The updated software on the 25 Alpha helped the cleanliness and consistency. This software was updated in September last year and is retroactive so it can be used on all 25 Alpha models. The 25 wave is massive. It can be taller and longer than the 23 wave with extra weight on board. The 25 more surface area so the more weight and people you bring on the better and better it gets. Stock with 2 people on board will still throw a 23 wave. The 23 Alpha I think is a more consistent wave time and time again no matter how much weight or where people are sitting. It really comes down to how you will use the boat, if you're taking out a lot of people or need a dryer boat for large lakes that get rough I would go 25. If you don't need the extra room or freeboard then the 23 is a wave workhorse.