Product comparison
Raymarine EV-200 vs EV-400: Sail Drive Selection
Compare Raymarine EV-200 and EV-400 sail installations by drive requirements, loaded displacement, control unit and quote scope for Australian yachts.
- Option 1
- Raymarine EV-200 Sail
- Option 2
- Raymarine EV-400 Sail
Choose between these systems by the required drive and its electrical demand. Both belong to Raymarine’s Evolution family, but an EV-400 label does not establish the displacement rating of every drive that can be paired with it.
Calculate loaded displacement and have the installer inspect steering geometry and structural mounting. Then identify the exact actuator, ACU and pack part number. This prevents a drive-excluded equipment price from being mistaken for a complete sailing installation.
Side by side
Raymarine EV-200 vs EV-400: specifications and installation
| Criterion | Raymarine EV-200 Sail | Raymarine EV-400 Sail |
|---|---|---|
| Actuator control unit | ACU-200 in the EV-200 system | ACU-400 in the EV-400 system |
| Typical sail pack distinction | EV-200 Sail offered with Type 1 mechanical linear drive | Drive selection depends on the specified EV-400 configuration |
| Displacement check | Complete Type 1 mechanical linear package is rated to 11,000 kg | Use the selected drive’s loaded-displacement rating, not a universal EV-400 number |
| Shared planning | EV-1 placement, supported controls and SeaTalkng network | EV-1 placement, supported controls and SeaTalkng network |
| Quote requirement | Identify whether the drive is included | Identify exact drive, voltage, mounting scope and all excluded equipment |
Specifications and installation scope from manufacturer documentation. Any AUD prices shown are indicative; confirm current package contents and installed costs with a dealer.
Which should you choose?
Choose if
Which autopilot configuration suits your boat?
Choose Raymarine EV-200 Sail if…
- The selected drive and loaded yacht are within the ACU-200 system limits
- The complete pack meets the steering and voltage requirements
Choose Raymarine EV-400 Sail if…
- The required compatible actuator calls for ACU-400 capability
- The larger installation scope has been structurally and electrically assessed
Choose from the required drive, not the package number
Provide the installer with the loaded displacement, steering geometry and proposed drive details. Ask which Evolution configuration supports that drive and its requirements. EV-400 should not be treated as an automatic improvement for every boat that could use an EV-200.
Compare exact product codes and contents. An EV-200 or EV-400 package name alone does not establish that the quote includes the actuator, all feedback components or the mounting work. Request a complete parts list before comparing equipment prices.
Review the full scope of an EV-200 upgrade
If replacing an existing EV-200 configuration, record why the change is being considered: drive suitability, a fault, altered vessel requirements or a different steering installation. Have the underlying issue assessed before buying a larger controller; replacing electronics alone may leave the original problem unresolved.
Ask which sensors and controls can remain, what supply or wiring changes are required and how the installation will be commissioned. Retain the compatibility assessment and final parts list. The best choice is the supported complete system for the boat, with a clear service and handover plan.
Questions
Raymarine EV-200 vs EV-400: frequently asked questions
Will EV-400 steer a small yacht better than EV-200?
A larger controller alone does not establish better steering. Correct drive sizing, inputs, installation and setup remain essential.
Can I use advertised maximum boat weight without checking the drive?
No. Displacement limits belong to the specified drive and installation. Confirm the exact pack and loaded boat.
Manufacturer sources for this comparison
Source-based comparison checked 20 September 2026. No comparative sea trial is claimed.
Autopilot training after installation
The best pack badly understood is a worse autopilot than a modest one used well. A half-day handover covers modes, override, alarms and a failure drill.