Simrad AP44 VRF Pack High Capacity
For big hydraulic outboard and sterndrive boats up to about 50 ft.
Amazon $3,849.99$3,849.99
The Simrad AP44 VRF Pack High Capacity is the better marine autopilot overall, rated 3.6 to 3.0. The Simrad AP44 VRF Pack High Capacity leads on features. The Raymarine EV-400 Power Pilot Pack wins on value. The Raymarine EV-400 Power Pilot Pack costs $1,050 less ($2,799.99 vs $3,849.99).
Prices were last checked November 9, 2026. Product prices and availability are accurate as of that date and are subject to change; the price and availability shown on Amazon or the retailer's site at the time of purchase apply. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Raymarine EV-400 Power Pilot Pack
For large powerboats with a heavy hydraulic drive; plan on buying the pump separately.
Amazon $2,799.99$2,799.99
Which should you buy?
- Choose the Simrad AP44 VRF Pack High Capacity for features (control head in the box, drive or pump included, heading sensor included, NMEA 2000 / SeaTalk ng vs control head in the box, heading sensor included, NMEA 2000 / SeaTalk ng).
- Choose the Raymarine EV-400 Power Pilot Pack for value ($2,799.99 for the pack vs $3,849.99 for the pack).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every hydraulic steering marine autopilot; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Simrad AP44 VRF Pack High Capacity | Raymarine EV-400 Power Pilot Pack |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.6/5 | 3.0/5 |
| Value 30% | 7 $3,849.99 for the pack | 22 $2,799.99 for the pack |
| Capability range 30% | 93 boats to 50 ft, cylinders to 550 cc | 50 boat size and cylinder range not published (neutral score used) |
| Features 25% | 100 control head in the box, drive or pump included, heading sensor included, NMEA 2000 / SeaTalk ng | 75 control head in the box, heading sensor included, NMEA 2000 / SeaTalk ng |
| Power draw 10% | 50 standby draw not published (neutral score used) | 11 300 mA standby |
| Warranty 5% | 0 warranty not published, scored as none | 25 2-year warranty |
Specifications
| Simrad AP44 VRF Pack High Capacity | Raymarine EV-400 Power Pilot Pack | |
|---|---|---|
| Capability | ||
| Steering type | Hydraulic | Hydraulic |
| Boat size | To 50 ft | - |
| Hydraulic cylinder range | 160 to 550 cc | - |
| Pack type | Complete pack | Core pack |
| In the pack | ||
| Contents | AP44 controller, NAC-3 high-current computer, PUMP-3 hydraulic pump, Precision-9 compass, NMEA 2000 starter kit | p70Rs control head, EV-1 sensor core, ACU-400, rotary rudder feedback unit, Evolution cable kit |
| Control head | AP44 | p70Rs |
| Control head included | Yes | Yes |
| Drive or pump included | Yes | No |
| Heading sensor | Precision-9 solid-state compass | EV-1 9-axis sensor core |
| Rudder feedback unit | No | Yes |
| Electrical | ||
| Supply voltage | 12/24 V | 12/24 V |
| Standby draw | - | 300 mA |
| Max drive current | - | 30 A |
| NMEA 2000 / SeaTalk ng | Yes | Yes |
| Support | ||
| Warranty | - | 2 years |
| Released | - | 2013-06 |