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Top 10 MasterCraft Models 2027

Curated byKory White · Fractional CRO · Maryland

📖 2,779 words🗓️ Published Sep 13, 2026

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Direct Answer

The 10 best mastercraft models 2027 are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.

1. MasterCraft XStar S

Top 10 MasterCraft Models 2027 — figure 1

The XStar S ranks first because it is the most complete wakesurf platform MasterCraft builds, combining a 23-foot LOA, 102-inch beam, and up to 4,650 lb of integrated ballast. Its Gen 2 Surf System with DockStar handling and SurfStar auto-shaping delivers a push-button, precisely tuned wave. Power comes from an Ilmor 6.2L rated to 460 hp, with 64 gallons of fuel capacity and seating for 16.

This boat is for serious wakesurf and wakeboard families who demand the best wave and technology without compromise. It trades away affordability, with a starting MSRP of $215,000 that can push past $240,000 loaded, and its size and draft require a larger tow vehicle and slip. Compared to the XT24 below, the XStar S offers more ballast and a more refined helm, but the XT24 provides more seating.

2. MasterCraft XT24

Top 10 MasterCraft Models 2027 — figure 2

The XT24 ranks second because it delivers flagship-level surf performance in the largest, roomiest hull of the XT crossover line, measuring 24 feet 6 inches with a 102-inch beam. It carries up to 4,200 lb of ballast and seats 18, making it a true people-mover without sacrificing wave quality. The Ilmor 6.2L engine provides up to 460 hp, and its 66-gallon fuel capacity supports long days.

This boat is for big families who want premium surf features and maximum usable space, trading away the slightly larger wave and top-tier helm of the XStar S. It starts at $188,000, which is more accessible than the flagship but still a significant investment. Compared to the XT22 below, the XT24 offers 700 lb more ballast and two additional seats, but its longer, wider hull is harder to trailer and store.

3. MasterCraft XT22

Top 10 MasterCraft Models 2027 — figure 3

The XT22 ranks third because it is the brand's volume crossover and best all-rounder, offering a versatile 22-foot 6-inch hull with a 100-inch beam and up to 3,500 lb of ballast. It seats 16 and is powered by an Ilmor 6.2L delivering up to 460 hp, with 62 gallons of fuel capacity.

This boat is for all-around watersports families who want one boat to do everything well, trading away the extra space and ballast of the XT24. Its starting MSRP of $165,000 is a significant saving over the XT24, but options can add over $30,000. Compared to the XT24, the XT22 produces a slightly smaller wave and has less cockpit room, but it is more nimble and easier to handle.

4. MasterCraft NXT24

Top 10 MasterCraft Models 2027 — figure 4

The NXT24 ranks fourth because it offers flagship-style space and surf capability at a value price, with a 24-foot LOA and 100-inch beam seating up to 17. It carries up to 2,800 lb of ballast and uses the NXT Surf System to produce a genuine, rideable wave. The Ilmor 6.2L engine is available up to 430 hp, and its 57-gallon fuel tank supports extended outings.

This boat is for value-minded big families who want maximum cockpit room and surf capability without paying premium-line prices. It trades away the higher ballast, advanced tech, and refined helm of the XT and X series. Compared to the XT22 above, the NXT24 offers more seating and a lower entry cost, but it has less ballast and a simpler interior.

5. MasterCraft X24

Top 10 MasterCraft Models 2027 — figure 5

The X24 ranks fifth because it blends premium X-series refinement with serious wave-making, featuring a 24-foot LOA and 102-inch beam holding up to 4,000 lb of ballast. It seats 17 and is powered by an Ilmor 6.2L delivering up to 460 hp, with 64 gallons of fuel capacity. The Gen 2 Surf System with SurfStar and an available 15-inch helm display make it nearly as dialed as the flagship XStar S.

This boat is for buyers who want flagship-grade surf performance and premium finish without the very top price. It trades away the extra 650 lb of ballast and some advanced features of the XStar S, but at $175,000, it is a more accessible entry into the X line. Compared to the NXT24 above, the X24 offers significantly more ballast, a more refined helm, and better build quality, but it costs considerably more.

6. MasterCraft X26

Top 10 MasterCraft Models 2027 — figure 6

The X26 ranks sixth because it is the largest and most luxurious tow boat MasterCraft builds, stretching to a 26-foot LOA on a 102-inch beam and seating up to 20. It carries up to 4,500 lb of ballast and is powered by an Ilmor 6.2L to 460 hp, with a roughly 80-gallon fuel capacity.

This boat is for buyers who entertain large groups and want the biggest, most comfortable MasterCraft available, trading away affordability and easy storage. Its starting MSRP of $235,000 makes it the most expensive model, and its heavy hull requires the full power package to feel quick. Compared to the X24 above, the X26 offers more seating and a larger fuel tank, but it is more demanding to trailer and store.

7. MasterCraft NXT22

Top 10 MasterCraft Models 2027 — figure 7

The NXT22 ranks seventh because it is the best value in the MasterCraft lineup, offering a genuine surf wave at the lowest entry price of any surf-capable model. It runs a 22-foot LOA on a 96-inch beam, carries up to 2,400 lb of ballast, and seats up to 15. The Ilmor 6.2L is available up to 430 hp, with 52 gallons of fuel capacity, and the NXT Surf System delivers a real, rideable wave.

This boat is for families who want the MasterCraft experience and surf capability without the premium price, starting at $118,000. It trades away the higher ballast, advanced surf tech, and larger cockpit of the XT and X series. Compared to the X26 above, the NXT22 is far more affordable and easier to handle, but it produces a smaller wave and has a simpler helm. It is the value champion for buyers who prioritize cost-effectiveness and core performance.

8. MasterCraft NXT20

Top 10 MasterCraft Models 2027 — figure 8

The NXT20 ranks eighth because it is the most affordable MasterCraft, starting at $98,000, and the easiest to tow and store with a compact 20-foot LOA and 94-inch beam. It carries up to 1,800 lb of ballast and seats up to 13, making it a practical entry point to the brand.

This boat is for smaller families or those on a tighter budget who want a real MasterCraft tow boat, trading away the larger wave and cockpit space of bigger models. Compared to the NXT22 above, the NXT20 has less ballast, a smaller wave, and a tighter interior, but it is significantly cheaper and easier to manage. It is the smartest choice for those with limited storage or towing capacity who still want the brand's quality.

9. MasterCraft XT20

Top 10 MasterCraft Models 2027 — figure 9

The XT20 ranks ninth because it packs the XT line's premium surf tech into a compact, nimble 20-foot 6-inch hull with a 96-inch beam. It carries up to 3,000 lb of ballast and seats up to 14, offering a wave that punches above its size. The Ilmor 6.2L delivers up to 460 hp, with 52 gallons of fuel capacity, and the Gen 2 Surf System with SurfStar ensures easy wave tuning.

This boat is for buyers who want XT-grade surf technology but prefer a smaller, more maneuverable boat that is easier to store. It trades away the cockpit space and storage of the larger XT22 and XT24, but at $148,000, it is priced below them. Compared to the NXT20 above, the XT20 offers significantly more ballast and a more advanced surf system, but it costs $50,000 more.

10. MasterCraft ProStar

Top 10 MasterCraft Models 2027 — figure 10

The ProStar ranks tenth because it is the brand's dedicated direct-drive ski boat, purpose-built for a clean, flat slalom wake that is the smallest and most consistent in the lineup. It runs a 20-foot 6-inch LOA on a 92-inch beam, weighs in light, and seats up to 6. The Ilmor 6.0L delivers up to 400 hp, with 34 gallons of fuel capacity, and the center-mounted engine ensures precise tracking.

This boat is for serious slalom skiers who prioritize a flat wake over surf capability, trading away all wakesurfing functionality and passenger space. Compared to the XT20 above, the ProStar offers a far cleaner ski wake and a more focused design, but it lacks the ballast and surf system entirely. Its $128,000 starting price is a premium for a specialist boat, and its small cockpit limits social use.

How we ranked these

We measured each MasterCraft model against six weighted criteria: build quality and reliability (25%), on-water performance for wake, surf, and ski (20%), value and price (15%), comfort and layout (15%), features and tech (15%), and resale value (10%). These weights reflect what tow-boat buyers prioritize most, drawing on published data from Boating Magazine, WakeWorld, BoatTEST, boats.com, and MasterCraft's own spec sheets.

A boat that excels in one area but fails in another drops in the rankings.

We deliberately ignored marketing hype, such as peak horsepower bragging numbers, screen size alone, and trim-name badges. These factors have less impact on ownership satisfaction than ballast capacity, hull quality, and resale value. We also excluded subjective aesthetics and brand loyalty, focusing instead on measurable specs and real-world performance. This approach ensures the rankings are practical and useful for families making a significant purchase decision.

What to look for

When choosing between these MasterCrafts, focus on ballast capacity and surf system type—the Gen 2 Surf System on XT and X models produces a bigger, cleaner wave than the NXT Surf System. Match engine power (Ilmor 6.2L up to 460 hp) to your ballast load and typical water conditions. Consider hull length and beam for your storage and tow vehicle, and count real usable seats, not just the listed maximum.

Resale value is strong across the brand, but X-series models hold slightly better than NXT.

The most common mistake buyers make is overvaluing horsepower and screen size while undervaluing ballast and hull quality. A 30-hp difference matters far less than 1,000 extra pounds of ballast. Another error is choosing the biggest hull without checking slip, lift, and trailer fit. Buy based on how you'll actually use the boat—surfing, skiing, or cruising—and prioritize the features that affect daily enjoyment, not the ones that look good in a brochure.

FAQ

Which MasterCraft is the best overall for 2027?

The XStar S earns our top spot—it pairs up to 4,650 lb of ballast, the Gen 2 Surf System, an Ilmor 6.2L to 460 hp, and a hand-laid hull with the brand's best resale. It's the most complete wakesurf platform MasterCraft builds, starting around $215,000.

What is the best value MasterCraft?

The NXT22, starting near $118,000, is the value leader. It delivers a genuine surf wave, the same hand-laid hull quality as premium lines, and a family-friendly layout at the lowest surf-capable price. It's the smartest buy for families wanting MasterCraft quality without the flagship cost.

Which MasterCraft makes the biggest surf wave?

The flagship XStar S with up to 4,650 lb of ballast shapes the largest wave. The X26 and XT24 are close behind, thanks to their size and ballast capacity (4,500 lb and 4,200 lb respectively). All use the Gen 2 Surf System for optimal wave shaping.

Which MasterCraft is best for slalom skiing?

The ProStar is the dedicated direct-drive ski boat, producing the smallest, flattest, most consistent slalom wake in the lineup. It's a multi-time pro tour standard, built for competition. It seats only six and is not designed for wakesurfing.

How much does a 2027 MasterCraft cost?

Pricing runs from about $98,000 for the NXT20 to roughly $235,000-plus for the X26. Most surf-capable crossovers land between $118,000 and $215,000, depending on options. The XStar S starts at $215,000 and can exceed $240,000 loaded.

Which MasterCraft seats the most people?

The X26 is the largest model, seating up to 20. The XT24 seats up to 18, and the NXT24 seats up to 17. The XStar S seats about 16, while the ProStar is the smallest, seating only six.

What is the fuel capacity of the MasterCraft X26?

The X26 has a fuel capacity of roughly 80 gallons, the largest in the lineup. This allows for long days on the water without frequent refueling. Other models range from 34 gallons (ProStar) to 66 gallons (XT24).

Is the MasterCraft XT20 a good choice for a first-time buyer?

The XT20 is a great choice if you want premium XT features in a compact, nimble hull. It starts at $148,000, which is higher than the NXT20 ($98,000) but offers the Gen 2 Surf System and up to 3,000 lb of ballast. It's easier to store and trailer than larger models.

What engine options are available in MasterCraft boats?

Most models use the Ilmor 6.2L, available up to 460 hp. The ProStar uses the Ilmor 6.0L, up to 400 hp. The NXT line offers the Ilmor 6.2L up to 430 hp. Choose higher horsepower for heavier ballast loads and larger hulls.

Sources

flowchart TD S["Top 10 MasterCraft Models 2027"] S --> N0["1. MasterCraft XStar S"] N0 --> N1["2. MasterCraft XT24"] N1 --> N2["3. MasterCraft XT22"] N2 --> N3["4. MasterCraft NXT24"]

flowchart LR C["Top 10 MasterCraft Models 2027"] C --> H0["9. MasterCraft XT20"] C --> H1["10. MasterCraft ProStar"] C --> H2["How we ranked these"] C --> H3["What to look for"]

Related on PULSE

[More mastercraft models 2027 rankings and buying guides](/knowledge)
[PULSE Tools and calculators](/tools)
[Everything on PULSE RevOps](/)

Download:

## Direct Answer

The 10 best mastercraft models 2027 are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.

## 1. MasterCraft XStar S

![Top 10 MasterCraft Models 2027 — figure 1](/assets/qa/bt0049-b1.jpg)


```mermaid
flowchart TD
  S["Top 10 MasterCraft Models 2027"]
  S --> N0["1. MasterCraft XStar S"]
  N0 --> N1["2. MasterCraft XT24"]
  N1 --> N2["3. MasterCraft XT22"]
  N2 --> N3["4. MasterCraft NXT24"]
```


The XStar S ranks first because it is the most complete wakesurf platform MasterCraft builds, combining a 23-foot LOA, 102-inch beam, and up to 4,650 lb of integrated ballast. Its Gen 2 Surf System with DockStar handling and SurfStar auto-shaping delivers a push-button, precisely tuned wave. Power comes from an Ilmor 6.2L rated to 460 hp, with 64 gallons of fuel capacity and seating for 16.

This boat is for serious wakesurf and wakeboard families who demand the best wave and technology without compromise. It trades away affordability, with a starting MSRP of $215,000 that can push past $240,000 loaded, and its size and draft require a larger tow vehicle and slip. Compared to the XT24 below, the XStar S offers more ballast and a more refined helm, but the XT24 provides more seating.


## 2. MasterCraft XT24

![Top 10 MasterCraft Models 2027 — figure 2](/assets/qa/bt0049-b2.jpg)


```mermaid
flowchart LR
  C["Top 10 MasterCraft Models 2027"]
  C --> H0["9. MasterCraft XT20"]
  C --> H1["10. MasterCraft ProStar"]
  C --> H2["How we ranked these"]
  C --> H3["What to look for"]
```


The XT24 ranks second because it delivers flagship-level surf performance in the largest, roomiest hull of the XT crossover line, measuring 24 feet 6 inches with a 102-inch beam. It carries up to 4,200 lb of ballast and seats 18, making it a true people-mover without sacrificing wave quality. The Ilmor 6.2L engine provides up to 460 hp, and its 66-gallon fuel capacity supports long days.

This boat is for big families who want premium surf features and maximum usable space, trading away the slightly larger wave and top-tier helm of the XStar S. It starts at $188,000, which is more accessible than the flagship but still a significant investment. Compared to the XT22 below, the XT24 offers 700 lb more ballast and two additional seats, but its longer, wider hull is harder to trailer and store.

## 3. MasterCraft XT22

![Top 10 MasterCraft Models 2027 — figure 3](/assets/qa/bt0049-b3.jpg)


The XT22 ranks third because it is the brand's volume crossover and best all-rounder, offering a versatile 22-foot 6-inch hull with a 100-inch beam and up to 3,500 lb of ballast. It seats 16 and is powered by an Ilmor 6.2L delivering up to 460 hp, with 62 gallons of fuel capacity.


This boat is for all-around watersports families who want one boat to do everything well, trading away the extra space and ballast of the XT24. Its starting MSRP of $165,000 is a significant saving over the XT24, but options can add over $30,000. Compared to the XT24, the XT22 produces a slightly smaller wave and has less cockpit room, but it is more nimble and easier to handle.

## 4. MasterCraft NXT24

![Top 10 MasterCraft Models 2027 — figure 4](/assets/qa/bt0049-b4.jpg)


The NXT24 ranks fourth because it offers flagship-style space and surf capability at a value price, with a 24-foot LOA and 100-inch beam seating up to 17. It carries up to 2,800 lb of ballast and uses the NXT Surf System to produce a genuine, rideable wave. The Ilmor 6.2L engine is available up to 430 hp, and its 57-gallon fuel tank supports extended outings.


This boat is for value-minded big families who want maximum cockpit room and surf capability without paying premium-line prices. It trades away the higher ballast, advanced tech, and refined helm of the XT and X series. Compared to the XT22 above, the NXT24 offers more seating and a lower entry cost, but it has less ballast and a simpler interior.

## 5. MasterCraft X24

![Top 10 MasterCraft Models 2027 — figure 5](/assets/qa/bt0049-b5.jpg)


The X24 ranks fifth because it blends premium X-series refinement with serious wave-making, featuring a 24-foot LOA and 102-inch beam holding up to 4,000 lb of ballast. It seats 17 and is powered by an Ilmor 6.2L delivering up to 460 hp, with 64 gallons of fuel capacity. The Gen 2 Surf System with SurfStar and an available 15-inch helm display make it nearly as dialed as the flagship XStar S.


This boat is for buyers who want flagship-grade surf performance and premium finish without the very top price. It trades away the extra 650 lb of ballast and some advanced features of the XStar S, but at $175,000, it is a more accessible entry into the X line. Compared to the NXT24 above, the X24 offers significantly more ballast, a more refined helm, and better build quality, but it costs considerably more.

## 6. MasterCraft X26

![Top 10 MasterCraft Models 2027 — figure 6](/assets/qa/bt0049-b6.jpg)


The X26 ranks sixth because it is the largest and most luxurious tow boat MasterCraft builds, stretching to a 26-foot LOA on a 102-inch beam and seating up to 20. It carries up to 4,500 lb of ballast and is powered by an Ilmor 6.2L to 460 hp, with a roughly 80-gallon fuel capacity.

This boat is for buyers who entertain large groups and want the biggest, most comfortable MasterCraft available, trading away affordability and easy storage. Its starting MSRP of $235,000 makes it the most expensive model, and its heavy hull requires the full power package to feel quick. Compared to the X24 above, the X26 offers more seating and a larger fuel tank, but it is more demanding to trailer and store.


## 7. MasterCraft NXT22

![Top 10 MasterCraft Models 2027 — figure 7](/assets/qa/bt0049-b7.jpg)


The NXT22 ranks seventh because it is the best value in the MasterCraft lineup, offering a genuine surf wave at the lowest entry price of any surf-capable model. It runs a 22-foot LOA on a 96-inch beam, carries up to 2,400 lb of ballast, and seats up to 15. The Ilmor 6.2L is available up to 430 hp, with 52 gallons of fuel capacity, and the NXT Surf System delivers a real, rideable wave.

This boat is for families who want the MasterCraft experience and surf capability without the premium price, starting at $118,000. It trades away the higher ballast, advanced surf tech, and larger cockpit of the XT and X series. Compared to the X26 above, the NXT22 is far more affordable and easier to handle, but it produces a smaller wave and has a simpler helm. It is the value champion for buyers who prioritize cost-effectiveness and core performance.


## 8. MasterCraft NXT20

![Top 10 MasterCraft Models 2027 — figure 8](/assets/qa/bt0049-b8.jpg)


The NXT20 ranks eighth because it is the most affordable MasterCraft, starting at $98,000, and the easiest to tow and store with a compact 20-foot LOA and 94-inch beam. It carries up to 1,800 lb of ballast and seats up to 13, making it a practical entry point to the brand.

This boat is for smaller families or those on a tighter budget who want a real MasterCraft tow boat, trading away the larger wave and cockpit space of bigger models. Compared to the NXT22 above, the NXT20 has less ballast, a smaller wave, and a tighter interior, but it is significantly cheaper and easier to manage. It is the smartest choice for those with limited storage or towing capacity who still want the brand's quality.

## 9. MasterCraft XT20

![Top 10 MasterCraft Models 2027 — figure 9](/assets/qa/bt0049-b9.jpg)


The XT20 ranks ninth because it packs the XT line's premium surf tech into a compact, nimble 20-foot 6-inch hull with a 96-inch beam. It carries up to 3,000 lb of ballast and seats up to 14, offering a wave that punches above its size. The Ilmor 6.2L delivers up to 460 hp, with 52 gallons of fuel capacity, and the Gen 2 Surf System with SurfStar ensures easy wave tuning.


This boat is for buyers who want XT-grade surf technology but prefer a smaller, more maneuverable boat that is easier to store. It trades away the cockpit space and storage of the larger XT22 and XT24, but at $148,000, it is priced below them. Compared to the NXT20 above, the XT20 offers significantly more ballast and a more advanced surf system, but it costs $50,000 more.

## 10. MasterCraft ProStar

![Top 10 MasterCraft Models 2027 — figure 10](/assets/qa/bt0049-b10.jpg)


The ProStar ranks tenth because it is the brand's dedicated direct-drive ski boat, purpose-built for a clean, flat slalom wake that is the smallest and most consistent in the lineup. It runs a 20-foot 6-inch LOA on a 92-inch beam, weighs in light, and seats up to 6. The Ilmor 6.0L delivers up to 400 hp, with 34 gallons of fuel capacity, and the center-mounted engine ensures precise tracking.


This boat is for serious slalom skiers who prioritize a flat wake over surf capability, trading away all wakesurfing functionality and passenger space. Compared to the XT20 above, the ProStar offers a far cleaner ski wake and a more focused design, but it lacks the ballast and surf system entirely. Its $128,000 starting price is a premium for a specialist boat, and its small cockpit limits social use.

## How we ranked these

We measured each MasterCraft model against six weighted criteria: build quality and reliability (25%), on-water performance for wake, surf, and ski (20%), value and price (15%), comfort and layout (15%), features and tech (15%), and resale value (10%). These weights reflect what tow-boat buyers prioritize most, drawing on published data from Boating Magazine, WakeWorld, BoatTEST, boats.com, and MasterCraft's own spec sheets.


A boat that excels in one area but fails in another drops in the rankings.

We deliberately ignored marketing hype, such as peak horsepower bragging numbers, screen size alone, and trim-name badges. These factors have less impact on ownership satisfaction than ballast capacity, hull quality, and resale value. We also excluded subjective aesthetics and brand loyalty, focusing instead on measurable specs and real-world performance. This approach ensures the rankings are practical and useful for families making a significant purchase decision.

## What to look for

When choosing between these MasterCrafts, focus on ballast capacity and surf system type—the Gen 2 Surf System on XT and X models produces a bigger, cleaner wave than the NXT Surf System. Match engine power (Ilmor 6.2L up to 460 hp) to your ballast load and typical water conditions. Consider hull length and beam for your storage and tow vehicle, and count real usable seats, not just the listed maximum.


Resale value is strong across the brand, but X-series models hold slightly better than NXT.

The most common mistake buyers make is overvaluing horsepower and screen size while undervaluing ballast and hull quality. A 30-hp difference matters far less than 1,000 extra pounds of ballast. Another error is choosing the biggest hull without checking slip, lift, and trailer fit. Buy based on how you'll actually use the boat—surfing, skiing, or cruising—and prioritize the features that affect daily enjoyment, not the ones that look good in a brochure.

## Related questions

### What are the key differences between the MasterCraft XT22 and NXT22?

The XT22 starts at $165,000, has 3,500 lb of ballast, a 100-inch beam, and the Gen 2 Surf System. The NXT22 starts at $118,000, has 2,400 lb of ballast, a 96-inch beam, and the simpler NXT Surf System. The XT22 offers a larger wave and more premium features, while the NXT22 provides better value for budget-conscious families.

### Is the MasterCraft ProStar suitable for wakesurfing?

No, the ProStar is a dedicated direct-drive slalom ski boat designed to produce a flat, clean wake for skiing. It lacks the ballast and surf system needed for wakesurfing. If you want to surf, consider the XT22 or NXT22 instead, which are built for wake sports.

### How much ballast does the MasterCraft XStar S have?

The XStar S carries up to 4,650 lb of integrated ballast, the most in the lineup. Combined with the Gen 2 Surf System, this produces the largest, cleanest surf wave MasterCraft builds. This makes it the top choice for serious wakesurfers who want the best possible wave.

### What is the towing capacity needed for a MasterCraft X26?

The X26 is a 26-foot boat with a 102-inch beam and weighs significantly more than smaller models. You'll need a heavy-duty tow vehicle, typically a 3/4-ton or 1-ton truck, with a towing capacity of at least 8,000-9,000 pounds. Always check the boat's dry weight and trailer weight to ensure your vehicle is adequate.

### Which MasterCraft has the best resale value?

MasterCrafts generally hold value well, but the X-series models, especially the XStar S and X24, tend to have the strongest resale due to their premium build, advanced surf systems, and high demand. The NXT line offers better initial value but may depreciate slightly more over time.

### What is the difference between the Gen 2 Surf System and NXT Surf System?

The Gen 2 Surf System, found on XT and X models, uses advanced auto-shaping technology (SurfStar) to create a customizable, clean wave with push-button ease. The NXT Surf System is simpler and produces a good but less adjustable wave. The Gen 2 system is superior for serious surfers.

### Can the MasterCraft NXT20 handle wakesurfing?

Yes, the NXT20 has the NXT Surf System and up to 1,800 lb of ballast, which can shape a usable wave for smaller riders or beginners. However, it's the smallest wave in the lineup. For a better surfing experience, consider the NXT22 or higher models with more ballast.

## FAQ

**Which MasterCraft is the best overall for 2027?**

The XStar S earns our top spot—it pairs up to 4,650 lb of ballast, the Gen 2 Surf System, an Ilmor 6.2L to 460 hp, and a hand-laid hull with the brand's best resale. It's the most complete wakesurf platform MasterCraft builds, starting around $215,000.

**What is the best value MasterCraft?**

The NXT22, starting near $118,000, is the value leader. It delivers a genuine surf wave, the same hand-laid hull quality as premium lines, and a family-friendly layout at the lowest surf-capable price. It's the smartest buy for families wanting MasterCraft quality without the flagship cost.

**Which MasterCraft makes the biggest surf wave?**

The flagship XStar S with up to 4,650 lb of ballast shapes the largest wave. The X26 and XT24 are close behind, thanks to their size and ballast capacity (4,500 lb and 4,200 lb respectively). All use the Gen 2 Surf System for optimal wave shaping.

**Which MasterCraft is best for slalom skiing?**

The ProStar is the dedicated direct-drive ski boat, producing the smallest, flattest, most consistent slalom wake in the lineup. It's a multi-time pro tour standard, built for competition. It seats only six and is not designed for wakesurfing.

**How much does a 2027 MasterCraft cost?**

Pricing runs from about $98,000 for the NXT20 to roughly $235,000-plus for the X26. Most surf-capable crossovers land between $118,000 and $215,000, depending on options. The XStar S starts at $215,000 and can exceed $240,000 loaded.

**Which MasterCraft seats the most people?**

The X26 is the largest model, seating up to 20. The XT24 seats up to 18, and the NXT24 seats up to 17. The XStar S seats about 16, while the ProStar is the smallest, seating only six.

**What is the fuel capacity of the MasterCraft X26?**

The X26 has a fuel capacity of roughly 80 gallons, the largest in the lineup. This allows for long days on the water without frequent refueling. Other models range from 34 gallons (ProStar) to 66 gallons (XT24).

**Is the MasterCraft XT20 a good choice for a first-time buyer?**

The XT20 is a great choice if you want premium XT features in a compact, nimble hull. It starts at $148,000, which is higher than the NXT20 ($98,000) but offers the Gen 2 Surf System and up to 3,000 lb of ballast. It's easier to store and trailer than larger models.

**What engine options are available in MasterCraft boats?**

Most models use the Ilmor 6.2L, available up to 460 hp. The ProStar uses the Ilmor 6.0L, up to 400 hp. The NXT line offers the Ilmor 6.2L up to 430 hp. Choose higher horsepower for heavier ballast loads and larger hulls.

## Sources

- https://www.boatingmag.com
- https://www.discoverboating.com
- https://www.boattest.com
- https://www.boats.com
- https://www.wakeworld.com
- https://www.alliancewake.com
- https://www.yachtingmagazine.com
- https://www.powerandmotoryacht.com
- https://www.mastercraft.com

## Related on PULSE

- [More mastercraft models 2027 rankings and buying guides](/knowledge)
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Top 10 MasterCraft Models 2027

1. MasterCraft XStar S

2. MasterCraft XT24

3. MasterCraft XT22

4. MasterCraft NXT24

5. MasterCraft X24

6. MasterCraft X26

7. MasterCraft NXT22

8. MasterCraft NXT20

9. MasterCraft XT20

10. MasterCraft ProStar

How we ranked these

What to look for

Related questions

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FAQ

Sources

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