Best Small Outboard Motors | Our Buyer’s Guide

I am thrilled for my next outdoor trip. Fishing from shore is now getting boring. I admit I get a bit jealous to see my friends catching more fish on their boats.

This time, I will try it for real. I have saved enough bucks to spend for an inflatable boat or a mini pontoon. Anyway, I am looking for the best small outboard motor to power it up.

I have done my research and found out that almost all of them have comparable features, got the insignificant difference in weight and even looks the same for me. I only need a motor that is suitable for my camping and fishing trip. Something lightweight so as not to drag me down, but powerful enough to give me an excellent fishing cruise.

Do you want to see what I got?

I do not go to competitions or any other activities that need high-powered engines. I simply want to camp, fish and enjoy the waters. That is the primary reason that I only search for small outboard motors. In my personal view, below are the criteria I have to meet.

1. Weight and Size

It is not easy to pack and carry camping gears and other supplies. Much more that I tag along a small boat or inflatable of any kind. It is my concern to be meticulous about the weight and size of the motor. The weight must not strain the trip down, and the size must not occupy a lot of space.

My ideal small outboard motors weight is below 30 kg. I can tolerate that load on top of other stuff that I need to bring.

2. Build Quality

I am not an expert, but I do have my own preference. I know for one that a reliable brand is one-step of getting the durable and dependable engine. If I want the best small outboard motor, I might as well choose a trusted product. A generous warranty provision is a big plus as well.

3. Refinement

I do not make a big fuss about the performance since I know the capacity of small outboard motors. However, I admit that I am a bit sensitive when it comes to noise. Therefore, the lesser the noise output and the smoother it is to maneuver, the better it is for me.

4. The right shaft

In my few attempts of camping and fishing, I have learned that the motor shaft should be suitable to the transom. A short shaft fitted to a long transom may not reach the water and will affect the performance and cooling system. Vice-versa, it may cause the raft or boat to tip over and results to potential risk. I am certain that I will choose a short shaft.

5. Motor Power

For a simple fishing spree, I would need a horsepower that would serve the purpose. The range of 4 to 6 HP is enough to make me enjoy a perfect pace. Besides, my small boat and propeller is just the right match for small outboard motors. I merely mean to cruise around the lake with a friend or two.

Here are some tips on how to choose the right outboard motor for your boat.

The 5 Best Small Outboard Motors 2020 Review

This small outboard motor is excellent for my little boat. I believe that this engine is most efficient in fuel consumption. One thing that attracts me also is the new design for the carrying handle and holding grip. I found the new idea easy to bring and store anywhere.

HANGKAI gives their buyers a choice to pick between models who have a built-in fuel tank and external fuel tank. I guess it is best to choose the kind with the built-in tank since this design contains a built-in external fuel connector. If I opt to, I can easily add an extra tank separately.

Mercury outdoor motor has a 15" shaft, tiller handle, aluminum prop, and a built-in fuel tank as well. This engine is ultra-quiet, smoke free, and have smooth idling, making this engine a natural choice for fishing. 

I like it that this has a forward-neutral-reverse gear shift and vibration reduction system. The reverse gear is convenient for me, and I am happy that it does not vibrate as much compared to others. Too much shaking is uncomfortable while sailing.

This small outboard motor is extremely handy and equipped with an innovative C.D.I system for quick startup. With its reputation for low fuel consumption and smooth maneuverability, I imagine it is acceptable for my regular fishing spree and safe ride.

This small outboard motor has a lightweight and compact design that is what every fishing fanatic is eyeing for a cruise. LEADALLWAY long shaft engine is salt water rated and has multi-layer corrosion protection. The best feature that I am in favor of is the quiet below-the-water exhaust for a more tranquil fishing moment.

LEADALLWAY is a long-trusted brand on the market and is a perfect pick for various crafts. It also has an external fuel tank connection that allows an extra fuel tank when traveling longer.

With the 6 HP, this engine can easily push heavier small boats with slighter noise. Therefore, if I go out with a bunch of company than the usual few, the speed of the cruise is less affected. As a big plus, I can store this motor in a locker since it stores either sideways or upright.

So, what is great with Leadallway motors? Is it the start-in-gear feature or the 360-degree steering rotation for reverse even without shifting gears? Both are actually useful features and are the reasons why I included this product on my list. The clutch prevents prop rotation when on standby.

The push button latch can quickly pull off engine cover instantly to access motor right away. More so, this short shaft engine only weighs 10 kg. I can easily stash it at the back of the car. One important thing is the motor parts are available mostly in any repair shop and some even come free.

Since it is just 4 HP, it does not come with the external fuel tank. For a tight budget, this outboard motor for your small boat is simple to operate and requires less maintenance. Comparing to others, this product is more affordable and lightweight. I recommend this for starters who are not yet used to attaching motors to a boat.

I say that Coleman Motors have met some of my personal criteria. The 2.6 HP engine is lightweight, reliable and most of all runs quietly. It is equipped with a TCI Ignition for easy starting along with fan shifting with 360 degree steering.  Some additional features are adjustable steering friction, shallow-water drive, vibration reduction, twist grip throttle, and marine aluminum alloy for corrosion protection.

This small outboard motor is an epitome for small or inflatable boats. The ignition system aids the motor to start all the time quickly. For its water-cooling system, Coleman has an added thermostat-controlled to keep engine temperature constant.

Although this small outboard motor is saltwater rated, you still need to flush the cooling water passages with fresh water to eliminate salt deposit formation. Remember that this is a standard maintenance procedure to any outboard motor.

Conclusion

We have different choices of engines as we speak. The best small outboard motors for me might be utterly dissimilar to yours. It is because we may not have the same use and boat size. If you are like me, you will also pick the least HP.

However, for my best pick, I choose Suzuki 6HP 4-Stroke Outboard Motors. Of my criteria list, the brand met most of it. Suzuki is a brand that has a reputation for build quality and boasts a lightweight design that is suitable for my traveling plans. The 6 HP gives me the opportunity to go fishing with more friends on the boat.

All small outboard motors in my review are all winners for any boat lovers. However, if you are planning to purchase one, make your own buying criteria to pick what is suitable. The HP and the boat size are some points that you need to consider.

Did you find this review helpful to you? If you have more questions, you can drop a comment, and I will immediately get back to you.

Learn more about how to choose How To Buy The Best Fishing Kayak , Top 5 Best Bay Boats for the Money . By the way, have a look at our Our Top 5 Best Boat Trailer Tires , A Helpful Guide In Selecting The Best Weight Distribution Hitch .