes? Please leave your comment below.

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