A tiller outboard is steered and throttled from a handle on the motor itself; a remote outboard is controlled from the helm with a steering wheel, a throttle and shift control box, and cables. Tiller motors are simpler, cheaper and suit small boats where you sit at the back. Remote motors suit boats with a console, where you want to sit forward and keep the weight balanced. Some small outboards are sold in both versions, and certain tiller models can be converted to remote with the right kit.
Tiller vs remote at a glance
| Tiller | Remote | |
|---|---|---|
| Control | Handle on the motor | Steering wheel, control box and cables |
| Typical boats | Jon boats, small skiffs, inflatables, kickers | Center and side console boats, bass boats, pontoons |
| Cost | Lower | Higher: motor plus controls, cables and steering |
| Seating and balance | Operator at the stern | Operator forward, better weight balance |
| Fishing | Easy precise control at low speed | Comfortable for longer runs |
What it costs in practice
As one example from our catalog, a Tohatsu 15 HP tiller model starts at $2,890.00, while a Tohatsu 15 HP remote bundle is $3,968.99. The remote bundle includes the remote-control setup described on its listing; check each listing for exactly what is included.
Can you convert a tiller outboard to remote?
Many mid-size outboards can be converted with a manufacturer kit that adds shift and throttle cable attachments, plus a control box, cables and a steering system. Small portables often cannot. Conversion costs add up, so for a new purchase it is usually simpler to buy the remote version. Check the manufacturer’s options for your model.
Which should you choose?
- Small boat, simple use, tight budget: tiller.
- Console boat or longer runs: remote.
- Kicker motor: tiller, or a remote kicker linked to the main motor’s steering.
Tiller extensions and comfort
Tiller motors at 20 HP and above can be tiring to steer on long runs, and a tiller extension lets you sit further forward for better balance in a small boat. If you often run long distances or carry passengers, a remote setup is more comfortable; if you fish alone and stay close to home, a tiller keeps things simple.
Shaft length and starting
Whichever control style you choose, match the shaft length to the transom and decide on electric or pull start; see outboard shaft length guide and electric vs pull start. If your remote motor will not shift properly, see outboard won’t go into gear.
Browse outboard motors by horsepower and see what size outboard do I need?
More guides: Mercury outboard model codes.
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