MotorGuide Xi3 vs Minn Kota Edge
Two popular trolling motors on the market are Minn Kota’s Edge and a direct competitor in Motorguide’s Xi3.
Today, I delve into the nuances of both of these trolling motors, guiding you to make an informed buying choice for your skiff.
This comprehensive comparison sheds light on their similar features, notable differences, and I’ll throw in some compatibility and integration considerations for you.
Common Features
These are the base model trolling motors from MotorGuide and Minn Kota, and as such, neither one has the “bells and whistles” offered by the more expensive and competent models.
When choosing an electric trolling motor for kayaks or small boats, we consider various essential attributes. I find that both the MotorGuide Xi3 and Minn Kota Edge provide valuable features to meet the needs of avid and recreational anglers alike. Here’s a clear breakdown:
| Feature | MotorGuide Xi3 | Minn Kota Edge |
| Mounting Position | Bow Mount | Bow Mount |
| Thrust (lbs.) Options | 45, 50, 70 | 45, 55, 70 |
| Voltage | 12V, 24V | 12V, 24V |
| Motor Type | Brush | Brush |
| Item Weight (45-inch shaft) | 45 pounds | 44 pounds |
| Shaft Length (inches) | 36-inch, 45-inch, 50-inch | 36-inch, 45-inch, 52-inch |
| Shaft Durability | Combined Composite and Stainless Shaft | Indestructible Composite Shaft |
| Steering Type | Cable (certain models) and Tiller Steer | Cable and Tiller Steer |
| Control Type | Foot Control Only on smaller models (Digital Hand Control is available with 55 lbs. of thrust) | Cable-Steer Foot Pedal or Hand Tiller |
| Control | Foot Pedal | Cable-Steer Foot Pedal |
| Foot Pedal | Cable | 18-inch cable |
| Foot Pedal Style | Heel-Toe Operation /Cable | Heel-Toe / Cable |
| Direction Indicator | Included | Included |
| Auto Stow and Deploy | No | No |
| Power Steering | No | No |
| Autopilot | No | No |
| Battery Indicator | Yes | No |
| Digital Maximizer | Yes | No |
| Assisted Deploy and Stow System | Manual | Manual |
| Propellor | 3 blade weedless | 2 blade weedless |
| Fresh Water Use | Yes | Yes |
| Salt Water Use | Yes | No |
| Warranty | 2-year limited | 2-year limited |
| Mounting Bracket | aircraft-grade extruded aluminum | Universal |
| GPS Features | No | No |
| Fish Finding Technology | No | No |
🔑 Key Similarities
In terms of warranty and customer service, both manufacturers maintain service centers in the United States and provide phone support, distinguishing their customer care quality.
They ensure that obtaining replacement parts, accessing repair centers, and utilizing warranties are straightforward processes.
Additionally, steering with the foot pedal offers convenient heel-toe operation and a responsive cable mechanism. This design balances anglers’ needs for responsive control and advanced technology, maintaining high quality and durability in trolling motors.
Notable Differences
While they may look similar on paper, the Edge and the Xi3 have several differences regarding factors such as ease of use and durability.
Speed Control Systems
I find the variable speed control on the MotorGuide Xi3 to be significantly more precise than the incremental settings on the Minn Kota Edge.
Even though the Edge features a 5-speed forward and 3-speed reverse system, the infinite speed control and Digital Power Management technology of the Xi3 stand out, providing more control and efficient battery usage.
Thrust Power Supplied
The smallest and largest models of the MotorGuide Xi3 and the Minn Kota Edge supply an identical thrust value (45 lbs. and 70 lbs.) The mid-level model Minn Kota supplies 55 lbs. compared to the MotorGuide Xi3 (50 lbs.)
While 5 pounds may seem marginal, it could be crucial depending on the angling conditions and your boat’s requirements.
Available Shaft Lengths
The shaft length of a bow-mounted trolling motor is calculated by measuring the distance from the mounting surface of the bow to the water surface. Once you have this measurement, add 20 inches to get the recommended minimum shaft length.
| MotorGuide X3 | Minn Kota Edge | |
| Shaft Length (inches) | 36-inch, 45-inch, 50-inch | 36-inch, 45-inch, 52-inch |
The longest shaft length available for the Edge is 52 inches and 50 inches for the MotorGuide Xi3.
The rule of thumb is that if you are fishing in rough water, you should add 5 inches to the trolling motor’s shaft length. This may be another factor that pushes you towards the Minn Kota Edge.
Stowing and Deployment
Manual stow and deploy methods mark both the Xi3 and Edge.
Minn Kota’s latch and door design features a traditional pull-rope system and weighing 44 pounds, manually stowing and deploying it doesn’t pose much of a challenge.
The MotorGuide has a simple manual stow and deploy. The motor weighs 45 pounds, which most anglers can manage,
For anglers favoring sturdiness, the Minn Kota Edge might present a slight advantage.
Battery Life Enhancements
The digital power management system of the MotorGuide Xi3 can enhance battery life and extend the boat’s range, which is particularly effective compared to the more traditional energy efficiency in the Minn Kota Edge.
The lack of an equivalent system in the Edge may lead you to consider the Xi3 a better option in terms of battery life efficiency.
The Trolling Motor Prices
Budget often plays a significant role, and the MotorGuide Xi3 usually offers more competitive pricing on the lower-end models.
However, discounted prices on the higher-end model of the Minn Kota Edge might sway some anglers to prefer the Minn Kota when shopping for a 70-pound thrust motor.
Also consider you may need one or more electric trolling motor batteries, a battery charger and a circuit breaker.
Compatibility And Integration
Transducer Options
Unfortunately, those seeking to integrate transducers with either the MotorGuide X3 or the Minn Kota Edge will find no compatible options.
These models prioritize simplicity and cost-effectiveness, so they do not support additional transducer attachments.
Shaft Lengths
The efficiency of a trolling motor greatly depends on choosing the right shaft length. I can confirm that both models offer a variety of shaft lengths to suit different conditions:
- Short Shaft: Best for shallow waters
- Medium Shaft: Ideal for average depth waters
- Long Shaft: Necessary for deep water conditions
Chartplotter Compatibility
When it comes to navigation enhancements, it’s important to note that neither the MotorGuide Xi3 nor the Minn Kota Edge have support for integrating chartplotter systems.
They are designed to be straightforward, standalone trolling motors, focusing more on core functionalities rather than advanced GPS features.
My Final Verdict
Being a fan of Minn Kota, I was a little surprised at my choice of which motor offers the better value offer.
My considered opinion is that the MotorGuide Xi3 offers the best value for money. The digital battery management system adds range and longevity to the battery system.
It doesn’t harm theXi3’s case that it costs less for the two lower-power models. In this regard, if you prioritize budget-friendliness, the MotorGuide Xi3 may be the better option for the two smaller models.
However, if you are a fan of the Minn Kota brand (and many anglers are), the differences between the two products are not so great that you will be forced to change your loyalties.
Another benefit of the Minn Kota Edge’s simplicity is that the user-friendly design makes it a great choice for beginners and recreational boaters.
