When on a budget, an ATV is the right choice. At its most basic level, a SxS/UTV is more costly due to the safety features included in its design. Plus, when it comes to customizing the side-by-side vehicle, the variety of modifications possible—such as audio system and LED lighting—increases the price tag significantly.

The beauty of an ATV is that it’s small enough to bring along with you, anywhere you go. No need for large trailers, here! You can effortlessly set it up in the bed of a pickup truck and store it away just as easily.

In terms of weight, an ATV is lighter than a SxS/UTV. This makes all the difference when it comes to the type of turf you plan on riding on. If you’re riding on a strong turf, both vehicles run great. But when it comes to soft turf, you’ll maybe want to have a vehicle like an ATV, which has a little bit less of an impact on the terrain below it.

An ATV’s size and design make it easy to hop on and off. This is super handy when it comes to doing tasks that require you to stop and go often. Compared to a SxS/UTV, where you need to set yourself up before rolling out, a four-wheeler takes no time to get on and get moving.

Compared to an ATV’s one-to-two seating capacity, SxS/UTVs are designed to have more people along for the ride. With its side-by-side seating, it allows for two to three passengers at the front, and depending on the model, a couple more in the back thanks to a second row of seats.

Due to its large size and bigger engine, side-by-side vehicles have a heavier payload capacity, which allows these rides to carry not only more equipment, but bigger and heavier ones as well. Depending on your use of the vehicle, having a ride like the Can-Am Traxter that has a towing rating of 3,000 lb can be a game changer.

If you plan on making modifications to your off-road vehicle, the side-by-side vehicle is the way to go. Not only does its design make it easy to add on more accessories, but there is much more of a selection of customizations available for this type of vehicle. Many SxS/UTV riders spend a great deal of cash on ways to personalize their ride and enhance its performance to their liking. Can-Am has an awesome accessory lineup for side-by-side vehicles, too! You can test out what a customized SxS looks like with accessories right away with our Customize Your Own tool.

If you have safety at the top of mind, then a SxS/UTV is what you want. Compared to an ATV’s open design, side-by-side vehicles are more closed with a barrier. SxS/UTV are also commonly known to have features like a roll cage, seat belts and windscreen that protect riders and passengers from the elements. Plus, you can add on many more safety customizations that match your comfort level.

A SxS/UTV’s car-like design and driving controls make it a comfortable choice that caters to all riders, no matter the skill set or body capability. Quads, on the other hand, are more physically demanding to drive and require a lot of balance to control the vehicle. If comfort is an issue for you, then it’s a side-by-side vehicle all the way.

ATVs and side-by-side vehicles are both useful hunting vehicles for different reasons. It all depends on the terrain and the type of hunting you expect to be doing. If you’re planning on hunting in areas with dense timber and brush or that require passing through unpredictable terrain, a four-wheeler is your ride of choice. On the other hand, if you’re looking to hunt big game with a group of people and need to lug around equipment, a SxS/UTV is much more suitable. Learn more about how to choose the best ATV or SxS/UTV for your hunting style.

There is always use for an off-road vehicle on a farm. An ATV and SxS/UTV are great utility options for this type of work environment. But depending on the situation, one proves to be more practical than the other. For example, if you need to carry along large cargo, haul equipment or tow heavy loads like trailers, a side-by-side vehicle is definitely the way to go. If your idea of farm work is moving around from one job to the next with minimal cargo in tow, a quad will do the job nicely. Learn more about how to choose the best ATV or SxS/UTV for farm use.

If you plan on taking an off-road ride with family or a group of friends, a side-by-side vehicle is what you want to aim for. Its ability to carry up to six passengers and multiple safety features not only makes it an optimal choice, but a safe one too. Even older adults can join in on the fun! SxS/UTVs definitely make it possible to share outdoor adventures with others.

Both vehicles are designed to ride off the beaten path, so trail riding is no issue. It just depends on what kind of trail you expect to ride on. If hard-to-reach areas with narrow gates and obstacles are more up your alley, then an ATV would be best. If you’re into adventuring in the wild more comfortably with equipment and any other objects you might need, you’ll find that a side-by-side vehicle is better suited to your needs.

No matter what vehicle you decide to get, you’ll want to go out into the snow much more often. Both ATVs and SxS/UTVs are awesome tools to use in the winter season. They’re fun and powerful, have great traction and definitely get jobs done. If you’re not a fan of the cold, a side-by-side vehicle like the Can-Am Defender Limited may be more your style, as its cab enclosure can shelter you from frigid wind and snow. If you don’t mind the outdoor elements one bit, then an four-wheeler like the Can-Am Outlander will do you just fine. Learn how to choose the best ATV or SxS/UTV for plowing snow and winter riding.

If you want to feel the thrill by riding in some deserts or rocky hills, you’ll want an off-road vehicle that can handle it. Side-by-side sports models are designed for these types of terrain as they have powerful engines and innovative suspension. The Can-Am Maverick SxS models are made for these fun and wild environments, with trims and all.