Outboard boat motors are the go-to propulsion for many water sports, from fishing to water skiing to wakeboarding. An outboard motor provides more torque and speed than an inboard boat motor, and can be easily removed for storage, transport and repairs. To help you find the best outboard boat motors for your needs, we’ve turned to reviews from real customers on Amazon who have purchased and used these products for themselves. These best-selling items not only have near-perfect ratings, but they also have countless glowing reviews describing why they’re so great.
Read on for the rest of the best outboard boat motors on the market, according to customer reviews.
Our Editor’s Best Outboard Boat Motors Reviews
Bestseller No. 1
BJTDLLX Short Shaft Outboard Motor, 2 Stroke 12 HP Outboard Boat Motor, 169CC Heavy Duty Fishing Boat Engine Marine Engine Tiller Control Motor with Water Cooling & CDI Ignition System
- 【2-stroke 12HP Outboard Motor】The 5500 rpm 2-stroke 12 hp boat motor can provide 661-1763 pounds of thrust and 8-30 kilometers per hour speed, providing you with a comfortable and labor-saving sailing experience. The water cooling system helps to cool the motor and has better performance. The design of the vent can also extend its service life.
- 【High Quality Aluminum】The 2-stroke 12 hp outboard engine is made of high-quality aluminum, which is resistant to fracture, corrosion, acid, and deformation, making it suitable for use in water. The outboard engine is suitable for small ships with a length of 19.69 feet and a weight of less than 661 pounds, such as inflatable boats, iron boats, plastic boats, fiberglass boats, and wooden boats.
- 【Multi Speed Cruise】Outboard motor have three continuously variable transmission gears: forward, neutral, and reverse. You can also cruise at a constant speed to enjoy different cruising experiences according to your needs. Due to the simple structure and complete accessories of the outboard engine, you can easily install it on your ship and have a more comfortable sailing experience.
- 【Easy to Use】The CDI ignition device and manual start enable you to start quickly and safely. The flameout switch on the handle allows you to stop the engine with one click. The equipped silencer brings you a quieter sailing experience. The 6.34Gal external fuel tank saves you the trouble of frequent refueling.
- 【Gear Oil Filling Method】There is a screw on the gear box, unscrew the screw to add gear oil. Each outboard engine is filled with gear oil before leaving the factory, so it does not need to be refilled for the first time. After that, add it according to personal use and check it every ten hours. Reminder: The oil must be two-stroke special oil.
Bestseller No. 2
4 Stroke 7.5HP Outboard Motor 200CC Boat Engine Hand-pull Start Single Cylinders Boat Motor CDI Ignition & Air-cooled Gas Outboard Motors 16.53 Lbs for 13.12-19.69ft Boats
- Strong Power: The 4-stroke engine (3600 rpm) outboard motor with a maximum power of 3.5 kW provides you with strong power, allowing you to drive fast and save a lot of time and energy.
- Stable&Comfortable Driving: The boat motor with continuously variable transmission design allows for continuous gear shifting without the feeling of getting stuck during the shift, making driving smoother and more comfortable.
- Good Heat Dissipation: Multiple dissipation holes on the housing dissipate heat quickly to prevent it from burning out after a long time of use. Meanwhile, the air-cooling system can speed up the cooling speed and reduce the failure rate.
- Flexible Steering: This boat engine has a 360-degree steering function and a clutch control function, which makes it easy to control the steering of the boat, so it can handle special water environment.
- Build to Last: This small outboard motor is made of high-quality aluminum with high hardness, wear resistance, anti-rust properties, and long service life.
Bestseller No. 3
Cbhfmljd 2 Stroke 40 HP Outboard Motor, Long Shaft 703CC Heavy Duty Hangkai Outboard Motor Boat Engine Boat Motor Trolling Motor Fishing Boat Engine with Water Cooling & CDI Ignition System
- 【Durable】Boat motor mainly made of high quality aluminium and treated with plastic spraying process, which makes it has good hardness and corrosion resistance for long-term use. Simply twist the handle to adjust the speed. The red button on the handle is used for switching off the engine. In addition, the left and right moving brackets can be operated flexibly to meet different needs.
- 【Powerful】40 hp, 703cc displacement, maximum speed up to 4500-5500 rpm. 4500-5500 rpm to power your boat and make your sailing easier. Plus, with speeds of 18.64-21.75 mph and low energy consumption, you'll have an efficient, quiet experience. The three-blade propeller has a streamlined design that reduces water resistance and provides more power during operation.
- 【Good Heat Dissipation】Uniformly distributed cooling holes on the body and water cooling function can effectively help the outboard motor to dissipate heat, which makes the operation smoother and improves the safety of users. The ergonomic handle provides you with a more comfortable feel and use experience. Fuel tank capacity of up to 6.34 gallons eliminates the need for frequent fuel refills.
- 【Performance】The 60-degree tilt function, CDI ignition system, and shift handle for reverse gear make it easy to control and adjust forward direction. Suitable for 13.12-19.69 feet long boats, such as fishing boats, wooden boats, plastic boats, iron boats, logging boats and inflatable boats, which can be used for fishing, aquaculture, outdoor adventure, surfing, life-saving and other activities.
- 【Easy to Install】The motor has a simple structure and can be installed on the circuit board without any tools, which is very time-saving and convenient. You can fix it on the outside of the boat with screws without taking up too much space. Thanks to its practicality, you can give boat engine to your family and friends, as well as to people who enjoy sailing and fishing.
Bestseller No. 4
40 HP 2 Stroke Outboard Motor 703cc Fishing Boat Water Cooling Gasoline Long Shaft Heavy Duty Outboard Engine CDI Ignition System for Fishing Boat, Motorboat and Inflatable Boat
- Powerful 40HP Performance: Experience smooth and strong propulsion with this 40HP 2-stroke outboard motor. Its 703cc displacement and CDI ignition system deliver reliable power for fishing, cruising, or adventure, reaching speeds up to 21.75 mph—perfect for boats 13–20 ft long.
- Efficient Water Cooling System: Stay cool under pressure with the advanced water cooling design. Uniform cooling holes and steady heat dissipation ensure safer and quieter operation, making every trip enjoyable and worry-free even during extended use.
- Easy Installation & Portable Design: Get on the water faster with a tool-free mounting system. This compact motor fits snugly on your boat without taking up space. Measuring 29.13” x 53.54”, it’s built for convenience and easy storage.
- Large 6.34-Gallon Fuel Tank: Spend more time boating and less time refueling. The generous fuel capacity reduces interruptions, ideal for long fishing sessions or peaceful cruises without frequent stops.
- Durable & Low-Maintenance Build: Crafted with corrosion-resistant aluminum and a plastic-sprayed finish, this motor stands up to harsh marine environments. Weighs 117.95 lbs and includes a three-blade propeller for reduced drag and improved efficiency.
Bestseller No. 5
BJTDLLX Outboard Boat Motors, 2 Stroke 18HP Outboard Motor Boat Motor, 246CC Heavy Duty Fishing Boat Engine Marine Engine with CDI Ignition System Water Cooling System, 40CM/16inch Short Shaft
- 【2-stroke 18HP Outboard Motor】displacement: 246CC; short shaft: 40cm; gear ratio: 2.08 (27:13); cylinder: 2; maximum output power (kw): 13.2; maximum speed (r/min): 5000 -6000; gear position: FNR; ignition system: CDI; cooling system: water cooling; control system: tiller control; starting system: manual start.
- 【Advantages】Outboard engine adopts water-cooling technology, which greatly improves the reliability. The outboard engine supports 360 degree steering rotation and reverses without shifting gears. Meanwhile, we also provide you with a 24L standard fuel tank capacity.
- 【Widely Used】The outboard engine is ideal for inflatable boats, fishing boats, sailboats and small yachts. If you have any questions during use, please contact us directly.
- 【Reminder】The oil must be two-stroke special oil. The two kinds of oil must be mixed evenly; after use, the fuel in the carburetor must be completely drained. Mixing ratio: fuel: oil = 50:1.
- 【Gear Oil Filling Method】There is a screw on the gear box, unscrew the screw to add gear oil. Each outboard engine is filled with gear oil before leaving the factory, so it does not need to be refilled for the first time. After that, add it according to personal use and check it every ten hours.
Bestseller No. 6
LIWBYYG 169CC Outboard Motor, 2 Stroke 12HP Boat Motor Engine Heavy Duty Outboard Boat Motor Engine Short Shaft Boats Motors with Water Cooling & CDI Ignition System for Rubber Boats
- 【Sturdy and Durable】This 169cc outboard motor is made of high-quality aluminum alloy, combined with anti-corrosion paint technology, and has heat-resistant and impact-resistant properties. Double-layer foam + carton protective packaging effectively resists transportation impact, the stern plate clamping bolts (applicable to ≤17.32 inches) firmly lock the hull, and the locking handle is convenient for opening the cover to repair the motor at any time.
- 【Violent Power】This 2 stroke 12hp boat motor engine is equipped with a two-stroke 12-horsepower engine, and the streamlined design of the three-blade propeller reduces water resistance by 30%, achieving 8-30km/h high-speed sailing. The cdi ignition system consumes only 1.18 gallons of fuel per hour, and the 6.34-gallon external fuel tank reduces the frequency of refueling, and the energy-saving performance is 35% better than similar products.
- 【Intelligent Cruise】This heavy duty outboard boat motor engine uses a rubber non-slip throttle handle to switch between forward/neutral/reverse gears, and can freely choose between stepless speed change and cruise control. The suspension tilt adjustment pin optimizes the sailing posture in real time, the sound-absorbing material built into the silencer reduces the operating noise, and the ergonomic design allows you to operate for a long time without fatigue.
- 【Triple Protection】This short shaft boat motor with water cooling & cdi ignition system is equipped with a water cooling system to extend the life of the engine, and the cooling water outlet monitors the working condition of the water pump in real time. The anti-vortex plate suppresses turbulence and reduces the risk of rollover. The emergency flameout pull rope can be powered off with one button, and it is matched with the stern fixing bolt and suspension adjustment pin.
- 【All-Round Adaptability】This 12 hp outboard motor has a simple structure and complete accessories, and can be quickly installed on wooden boats, iron boats and other ship types in 20 minutes. Its industrial-grade performance meets the needs of aquaculture and river exploration, and the filter ensures smooth operation in complex waters, providing reliable power solutions from offshore fishing to outdoor adventures.
Bestseller No. 7
LIWBYYG 2 Stroke 18HP Outboard Motor, 246CC Fishing Boat Kayak Engine Heavy Duty Fishing Boat Engine Outboard Motor Kit with Water Cooling System & CDI Ignition(5500RPM)
- 【Selected Materials】This boat motor is made of lightweight and sturdy aluminum alloy, combined with spray painting technology, providing excellent heat resistance, impact resistance, and deformation resistance. Whether it is fresh water or salt water, you can use it with peace of mind. And the large muffler above it can isolate most of the noise, making the machine running sound around 80 decibels, so that you can clearly hear other movements on the water surface and stay alert.
- 【Fast And Powerful】This outboard motor is equipped with a two-stroke engine with a maximum output of 13.2 kW, a maximum output of 18 horsepower, and a maximum speed of 5500 rpm, providing you with unparalleled speed. The streamlined 8-inch three-blade propeller can reduce water resistance and provide stronger power during sailing. And its tail plate clamping bolt can firmly fix the outboard engine on the boat and is not easy to slide.
- 【Safety And Peace Of Mind】This motor is equipped with a reliable CDI ignition system to quickly and safely start the engine, and the suspension tilt adjustment pin and anti-vortex plate can reduce tilt and vortex to ensure smooth operation. The water cooling system is designed to maintain the optimal temperature and is equipped with an overheating protection function so that you can continue to enjoy the fun of sailing. And its rubber-wrapped handle is softer and provides a more reliable grip.
- 【Convenient And Fuel-Saving】The throttle lever of this mud motor kit directly controls acceleration and steering. The stepless speed regulation function allows you to easily adjust the operating speed, with simple gear shifting (forward, neutral or reverse). The engine's external fuel tank can hold 6.34 gallons of fuel and support long-term operation. The efficient carburetor allows for more complete fuel combustion, fuel consumption as low as 1.18 gallons per hour, and can reduce costs.
- 【Wide Application】This 18hp outboard motor is suitable for rubber boats, inflatable boats, fishing boats, sailboats, yachts, canoes, kayaks, aluminum alloy boats, etc. with a stern height of no more than 17.32 inches, helping aquaculture, water transportation, netting, trapping, outboard engine backup, outings, and river cleaning/maintenance.
Bestseller No. 8
ExGizmo Outboard Boat Motor Stand,165LB Load Outboard Motor Carrier Multi Purposed Portable Boat Motor Engine Trolley for Repair,Maintenance,Storage
- High Quality Material:Our boat engine cart was made of heavy duty metal with sturdy triangle construction,comfortable moulded rubber grips, durable and strong,black EDC treated steel frame.
- Eonvenientto Move:The outboard motor stand with 2 wheels,wich allow you move your boat motor will be easier,ergonomic soft-grip handle.
- 165LBS Weight Capacity:The outboard motor engine trolley stand can hold up to 165Lbs,is great for moving boat engines up to 30 HP for maintenance and repair.
- Easy to Assemble:This trolley stand comes packed with all nuts and bolts included and only takes a few minutes to assemble. It is conveniently folds down when not in use and fits comfortably in a car boot.
- Good For Transporting:This outboard motor stand is ideal for transporting outboard motors, even over longer distances, this outboard motor trolley stand will save you hassle and protect your back.
Bestseller No. 9
2 Stroke 18 HP Outboard Boat Motor, 246CC Short Shaft Outboard Motor Boat Engine, Heavy Duty Inflatable Fishing Boats Engines with Water Cooling CDI System
- 【Powerful Engine】The heavy duty outboard marine engine is a two-stroke 18 hp engine, equipped with superior engine water cooling system and excellent carbonization system, which can overcome huge water resistance, improve driving speed and increase efficiency. It is suitable for various styles of small water transportation, such as kayak, canoe, rubber boat, inflatable boat and so on.
- 【Main Parameters】Displacement: 246cc, Short Shaft: 40cm, Gear Ratio: 2.08(27:13), Cylinder Number: 2, Maximum Speed (r/min): 5000-6000, Gear Position: F-N-R: F-N-R, Packing Dimension: 133x71x38.5 cm Ignition System: CDI, Cooling System: Water-cooled CDI, Cooling System: Water-cooled,... Control system: rudder control Tractor control, Starting system: manual start. Net/Gross weight (kg) 38.6/49.5,Bore x Stroke (mm): 56x50
- 【Detailed Description】Control System: #92 unleaded gasoline; Net/Gross Weight (kg): 27/31 27/31; Cylinder Bore x Stroke (mm): 50x43; Recommended Propeller Range: 3 -9"1/4''x8"; Recommended Lubrication: 2-stroke lubrication oil; Mixing Ratio: Fuel: Oil = 50:1; Adjustment and Tilting System: Manual tilting. Standard Fuel Tank Capacity: 24L.
- 【CDI Ignition System】The ignition system of this outboard boat motors is CDI ignition system. You can start the engine quickly and safely. It saves time and is easy to use. There are engine vents on the engine casing. They help to dissipate heat in time, protect the machine, improve efficiency and prolong service life.
- 【360 Degree Steering Function】The boat motor has a 360-degree steering function, which makes it easy to reverse without shifting gears. The propeller adopts inline design, which, together with the high-speed engine, can more effectively utilize the exhaust and thrust of the outboard.
Bestseller No. 10
4 Stroke 9HP Outboard Motor, 225CC Heavy Duty Long Shaft Fishing Boat Engine Marine Engine w/Air Cooling&TCI Ignition, Gas Powered Outboard Boat Motor for Fishing, Aquaculture, Outdoor Adventure
- 【High-quality Material】: High-quality aluminum alloy, combined with spray molding technology, has excellent wear resistance, heat resistance, impact resistance, deformation resistance, and other properties. You can use it in water with confidence.
- 【Outstanding Performance】: The 4-stroke OHV engine with 3800r/min can provide a speed of 15km/h to give you a comfortable and labor-saving sailing experience. In addition, the two-bladed nylon propeller and streamlined design reduce water resistance, prevent water plant entanglement, and provide more power during operation.
- 【Easy to Operate】: It adopts a clutch-type gear without shifting gears, and the manual start allows you to operate more smoothly. By controlling the throttle lever, you can freely control the navigation direction and achieve infinite speed change, or you can cruise at a constant speed to enjoy different cruising experiences according to your needs.
- 【High Safety】: The forced air-cooling system helps cool the engine for longer life. Suspension tilt adjustment pins can be used to adjust the boat's sailing attitude at any time to keep it sailing smoothly. The anti-swirl plate reduces swirl, allowing you to sail more safely. The one-button flameout switch can help you to turn it off quickly. At the same time, it can also automatically turn off the machine when it overheats, making it safer for you to use.
- 【Low Fuel Consumption】: It uses an advanced TCI ignition system and a high-quality carburetor that allow the fuel to burn well and consume only 0.4 gal/hour, which not only saves fuel but also reduces costs.
Best Outboard Boat Motors Buying Guide
Before choosing the best outboard boat motor you should consider following options:
1. Fuel Efficiency: Like automobiles, the more fuel-efficient the engine the less money it will cost you to run it. If you have a choice, look for a motor that uses less fuel.
2. Displacement: Displacement is measured in liters or cubic centimeters (cc). The higher the displacement, the more power the motor will have.
3. Horsepower: Horsepower is measured in brake horsepower (bhp). The higher the horsepower the faster the engine will go.
4. Gear Ratio: Gear ratio is important when traveling in shallow waters. The higher the gear ratio the slower the motor will go.
5. Prop Size: The size of the prop is important because it affects the efficiency of the motor. The diameter of the prop is expressed in inches.
6. Shaft Length: Look for a shaft that is long enough to provide clearance for things like water intake and fuel tank.
7. Prop Orientation: Check the manual for the motor to see if the propeller is designed for forward or backward rotation. Backward-orientated propellers are used for maneuvering and docking. Forward-orientated propellers are used for higher speeds.
8. Warranty: Warranties provide peace of mind and protect against defects. The longer the warranty the better.
9. Noise Level: The noise level of the motor is an important factor to consider if you will be using the motor in close proximity to people.
10. Price: Prices vary greatly depending on the make and model of the motor, displacement, horsepower, and additional features.
What else you should know about outboard boat motors
How do I winterize my outboard boat motor?
Most outboard boat motors can be winterized by draining the water from the motor, adding fresh fuel, and then adding fogging oil to the motor.
How do I maintain my outboard boat motor?
1. Check the engine oil level and fill if necessary.
2. Check the fuel level and add fuel if necessary.
3. Check the coolant level and add coolant if necessary.
4. Check the engine’s air filter and clean or replace if necessary.
5. Check the engine’s spark plugs and replace if necessary.
How do I troubleshoot my outboard boat motor?
If your outboard boat motor is having trouble starting, the first thing you should check is the fuel supply. Make sure there is fresh fuel in the tank, and that the fuel line is not clogged. Next, check the spark plugs and make sure they are clean and in good condition. If the problem persists, take the boat to a qualified mechanic for further diagnosis.
How do I store my outboard boat motor?
To store your outboard boat motor, you will need to clean it and then cover it with a tarp or other type of cover. You will also need to make sure that the motor is secured so that it does not fall over and cause damage.
How do I clean my outboard boat motor?
Assuming you have a 2 stroke outboard boat motor, the general process is as follows:
1. Drain the oil from the motor into a drain pan.
2. Remove the spark plugs and pour a teaspoon of oil into each cylinder.
3. Turn the flywheel by hand to distribute the oil.
4. Replace the plugs and reconnect the power.
5. Open the throttle and let the motor run for a few minutes.
6. Drain the oil again and replace with fresh oil.
Conclusion
On the market, there are numerous best outboard boat motors. Hopefully, the list of the top ten best outboard boat motors will save you time researching and deciding on the best one for you.