Small Outboard Motors: Every Size from 2.3 to 30 HP, Every Major Brand
This is the master list. Pick your horsepower, pick your brand, or browse every small outboard we sell in one place.
Small outboard motors are compact engines of about 2.3 to 30 HP that clamp or bolt onto a boat’s transom. They power dinghies, canoes, jon boats, skiffs and small sailboats.
The dock where everyone asks the same question
At every marina there is someone like Frank. He has been around boats for forty years, and at least once a weekend a newcomer walks up the dock and asks him, “What size motor do I need?”
Frank never names a brand first. He asks three things: how long is the boat, what does the capacity plate say, and how many people are coming along. Then he points to a size. The brand, he says, is the easy part: pick the one with a good dealer near you. This page works the same way. Find your size first, then choose your brand.
Shop small outboard motors by horsepower
Each size page lists every model we sell at that HP. Prices shown are the lowest starting price in USD.
Shop small outboard motors by brand
What size small outboard motor do I need?
Start with your boat type and the maximum HP on the capacity plate, then use this chart.
| Boat | Typical length | Suggested HP | Approx. motor weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canoe, kayak, small tender | 8 to 17 ft | 2.3 to 3.5 HP or electric | 30 to 40 lb |
| Inflatable dinghy | 9 to 11 ft | 4 to 6 HP | 50 to 62 lb |
| Sailboat auxiliary | 18 to 28 ft | 4 to 9.9 HP long shaft | 55 to 100 lb |
| Jon boat | 12 to 14 ft | 9.9 to 20 HP | 85 to 120 lb |
| Aluminum fishing boat, skiff, RIB | 14 to 18 ft | 15 to 30 HP | 95 to 180 lb |
Who buys small outboard motors?
- First-time owners of jon boats, dinghies and small fishing boats.
- Sailors needing a reliable auxiliary or tender motor.
- Anglers who want a trolling kicker or a lake-legal 9.9.
- Owners replacing an old two-stroke with a modern four-stroke.
- Paddlers and electric-only lake users choosing Torqeedo.
Small outboard motors: FAQ
What is the most popular small outboard size?
9.9 and 15 HP. They plane common 12 to 14 ft boats, stay reasonably light, and 9.9 HP fits many horsepower-limited lakes.
Which brand of small outboard is best?
All five gas brands we sell make reliable four-strokes. Suzuki and Tohatsu lead on value, Honda on quietness, Mercury and Yamaha on dealer coverage. Local service often decides it.
Short shaft or long shaft?
Measure your transom height. About 15 in takes a short shaft; about 20 in takes a long shaft. Sailboats usually need long shafts.
Can I put a bigger motor than the plate allows?
No. Exceeding the capacity plate is unsafe and may break local rules or void insurance. Choose a motor at or below the rated maximum.
Not sure where to start? Ask Frank’s three questions.
Boat length, plate rating, crew size. Send them to us and we will name your motor.