Best Boating Autopilots of 2026

Mike Davis Avatar
Mike Davis
Last Updated: Jan 5, 2025

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Boating autopilots are a must-have for any serious boater, whether you're out on the open ocean or navigating a busy marina. These systems use advanced technology to take over the helm, allowing you to relax and enjoy your time on the water without worrying about steering. From simple, standalone systems to advanced models that can be integrated with your boat's existing navigation and control systems, there's an autopilot out there to suit every boater's needs. Some models even offer features like collision avoidance and advanced route planning, making them an essential tool for any boater looking to stay safe and in control on the water.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Garmin Reactor 40 Kicker Autopilot Cover #TOP 1
Garmin Reactor 40 Kicker Autopilot
ftb score rating icon 9.8
MAGNETOE Reactor 40 Kicker Autopilot Cover #TOP 2
MAGNETOE Reactor 40 Kicker Autopilot
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Garmin Reactor 40 Kicker Autopilot Cover #TOP 3
Garmin Reactor 40 Kicker Autopilot
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Boating Autopilots

#TOP 1

Garmin Reactor 40 Kicker Autopilot

010-00705-95
Black
Garmin Reactor 40 Kicker Autopilot Cover
Garmin 010-00705-95 Reactor 40 Kicker Autopilot Without GHC 20 Control/Display

The Garmin Reactor 40 Kicker Autopilot is designed for boats with small gasoline outboard motors up to 20 horsepower. It can help you maintain heading hold and route to keep you on course, even against wind, waves or heavy current. The autopilot comes with a floating handheld remote control that has a bright, sunlight-readable display. You can easily fine-tune the autopilot throttle setting with the touch of a button to quickly drop to idle speed when netting a fish. The autopilot is easy to install and can be integrated with GHC 20 autopilot display, compatible Garmin chartplotters or NMEA 2000 network-compatible GPS system.

What We Like
Helps maintain heading hold and route to keep you on course, even against wind, waves or heavy current
Comes with a floating handheld remote control with a bright, sunlight-readable display
Easy to fine-tune autopilot throttle setting with the touch of a button to quickly drop to idle speed when netting a fish
Easy to install and integrate with GHC 20 autopilot display, compatible Garmin chartplotters or NMEA 2000 network-compatible GPS system
Specially designed for boats with small gasoline outboard motors up to 20 horsepower
#TOP 2

MAGNETOE Reactor 40 Kicker Autopilot

MAGNETOE
010-02794-09
Black
MAGNETOE Reactor 40 Kicker Autopilot Cover
MAGNETOE Reactor 40 Kicker Autopilot with GHC 50 Autopilot Instrument, 010-02794-09, for Garmin

The MAGNETOE Reactor Autopilot is an ideal solution for your small gasoline-powered boat. With its user-friendly design, you can easily adjust the autopilot throttle settings with just a button press, making your boating experience smoother. When paired with a compatible Garmin chartplotter, you gain effortless control over your autopilot functions, enhancing your navigation capabilities. Additionally, the ability to quickly manage throttle control means you can focus more on enjoying your time on the water without the hassle of constant adjustments. This product comes with a limited one-year warranty for added peace of mind.

What We Like
Easy throttle adjustments
Compatible with Garmin chartplotters
Smooth navigation experience
One-year warranty
#TOP 3

Garmin Reactor 40 Kicker Autopilot

Generic
010-02794-09
Multicoloured
Garmin Reactor 40 Kicker Autopilot Cover
Reactor™ 40 Kicker Autopilot with GHC™ 50 Autopilot Instrument - 010-02794-09 for Garmin

The Garmin Kicker Autopilot is designed to enhance your boating experience with its advanced features. The integrated GHC 50 Autopilot Instrument allows you to navigate effortlessly, giving you more time to enjoy your surroundings. Made from high-quality materials, this autopilot ensures durability and reliability on the water. Weighing in at 17.57 lbs, it is manageable for installation and operation. With a focus on customer satisfaction, you can trust this product to meet your boating needs and provide a seamless experience.

What We Like
High-quality materials
Easy navigation
Durable and reliable
Lightweight design
#TOP 4

Garmin Pilot, Reactor 40, SmartPump v2

GAR.010-00705-78
Garmin Pilot, Reactor 40, SmartPump v2 Cover
Pilot, Reactor 40, SmartPump v2, w/o GHC

The Garmin Reactor 40 Autopilot is a high-grade boating autopilot system designed to provide precise and reliable control for your vessel. With its patented Shadow Drive technology, you can stay in control even when the autopilot is engaged. This feature ensures that you maintain the ultimate authority over your vessel's steering, giving you peace of mind and enhancing safety. The Reactor 40 Autopilot also boasts a durable design that offers an extended lifespan, minimizing the need for frequent replacements. Additionally, its minimal commissioning and calibration requirements make it easy to set up and start using. This autopilot system effectively reduces heading error, course deviation, rudder movement, and power consumption, resulting in a smoother and more efficient boating experience.

What We Like
Precise control
Extended lifespan
Easy setup
#TOP 5

Raymarine EV-100 Autopilot

T70152
Raymarine EV-100 Autopilot Cover
Raymarine EV-100 Wheel Evolution Autopilot

The Raymarine EV-100 is a wheel autopilot system designed specifically for sailing vessels. It offers automatic steering control, allowing you to enjoy a more relaxed sailing experience. With its straightforward installation and setup, you can quickly get back to your adventures on the water. This system is suitable for wheel-steered sailboats weighing up to 16,500 lbs, ensuring that you can rely on its precise and dependable performance. By using the EV-100, you can enhance your sailing experience, allowing for smoother navigation and less manual steering effort.

What We Like
Easy installation
Automatic steering control
Precise navigation
Supports large sailboats
#TOP 6

Garmin Pilot Comp. Reactor 40

GAR.010-00705-06
Garmin Pilot Comp. Reactor 40 Cover
Garmin Pilot, Comp. Reactor 40, w/Pump, No Disp

The Garmin Pilot Reactor 40 is a boating autopilot that offers a seamless and hassle-free experience on the water. With minimal commissioning and calibration required, this autopilot is easy to install and get started with. It effectively minimizes heading error, course deviation, rudder movement, and power consumption, allowing you to maintain a steady course without manually holding the wheel. Whether you're cruising or fishing, this autopilot provides relief and convenience by taking care of the steering for you. Its flexible mounting options make it adaptable to different boat setups, and the quick and easy commissioning process ensures a smooth user experience. With the Garmin Pilot Reactor 40, you can enjoy your boating adventures without the worry of constantly adjusting your course.

What We Like
Easy installation and commissioning
Minimizes heading error and course deviation
Relieves you from manually holding the wheel
#TOP 7

Garmin Reactor 40 Autopilot

010-02794-07
Garmin Reactor 40 Autopilot Cover
Garmin Compact Reactor 40 Hydraulic Autopilot with GHC 50 Instrument Pack, 010-02794-07

The Garmin Reactor 40 is a reliable autopilot system designed to enhance your boating experience. With its GHC 50 instrument pack, you can enjoy precise steering control, allowing you to navigate with ease. This system is particularly beneficial for long journeys, as it reduces the physical strain on you, letting you relax while the autopilot manages the course. Additionally, the compact design ensures it fits seamlessly into your boat without taking up too much space, giving you more room for your gear. Experience the convenience and safety that the Garmin Reactor 40 can bring to your next adventure on the water.

What We Like
Precise steering control
Reduces physical strain
Compact design
Enhances boating experience
#TOP 8

Garmin Reactor 40 Autopilot Pack

010-02794-02
Garmin Reactor 40 Autopilot Pack Cover
Garmin Reactor™ 40 Mechanical/Retrofit/Solenoid Corepack w/GHC™ 50 Autopilot Instrument Pack

The Garmin Reactor Autopilot is designed to enhance your boating experience with its advanced features. This autopilot instrument pack includes a mechanical retrofit and solenoid corepack, allowing for seamless integration with your existing systems. With the GHC 50 display, you can easily monitor and control your autopilot, improving navigation efficiency. This system is particularly beneficial for those who want to reduce manual steering, making long trips more comfortable and enjoyable. Overall, the Garmin Reactor Autopilot simplifies your time on the water, letting you focus on the journey ahead.

What We Like
Easy integration with existing systems
Enhanced navigation efficiency
Comfortable long-distance cruising
Intuitive display for control
#TOP 9

Simrad AP44 Autopilot Pack

DSI-049
Simrad AP44 Autopilot Pack Cover
Simrad Simard AP44 Vrf High Capacity Autopilot Pack

The Simrad AP44 Autopilot is designed to enhance your boating experience with advanced electronic solutions. It offers reliable communication systems, ensuring you stay connected while navigating. Its energy solutions are efficient, helping you conserve power during your trips. Additionally, the system is built to withstand cold environments, making it ideal for various weather conditions. With these features, you can enjoy a smoother and more efficient journey on the water, allowing you to focus on the adventure ahead.

What We Like
Reliable communication systems
Efficient energy solutions
Cold-resistant design
Enhanced navigation experience
#TOP 10

Garmin Reactor 40 Autopilot

S0006
Garmin Reactor 40 Autopilot Cover
Garmin Compact Reactor 40 Hydraulic Autopilot with GHC 50 and Shadow Drive Technology Pack, 010-02794-08

The Garmin Reactor 40 is an advanced autopilot system designed for boating enthusiasts. It features the GHC 50 display, which provides clear and easy-to-read navigation information, helping you stay on course with confidence. The Shadow Drive technology allows you to take control of the steering instantly, ensuring safety and responsiveness while you navigate. This system enhances your boating experience by reducing the stress of manual steering, allowing you to relax and enjoy your time on the water. With its user-friendly interface and innovative features, the Garmin Reactor 40 makes every journey smoother and more enjoyable.

What We Like
Advanced navigation display
Instant steering control
Reduces steering effort
User-friendly interface
Enhances boating experience
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is there an autopilot for boats?

Yes, there are autopilot solutions available for a wide range of power, sail, and fishing boats. These include self-contained tiller pilots and the innovative self-calibrating Evolution autopilot series, providing options to suit various boating applications.

2. How much does autopilot cost on a boat?

The cost of an autopilot for a boat can vary depending on the specific components and features. As an example, a full system with a Navico brain, Lecomble & Schmitt drive, on-deck controls, and possibly a wireless control can cost around US$6000. However, it's important to note that prices may differ based on different brands and models.

3. How do boat autopilots work?

Boat autopilots consist of a navigational component that processes information from the boat's compass or GPS, along with other electronic navigation devices. This information is then used to control a mechanical system that moves the boat's rudder or steering gear, keeping the boat on the desired heading.

4. How do you get autopilot on a boat?

Using an autopilot on a boat is straightforward. After putting the vessel on the desired heading, you hold the course for a few seconds, press the AUTO button, and release the helm. The autopilot system will then take over and maintain the set heading.

5. What are the control elements of an autopilot?

An autopilot typically consists of four control elements: 1. Sensing unit 2. Autopilot computer 3. Autopilot servo 4. Command unit These components work together to process navigation information and accurately control the boat's steering.

6. Does autopilot need GPS?

While autopilots do not necessarily require GPS, many newer models utilize GPS for improved steering accuracy. GPS provides essential information to the autopilot, allowing it to make precise course corrections. Autopilots can also operate using VOR or navigation mode without GPS, but GPS input enhances their functionality.

7. Is autopilot on a boat worth it?

Having an autopilot on a boat can be highly beneficial. It takes over the helm, allowing the captain to relax and enjoy the journey while maintaining a consistent course. Autopilots can effectively compensate for changes in wind and current, ensuring the boat stays on the desired heading. This feature provides convenience and enhances the overall boating experience.

Editor's Notes

During our boating autopilot research, we found 24 boating autopilot products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 3,165 customer reviews through our big data system to write the boating autopilots list. We found that most customers choose boating autopilots with an average price of $2,311.27.

The boating autopilots are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of boating autopilots, including Garmin, MAGNETOE, Raymarine, Simrad. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 93 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Mike Davis Avatar

Mike Davis is a professionally trained electrician with six years of working experience in the electronics industry. He has written an array of web and mobile-based articles for e-magazines and blogs. He loves trying out some novel and popular gadgets and his expertise is in the areas of electronics and computers which is built over many years of working and personal experiences.