2027 Polaris Sportsman 500 vs 600: Which ATV Fits Your Needs?

If you are shopping for a new Polaris ATV for 2027, the Sportsman 500 and Sportsman 600 may look close enough to make the decision confusing. Both are full-size, single-rider Sportsman models built for work and trail use, but Polaris positions them at different points in the lineup.

The short answer is simple: the 2027 Sportsman 500 is the lower-priced entry point, while the 2027 Sportsman 600 adds power, capability, storage, and a broader range of trims. The better choice depends on how much work you expect the ATV to do and which features matter on your property or trails.

2027 Polaris Sportsman 500 vs 600 at a Glance

Feature	Sportsman 500	Sportsman 600
Starting US MSRP	$6,999	$7,999
Advertised horsepower	33 HP	44 HP
Ground clearance	11.5 inches	11.5 inches
Width	Check the selected trim	48 inches
Position in lineup	Entry-level full-size Sportsman	Step-up utility and trail model

These figures are based on Polaris's 2027 model information as of October 2026. Equipment and specifications can vary by trim, so always confirm the exact configuration before buying.

What Is New About the Sportsman 500?

The 2027 Sportsman 500 is a new model in the current lineup and starts at $6,999 US MSRP. Polaris lists a 33-horsepower engine, 11.5 inches of ground clearance, LED headlights, a 2,500-pound winch, independent rear suspension, and five gallons of storage among its highlighted features.

Polaris describes the 500 as its most affordable full-size ATV. That makes it a practical place to start for riders who want a full-size machine for property work, trail riding, or general recreation without immediately moving into the higher-priced trims.

For more model-specific details, see our 2027 Polaris Sportsman 500 specs, accessories, and license plate bracket guide. If you are comparing it with the model it effectively follows in the lineup, read Did Polaris Replace the Sportsman 450 With the Sportsman 500?

What Is Different About the Sportsman 600?

The 2027 Sportsman 600 starts at $7,999 US MSRP and is advertised with 44 horsepower, 11.5 inches of ground clearance, and a 48-inch width. Polaris also highlights up to 11 gallons of sealed storage, a 1,350-pound towing capacity, On-Demand AWD, and multiple available trims and feature packages.

The Sportsman 600 name also needs some explanation. Polaris states that the 600 is the same vehicle previously known as the Sportsman 570. The new model name does not indicate a larger-displacement engine, and Polaris says there is no significant change to engine size, horsepower, or performance from the prior 570 solely because of the rename. Parts and accessory compatibility remain the same according to Polaris.

That background matters when you shop for accessories, because many listings and installation guides may still use the Sportsman 570 name. Our Sportsman 570 vs 600 explanation covers the naming change in more detail.

Which Model Is Better for Work?

The Sportsman 500 can handle property chores and recreational use, but the 600 offers more advertised horsepower and towing capability. Riders who regularly pull a trailer, move heavier loads, plow snow, or want more trim choices may find the Sportsman 600 better suited to their work.

The 500 remains attractive when purchase price and straightforward ownership matter more than maximum capability. Its standard winch, full-size layout, and independent rear suspension give it useful equipment without requiring the step up to the 600.

Which Model Is Better for Trail Riding?

Both models provide 11.5 inches of ground clearance, so the decision is not based on clearance alone. The Sportsman 500 focuses on accessible full-size capability, while the 600 adds power and offers more feature choices across its trim range.

For tighter trails, the Sportsman 600's advertised 48-inch width is worth noting. For either ATV, the best choice also depends on local trail-width rules, tire selection, rider experience, and the equipment included on the exact trim.

Do the Sportsman 500 and 600 Use the Same License Plate Bracket?

Elite Engineering lists both the Polaris Sportsman 500 and Sportsman 600 among the compatible applications for our rear-facing 4x7 plate bracket. The bracket mounts to existing rear-frame mounting points, holds a standard 4x7 OHV or motorcycle-style plate, and installs without drilling or cutting on compatible applications.

Because rear bumpers, shocks, and aftermarket accessories can change the available mounting area, compare your ATV with the product photos before ordering. This is especially important when the machine has an aftermarket rear bumper or other rear-frame accessories.

Shop the Polaris Sportsman 500/600 rear 4x7 license plate bracket.

Which One Should You Buy?

Choose the 2027 Sportsman 500 if:

• You want the lower starting price.
• You need a full-size ATV for lighter property work and trail use.
• The 33-horsepower platform and standard equipment meet your needs.
• You prefer a simpler entry point into the Sportsman lineup.

Choose the 2027 Sportsman 600 if:

• You want more advertised horsepower.
• You expect to tow or handle more demanding work.
• You want access to a wider range of trims and available technology.
• You already know the Sportsman 570 platform and want its 2027 successor.

Final Takeaway

The Sportsman 500 and 600 serve different buyers. The 500 gives riders a more affordable route into a full-size Sportsman, while the 600 provides more power and capability for heavier work and longer days on the trail. Compare the exact trim specifications, then choose the machine that fits the jobs you actually plan to do.

Whichever model you choose, plan your registration-plate mounting before adding rear bumpers or cargo accessories. A model-specific rear-frame bracket can keep the plate in a clean, rear-facing position without relying on a bulky universal clamp.