The PlayCraft FX4 FishDeck 20 2012 is a planing design and the PlayCraft Ultra 2500 OB 2011 is a pontoon design, so you're likely deciding between two noticeably different on-water experiences. Hull type shapes everything from ride quality and fuel burn to dock handling and resale trajectory.
Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The PlayCraft Ultra 2500 OB 2011 measures 25,0 feet overall (2011), giving it roughly 5,0 additional feet of deck space compared to the PlayCraft FX4 FishDeck 20 2012 at 20,0 feet (2012). At 2 000 lbs and 1 975 lbs respectively, both sit in a similar weight class - either should pair comfortably with most mid-size SUVs and half-ton trucks, though always confirm your specific tow rating with the motor added.
The power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 200 hp, the PlayCraft FX4 FishDeck 20 2012 has a 50-hp advantage over the PlayCraft Ultra 2500 OB 2011's 150-hp ceiling - enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the PlayCraft Ultra 2500 OB 2011 carries 103 gallons versus 70 gallons in the PlayCraft FX4 FishDeck 20 2012. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The PlayCraft Ultra 2500 OB 2011 is rated for 15 passengers, while the PlayCraft FX4 FishDeck 20 2012 caps at 10. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the PlayCraft Ultra 2500 OB 2011 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the PlayCraft Ultra 2500 OB 2011 if your priority is putting more people on the water - it handles 15 passengers and at 25,0 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The PlayCraft FX4 FishDeck 20 2012 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 10 that costs less to run day-to-day.