Top Outboard Motor Brands: Rev Up Your Boating Experience!

Choosing the right outboard motor is crucial for boating enthusiasts, as it can significantly impact performance and reliability on the water. In today's market, numerous brands offer innovative and reliable outboard motors, each bringing unique features and competitive advantages. Some of the most esteemed brands include Yamaha, known for its durability and advanced technology; Mercury, celebrated for power and efficiency; and Honda, which consistently provides eco-friendly options without compromising on performance. To explore more about these brands and others leading the field, find detailed insights below.

Illustration of outboard motors

Best brands of outboard motors in 2025

Yamaha

Yamaha, a leading producer of outboard motors, holds a significant market share of around 37% in the US as of 2009 and a global market share of 40% as of 2019. Known for their power, durability, and reliability, Yamaha outboards dominate in coastal states, particularly in Florida. The company has transitioned entirely to 4-stroke engines due to EPA emission limits, and their sales in emerging markets like China and Brazil remain strong. In 2019, Yamaha reported revenue of $2.6 billion, with an increase in sales of high-margin 200hp outboards in the US and Europe. Yamaha continues to innovate, planning trials for electric outboard motors integrated with steering control systems. For more detailed insights, you can read a dedicated discussion on Yamaha's dominance in the outboard motor market.

Mercury Marine

Mercury Marine, a leading manufacturer of outboard engines, boasts a rich history since 1939 and holds the position as the largest builder of marine propulsion systems globally. The company has recently demonstrated its dominance by capturing a record 86% market share at the Sao Paulo Boat Show in 2022 and achieving a 66% engine share at the 2023 Cannes Yachting Festival. Despite a 23% drop in sales in the first quarter of 2024, Mercury Marine's outboard motors remain highly regarded, with the company maintaining a forecast of around $2.6 billion in annual sales for 2024. Mercury's product line includes over 60 outboard models, such as the powerful 600-horsepower V12 Verado engine introduced in 2021. The company continues to innovate with advanced technologies like Joystick Piloting and Active Trim. For more insights on their journey and engineering triumphs, visit Mercury Marine's historical and engineering overview.

Honda Marine

Honda Marine is renowned as one of the best producers of outboard motors, celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2024 with a legacy of innovation and customer satisfaction. Known for introducing the first full line of lightweight 4-stroke outboards in America, Honda Marine continues to set industry standards for fuel efficiency, performance, and ease of operation. The company has consistently received the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) Award for 20 years, highlighting its commitment to quality and reliability. Honda's outboards, such as the BF250 and the recently introduced BF350 V8, feature advanced technologies like Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) and Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI). These innovations have solidified Honda Marine's position as a leader in the marine engine market. For more information about their achievements and innovations, visit their official website.

Evinrude

Evinrude, a renowned brand in the outboard motor industry, was once a significant player, particularly in the U.S. and Canada, where it maintained a strong market presence. Until its production cessation in 2020 due to challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, Evinrude was known for its innovative E-TEC and E-TEC G2 two-stroke engines, introduced in 2014 and expanded in 2019 with models such as the 115hp, 140hp, and 150hp versions. Historically, Evinrude and its sister brand Johnson had a substantial market share, with Outboard Marine Corporation, their parent company, holding about one-third of the outboard market in 2000. Evinrude was also a leader in repower sales in the U.S. market. Despite its discontinuation, Evinrude's legacy in outboard motor technology remains notable. For more insights, read about the disappearance of the last big brand of 2-stroke outboard motors.

Suzuki Marine

Suzuki Marine is a leading innovator in the outboard motor industry, having achieved 4 million accumulated global production units since starting production in 1965. Known for its technological advancements, Suzuki outboards feature cutting-edge technologies such as the Lean Burn Control System and battery-less fuel injection, enhancing fuel efficiency and performance. The company has received nine Innovation Awards from the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) and produces outboards ranging from 2.5 to 350 horsepower. Suzuki's market share is around 12%, and they deliver reliable outboard motors to over 174 countries and regions. Their commitment to environmental conservation is highlighted through the SUZUKI CLEAN OCEAN PROJECT. For more information, visit their website: Suzuki Marine.

Tohatsu

Tohatsu is renowned as one of the leading producers of outboard motors, known for its reliability and performance. The company manufactures motors for various brands, including Nissan and Mercury, and is particularly popular in Asia and Japan. Tohatsu's outboard motors are praised for their power-to-weight ratio and durability, with many users reporting excellent performance over extended periods. The company's motors are used in a wide range of applications, from small recreational boats to larger commercial vessels. With a strong presence in the global market, Tohatsu continues to be a preferred choice for outboard motor needs. For more details, visit their official website.

Johnson

Johnson Outboards, once a leading manufacturer of outboard motors, was founded by the Johnson brothers in 1903 and by the mid-1920s, they had surpassed Evinrude in sales, dominating the outboard racing scene. At their peak, Johnson Outboards held over 24% of the market share, although this declined over the years. The company was acquired by Outboard Marine Corporation (OMC) in 1935 and later by Bombardier Recreational Products in 2001, with the Johnson brand being phased out after 2007. Despite this, Bombardier continues to support existing Johnson outboard motors through servicing and parts. Johnson Outboards were known for their innovative designs and numerous patents. For more detailed historical insights about the company, visit their Wikipedia page on Johnson Outboards.

Torqeedo

Torqeedo is a pioneering brand in the field of electric marine propulsion, known for its high-tech focus, maximum efficiency, and complete system integration. Founded in 2005 in Starnberg, Germany, Torqeedo has developed and manufactured electric and hybrid drive systems ranging from 0.5 to 200 kW, catering to both commercial and recreational use. The company has sold over 100,000 units by April 2020 and is recognized as the market leader for electric mobility on the water. Torqeedo's products are characterized by their innovative designs, such as the 360-degree rudder propeller, and their commitment to sustainability and innovation. Through its partnership with Yamaha, Torqeedo's electric outboards are now available at Yamaha dealerships in the U.S., further expanding its market reach. For more information, visit their official website.

Parsun

Parsun is a prominent manufacturer of outboard motors, offering a range of products including both electric and gasoline engines, known for their optimal performance and fuel economy. The company's outboard motors, such as the Parsun 6hp 4-stroke, have been praised for their reliability and competitive pricing, with the 6hp model being 20% cheaper than its nearest competitor. Parsun engines are equipped with features like forward, neutral, and reverse gears, twist grip throttle, and automatic reverse lock, making them highly functional. Additionally, Parsun stands out with its three-year no-quibble parts and labor warranty, a unique offering in the industry. The company's commitment to quality and customer satisfaction has made it a trusted name in the marine market. For more information, visit Parsun's official website.

Selva Marine

Selva Marine stands as a premier European producer of outboard motors, celebrating 60 years of unmatched success and renowned for its superior technological advancements and product quality. Established in 1959, Selva is distinguished as the only European company with a full-fledged production cycle for outboard motor components, encompassing die-casting, mechanical machining, and state-of-the-art coating techniques. Since 2004, the company holds the esteemed ISO 9001 certification, underscoring its dedication to excellence. Selva's high-performance engines are acclaimed in the motorboat racing circuit, boasting 40 world titles, 65 European titles, and over 150 national accolades. Whether for work, leisure, or sport, Selva's products enjoy high regard across Europe and the Mediterranean region. Furthermore, the company is the official supplier for the Italian Coast Guard and various other military regiments. Learn more about their innovations and achievements on the Selva Marine company page.