Best outboard motors in 2020

Buying and identifying with an outboard motor is a difficult task, since you need to determine the type of the unit itself, its power, control method and other characteristics. You should definitely buy high-quality and reliable equipment that would not cause problems on the water.

The review selected the best outboard motors in 2020 with different parameters from cheap to luxury models. For the convenience of studying the characteristics, the rating is divided into several segments, in each of which the best units are selected.

Selection rules

When deciding which boat motor is better, the main characteristics and some specific features are taken into account, which must be known and taken into account. The wizards highlight a number of parameters. One of the main will be the type of motor. Boat units can be:

• Electric - are often used in Europe and the USA, in the Russian Federation they began to be in demand not so long ago. The main advantages in silent operation are environmental friendliness, cost, but you will need to additionally buy a battery and a charger.
• Gasoline - a standard engine, which, with the help of fuel combustion, starts the rotation of the propeller and the movement of the boat. They are divided into two- and four-stroke. The former are distinguished by their constructive simplicity, they are inexpensive and ergonomic, but in terms of operation they will lose to four-stroke ones. As a result of their design, they are more reliable, they can work in dirty water, with low-quality fuel. The second option is structurally more complicated, more modern, but less reliable. True, its environmental friendliness and power is higher.

In addition to the type of motors, other selection features should be highlighted:

• Power is an indicator that directly depends on the size and weight of the boat, the number of people in the boat. For example, for 1-2 people without heavy equipment, models up to 5 hp will be enough. These devices are suitable for short distances. If there are up to 3 people in the boat and a little cargo, then 10 hp will do. A long voyage with full ammunition assumes the purchase of a 20-25 hp motor. and more. Such units will be able to carry 8 people at once.
• Dimensions - these should be comparable to the boat itself. If you choose the wrong model, then there is a risk of creating a large angle of inclination of the rear of the boat, and in this case the comfort on board immediately disappears. For small boats, compact units with a tank up to 2 liters are selected.
• The propeller immersion depth is an important characteristic of outboard motors, on which the duration of the equipment operation, the rationality of power use and other factors depend. It is important to consider the height of the boat and the depth of the dive.
• Type of control system - there are remote and direct models. The first model is suitable for long boats, where the rudder is placed in the middle of the side. The second option is tiller control. This allows the unit to be rotated mechanically.The type itself is more reliable, suitable for medium and small sized boats with a need for short movement on the water.
• The brand is not the most important parameter when choosing, but it should also be looked at. Beginners are encouraged to buy options from leaders in the global market, and experienced people will find Russian or Chinese models suitable, but you should also pay attention to proven brands.

In the case of buying an engine that has been in use, it is important to check the general condition, operation of the unit, or take 3-5 days for running-in and checking directly in action. It is best, of course, to buy new products, they come with a guarantee and you can be sure of trouble-free operation. If there is no money, you can choose the best Chinese outboard motor at an affordable price or postpone the purchase for a while, during which it will be possible to collect some of the funds.

Best outboard motor manufacturers

At the moment, gasoline units are very popular, not electric ones. There are many manufacturers on the market, among which there are clear leaders all over the world. Based on this, you should know the best companies that offer high quality outboard motors:

• TOHATSU is a Japanese company that has characterized itself at its best over the past few years. The products are of very high quality, each motor is tested at the factory before being sold. The models are small in size, weight and at the same time quite powerful.
• YAMAHA MOTOR is the largest manufacturer in the world that makes engines for boats. The company is located in Japan and has an ideal reputation. All products are of very high quality, reliable, with excellent technical parameters. The line includes 7 main types of motors with over 200 modifications.
• HONDA is another well-known global market leader, which is located in Japan and is of high quality. All products emit a minimum amount of waste into the atmosphere as there are strict requirements on this issue. The engines run quietly regardless of speed, they are economical, there is a necessary safety system that indicates oil pressure, overheating and other emergency situations. 4-stroke models consume less fuel than 2-stroke models. In the Russian Federation, the product from this manufacturer is the cheapest among Japanese competitors.
• SUZUKI - equipment with impeccable Japanese quality and only a few models have already begun to be assembled in Thailand, among them DT2.2, DF4,5,6. For them, all parts and elements are supplied from Japan.
• MERCURY - the company is located in America, makes outboard motors with different powers and other characteristics. The brand is proven, the products are reliable, small in size, consume little fuel and differ in dynamics during operation. There are products to choose from for beginners and professionals.

Knowing the selection criteria and TOP manufacturers, you can proceed to the direct consideration of the engine rating, which will simplify the task and the choice of which boat motor is better to buy for certain purposes.

Best 5hp 2-stroke outboard motors

Such devices are characterized by low power and are in great demand among amateurs in the field of hunting or fishing. They are easy to operate, they have a low weight, which allows them to be transported without assistance. In addition, 2-stroke models are fuel efficient and affordable for many.

YAMAHA 5CMH

Single-cylinder device that is easy to start and quickly picks up the desired speed. The model is very popular on the market, is in great demand and can be considered the most reliable in a difficult climate.

Pros:

• Low consumption of gasoline.
• Excellent dynamics and throttle response.
• Gasoline tank 2.8 l.
• It is possible to use a remote fuel tank of 12 liters.
• Very high quality propeller with 3 blades.
• Front, rear and neutral gear.
• You can drive in reverse without turning.
• Stable performance regardless of speed.
• A reliable tiller is used for control.
• Manual start, which activates the unit at half a turn.
• High build quality.
• A high degree of reliability, which allows the model to be used over long distances.

The main disadvantage is the high cost of the product.

TOHATSU M 5B DS

Single cylinder model from a popular manufacturer, with light weight, dimensions and good fuel economy. Perfect for those who like walking on wide rivers. Despite its small size, the 5 hp unit with an internal 2 liter petrol tank. For long-distance swims, an external 12.5 liter tank can be installed. Average fuel consumption is 1.8 liters per hour.

3-speed gearbox, smart start-up protection when in gear, which helps increase safety for the unit itself and the people in the boat. Manufacturers also added a safety hummock, with which you can perform an emergency stop of the equipment. The equipment has no unique parameters, the craftsmen can independently make repairs and the necessary maintenance. It can be considered the best outboard motor in its class.

Pros:

• Economical fuel consumption.
• Built-in tank.
• Gearbox with steps.
• Improved carburetor.
• Electronic ignition.
• Quick and easy start-up regardless of weather conditions.
• Suitable even for narrow and shallow rivers, as there are 6 sloping positions.
• Rugged, corrosion-resistant aluminum housing.
• Excellent value for money.

Minuses:

• It is necessary to fill in only high-quality fuel not lower than AI-92.
• During start-up and warm-up, uneven operation of the internal combustion engine is possible.

MERCURY 5M

This variant is considered the lightest among all 2-stroke variants. It is very popular among consumers because it implements the latest achievements and solutions.

Pros:

• The device weighs only 20 kg.
• Manual start, which is highly reliable.
• Uses a tiller for control.
• Built-in 2.5 liter gas tank.
• Possibility of connecting an external fuel tank for 12 liters.
• Fixing the engine with a transom clamp.
• Exhaust is done through a screw hub, which reduces noise.
• Reliable protection of the gearbox with a rubber shock absorber.
• A quick set of speed.
• Parts have anti-corrosion coating.

The main disadvantage is the manual lifting of the deadwood.

Rating of the best 2-stroke engines with a power of 15-20 hp

Such units are in demand among professionals and people who need to cover long distances with full equipment. They are hardy, with a sufficient supply of fuel tank, quickly pick up speed, and due to their power they can carry large loads.

YAMAHA 15 FMHS

This model is the best selling model. The product has a lot of positive reviews due to its high quality and operational capabilities. A good option for people who like fishing and long distance travel at high speed.

Pros:

• Economical fuel consumption.
• Excellent weight / power ratio. The mass of the device is 36 kg with a power of 15 hp.
• Tiller control.
• Electronic ignition.
• Simple and reliable operation.
• You can quickly increase your cravings.
• Under maximum load, the peak speed is 36 km / h.
• Minimal noise and vibration levels.

Minuses:

• The cost of the goods is too high.
• No carry handle.

TOHATSU M 18E2 S

A two-stroke model from a Japanese manufacturer characterized by reliable design and speed. The body is very high quality made, covered with an anti-corrosion layer for additional protection. The engine is quite powerful and suitable for maximum loads.

Pros:

• Excellent weight-to-power ratio.
• Low fuel consumption.
• Electronic ignition.
• Overheating protection.
• A speed limiter is installed to prolong the life of the unit.
• Powerful stainless steel pump.
• External tank for gasoline 25 liters.
• High quality aluminum screw.
• If there are 2 people in the boat, then the maximum speed will be 60 km / h.
• High quality.

Minuses:

• Noisy during operation and switching of the motor.
• Overpriced.

NISSAN MARINE NS 15 D2 1

This is the best outboard motor with increased power, which is very convenient to operate. It is created from the finest raw materials. Due to the materials of the body and the main units of the motor, it can be used for almost any conditions, so the internal combustion engine is suitable for seas and rivers. Total power 15 HP

Pros:

• Low fuel consumption.
• Starting the device using electronic ignition.
• The presence of 3 steps on the gearbox.
• The change of speeds is made by a convenient handle on the motor housing, which is located on the side.
• High degree of reliability, even in harsh weather and other conditions.
• Possibility to use the unit for rivers with shallow depth.
• External fuel tank for 25 liters.
• Supplied from the manufacturer with a set of tools for engine maintenance and repair.
• Excellent value for money, quality and simple design.

Among the shortcomings, only the mass of the unit is distinguished, which reaches 41 kg.

Ranking of the best electric boat motors

Electric motors for boats are just beginning to be in demand in Russia, but they are actively used in Europe and America. Such units are characterized by an affordable price, if you do not take into account batteries and chargers. They are environmentally friendly and quiet in their work with good technical indicators.

HDX 86X

Hondex has recently started producing electric motors for boats. One of the best recent developments is the HDX 86X, which has 1.2 hp. The device is equipped with water cooling, its weight is 13.2 kg, which makes it easy to transport it even on your own. The device is suitable for vessels whose total weight with people will not exceed 1400 kg. In this case, there will be up to 38 kg of thrust at the peak.

Compared to the equally popular version from Minn Kota Endura C2 30, this device will require current from the battery at a maximum speed and load of 84 amperes. As a result, the acceleration is fast, and the maximum speed of the vessel will be 15 km / h, but this figure is not stable, since it depends on the total weight of the boat. The main disadvantage is in the package bundle, since the battery needs to be purchased separately. To be able to move through the water for a long time, the manufacturer recommends buying batteries from 100 Ah. All this negatively affects the bottom line, but the quality and capabilities of the unit are worth it.

pros:

• The total motor power is 1.2 HP.
• Quite quiet operation of the device with a 2-blade propeller and a complete absence of an exhaust system.
• Can be installed on boats with curb weight up to 1400 kg and transom height up to 920 mm.
• Good value for money.

Minuses:

• The need to buy a rechargeable battery, which is quite expensive.
• When driving on water, you need to provide a place for the battery.

Minn kota endura c2

This model is an excellent alternative for gasoline engines. Such a device is suitable for small rubber-type boats, as well as slow pleasure boats or fishermen. The model was made with the aim of making a compact motor and it worked perfectly. Despite its small size, the design is very good and functional.

On board there is a propeller with 2 blades, which easily passes the terrain with algae, and in case of stuck, you can easily get out with the reverse, however, the rotational speed is low, so the acceleration of the vessel will be up to 5 km / h. This is the peak figure for the forward travel in the highest gear. With such characteristics, the device consumes 30 amperes. Based on the opinions of consumers, the boat engine and additional equipment are very easy to transport in the luggage compartment of a car.The device weighs only 7 kg, but it is recommended to use a 100 Ah battery for power supply, so the weight will immediately increase. The operation, like other electric models, is silent and there is no exhaust to water or atmosphere.

pros:

• Almost no noise during operation.
• There is no exhaust system.
• Small overall dimensions and weight of the device.
• Possibility of transportation in a car, in the trunk.
• High-quality assembly and design itself.
• Affordable cost.

Minuses:

• You will have to install and find a place for the battery in the boat.
• Very low speed on water, which reaches 5 km / h.

Ranking of the highest quality Chinese boat engines

Many people are used to thinking that Chinese products and manufacturers are making poor quality products. Among the various brands and products, you can find good internal combustion engines for boats, and which Chinese outboard motor is the best, the rating presented below will help determine.

Golfstream T15ВМS

A very high-quality analogue of a 15 hp motor. from the manufacturer Mercury. Due to the Chinese production, the price of the unit is significantly lower than that of the original model. The working volume is 246 cubes, which is divided into 2 cylinders of 56 mm. The mass of the entire device turns out to be almost 38 kg, which is quite a lot for self-transportation. Part of the weight is taken up by the gasoline tank, which is 24 liters. This is a very good indicator, so there will be enough fuel for a very long journey along rivers or seas.

Fuel consumption per hour is up to a maximum of 8 liters. This will be at maximum speed and load on the motor. In such a situation, the power reserve will be only 2-3 hours.

The main calculation in the manufacture of such a model was done for ships whose transoms will be 381 mm each, but if certain work is done, the engine will be on a ship with a transom height of 508 mm. The movement is controlled using a tiller, so remote control is excluded, but it does not harm emotions and exploitation. According to the manufacturer, all models released for the Russian market undergo a separate tuning of the fuel system, which is typical for fuel in the country. But many customers and specialists are sure that this is just an advertisement, and after the purchase, you need to do the setup again.

pros:

• Excellent power ratings that, when paired with a large gas tank, allow for extended sailing, hunting or fishing.
• Affordable cost.
• Excellent build quality and all engine components.
• The unit can be installed at different transom heights, namely 381 and 508 mm.

The main drawback is the lack of additional options and functions.

HANGKAI M3.5HP

This is an inexpensive unit that includes 49 cubes, with a capacity of 3.5 hp. The model can hardly be called the best in terms of its quality, but stable operation without breakdowns and other problems is possible for 3 or more years. After this period, it will be necessary to carry out scheduled maintenance, repair work and replacement of certain components, but much depends on the frequency of operation and conditions.

An option has been created for small rubber-type vessels, and the power itself and the main technical parameters are designed for 1-2 people in the boat. Transom height 381 mm. Positive aspects, according to customers, can be considered the small dimensions of the device, the engine weight of 9.6 kg, as well as the built-in 1.3-liter petrol tank. With economical fuel consumption, the power reserve will be provided for 4-5 hours. For a small cost, the buyer will not be able to get certain options, among which there are forced shutdown of the motor, an indicator showing oil pressure and other functional elements. But all this has a positive effect on the reliability and simplicity of the design, which is maintainable.

pros:

• Low fuel consumption.
• High degree of reliability due to simplified design.
• A very affordable price that will delight any client.

Minuses:

• Insufficient power.
• The engine is designed only for small inflatable boats.
• Not the best build quality.

Sea-Pro OTH9.9S

One of the leaders among the goods from the Chinese manufacturer Sea-Pro. The model is considered the best copy of the 2-stroke engine on boats, which has a power of 9.9 hp. from the Yamaha brand. Many consumers leave laudatory reviews for the product, since it is a good analogue at an affordable price than Japanese models. Moreover, the main characteristics, maneuverability are no worse.

The very first thing that can be distinguished is the optimal consumption of gasoline, which will be in the region of 5 liters per 1 hour of operation, subject to peak speeds with increased revs. In addition, the engine is capable of accelerating to 35 km / h when the vessel is fully equipped and taking into account its own weight of 36 kg. Tiller type control. The internal gas tank is 12 liters, the launch of the apparatus is manual, and fishermen and hunters can also walk in shallow water sectors. In general, the described model has proven itself very well and, with timely, proper maintenance, will work for many years.

pros:

• The optimal price in comparison with the models of well-known manufacturers from Japan.
• Low fuel consumption, about 5 l / h.
• High build quality.
• An excellent indicator of structural reliability.
• Can be used for shallow areas.

No obvious disadvantages have been identified.

Rating of the best four-stroke outboard motors

Such units are characterized by their power, the use of more modern techniques for walking on the sea or rivers. An overview of the options will determine the best 5-stroke outboard motor of 2020.

Mercury ME F 5 M

A product from an American manufacturer at a price of almost 68,000 rubles. This option is characterized by the smallest gas tank, which can only hold a liter of fuel, which is very small for a 123 cc unit. Such a supply will be sufficient for a short swim in the reservoir. To solve this problem, the manufacturer proposes to use an external tank of 12 liters, but in this case the cost is even higher and for such money it will be possible to buy internal combustion engines from trusted Japanese brands that have richer equipment.

The main advantage of this model is the possibility of using the device at a shallow depth, when it is necessary to make strong rolls to lift the propeller. In this case, the efficiency is almost not reduced, and the motor will not heat up. The exhaust system is made in such a way that all emissions go directly to the atmosphere, and not to water, which turns out to be a little noisier.

pros:

• Good for shallow depths.
• Recommended for fishing and hunting.
• Good quality, anti-corrosion coating.

Minuses:

• Very small gas tank volume.
• High price.
• Poor equipment.

Toyama TM5FS

Not a bad option for a 4-stroke engine with a power of 5 hp. and cost about 45,000 rubles. If we compare it with its 2-stroke counterparts, the model is heavier, which affected the dynamics. This model is designed to sail short distances with a minimum of time. The capacity for gasoline is 1.1 liters, which is considered a very small figure.

pros:

• Nice build.
• Maintainability.

Minuses:

• Very small fuel tank.
• High price.

HDX F 5 BMS

A Chinese manufacturer that, unlike many others, offers quality boat motors at an affordable price. The cost of this unit ranges from 17,000 rubles. The device works quite quietly, consumes little fuel, but the dimensions themselves are quite large. The internal tank is only 1.3 liters, while the 112cc internal combustion engine will have sufficient headroom for movement. It is worth highlighting the good torque value at low revs. Due to this, it is much easier to move at low speed with a large load of the vessel, and in the case of acceleration, there are no problems. Stable acceleration and maintaining speed can be up to 25 km / h, which is for a power of 5 hp. pretty good indicator.

The device, in case of need for repair work, will be very simple, comparable to the motors that are in cultivators.It is worth noting that the product is not the best for hunting from a boat, since there are risks of clogging the water intake, and at a shallow depth and dirty water, silt will begin to rise from the bottom. It is best to buy a unit for fishing and the use of internal combustion engines in clean water.

pros:

• Affordable price.
• Economical fuel consumption.
• Simple maintenance.
• Quiet work.
• Excellent dynamic performance.

Minuses:

• Large overall dimensions.
• Small internal gas tank.

Knowing the features of different options, you can select the 10 best outboard motors, write down your own needs, the number of people, the weight of the equipment and the size of the boat. After that, it will be easier to decide, and even simplify the task of understanding the allocated budget for the purchase of the engine.