ATV winches have become an essential tool for plowing snow during winter. With a plethora of options available in the market, choosing the best one can be overwhelming. This article will review the 8 best ATV winches for plowing and highlight their features, pros, and cons to help you make an informed decision.
Which is the Best ATV winch for snow plowing?
SuperATV Black Ops is the best snow plowing winch because of powerful 3500 lb capacity, a synthetic rope that is resistant to fraying and abrasions, and a sealed motor and gearbox for reliable performance in tough conditions.
Thorough multi-level testing is done by my team to ensure the highest product standards before I recommend anything. Learn more about our process here.
Scorecard: To curate a scorecard, I considered the pull capacity needed to handle the weight, Rope quality and the durability to know the best ATV winch. Only products that scored more than 7 were chosen.
Best ATV Winches for Plowing
#2 WINCH
ZEAK 12V 3500 lb
- Easy installation
- Wireless remote control
- Comes with mounting bracket
Best winch
SuperATV Black Ops 3500 LB
- Gear ratio 166:1
- Hand straps
- Waterproof seals
#3 winch
ORCISH 12V 4500LBS
- Inductive braking
- Compatible with UTV and ATV
- No overheating problems
It is a premium ATV winch that serves a more diverse purpose than just plowing. It comes with a synthetic rope and a power of 3500lbs. It can withstand moderate loads and also handle silent ATV winching operations.
For your better maneuverability, you have the 50 feet remote range for operating this winch.
Moreover, you also get automatic brakes to grab the spool incline. The 1.2HP 12V motor produces sufficient power to smoothen the tensions with load attached to the winch.
It comes with a 50 feet synthetic rope embedded with simple aluminum hawse fairlead, which will keep it safe from wear and tear on long-term use. Hence, it can be the number one preference for you in search of the best ATV winch for snow plowing and other practices.
My opinion
Pull Capacity
Rope quality
Usability
I had the opportunity to test out the SuperATV Black Ops 3500 LB Winch Kit on my UTV, and I must say that I’m impressed. This winch offers impressive pulling power and durable construction. Its wireless remote and easy installation also make it a convenient option. However, the cable could be longer, and the instructions could be more detailed. Overall, a great choice for any ATV/UTV owner in need of a reliable winch.
Product Timeline: The winch first launched on July 24, 2017 and there has not been any change since then.
PROS
- Comes with waterproof seals across operational parts
- The gear ratio is at 166:1
- Comes with hand straps for additional safety
- Supports long-range pulling
CONS
- Remote controls are not sealed to be waterproof
When we are talking about powerful ATV winches, it would be a sin not to mention Zeak 3500lb Advanced Electric Winch in this list. People using winches on their ATVs to get done household jobs prefer Zeak as their favorite winch brand. It has the potential to just pull off any household load at ease. Hence, this makes it ideal for plowing jobs as well.
This advanced ATV winch has the potential to make a steady pull, with a magnet motor embedded with 1.1HP 12V DC capacity.
It has a powerful rated line pull that offers faster line speed even when chained with heavier loads. The kit comes with a 12.3 feet remote control range.
Zeak’s winches are often light in weight, and this specific product is no exception. It just weighs 19.4 lbs and has synthetic cable in it. It is enabled with a circuit breaker to stop the flow of electricity if any operational part is compromised. As a result, heavier damage can be prevented.
My Opinion
Pull Capacity
Rope quality
Usability
In my opinion, the ZEAK 3500 lb. Advanced 12V DC Electric Winch is a reliable and efficient winch that exceeded my expectations. Its powerful motor, durable construction, and wireless remote control make it an excellent choice for off-road adventures. The only downside is that the instructions are a bit unclear, but once installed, the winch operates flawlessly.
Product Timeline: The winch first launched on March 11, 2019 and there has not been any change since then.
PROS
- Comes with a mounting bracket
- Enabled with wireless remote control
- Easy installation
CONS
- Heats up when used for a long time
If you are in search of a winch with even higher pulling capacity for your ATV and plowing needs, then Orcish is offering you 4500lbs of pulling capacity with this product. It is the perfect product that features power, versatility, durability, and technology. This particular product comes with a synthetic winch cable, which contributes to making it light in weight.
It is embedded with a 1HP motor which is proficient to support you in plowing applications. Another thing that makes it accountable as the best ATV winch for snow plowing is its inductive braking mechanism[1]. The purpose of it is to reduce the heat while the winch is in an operational state. As a result, the motor will be able to run for a longer time without overheating issues.
The 3-stage planetary gear system projects unbelievable strength to the ATV winch and supports quiet operation as well. It also has an IP67 rating[2] that makes it resistant to water damage.
So, when you are plowing snow out of your property or from the driveway, wetness and moisture won’t damage the winch.
My opinion
Pull Capacity
Rope quality
Usability
ORCISH 12V 4500LBS Electric Synthetic Rope Winch Kit is a great choice for those looking for a reliable and affordable winch option. The synthetic rope is strong and durable, and the winch motor performs well even in tough conditions. However, the winch installation instructions could be clearer and more detailed.
Product Timeline: The winch first launched on January 6, 2019 and there has not been any change since then.
PROS
- Inductive braking cools down the motor quickly
- Compatible for both ATVs & UTVs
- Longer running capacity without overheating problems
CONS
- Wires are short in length
- Battery capacity is less
Superwinch Terra 35 is renowned as one of the best ATV winches for plowing, as it has a powerful 1.6HP motor. And this is a specification that is better than most of the other options available in the online and offline stores. It helps you pull a maximum load of 3500lbs, which will help you overcome complexities while plowing snow or flattening lands.
It is embedded with a 3-stage planetary gear system[3], which is solely made up of steel. Apart from that, the size of the gears is two times bigger than the usual ones used in most of the other winches in the market. Thus, you can conclude that you will get better output with this Superwinch Terra 35.
This product is an ideal plow winch as it can lift heavy weights off the roads easily. Moreover, it has easy mobility and supports pulling in a single line. This model comes with 55 feet of steel rope, to help you handle plowing needs even on rocky or tough terrains.
My Opinion
Pull Capacity
Rope quality
Usability
Upon testing, I felt Superwinch 1135220 Terra 35 3500lbs is a reliable and powerful winch. It has a strong synthetic rope and a sealed solenoid that ensures maximum protection from the elements. The handlebar switch allows for easy operation and the automatic load-holding brake provides added safety. The only downside is that it may be a bit noisy during operation.
Product Timeline: The winch first launched on March 5, 2010 and there has not been any change since then.
PROS
- Manufactured with dynamic breaks to handle heavier loads
- Well-protected circuit breaker to prevent critical electrical damages
- Steel planetary gear system to support robust applications
CONS
- Moisture affects the drums and it might rust
X-Bull makes heavy-duty winches and this particular product is quite reliable for ATVs and plowing applications with them. You get a waterproof 500amp solenoid valve to protect the winch from water damage. The part that makes it the best ATV winch for snow plows is its 5.5HP wound motor. It helps you with better handling while lowering the loads.
The 3-stage planetary gear system provides you with a strong gear ratio of 265:1. Spooling clutch is smoother in X-Bull’s ATV winch in comparison to most of the others in the market.
The load holding breaker operates automatically with this winch, to help you deal with your plowing job in harsh environments.
You get an 85 feet long synthetic rope to help you go on adventure trips when you are too bored of using this winch just for plowing. You can operate it either with a wired or wireless remote. Its efficiency is measured as the pull rate of 25.3 feet per minute with no-load, and 7 feet per minute with full-load.
My Opinion
Pull Capacity
Rope quality
Usability
X-Bull 12V Synthetic Rope Winch is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable and affordable winch. It’s easy to install and operate, and its synthetic rope is both strong and lightweight. However, the controller could be more durable, and the winch’s pulling power might not be enough for heavier loads.
Product Timeline: The winch first launched on January 22, 2021 and there has not been any change since then.
PROS
- Embedded with a 3-stage planetary gear system
- Enabled with automatic load-holding feature
- Ergonomic design
- Remotely operated
CONS
- Doesn’t come with a winch plow strap
- Connecting wires are not of sufficient length
Warn is popular among off-roaders and ATV riders for its high performance. And when it comes to specific plowing practices, Warn Vantage 4000-S is the perfect combination of power and feasibility to get done with the job. This winch is sealed completely from the inside out, which keeps it safe from all weather conditions.
Three-stage planetary gear system enables you to operate the machine smoothly. You can use the corded remote for controlling the winch operations from a distance. It also consists of a mechanical spring brake which has the capability of strongly holding on to the load while the winching is done.
Whether you are using this ATV winch for plowing or for off-road adventures, the 4000lbs pulling capacity will help you overcome every adverse situation. The synthetic ropes make this winch light in weight, and the mounting plates allow you to fix it to your ATV at a desirable position.
My opinion
Pull Capacity
Rope quality
Usability
I felt WARN 89041 Vantage 4000-S winch is a reliable and powerful option for any off-roading adventure. With its 4,000-pound pulling capacity and synthetic rope, it can handle tough terrain and heavy loads. The sealed construction protects against the elements, making it a durable choice for any environment.
Product Timeline: The winch first launched on July 24, 2017 and there has not been any change since then.
PROS
- 1.4HP powerful motor
- Wired remote control feature
- Light in weight with just 15.45 lbs
- Corrosion resistant
CONS
- Not feasible to work with heavy-duty workloads
Vevor is available with different pulling capacities ranging from 12000lbs to 15500lbs. The 6 HP motor gives you sufficient power to do not just snow plowing, but deal with complex off-roading problems as well. It has a three-stage planetary gear system[4] that supports this powerful motor in performing the winching applications.
It might seem like a high-powered winch for your ATV but is compatible. You get 85 feet of synthetic rope that will help you head out to off-roading adventures without any second thoughts.
But if you want to just stick with plowing snow and leveling the ground, it can still be the best ATV winch for the same.
My Opinion
Pull Capacity
Rope quality
Usability
VEVOR 12000 lbs Electric Winch was a powerful and reliable winch that has proven to be a valuable addition to my off-road equipment. The winch is well-built and performs well under heavy loads, and the wireless remote control makes it easy to operate from a safe distance. However, the winch’s installation process can be a bit tricky and time-consuming, and the instructions provided could be more detailed.
Product Timeline: The winch first launched on August 23, 2021 and there has not been any change since then.
PROS
- Comes with a wireless remote
- It has a gear ratio of 265:1
- Compatible even with cars, trucks, jeeps, and boats
CONS
- Too pricey to be considered as an ATV winch
Ending the list with another Superwinch product that features a pulling capacity of 3000lbs. It comes with a mounting plate and roller fairlead to support seamless operations. The power generated by this winch comes from the low-amperage permanent magnet motor. This product comes with 50 feet of steel rope.
You can consider using this product manually or operating it remotely, depending on your preference per the situation. Moreover, the manufacturers have designed it with dynamic and mechanical brakes to help you with better load-holding potential. It has plenty of power to help you with snow plowing jobs.
My opinion
Pull Capacity
Rope quality
Usability
In my opinion, the Superwinch 1130220 LT3000 12V DC Winch 3,000lb is a reliable option for those looking for a compact and versatile winch. It boasts a powerful motor and durable construction, making it suitable for various tasks. However, the synthetic rope can be prone to fraying, and the control switch may need upgrading.
Product Timeline: The winch first launched on 23 July 2017 and there has not been any change since then.
PROS
- Powerful gearbox to withstand tough pulling actions
- Easy to install
- Comes with a lot of assisting accessories
CONS
- Circuit breakers are bulky
- Switch material is cheap
Buyer’s Guide
Before you start comparing the best-shortlisted options, you should know the parameters to run your comparative analysis. Therefore, here are a few things that you must ensure to buy the best winch for ATV plow:
1. Capacity of Battery
ATVs are not so high-powered vehicles like the 4X4 automobiles. So, the maximum weight of an ATV can be 12000lbs or less. Therefore, the battery consideration should be appropriate concerning the weight and power of your ATV.
There are two different types of batteries commonly used in winches, which include glass mats and lead-acid batteries. If you are willing to use your ATV winch for plowing purposes, then the best case scenario will be to use a 12-Volt battery that has a rating of up to 650CCA.
2. Engine Capacity
The most important factor in choosing the best ATV winch for plow is its engine capacity. The higher the engine capacity, the more will be power. Engine capacity is also referred to as the pulling capacity of a winch. The engine capacity for winches ranges from 2000 lbs to 10,000lbs and more.
The low-capacity engines are ideal for household use. If you have fewer plowing jobs only around your residential property, then low engine capacity can be preferable. But, if you have to work on robust snow removal or land flattening works on the commercial front, then you might need a powerful engineered winch.
3. Line Pull
Take note of a formula to calculate the rated line pull you will need from your winch to get done with the plowing job. The formula is:
Vehicle weight*1.5 = Minimum rated line pull needed[5]
Use this formula while you are choosing the best ATV winch for plowing. You will have the rated line pull information specified on every product you shortlist for buying. Compare the product line pull rating that meets the numbers you derived by using the formula.
4. Material of the Rope
There are synthetic and steel ropes available with winches. As you are using an ATV for plowing needs, synthetic rope can be a great fit. It is light in weight in comparison to steel winch cables, which will help your ATV function better on tough terrains.
It is safer to work with synthetic ropes than steel because there will be no possibility of whiplashing of rope on breakage, which might result in accidental injuries. Plowing with synthetic rope winches will not cause immediate wear and tear. Hence it means you can expect them to last forever if they are used just for plowing purposes.
Looking for something more specific ? Below I have compiled a list of other articles related to ATV winch that might help you. Do check them out!
Why have an ATV winch for plowing ?
Why strain your back manually scooping snow when your ATV can do it for you? Clearing your driveway using a winch-operated snow plough system[6] is quick and easy. If you have a long driveway or live in a place where the city’s snow ploughs infrequently, this is an especially remarkable lifesaver. It has the following benefits:
- Generally lower priced.
- Allows for power raising and lowering of ATV Plow from the controller.
- Most ATVs already have winches on them
- Power angling left and right with the handlebar controls.
- Faster lifting and angling, and hence there is no slack in lines.
- The operator Stays intact. To adjust the plough angle, there is no need to dismount the ATV.
- Reduced amp draw. If you press the “raise” button for too long, the motor turns off, preventing wear and tear on the motor and the winch line.
- Quick attach system. It makes taking the plow on and off the ATV simple.
- It comes with a handlebar-mounted control box
FAQs
An ATV snow plough works incredibly well for practically any amount of dry snow as well as for low to moderate depths of wet snow. It is maneuverable, quick, and excellent for sidewalks. However, you will generally be better off using bigger equipment or a snow blower for deep and heavy snow.
During the winter, get a winch-powered snow plough for your quad to save your back. It makes for a fast, easy, and fun way to keep your driveway clear so that wintertime travel is a breeze. In contrast to manual methods, winch systems enable the user to raise and lower the ATV snow plough. Additionally, they frequently cost a little less than hydraulic ATV snow plough systems.
It is usually advisable to use a 50-inch blade for ATVs under 450cc. In most snow, ATVs with a larger displacement can push edges up to 60 inches, but that’s about as far as you want. The majority of UTVs are about 60 inches wide. Thus they will need blades that are between 60 and 72 inches long.
You’ll want a more powerful winch the heavier the car is. At least 1.5 times your vehicle’s weight must be able to be pulled by your winch. You can figure it out by multiplying the gross vehicle weight by 1.5. Read more on choosing right size winch for ATV
Verdict
The SuperATV Black Ops 3500 LB Winch Kit for UTV/ATV is the best ATV winch for plowing due to its impressive pulling power, fast line speed, and durable construction. It also comes with a wireless remote control, synthetic rope, and can handle heavy loads with ease.
Not satisfied with our verdict ? If you wish to explore more options I recommend you consider buying a hand winch for ATV.
Summary
Many ATV owners want to use their machines to plow snow and keep the neighborhood clean, other than going on off-road tours. In either case, having a winch can be helpful to get the job done. Consider the features and competitive elements listed earlier in this article to help shortlist the best winch that meets your specification requirements.
References
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Kawai, H. (2015, September 4). DE102016116322A1 – Braking device for an electric winch – Google Patents. https://patents.google.com/patent/DE102016116322A1/en
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Trick, C. (2022b, May 4). What is an IP67 Rating? What is an IP67 Rating? https://www.trentonsystems.com/blog/ip67-rating
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Kyle. (2023, March 3). What are the advantages of 3 stage planetary gearbox? Greensky Power|Dc Motor & Ac Motor manufacturer. https://greensky-power.com/the-advantages-of-3-stage-planetary-gearbox/
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Lesics. (2017e, February 28). Understanding PLANETARY GEAR set ! [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ARd-Om2VyiE
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Unrau, S. (2023, March 3). Winch Pulling Power: A Guide to Winch Line Pull Ratings. 4wheelparts. https://www.4wheelparts.com/the-dirt/winch-pulling-power-a-guide-to-winch-line-pull-ratings/
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Polaris Inc. (2021). Off-Road vehicle snow plowing tips. RideReady. https://www.ridereadyservice.com/en-us/articles/off-road-vehicles/off-road-vehicle-snow-plowing-tips/
