best yacht outboard motor

Yachting Monthly

• Digital edition

Electric outboard motor: we test 13 options

• Theo Stocker
• July 25, 2023

An electric outboard motor is now a viable option for dinghy propulsion. Emrhys Barrell puts the latest outboards and trolling motors to the test

The electric outboard motor has been around for many years, but they have either been too low powered or their lead acid batteries have made them too heavy to lift in and out of a small tender, so petrol outboards have remained the engine of choice.

The development of lightweight lithium batteries has changed all this, making an electric outboard motor a practical alternative to petrol – and making all electric yachts a real possibility too.

With this in mind, we tested 12 models whose all-up weight, or the weight of their individual components, did not exceed the 14-17kg of a 2.5hp petrol outboard.

See how we tested the electric outboards at the end of this article.

Best electric outboard motor

Specifications Outboard weight:   12kg Overall weight with outboard and bracket: 14.5kg Battery capacity: 1085Wh Top speed: 5kts Thrust: 30kg / 66lbs

Designed along the lines of a dinghy rudder, this Remigo outboard is incredibly easy and intuitive to use. No external cables or anything to be snagged, it clips onto a bracket pre-mounted to your tender or dinghy, in a similar way that you’d attach a  dinghy rudder.

Flip down the handle, attach the magnetic kill cord and you’re good to go.

On test this outboard gave as much thrust as the ePropulsion below but out performed it in terms of maneuverability. The Remigo can be switched from forward to reverse thrust at the touch of a button.

We like the Remigo for it’s sleek simplicity. If you want a clean smart easy to carry outboard to take you from your mooring to shore or quietly meander from your anchorage to shore then this is definitely worth considering.

We especially liked the rudder effect of this outboard giving us steerage even we had turn the power completely off to coast in alongside our pontoon.

Read Fox Morgan’s review of this outboard – Remigo One Electric Outboard review

Reasons to buy

very easy to stow, innovative rudder design, lightweight, built in battery, easy to mount and dismount

Reasons to avoid

No multiple battery swap options like more conventional electric outboards

Find a dealer at Silent Yachting

Photo: Paul Wyeth

ePropolsion Spirit 1.0 EVO

Yachting Monthly’s best buy

Specifications Motor weight:   10.5kg Battery weight: 9kg Battery capacity: 1276Wh Top speed RIB: 4.5mph Top speed skiff: 6.0mph Thrust: 31kg/68lbs

The Chinese firm ePropulsion has been developing its electric outboard motor range and lithium batteries for some time. We tested the Spirit 1.0 Plus and Evo, both 1kW motors with integral batteries.

Clearly ePropulsion was influenced by Torqeedo, but there are some important differences. From the outset ePropulsion went for a direct drive motor, being quieter and avoiding gearbox problems.

The battery has a greater capacity than the original Torqeedo, and is still 30% higher than the latest version. It also floats – useful if you should drop it overboard.

Fitting the battery is a two-handed job, with the carrying handle being at the back, and latch lock at the front, which requires leaning over the transom to install it. You also cannot see the locating slots underneath, which isn’t quite so easy in a bobbing inflatable. The power cable socket is protected by a rubber cap.

You have a display, but it only shows power being consumed, voltage, and remaining runtime, which means it has larger figures, easier to read on a sunny day, but it lacks GPS speed or range.

It has the same trim settings as the Torqeedo, with a similar fiddly retaining split ring. It also has a magnetic kill cord. Three shaft lengths are available, catering for transom heights up to 61cm. The shaft is streamlined but rotates through 360º for maximum manoeuvrability and reverse.

High battery capacity Quiet 360º rotation

Limited display options

Buy it now from epropulsion

Yachting Monthly’s best in class

Specifications Motor weight:   10.5kg Battery weight: 9kg Battery capacity: 1276Wh Top speed RIB: 4.5mph Top speed skiff: 6.0mph Thrust: 68lbs Regeneration: 4 knots – 40W / 10 knots – 300W

The 1.0 EVO has the same dimensions and performance as the Spirit, but it has the options of a removable tiller, plus remote controls and steering, but the real innovation is that it offers regenerative charging while you are sailing, putting 40W at 4 knots, and 300W at 10 knots back into the battery.

You can even have a wristband remote for steering and throttle.

The ePropulsion Spirit 1.0 EVO is undeniably more expensive than it’s little sister without the regenerative charging and the cost difference is significant. If you are likely to be doing a lot of sailing and using your electric motor from ship-to-shore in relatively remote locations then the regeneration will probably be worth it. For most, though the price differential is probably a little too steep.

Regenerative charging Removable tille Remote controls

Relatively expensive

Torqeedo 1103 and Torqeedo 603

Torqeedo 603 specifications Motor weight:  11kg Battery weight:  4.2kg (floats) Battery capacity: 500Wh Top speed RIB: 4.0 mph Top speed skiff: Not tested Thrust: 44lbs

Torqeedo 1103 specifications Motor weight:  11kg Battery weight:  6kg Battery capacity: 915Wh Top speed RIB: 4.4mph Top speed skiff: 6.0mph Thrust: 68lbs

Torqeedo was the first company to commercially produce an outboard with an integral lithium battery in 2005. The earliest motors used a high-revving geared motor, which produced a characteristic whine. Following the launch of its new larger battery, Torqeedo changed to direct drive at about the same time that ePropulsion arrived on the scene.

The 1103 is 1.1kW and has a removable battery and tiller/throttle. The battery locates in slots in the powerhead and can be dropped in one-handed, with the slots clearly visible from above, which is helpful in a rocking dinghy. It then hinges back and locks in place with a separate plastic pin. The tiller locates in similar slots.

The two are then connected to the motor by a power cable and a data cable, but the latter has an 8mm plug, with five tiny pins that have to be carefully lined up, then secured with a threaded plastic collar. Neither of the sockets have caps to prevent debris or water getting into them when the cables are not connected.

The display on the tiller shows four lines of data at the same time, which makes them small to read (a phone app can be used for a large display). They include volts, battery capacity, range at a given speed, speed in kts, mph or km/h, and power consumption in watts. A magnetic kill-cord cuts the power circuits if you fall overboard.

The motor has four trim positions to allow for angled transoms, but the split ring securing the locking pin is very stiff and fiddly, especially when you have to adjust it hanging over the transom. A side-mounted lever allows the motor to be tilted horizontally. In normal use a catch prevents the motor kicking up in reverse, but this can be released with another side-mounted lever if you are in shallow water.

Long and short shaft versions are available, with the height of the transom to the top of the prop on the long shaft being 62cm. Clamps screws and fittings are stainless steel, making it suitable for salt water use, but an anode is an extra. It has forward and reverse but not 360º rotation.

Established brand with relatively long history Removable battery and tiller Lots of display options

Display hard to read

Buy the Torqeedo 603 now from Torqeedo Buy the Torqeedo 1103 now from Torqeedo

Best Trolling motors

Haswing Ultima 3

Specifications Motor weight: 11kg Battery weight: 5kg Battery capacity: 600Wh Top speed: RIB 4.0mph Top speed skiff: Not tested Thrust: 51lbs

Haswing is a new name to us, but this Chinese manufacturer now has an extensive range of motors, several of which we were able to bring along to our test.

The Ultima 3 has an integral Lithium battery and an output of 1,000W, with the ‘3’ in its name indicating the 3hp petrol outboard its makers claim it is equivalent to. The battery is 600Wh.

The battery was the easiest of all in our test to fit and remove, just sliding down a set of grooves, with contacts in the bottom removing the need for any linking cables or wires, and an easy one-handed operation.

The unit is well engineered, with stainless steel used throughout plus an anode as standard, making this suitable for use in salt water, and a spare anode and shear pin. The tiller/throttle hinges up and down for easy operation and storage. It has a streamlined aluminium leg, but rotates 360º.

A magnetic kill cord is a useful safety feature, and there are 5 LEDs showing battery capacity remaining, but this is the only instrumentation, so there is no way of gauging how much power you are using. It also meant that with no exposed power cables, we could not measure intermediate power settings.

Easy to fit battery Anode as standard for salt water usage High end materials

Limited instrumentation

Buy it now from Amazon

Motorguide Varimax 40

Specifications Motor weight:  9.1kg Battery (Sterling 60Ah) – 8kg Battery capacity: 780Wh Top speed RIB: 3.2mph Top speed skiff: 4.0mph Thrust: 28lbs

Another trolling motor, this has a claimed 40lb thrust and a variable speed electronic control. The throttle pulls forward for ahead, and pushes back for reverse then twists in the same direction for speed. A clever feature once you get used to it. Ten LEDs show the battery state.

The sliding shaft gives transom heights up to 65cm transom to prop, and 360º rotation. It also quickly tilts through 90º, with 5 positions, for shallow or weedy water.

Clamp screws and fittings are mild steel, meaning you should wash it off with freshwater after using it in the sea.

Clever throttle control Variable transom heights accomodated

Quite basic in functionality

Haswing Osapian 55

Yachting Monthly’s best budget buy

Specifications Motor weight:  9kg Battery weight:  (Sterling 60Ah) 8kg Battery capacity: 780Wh Top speed RIB: 3.3mph Top speed skiff: 4.4mph Thrust: 35lbs

This is another trolling motor with a claimed 55lb thrust, but with five forward speeds and three reverse on a twist-grip throttle. Again, it is a well-engineered motor, with all fittings and clamp screws made of stainless steel, an anode behind the prop and a spare in the box.

Five LEDs show the battery state. The sliding shaft gives transom heights up to 62cm, and 10 tilt positions.

As with all click-speed throttles you have double the power at Setting 5 compared to Setting 4, and very poor range figures at intermediate speeds compared to motors with electronic throttles.

However it is an excellent value-for- money option for sailors looking for ways to power their tender for short trip

Well engineered Value for money

Poor range at medium speeds

Motorguide SW82

Specifications Motor weight: 13kg Battery weight: 16kg Battery capacity: 1,560Wh Top speed RIB: 4.0mph Top speed skiff: 5.5mph

Motorguide is a well-established US company that is part of the Mercury/Mariner group. The most powerful of the transom mount range, the 82 has a claimed thrust of 82lbs, and is a 24V unit requiring two 12V batteries in series.

It is also designed for saltwater use, with stainless steel clamp screws and fittings, and a large anode on the shaft. It has an extra long shaft, giving up to 93cm transom height to the prop, 360º rotation, and seven tilt positions There are no battery LEDs. An on/off switch under the control head is the nearest it gets to a kill switch.

Well known company Powerful Anode for salt water

No battery LEDs

Haswing Protruar 1

Specifications Motor weight: 9kg Battery weight: 8kg Battery capacity: 780Wh Top speed RIB: 3.4mph Top speed skiff: 4.5mph Thrust: 40lbs

Another Haswing requiring a separate 12V battery, this has a variable speed electronic throttle, and similar features to the Protruar 5, except no kill cord. It claims to be equivalent to a 1hp petrol motor, but in practice delivered 600W.

The sliding shaft only allows transom heights up to 40cm, but a longer shaft version is available. It has 10 tilt positions and 360º rotation.

Another well engineered unit, with stainless steel used throughout plus an anode as standard, and a spare anode and shear pin. The tiller/throttle hinges up and down for easy operation and storage.

Anode for salt water use 360º rotation

No kill chord Limited transom height range

Haswing Protruar 5

Specifications Motor weight: 14kg Battery weight: 16kg Battery capacity: 1,560Wh Top speed RIB: Not tested Top speed skiff: 6.1mph Thrust: 108lbs

Another Haswing, the Protruar 5 is the most powerful model we tested. The unit is extremely well engineered, with stainless steel used throughout for the clamp screws and fittings, plus an anode as standard, making this suitable for use in salt water. A nice touch is the spare anode and shear pin in the kit. The tiller/throttle hinges up and down for easy operation and storage.

Its 5 designation indicates its makers think it is equivalent to a 5hp petrol motor, but in reality it delivers around 2.5kW at 24V so requires two separate batteries. It has a variable electronic throttle, three battery state LEDS and a magnetic kill cord.

The shaft slides up and down, giving a maximum transom height of 62cm and 360º rotation. Ten tilt positions are quickly engaged by a squeeze lever.

The thrust was the highest of the test, making it suitable for heavy boats, but the fine pitch prop significantly reduced its efficiency at speed.

Powerful model Anode for salt water use Battery LEDs and kill chord

Needs two batteries for full power

Motorguide R3 45

Specifications Motor weight:   9.5kg Battery weight: (Sterling 60Ah) 8kg Battery capacity: 780Wh Top speed RIB: not tested Top speed skiff: 4.1mph

This trolling motor has a claimed thrust of 45lbs and five forward speeds. The sliding shaft gives transom heights up to 65cm and 360º rotation, with seven tilt positions. Clamp screws and fittings are mild steel, so should be washed after saltwater use.

The click-speed throttle gives non-linear power gaps, with Speed Setting 5 being double the power of Setting 4. This throttle arrangement results in poor range figures at medium speeds compared to motors with electronic throttles, but it keeps the price down.

360º rotation Plenty of transom height range

Minn Kota Endura Max 55

Specifications Motor weight: 9.5kg Battery weight: (Sterling 60Ah) 8kg Battery capacity: 780Wh Top speed skiff: 4.6mph

Minn Kota is one of the oldest makers of trolling motors. The Max 55 has a claimed 55lb thrust, with a variable speed electronic twist-grip throttle.

Clamp screws and fittings are mild steel, making it best suited for freshwater, though you can use it in the sea if you wash it off afterwards.

It has a fine pitch prop like all trolling motors, which gives a good static thrust, but efficiency, and hence range, falls off at higher speeds, though the electronic Maximiser throttle helps to offset this.

Electronic maximiser throttle helps offset range issues

Big range drop off at high speeds Needs washing after salt water usage

Buy it now from MinnKota

How we tested the electric outboard motors

We took a selection of electric outboard motor units available on the market, and tested them in two situations, firstly on a Frib 275 folding RIB on the Lymington River to reproduce the situation of getting out to your boat in the tender. We then put them on a 4m skiff on the Thames, to see how they perform at higher speeds on a boat with a smoother underwater form and longer waterline on sheltered waters.

Speed: We measured speed using a handheld GPS, and electricity consumed using a clamp ammeter or the motor’s inbuilt power display. We converted these to the range you would achieve, either for a given power, or the full power of the motor’s battery.

Thrust: We measured static thrust using a spring balance. This is a somewhat crude test, as it measures the pulling power of a motor in a static boat, and therefore doesn’t allow the propeller pitch to work at its designed speed.

Function: We checked the stated weights of each of the motors and made a qualitative survey of their main features when used as a dinghy outboard.

We tested the trolling motors with a 60Ah lithium battery from Sterling Power, which cost £360, though you can use a heavier lead acid battery costing around £120 for a good quality AGM or gel. Don’t bother with leisure batteries, which will fail after 4 to 5 trips. You will need a good quality Lithium charger, which will add on £100 or more.

We haven’t included charging in this test, as this is dependent on the charger you are using, whether you are charging from 240V or 12V on board, and whether the power source is mains, a generator, alternator or solar. It’s worth noting that you will rarely be recharging from flat, and will rather be aiming to top up batteries after each use.

Trolling motor or electric outboard motor?

The options today are trolling motors with separate batteries – so called because they were mainly used as auxiliary slow-speed power for anglers, and integral-battery motors built for dinghy propulsion. These are the options a sailor will be looking at when thinking about changing to an electric outboard.

Trolling motors are still popular for low-speed applications, as they are simple and cheap, but they do need a separate 12V battery.

The integral battery motors are sophisticated units designed to give you more speed and greater range for a given power in a small boat, though for any 3-4m boat, the hull speed will limit how fast you can realistically go with any motor unless you start planing.

An electric outboard motor with an integral battery will often include displays showing speed, range at a given speed, and percentage of battery capacity remaining, but these features come with a higher price tag.

The trolling motors and integral battery models in our test were similar in weight and both come in at around the same total weight as a 2.5hp petrol engine.

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Best Outboard Motors For Your Boat This 2024

Choosing the right outboard motor for your boat in 2024 is a pivotal decision that can profoundly influence your overall boating experience. Outboard motors serve as the heartbeat of your vessel, supplying the essential power and propulsion necessary to navigate the waters seamlessly. In this guide, we'll explore crucial factors to consider when selecting outboard motors, spotlight the top choices for 2024, with a special focus on Epropulsion motors , and provide essential maintenance tips to ensure your motor's longevity and peak performance.

When it comes to selecting the ideal outboard motor, several factors deserve your attention. Firstly, the reliability and performance of the motor are paramount. A dependable motor ensures that you won't face unexpected breakdowns, while superior performance enhances your boating pleasure, even in challenging conditions.

We'll provide practical tips to help you evaluate the performance of different outboard motors, ensuring you make an informed choice. Secondly, in an era where environmental concerns and fuel efficiency are critical, we'll discuss advancements in eco-friendly outboard motor technologies, allowing you to align your boating experience with sustainable practices.

Lastly, the size and type of your boat play a significant role in determining the right outboard motor. We'll offer tailored recommendations based on your boat's category, ensuring a harmonious match between your vessel and its propulsion system. With this knowledge, you can confidently select the outboard motor that will elevate your 2024 boating adventures.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Outboard Motors

Reliability and Performance

When it comes to outboard motors, reliability and performance are paramount. A reliable motor ensures you won't be left stranded on the water due to unexpected breakdowns. High performance, on the other hand, guarantees that your boat operates smoothly, even in challenging conditions.

Assessing performance involves considering factors such as horsepower, torque, and the motor's ability to handle varying loads. To make an informed choice, consult user reviews, expert opinions, and test the motor if possible. When evaluating reliability, research the manufacturer's reputation and warranty terms.

Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Impact

In 2024, fuel efficiency and environmental impact are growing concerns for boat owners. Opting for a fuel-efficient outboard motor not only saves you money on fuel but also reduces your carbon footprint, making boating more sustainable.

Many outboard motor manufacturers are now incorporating eco-friendly technologies, such as direct fuel injection and electronic fuel management, to minimize emissions. Be sure to inquire about these features when considering your options.

Boat Size and Type Compatibility

The size and type of your boat play a crucial role in determining the appropriate outboard motor. An underpowered motor may struggle to propel a larger vessel, while an overpowered one can lead to instability and decreased fuel efficiency.

For small fishing boats, lightweight motors with lower horsepower may suffice, whereas larger vessels like pontoon boats or offshore cruisers require more powerful engines. Consult your boat's manufacturer or a marine expert to ensure compatibility.

Top Outboard Motor Brands

When it comes to outboard motors, a handful of manufacturers dominate the market, and they are the go-to choices for boaters seeking reliability and performance. Here, we introduce you to the top outboard motor brands, each renowned for its unique strengths and contributions to the world of boating.

Epropulsion

In the realm of electric outboard motors, Epropulsion Outboard Motors has emerged as a prominent player. Epropulsion's innovative electric motors, such as the Navy 6.0 and Spirit 1.0, have garnered attention for their eco-friendly design and impressive performance. With a focus on sustainability and user-friendliness, Epropulsion is making waves in the boating industry.

Boaters seeking a greener alternative without compromising on power can explore Epropulsion's offerings for a glimpse into the future of outboard motor technology.

View Available Epropulsion Electric Boards Here  

Mercury Marine

Mercury Marine, founded in 1939, stands as one of the giants in the industry, consistently delivering innovation and power. Headquartered in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, this company boasts a global presence with manufacturing facilities around the world. Mercury Marine is a proud member of the Brunswick Corporation, a name synonymous with marine excellence.

What sets Mercury apart is its impressive lineup, including the two most powerful outboard engines currently available. With a legacy spanning decades, Mercury has earned a reputation for crafting reliable and high-performing outboard motors that cater to a wide range of boating needs.

Suzuki Marine

Suzuki Marine may be the smallest in terms of volume among the top manufacturers, but it has been steadily gaining market share over the years. What distinguishes Suzuki is its unwavering commitment to reliability across its entire product range, from the smallest engines to the largest.

The company's dedication to excellence has not gone unnoticed, as it has secured nine National Marine Manufacturers Association Innovation Awards. This recognition underscores Suzuki's innovative spirit and its continuous quest to improve and enhance the boating experience for enthusiasts worldwide.

View Available Suzuki Marine Outboard Motors Here  

Yamaha Outboards

Since entering the scene in 1960, Yamaha Outboards has left an indelible mark on the industry, particularly with its renowned V-6 4.2-liter platform. Yamaha has consistently been associated with reliability, making it a trusted choice for boaters who prioritize dependable performance.

Yamaha's commitment to innovation extends beyond engines. The company has pioneered the development of complete power and control systems, going beyond the scope of traditional engines. Their Helm Master joystick system, for example, exemplifies Yamaha's dedication to providing boaters with a comprehensive, integrated solution for power and maneuverability.

These top outboard motor brands—Mercury Marine, Suzuki Marine, Yamaha Outboards, and Epropulsion—represent the pinnacle of outboard motor excellence, catering to a diverse range of boating preferences and needs.

When choosing the perfect outboard motor for your 2024 boating adventures, considering models from these esteemed brands is a wise and informed decision. Their reputation for excellence, reliability, and innovation ensures that you'll be equipping your vessel with a motor that can stand up to the demands of your aquatic explorations.

Top Epropulsion Outboard Motors for 2024

Epropulsion navy 6.0.

Epropulsion's Navy 6.0 outboard motor is making waves in 2024 due to its innovative design and impressive performance. This electric outboard motor offers several advantages:

• Zero Emissions : The Navy 6.0 is eco-friendly, emitting no harmful exhaust gases, making it ideal for those concerned about the environment.
• Quiet Operation : Experience peaceful boating with minimal noise, thanks to the electric motor's quiet operation.
• Long Battery Life : The Navy 6.0 boasts a long-lasting battery, ensuring extended hours on the water before recharging.
• Ease of Use : Its user-friendly interface and compatibility with various boat types make it a versatile choice.

Whether you have a small fishing boat or a leisure cruiser, the Epropulsion Navy 6.0 could be the perfect choice for your 2024 boating adventures.

Epropulsion Spirit 1.0 Plus

Another noteworthy Epropulsion outboard motor for 2024 is the Epropulsion Spirit 1.0 Plus . This electric motor is gaining popularity among boaters due to its exceptional features:

• Compact Design : The Spirit 1.0 is lightweight and compact, making it easy to install and maneuver.
• Quiet Operation : Like the Navy 6.0, it offers quiet and peaceful boating without the noise of traditional motors.
• Efficiency : This motor provides impressive efficiency, allowing you to cover more distance with less power consumption.
• Sustainability : With zero emissions, the Spirit 1.0 contributes to a cleaner, greener boating experience.

Its versatility and compatibility with various boat sizes make the Spirit 1.0 a top choice for 2024.

Maintenance and Care for Gas Outboards

Regular maintenance practices.

To ensure your outboard motor's longevity and performance, regular maintenance is crucial. Here are some essential maintenance tips:

• Routine Inspections : Regularly inspect the motor for signs of wear, loose connections, or corrosion.
• Oil Changes : Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for oil changes to keep the engine running smoothly.
• Propeller Check : Examine the propeller for damage and ensure it's properly secured.
• Fuel System Care : Keep the fuel system clean and free from contaminants by using quality fuel and additives.
• Battery Maintenance : If using an electric motor, maintain the battery as per the manufacturer's instructions.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with proper maintenance, outboard motors can encounter problems. Here are some common issues and their solutions:

• Starting Problems : Check the fuel supply, battery, and ignition system for issues. Clean or replace components as needed.
• Poor Performance : Verify the propeller is in good condition and not obstructed. Inspect the fuel system and spark plugs.
• Overheating : Ensure the cooling system is functioning correctly and not clogged. Check for blockages in water intake.

Choosing the best outboard motor for your boat in 2024 is essential for a safe, enjoyable, and efficient boating experience. Factors such as reliability, performance, fuel efficiency, and environmental impact should guide your decision-making process. In this article, we highlighted two outstanding Epropulsion models, the Navy 6.0 and Spirit 1.0 , known for their eco-friendliness and top-notch performance.

Furthermore, don't overlook the importance of regular maintenance and troubleshooting to keep your outboard motor in peak condition throughout the year. By considering these factors and models, you can make an informed choice that will enhance your boating adventures in 2024 and beyond.

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Best Outboard Motors in 2024

It’s no secret that outboard motors are evolving at the pace of the Nile crocodile , not only dating back to the early Pleistocene but also minimal updates for the 2019 model year. However, lately, there’s been immense action from nearly all major manufacturers, ranging from Suzuki, Mercury, and Evinrude, to Yamaha.

With a multitude of customers taking reliability for granted and warranties at times stretching up to 6 years depending on promotions, the new engines are pushing progress on two fronts: efficiency and horsepower . With outboards powering an increasing number of large boats, new options are cropping up for buyers on the quest for 350 horsepower and above.

Moreover, with the fuel economy and range constantly being an issue, it’s no surprise that new designs are aiming to hit their torque and horsepower numbers while squeezing every ounce of fuel as far as it’ll go.

When it comes to low-horsepower outboards, in particular, electric power is not only becoming the go-to option but also viable. Therefore, if you don’t need to push a 30-footer or cover 40mph, small electric models will get the job done. They are portable, self-contained, and quiet, rolled into one.

Keeping that in mind, we’ll explore the best outboard motor options that will give you a reason to repower your boat with something new, quiet, and clean. Read on!

Mercury Racing 450R

After Mercury launched its new V8 4.6-liter Verado, it was only a matter of time before they stepped up the horsepower by a few notches. They did so with the 450R that ushers in a 2.4-liter double-screw supercharger coupled with a Sport Master Gearcase that is readily available.

You’ll be impressed by how light the Mercury Racing 450R is, weighing 702lbs. Furthermore, it comes in a shaft that is 20 inches long and has remarkably top-speed connotations for bass boats.

Backed by a 3-year warranty, you can rest easy knowing that the Mercury Racing 450R is not unduly stressed, regardless of its amazing power rating. Additionally, the high horsepower rating is courtesy of the 89-octane gas pump.

Therefore, this saves you the hassle of trailing your bowrider over to the nearest drag strip to fill up on 100-octane racing gas. For outboards, the total horsepower is restricted by what you can physically fit at the back of your boat. For instance, if your boat has a quad that ranks in the 350s, repowering it with the Mercury Racing 450R is closely similar to adding an entire engine.

 Mercury Racing  →

G2 Evinrude 150 E-TEC

Although there’s no denying that 4-cylinder and 4-strokes have become the industry standard in the power category, Evinrude takes an entirely different route with the G2 150 E-TEC.

With a 3-cylinder, 1.9-liter directly-injected 2-stroke, the G2 Evinrude 150 E-TEC forgoes the V6 G1’s architecture for improved efficiency. As a result, you can delight in a 12mpg at a faster-trolling speed on a boat that is 20-feet long.

The best outboard motor with a horsepower of 150 can be deployed on a broad range of boats. The G2 is regulated by an external hydraulic, tiller, mechanical steering cable, and integrated power steering.

According to Evinrude, the onboard oil tank below the cowling should get the job done with utmost efficiency for up to 60 hours, which is the duration of a regular boating session. Moreover, the maintenance interval for G2 150 E-TEC is about 500 hours or five years.

 Evinrude  →

Torqueedo Travel 1103 CS

While this brand churns out large outboards with the equivalent of 80 horsepower, it’s no secret that a Deep Blue motor solely targets the affluent folks for their yacht tenders and deep-pocketed people in the import industry that may require a silent Zodiac.

Although one of these motors with an 80 horsepower coupled with their BMW-developed battery packs will set you back over tens of thousands of dollars, the Torqueedo Travel 1103 CS will help you cut down on costs. Starting at about $2700, it’s the best outboard motor that weighs under 3300lbs and cab find a home on any boat.

Powered by a 915WH lithium battery, this unit can comfortably operate for up to 6 hours at half-throttle, which indicates a range of 18 miles, depending on your boat. Aside from sailboats and dingies, the 1103 CS makes an amazing kicker or trolling motor on a compact powerboat.

After all, it weighs below 40lbs and makes 33dB of noise. Additionally, you’ll be impressed to discover that you can prolong your range with solar power charging while underway.

 Torqeedo  →

Yamaha Offshore XTO

In recent years, center consoles have stretched past 50 feet with battle-wagon express boats progressing from diesel-powered to outboards. Therefore, it’s no surprise that Yamaha constructed an engine geared for boats that are more than 50 feet long.

An example is the Offshore XTO, with a whopping horsepower of 425. As a V8 with a capacity of 5.6 liters, this unit is truly a beast with its integrated power steering and can weigh up to 999lbs.

Nonetheless, this doesn’t deter builders from hanging up to 5 of them on the stern, as displayed on a Scout at the latest Miami show.

Yamaha’s performance report states that the quad Offshore XTOs will stretch a 41-feet Regulator center consoles to 63.7mph. Additionally, you have free rein to run a 200 horsepower twin on one 25-foot XTO Sportsman at up to 55mph and 2.83mpg on a cruise of 29mph.

 Yamaha  →

Suzuki DF350A

Although Suzuki is solely known as a mainstream value brand, models such as the DF350A prove their intent on competing in the top range horsepower (hp) game.

As a large 4.4-liter V6 that is aspirated naturally, the Suzuki DF350A utilizes double counter-rotating propellers to elevate hookup while negating the impact of torque. The latter point is more applicable to one-engine boats, where this outboard motor is an economical option in terms of fiscally and efficiency.

For instance, on a Sea Pro 239, this outboard motor pushed it to 54.2mph and achieved 3.35mpg at cruise speeds that fall in the 20s bracket.

 Suzuki  →

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Outboard Motor

Selecting the ideal outboard motor for your boat revolves around determining the intended purpose behind your purchase. Therefore, we’ve rounded up a few considerations to keep in mind when taking your pick from the wealth of options.

Two-Stroke or Four-Stroke

For casual anglers or anyone learning how to fish , a two-stroke motor will get the job done. Not only is it more affordable but also easier and cheaper to repair. Contrarily, the four-stroke counterparts deliver impressive fuel efficiency and are an ideal alternative for boaters that need a powerful motor capable of covering longer distances.

It’s worth noting that the better-skilled manufacturing coupled with the availability of better quality materials have successfully eradicated the old size along with noise variations between four-stroke and two-stroke engines.

Horsepower (HP)

Engines ranging from 50hp to 300hp can excellently power the best outboard motor. The key to choosing the most ideal option for you is factoring in the type of horsepower that perfectly fulfills your desires. An incredible way to do so is by computing your boat’s expected total weight, which includes accessories, gear, passengers, and fuel. It’s only after doing this that you’ll gain clarity on your desired cruise speed and the distance you plan to cover on a regular day. You can then determine the ideal horsepower range for you.

The size of your boat is an essential aspect to consider when choosing an outboard motor. Putting a motor that’s too small on a big boat can cause the engine to wear out prematurely or usher in issues with safety and your boat’s plane. Contrarily, putting a large motor on a small boat can cause overheating issues and burnt spark plugs.

Shaft Length

Given that small boats feature small transoms, you’ll need a short shaft length. Although some small boats come with bigger transoms, they require outboard motors with long shafts. Nonetheless, most small boats won’t call for this.

To determine the ideal shaft length for your boat, measure the height of your boat’s back-end from bottom to top and right at the center of the stern. Your shaft length should tally with this measurement. If you’re one or two inches off, there’s nothing to worry about.

However, if you’re five or more inches off, then there’s a problem, so match your transom height as closely as possible to the motor shaft.

Choosing the best outboard motor goes beyond the power and torque. One of the most crucial factors when selecting between a six and a four-cylinder motor is your boat’s weight. A lighter boat is more compatible with a 4-cylinder counterpart.

Therefore, with a bay or center console boat of fewer than 22ft, a 4-cylinder would be a great fit. Additionally, a lightweight console with double engines is compatible with a four-cylinder motor.

On the other hand, if your boat is bigger, consider a motor with a wider arc for the torque curve. As a result, the engines don’t become overtaxed when your boat is at planing speeds.

Regardless of the aquatic adventures, you embark on using your boat, the best outboard motor such as the ones discussed will usher in more efficient, smoother, and quieter rides.

Furthermore, by considering the ideal size, shaft length, type of engine, and other aspects, you’ll be satisfied for years down the road.

About Chris

Outdoors, I’m in my element, especially in the water. I know the importance of being geared up for anything. I do the deep digital dive, researching gear, boats and knowhow and love keeping my readership at the helm of their passions.

Categories : Boats

Jesse A. Rieber on March 26, 2022

I’m still stuck in decision land. I have a 2007 Guardian (Whaler) 19′. It has a 150 Johnson Fitch. While I will do some fishing, mostly I’m going from one location to another. It will be used in saltwater Nantucket Sound. I am lookoing for direction in terms of repower.

mark hawkins on February 6, 2023

Thank you Chris …..great information. I have a 1994 Whaler Outrage 17, and looking for the best fit.

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How to Choose an Outboard Motor

• By Steve Griffin
• Updated: February 11, 2020

6 Burning Questions About Outboards

For many kinds of boating, the outboard motor is the answer. But it comes with questions, too — which is better, two strokes or four? What’s the right prop ? Is the bigger motor the better motor? We’ve presented a few of the most debated questions to the experts, and here’s how they answer them.

Are four-strokes always better than two-stroke engines?

Answer: Are Fords better than Chevrolets? When it comes to outboard motors , the question is four-stroke vs. two-stroke . If you believe what you hear, the answer is etched across the stone board — four-strokes rule. But dig deeper and you find the answer isn’t so clear.

First, the technical distinction and difference between two-stroke and four-stroke engines. Four-stroke outboards, like the engine in the car in your driveway, burn straight gasoline within cylinders, circulating lubricating oil through a separate system. Oil and gas don’t mix, unless there’s a breakdown. Two-stroke engines, in contrast, burn a blend of gas and oil.

Traditional two-strokes were fed their oil-gas mix fuel by carburetor or injector into the cylinder through an intake valve. During part of this feeding, the exhaust valve was also open, and up to 30 percent of the fuel escaped unburned.

Jump ahead to two-stroke direct-fuel-injection (DFI) engines. The fuel is sprayed into the cylinder with precision timing while the piston covers the exhaust valve. There’s no loss of fuel. (In four-stroke engines, thanks to their four piston strokes per cycle, intake and exhaust take place at separate times.) DFI two-strokes and four-strokes both deliver much better fuel economy than traditional two-strokes, since they’re directed by computer and burn virtually all of the fuel.

Evinrude’s E-TEC two-stroke DFI engines inject fuel twice as fast as standard direct injection, even adjusting the fuel delivery and oil-gas mix as needed. We’ve tested the E-TEC engines, and they’re just as smooth and almost as quiet as four-strokes while maintaining more traditional two-stroke power.

On the other side, four-stroke motors are also erasing what was a clear division just two years ago, the one that said two-strokes are inherently more powerful. The industry once envisioned a 100-horsepower limit for four-strokes because of their extra weight. But the limit has vanished. Witness Suzuki’s 300-horsepower four-stroke at just 604 pounds.

“It’s a closer call than ever before,” says Mercury spokesperson Eric Pope. “The biggest myth is the idea that two-strokes are noisy, smelly and not very fuel efficient. It isn’t true today.”

Two versus four is now more a matter of boater preferences than ground-shaking practical distinctions. Through it all, both modern four-strokes and DFI two-strokes are mechanical marvels.

The Differences in Performance Between Two-Stroke and Four-Stroke Engines Are Shrinking

• Two-stroke DFIs are lighter than four-strokes with the same power, but the difference is shrinking. • Four-strokes are quieter than two-strokes, but the difference is shrinking. • Two-strokes generally provide a stronger hole shot, but the difference is shrinking.

Are two motors better than one?

You’ll mainly see duals (and triples) in offshore fishing applications. In most cases you can bet they’ve been installed for peace of mind for boaters who have visions of catastrophic loss of an engine at sea. Duals have also earned favor for making docking an easier task, thanks to the engines having props revolving in opposite directions.

But for this protection against an unlikely event, and for simpler steering dockside, a boater pays more money upfront — a lot more. Rigging with a pair of motors means you have to duplicate the controls and generally complicates installation.

“In performance, it’s a wash,” says Suzuki spokesman Rick Hauser. “Three hundred horses are three hundred horses, whether it comes through one prop or two.”

It really comes down to economics. If the price difference is not an issue, then twins are worth considering. Otherwise, a single is the simpler call.

Why Two Outboards Might Not Be Better Than One

• Multiple motors only provide security against breakdown if they’re truly independent, including fuel and power sources. • Hanging multiple motors adds power only if they exceed the power available in a single. • Another alternative is to run a single unit and add a satellite phone for breakdown recourse.

Is High Octane Gas the Best for my Engine?

Answer: When high-compression engines came on the scene, the increased pressure in their cylinders sometimes caused fuel to explode too early. That preignition, called spark knock, was more than an irritating noise (although certainly that); it caused engine damage.

The solution was to add materials to the fuel that would slow the ignition until the piston was ready for the spark plug to activate, which would avoid damage and make efficient use of that higher compression. So now, the higher the octane rating, the better the fuel can handle compression.

Sounds good. But the truth is high-octane fuel — usually 92 or 93 octane — is a waste of money for the majority of outboards. Most are built to run happily on 87 octane. Some manufacturers — such as Tohatsu — do recommend midrange fuel, usually 89 octane. Check your owner’s manual, and fuel up with what it prescribes. Go above the recommended octane and you’re giving away about 20 to 30 cents per gallon.

High Octane Gas is Probably Not Necessary for your Outboard Engine

• Only high-performance engines need high-octane fuel. • High-octane fuel in motors made for low-octane fuel nets no better performance, but bigger fuel bills. • In a few cases, motor makers might prescribe midrange fuel, usually 89 octane.

What Size Outboard Motor do I Need?

Answer: Boat buyers years ago were made rightfully leery of boat packages when some dealers priced them with puny outboards, and then coached the consumer up to a more respectable power plant before closing the deal. Those who spent the extra bucks for a bigger motor were generally well-served; those who stayed with a small motor for the lower price point were often disappointed.

Things are better now: There are fewer underpowered packages on the market. Still, bigger is generally better.

One of the worst things you can do is under-power a boat. You’ll never savor the performance built into the hull. You won’t be as prepared to scoot from an approaching storm. Potential buyers of your boat down the road will cast a jaundiced eye.

Going with the boat maker’s maximum rating, found on the inspection plate, is a pretty safe bet. If you’re on the fence, you can check with boat manufacturers, who generally have available test data on the boat of your choice powered with various makes and models of engines.

Why a Larger Outboard Engine Makes Sense

• Take sea trials with boats that have less-than-max motors. We’ve noted in tests that some smaller motors power boats — particularly pontoons — beautifully. • For the biggest seas and the heaviest loads, you want the biggest boy on the back of the boat. • When was the last time you heard someone say they bought a boat with too large a motor?

How do I get the Right Prop for my Engine?

Answer: The maker of your outboard probably equipped it with a decent, middle-of-the-road propeller. If not, the dealer likely did. But if either of them installed the perfect prop for you, it was probably dumb luck: The correct prop depends on how you’ll load your boat, and how you’ll use it.

First, some propeller basics. Props are measured in diameter and pitch. You remember diameter from high-school geometry, of course, but pitch? Propeller pitch is the theoretical distance the propeller would travel through one complete revolution if there was no slippage.

Moving away from the prop itself for a minute, consider that engine manufacturers rate their product’s horsepower at a specific rpm, setting rpm ranges for top-end operation. It can only hit that top-end bracket if it’s powering the right propeller. If the prop allows the motor to over-rev, then wear and friction can occur. If the propeller restrains the motor from reaching that prime range, it gets poor mileage and you risk other damage. You can protect your motor and improve its performance by picking the right pitch.

You can test your prop by running your boat at wide-open throttle. (If you’re over the maximum rpm, throttle down until the needle is within the manufacturer-suggested range.) Ashore, inspect the propeller to learn its pitch. Figuring that you get about a 200 rpm drop for each increase in pitch, try a different prop. A cupped propeller will also reduce rpm by about 200. Some dealers will even let you test a prop, provided you return it undamaged and promptly.

As long as it hits but doesn’t exceed the motor’s top-end range, a prop delivering wide-open rpms toward the bottom of the range provides stronger hole shots, while those toward the top generate slightly higher top speeds.

What to Know About Boat Engine Propellers

• Prop condition can be more important than type: A damaged prop can destroy the engine spinning it. • Stainless-steel props run truest and are five times as strong, but aluminum is cheaper and sacrifices itself to protect the lower unit. • A four-blade prop beats a three-blade in time to plane, midrange speed and low-speed handling.

How Much Maintenance is Necessary on my Outboard Engine?

Answer: There is little you need to do to maintain an outboard motor — but what is still needed is vitally important. You can blow up an engine by neglecting its cooling needs, clog it up by ignoring potential fuel problems, bust it up by letting the lower unit sit over winter with leaky seals. Depleted zincs can invite corrosion. Dinged props can shake the stuffing out of bearings and other moving parts. Owner’s manuals have slim maintenance sections. That doesn’t mean they’re unimportant.

Easy Outboard Engine Maintenance Tips

• Keep the fuel tank topped to reduce the chances of condensation building up when the motor isn’t in use. • Add fuel stabilizer every time you add fuel — it’s important now with ethanol fuels. • Inspect the prop at every opportunity. A ding might cause chatter at cruising speeds, but a tiny one could go unnoticed — and still do damage. • Look over the fittings and hoses; cool water needs to run through the motor to keep it from burning up.

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Selecting the Best Outboard Motor

• By Jim Hendricks
• Updated: July 15, 2019

Choosing the Right Outboard Motor for Your Needs

Boating anglers face intriguing choices today when it comes to the popular 200 hp four-stroke outboard motor category. In the past, all 200 hp four-strokes used six-cylinder powerheads. Now, however, Mercury, Suzuki and Yamaha offer four-cylinder 200s, while keeping similarly rated six-cylinder motors in their lineups. (Honda offers just one 200, a V-6.)

This creates a perplexing question for boating anglers shopping for the best outboard motor in this power range, be it for a new boat or for re-powering an older one: Which should you choose, the four- or six‑cylinder model? And what’s the best outboard motor for the money?

Outboard industry experts say the answer depends on a number of major factors related to the type of boat, its usage and the angler’s expectations.

“You need to look at the application demands,” says Lawrence Teeling, product category manager for Mercury Marine’s 75 to 350 hp outboards. “What does the user want? In terms of torque, what does the vessel need? And how much weight can it handle?”

Mercury 200 Verado I-4

Torque differences in outboard motors.

Today’s six-cylinder 200 possesses greater displacement, largely because it has two more cylinders than does an in-line four-cylinder (I-4) of identical horsepower. As a result, six-cylinder versions develop their torque more quickly and over a broader range of revolutions per minute than do I-4 outboards, says David Meeler, marine product planning and information manager for Yamaha Marine.

The Yamaha F200 V-6, one of the best 200 hp outboard motors, features 3.3 liters of displacement. That’s 17.8 percent more than the Yamaha F200 I-4, with 2.8 liters, and that can make a big difference in acceleration. “With our F200 V-6, the torque comes on early,” Meeler explains. “All things being equal, including optimum propeller choices, the V-6 will blast out of the hole quicker than the F200 four-cylinder.”

So if your preference is to jump on plane as quickly as possible, you should look to six-­cylinder outboards, whether in a single- or twin-engine application.

Suzuki’s DF200A I-4

Boat weight.

The weight of the boat ranks as one of the most critical factors in deciding between a four- and six-cylinder outboard, says Meeler. “Lightweight boats such as bay boats and center-­consoles under 22 feet usually perform well with a single four-cylinder ­outboard,” he explains.

A larger, twin-engine ­center-console that is relatively light for its size might also perform nicely with twin I-4 outboards. Heavier boats, on the other hand, might need the broader torque curve provided by a six-cylinder outboard for adequate acceleration and to plane without struggling or overtaxing the engine(s).

“Because of the longer piston stroke, our [DT225] V-6 has more torque throughout its rpm range,” says David Greenwood, product planning manager for Suzuki Marine. “If a guy has a big, heavy twin-engine boat, he probably wants a pair of V-6s rather than I-4 outboards.”

Meeler concurs. “There really is no replacement for displacement when it comes to providing a fuller torque curve to power a heavy boat,” he says. “That’s why the F200 V-6 outboard is in the Yamaha line. It gives you six ­cylinders to spread out the load.”

Yamaha Marine’s F200 V-6 Outboard

Hull capacity.

The ability of a boat’s hull to handle the weight of an outboard also plays into the equation when searching for the best outboard motor, particularly when re-powering boats that were originally designed for the older two-stroke engines, says Teeling.

“The older two-strokes were ­relatively light,” he points out. “But you can replace them with a newer four-stroke engine as long as you’re within 20 to 40 pounds [of the original two-stroke weight].”

That’s where the I-4 outboards come in. They can weigh substantially less than their six-cylinder counterparts, making them more on par with old two-strokes in terms of weight.

Mercury’s 200 Verado I-4, for instance, tips the scales at 510 pounds (with a 20-inch shaft). That’s 19.6 percent lighter than the 635-pound six-cylinder (Mercury uses an in-line six-block) 200 Verado Pro four-stroke with a 20-inch shaft.

“If a guy wants maximum horsepower but not the extra weight, the four-cylinder Verado 200 gives it to him,” says Teeling. Less weight can also translate to less draft, and that’s important to anglers who fish shallow water in craft such as bay boats. You can get into skinnier water and possibly catch more fish with a lighter outboard.

In addition, boating anglers who have always wanted twin engines, but whose boats are incapable of handling the weight of two six-cylinder outboards on the transom, can now opt to re-power with a pair of lighter I-4s.

Yamaha Marine’s F200 I-4 Outboard

Fuel efficiency in outboard motors.

“All things the same, a four-cylinder burns less fuel [at cruising speed] versus a six-cylinder, largely because you are feeding 33 percent fewer ­cylinders,” says Greenwood. The boat is also carrying less weight with a four-cylinder, and that can contribute to better fuel efficiency, he points out.

To gain perspective, I looked at performance bulletins from Yamaha for the 3.3-liter 200 V-6 and 2.8-liter 200 I-4 run on the same model boat, a NauticStar 2200XS center-console.

In both tests (run on separate ­occasions), the boat achieved optimum fuel efficiency at 3,500 rpm and roughly the same speed (24.3 and 24.4 mph, respectively). The V-6 achieved 4.12 mpg, while the I-4 got 4.44 mpg. That’s 7.7 percent better fuel economy for the I-4, the result of burning less fuel — 5.5 gph versus 5.9 gph for the V-6.

On a heavier craft, the savings could dissipate because an I-4 might need to work harder and/or rev higher than a V-6 to keep the boat on plane. As indicated earlier, a six-cylinder with a broader torque range could be a better choice in such applications. In addition, an engine that does not work as hard will tend to last longer.

A captain who likes to run at wide-open throttle might experience worse fuel efficiency with an I-4. In the case of the NauticStar 2200XS, the Yamaha 200 V-6 achieved 2.64 mpg at wide-open throttle, while the 200 I-4 posted 2.23 mpg with the throttle pinned.

After a cursory review of 200 hp four-stroke outboard prices on the Internet, I found that an I-4 costs about $1,000 to $2,000 less than its six-cylinder counterparts, but I would not let the difference in price sway a decision. Rather, as the experts point out, your selection should hinge on the type of fishing boat , how you plan to run it, and the goals you set for performance and fuel efficiency.

Evinrude 200 hp Outboards

Boating anglers considering a two-stroke Evinrude 200 might also become confused by their choices. The company offers more than one direct-fuel-injected two‑stroke V-6 outboards.

The new E-Tec G2 200 features 2.7 liters of cylinder displacement, while the heavier E-Tec G2 200 H.O. boasts a displacement of 3.44 liters. You can apply the same principles I outlined for four-cylinder four-strokes to the E-Tec G2 200, and use the six-cylinder principles for the G2 200 H.O.

We’ve learned that selecting the best outboard motor for your boat will depend on a number of factors. Who makes the best outboard motor is still up for debate, but we have listed several manufacturers in this article that should be in contention.

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The ultimate 10hp outboard engine group test

We pit six of the best 10hp outboard engines on the market against each other for our latest group test

The 10hp outboard engine category is an incredibly important one. At this size a modern 4-stroke engine has enough grunt to get most tenders planing even with two to three adults on board.

Crucially, a 10hp outboard is also just about light enough to lug around (provided your back can cope with roughly 40kg).

You still won’t be breaking any speed records but a 10hp outboard on the back of a 3m tender feels pretty lively at 15 knots, and with two cylinders rather than one it will be a whole lot smoother too.

In short, it’s enough to turn your tender from a simple workhorse into a genuinely fun and capable addition to the mothership.

So with that in mind, we’ve brought all the market leaders together and pitched them head-to-head to see how they performed, and have even included a propane-powered alternative as our wild card.

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Carrying the engines down a wet slipway then attaching them to the transom of a 2.9-metre Orange Marine tender gave us a chance to test how portable they are.

After a gentle warm-up spin we then tested them for acceleration, speed and noise. Manoeuvres around the marina also gave us a chance to see how usable the gears and throttle were, even at full lock.

How we scored them

We rated each of the engines for build quality, performance, refinement and ease of use, with a maximum of five stars in each category.

While any assessment of build quality includes an element of subjectivity, we based our ratings on the visible and tactile engineering of each engine as well as brand reputation and the length of warranty.

Performance is based on the figures we recorded in two different directions then averaged out to take account of wind and tide.

Bear in mind that the acceleration figure refers to the length of time taken to reach each engine’s top speed, so the faster the top speed the longer it should take to reach it.

Refinement refers largely to the sound levels we monitored at idle, cruise and top speed, but also includes our own assessment of engine smoothness and sound quality, not just volume.

Ease of use largely comes down to the weight and ergonomics of the design. Easy-to-reach, comfortable handholds are essential when carrying and lowering engines on to a transom and key controls like the gear lever, throttle and tilt mechanisms all play a key role.

The final MBY rating is not simply an average of the stars scored but how we rate them against their peers.

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Inboard vs. Outboard Motors

Table of Contents

Last Updated on November 3, 2023 by Boatsetter Team

Inboard vs outboard motors, which is better? Although a divisive one, this discussion is as important as it is overdue. Boat owners, be they rough and ready fishermen or pleasure sailing dandies, usually fall into two camps: those who sing the praises of inboard motors and those dedicated to all things outboard. 

The first thing to notice is that over the last decade (or two), there has been a growing trend of new boats coming equipped with outboard motors. According to survey data by the NADA , the boating industry sold more outboard motor-powered crafts over the last few years than ever before. In fact, more than 165,500 outboard motors were sold in 2016. Some pundits have argued that this is due to consumer preferences, while others have said it is more cost-effective to install for manufacturers. 

However, does this mean that this variety of motor trumps the inboard? After all, why would outboard motors become the standard for boating power if they were not the best?

Not so fast.

Every experienced owner of a boat has a preference. This is even more true of manufacturers. Ask anyone in the boating game what type of motor they prefer, and you will get a different answer. You are likely to start up a fierce debate – be warned! Whatever you might have heard at the port , it is vital that before you attempt to choose your ideal style of motor, you must set aside any preconceived notions you may have.

The truth is: neither motor wins outright in the perennial inboard vs. outboard debate. Like your own kids or car collection, each one has its own merits and quirks. Nevertheless, the motors do outclass one another in specific categories and areas. As such, must depends on what you plan to do with your boat and your personal preferences. Freshwater or saltwater? Manoeuvrability or stability? Speed or stamina? All of these questions, alongside a million more, ought to be considered.

Inboard Motors

True to its namesake, an inboard motor is fixed inside the boat, typically at the hull . Petrol and gas versions have combustion engines with firing cylinders, whereas electric models differ. Inboard motors are often housed in a large box in the middle of the vessel. This center of gravity is a huge benefit to a drifting experience.

You can spot an inboard at the port by the distinct rudder used to steer the ship. Fishing trawlers on the high seas rely on these of their lower center of gravity. At the same time, slalom skiers enjoy their smaller wake . Larger vessels, like yachts, also use inboard motors but require bigger models, which cannot be placed on the rear of the hull.

Making a judgment on the merits and drawbacks of the inboard is tricky as those who prefer them have their own set of valid reasons. While they need a large box in the middle of the ship to hold the engine – something that can reduce much-needed deck space – they are quieter than their outboard counterparts. This renders them more suitable to the socialites out there who love entertaining. And let us not forget those fishing folks. A quieter boat is less likely to disturb your prey, ensuring a bigger and better catch is had by all.

Albeit ever so slightly more expensive than their outboard counterparts, inboard motors have a penchant for fuel-efficiency. This is because they are modeled on car engines. Moreover, this means that they boast better torque and horsepower for some hair-raising water antics.

A major – and potentially dangerous – downside to the inboard is that it can be a fire hazard. Unfortunately, countless vessels have been damaged and destroyed by fires that began in the inboard motor. Yet fear not. Running a bilge blower can solve that issue.

Check out this post for more tips on  how to look after your pride and joy .

Outboard Motors

With sales figures as high as those quoted earlier, it is little wonder that the market for outboard motors is huge. No, gigantic. What this means for consumers is that there is ample choice out there. There is an outboard motor to suit any and every function for fishing, recreational boating, or small commercial outfits. 

The engine of an outboard is rear mounted on the boat and is commanded by a handle for steering and titling. The propellers can be lifted out of the water completely, which means that transporting and storing them when not in use is a breeze. More so, this feature means that the propellers avoid sitting in the water for prolonged periods, protecting them from erosion and the growth of organic matter. This maximizes durability, of course.  

Another notable advantage of the outboard is that its position on the boat makes replacing the motor a simpler process than the inboard. Indeed, replacing an inboard is often an expensive and time-consuming task. This capability means that you can easily upgrade to a new, more powerful motor should you wish to – all without the need for specialist tools or professional expertise. This same simplicity also carries over to repairing and maintaining an outboard. That is if you need to do so. Outboard motors are famous for their dependability.

Yet, outboards are not impervious to faults. A significant drawback of this style of motor is that its power can often leave much to be desired. The bottom line is: outboard motors are insufficient for large vessels. Well, unless you want to spend your life savings on fuel. Finally, outboards take up space. And lots of it. If you wish to entertain on your boat, which is your primary purpose, you might want to consider the inboard. Again, much depends on your needs.

But before we move on to cost, maintenance, and power comparisons, let us talk hybrids. Oh yes, that is right, here it is, the curveball: the happy medium, the center-ground. Although the hybrid resembles more the outboard with the motor mounted at the rear of the hull, the propeller shaft passes through the boat’s hull. Sharing most of the pros and cons of the outboard, the hybrid also comes with the challenges of the inboard’s positioning.

Want to read more about all things hybrid? Check out this  2020 Guide to hybrid and electric boats .

Cost Comparisons

Of course, the larger the engine, the more expensive it will be to purchase. But you may want to also consider maintenance and replacement costs, along with the life expectancy of the motor design. 

For instance, inboard motors typically have a longer life expectancy than outboards. Meanwhile, maintenance requirements, based on hours of use, tend to favor the inboards. To be clear, inboards, on average, can run for near two thousand hours before they might require attention, whereas outboards usually run for around 750 hours before a service is needed.

Yet pay attention : purchasing an inboard motor will be heavier on the purse strings and can entail insurance coverage with more expensive premiums.

Sounds confusing, doesn’t it? Never fear. This  boat payment calculator  can assist you with the difficulties of working out finances by working out the running costs of your chosen engine. It is where boating veterans of all stripes get their knowledge.

Maintenance Costs

It can be a boring topic. However, you ignore it at your peril: maintenance. As touched upon earlier, outboard motors are used praised for their low, no-nonsense maintenance requirements. Situated at the rear of the hull, their housing protects the inner workings of the motor from the environment.

Hybrids and inboard alike share the same issue: positioning. At the boat’s bilge, steam, damp, and good old H20 can wreak havoc inside the motor when you need to open it for maintenance, potentially causing you a pain in the behind (and wallet). Compounding matters, accessing them is also tricky. This is primarily caused by the petite hatch in their housing, giving you less wriggle room than an outboard.

When you wish to place your boat on land, outboard motors also do not have a drain due to their placement on the boat. This means that excess water can sit around, again creating trouble if you decide to take your boat out of the water. Conversely, inboard varieties avoid this design, which protects them from possible damages caused by moisture.

Power Comparison

POWER. It is a topic you cannot avoid considering. The directional thrust and integral skeg of the outboard mean that a boat equipped with one of these bad boys is nimble on the water, especially at low power and speed. The benefits of this are countless. However, an outboard motor mostly enables you to navigate shallower waters better and park your boat up neatly.

Although there is one thing to bear in mind: despite having a superior power to weight ratio than inboards, outboards lack the total torque to drive big, beefy vessels. However, enthusiasts generally circumvent this issue by adding a second motor. Nowadays, it is not uncommon to see three or four motors adorning their transoms.

Moving on to the inboard, describing them is easy: they are the complete opposite of the outboard in this regard. The fixed position of the propellers under the middle of the boat reduces maneuverability, particularly at lower speeds. This is not to imply the inboard is a slug, however. They are adored by water sports enthusiasts worldwide as they have better wake control, major towing power, and a clear transom for tow ropes. If you are into wakeboarding and water skiing, then an inboard is for you. Besides, a lower center of gravity also helps cut through heavy ocean waves.

So, Which One is Best?

There you have it: a complete guide to outboard vs. inboard motors.

To recap, the advantages of an inboard motor are that they have brilliant fuel efficiency, superior torque and power, and increased life expectancy, and quiet operation. Whereas its downsides are that there is reduced interior space, higher purchasing costs, labor-intensive maintenance, more complex repairs, and full boat winterization is required.

Outboard motors, on the other hand, have a myriad of sought-after traits. Their full portability, easy maintenance, space-saving storage, and simple winterizing procedures, significantly lower price tag, extra interior space, and higher potential top speed. Still, do not forget the challenges. Some of them might break your choice. Most notable of which include low power and torque, which limits their suitability for vessels of certain sizes.

While there are many pros and cons to inboard and outboard motors, it is important to bear in mind that making the right choice is completely up to you and your needs. You may find a better outboard, despite setting out to buy an inboard and vice-versa. The size of your boat, desired maneuverability, boating frequency, local climate, and favorite water activity are essential factors to consider.

Good luck, and remember to do your research. The right decision will enrich your boating experiences to no end and might even prove gentler on the bank balance.

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• Outboard Motors Basics

5 of the Best Boat Motors for 2022

The world of boat motors is constantly evolving. Even with the 2020 pandemic and supply chain struggles of 2021, many manufacturers produced exciting new outboards. The 4-stroke technology that companies such as Tohatsu, Mercury, Honda, and Suzuki are using is resulting in some of the most powerful, eco-friendly boat motors on the market yet. Now, the only decision you need to make is which is best for your water adventures:

2022 Tohatsu 8 HP MFS8BEFL

Lightest 8 HP Motor in Its Class The Tohatsu 8 HP Outboard Motor model #MFS8BEFL is a two-cylinder, 4-stroke outboard motor which comes equipped with a 20-inch-long shaft and tiller steering. Weighing in at a surprisingly low 90 pounds, this is the lightest 8 HP motor in its class.

• Rope and electric start
• 5-year warranty
• 3.1 gallon fuel tank
• Advanced digital CD ignition system

2022 Mercury 5 HP 5MLHA-LPG Sail Power Propane Outboard Motor

More Convenience, Less Hassle with Sail Power Mercury’s all-new 4-Stroke Propane boat motor is designed for sailboats and features an alternator and more thrust. While it’s ideal for sailboats, it’s also a great fit for aluminum tillers and inflatable jon/utility boats.

• Only 58 pounds
• 3-year warranty
• 4 / 2 amp / 50 / 25 watt charging system
• Digital CD ignition with Spark Advance
• Rated for saltwater use

2022 Mercury 2.5 HP 2.5MH Outboard Motor

Affordable, Portable Power This 2.5 HP outboard is perfect for small inflatable boats, canoes, and other small boats. The Mercury boat motors are known for their large displacement powerhead which gives this outboard substantially more power than other similar class-rated engines.

• 15-inch short shaft
• Twist grip throttle
• Forward-neutral gear shift
• Built-in 1-liter fuel tank with tiller steering
• 3-year factory warranty

2022 HONDA 5 HP BF5DHSHNA Outboard Motor

BEST SELLER: The Dependability You Want in a Lightweight Motor This incredibly compact and lightweight boat motor is ideal for small tenders, canoes, and jon boats. It gives you a quiet, smooth ride and will keep your water adventures powered for years to come.

• 4-stroke design
• Fold-down tiller handle
• True 5 Warranty
• Large displacement engine for more power
• 4-front corrosion protection system

2022 HONDA 8 HP BF8DK3LHA Outboard Motor

More of What You Want on the Water The BF8 gives you more battery charging power, user-friendly features, and even quieter performance. This reliable motor is backed by the best warranty in the business, giving you the peace of mind that you’re investing in something truly worthwhile.

• One hand starting
• Ultra-low 3-star CARB emissions
• Available with Power Thrust Design (BFP)

Not sure which of these new boat motors is right for you? Our experts are here to help!

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• Nov 08, 2021
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Top 5 Outboard Motor Brands Ranked

by Mobile Motorboat Mechanics | Feb 5, 2023

1. Yamaha Outboard 

Known for their reliability, Y am aha Out board Motors are the ideal choice for any adventurous bo ater looking for consistent performance and superior power . With advanced designs , these out board motors deliver an incredible combination of power , torque , refined performance and fuel efficiency . Built with innovative technology , Yamaha out board motors are designed to maximize power , reliability and fuel efficiency when you ’ re out on the water . Models in both two – stroke and four – stroke configurations offer superior torque and smooth acceleration that are sure to make your bo ating experience even more enjoyable .

On top of that , Yamaha ’ s unique complementary systems ensure maximum control and responsiveness , giving you complete confidence when the waves get rough . Back ed by a 3 – year limited warranty and unbeat able quality , Yamaha Out board Motors provide depend able and powerful performance for your next n autical adventure .

2. Mercury Outboards

With a variety of different options, Mercury Outboard Motors are the best choice for any type of boating experience, offering high-performance engines and innovative designs to make your next journey a memorable one. From leisurely days on the lake to getting through rough waters, these advanced outboard motors provide superior power, performance, and durability. Boasting modern designs in both two-stroke and four-stroke models, along with various power ratings, Mercury Outboard Motors provide peace of mind and plenty of get up and go for a safe and comfortable ride. Thanks to exclusive features such as optimized fuel economy, improved throttle response and integrated Digital Throttle & Shift functionality, you can enjoy smooth, effortless acceleration and precise control. Durable construction, backed by a 3 year limited non-declining warranty, ensures that Mercury Outboard Motors deliver reliable power and performance every time you hit the water.

3. Suzuki Outboards

While not quite as reliable, Suzuki Outboard Motors offer a great range of performance and power for recreational and commercial boaters alike. Combining innovative engineering with proven design technology, these outboard motors provide superior torque, smooth acceleration and steady performance, with reliable fuel economy across a range of four-stroke models. Thanks to advanced systems and innovative features, the driving experience with a Suzuki Outboard is second to none, allowing for greater control and precision on the water. Each motor is backed by a 3-year limited warranty and designed for maximum durability, making Suzuki Outboard Motors the perfect choice for a reliable, powerful and enjoyable journey.

4. Evinrude + Johnson Outboards

Evinrude Outboard Motors make the perfect addition to any boating excursion. With models available in two stroke configurations, these reliable outboard motors provide a range of power and torque to get you to your destination with ease. Evinrude’s advanced designs optimize performance, maximizing fuel economy and performance so you can enjoy a smooth and efficient ride. Thanks to features such as the E-TEC Direct Injection Technology, Evinrude engines provide improved throttle response and optimal fuel burn for a smooth, reliable ride, while their advanced cooling systems reduce the risk of overheating, ensuring peak performance and total control. Backed by a 3-year limited warranty, Evinrude Outboard Motors are the perfect choice for all types of boating adventure.

5. Honda, Tohatsu, Force, and Mariner Outboard Motors

Coming in 5th is a four way tie between the Honda, Tohatsu, Force, and Mariner brands. Why are these ranked so low? Simple – many technicians refuse to work on these due to limited parts availability, lack of training and limited experience. Sure – these can be a good deal – but unless you plan on repairing yourself we suggest you look elsewhere.

• Articles and Guides

Best Outboard Motor Brands for Your Boat

14th jul 2023 by lenny rudow.

Which is the best outboard motor brand? Ask that question at your local marina and you’d better be ready for some serious fireworks—everyone has their opinions on this topic, and they tend to be strong opinions. Truth be told, however, in this day and age on the whole it’s tough to go wrong with any of the major outboard engine brands. Years ago many outboards were dirty, smelly, finicky, and unreliable, but modern four-stroke engine technology has made them far more pleasant to run and vastly more dependable.

Of course, four-stroke gasoline engines aren’t the only type of outboard on the market today. And that begs the question, which is the best outboard motor for the money? For most of us it will be that four-stroke, but there are some exceptions. And while most people tend to paint outboard motor brands with a broad brush, there are plenty of examples of specific models, horsepower ranges, or platforms where one manufacturer in particular shines the brightest. 

Types of Outboard Motors

At the most basic level, an outboard engine is any boat motor that can be clamped or bolted onto the transom of a boat to provide propulsion. Most will have a powerhead under a cowl at the top, a midsection where the motor attaches to the boat and that contains a driveshaft running to the lower unit, and a lower section where gears transfer power from the shaft to the propeller. But, as we’ll soon see, there are some exceptions.

Four-stroke gasoline outboard engines

With the retirement of Evinrude, the last manufacturer focused on two-stroke gasoline outboard engines, the vast majority of the gasoline-fueled outboards on the water today are four-strokes. The smallest you’ll commonly see in today’s market are single-cylinder 2.3- to 2.5-horsepower models, and they range all the way up to massive V-12 600-hp models. 

Modern four-strokes dominate the market for two very simple reasons: they’re a pleasure to run, and they’re shockingly reliable. Noise and vibration levels are a fraction of what many boaters were accustomed to compared to historic two-strokes. In many cases, they’re so smooth and quiet you don’t even realize the four-stroke is running until you shift it into gear. That makes the boating experience a lot more pleasurable. But what’s even better is knowing that when you turn the key, the engine is going to start. Decades ago, outboards were notoriously unreliable, but today they rival most modern automobiles. Ask a marine industry professional “What is the best outboard motor?” and many would simply answer “a four-stroke,” rather than calling out any one specific brand.

Photo credit: Mercury Marine

Electric outboard engines

Just a few years ago, electric outboards would have been relegated to the bottom of this list, as only a few makes and models were available and it was generally left up to the buyer to figure out how to power them with off-the-shelf batteries. Today, however, it’s a different story. Modern electric outboards are available from under one horsepower all the way up to 300-hp with one manufacturer, Evoy, planning to introduce a 400-hp model in 2024. 

Critically, electric outboard manufacturers have begun to offer complete power packages including the highly specialized batteries needed along with the motor itself. In some cases the batteries clip directly on top of the motor’s midsection and the unit looks so similar to a gasoline outboard that it’s tough to tell the difference—other than the complete absence of the sounds, vibrations, and exhaust of internal combustion. And in others, big battery packs are integrated into the boat. Either way, the consumer gets a complete package that’s purpose-designed and ready for use.

Diesel outboard engines

There are only a handful of diesel outboard manufacturers, ranging from 150- to 300-hp. Diesel outboards tend to be quite large and heavy, so they aren’t ideal for most applications. However, the fact that they run on diesel as opposed to gasoline makes them an attractive option for yacht tenders, since they can be refueled by the yacht itself without having to carry more volatile gasoline aboard. For the same reason, diesel outboards are sometimes used by the military. Diesels also tend to offer more range per gallon of fuel, making them an attractive option for some commercial fleets, and in some cases, they can replace inboard engines where previously outboards weren’t an option. (See Outboard Vs Inboard: Which Engine is Best for You , to learn why you might prefer one over the other).

Propane outboard engines

Propane outboards grew quickly in popularity about a decade ago, but quickly crashed when many made by the largest manufacturer (which is today out of business) turned out to be plagued by substandard parts and poor reliability. Better models survived, however, and today there are two 5-hp propane outboards (made by Mercury and Tohatsu) on the market. Many people like them for their quiet, fume-free operation and the ability to fuel them with a convenient propane canister.

Most Powerful Outboard Motor Brands

Mercury Marine undisputedly builds the most powerful outboard engine being manufactured today. Their 600-hp Verado is the world’s first V-12 outboard engine, producing a full 100 horses more than the next closest option. This engine is a 1,260-pound beast, displaces a whopping 7.6 liters, and is available in shaft lengths to 35 inches. 

The V-12 Verado has a lot more to it than sheer power. It’s also the first outboard with a two-speed transmission, which shifts so smoothly it’s more or less imperceptible. And in another first, the engine boasts a steerable gearcase. Turn the steering wheel and the cowl remains static, while the lower unit swivels and turns. Additional highlights include twin contra-rotating propellers, integrated electro-hydraulic steering, and a top hatch that allows maintenance access without having to remove the cowl.

Next in line in the power parade is another Mercury, the 500R from Mercury Racing. To create it, Mercury Racing took Mercury’s 4.6-liter V-8 platform, added a supercharger, and then increased supercharger boost while also upgrading some components to accommodate for the additional stresses. Weighing only 720 pounds, it sets a new bar for power density.

The third heavyweight contender is the Yamaha F450. This engine was recently upgraded from the F425 after Yamaha improved exhaust and intake flow, and tweaked the cams and valves. The F450 is the only direct-injection four-stroke outboard in existence, which means that fuel hits 2900 psi at the injection nozzle and is atomized for more complete burning. The F450 also has a unique phased-angle-control charging system which puts out a rather shocking 96 amps at idle. The output is “stackable,” so multiple engine rigs derive the entire benefit of each engine’s charging capacity. That means a twin-engine setup can put out so much juice it’s possible to eliminate the need for a generator to power large energy-sucking appliances like gyroscopic stabilizers and air-conditioning systems.

Photo credit: Yamaha Motor

Best Small Outboard Motor Brands

In the small engine department, Suzuki Marine definitely warrants a call-out. With the DF15A and DF20A, Suzuki created the world’s first battery-less EFI outboards. EFI not only delivers better fuel economy and easy one-tug starting, but by eliminating the carburetor and closing the fuel system, it also turns most ethanol problems into ancient history. Considering how troublesome ethanol proved to be with small carbureted engines, this was a major milestone. Since its initial introduction Suzuki has brought battery-less EFI down to its 9.9-hp model and up through the powerband to eliminate carburetors on all of its outboards above that mark. 

Additionally, many of Suzuki’s small outboards boast features like offset crankshafts, oil-bathed timing chains, and “troll mode” systems that allow the fine-tuning of RPM to increments of 50 rpm. While many manufacturers invest all of their time, energy, and tech into developing larger (and thus more profitable) powerplants, Suzuki has proved a leader in the best small outboard motor department.

Best Electric Outboard Motor Brands

A lot of electric outboard manufacturer startups have appeared recently, and many of these motors simply don’t have enough time under the belt yet to prove their longevity nor their ability to survive in the marketplace. So at this point in time, it would be dicey to try to claim which is the best electric outboard motor on the water today. 

Torqeedo electric outboards have been around much longer than most. Their lineup of one- to 80-hp outboards has certainly done better than any others on the market, and they’ve proven themselves reliable over the long term. Torqeedo also has integrated battery systems ranging from 500 Wh clip-ons, to a next-generation 79.2 kWh lithium iron phosphate powerhouse that’s rated for 4,000 cycles and is backed by a 10-year capacity warranty. As to whether or when one of the newcomers may unseat Torqeedo from the best electric outboard motor throne, we can’t say.

Evoy also gets a mention here, since they’re building an entirely different class of motor with 120- and 300-hp ratings. The same goes for Vision Marine, which is building a 180-hp powertrain fueled by a 70 kWh power bank. Time will tell how these do in the real world, but we note that Four Winns thought enough of the Vision system to team up with the company and build the H2e, an all-electric bowrider model.

Finally, we need to point out that by the time you read these words there’s a good chance a new electric outboard builder has popped up, and/or that one of the major companies has new offerings to consider. Yamaha now has its Harmo electric package (being sold to boatbuilders as opposed on the open market) and just this year Mercury introduced its first Avator model, a 3.5-hp electric with a drop-in battery that Mercury says is just the first of many electric models to come.

Top Outboard Motor Brands

The number of outboard motor manufacturers is really quite small considering how many outboard engines get sold every year, and the top three hold the lion’s share of the marketplace. Listed in alphabetical order they include:

Mercury Marine

Mercury is one of the largest manufacturers in existence, and you’ve already seen the name pop up as the builder of the top two most powerful outboard engines. In business since 1939, Mercury is based in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, has manufacturing locations worldwide, and is owned by the Brunswick Corporation.

Suzuki Marine

By volume, Suzuki marine is the smallest of these top three, but has been gaining market share for many years. With a reputation for excellent reliability throughout their lineup from the smallest engine to their largest, Suzuki has won nine National Marine Manufacturers Association Innovation Awards.

Yamaha Outboards

In production since 1960, Yamaha outboards are known for reliability especially in their epically popular V-6 4.2-liter platform. The company has also proved a pioneer in developing complete power and control systems, as opposed to just engines, with products like their Helm Master joystick.

Written By: Lenny Rudow

With over three decades of experience in marine journalism, Lenny Rudow has contributed to dozens of boating and fishing publications and websites. Rudow lives in Annapolis, Maryland, and is currently Angler in Chief at Rudow’s FishTalk ; he is a past president of Boating Writers International (BWI), a graduate of the Westlawn School of Yacht Design, and has won numerous BWI and OWAA writing awards.

More from: Lenny Rudow

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The 5 Best Outboard Motors for Powering Your Aquatic Adventures

From a 3-horsepower electric to Mercury Racing's new 450R, there's a lot happening with outboards.

Outboard motors tend to evolve at the pace of the Nile crocodile, which dates to the early Pleistocene and has minimal updates for the 2019 model year. But lately, there's been a lot of action from every major manufacturer—Mercury, Yamaha, Evinrude and Suzuki.

And, particularly for low-horsepower outboards, electric power is becoming not only viable but preferable. If you don't need to do 40 mph or push a 30-footer, a small electric model like the Torqueedo Travel 1103C can make a lot of sense—self-contained, quiet and portable.

Here are five outboards that might well give you a reason to repower your boat with something quiet, clean, and new.

Mercury Racing 450R

When Mercury introduced its new 4.6-liter V8 Verado last year, we knew it was only a matter of time before they upped the horsepower in a big way. Which they’ve now done with the 450R, which brings a 2.4-liter twin-screw supercharger and an available Sport Master gearcase to the party. The 450R is lightweight—with a 25-inch shaft, the 450R weighs 702 pounds. It’s also available in a 20-inch shaft, which has hilarious high-speed connotations for bass boats.

A three-year warranty indicates that Mercury Racing is confident that the 450R isn’t unduly stressed, despite its top-of-the-food-chain power rating. And that horsepower number is achieved on 89-octane pump gas, so it’s not like you have to trailer your boat over to the local drag strip to fill up on 100-octane race gas. With outboards, total horsepower is limited by what you can physically fit on the back of the boat—if you have a boat with quad 350s and repower with 450Rs, it’s like adding a whole extra engine.

Evinrude E-TEC G2 150

Four-cylinder four-strokes are basically the industry standard in this power category, but Evinrude goes in a decidedly different direction with its new 150 horsepower E-TEC . A 1.9-liter three-cylinder direct-injected two-stroke, the G2 E-TEC foregoes the G1’s V6 architecture (though they still sell that one, too, as well as the V6 G2 150 H.O.) in the name of efficiency. Which it delivers, to the tune of 12 mpg at a fast trolling speed on a 20-foot boat.

A 150 horsepower outboard can be deployed on a wide variety of boats, to the G2 can be controlled via a mechanical steering cable, external hydraulic, integrated power steering and even a tiller. Evinrude estimates that the onboard oil tank under the cowling should be good for 50 to 60 hours of use (a normal boating season for most people) and the maintenance interval is as close to zero-maintence as it gets—every five years or 500 hours.

Torqueedo Travel 1103C

While Torqueedo makes big outboards (up to 80-horsepower equivalent), those Deep Blue motors are aimed strictly at billionaires for their yacht tenders and possibly deep-pocketed folks in the import business who might have a use for a silent Zodiac. So while one of those 80-horse motors and its BMW-developed battery pack will run you more than $50,000, the new Travel 1103C starts at $2,699 and could find a home on any boat that weighs less than about 3,300 pounds.

With an onboard 915 Wh lithium battery, the 1103C can run for six hours at half-throttle, which could mean 18 miles of range (it depends on your boat). Besides dingies and sailboats, the Torqueedo would make an intriguing trolling motor or kicker on a small powerboat—it only makes 33 dB of noise and weighs less than 40 pounds. You can even extend your range by charging it with a solar panel while under way.

Yamaha XTO Offshore

Recent years have seen center consoles stretching beyond 50 feet and battle-wagon express boats moving from diesel power to outboards. So Yamaha built an engine designed for 50-plus foot boats, the 425 horsepower XTO Offshore. A 5.6-liter V8 with direct fuel injection, the XTO is a big fella—with its integrated power steering, it can weigh as much as 999 pounds. But that doesn’t stop some builders from hanging five of them on the stern, a setup that was on display on a Scout at the most recent Miami show.

According to Yamaha’s performance report, quad XTOs will push a 41-foot Regulator center console to 63.7 mph. You could also run a single one of these instead of, say, 200-hp twins—a single XTO on a 25-foot Sportsman topped out at 55 mph and got 2.83 mpg at a 29-mph cruise.

Suzuki DF350A

Suzuki is known primarily as a mainstream value brand, but the DF350A shows they’re intent on competing in the high-horsepower game. A big 4.4-liter naturally aspirated V6, the DF350A uses a pair of counter-rotating propellers to increase hookup and negate torque effects. That latter point is extra relevant for single-engine boats, where a DF350A could be an economical choice (both fiscally and in terms of efficiency).

On a Sea Pro 239, the DFA350A pushed the boat to 54.2 mph and got 3.35 mpg at a cruise speed in the high 20s. Quad 350s pushed an aluminum Gaudet 38 to 65.8 mph. Per Suzuki MO, the DF350A offers a lot of horsepower for the money. While MSRP is $31,565, we’ve seen new DF350As advertised for about $24,000.

Ezra Dyer is a Car and Driver senior editor and columnist. He's now based in North Carolina but still remembers how to turn right. He owns a 2009 GEM e4 and once drove 206 mph. Those facts are mutually exclusive.

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Best 6HP Outboard Motors That Will Make You Ready to Go

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Boats continue to influence life in more ways than ever imagined from the dawn of civilization. The watercraft is used for transport, military expeditions, fishing, sports, recreation, and traveling. Traditionally boats were powered by human labor and wind sails.

The water engine has played a huge role in the development of boating in the last century more than anything else. It is now possible for one to sail on a long-distance without knowing the art of rowing as all they need is a water engine.

The outboard is the most popular of all water engines, being used in close to 80% of all boats. The other boat engines are a jet drive engine, a sterndrive engine, and an inboard engine. Outboards are flexible and can be attached to all boat types, from canoes to yachts. There are different types of outboards for varying boat sizes or weight.

The outboard has to be strong, stable and reliable to carry a fully loaded boat. A horsepower is a unit used to measure the strength of an outboard. It is equivalent to 550 pounds per foot per second or 746 watts of energy.

Outboards can range from 1.5HP to astronomical units such as 550HP. A 6HP outboard is suitable for many small boats. This outboard is small and strong to haul small boats and carry goods and many passengers.

How to maintain an Outboard Engine

The longevity of your outboard is pegged on how well you treat it. You have to develop regular and consistent outboard maintenance habits to see your outboard lifecycle exceed its warranty and further.

Poor maintenance leads to engine blockages, dissolving of the fuel tubes, and in the worst cases, accidents due to outboard malfunctions. You can pull out the following maintenance tips after every outing to see your engine stay as viable as a brand new engine.

Regular Flushing

Always flush the engine after every outing. The task of ensuring that your outboard motor is clean is one that should be done after every trip. You have to develop the habit of flushing the engine, whether on a freshwater adventure or a saltwater outing.

Old motors do not have mounts, so you’ve got to buy them a set of flushing “earmuffs.” Connect a garden hose to the mounts or flushing earmuffs, switch on the pump to flush the engine.

Ensure Good Flow in the Pump

Flushing is not the only activity that can increase the tenacity and longevity of the engine. It is a good habit to ensure that there are no blockages using your fingers. Moving your fingers slowly into the water stream while flushing can help diagnose blockages.

When the output is weak during the testing, it is probably because the flow has been obstructed by debris. You can remedy the problem by working a wire into the tube to clear it.

You should always switch off the engine while working the tube. Restart the engine after clearing the tube and confirm the flow in case it is still low; then the water impeller needs changing.

Clean Mechanical components

Mechanical parts need to stay clean to avoid corrosion caused by cold water and, at times, the oil. You should turn off the engine when cleaning mechanical parts to prevent accidents. You can use anti-corrosive on the mechanical parts, especially when you plan to store the outboard.

Disconnect the fuel line before long-term storage

When preparing your boat for long-term storage, disconnect the fuel line. Ensure there is no oil in the carburetor to stop gumming up. You can burn up all the oil in the carburetor before removing the fuel line.

Maintain Functional Spark plugs

Replace the outboard engine’s spark plugs whenever necessary. It is difficult to know how long the spark plugs last, but when you see excessive fuel quantities in the engine or the engine fails to rev up, it is probably the spark plugs. Use a spark plug tester to confirm their functionality.

Use Fresh oil and uncontaminated fuel

Always use fresh oil that the manufacturer recommends. Using contaminated oil can increase grime and impurities in the outboard engine. As you help keep the engine lubricated and clean, also use the right fuel for your outboard.

The fuel should not have any impurities, such as water. Water, for instance, can damage spark plugs and cause other malfunctions.

Avoid using ethanol as a gasoline additive as it is can cause damage to the internal components of the engine. Ethanol often dissolves gaskets, fuel hose, and the seal leading to water intake.,

How to choose An Outboard

Having the right outboard is crucial to ensure you neither underpower nor overpower your water vessel. The horsepower is a significant factor but not the only factor you should look out for when choosing the next outboard for your boat. Each of the factors contributes to the durability of the engine as well as the ease of use.

Stay Within Your Budget

Outboard motors are definitely the cheapest of all water engines though some may cost an arm and a leg to acquire. You have to look for an outboard motor engine that is cost-effective. The engine should have all the necessary features while retailing at a reasonable cost. You have to shop around different outboard motors to get an idea of what you really need and ensure that it is within a reasonable cost.

The type of Engine

There are two main types of outboard engines: two-stroke engines and four-stroke engines. In a two-stroke engine, all the actions of the engine are completed in two strokes of the engine or a single revolution of the crankshaft.

The two-stroke engine weighs less for the same horsepower and is less complex to maintain. It was the preferred engine for those who favor speed, but the four-stroke is catching up.

The four-stroke engine outlasts the two-stroke engine but is heavier. It uses pure fuel rather than oil and fuel mixing as in 2-stroke engine outboards. 4-stroke is relatively quiet compared to its counterparts but has a long shaft that is not suited for small boats.

Fuel Efficiency

The maintenance cost of the outboard goes beyond the repairs and other formulas necessary to the boat. The most consistent cost one has to incur to use an outboard is fuel cost.

Getting an outboard with higher fuel efficiency can save you lots of money in the long run, even when the fuel efficiency is one percent. You can feel the real difference in fuel costs stacks when you use your boat for longer trips than short trips.

Type of Fuel Injection

Fuel injection is how fuel is introduced into the combustion engine to produce energy for your outboard motor. Many of the outboard manufacturers have come up with varied fuel injection technologies; however, the methods are either an enhancement or a mix of the three primary fuel injection methods.

The basic fuel injection techniques are direct fuel injection, electronic fuel injection, carbureted fuel injection, and electronic fuel injection.

Each fuel injection technology has its efficiency; the most efficient fuel injection is direct fuel injection, while the least effective fuel injection is carbureted fuel injection. Direct fuel injection deposits the fuel directly into the engine cylinders that result in an efficient and reliable performance.

Electronic fuel injection uses an electric system to regulate the flow of fuel and air into the system. The carbureted fuel injection system is the cheapest to acquire but the most expensive in the long run.

In the carbureted fuel injection, there is a gadget that controls flows into the cylinder. 

Use of Alternative Fuels

Petroleum oil products are the most common fuels in outboards. Some outboards use petrol, diesel, and so forth. Manufacturers have come up with several fuel alternatives to petrol.

The best attempts are the electric-powered outboards, LPG gas, and propane outboards. Alternative fuel outboards have not gone mainstream as the alternatives are not robust as the petroleum-fueled outboards.

For instance, the electric fueled outboard has the same strength as other outboards, is less noisy, and does not produce any emissions.

However, the weight of the outboard engines and the battery pack combined makes them unsuitable for small boats. The most powerful electric engine can run for a maximum of 6 hours without charge, which makes them less viable.  

The weight of a boat determines the type of outboard. Light dinghies and skiffs will, in practice, carry fewer goods and passengers hence require less power to carry. The weight consideration also depends on the weight of the outboard. The weight of the outboard contributes to the total weight of the goods that have to be carried by boat.

Maintenance Cost

The cost of an overboard is not only its markup price on the shelf but also the cost of repairs the overboard will have on you. o through the 6HP outboard repair review to get a feel for the different problems the outboard motor is likely to have and the probability of taking it to a mechanic for repairs.

Make sure you can access spare parts and mechanics. For this reason, you should purchase popular brands so that you can easily get spares at a low cost.

6HP Outboard Motors

There are many 6HP outboards in the market, especially with most 8HP 2-stroke outboards being demoted to 6HP while the 5HP 4-stroke engines being promoted to 6HP outboards. We have looked and tested several outboards, and the following engines stand out in the pack.

The BF6 is Honda’s best small outboard motor yet carries 1.5 liters of fuel which is more than the 1.1 liters by Mercury Suzuki and Yamaha. The portable fuel tank is the latest feature on a Honda BF6 engine though it is present in all its competitors. The outboard has more power due to an rpm range of 5,000 to 6,000.

New motors come with three accessory props. The fuel-system components are easily accessible on the outboard; the fuel pump and a good size filter are located under the carburetor. You can enjoy automatic decompression from the outboard’s new powerhead that lets you pull the starter cord with just two fingers.

An ECU will reduce the rpm to 2,300 when the oil pressure is low to protect the engine and give the operator some thrust. You will note the downward pressure due to a bright-red low oil pressure warning light on the front of the outboard.

The engines have a swift reaction; hence the motor stops running immediately after the stop button on the front is compressed, unlike the older model that required the operator to hold down the button until the engine halted. There is an increased charge capacity of the alternator from 3 amps to 6 amps.

• Have a larger fuel tank compared to the competition
• The outboard is easy to control and reduces numbness as rubber motor mounts that isolate the inherent vibration
• They work smoothly and silently for a good sailing trip
• They are lightweight and compact for portability
• They have 360° steering that gives it good maneuverability
• The engine has a lean fuel burn that makes it run for long
• They are long-lasting and do not require much maintenance
• It inherits the disadvantages of a 4-stroke engine though it is more polished

Mercury 6HP 6MH

The Mercury 6HP outboard Model is a lightweight outboard with an integrated gas tank at just 57 Lbs. It remains portable and can be carried in the car to the water. You can easily attach the device to any skiff and start sailing. The engine is a single-cylinder four-stroke engine that makes them unique in recreational boating. 

The outboard comes with a user manual, a mercury 3-year warranty, the mercury 4-stroke oil, and a toolkit for repairs. This single-cylinder engine has a gear shift and a tiller steering for easy control.

The shaft is short at only 15 inches, making it easier to use on small boats, unlike most four-stroke outboard engines. One of its key features is an external tank connection. The outboard is perfect for skiffs, sailboats, and Jon boats.

• It has a forward, reverse, and neutral gear on the forward-mounted shift lever 
• The outboard can hit a cruising speed of 16
• It is easy to use and control in the water
• It is silent as a four-stroke engine
• It has a three-year warranty
• It takes time for the outboard to a cold start, but when warm, a single choke is enough
• It uses carbureted fuel injections which are less fuel-efficient

Suzuki DF6AS3

The Suzuki 6 HP outboard is perfect for small water vessels, like dinghies, tenders, Jon boats, and skiffs. The engine has a considerable displacement for a one-cylinder 6 HP outboard engine. It features an external fuel tank connection that allows the user to add an external fuel tank to run for a more extended range.

The motor also features contra-rotating props that cancel out the torque. It is lightweight and integrated with a rounded carrying handle makes it easy to carry.  It has a large displacement of 138cm 3 .

It is user-friendly with an integral fuel tank and new lubricating systems for easy transportation and storage. The tank uses a gravity fuel supply as the overhead tank is placed above the carburetor.

• It is a lightweight engine weighing in at 51.8 pounds
• It has a 3-year warranty that enhances
• It is inexpensive compared to other engines
• It has very high displacement that gives it high speed
• costs a fortune

Yamaha 6 HP Four Stroke

The 6HP portable engines are lightweight, weighing in at 59 pounds with a carrying handle. It has resting pads and an oil-leak prevention system. The outboard has high efficiency and pint-sized power that makes them reliable and durable.

They have a wet-sump, pressurized oil delivery system that integrates a compact oil pump that ensures all moving parts are lubricated and moving smoothly. The feature prevents leaks and enables easy storage.  180° degree steering gives it good maneuverability.

• The tiller handle control has forward, neutral, and reverse shifting and an ergonomic twist-grip throttle
• It is light and easy to carry only weighs 59 pounds
• It has a short shaft with a 15 inches option and a 20-inch option
• It has a 6 amp alternator
• There have been increased cases of engine corrosion

6 HP 4 Stroke NSF 6 Nissan Outboard Motor

The Nissan 6 HP gives the power to lift small watercraft. It has a digital ignition for easier engine starting, quicker throttle, and smoother trolling. The recoil starter with larger reels makes manual starting and suitable in shallow drive, six trim positions, and adjustable steering friction for reduced effort.

The props have a quieter ride, with a thermostatically controlled cooling system. It has a stainless steel water pump housing liner for outstanding durability with high-grade aluminum with protection from corrosion. The plastic fuel tank has a fuel gauge on the cap. It uses aluminum props.

• It is light and compact
• The vibration is low for smooth and stable running speeds
• It has low emission; hence it EPA and CARB approved
• It has a 3-year limited warranty
• It uses a 4-stroke engine
• It has better warning protections
• The boat has a 25 inch that is long for a small outboard

Evinrude E6RG4 6 HP

Evinrude is one of the biggest names in outboard names, making the first viable outboard over a century ago in 1908. The company has increased innovation in the 55 pounds 6 HP outboard. It is a single-cylinder engine that uses carburetor fuel injection.

The device has high maneuverability with a manual and power trim. It uses a steering tiller with a large displacement of 7.5 Cl. The shaft length is 15 inches; hence it is easier to manage and has a 5-year warranty.

Question: How fast will a 6hp outboard go?

Answer: A 6 HP engine is powerful and can have high speeds. Depending on the weight of the boat or whether it is full throttle or half throttle. However, most 6 HP engines’ cruising speed ranges from 12 HP to 20 HP when on full throttle.

Question: How Much Weight Does a 6HP Outboard Carry?

Answer: A six-horsepower engine can haul a minimal weight. Every horsepower can support up to 40 pounds to motor along smooth waters at 20 miles per hour. A six-horsepower outboard can, in theory, carry up to 240 pounds at cruising speed. 

Question: What is the advantage of contra-rotating propellers?

Answer: The use of contra-rotating props helps recover energy lost due to the motion of the air in the slipstream of the forward propeller and allows for an increase in power without a corresponding increase in propeller diameter. It will also help counter the torque effects of a high-power piston engine.

Question: Which is better: 2-stroke or 4-stroke outboard motor?

Answer: An outboard’s efficiency is beyond the type of engine, but on a side-to-side comparison, each engine has the relative merits that make it a suitable choice for an outboard. Four-stroke engines have higher fuel economy, are quiet, have more torque and speed, while two-stroke engines tend to be light and accelerate faster.

The 6 HP outboard is a flexible and robust water engine that can last all weather and season types. It is suited for small watercraft that requires more energy than a smaller horsepower engine would be underpowered, and a higher horsepower engine would overpower. The most suitable of all the 6 HP outboards are the 2-stroke engine outboards.

The Honda BF6 stands out of all the 6 HP engines due to its flexibility with a 360° steering and easy handling. It is the least noisy outboard in the class, a large portable fuel tank, and a high RPM range. The engines have fast reaction times. It is fuel-efficient and can run for long.

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• Sports & Outdoors
• Boating & Sailing
• Boat Motors
• Outboard Motors

Returnable	Yes
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3.6HP 2 Stroke Outboard Motor, Water-Cooled Boat Motor, Manual Start, Heavy Duty Fishing Boat Engine for Small Watercraft, Kayaks, Canoes

Purchase options and add-ons

Brand	BENTFL
Item Weight	21.4 Pounds
Color	Black
Material	Aluminum, Rubber
Engine Type	2 Stroke

About this item

• 【CDI Ignition System】The ignition system of this motor is a CDI ignition system. You can start the motor quickly and safely.
• 【Strong and Durable】Superior outboard anti-corrosion system, cast Nylon plastic construction, and anodes increased the machine's durability.
• 【Independent Fin Streamline Design】When it collides with an object underwater, the design can protect the propeller that is running at high speed.
• 【Easy to Drive】The main rod is made of aluminum so that its lightweight will not increase the entire weight of your boats and the difficulty of driving.
• 【Energy-saving and Money-saving】This outboard adopts an international standard air intake system and compression ratio, which can effectively improve combustion efficiency and thus reduce fuel consumption. It is energy-saving and money-saving.
• 【360 Degree Steering Function】This outboard has a 360 degree steering function that allows you to reverse without shifting gears.

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Product Description

3.6HP 2 Stroke Outboard Motor

Have you encountered any difficulties in venturing into long-distance deep water? An outboard motor that can handle various complex water conditions can provide you with assistance! The powerful 3.6-horsepower two-stroke engine allows you to overcome obstacles in various environmental waters and quickly reach the places you need to go with excellent speed. With its companionship, you can fully enjoy the pleasure of sailing and become a reckless captain!

As an outboard motor, it is relatively small(35.4*15*7.5in) and lightweight(21.4lbs), making it very suitable for small ships and people who frequently navigate short distances. An efficient carburetor burns fuel more fully, with a fuel consumption rate of about 0.3 gal/h not only saving fuel but also reducing expenses.

• Locking Buckle: The locking buckle the anechoic cover allows you to easily open the casing to check the internal motor.
• Tail Plate Clamping Bolt: It can firmly fix the outboard motor on your ship and is not easy to slide.
• Flameout Button: It allows you to immediately stop the machine running and avoid danger in case of an emergency.
• Cooling Water Outlet: You can determine whether the water pump is working properly by checking whether it is producing water, to promptly repair the engine if it may malfunction.

Package Included

• 1*Outboard Motor
• 1*Fuel Oil Mixing Bottle
• 1*Spare Pull Rope
• 1*English Manual

Material	Aluminum Alloy, Rubber
Engine	2-stroke 3.6hp
Displacement	55cc
Max. Speed	4000-5500r/Min
Noise	About 80DB
Ignition System	CDI
Gear Positions	Clutch
Cooling System	Half Water-cooling, Half Air-cooling

Control System	Tiller Control
Gasoline	No.92 Lead-free Gasoline
Fuel Type	Mixed Oil (Run-in Period: 25 Gasoline: 1 2-stroke Engine Oil; after Run-in Period: 50 Gasoline: 1 2-stroke Engine Oil)
Fuel Tank Capacity	1.5L/0.4gal
Fuel Consumption Rate	About 1.1L/0.3gal/h
Propeller Diameter	17cm/6.7in
Joystick Length	41cm/16.14in
Product Size	90*38*18cm/35.4*15*7in

Application

It is suitable for rubber boats, inflatable boats, fishing boats, sailboats, yachts, canoes, kayaks, rubber boats, aluminum alloy boats, etc. with a stern height of 16.53 inches or less, assisting aquaculture, water transportation, net fishing, luring, outboard backup, outings, and river cleaning/maintenance.

• Please start the motor in the water. If the motor stops circulating water, please stop using it immediately and check the impeller of the water pump to see if the water outlet is blocked.
• Please note that this product should use a mixture of two-stroke engine oil and 92 # unleaded gasoline. The running-in period of the new machine is 10 hours, during which the fuel ratio is 25L (6.6 gal) of gasoline to 1L (0.26 gal) of engine oil. After 10 hours, the ratio is 50 liters (13.21 gallons) of gasoline to 1 liter (0.26 gallons) of oil.
• Please do not drive too fast during the running-in period. After the running-in period, the gear oil needs to be replaced, and the second replacement time is about 100 hours or 6 months later.
• Please carefully read the manual and strictly follow the precautions to have a better experience.
• Please measure the height of your boat before purchasing to ensure suitability for this product.
• Please do not leave this product outside until the cooling water is completely used up. Otherwise, water will enter the cylinder through the exhaust port, leading to engine failure. After cruising in seawater or turbid water, please clean the outboard motor with fresh water and cool the water channel with fresh water. The engine should be stored in a dry and well-ventilated place, and avoid direct exposure to sunlight.
• If not in use for a long time, please thoroughly clean the gasoline in the fuel tank.

Product information

Technical details.

Brand	‎BENTFL
Item Weight	‎21.4 Pounds
Color	‎Black
Material	‎Aluminum, Rubber
Engine Type	‎2 Stroke
Operation Mode	‎Manual
Recommended Uses For Product	‎Outdoor
Mounting Type	‎Transom, Engine
Fuel Type	‎Gasoline
Maximum Horsepower	‎3.6 Horsepower
Product Dimensions	‎8.66"D x 14.37"W x 36.22"H
Manufacturer	‎BENTFL
UPC	‎759224577156
Model	‎Outboard Motor
Item Weight	‎21.4 pounds
Country of Origin	‎China
Item model number	‎Boat Motor
Exterior	‎Painted
Manufacturer Part Number	‎LIN4241

Additional Information

ASIN	B0D2KWNYKM
Customer Reviews	5.0 out of 5 stars
Best Sellers Rank	#140,720 in Sports & Outdoors ( ) #165 in
Date First Available	April 24, 2024

Warranty & Support

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What's in the box

• 1*Outboard Motor 1*Tool Kit, 1*Fuel Oil Mixing Bottle, 1*Funnel, 1*Spare Pull Rope, 1*English Manual

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