5 HP Outboard Motors: Small Enough to Carry, Strong Enough for Two
The 5 HP class is where a portable motor stops feeling like a toy. Here is every model we sell, what separates them, and who should buy one.
5 HP outboard motors are portable single-cylinder four-stroke engines, usually around 55 to 60 lb, that push inflatables, small aluminum boats and sailboats at a steady cruise with two people aboard.
Two brothers, one inflatable, zero patience
Dev and Arjun bought a 10-foot inflatable to fish a reservoir arm the shore anglers could never reach. Their first motor was a borrowed 2.5 HP. With two grown men, two tackle boxes and a cooler, it sounded brave and moved like a sleepy duck.
The morning a headwind pushed them backward past their own truck, they went home and ordered a 5 HP four-stroke with a real reverse gear. Next trip they reached the far cove in twelve minutes, backed off a snag without spinning the motor around, and still had fuel left in the built-in tank. Arjun has since renamed the boat “Sleepy Duck” out of respect for the old motor.
Every 5 HP outboard motor we sell
Four brands make a true 5 HP. Yamaha skips the size, so we list its 4 HP and 6 HP as the nearest choices. Prices are starting prices in USD.
How do the 5 HP models compare?
All are single-cylinder four-strokes with an integrated fuel tank, and most accept an external tank for longer days. Here is what actually differs.
| Model | Approx. weight | Gears | Standout | From |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tohatsu MFS5 | about 55 lb | F-N-R | Lowest price in class | $1,550 |
| Suzuki DF5A | about 55 lb | F-N-R | Compact, easy carry handle | $1,600 |
| Mercury 5 HP | about 55 lb | F-N-R | Widest service network | $1,760 |
| Honda BF5 | about 60 lb | F-N-R | Refined, low-vibration running | $1,920 |
| Yamaha F4 (nearest) | about 60 lb | F-N, 360° turn | Simple, proven design | $1,720 |
Weights are approximate for short-shaft versions. See each product page for exact figures.
Who is a 5 HP outboard for?
- Two people in a 9 to 11 ft inflatable or rigid tender.
- Owners of 12 ft aluminum boats on small lakes and slow rivers.
- Sailors wanting a light auxiliary for a small keelboat (choose long shaft).
- Anglers who need reverse to back off snags and docks.
- Anyone who still wants to lift the motor on and off by hand.
Lighter needs? See 2.5 HP outboards. Want more push? Compare 6 HP and 8 HP.
5 HP outboard motors: FAQ
How fast will a 5 HP outboard go?
A light inflatable with one person can reach roughly 7 to 10 mph. With two adults and gear, expect a steady 5 to 7 mph cruise.
Can one person carry a 5 HP outboard?
Yes. At around 55 to 60 lb most adults can carry one a short distance using the built-in handle. Drain or close the fuel and carry it upright or on its approved side.
Short or long shaft for a 5 HP?
Measure your transom. About 15 in needs a short shaft, typical for dinghies and jon boats. About 20 in needs a long shaft, common on sailboats.
Is there an electric equivalent to a 5 HP gas outboard?
The Torqeedo Cruise 3.0 sits in roughly the same performance class. It runs silently from a separate lithium battery, so plan your range around battery capacity.
Two people, one cooler, plenty of motor.
Grab a 5 HP now, or send us your boat details for a straight recommendation.