If you are considering purchasing a four-wheeler or side-by-side and are unsure of which is best for you: an ATV or UTV, you have come to the right place. I have researched this topic and have found 21 pros and cons to help you choose.
21 Pros and Cons for Choosing the Best Vehicle for You:
As promised, I will be listing the pros and cons of each vehicle to help you make your decision. However, first, it is important to know the difference between the two vehicles.
ATV stands for “All Terrain Vehicle.” This vehicle is smaller and often only has one seat. An ATV is typically seen racing around in rough terrain. This vehicle is uncovered.
In contrast, a UTV or “Utility Task Vehicle” is covered. This vehicle often sits 2-6 people. The UTV has a back carrying capacity.
These two vehicles are separate, yet they are often confused with each other. An ATV and UTV are both great buys, yet used for different reasons.
The 21 Pros and Cons for Choosing the Best Vehicle:
X= Pro Blank=Con
| ATVs | UTVs | |
| Pricing | X | |
| Size | X | X |
| Weight | X | |
| Racing | X | |
| Hauling | X | |
| Lifestyle | X | X |
| Trailer Size | X | |
| Seating | X | |
| Steering | X | |
| Terrain | X | |
| Maneuverability | X | |
| Hunting | X | X |
| Towing Capacity | X | |
| Storage | X | |
| Safety | X | |
| Accessories | X | |
| Footprint | X | |
| Your Location | X | X |
| Showing Off | X | X |
| The feeling | X |
1. Pricing
The winner: ATVs
It is common that UTVs will be several thousand dollars more than ATVs. In this day and age, we have made a lot of progress. Both vehicles are very high tech and advanced.
However, UTVs tend to cost more for these advancements. There are more features to enjoy with the price.
Yet, in the end, we all want something within our price range. A few thousand dollars isn’t easy to give up.
The prices for ATVs and UTVs vary depending on the brand. However, the general rule is that UTVs will be more expensive.
Some UTVs will be a cheaper price. This is likely because the vehicle is lacking is some form of its capacity. However, the highest qualities for the ATVs and UTVs are very distant.
Just for comparison of prices within the same brand, I will compare Polaris and Cam-Am ATVs and UTVs.
Polaris and Cam-Am are both top tier brands that make high-quality and well-liked vehicles for both ATV and UTVs.
| ATVs | UTVs | |
| Polaris | $7,000 -13,000 | $10,500- 31,000 |
| Cam-Am | $2,000 -15,000 | $10,000 – 30,000 |
As you can see, there is some overlap between the two. The highest and lowest quality vehicles match up.
There is a huge difference between the lowest and highest price. Budgeting to save up for one of these vehicles would take significantly longer for a UTV.
2. Size
The winner: depends on your purpose
The ATV is much smaller than a UTV. This is good for when you need to go through tight spaces or make quick turns.
Although ATVs are smaller, they still use up a lot of physical energy to ride.
UTVs are larger than ATVs. This can be a pro for the concern of safety. This general size will help protect you while you are driving better than an ATV could.
The sizes for UTVs and ATVs vary even within the vehicle itself.
For UTVs, there are some labeled as sports or rec-utility. The sizes will vary based on the indication of which UTV you want.
Also, within these categories, there is still a variance of the number of seats. Obviously, the more seats there are, the larger the vehicle will be.
UTV Sizing
| Length (in) | Width (in) | |
| Sport | 117- 123 | 64 |
| 60″ Sport | 106-119 | 60 |
| Rec- Utility | 116-118 | 58-63 |
| 4 Seat Sport | 134-149 | 64 |
The ATVs are quite smaller than the smallest of the UTVs. The smallest UTV here is the 60″ sports.
However, a common ATV sizing would be around 40- 60″ by 30-45″. This is quite dramatically smaller than the UTV. Notice, that the length and widths are closer together in almost a square.
Whereas, the UTV is very distinctively a triangle. These sizings give the UTV and ATV completely different styles and look.
3. Weight
The winner: ATVs
The ATV is much lighter than a UTV. Because the vehicle is smaller, it is,
Depending in your turf, you may not want to be to extreme of an impact. Because the ATV is lighter, it will have less impact on your turf.
The UTV being larger and therefore heavier has more of an impact. This is not necessarily a bad thing as long as you’re riding somewhere with strong turf.
For me growing up, we would ride our UTV on our lawn. My mother was very particular about the lawn looking good. So, we would have to be extra careful to not tear it up.
The weights between an ATV and UTV, just like the sizing vary dramatically.
UTV weights
| Dry Weight (lbs) | |
| Sport | 1,300- 1,510 |
| 60″ Sport | 1,074- 1,297 |
| Rec-Utility | 1,287- 1,544 |
| 4 Seat Sport | 1,300- 1,600 |
ATV weights
| Dry Weight (lbs) | |
| 50CC | 210- 225 |
| 200CC | 350-456 |
| 400CC | 372- 645 |
| 500CC | 405-791 |
| 700CC | 400- 809 |
| 1000CC | 772-927 |
With ATVs, the higher the CC count is, the more powerful and large the vehicle will be. As you can see, the heaviest of the ATVs is still lighter than the lightest of the UTVs.
Now, this does not seem like it would be that big of a deal seeing how you don’t need to lift the vehicle. However, the weight will impact the damage done below the vehicle.
4. Racing
The winner: ATVs
The design of the ATV is suitable for racing. Because of its lightweight frame, the ATV can easily race.
This can be taken in another way a racing to complete a day’s worth of tasks. The ATV is also quick for this too.
This is not to say that you cannot use a UTV for the purpose of racing. However, you would probably want your component to be another UTV rider to escape the unfair advantage.
5. Hauling
The winner: UTVs
The very biggest pro that the UTV has is hauling. This is one thing that the ATV is not even close to beating.
The whole purpose of a UTV is to be able to haul around things. Its capacity to haul heavy and many things are much greater than the ATV.
However, an ATV can haul around things with a trailer attached. The ATV is not designed for this purpose, so it may not work as great, but it is effective.
From experience, hauling with a trailer attached to an ATV, you will want a good connection. Any time I went over a bump, I ran the risk of my trailer detaching. Make sure your attachment and trailer are high-quality if you are going this route.
Behind your UTV, there is what looks like a truck’s bed. This is also referred to as the cargo bed for your UTV.
In general, your cargo bed should be able to carry from 1,000 to 2,000 pounds. This is quite a large number for most any task. Basically, your cargo bed will be able to do almost any hauling job you need.
An ATV, on the other hand, will not be able to carry as much weight. At its highest capacity, the ATV trailer will not be able to haul as much weight as the lowest capacity of a UTV cargo bed.
When you buy an ATV trailer, it should specify its weight capacity. Make sure you do not go over its carrying capacity.
6. Lifestyle
The winner: depends on your purpose
The number of seats that your vehicle holds may affect your decision. The ATV is common to have one seat. So, if you are interested in the riding solo, this is the vehicle for you.
However, if you more of an outgoing person, that wants to be surrounded by people, a UTV would suit you better. This way, you can ride with friends.
There are guidelines to riding around your UTV or ATV. So, make sure you choose the right one for you from the start. You wouldn’t want to be fined for riding a one-person ATV with two people on it.
7. Trailer Size
The winner: ATVs
A common experience that you will have as an ATV or UTV owner is toting around the vehicle to its destination.
The ATV will not require as large of trailer size to be toted around. A 4′ by 8′ trailer will do the trick. However, a larger trailer size would be needed for a UTV.
If you do not think this is something you will need to do, then do not let this affect your decision. But, if you will be using a trailer to tote around your vehicle, know its size.
8. Seating
The winner: UTVs
The two types of seating for an ATV and UTV are completely different. Not only are there is a different number of seats, but different seating types.
With an ATV, you will be seated like a saddle, while on a UTV, you will be seated like a bench.
This is a pro for the UTV simply because it is easier. It is also more inclusive towards those who may have bodily problems with saddle seating.
Personally, I like to use saddle seating more. I feel more in charge. But, overall bench seating is better fitted for everyone.
9. Steering
The winner: UTVs
Although there are some outliers within this concept, almost
Meanwhile, UTVs use a steering wheel that is similar to a car or truck.
I named the UTV as the owner of this pro because this steering system is more known are easy to use. The handlebar system is harder to control.
“I like being able to “ride” not “drive.” And the ATV being able to move your body around and control your weight distribution is awesome around corners as opposed to relying on throttle control for fun around corners.”
ATV user from Washington
In my experience, the handlebar system can be difficult to manage. For instance, my sister in law, who is very petite has a hard time bringing an ATV to a full turn.
When you turn with an ATV handlebar system, you really use your entire body. The experience can be similar to pulling weights at the gym.
After a long time of riding with an ATV, you will feel it in your arm muscles. It is certainly easy to learn how to use though. The idea itself is quite simple, however, executing it can be very difficult.
On the other hand, the UTV with its steering wheel is very simple to use. The turning is simple and you do not need a stronger person to operate the machine.
10. Terrain
The winner: ATVs
Of course, the ATV is better for the terrain. After all, it is named an “All Terrain vehicle.”
The ATV is more suitable for any terrain. It can handle tougher and seemingly unsuitable terrain.
Meanwhile, the UTV is not meant to go through as rough of terrain. It is a better fit for easier terrain.
Some terrain that people ride an ATV on can be very extreme. People will go riding through what looks like just giant piles of rocks.
This is possible with an ATV. However, with a UTV, you will have extra baggage that does not work so well for the terrain. A UTV is more clunky in these scenarios.
11. Maneuverability
The winner: ATVs
Just as with any vehicle, the smaller the vehicle is, the easier it is to maneuver. This applies to ATVs being easier to maneuver.
The ATVs have an easy time going through tight spaces they can also turn easier, and alter speeds better.
This does not count as much as a con for the UTV. The UTV can still maneuver well. But, it is clunkier than the ease of an ATV.
12. Hunting
The winner: depends on your purpose
It is no secret that an ATV or UTV is a great vehicle to have to go hunting with.
However, both can make a great hunting companion. The UTV is better if you need to carry lots of hunting gear and have other people.
Yet, the ATV is a great option to go through the terrain. In the end, you know what you need for your personal hunting situation.
A major reason that people will use an ATV or UTV to go hunting will be to bring back what they get. If you are after large animals, then the UTV is the way to go.
However, if the terrain you are going through to get to your hunting spot is rough, your UTV may not be able to go through.
“If you hunt with a buddy there’s nothing better than the UTV. Being able to toss game in the dump box and sit side by side is a much nicer way to travel around.
UTV user from new york
13. Towing Capacity
The winner: ATVs
The ATV is a surprising winner for this pro. The ATV actually has a great towing capacity, despite its size.
The placement of the tow is an important factor in its towing ability. The ATVs tow is placed in the perfect spot to tow with full power.
Meanwhile, the UTVs tow is useful. Yet, it is placed farther away from all the tires. This makes it less powerful.
14. Storage
The winner: UTVs
Often times while you are riding your ATV or UTV, it will be for a specific activity. This will most likely require storage.
A UTV has far more storage than an ATV. The UTV can have cab and bed storage, in which you can place large items.
Meanwhile, some ATVs only have a tiny storage space that fits a few phones and nothing more.
My favorite use of the UTVs storage has been packing a fun picnic and going in the middle of the woods to eat it.
15. Safety
The winner: UTVs
The general frame of the UTV is designed to be safer. Rather than being opened, it is more closed and safe.
UTVs most often have safety features such as a roll-cage, seat belts, and windscreen. You can also add on options to make your UTV safer.
The ATV is more open and susceptible to danger. Although you will be wearing a helmet and goggles, etc, you may want more safety.
It is your decision towards if you want to factor in safety or cost more because the safety features cost money.
16. Accessories
The winner: UTVs
There are simply more accessories available for a UTV. I think that the layout of the UTV has a lot to do with the ability to add things.
This is a good thing if you’re wanting to show off, or simply want to have a better riding experience.
There are still some accessories available for ATVs, however, they are limited.
Some of the most common accessories that are often bought with a UTV are a windshield, winch, dry box, and rearview mirrors.
A winch is a great accessory to have because it allows you to connect things like a snow plow. IT also allows you to tow other people and be towed out of a spot you are stuck in.
Windshields are great to buy in order to resist the surrounding weather. They are also another great safety measure. The windshields can be full or half, covering different areas.
Dry boxes are also a great accessory for both an ATV or UTV. They allow you to have all the things you need in a box to keep protected during the ride.
There are many more accessories that can be bought. But, accessories are just great to add on to a fantastic riding experience.
17. Footprint
The winner: ATVs
The impact on the environment may be more or less important, depending on what matters most to you.
Yet, if this is an important factor for you, then it is good to know that the ATV has a smaller footprint.
A con of UTVs is that they have a larger footprint. This footprint is not as bad as other vehicles. Yet, there is still a larger footprint.
Hopefully, the environmental footprint does not completely scare you away from buying. Both ATVs and UTVs are worth it for the experience.
18. Your Location
The winner: depends on your location
You have likely already noticed this. However, the town or city you are from has a favorite between ATVs and UTVs.
It is beneficial to have other people around you with the same type of vehicle because they make become good friends and help you out.
For my town, ATVs were much more common. UTVs were hardly ever seen around town.
Whatever it is in your town may affect your decision towards what is best for you. In this case, it is beneficial to go with the crowd.
Unfortunately, I do not know what it is like in your town specifically. But, my guess is that if you look closely, you will know which vehicle your town leans towards.
19. Showing Off
The winner: depends on your purpose
Let’s all just admit it, we will never get over showing off our new toy. There’s a reason people talk about their ATVs and UTVs so often.
With their accessories, UTVs are more visibly easy to show off. You can show off the gadgets and accessories you have on your UTV.
However, when you are riding around, the ATV is very visually pleasing. It looks very “cool” and rides fast.
20. The Feeling
The winner: ATVs
As you are riding an ATV or a UTV, you will experience a completely different feeling.
With an ATV, you will feel the air on your skin. The openness of the vehicle makes you feel very connected to nature.
Yet, with the UTV, the best way I can explain it is as a safari experience. You see many great things, but you’re not completely in it.
For me, I think that the ATV wins this pro because you can ride it with the feeling you would expect. Yet, there is nothing wrong with the feeling you get from riding a UTV.
If you want to experience the feeling for yourself, it is a good idea to go to your local shop and test drive each of these vehicles.
“Riding an ATV is the closest experience you can have on a vehicle to
Nicole Cervantesbeing in nature. You feel every bump, the air, and each tree limb that falls on you.”
21. Your Opinion
The winner: what do you think?
In the end, my opinion does not mean much. The importance of each of these pros and cons will be different for each person.
Whatever is a significant factor to your choice making, keep that with you while choosing if an ATV or UTV is better for you.
Everyone rides their ATV or UTV for different reasons. Figure out which one works best for what you want to do.
Ask yourself:
- What will I be doing with this vehicle?
- Do I need lots of storage space?
- Where will I be riding this vehicle?
- Who will be riding this vehicle with me, if anyone?
- Why do I want this vehicle?
My Personal Choice:
If you are wondering what my personal choice between ATV and UTV is, the answer is ATV. I have had experience with both vehicles and loved them both.
However, for my needs, I have been better off with an ATV. An ATV is a good size to go through the smaller trails that I like. And, mine has a larger seat to be able to fit two people, which is a nice perk.
Overall, I don’t think that you can go wrong with either choice of UTV or ATV. This is as long as you are not getting the vehicle for a specific purpose. If there is a certain reason you need the vehicle, then make sure the details of the vehicle match your purpose.
For me, I do such small tasks with the ATV that I did not need a very sturdy carrying capacity. Buying an ATV and a trailer was cheaper and I was still able to haul things around. The price of the vehicle has a significant impact on my choices.
So, seeing how both vehicles are still great buys, I choose the ATV. However, I had major hauling needs or I need multiple people in one vehicle, I would get an ATV.
Comparing these two vehicles is like comparing a regular car and a truck. They are both great and are used similarly. However, they have different functions.
Related Questions:
What is an ATV and what is a UTV? ATV is an abbreviation for “All-terrain vehicle.” This is commonly known as a four-wheeler. The ATV is often smaller with only one seat. UTV is an abbreviation for “Utility Task Vehicle,” commonly known as a side-by-side. This vehicle is larger with more hauling capacity and often 2-6 seats.
How much can a UTV tow?A UTV cargo bed can hold up to 1,000 pounds. The towing capacity can also go up to 2,000 pounds. This is also variable on the UTV itself. Some UTVs will have more or less towing capacity. An ATV can also tow smaller weights with a trailer attached.
What’s the difference between an ATV and a 4 wheeler?An ATV and a 4 wheeler are the same vehicle. ATV stands for an “All Terrain Vehicle.” 4 Wheeler is just a common term used to talk about the ATV, like a nickname. However, if you are going to purchase a 4 wheeler, you will likely want to search for ATVs.