TBM 850 vs TBM 960
The TBM 960 leads, topping 4 of 7 compared metrics.
Cross-shopping the Daher (TBM) TBM 850 (introduced 2006) against the Daher (TBM) TBM 960 (introduced 2022) is a common decision, and the two sit closer on paper than the badges suggest. Both are turboprops, which makes them natural cross-shopping rivals. On paper they are closely matched, so the decision usually turns on cabin, economics and availability. Below we compare them spec by spec, then break down which aircraft suits which mission.
6 more specs per aircraft — ceiling, climb, cabin, dimensions and more — are free with an account.
TBM 850 vs TBM 960: the key differences
- The TBM 960 delivers 4% more range (TBM 850: 1,665 nm; TBM 960: 1,730 nm).
- The TBM 960 delivers 3% more cruise speed (TBM 850: 320 kt; TBM 960: 330 kt).
- The TBM 850 and TBM 960 are evenly matched on passenger capacity, both at 6 seats.
- The TBM 960 is the newer design (introduced 2022 versus 2006 for the TBM 850), a gap of 16 years that usually shows up in avionics, cabin systems and fuel burn.
Which mission suits which aircraft
Both aircraft are built for regional and short-to-medium legs, so outright range rarely separates them — the call leans on cabin (the TBM 850 seats more), trip economics and what is actually available on the market. Match the airframe to how you fly most weeks, not to the headline range figure.
Which should you choose?
Choose the TBM 960 when nonstop range is the deciding factor, and the TBM 850 when cabin capacity and payload matter more; the TBM 960 holds the cruise-speed edge. The right answer ultimately depends on acquisition cost, maintenance-program status, and what is actually available on the market — talk to our acquisition advisory team to pressure-test the choice against your missions and budget.
TBM 850 vs TBM 960: FAQs
Which has the longer range, the TBM 850 or the TBM 960?
The TBM 960 has the longer published range — 1,730 nm versus 1,665 nm for the TBM 850.
Which is faster, the TBM 850 or the TBM 960?
The TBM 960 cruises faster, at 330 kt versus 320 kt for the TBM 850.
Which is newer, the TBM 850 or the TBM 960?
The TBM 960 is the newer design, introduced in 2022 versus 2006 for the TBM 850.
Should I buy the TBM 850 or the TBM 960?
Choose the TBM 960 when nonstop range is the deciding factor, and the TBM 850 when cabin capacity and payload matter more; the TBM 960 holds the cruise-speed edge. The right answer ultimately depends on acquisition cost, maintenance-program status, and what is actually available on the market — talk to our acquisition advisory team to pressure-test the choice against your missions and budget.
Still weighing up the TBM 850 vs TBM 960?
Specs only take you so far. Our advisors give an independent recommendation based on your mission, budget and how you actually fly — and represent your side through to purchase.