Electric winches are essential tools for many outdoor enthusiasts, whether you’re into off-roading, boating, or camping. They provide a reliable and efficient way to pull heavy loads, recover vehicles, or anchor boats. In this article, we’ve researched and compiled a list of the 10 best electric winches on the market, to help you find the perfect one for your needs.
Which is the Best Electric Winch?
WARN 92820 Zeon Platinum 12 is the best electric winch due to its high-quality construction, excellent pulling capacity of 12,000 lbs, and advanced features such as wireless remote control, automatic load-holding brake, and durable synthetic rope. It also has a sleek design and is backed by a generous warranty.
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 weight, build quality and the usability to know how easy it is to use an electric winch. Only products that scored more than 7 were chosen.
Best Electric Winches
for car trailer
Smittybilt X2O COMP
- Lightweight
- Dynamic braking
- 2 solenoid mounting option
Best winch
WARN Zeon Platinum
- IP68 waterproof rating
- Highly durable
- Remote operations
Best for truck
Smittybilt GEN 2 XRC
- IP67 waterproof rating
- 5 yrs warranty
- Easy to install
Follow on till the end to compare all of these ten electric winches and find the one that suits your budget and specification considerations:
1. Best electric Winch - WARN 92820 Zeon Platinum 12 -12,000 lb
It is at the top of this list and entitled the best electric winch because it has the potential to tow more than 12000 lbs. But still, the company suggests maintaining a gross weight of towing vehicles as less than or equal to 8000 lbs. You can obviously push it to maximum capacity in some unavoidable situations.
You get to choose between both synthetic and steel top variants. For the specific model, you get 80 feet of steel rope. Zeon Platinum 12 offers a gear ratio of 216:1 and has a mounting of 10 inches. The synthetic rope version comprises 80 feet of synthetic rope and is titled Zeon 12-S. The gear ratio[1] is less, with 162:1 for the synthetic rope model.
My opinion
Pull Capacity
Build quality
Usability
In my opinion, having tested the WARN 92820 Zeon Platinum 12 electric winch, I can confidently say it’s an excellent product. The winch’s wireless remote control and automatic load-holding brake were easy to use and reliable, while the synthetic rope proved strong and durable. It’s a top-tier option for anyone looking for a high-quality electric winch.
Product Timeline: The winch first launched on November 22, 2014 and there has not been any change since then.
PROS
- Remote operations
- Comes with additional accessories
- IP68 waterproof rating
- Highly durable
CONS
- Steel rope is prone to rust
- Remote’s battery is not of the best quality
2. Best electric winch for a car trailer - Smittybilt X2O COMP - 10,000 lb
Smittybilt X2O COMP has a very compact frame design that doesn’t occupy much space after installation on your rig. IP68 waterproof[2] rating helps protect the electric winch from water intrusion at the gear casing, electronics, and the motor. The maximum load capacity of this model is up to 10,000 lbs and is equipped with an aluminum hawse fairlead.
This model has a 98.5 feet synthetic rope setup and operates with compact power from a 6.6HP amphibious motor. The torque is highest for an electric winch within this price range. The gear ratio is 218:1, implemented by a three-stage planetary gear system. The power and gear mechanism is going to give you faster line speeds.
My opinion
Pull Capacity
Build quality
Usability
I termed it as the Smittybilt X2O 12K GEN2 Comp Series Wireless as the best electric winch for a car trailer because it’s impressed with its build quality and performance. The 12,000 lbs pulling capacity and synthetic rope proved strong and reliable, while the wireless remote made operating the winch easy and convenient. The winch’s overall performance and features make it a great choice for any off-road enthusiast.
Product Timeline: The winch first launched on April 30, 2014 and there has not been any change since then.
PROS
- Supports manual and electrical operation
- Embedded with a dynamic braking system
- Lightweight
- Comes with 2 solenoid mounting options
CONS
- Maintenance heavy product
- Screws and brackets available with the set are not of adequate size
3. Best electric winch for truck - Smittybilt GEN 2 XRC Winch 17500 LB - 9,500 lb
You have the option to pick varying load capacities with Smittybilt GEN 2 XRC truck Winch, but this particular model is talking about 17,500 lbs of load capacity. It comes with a 94 feet steel cable and has a high-quality 4-way roller fairlead. Just like the other options in this range, it has a planetary gear system and in-drum brake.
All the wiring essentials you need to install it onto your truck are available in this kit. The brand recommends you use only the supplied wiring. With such a high load-bearing capacity, it can help you excel in your off-roading adventures. It is a budgeted pick. So, if you are willing to invest less without compromising on quality, this truck winch can be a great choice.
My opinion
Pull Capacity
Build quality
Usability
After testing the Smittybilt GEN 2 XRC Winch 17500 LB – 9,500 lb, I felt it can be a great choice for any truck owner. The winch’s high pulling capacity and durable cable make it a reliable tool for tough tasks. Additionally, its compact design and easy installation are impressive. It’s a top-performing electric winch that I highly recommend, especially if you are a truck owner.
Product Timeline: The winch first launched on April 30, 2014 and there has not been any change since then.
PROS
- IP67 waterproof rating
- Possible solenoid mounting on 3 different positions
- Brand warranty for 5 years
- Easy to install and use
CONS
- Clutch lever is not of the best quality
- Control box could be better
4. Best ATV electric winch - Superwinch 1135220 Terra 35 - 3500 lb
It is a heavy-duty electric truck winch that has a load capacity of 3500 lbs and comes with a 50 feet steel rope. It uses a 1.6 HP motor with permanent magnets. Hence, this setup makes the winch more reliable and efficient when combined with the brake and load holding aspects.
It comes with a weather-sealed solenoid but is not waterproof. It might not experience damage with minimal water exposure, but there is no rating to call it completely waterproof. Moreover, it also comes with dynamic braking potential and mechanical load holding feature to prevent accidents due to power surges or failure.
My opinion
Pull Capacity
Build quality
Usability
ATVs are fun and the whole process can get even more fun if one finds the correct electric winch for an ATV. When I got my hands on this winch, I felt it’s powerful enough to handle a variety of tasks, including heavy-duty pulling and recovery. Additionally, it’s easy to install and operate, with a wireless remote control and automatic load-holding brake.
Product Timeline: The winch first launched on April 30, 2014 and there has not been any change since then.
PROS
- Operates with a 3-stage planetary gear system
- Available in both synthetic rope and steel rope
- Sealed solenoid with protected circuit breaker
CONS
- No mounting plate in the set
- Installation is a bit complex
5. Best electric winch for utv - SuperATV Black Ops UTV Winch - 4,500 lb
Super ATV 4500 lbs Black Ops UTV Winch is the perfect recovery tool for your off-roading trips. It has a maximum load bearing capacity of 4500 lbs and comes with a 50 feet synthetic rope. It is ideal to fit most winch mounts or bumpers with a 76 x 168mm bolt pattern. A machine-specific mounting plate is essential for the purpose, and you need to buy it separately.
It has a 6-inch aluminum hawse fairlead and comes with a support bracket as well. The operating gear ratio is at 166:1, which might not be the best in the lot, but is still greater than most available options within this price range. The operating motor is efficient with 1.3 HP and a permanent magnet.
My opinion
Pull Capacity
Build quality
Usability
When I was testing SuperATV Black Ops UTV Winch with a friend, I tried across multiple conditions and felt it’s a great choice if you own a UTV. Its 4,500 lb capacity and fast line speed make it incredibly efficient and reliable for any off-road situation. The synthetic rope is also a nice touch, as it reduces weight and is more durable than traditional steel cables. I highly recommend this winch to any UTV owner.
Product Timeline: The winch first launched on April 30, 2014 and there has not been any change since then.
PROS
- Comes with a wireless dash rocker switch
- Waterproof solenoid
- Heavy-gauge extended wiring
- Automatic braking
CONS
- Mounting plate is not available with the kit
- It is noisy during use
6. Best electric winch for jeep - WARN 103250 VR EVO 8 Electric 12V DC Winch - 8,000 lb
If you have a Jeep for your off-roading adventures, this is the perfect electric winch to complete your preparations. A 90 feet steel cable worth pulling a maximum load of 8000 lbs is quite proficient for escalating the off-roading potential of your Jeep. You can also opt for the synthetic rope variant, depending on your specific preferences.
It is embedded with a powerful series-wound motor to fuel the winch and make it robust in operations. The 3-stage planetary gear system also contributes toward faster line speed when connected with load. The model features IP68 waterproof rating, and the brand offers a lifetime warranty on mechanical parts and a seven years limited warranty on electrical parts.
My opinion
Pull Capacity
Build quality
Usability
I used and tried WARN 103250 VR EVO 8 Electric Winch with my own jeep across the desert area close to my house. A close friend owns it so it was easy for me to test it. I feel 8,000 lb capacity is more than enough for any off-road situation, and the reliable 12V DC motor ensures consistent performance. The three-stage planetary gear train also adds to the durability and overall quality of the winch.
Product Timeline: The winch first launched on January 11, 2016 and there has not been any change since then.
PROS
- Ideal for 2-door Jeeps and lightweight SUVs
- Available in different load capacity and rope options
- Comes with a 2-in-1 remote and cast aluminum tie plate
- IP68 waterproof rating
CONS
- Short battery life for the remote
- No tensioner kit is available with the kit
If you wish to explore more on electric winches, you can refer some of my guides. Exploring wide range of topics like bush vs electric winch, hydraulic vs electric winch, PTO vs electric winch
Other Great Picks
7. ZESUPER 12V 13000-lb - 13,000 lb
This specific electric winch is designed and recommended for cars, trucks, ATVs, UTVs, jeeps, and other modified rigs. It ensures a pull speed of 5.8 feet per minute when fully loaded to maximum weight. On freeload, the pull speed will be 22 feet per minute. The specific model comes with 78 feet of synthetic rope.
The gear ratio of this electric winch is 265:1, which determines the quality of this product. It has an aluminum hawse fairlead and a 3-stage planetary gear system to improve operational efficiency. The series wound motor is highly powerful with 6.4HP. Such a high-power motor is proficient in pulling up to 13000 lbs of weight seamlessly.
My opinion
Pull Capacity
Build quality
Usability
In my opinion, the ZESUPER 12V 13000-lb winch can be a reliable winch. With its 13,000 lb capacity, it can handle heavy loads with ease, and the 12V motor ensures consistent and efficient performance. The winch is also built with high-quality materials and designed to last, making it a great investment for any off-road enthusiast.
Product Timeline: The winch first launched on April 30, 2014 and there has not been any change since then.
PROS
- Lightweight
- Works feasibly up to -20 degrees Celsius
- Improved clutch lever
- Advanced metal texture for added durability
CONS
- Controller box has gaps in its fitment
- Short controller wires
8. Champion Winch 4500 lb - Another great pick for ATV/UTV
It is one of the most powerful electric winch options for UTV or ATV vehicles. If you are on a budget but still want to avail a moderate machine that can withstand the nominal load, then this is the one you can consider. Champion Winch has a load-bearing capacity of 4500 lbs and is completely wireless.
You can operate the winch wirelessly within a 50-foot radius, which will help you deal with difficult situations without getting entangled in wires. It is powered by a 1.6 HP DC motor and has a record line speed of 4.6 feet per minute with a full load. With freeload, the line speed increases to 12.8 feet per minute.
It is equipped with a three-stage planetary gear system[3] and obtains a gear ratio of 180:1. This kit comes with 38 feet of galvanized steel rope.
You might also want to read how to wire a winch without solenoid
My opinion
Pull Capacity
Build quality
Usability
In feel the Champion Winch 4500 lb is a great option for those looking for a reliable winch at a budget. Its 4,500 lb capacity is more than sufficient for most off-road situations, and the winch is built with high-quality materials to ensure durability and longevity. The included wired remote control also makes it easy to operate the winch from a safe distance.
Product Timeline: The winch first launched on January 11, 2014 and there has not been any change since then.
PROS
- Comes with a 4-way roller fairlead
- Available with a mounting channel and wiring kit
- Super-duty aircraft cable
CONS
- 38 feet steel rope is too small for a winch at this price point
- Delay in switch response
9. X-BULL - 13,000 lb
X-Bull winch is for professional off-roaders who go on intense trails without second thoughts. If you have such a robust vehicle to help you deal with such intense adventures, it is good to have a high-power winch with increased load-bearing capacity. X-Bull offers you that with a maximum load pulling capacity of 13,000 lbs.
It has a 3-stage gear system and is enabled with automatic load holding. Hence, this will add to the sturdiness factor when freeing your vehicle or removing an obstacle. The synthetic rope is 85 feet long and lightweight to easily float in water. The 500 AMP state-of-the-art solenoid with a couple of 12V batteries makes it even more powerful.
My opinion
Pull Capacity
Build quality
Usability
In my experience of using X-BULL 13,000 lb winch, I can tell you that the brand speaks for itself. I use several products by X Bull. With its high capacity and efficient motor, this winch could handle heavy loads with ease. The winch is also built with high-quality materials and designed to last. You can almost open the box and feel how good the product is.
Product Timeline: There is no available information on when the product was first available.
PROS
- Price is affordable
- Remote control works magnificently
- Incredible breaking strength
- 1-year limited brand warranty
CONS
- Metal components in it are not much durable
- Always operational even with vehicle ignitions off
10. ORCISH 12V - 3500 lb
ORCISH helps you choose the load pulling capacity option you want for your vehicle. This specific model is talking about the 3500 lbs synthetic rope version. This product offers you two operational modes; manual and electric. It has a wireless remote with a range of 50-foot radius to let you operate the winch from a distance.
This electric winch is specifically designed for ATVs and UTVs. It is waterproof and is feasible to be used in all weather conditions. The motor powers the winch with 1 HP that doesn’t over consume the battery. The engine is sealed and guarantees protection against moisture and rain to ensure longevity.
My opinion
Pull Capacity
Build quality
Usability
As soon as I opened this electric winch, I felt ORCISH 12V 3500 lb winch was an excellent option for those in need of a compact winch. With its 3500 lb capacity, it’s perfect for smaller vehicles or lighter loads. The winch is also built with high-quality materials and features a durable synthetic rope, making it a reliable choice for any off-road situation.
Product Timeline: The winch first launched on January 6, 2019 and there has not been any change since then.
PROS
- Embedded with permanent metal magnet motor
- Three-stage planetary gear system
- Lifetime technical support
CONS
- Wires are of short length
- Mounting plates could have been of better rust-free material
How To Decide what size electric Winch To Buy?
The thumb rule to decide on which winch would perfectly fit your off-roading purpose is to add 30% to the actual load pulling capacity that you need for pulling out your vehicle from difficult situations and match that with the capacity of your winch.
For example, if you need 6700 pounds of pulling capacity, you just look for an electric winch that can provide you with 8000 pounds of working load potential.
Buyer’s Guide
To help you make a fruitful decision about investing your dollars in an electric winch, here are a few of the features for you to look upon while shortlisting the best ones from the list above:
1. Pulling Capacity
Pulling capacity determines the potential of a winch’s engine and motor to handle the maximum working load. You have options starting from 1000 lbs to up to 14000 lbs, available with different brands and at different marketplaces.
You need to decide on the applications you prefer with your electric winch. For instance, the lower load pulling capacity of 1000lbs or a similar range will be adequate only for lighter tasks such as stretching fence lines, pulling out a small vehicle, or hanging things.
If you are an off-roader and want a winch for your rig, you need to consider options above 3500 lbs, depending on the vehicle you use and the predictive situations you might experience in the off-road trail you choose.
2. Rope Material
The next important feature to look for is the rope material. You have synthetic rope and steel rope available with most brands listed above. You must have noticed that synthetic ropes are more expensive than steel ropes, for all brand products.
It is because steel ropes are prone to rust and are dangerous when they fray or break. It might just fly around due to accidental breaks, as the existing force in the string will make it wobble and injure people or damage vehicles.
Synthetic ropes, on the other hand, fall dead on the ground when it breaks accidentally, without risking anyone or anything around. Moreover, it is also not prone to rust. But, both steel and synthetic ropes have their advantages over one another[4].
Steel ropes are durable and require less maintenance in the long run. But, synthetic ropes hold mud and dirt along with them and carry them to the drum. Hence, timely maintenance is essential to prevent the metal components of the drum from rusting due to moisture.
3. Weight
Depending on the type of vehicle you are using, you must consider the weight of an electric winch as well. It is because if a light vehicle uses a heavy winch on the bumper, then the vehicle performance might get affected.
Similarly, a heavy off-roading truck cannot prefer to use a light-weight electric winch, as it would either accidentally detach the winch or damage the bumpers. So, this is something you should look for while picking the best electric winch.
4. Cost
Lastly, pricing is a major concern for most off-roaders. Winch is an essential accessory for adventure or off-roading trips on difficult trails. But at the same time, you should not bust your budget just to get the best without consideration.
Look for the pricing and the features that an electric winch has to offer. Do not always look for the cheapest, but look for the one that adds value to the reasonable price tag. Go ahead and make your final purchase before you start on your trail.
Verdict
After thoroughly analyzing the top electric winches on the market, in my opinion, the WARN 92820 Zeon Platinum 12 -12,000 lb is the best option available. With its impressive 12,000 lb capacity, fast line speed, and efficient motor, it can handle heavy loads with ease.
Summary
The article explores the top 10 best electric winches on the market, ranging in capacity from 3,500 lbs to 18,000 lbs. The winches are evaluated based on their performance, durability, ease of use, and overall value.
The list includes well-known brands such as WARN and Smittybilt, as well as some newer options such as the Bravex Electric Winch. The article offers detailed reviews and highlights the standout features of each winch, helping readers to make an informed decision when choosing the best electric winch for their needs.
References
-
Brain, M. (2023d). How gear ratios work. HowStuffWorks. https://science.howstuffworks.com/transport/engines-equipment/gear-ratio.htm
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Polycase. (n.d.-d). IP68 waterproof rating. TechTalk Blog. https://www.polycase.com/techtalk/ip-rated-enclosures/ip68-waterproof-rating.html
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Lesics. (2017d, February 28). Understanding PLANETARY GEAR set ! [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ARd-Om2VyiE
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Holman, S. P. (2012). Steel winch cable vs. synthetic rope. MotorTrend. https://www.motortrend.com/how-to/129-1212-steel-winch-cable-vs-synthetic-rope/
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