The ATV winch is an essential accessory for off-road enthusiasts, providing the necessary power and control to navigate through challenging terrains. In this article, we’ll be highlighting 7 of the best ATV winches available in the market, weighing factors like power, control, durability, and ease of use. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your current winch or looking to buy one for the first time, this article will provide all the information you need to make an informed decision.
Which is the Best ATV winch?
SuperATV 4500 lb is the best winch for ATV due to its powerful performance and ease of use. With a 4500 lb. capacity, it can handle tough off-road conditions and its wireless remote control allows for easy operation. It’s also durable, with a sealed motor and gear housing for protection against the elements.
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 load capacity needed to handle the ATV’s weight, the desired line speed for easier and quicker winching, the build quality to see durability and braking system. Only products that scored more than 6 were chosen.
Best ATV Winch Reviews
1. Best ATV Winch - Super ATV 4500 Lbs
SuperATV 4500 Lbs is the best ATV winch. SuperATV 4500 pound winch kit leads the rankings in almost every quantifiable category. It has weight pulling capacity 4,500 pounds, making it the biggest on this list and what you would want in an Atv. The product dimensions are 20.6 x 12.3 x 6.8 inches.
A permanent magnet with a current of 12 volts and a 1.4-horsepower motor ensures that this device flows efficiently, and it comes with 50 feet of synthetic winch rope, which is ideal if you frequently find yourself far from an anchor point.
An dynamic braking mechanism[1] locks the drum when the winch is turned off or the weight is mounted.
This ATV winch is compatible with most fenders and installations with a 3 x 6.6-inch bolt configuration. It does, nonetheless, need a mounting plate or winch-ready bumper, as well, and it has a waterproof body.
The build quality of the winch is excellent. If you live in a hilly area where there’s a lot of snowfall, this is also the best atv winch for snow plowing. Though there are much cheaper options in the market but you can definitely rely on this one for sure! If you are specifically looking for snow plowing winch then this article where I reviewed the best atv winch for plowing!
However, I had to loc-tite every fastener before putting it into use. Some screws were somewhat loose when they arrived. There was a problem with the solenoid; it wouldn’t respond to the wireless remote but operated perfectly with the corded handheld remote.
SuperAtv tech assistance promptly supplied a new wireless remote/solenoid set that works properly.
Outstanding client service and people would definitely love to buy from them again and suggest them to others.
My Opinion
Pull Capacity
Line Speed
Braking system
Build Quality
As an off-road enthusiast, I can confidently say that the SuperATV is 4500 lb. Winch is one of the best ATV winches I have tried. Its power, control, and durability make it the perfect choice for any ATV owner. I love the wireless remote control, which allows for easy operation, and the sealed motor and gear housing provide added protection against the elements. All of this at a great budget.
Product Timeline: The winch was first launched on June 26, 2019 and there have been slight revisions but nothing fundamentally.
PROS
- 4,500 pound carrying capacity
- 50-foot long
- Wireless control system
- Magnet motor system
CONS
- Limited fitting usage
- Expensive
2. Best ATV Winch for the money - Superwinch 1135220 Terra 35
This very formidable launch superwinch is designed with a closed 1.6 hp magnet motor with mechanical heavy load holding and a dynamic brake with high efficiency and low amp draw. The item weighs 20 pounds. The product dimensions are 13.39 x 4.49 x 4.8 inches.
The weight pulling capacity is 3,500 lbs/1,588 kgs. It features a 50 feet endurance and 13/64 inches steel rope with a free spooling clutch with a cam motion. This ATV/UTV winch is for heavy-duty workload with a four-way roller. With all this, it also contains various switching processes and modes. Steel drums are intended for use with cable or synthetic winch rope. The sealing and circuit breaker are present for the protection of the solenoid.
Superwinch Terra 35, this specific 3500 pound winch kit, like most other Superwinch items, received great comments from consumers.
They loved it due to its numerous advantageous characteristics.
Furthermore, the majority of consumers stated that it is a well-built item which they can trust. Want to start with most of your winch? Then this Superwinch Terra 35 will get you.
The Superwinch Terra 35 is made to last due to features like steel gears with bronze bearings. The winch fits in a tiny place, which is positive. Another factor that contributed to its appeal was the price-to-performance ratio. Overall, we can assure you that if you choose this Superwinch Atv winch, you will not be disappointed.
My Opinion
Pull Capacity
Line Speed
Braking System
Build Quality
In my opinion of using the superwinch terra 35, I felt the quality of the item to be top-notch and the design to be both stylish and practical. I particularly appreciate how user-friendly using the winch was. When testing the product, I was super delighted by the pull capacity that goes beyond the actual limit it has, it could easily pull 4000 lbs of weight and most importantly had quality brakes.
Product Timeline: The winch was first launched on March 5, 2010 and there have been slight revisions but nothing fundamentally.
PROS
- Strong gears
- High functioning rotary motor with clockwise movement
- Steel Drums of Superior Quality
CONS
- Limited usage
- Compatibility issues
3. Best Budget ATV Winch - Champion 3000 lb
This Champion 3000 lb winch kit has a product dimension of 12 x 4 x 4.25 inches. It is water resistant but not fully water repellant; therefore, it may not be ideal for moisture or damp areas. It fits perfectly with the proper mounting plate and is quite simple to install, even if you must make some changes yourself.
This ATV winch comes the rate line pull capacity of 3000 lbs but struggles with weights far lighter than that, so keep that in mind if you anticipate doing a lot of heavy hauling. The cable is 45 feet in length with a 12V DC permanent magnet motor[2]. On the other hand, the included remote is large and doesn’t appear to fit anywhere, which might be a significant disadvantage for many winch users.
Whereas the pricing is cheap, you are sacrificing the performance of the winch to save a few bucks. It’s rather noisy, so don’t expect it to work quietly and peacefully like the other winches on the list. You can tell whether this one is suffering right away. When it works, it works pretty well, but it is not the most dependable one out of all the winches on the market.
My Opinion
Pull Capacity
Line Speed
Braking system
Build Quality
I understand the importance of having a winch that can handle tough conditions and is priced reasonably. The Champion Power Equipment ATV/UTV Winch Kit 4000 lb. has proven to be just that. With its reliable performance, I could tackle any obstacle with ease. I also appreciate the easy-to-use wired remote control and the durable construction which I felt after using the brakes, which ensures that this winch will perform reliably for years to come.
Product Timeline : The winch was first launched on January 5, 2013 and there have been slight revisions but nothing fundamentally.
PROS
- Lightweight
- Remote control system
- Planetary gear system
CONS
- Sound issue
- Short control cables
4. Best waterproof ATV winch - WARN 101035 VRX 35
WARN 101035 VRX 35 is one of the best atv warn winches, you can get.The attractive design offers it a premium appearance. Best water resistant Atv winch kit to get your hands on for efficient work, even in the rain. If you’re searching for an American-made winch for your off-road vehicle, this is the one to get. The Warn winch comes with load pulling capacity of 3500 pounds with a dimension of 12.2 x 17.32 x 5.91 inches.
As a result, WARN VRX 35 is ideal for practically all ATVs. If you have a lighter quad, try a 2500 lb winch. The finest feature of this winch is its build quality. It is constructed entirely of metal. It also has a powder coat coating, which makes it corrosion resistant.
This winch is outfitted with a 50-foot steel rope with a diameter of 7/32′′. Aside from that, you’ll get a 4-way roller fairlead, a zinc-plated robust hook, and a mini rocker switch to regulate the handlebar mounted winch. WARN ATV winch has an epicyclic gear system with a locking dial. As a result, this winch is well-suited to provide amazing control and power in adverse weather conditions and difficult settings.
The mechanical automatic braking mechanism offers another element of security. The winch has a watertight metal body. As a result, the winch’s high-efficiency motor is housed in a secure control box. This ATV winch has a corded remote control for safely manipulating the winch.
The winch is manufactured by a trusted firm. As a consequence, it’s no surprise that clients favorably accept their products. Some consumers believe that is the best Atv winch, which may be true if the price is ignored.
Similarly, the majority of prior customers of this winch are pleased with its quality and performance. Several also noted that the pricing is acceptable compared to the accessible products. As a result, they enthusiastically suggest it to owners of four-wheel-drive automobiles.
My Opinion
Pull Capacity
Line Speed
Braking system
Build Quality
When one comes across challenging terrain like deep muddy waters, it’s importantI to rely on a winch that could handle anything I throw at it. The Warn VRX 45-S 4500 lb. ATV Winch has proven to be up to the task. With its reliable and powerful performance, I felt I could tackle even the toughest obstacles with ease. I also appreciate the ease of use, thanks to the simple, intuitive controls, and the peace of mind that comes with its top-notch construction and durability.
Product Timeline: The winch was first launched on June 13, 2018 and there have been slight revisions but nothing fundamentally.
PROS
- Powerful gears
- Waterproof certification of IP68 and corrosive environment protected
- It has a mechanical dynamic braking mechanism.
- Best-in-class customer service team
CONS
- Mounting kit is required
- Short length wires
5. Superwinch LT2000
This Superwinch LT2000 weighs around 14.3 pounds, and its dimensions are 11.22 x 4.13 x 4.13 inches. This ATV winch has a working load of 2000 lbs with an epicyclic gear system[3], making it quite powerful, versatile, easy to use and sturdy for operational works. The cord is hand driven with steel cable.
It features a low amperage draw motor for high efficiency and protects the circuit from breakage. This fabulous winch braking system is superior, and its top priority is its safety. The circuit breaker present in it is heavily safeguarded. The Atv winch drum has a strong latching hook with a rope thimble. It includes extras via a pulley block and a shackle.
Prior purchasers were delighted with this item and appreciated its braking system. The only drawbacks they identified were the mounting plate, compatibility and a wired remote.
Overall, prior purchasers rate this winch highly. At the same time, some of them believed that the price might be lower.
My opinion
Pull Capacity
Line Speed
Braking system
Build Quality
I have been using Superwinch for a few weeks now and although I was sceptical at first, I felt it handled 2000 lbs of load pretty comfortably. It has exceeded my expectations and has made my daily routine much easier. The features are intuitive and user-friendly, and the build quality is top-notch. I would highly recommend this product to anyone looking for a reliable and high-performing device. It’s definitely worth the investment.
Product Timeline: The winch was first launched on September 14, 2004 and there have been slight revisions but nothing fundamentally.
PROS
- A huge amount of bite for your budget
- There are several installation possibilities
- A small magnetic engine has a long life expectancy
CONS
- Several installation possibilities
- Long life expectancy
The Bravex Electric ATV Winch kit is a substantial piece of machinery with 12V motor gears and a weight hauling capacity of 3500 lbs. The dimensions of the product are 12.4 x 4.7 x 4.17 inches with 70 ft and wireless control system. You may have to modify the mounting plate to fit your Atv, although most winch users don’t face this issue.
The winch is made in China, but it looks to work properly and also comes equipped, so you should be perfectly fine. The process gets considerably easier to finish when you use the offered control.
Just be careful to focus on the other parts while taking everything out of the box.
It is not water repellant which can get a bit tricky for users who are often near water bodies.
Despite any minor issues, the company gives amazing service and will definitely send you a replacement. A firm that delivers excellent customer service is typically highly beneficial. It is one of the most budget winches available and comes with simple instructions that will not raise any setting problems.
Even if you have some minor issues, the company gives amazing service and will definitely send you a substitute. The great after-service of this institute is of very premium quality. It is one of the most budget winches accessible and includes a simple set-up guide, so it poses no hassle in organizing.
My opinion
Pull Capacity
Line Speed
Braking system
Build Quality
I used Bravex Electric 12V 3500 lb Single Line Winch when it was required to rescue an ATV during an off roading experience recently. The winch is very powerful and could handle a heavy load with ease. The remote control is easy to use and makes it convenient to operate the winch from a safe distance. The winch is also very durable and can withstand tough conditions.
Product Timeline: The winch was first launched on June 13, 2017 and there have been slight revisions but nothing fundamentally.
PROS
- Engine drive with high power
- The strength is consistent and reliable
- Remote-based controlled sensitivities
- Good customer service
CONS
- Not waterproof
- Installation handle needs improvement
7. Kolpin 3500
Design with a center-spool internal gearing built particularly for plowing. Three-stage planetary gear train made of all steel for dependability and smooth performance. The product weighs nearly 25 pounds. The rate line pull of this ATV winch is around 3500 lbs with a steel wire rope, which is prewound for 50 feet, and the motor is 12V DC, 1.2Hp.
Weatherproof sealed drums and motor. The dimension of the product is 16.7 x 10.8 x 6.5 inches. The dial is ergonomic for free spooling-to-clutch engagement. Mechanical cable drum brake that operates automatically. Protect the motor with a heavy-duty load relay. It has 6-gauge heavy-duty wiring.
The quick connect wire harness is color-coded. Rocker handlebar mounted switch are of premium quality and come with a wire harness. 4 way roller fairlead with four rollers, mounting plate, and hardware supplied.
My opinion
Pull Capacity
Line Speed
Braking system
Build Quality
The Kolpin winch was fairly powered and I felt the brakes were better off with this one. The remote control is easy to use and makes it convenient to operate the winch from a safe distance. The winch is also built to last and can withstand tough conditions. I have used it several times already and it has never failed me.
Product Timeline: The winch was first launched on October 23, 2015 and there have been slight revisions but nothing fundamentally.
PROS
- It is watertight and impermeable.
- Small and space fit
- Self-operating mechanical steel drums
- Heavy load carrying performance
CONS
- Can create adaptability issues
- Certain ranged usage
How to decide what size ATV winch to buy ?
To get an approximation of the right ATV winch size, first, multiply the weight of the vehicle by 1.5, and then the resulting number is the amount of capacity that fits your requirements for shopping.
For example, an Atv with a combined weight of 3000 lbs may need a winch with a maximum weight pulling capacity of 4500 pounds.
3000*1.5 = 4500 pounds
Right ATV Winch Size = (Weight of ATV) * 1.5
Buyer’s Guide
Pulling capacity
The most important feature to look for whenever selecting a winch is its pulling capacity. Generally, ATV winches come with a rated pull weight capability of around 2,000-4,500 pounds. A good winch can readily pull the weight of your ATV together with the other factors of resistance like mud, dirt, etc.
In general, the higher the price, the greater the weight pulling capacity. But it’s not necessary to go beyond. One more consideration is that the pulling bigger weights put more stress on the Atv battery, and if the stress won’t be able to meet its point, then the winch will crumble down.
Rope Material (Metal/Synthetic)
While a steel cable is gentler on the winch, contemporary winches are better equipped to withstand that force. That is why we favor synthetic rope. When you use synthetic rope, you won’t get steel slivers in your hands and won’t kink or corrode. These are also safer because a snapped metallic winch cable carrying load may become a potent weapon.
Weight
The weight in an Atv winch is very important as that would be the main deciding factor for your vehicle and needs. A decent rule of thumb is to select a winch with a rated line pull capacity of around 1.5 times the ATV’s gross weight. Almost all Atv winches require a rating of about 2500 lbs to 3500 lbs. Similarly, small Atv winches are for small and less heavy ATVs, whereas big weighted Atv winches are for larger ATVs.
Cost
There are several Atv winches available at various prices. All of the above-mentioned winches are very differently priced, which can be assumed as a very common range for a winch. Having a price set or budget limit already beforehand gives you an idea of Atv winches for your choices.
Because this is something you’ll want to use for years, it’s typically worth investing more on a good, long-lasting winch, but a larger price tag doesn’t always imply a better buy. When assessing the advantages and drawbacks, try to overlook the price tags in order to select the best winch for your needs. But in the end, ultimately, it all comes down to the buyers’ budget needs and requirements.
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!
Verdict
To pick a best of all the ATV winches I tried, I would say SuperATV 4500 lb is the best option. With its 4500 lb capacity, strong and durable construction, and easy-to-use wired remote, this winch provides reliable performance in tough conditions. The fast line speed and quiet operation are also impressive features that make this winch a standout choice for ATV enthusiasts.
Summary
I tried and tested 13 ATV winches , from which just 7 passed the test and I explained my experience for 7 top ATV winches based on factors such as strength, versatility, and user ratings. These winches vary in weight capacity and include brands such as Warn, Superwinch, and KFI. The article provides a brief overview of each winch, including its pros and cons, to help readers make an informed purchase decision. Whether you’re a professional or an off-road enthusiast, these winches offer reliable performance for your ATV.
Don’t like electric ATV winches ? No problem! I reviewed some hand ATV winches too.
References
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Hagemeister Enterprises, INC. (2019, March 6). Winch Motors Understanding The Braking System [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wYEsa7pi1i0
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Vavra, C. (2022f). Understanding permanent magnet motors. Control Engineering. https://www.controleng.com/articles/understanding-permanent-magnet-motors/
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Epicyclic gear trains. (2020, November 19). Marples Gears. https://www.marplesgears.com/2019/10/epicyclic-gear-trains/
