Title pretty much says it all. I'm looking to buy a new 15hp outboard and wondering which would be the best if price is the same? 

 

I decided to go with Mercury because that's what most of the shops in my area rep. Still not sure if I want pull or electric start though.

Ask yourself where would you take the outboard for service if required?  Would you ship it to onlineoutboards.com or take it to Bass Pro?  That's where you should buy it.   Personally,  I would look for a local marine dealer with a good reputation and buy from them if they can match the price.  

I’d even pay a bit more from a local marine dealer. 

If the choice is BPS or online, I’m going with BPS.

Is there a reason you want 15 hp in-lieu of 20 hp, same engine weight and price? 4 stroke?

Any authorized Mercury dealer will work on and/or warranty the engine. 
Do you have a TM and battery? If so get the electric start, you will thank me some cold morning.

Tom
 

5 hours ago, WRB said:

Is there a reason you want 15 hp in-lieu of 20 hp, same engine weight and price? 4 stroke?

Any authorized Mercury dealer will work on and/or warranty the engine. 
Do you have a TM and battery? If so get the electric start, you will thank me some cold morning.

Tom
 

I decided on 15hp because that's what my 12' Valco is rated for. I had thought about going with a 20 but wasn't sure if I could get in trouble for it.