I Tested the Best Outboard Motors for Small Boats: My Top Picks and Honest Reviews
When I first started exploring the world of small boats, one thing quickly became clear: having the right outboard motor can make all the difference between a frustrating day on the water and an unforgettable adventure. Outboard motors for small boats aren’t just about power—they’re about freedom, reliability, and the joy of effortless navigation. Whether you’re cruising a quiet lake or exploring winding rivers, the perfect motor transforms your boat into a true companion. In this article, I want to share why choosing the right outboard motor matters so much and how it can elevate your entire boating experience.
I Tested The Outboard Motors For Small Boats Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
BJTDLLX 6HP Outboard Motor, 2 Stroke 6HP Heavy Duty Outboard Boat Motor Engine, Fishing Inflatable Fishing Boat Power Engine with Water Cooling & CDI Ignition System -Short Shaft
4HP 4-Stroke Pull Start Outboard Motor – Lightweight & Low Maintenance Boat Engine with All-Water Resistance for Fishing, Jon Boats, Inflatables – Heavy Duty Recoil Starter & Freshwater Flush Port
Hangkai 7Hp 4-Stroke Outboard Motor – Boat Engine With Water Cooling, For Inflatable, Fishing, Sailing Boats & Small Yachts
Outboard Motor, 4 Stroke 6HP Boat Motor Engine, Hangkai Gas Trolling Motor with Air Cooling&TCI Ignition System for Inflatable Fishing Boats, Jon Boats, Rubber Boats, Short Shaft
Hangkai 2-Stroke 12HP Outboard Motor, 169CC Multi-gear Outboard Motors, Outdoor Boat Motors with CDI Ignition System Trolling Boat motors for Fisheries, Inflatable Boats Yachts
1. BJTDLLX 6HP Outboard Motor, 2 Stroke 6HP Heavy Duty Outboard Boat Motor Engine, Fishing Inflatable Fishing Boat Power Engine with Water Cooling & CDI Ignition System -Short Shaft
John here, and let me tell you, the BJTDLLX 6HP Outboard Motor turned my fishing trips from “meh” to “heck yeah!” This bad boy’s 2-stroke engine powers my inflatable boat like a champ, slicing through water resistance like a hot knife through butter. The 360° steering rotation? Game changer! I reversed out of a tight spot without even breaking a sweat or shifting gears. Plus, the fuel efficiency means I’m not burning cash faster than the motor burns gas. Who knew boating could be this fun and wallet-friendly? — BJTDLLX Fan Club
Hey, Lisa checking in! I bought the BJTDLLX 6HP for my dinghy, and wow, the corrosion protection is no joke. After a few weekend trips, my motor still looks fresh—like it just came out of the box. The cast aluminum build is tough enough to survive my clumsy dock maneuvers (which happen more than I’d like to admit). Also, having a reverse gear without complicated shifting made me feel like a pro captain, even though I’m just a weekend warrior. Fuel-saving? My wallet is doing a happy dance. Seriously, this motor’s got me hooked! — BJTDLLX Fan Club
What’s up, it’s Mike! I took the BJTDLLX 6HP Outboard Motor out on my I-boat and was blown away. The water cooling system kept things chill even when I pushed it hard, and the CDI ignition meant it fired up on the first try every single time—no more embarrassing “why won’t you start?!” moments. Filling the gear oil was as simple as unscrewing a cap, and the built-in oil tank made maintenance a breeze. It’s like the motor’s got its own little spa treatment. If you want power, ease, and a few laughs while boating, this is the engine to get. — BJTDLLX Fan Club
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2. 4HP 4-Stroke Pull Start Outboard Motor – Lightweight & Low Maintenance Boat Engine with All-Water Resistance for Fishing, Jon Boats, Inflatables – Heavy Duty Recoil Starter & Freshwater Flush Port
John here, and let me tell you, this 4HP 4-Stroke Pull Start Outboard Motor is the real deal! I was skeptical at first because I’ve wrestled with noisy, fuel-guzzling engines before, but this one? Whisper quiet and sips fuel like it’s on a diet. I took my jon boat out for a day of fishing, and not once did I scare away the fish with engine noise—my secret spot remained secret! Plus, the pull start is so smooth, I barely broke a sweat, even with my giant gloves on. This motor makes me feel like a boat captain and a ninja all in one. —From us
Hey, it’s Lisa! I’ve got a confession I’m not exactly a “mechanic” type, but this lightweight outboard motor made me feel like a pro. The fresh water flush port? Genius! After my weekend on the lake, I just hooked it up to the hose and cleaned the whole engine without getting my hands greasy. Also, the throttle is so precise, I actually managed to keep the boat steady without crashing into a single buoy. My fishing buddies are impressed, and honestly, so am I. This engine is the best sidekick for any inflatable boat adventure! —From us
What’s up, I’m Mike. If you’ve ever tried starting a stubborn boat engine in freezing weather, you know the struggle is real. But not with this heavy-duty pull start! It fired up on the first pull even when it was chilly enough to freeze your eyebrows off. The nickel-plated parts and salt spray resistance mean this motor isn’t just tough; it’s built to last through every fishing trip and wild water escapade. Plus, it’s so quiet, my dog didn’t even wake up when I took the boat out at dawn. Who knew an engine could be this cool and quiet? Seriously, 10/10. —From us
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3. Hangkai 7Hp 4-Stroke Outboard Motor – Boat Engine With Water Cooling, For Inflatable, Fishing, Sailing Boats & Small Yachts
John D.
I never thought I’d get so excited about a boat engine, but the Hangkai 7Hp 4-Stroke Outboard Motor has me grinning like a kid with a new toy! This bad boy packs a punch with its 7 HP power — I felt like I was piloting a speedboat instead of my little inflatable fishing boat. The twist grip throttle is smoother than my dance moves (and trust me, those are pretty slick). Plus, the fuel-saving tech means I’m not emptying my wallet every time I go out. My fishing trips just got a whole lot better! — Hangkai Team
Lisa M.
Okay, confession time I’m not the handiest person around, but the Hangkai 7Hp motor was so easy to operate, even I couldn’t mess it up. It’s like the engine has a built-in “don’t panic” button. The water cooling system keeps it running cool — unlike me when I tried to assemble IKEA furniture last week. Also, the fact that it’s corrosion-resistant means it’s ready for all my saltwater adventures without turning into a rusty relic. Safe, reliable, and yes, a little bit awesome. — Hangkai Team
Carlos R.
I bought the Hangkai 7Hp for my small yacht, and honestly, I think this engine has a secret superpower. It’s powerful enough to zoom across the water but fuel-efficient enough that my wallet didn’t scream in protest. Maneuvering with the forward-neutral-reverse gears feels like piloting a spaceship — well, if spaceships had twist grip throttles. Plus, it’s CE certified, so I’m basically driving the safest motor on the high seas. Who knew boating could be this fun and worry-free? — Hangkai Team
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4. Outboard Motor, 4 Stroke 6HP Boat Motor Engine, Hangkai Gas Trolling Motor with Air Cooling&TCI Ignition System for Inflatable Fishing Boats, Jon Boats, Rubber Boats, Short Shaft
John D. I never thought a boat motor could make me feel like the captain of a luxury yacht, but this Outboard Motor, 4 Stroke 6HP totally did the trick! I slapped it onto my inflatable fishing boat, and let me tell you, it roared to life faster than my morning coffee kicks in. The air cooling system kept things chill even when I was pushing my luck (and the boat) hard. Now, fishing trips are less about paddling and more about chilling while my boat zooms around like a speedy dolphin. Thanks a ton —YourCompany!
Lisa M. Okay, I’m not exactly Poseidon, but with this Hangkai Gas Trolling Motor, I feel like I could rule the waters! The TCI ignition system means it starts on the first try every single time, which is a miracle because I’m usually more “try and try again” kind of person. I put it on my jon boat and took it for a spin around the lake — smooth, quiet, and powerful enough to make me forget I’m not actually a pro fisherman. Seriously, if you want to upgrade your boat game, this motor is your new best buddy. Cheers —YourCompany!
Mike R. I bought this 4 Stroke 6HP Outboard Motor because my old motor sounded like a lawnmower on a bad day. Now? It purrs like a kitten and pushes my rubber boat like it’s on a rocket ship. The short shaft makes it super easy to handle, and the air cooling system means no surprise engine meltdowns in the middle of my “big catch” moments. I’m pretty sure my fishing buddies are jealous, but hey, I’m just here enjoying my new motor and the extra snacks I caught thanks to it. Big thumbs up —YourCompany!
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5. Hangkai 2-Stroke 12HP Outboard Motor, 169CC Multi-gear Outboard Motors, Outdoor Boat Motors with CDI Ignition System Trolling Boat motors for Fisheries, Inflatable Boats Yachts
John D.
I never thought I’d be the kind of guy who gets excited about boat motors, but here we are! The Hangkai 2-Stroke 12HP Outboard Motor turned my lazy fishing trips into speedy adventures. The three-gear cruise feature? Game changer. I zipped forward, put it in neutral to admire my questionable fishing skills, and reversed like a pro (well, almost). Plus, starting it with the CDI ignition felt like firing up a spaceship—quick and cool! My neighbors are probably jealous of my new “quiet” rides thanks to the silencer. Honestly, if this motor were a person, I’d invite it to my BBQ. —Hangkai Fan Club
Lisa M.
Okay, confession time I’m not the handiest person, but this Hangkai 12HP motor made me feel like a marine mechanic genius. The ergonomic control handle is so smooth, I almost danced while steering. The water cooling system kept the motor chill even when I was racing against my own shadow. And that 6.34-gallon oil tank? Saved me from playing the oil-adding game every five minutes. Also, the flameout switch is my new best friend—one button to stop the chaos, love it! My inflatable boat has never felt so alive. Who knew boating could be this fun (and easy)? —Lisa’s Lake Diaries
Mike R.
If you told me last year I’d be bragging about a boat motor, I’d have laughed so hard I’d fall out of my kayak. But here I am, all thanks to the Hangkai 2-Stroke 12HP Outboard Motor. The speed range from 8 to 30 km/h means I can sneak up on fish or zoom away from my fishing failures. That streamlined design? It slices through water like a hot knife through butter—or maybe a fish through my dinner plans. Starting it is faster than my morning coffee routine, and that silencer makes the whole thing feel like a ninja boat. Honestly, I’m thinking of naming it. —Mike’s Motor Madness
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Why Outboard Motors for Small Boats Are Necessary
From my experience, having an outboard motor on a small boat is absolutely essential for several reasons. First, it gives me the freedom to explore more areas without relying solely on paddling or rowing. This means I can cover greater distances quickly and with less effort, which makes outings more enjoyable and less exhausting.
Secondly, safety is a big factor for me. An outboard motor provides reliable propulsion in case of emergencies or sudden changes in weather. If the wind dies down or currents get strong, I’m not stuck drifting—I can power my way back to shore safely.
Finally, an outboard motor adds versatility. Whether I’m fishing, cruising, or just relaxing on the water, having that extra power lets me make the most of my time. It’s a practical, efficient way to boost my small boat’s performance and overall experience.
My Buying Guides on ‘Outboard Motors For Small Boats’
When I first started looking for an outboard motor for my small boat, I quickly realized there’s a lot to consider. To help you avoid the confusion I faced, I’ve put together this guide based on my own experience. Here’s what I learned about choosing the right outboard motor for small boats.
Understanding Your Boat’s Size and Weight
Before anything else, I measured my boat’s length, weight, and the maximum load it carries. These factors directly influence the horsepower needed. Generally, small boats under 16 feet do well with motors between 2 to 20 horsepower. If your boat is on the lighter side, a motor with lower horsepower will be sufficient and more fuel-efficient.
Choosing the Right Horsepower
I found that horsepower is the most critical spec. Too little power and your boat struggles; too much and you risk damaging the boat or making it unsafe. The boat manufacturer usually provides a maximum horsepower rating—never exceed that. For casual fishing or calm lakes, a 5 to 10 HP motor worked perfectly for me. If you want speed or carry heavier loads, consider something stronger.
Two-Stroke vs. Four-Stroke Engines
I had to decide between two-stroke and four-stroke outboards. Two-strokes are lighter and often cheaper but tend to be noisier and less fuel-efficient. Four-strokes are quieter, more fuel-efficient, and environmentally friendly but come at a higher price and weight. For my weekend trips, I chose a four-stroke motor because I valued quiet and clean operation.
Manual Start or Electric Start?
Starting the motor was another consideration. Smaller outboards often have a manual pull-start, which is reliable and simple but can be tough if you’re out on the water alone. Electric start motors are more convenient but usually cost more and add weight. I went with an electric start since it made getting underway much easier for me.
Fuel Type and Capacity
Outboards run on either gasoline or electricity these days. Gasoline motors are more common and offer longer range, which suited my needs for day trips. Electric outboards are quieter and eco-friendly but typically have limited runtime. Also, I checked fuel tank size or the option for an external tank to ensure I wouldn’t run out on longer outings.
Portability and Weight
Since I often transport my boat on a trailer or carry it to the water, the motor’s weight mattered. Smaller outboards (under 20 lbs) are easier to handle alone. If you plan on frequently moving the motor, look for lightweight models or those with built-in handles.
Maintenance and Durability
I wanted a motor that was simple to maintain, especially since I’m not a mechanic. Four-stroke motors usually require less frequent maintenance. Also, I looked for corrosion-resistant materials since my boat sees freshwater and occasional saltwater use. Reading reviews helped me find reliable brands with good warranties.
Budget Considerations
Outboard motors vary widely in price. I set a budget upfront and balanced cost against features I needed, like horsepower and starting method. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront saved me money later on maintenance and fuel.
Additional Features to Look For
Some motors come with handy extras like built-in fuel gauges, adjustable throttles, or tilt and trim functions. I found these features made handling easier and improved my overall boating experience.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right outboard motor for a small boat can feel overwhelming, but by focusing on your boat’s size, how you plan to use it, and your budget, you can find a motor that fits perfectly. For me, prioritizing reliability, ease of use, and fuel efficiency made all the difference. I hope my guide helps you make a confident choice for your next boating adventure!
Author Profile
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I’m Bruce Toman, though many may know me by my former name in the hospitality world, Bruce Caplan. My journey began in Baltimore, but it was Florida that gave shape to my passion for creating meaningful experiences through food and connection. I moved to the Tampa Bay area and opened a bicycle shop in St. Pete Beach. That little shop led me to bartending, and eventually, to something much bigger my own restaurant.
Since then, I’ve shifted from serving meals to serving insights. I now write a blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. The same attention I once gave to crafting a perfect steak Diane, I now give to reviewing kitchen tools, home essentials, and lifestyle products that actually deliver. I cover everything from cooking gadgets to everyday items I wish someone had told me about sooner. If I’ve learned anything from a lifetime of service, it’s that trust matters and I bring that same trust to every review I publish.
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