When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the Checkmate Convincor 300 2013 and the Checkmate ZT 244 2009 are deep vee designs with fiberglass construction — the buying decision usually comes down to a handful of practical questions: how many people are you putting on the water, how far do you trailer, and what does your tow vehicle weigh?
Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Checkmate Convincor 300 2013 measures 29,7 feet overall (2013), giving it roughly 5,7 additional feet of deck space compared to the Checkmate ZT 244 2009 at 24,0 feet (2009). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Checkmate ZT 244 2009 tips the scales at 375 lbs — 322 lbs less than the Checkmate Convincor 300 2013 at 53 lbs. That difference is meaningful if you're working within a half-ton or three-quarter-ton truck's tow rating, especially once you factor in a motor, gear, and fuel.
The Checkmate ZT 244 2009 tops out at 525 hp. Engine specs for the Checkmate Convincor 300 2013 aren't listed — confirm with a dealer before selecting an outboard.Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Checkmate Convincor 300 2013 carries 13 gallons versus 8 gallons in the Checkmate ZT 244 2009. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
Bottom line: The Checkmate Convincor 300 2013 at 29,7 ft is the right call if deck space, comfort, and entertaining are top of your list. The Checkmate ZT 244 2009 at 24,0 ft wins on trailering ease, likely lower purchase price, and simpler docking — a solid choice for a buyer who wants more boat for less money.