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Boost

Boost unlocks more mid-range performance from your Mercury outboard with a simple software update.

Get a Boost of Performance

Boost is an exciting upgrade that increases mid-range performance from your Mercury outboard without requiring any prop or hardware changes. With an easy-to-install software update, Boost can improve acceleration from zero to top speed by 5% to 21%* to help anglers get to the fish faster and enable recreational boaters to enjoy a more spirited boating experience.


*Percentage improvements will vary based on boat type and configuration, operating conditions and other environmental factors. Upgrading to Boost does not affect the vessel’s top speed or time to plane.

Features & Advantages

Faster Acceleration

Boost’s exciting mid-range performance advantage makes getting where you’re going quicker and more fun.

Uncompromised Performance

Installing Boost won’t change your vessel’s top speed or engine performance above or below the mid-range.

Effortless Installation

Getting Boost is easy with a simple software update at your Mercury dealer. No mechanical or hardware changes are necessary.

Trusted Reliability

Engineered and tested to the same rigorous standards as every Mercury product, Boost maintains your full factory warranty after installation.

Boost Performance Data & Comparisons

Whether you’re an angler racing the competition to your next fishing spot or a recreational boater seeking smoother, more spirited cruising, Boost’s superior mid-range performance enhances your experience on the water.

Explore Boost

Freshwater Fish Application

19' Fishing Boat with Mercury V6 175hp Pro XS outboard

Accelerates up to 21% quicker from zero to top speed. Reaches top speed 2.6 boat lengths sooner.

*Percentage improvements are based on comparison testing of the same boat and engine application without Mercury SmartCraft GPS, with Boost installed and without Boost installed. Actual results will vary depending on boat type and configuration, operating conditions, and other environmental factors. Upgrading to Boost does not affect the vessel's top speed or time to plane. 

Freshwater Fish Application

20' Deep-V with Mercury V8 300hp FourStroke outboard

Accelerates up to 5% quicker from zero to top speed. Reaches top speed 0.4 boat length sooner.

*Percentage improvements are based on comparison testing of the same boat and engine application without Mercury SmartCraft GPS, with Boost installed and without Boost installed. Actual results will vary depending on boat type and configuration, operating conditions, and other environmental factors. Upgrading to Boost does not affect the vessel's top speed or time to plane.

Freshwater Fish Application

20' Deep-V with Mercury V8 250hp FourStroke outboard

Accelerates up to 8% quicker from zero to top speed. Reaches top speed 1 boat length sooner.

*Percentage improvements are based on comparison testing of the same boat and engine application without Mercury SmartCraft GPS, with Boost installed and without Boost installed. Actual results will vary depending on boat type and configuration, operating conditions, and other environmental factors. Upgrading to Boost does not affect the vessel's top speed or time to plane.

Bass Boat Application

21' Bass Boat with Mercury V8 250hp Pro XS outboard

Accelerates up to 14% quicker from zero to top speed. Reaches top speed 2.8 boat lengths sooner.

*Percentage improvements are based on comparison testing of the same boat and engine application without Mercury SmartCraft GPS, with Boost installed and without Boost installed. Actual results will vary depending on boat type and configuration, operating conditions, and other environmental factors. Upgrading to Boost does not affect the vessel's top speed or time to plane.

Offshore Application

33' Center Console with Twin Mercury V10 350hp Verado outboards

Accelerates up to 17% quicker from zero to top speed. Reaches top speed 0.9 boat length sooner.

*Percentage improvements are based on comparison testing of the same boat and engine application without Mercury SmartCraft GPS, with Boost installed and without Boost installed. Actual results will vary depending on boat type and configuration, operating conditions, and other environmental factors. Upgrading to Boost does not affect the vessel's top speed or time to plane.

How Boost Works

Boost engages automatically when the engine’s throttle position exceeds 97% below 5000 rpm and when the throttle is advanced rapidly enough to trigger activation of the feature. Boost is active only during mid-range acceleration and does not affect the engine’s peak horsepower rating or the vessel’s maximum top speed.

Optimization Tips

To experience Boost’s full potential, ensure the boat is set up with the optimal prop selection and weight distribution. Mercury technologies such as Active Trim can further optimize performance by automatically adjusting trim for better efficiency. Environmental factors such as weather, water conditions and onboard weight can also affect how Boost engages and performs.

GPS Enhancement

Vessels equipped with Mercury SmartCraft GPS enable more precise Boost activation and disengagement for optimal performance

Engine Compatibility

Boost is installed on Mercury outboards manufactured in Q2 of 2026 for the following models:  

  • 175, 200, 225, 250 and 300hp Pro XS 
  • 250, 300 and 350hp Verado 
  • Mercury Racing 150R 

with: Boost is a dealer-installed upgrade coming soon to these Mercury outboards:

  • 175, 200, 250 and 300hp FourStroke (serial number range starting at 2B529482) 
  • 175, 200, 225, 250 and 300hp Pro XS (serial number range starting at 2B529482)  
  • 250 and 300hp Verado (serial number range starting at 2B529482)  
  • 350hp Verado (serial number range 3B266064 to 3B578266)
  • Mercury Racing150R (serial number range starting at 3B547096) 

Get Boost

Your local Mercury Authorized Dealer can install Boost on any compatible Mercury outboard by updating the engine’s software calibration. Find a dealer near you to purchase.