7 picks with specs, filters and a calculator to find the right size.
Thrust moves the boat; voltage decides how long you can run. Transom motors clamp on the back and steer by hand; bow motors mount up front and steer by foot pedal or remote.
A simple, proven hand-steer transom motor with a composite shaft that Minn Kota guarantees for life, a 10-position lever-lock bracket and a 6-inch telescoping tiller.
Best for: Jon boats, small aluminum boats and canoes on freshwater.
Check price on Amazon (paid link) Specs from minnkota.johnsonoutdoors.comAdds variable speed with Minn Kota’s Digital Maximizer, which only sends the motor the power it needs, plus a push-to-test battery meter on the head. Minn Kota claims up to 5 times longer run time on one charge than full power.
Best for: Anglers who troll slowly for hours and want the most run time from one battery.
Check price on Amazon (paid link) Specs from hydrillagear.comA budget-friendly transom motor built for saltwater, with a 5-LED battery meter, a telescoping tiller and a 3-blade prop. Also sold in 36, 46, 62 and 86 lb versions.
Best for: Inflatables, kayaks with a transom mount and small boats on salt or fresh water.
Check price on Amazon (paid link) Specs from basspro.comA compact, light transom motor made for kayaks and canoes. Small enough to run all day from a modest lithium battery.
Best for: Kayaks, canoes and small tenders.
Check price on Amazon (paid link) Specs from nautiradar.ptA brushless bow-mount motor that runs on either 24 V or 36 V. Spot-Lock holds you on a spot with GPS, Jog nudges that spot about five feet at a time, and the app shows battery level.
Best for: Bass boats and larger fishing boats that hold on structure.
Check price on Amazon (paid link) Specs from woo.gpscentral.caA wireless bow-mount motor with Pinpoint GPS for anchoring, jog, heading lock and cruise control, on a composite shaft built to flex instead of break. Sold in freshwater and saltwater versions.
Best for: Boats where you want hands-free GPS control at a lower price than flagship motors.
Check price on Amazon (paid link) Specs from sportsmans.comGarmin’s brushless bow-mount motor with anchor lock and saltwater corrosion protection. Pairs with Garmin chartplotters.
Best for: Saltwater and big-water boats running Garmin electronics.
Check price on Amazon (paid link) Specs from defender.comNo products match those filters. Try clearing one.
Pictures are our own illustrations, not photos of the actual products. Specs come from the manufacturer or retailer listing linked on each card and were checked in October 2026. Models and prices change, so confirm details on the listing before you buy. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.