Best Portable Outboard Motors for Small Boats

Best Portable Outboard Motors for Small Boats – Top Picks, Specs, and Deals

No matter if you’re fishing on the river, lake, or open ocean coastal waters, the right portable outboard motor can be the difference between a spectacular day and an unremarkable one. If you fish, cruise, or just enjoy spending time on the water, the right motor provides power, efficiency, and convenience. portable outboard motor

In this guide, we’ve selected the top portable outboard motors for small boats. Each motor on our list is available for purchase — with full specs, features, and our expert advice so you can choose the ideal one for your needs. Let’s begin. portable outboard motor

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Why a Portable Outboard Motor?

Lightweight portable outboard motors are convenient to handle and small in size, making them perfect for dinghies, inflatables, jon boats, tenders, and other small craft. These motors are perfect for use by:

• Recreational boaters who need a motor that is easy to install and conveniently portable
• Fishermen who go into shallow or inaccessibly located waters
• Seamen employing motors as an auxiliary power source
• Emergency Backup on larger vessels

Most portable outboards are 2 HP to 20 HP, and while they are designed for small boats, the power they provide is well beyond what their size suggests.

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Things to Look For in a Portable Outboard Motor

When purchasing, the following are important things to keep in mind:

• Weight: Lighter motors for easier mounting and carrying
• Fuel Type: 2-stroke for simplicity, 4-stroke for efficiency
• Starting System: Manual vs. electric start
• Shaft Length: Short shaft (15″) vs. long shaft (20″) for diverse transoms
• Fuel Tank: Internal vs. external tank
• Warranty & Support: Choose brands with excellent customer support and guarantees

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Our Top Picks – Best Portable Outboard Motors for Small Boats

All of the following models are in stock for sale right from our store — affordable and serviced by experts.

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1. Honda BF2.3DHSCH – 2.3 HP 4-Stroke Outboard Motor

Best For: Lightest portability and reliability

Specs:

• Horsepower: 2.3 HP
• Weight: 29.5 lbs
• Starting: Manual
• Shaft Length: 15″
• Fuel Tank: 1-liter internal
• Type: 4-stroke, air-cooled

The Honda BF2.3 is the lightest 4-stroke outboard in the world. With its air-cooled design, it doesn’t have a water pump to clog, making it ideal for use in weedy or sandy lakes. portable outboard motor

Key Features:

• Lightweight and easy to take with you
• No water pump — less maintenance
• 360° steer for ultimate maneuverability

Price: $1,199 – [Buy Now]

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2. Mercury 3.5MH – 3.5 HP 4-Stroke Outboard

Best For: Smallest dinghies and fishing vessels

Specs:

• Horsepower: 3.5 HP
• Weight: 41 lbs
• Starting: Manual
• Shaft Length: 15″
• Fuel Tank: 1L internally
• Type: 4-stroke

Mercury’s 3.5MH is a high-performance, smooth but compact motor with class-leading fuel efficiency. Ideal for small aluminum boats or tenders.

Key Features:

• Forward-neutral gear shift
• Quiet running
• Twist-grip throttle

Price: $1,150 – [Buy Now]

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3. Tohatsu MFS5D – 5 HP 4-Stroke Outboard Motor

Best For: Everyday use on most small boats

Specs:

• Horsepower: 5 HP
• Weight: 57 lbs
• Starting: Manual
• Shaft Length: 15″ or 20″
• Fuel Tank: Internal (1.1L) + external (3.1 gal)
• Type: 4-stroke

Tohatsu’s reputation for durability shines through in this model. It has both internal and external fuel tanks, allowing for longer running times. portable outboard motor

Key Features:

• Low emissions and quiet operation
• Easy-carry handle
• Optional propane fuel version available

Price: $1,499 – [Buy Now]

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4. Suzuki DF6AS – 6 HP 4-Stroke Outboard

Best For: Recreational fishermen and boaters who need a bit of extra oomph

Specs:

• Horsepower: 6 HP
• Weight: 52 lbs
• Starting: Manual
• Shaft Length: 15″
• Fuel Tank: 1L internal + external option
• Type: 4-stroke

The Suzuki DF6 is the quietest portable engine on the market and boasts features reserved for larger engines.

Key Features:

• Lean burn fuel system
• Tilt lock and oil pressure warning
• Easy recoil starting

Price: $1,649 – [Buy Now]

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5. Yamaha F8SMHB – 8 HP 4-Stroke Outboard

Best For: Medium inflatables or utility boats

Specs:

• Horsepower: 8 HP
• Weight: 87 lbs
• Starting: Manual
• Shaft Length: 15″
• Fuel Tank: 3.1 gal external
• Type: 4-stroke

Yamaha’s legendary reliability and portability come together in the F8 series. Ideal for boaters in need of more torque and thrust.

Key Features:

• Smooth, quiet operation
• Twin-cylinder compact engine design
• Ergonomic tiller handle

Price: $2,399 – [Buy Now]

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6. Mercury 9.9MXLH – 9.9 HP 4-Stroke Outboard

Best For: Heavier loads and longer distances

Specs:

• Horsepower: 9.9 HP
• Weight: 84 lbs
• Starting: Manual
• Shaft Length: 20″
• Fuel Tank: 3.2 gal external
• Type: 4-stroke

This Mercury is ideal for operators who need increased thrust without stepping up to larger outboards.

Key Features:

• Propeller option for high-thrust
• Vibration-dampening mounts
• Cold starts without fail

Price: $2,699 – [Buy Now]

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7. Tohatsu MFS20E – 20 HP EFI 4-Stroke Outboard

Best For: Most power in a portable package

Specs:

• Horsepower: 20 HP
• Weight: 95 lbs
• Starting: Electric & Manual
• Shaft Length: 15″ or 20″
• Fuel Tank: External (3.1 gal)
• Type: 4-stroke EFI

The MFS20E is the strongest outboard in our portable series. It has electronic fuel injection for added efficiency and throttle responsiveness.

Key Features:

• Battery-less EFI
• Power tilt option
• Low emissions and fuel-efficient

Price: $3,399 – [Buy Now]

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2-Stroke vs. 4-Stroke – Which is Better?

• 2-Stroke Engines: Lighter and less complicated, but greater emissions and lower fuel economy. Simple to repair but banned in certain regions due to regulations.
• 4-Stroke Engines: More fuel-efficient, quieter, and cleaner. A little heavier and more complex but suited better to long-term use.

Most portable outboards sold new today are 4-stroke because of tighter environmental regulations.

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How to Choose the Right HP for Your Boat

Boat Type	Recommended HP
Small inflatable (1-2p)	2.5 – 4 HP
Dinghy or tender	3.5 – 6 HP
Jon boat (10-12 ft)	6 – 10 HP
Aluminum fishing boat	8 – 20 HP
Sailboat auxiliary	3.5 – 9.9 HP

Tip: Always check the transom rating of your boat before purchasing an engine.

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Accessories to Keep in Mind

When purchasing a portable outboard, consider the following:

• Fuel Tank and Line (if external)
• Motor Stand or Dolly to transport it
• Propeller Guards to prevent damage
• Outboard Lock for safety
• Flush Kit for maintenance
• Spare Propellers and shear pins

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Why Buy From Us?

✅ Authorized Dealer – We only sell authentic outboards with full warranties
✅ Expert Support – Help with selecting, installing, and maintaining your engine
✅ Price Match Guarantee – The best value on the market
✅ Fast Shipping – To your doorstep, fully tested and ready to use

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Customer Reviews

“Received the Tohatsu 5 HP for my inflatable — it’s ginormous! Easy to start, smooth operation, and great gas efficiency.” – Jake L., California

“Honda 2.3 is a doozy for solo trips. Lightweight enough to carry in one hand!” – Denise R., Florida

“Excellent service. Had my Mercury 9.9 in 3 days and it runs like a kitten.” – Mark W., Texas

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Order Your Portable Outboard Motor Today!

Love the thrill of boating but like to do it your way? Shop our full line of portable outboard motors for boats and find your perfect fit. All products include:

• Manufacturer warranty
• Easy returns
• Technical support at no additional charge

🛒 Shop Now

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Final Thoughts

Portable outboard motors give brief boat proprietors the comfort of powering through accurately. If you need a feather-weight 2.3 HP motor or a supercharger 20 HP engine, we carry it — prepared to ship and backed by professional support.

Pick the right motor at the right price today. Not sure which one you need to buy? Call us and we will guide you to the perfect engine.