Grady-White Freedom 285 has an unobtrusive anchoring system, whereas Grady-White Freedom 307 comes with a SeaV2 hull. The first one has a higher top speed than the latter.
But, its cruising speed transom deadrise is lower than the second one.
When it comes to saltwater dual console boats, Grady-White Freedom is one of the best series. You can use them for lounging, cruising, and relaxing. If you are feeling puzzled about selecting between Grady-White Freedom 285 or 307, we can help you choose the best one.
A Quick Comparison Table
| Specifications | Grady-White Freedom 285 | Grady-White Freedom 307 |
| Special Technology | Unobtrusive anchoring system | SeaV2 hull |
| Maximum HP | 600 (448 kW) | 700 (522 kW) |
| Top Speed | 54.6 MPH | 50.2 MPH |
| Optimum Cruise | 29.5 MPH | 30.2 MPH |
| Fuel Capacity | 214 gal. (810 l) | 234 gal. (886 l) |
| Weight w/o Engines | 6500 lb. | 8350 lb. |
| Transom Deadrise | 19 degrees | 19.5 degrees |
| Hull Color | Six options | off-white |
| Durability | Good | Better |
| Cost | Slightly lower | Higher |
Key Difference Between Grady-White Freedom 285 And 307 Boat
- Special Technology
Grady-White Freedom 285 comes with an unobtrusive anchoring system to provide increased protection for the gel coat located under the bow hatch.
Contradictorily, Grady-White Freedom 307 is equipped with a time-tested SeaV2 hull to enjoy soft, stable, and dry rides. Its hull works as a deflector to knock down the spray.
Both boats have Yamaha outboard technology to ensure consistent and top-notch performance.
Since Grady-White Freedom 307 is the latest model, it comes with a VHF receiver and AM/FM tuner.
Also Read: Differences Between Chaparral And Cobalt Boats.
- Maximum HP
A decent is needed for dual console boats to handle nastier conditions and cruise offshore effortlessly. Grady-White Freedom 285 has a maximum of 600 HP.
In opposition, Grady-White Freedom 307 comes with a maximum rating of 700 HP. So, you can enjoy more speed and make your riding exhilarating.
Increased horsepower means more torque. You can control the boat effortlessly even in rough weather due to higher maneuverability and better counter-intuitiveness.
- Top Speed
Boats from Grady-White Freedom are notorious for providing satisfactory acceleration even at top speed. Grady-White Freedom 285 can produce 54.6 MPH top speed.
Contrarily, Grady-White Freedom 307 has a maximum speed of 50.2 MPH. However, it can depend more or less on the unpredictable rough-water conditions.
Furthermore, handling dual console boats at top speed will be tricky when you want to make it plane quickly. It can take a generous amount of time.
But avoid running your boat at full speed frequently. Apart from eating up the fuel quickly, it will wear off the engine over time. Running boats at full throttle adds extreme pressure on them.
- Optimum Cruise
When it comes to optimum cruise, engine RPM, speed, and GPH are the top factors that matter the most.
Usually, the ideal RPM for crushing is 3400 to 3800.
The optimum cruise rating is 29.5 MPH, whereas Grady-White Freedom 307 has a 30.2 MPH rating.
Since the first one is a larger racing yacht, it has a slightly more cruising speed.
Maintaining a balanced cruising speed is better to get more economic advantage. More fuel will be consumed if you go too high or too low at the optimal speed.
- Fuel Capacity
The fuel capacity determines how often you need to refill the fuel. Usually, 300 Yamaha Four-Stroke engines burn 1 gallon of fuel for every ten horsepower usage.
Grady-White Freedom 285 has a 214-gallon fuel capacity. Oppositely, Grady-White Freedom 307 can carry up to 234 gallons of fuel.
However, the fuel burning of 307 will be faster than 285 due to its increased weight and bulky size. Both boats can go 0.5 to 2 miles per gallon based on different conditions.
- Weight w/o Engines
Usually, boats from Grady-White are relatively lightweight than many other brands. Grady-White Freedom 285 weighs around 6500 lb.
Its reduced weight ensures lower inertia. Getting the top speed is easygoing due to its lightweight construction. This will affect your boat performance and handling positively.
On the flip side, the Grady-White Freedom 307 weighs 8350 lb. Due to its larger size, it is heavier than 285. But its powerful motor can still ensure a decent speed.
However, the top speed will not be the same as the Grady-White Freedom 285. Nevertheless, both units have optimal stability and balance with proper weight distribution.
- Hull Color
Grady-White Freedom 285 is available in 6 color choices, such as Sand Gelcoat, Cape Gray, Harbor Blue paint, Cape Gray, etc. These colors are practical choices for both indoor and outdoor areas. They can last for a decent period with minimal color degradation.
On the other hand, Grady-White Freedom 307 has only a standard off-white color. But you can customize the finish if you want.
Nevertheless, most people the premium off-white color, which adds a vibrant look to the boat. It adds an enchanting appearance that is super-lasting.
- Transom Deadrise
A transom deadrise is the physical angle pattern of a boat between the bottom section and the horizontal point. A preferable deadrise value is 20 to 21 degrees.
However, the manufacturer needs to maintain a balance while shaping THE dead rising point. Grady-White Freedom 285 has 19 degrees deadrise rating.
On the contrary, Grady-White Freedom 307 comes with a 19.5 degrees rating. This angle value is crucial for determining how effectively a boat can run.
It can also directly or indirectly affect how appropriately the boat can cut through rougher seas. Usually, a larger rating is better as it can ensure softer riding.
- Durability
The lifespan of dual console boats can be anywhere from 5 to 40 years or even a lifetime. It usually depends on your maintenance approach and the boat’s quality.
Though both units are made from the same brand, Grady-White Freedom 307 will last longer than Grady-White Freedom 285. Its engineering approach is more practical.
Apart from handling rough water conditions effectively, it can take a load of more weight. Plus, it has powerful dual engines. Hence, additional weights will not affect its performance.
- Cost
Grady-White Freedom 307 has double the price of Grady-White Freedom 285. Its huge size and powerful motor make it an expensive pick.
But it is worth the price you invest. Whether you want day-boating activities or fishing, the boat is versatile to suit all purposes. It can accommodate a large number of people.
You will surely like its eye-catchy off-white color that has premium gel coat paint to ensure super durability. Hence, it will require minimal maintenance.
Also Read: Jeanneau 409 Or 419 Sailboat.
Which Dual Console Boat Is The Best For You?
Dual console boats are usually huge in size. But Grady-White Freedom 307 is relatively larger than Grady-White Freedom 285.
Before choosing a particular option, determine how many people you want to accommodate inside the boat.
Grady-White Freedom 285 appears good if you want to accommodate a limited number of people and prefer a faster speed and lightweight boat. Conversely, the Grady-White Freedom 307 is a better choice if you want advanced features and provide space for a large number of people.
Here is a Grady White Freedom 307 walkthrough for you.
Final Thought
Both saltwater dual console boats can be the perfect choice for entertainment and lounging space. You can use them for leisure and group boating with cushioned seating.
However, Grady-White Freedom 307 appears a better choice than the Grady-White Freedom 285 for its huge size.
It can be an excellent long-term investment for lounging, cruising, and relaxing. The unit can accommodate a large number of guests at a time. Hopefully, you got a clear idea of Grady-White Freedom 285 vs. 307 and which is the best one between these two.
