When it comes to choosing the best outboard motor brand, opinions can vary widely. Visit your local marina and you'll quickly find out that everyone has strong opinions on this topic. However, in today's world, it's hard to go wrong with any of the major outboard engine brands. In the past, outboards were known for being dirty, smelly, and unreliable, but modern four-stroke engine technology has changed the game, making them more pleasant to run and vastly more dependable.
There's no denying that four-stroke gasoline engines have revolutionized the outboard motor market. But the question remains: which outboard motor offers the best value for the money? While the majority of us will opt for a four-stroke, there are exceptions to consider. Despite the tendency to generalize outboard motor brands, there are specific models, horsepower ranges, or platforms where a particular manufacturer stands out from the rest. Each brand has its shining moments, and it's important to consider these factors when making a decision.
Types of Boat Motors for Propulsion
When it comes to boat motors for propulsion, there are several types to consider. Each type has its own unique features and benefits that cater to different needs and preferences. Let's take a closer look at the different types of boat motors available on the market today.
Four-stroke Gasoline Boat Motors
With the majority of gasoline-fueled outboards being four-strokes, they have become the go-to choice for many boaters. From small single-cylinder 2.3 to 2.5-horsepower models to powerful V-12 600-hp models, four-stroke engines offer a smooth and reliable boating experience. Their reduced noise and vibration levels compared to historic two-strokes make them a pleasure to run, and their reliability rivals that of most modern automobiles. Many marine industry professionals consider a four-stroke engine as the best outboard motor due to its overall performance and dependability.
Electric Boat Motors
Electric outboard engines have come a long way in recent years. What used to be limited options have now expanded to include models ranging from under one horsepower to a groundbreaking 300-hp, with even larger models on the horizon. Complete power packages are now available, including specialized batteries, making electric outboards a viable and convenient option. Whether the batteries are integrated with the motor or the boat, the absence of internal combustion sounds, vibrations, and exhaust make electric outboards an attractive choice for many consumers.
Diesel Boat Motors
Although there are only a few diesel outboard manufacturers, their offerings range from 150 to 300-hp. While diesel outboards are larger and heavier compared to other types, their ability to run on diesel instead of gasoline makes them appealing for specific applications. Yacht tenders and military use are common scenarios where diesel outboards are preferred, as they can be refueled by the yacht and offer greater fuel efficiency. Commercial fleets also benefit from the extended range per gallon of fuel that diesel outboards provide, making them a practical choice for certain operations.
Propane Boat Motors
Propane outboard engines experienced a surge in popularity before facing a setback due to reliability issues with some models. However, there are now improved 5-hp propane outboards available on the market, known for their quiet, fume-free operation and the convenience of using propane canisters as fuel. These models have redeemed the reputation of propane outboards and are favored by many boaters for their unique features.
Top Outboard Motor Brands for Power
When it comes to powerful outboard engines, Mercury Marine stands out with its 600-hp Verado, which is the world’s first V-12 outboard engine. This impressive engine generates 100 horsepower more than its closest competitor and weighs 1,260 pounds with a displacement of 7.6 liters. With shaft lengths available up to 35 inches, the V-12 Verado is a force to be reckoned with in the outboard motor world.
Not only does the V-12 Verado pack a punch in terms of power, but it also features a two-speed transmission, making gear shifts imperceptible. In addition, this engine showcases a steerable gearcase, twin contra-rotating propellers, integrated electro-hydraulic steering, and a convenient top hatch for easy maintenance access without having to remove the cowl.
Mercury Racing also makes a mark in the power department with its 500R, derived from Mercury’s 4.6-liter V-8 platform. This model is equipped with a supercharger and upgraded components to handle the increased stresses, setting a new standard for power density while weighing only 720 pounds.
Yamaha's F450 emerges as another heavyweight contender, having been upgraded from the F425. With improved exhaust and intake flow, tweaked cams and valves, and the distinction of being the only direct-injection four-stroke outboard, the F450 delivers exceptional performance. Its unique phased-angle-control charging system produces an impressive 96 amps at idle, with stackable output for multiple engine rigs, eliminating the need for a separate generator to power energy-intensive appliances.
Top Small Outboard Motor Brands
When it comes to small outboard motors, Suzuki Marine stands out as a standout player. Suzuki's DF15A and DF20A models have made a significant impact by introducing the world's first battery-less EFI outboards. The EFI technology not only ensures improved fuel economy and effortless starting with just one pull, but it also addresses the common issues associated with ethanol by eliminating carburetors and sealing the fuel system. This breakthrough has resolved the notorious problems caused by ethanol in small carbureted engines, marking a pivotal advancement in the industry. Suzuki has extended the battery-less EFI feature to its 9.9-hp model and all higher-powered outboards, replacing carburetors across its entire range.
Moreover, Suzuki's small outboard motors come equipped with innovative features such as offset crankshafts, oil-bathed timing chains, and "troll mode" systems that enable precise RPM adjustments in 50 rpm increments. While many competitors focus their efforts on developing larger and more lucrative powerplants, Suzuki has established itself as a frontrunner in the realm of top small outboard motor brands.
Top Electric Outboard Motor Brands
With the recent emergence of many electric outboard manufacturer startups, it's difficult to determine the best electric outboard motor at this point. These new motors have yet to prove their longevity and market survival.
Torqeedo electric outboards have been in the market for a long time and have a lineup ranging from one to 80-hp outboards, proving their reliability over the long term. Additionally, Torqeedo offers integrated battery systems with a wide range of options, including a next-generation 79.2 kWh lithium iron phosphate powerhouse backed by a 10-year capacity warranty. It's uncertain whether any of the newcomers will surpass Torqeedo as the best electric outboard motor in the future.
Evoy is worth mentioning as they are developing a different class of motors with 120- and 300-hp ratings. Vision Marine is also building a 180-hp powertrain powered by a 70 kWh power bank. Time will tell how these motors perform in the real world, but it's noteworthy that Four Winns has collaborated with Vision Marine to build the H2e, an all-electric bowrider model.
It's important to note that as you read this, new electric outboard builders may have emerged, and major companies may have introduced new offerings. For instance, Yamaha now offers its Harmo electric package, sold to boatbuilders, and Mercury recently introduced its first Avator model, a 3.5-hp electric with a drop-in battery, hinting at more electric models to come.
Leading Outboard Motor Manufacturers
When it comes to outboard motor manufacturers, the industry is dominated by a select few companies. These top three brands have a stronghold on the market and include:
Mercury Marine
Mercury Marine is a powerhouse in the industry, known for producing the top two most powerful outboard engines. With a history dating back to 1939, Mercury is headquartered in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, and operates manufacturing facilities across the globe. The company is a part of the Brunswick Corporation.
Suzuki Marine
Although Suzuki Marine is the smallest of the top three in terms of volume, it has been steadily increasing its market share over the years. Suzuki is renowned for the exceptional reliability of its entire engine lineup, earning the company nine National Marine Manufacturers Association Innovation Awards.
Yamaha Outboards
Yamaha Outboards has been a key player since 1960, recognized for the reliability of its V-6 4.2-liter platform. The company has also made strides in developing comprehensive power and control systems, going beyond just engines with innovations like the Helm Master joystick.