Yakima is the creator of cargo boxes and other equipment to attach to your vehicle. These cargo boxes can be mounted on many different types of vehicle roof racks. We love the fact that they are highly durable and aerodynamic. Yakima cargo boxes are specifically made to help minimize wind resistance while you are driving. This helps to save on fuel costs and eliminates the vibration that comes from the roof of the vehicle.
These Skybox 12 and the Rocketbox 11 are made to be slim so that you can actually fit other types of equipment and boxes onto your roof racks alongside them. Since the construction of these cargo boxes is so similar, you may be looking for a list of differentiating features so that you can decide which is best for you.
We have created this Yakima Skybox 12 vs Rocketbox 11 comparison so that you can decide which is most appropriate for your needs.
You may like to read: Yakima Holdup vs Thule T2 Hitch Mount Tray Bike Rack Review
Yakima Skybox 12 vs Rocketbox 11
Yakima Skybox 12 vs Rocketbox 11: Simmilarities
So you may be wondering what you can get out of these cargo boxes. Most of their features are the same, and the differences between them are going to be covered in the next section.
In the section, we have made a list of all of the wonderful features of these cargo boxes.
Access from either side:
Some cargo boxes only allow you to open it up from one side of the vehicle. This can be cumbersome, as you always have to move to the side at which it can be opened. There may be times when you’re parked next to a ditch or a big object and you simply cannot reach for the cargo box. This is why the Skybox 12 and the Rocketbox 11 were made to be opened up on the passenger side, as well as the driver side.
Smart locking mechanism:
In order to prevent any careless accidents, the locking mechanisms on these cargo boxes do not allow you to take out the key from the socket unless the cargo box is locked.
Sloped back design:
The backs of these cargo boxes are designed with an inverted slope. This helps to provide some space for opening up your hatch without interfering with the placement of the cargo box.
Toolless set up:
You do not need to purchase any special tools to set up these cargo boxes onto your vehicle rack. In fact, you do not need any tools at all.
Lifetime warranty:
If you run into any issues that either of these cargo boxes throughout the lifetime of their use, there is a lifetime warranty.
Yakima Skybox 12 vs Rocketbox 11: The Differences
Now is the time to compare these cargo boxes. The main difference between them is that the Skybox 12 holds more volume than the Rocketbox 11. The skybox 12 is also lengthier than the Rocketbox 11. This means that the Skybox 12 may be what you need in order to carry longish items.
Here are the specific differences between them:
- Volume capacity: As the name suggests, the Skybox 12 can carry 12 cubic feet worth of gear. The Rocketbox 11 can carry 11 cubic feet of gear.
- Surface texture: While both boxes look very similar, their surface texture is slightly different. The Skybox 12 has a dimpled carbonite texture, giving it a clean smooth look. The Rocketbox 11 has a matte black finish, which is also visually appealing. Customers tend to like the carbonite texture of the Skybox 12 because it makes the cargo box look modern.
- Dimensions: Although the with and the height of these cargo boxes are almost identical, the Skybox 12 is significantly longer than the Rocketbox 11.
- What can fit inside: The Skybox 12 is suitable for gear for three people. It can carry skis that are 215 cm. In contrast, the Rocketbox 11 is suitable for two people, and can carry skis that are up to 210 cm in length.
Now, let’s compare the specs:
Rocketbox 11:
- Weight: 38 pounds
- Dimensions: 89 x 24 x 16 inches
- Minimum/Maximum crossbar spreads: 24 – 40 inches
Skybox 12:
- Weight: 41 pounds
- Dimensions: 92 x 24 x 16 inches
- Minimum/Maximum crossbar spreads: 24 – 42 inches
Yakima Skybox 12 vs Rocketbox 11: Price Comparison
The prices for these cargo boxes are subject to change, so we cannot list the specific prices here. In order to view current prices on Amazon, see the links below for the Skybox 12 and the Rocketbox 11:
Yakima Skybox 12 vs Rocketbox 11 : The Verdict
While both of these cargo boxes hold the same quality and durability, the Skybox 12 is simply the one that is the bigger size. Inside of it, you can fit longer skis and more gear for one extra person. If you’re going on a trip and you are bringing people along, perhaps the Skybox 12 would be best for you.
But with the Rocketbox 11, you will have more room to put other attachments onto your roof rack. You may also have more room to open your hatch with this one.
Either way, these cargo boxes are top-of-the-line products that you cannot go wrong with.