There are advantages and disadvantages to both - the choice is usually a
personal decision.
The size/type of boat is a consideration as well: an inboard is not
practical in a 12' jon boat.
A reason contributing to my choice of sterndrive for a 19' bowrider was the
opinion of several owners I spoke to, who said they didn't know much about
such things and were just as happy to have the engine in a box, out of view.
Some point out that a sterndrive takes up interior space. That's not always
significant: the engine box is my runabout has drink holders in it and is a
good place to mount rod holders, small trays to hold sunblock lotion,
handheld radio, flashlight, etc. It also becomes part of a crosswise lounge
seat when at anchor or beached.
Sterndrives tend to be quieter and more fuel efficient.
Outboards are supposedly less expensive to work on because they are easier
for mechanics to access.
I've also added a second battery (with a combiner) and battery selection
switch to my boat, as I have added radar, direction finding, GPS, 2 fixed
mount VHF radios, additional lighting and 12 volt outlets. It was easy to do
with a sterndrive; I don't know how easy to would be with an outboard

"ed" wrote in message
...
This is probably a stupid question, but im still learning about boats and
have learn a lot from this group. How does one choose if they should get a
boat with a inboard or an outboard ? What are some of the things that a
person should consider when purchasing ? Is one better than the other ?

Thanks
Ed