Winching is an essential aspect of off-roading and it can be the difference between a successful adventure and a frustrating one.
With so many options available, choosing the right winch for your Jeep can be overwhelming.
In this review article I’ve compiled a list of the ten best winches for Jeep based on factors such as pulling capacity, reliability, and ease of use.
Whether you are an experienced off-roader or just starting out, this article has everything you need to find the perfect winch for your Jeep.
Which is the best jeep winch ?
Warn VR Evo 8 is the best winch for jeep due to its combination of high weight capacity, reliable performance, and versatile control options. It could handle the toughest recovery situations and is designed with a quiet, fast, and efficient planetary gear train, and comes with a remote.
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.
I also curated a scorecard for every product, where I considered the weight capacity needed to handle the Jeep’s weight, the desired line speed for easier and quicker winching, and the build quality to see durability, strength, and resistance to abrasion. Only products that scored more than 6 were chosen.
Best Jeep Winches
best for money
Super-winch Tiger Shark
- Easy to grip
- Effortless to work
- Reduces harm from rain and snow
Best Winch
Warn VR Evo 8
- Easy to install
- IP68 waterproof rating
- High Performance
This jeep winch comes with steel or synthetic rope and has an 8,000 lbs, 12,000 lbs, and 10,000 pounds pulling capacity. This is enough for a 2 door jeep and can also be used for lightweight SUVs. This also comes with a albright contactor
This electric winch has a strong series-wound engine with quick line speed and lower adequacy. When getting a winch, we strive to get a machine that’s reliable and this winch comes with an Albright contractor that’s possibly the best in class.
It features a best-in-class, two-in-one remote with wireless and wired remote control for added convenience and flexibility. A steel drum is intended for use with one or the other link or synthetic rope.
It has an IP68 rating[1] waterproof construction which means if you are ever offroading or stuck in a muddy situation, you shouldn’t be worried at all. This also comes with a single piece cast aluminum tie plate which only adds to the extra strength and durability of the product.
My Opinion
Pull Capacity
Line Speed
Build Quality
I have first hand experience of using Warn VR Evo 8. This winch is made of high-quality steel and is incredibly durable. It has a powerful pulling capacity and is very easy to use. I also appreciate the included remote control which makes winching a smooth process. Overall, I highly recommend this Winch to anyone looking for a reliable and effective winching solution for their Jeep.
Product Timeline
The product was first launched on September 23, 2021. We are yet to see a refreshed version.
PROS
- Installation is easy.
- It has IP68 waterproof rating
- High performance
CONS
- Scratches can occur.
- Careful while utilizing the first time.
The new convertible control pack has a strategic look and permits upstanding or low-profile mounting setups. The one-piece tie plate replaces different tie bars for expanded strength, and a top-tier cone brake holds the full-evaluated load.
Like the other warn winch which we discussed in the first place, this one too has a albright contractor which is waterproof and doesn’t have a solenoid so that means you can rely on it for pulling a Jeep.
An added benefit is that you get 7 year electrical warranty.
The clutch lever that this product features has been totally redesigned in such a way that it’s easy to use and most importantly you can turn them quite easily. Just make sure you are wearing safety gloves.
Since the winch is responsible for pulling an entire vehicle and in this case we are talking of a jeep, this electric winch has a very strong structural brace that helps increase the structural rigidity of the entire product. Since it has a synthetic cable which is quite helpful considering you can even pull an upside down product.
My Opinion
Pull Capacity
Line Speed
Build Quality
When I was reviewing the winches, the WARN VR 8-S Winch was almost the winner and it did exceed my expectations. The winch is incredibly powerful and has a strong pulling capacity. The design is compact and easy to install, and the included wireless remote control makes it convenient to use. I have used it multiple times and it has performed flawlessly every time. Just requires using it with some caution.
Product Timeline
The product was first launched on November 1, 2016. We are yet to see a refreshed version.
PROS
- Control pack and remote plug.
- Helps with extending essential rigidity.
- Newly designed clutch lever.
- Durable and smooth three stage planetary gear.
CONS
- Damage can occur if not pulled cautiously.
The smittybilt winch is something we got from one of the owners who owns a 08 JKU Wrangler. It has aluminum hawse fairlead with produced snare, all expected power links to attach to your vehicle. Numerous mounting choices on the control pack. The form quality is brilliant and exceptionally easy to introduce, and the remote capability is an unquestionable necessity.
Smittybilt winch comes with a 6.6 HP amphibious motor that has a 3 stage planetary gear system. Since a winch of this much pulling capacity has to be strong, the hardware is made entirely out of stainless steel.
Another important thing to notice is that the whole product is waterproof so no matter what situation you are stuck in, you can operate the winch with peace of mind. You also need to keep in mind that the X20 series has stainless steel rope instead of a synthetic rope which you get in X20 Comp series.
My Opinion
Pull Capacity
Line Speed
Build Quality
In my experience the best part of X20 is that it’s made of high-quality synthetic material which makes it waterproof and durable. The X20 winch has a powerful pulling capacity and is very easy to use. The remote control is also waterproof, which is a great feature for off-roading in different weather conditions. I would recommend this as the best for a Jeep gladiator.
Product Timeline
The product was first launched on April 30, 2014. We are yet to see a refreshed version.
PROS
- Dynamic braking system.
- Huge clutch for simple control during gloved tasks.
- Larger than usual tie pole swaggers for most extreme strength.
CONS
- This winch will have caused it to eliminate and reinstall steel multiple times.
OFF ROAD BOAR has a 6 HP motor alongside a 3 stage planetary gear train[2] in the inside. This jeep winch has a synthetic rope that has a load capacity of 13000 lbs which is almost three times the weight of a regular jeep, so even if your jeep is full with loads of weight, you can be rest assured that the winch will help you out.
The establishment is a basic, multi-station establishment, and fast removal can be understood, and it enjoys the benefits of little size, enormous decrease in proportion, and long assistance life.
The product also gets the much loved feature of dual control mode where with just one remote, you can potentially operate with wireless remote control and also the wired control switch. Since the winch has IP67 waterproof construction, feel free to take it in as muddy conditions as possible and it will still get the job done.
One thing most people ignore is customer care. With Off road boar, you receive lifetime technical support and a year’s warranty on the entire purchase.
You can ask them any question either via their official website or Amazon listing and someone will revert to your query.
My Opinion
Pull Capacity
Line Speed
Build Quality
I tested the Off Road Boar winch with a capacity of 4000 lbs and the winch was powerful, reliable and pulled the weight effortlessly. The design is compact and easy to install, and the included wired remote control makes it convenient to use. I have used it multiple times and it has performed flawlessly every time.
Product Timeline
The product was first launched on May 12, 2017. We are yet to see a totally refreshed version.
PROS
- Wireless switch.
- Free spooling clutch.
- Long-lasting property.
- Strong corrosion resistance.
CONS
- It may start spooling by itself.
The Zesuper 9500 electric winch has a pulling capacity of 9500 lbs enough to pull a heavyweight Jeep. Powering the winch is a 5.5 HP 12v DC series motor that operates on a three stage planetary gear train.
It has an outstanding line speed of 6.4 feet per minute when fully loaded which is impressive.
The product gets two remotes, one being the hand-held or wired and other is a wireless remote control that aids in better sensitivity to commands with added accuracy. Since the whole structure is well built, it keeps the components from the interruption of water and sand and adjusts to any cruel circumstances.
Unadulterated copper engines have the qualities of high attractive inductive dissolving points, high-temperature obstruction, solid power, safe work, and increased productivity. All winches get lifetime technical support and a year’s warranty on the entire product.
My Opinion
Pull Capacity
Line Speed
Build Quality
This winch has one of the finest designs. I found it to be compact and easy to install, and the included wireless remote control makes it convenient to use. I highly recommend the T-MAX EW-70000 Pro Series Winch to anyone looking for a top-performing winch for their off-roading adventures. A great option for Jeep JKU.
Product Timeline
The product was first launched on October 20, 2020. We are yet to see a refreshed version.
PROS
- Advanced wireless remote control.
- Strong and reliable.
- Simple establishment.
- Efficient at higher speeds.
CONS
- Clutch, screw, and any other part can get rusted.
- It may start arcing when connecting to the battery.
These types of winches have been refreshed with solid elements for upgraded execution and strength. Going from 9,500 lbs -17,500 pounds, the XRC winch is a finished recuperation framework with the muscle and dependability to rescue you from any circumstance.
The load capacity is enough to pull a regular jeep jL. The entire construction is waterproof so you can be free about the worst possible scenarios at ground zero. The product has a 500 AMP solenoid and comes with every wiring instruction and installation guide.
Since you have to do the installation yourself, it may seem daunting in the beginning but it’s not. All you have to do is follow the guide or else just play a youtube video since there are many. The cables are like copper welding quality which is a great advantage
My Opinion
Pull Capacity
Line Speed
Build Quality
I found what separates Smittybilt GEN 2 XRC Winch from other models is its state-of-the-art 500 AMP Solenoid. The whole construction was waterproof and the power unit showed no signs of exertion. You can easily use it with a Jeep that has a fully loaded carrier.
Product Timeline
The product was first launched on May 14, 2012. There have been multiple iterations but not a totally revised version.
PROS
- Easy to operate.
- Copper welding quality cable.
- Directions are adequate.
CONS
- Mounting options are not good.
Jeep vehicles are usually heavyweight offroaders and depending on the model, you need to carefully pick a jeep winch that has enough load capacity. For someone who owns a Jeep tj, you should straightaway opt for M8000-S that has a low profile design and an entirely separate box that houses your tools.
Inside the winch is a 3 stage planetary gearbox which has a pulling rating of roughly 8000 lbs along with a sliding ring gear free spooling clutch. As discussed multiple times, a handheld remote just adds to the efficiency of operating a winch. Even the M8000-S comes with a wired remote control system. It’s one of the longest bestsellers from Warn.
This could seem slightly expensive but what you are paying for is not just the product, but an added peace of mind since Warn as a brand needs no introduction. You also pay for the extra reliability and excellent customer support in case you need one. Apart from using it for Jeep, you could use it for other small hatch or SUVs as well.
My Opinion
Pull Capacity
Line Speed
Build Quality
I remember using the WARN 87800 M8000-s Winch for a rescue option and I was extremely impressed with its performance. The winch is made of high-quality synthetic material and is incredibly durable. It has a powerful pulling capacity and is very easy to use. The included remote control makes winching a breeze.
Product Timeline
The product was first launched on November 1, 2011. We are yet to see a refreshed version.
PROS
- Excellent hardware quality
- 12 feet lead with handheld rubber grip
- Sliding ring gear free spooling clutch
- Wired remote control system
CONS
- Expensive compared to others
While you’re investigating rough terrain in your 4×4, crashing through mud swamps, energizing sandy slopes, and fording across streams, getting stuck is just a question of when, not if.
All weather resistant[3].
The most recent age of remote controllers. Furnished with the most recent age of remote for all the most recent x-bull winches.
Uncompromising fixed contactor with positive burden control for power info and result.
My Opinion
Pull Capacity
Line Speed
Build Quality
I recently purchased the X-BULL Wireless Remote winch as a few off roader friends use it often with their Jeep wrangler. I found the winch to be very reliable. The synthetic rope is durable and easy to handle. I’ve used it multiple times and it has exceeded my expectations. It fits well in your hand, but just be cautious about the wiring.
Product Timeline
The product was first launched on January 28, 2022. We are yet to see a refreshed version.
PROS
- Fits perfectly in hand.
- Wireless remote control.
- Automatic load-unload.
CONS
- Brackets are excluded.
- Can cause a short circuit if wiring is wrong.
Super-winch is rethinking the reasonable winch in the market. Standard elements incorporate a manufactured rope, aluminum hose, hardened steel equipment, fixed sub contactor solenoid, and programmed load holding brake configuration situated on the finish of the engine away from the drum’s middle to dispose of intensity move to the manufactured rope.
Powering the electric winch is a 6 HP motor sealed in such a way that no matter whether you are operating the winch in rain, snow or dust, you won’t have any issues. The weather sealed solenoid lessens down any damage which may be otherwise caused by rain or adverse weather conditions.
The superwinch also gets a 12 feet rubber hand held wired remote. The way it has been designed is such that you can effortlessly switch the winch. Being ergonomic is something that goes well with the design of this winch as it has free-spool control. If you are someone who doesn’t want to spend too much on expensive winches then this is the winch they can go for.
My Opinion
Pull Capacity
Line Speed
Build Quality
In my experience I felt Tiger Shark winch is made of high-quality aluminium and synthetic material, making it incredibly durable and long -lasting. The winch has a powerful pulling capacity and comes with the important accessories. I highly recommend the Superwinch 1511201 Tiger Shark Winch for anyone in need of a top-performing winching solution for their off-roading adventures.
Product Timeline
The product was first launched on June 2, 2014. We are yet to see a refreshed version.
PROS
- Super dependable.
- Reduces harm from rain and snow.
- Easy to grip.
- Effortless to work.
CONS
- Packaging is not good.
Powered by a 1.6 HP motor which is sealed, the Super-Winch is a highly efficient jeep winch that also has low amp draw and features mechanical load holding and comes along with dynamic braking system. One thing that sets these winches apart is that they are ergonomically designed.
An added advantage is that the gears are usually two times wider than the industry standards and it aids in proper engagement henceforth increasing the reliability and life of winches. This electric winch is also very quiet when compared to winches that have similar pulling capacity.
You get universal cables with the product and most importantly an incredibly quick customer support team who are quick to respond to any query you may have. This is an important aspect since many people get stuck when they are operating the winch for the first time. If you are tight on budget and looking for a decent option then is the best budget jeep winch you can go for.
My Opinion
Pull Capacity
Line Speed
Build Quality
Not every winch that is compact is powerful since it may have compromises but this one is powerful, and has a high pulling capacity. The included handlebar and handheld remote controls make it very convenient to use. The winch is also very easy to install and has performed flawlessly every time I’ve used it.
Product Timeline
The product was first launched on March 5, 2010. There have been multiple iterations after that but never a fully revised version.
PROS
- Hand-held wired remote.
- Lifetime warranty.
- Motor and clockwise motors.
- Superior execution ATV winching power.
CONS
- Not an excellent front-mount winch.
How to choose the right jeep winch ?
Choosing winches is very easy if you use them. We have seen which are the best winches for a Jeep, but which one do you want? Don’t panic. Follow this guide given below:
Types of winches
Hydraulic
The Hydraulic Winch creates power from compressed pressure-driven oil taken care of into the Hydro engine, and this engine, thusly, is associated with a Planetary gearbox which fosters the force. This force is utilized to move the drum on which the rope is twisted, consequently pulling the rope to accomplish the mechanical work.
You can winch the entire day consistently with a water-powered engine as long as the motor is running. On the off chance that it’s half exhausting, you will not get the greatest out of your pressure-driven winch. A few Jeeps accompany power directing siphons on the frail side to run a pressure-driven winch.
Electric
An electric winch is just basically as great as the power provided to it. Electric Winch is uncommonly intended for applications where space is at a higher cost than expected, these ideas and lightweight lifting winches are undeniably appropriate for establishment on cranes, davits, and derricks.
The single drum support empowers the rope to leave the drum at any point.
For periodic use, most Jeepers are subject to a winch; electric is above and beyond. For the high-obligation cycle, electric winching picked a hearty worm gear winch.
Pull Line Rating
The main significant thought is the winch maker’s line pull rating. Evaluated line pull alludes to the most extreme measure of weight that a winch can bear, so you want a winch with sufficient solidarity to deal with your vehicle’s weight.
Regularly, there are three or four layers, and the first has the “least” gear proportion and the most force. How much force is sufficient?
The guideline at least is to take your GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight) and increase it by 1.5.
Type of rope
Synthetic Rope
Synthetic rope is for the newcomer, and there are parts to discuss. A couple of premium winch bundles come new with manufactured rope. Most winch producers offer an engineered rope redesign, and you can purchase the rope independently to overhaul most seasoned winches.
The synthetic rope likewise has a couple of weaknesses. It has a high starting expense; however, its unrivaled execution makes it a decent worth, generally speaking.
Steel Cable
Metal cable is also known as wire rope. It is the conventional option. It comprises strands of carbon steel cable, normally seven heaps of 19 strands. In addition to the side, wire rope is more impervious to scraped spots than engineered ones. It’s very heat safe and moderately economical. The metal cable can store a lot of motor energy and whip with lethal impact if something loosens up.
Mounting system
We’ll pass on the looks division to your great eyes; however, anything mounts you pick should have the option to deal with the pulling limit of the winch. An excess of weight might make your front suspension hang lower.
Introducing a winch mounting plate on the front guard of your vehicle permits you to add the capacity to recuperate vehicles with a winch or join a furrow.
If you can’t do that appropriately, the link might get harmed. Additionally, the link that is challenging to get to builds the gamble of hand wounds when re-spooling.
Waterproofing
Keeps the components from the interruption of water and sand and adjusts to unforgiving circumstances. Since you will utilize your vehicle outside, it should be waterproof or water-safe. Always check for the IP67 OR IP68 waterproof rating when buying. By and large, winches can get sodden for a brief period without being harmed.
In any case, it will fluctuate contingent upon the piece of the winch getting wet along with different circumstances. In any case, when your truck gets stuck, it won’t ruin your day. Waterproof development that keeps the components out.
Rope length
To begin, as referenced prior, your winch’s most extreme evaluated pull is on the primary layer of line, so to get the greatest force, you need to spool out bunches of links.
This is a particularly feasible arrangement assuming you have manufactured rope rather than wire rope on your winch.
Size
The important variable to consider is the winch size. The heavier the vehicle, the more remarkable winch you’ll require. You can compute it by taking the gross vehicle weight and increasing it by 1.5.
This is the base rating; however certain variables can cause your winch ability to be surpassed.
Best winch Size >= GVWR x 1.5
The 1.5X rule is the business standard. However, for better well-being, you ought to pick one that has a limit more than that.
I have written a separate article on jeep winch size giving more details on what winch size to choose for jeep, do check it out
FAQs
Jeeps have mounting plates of their own. Thus, before installing any jeep winch, you must install a winch plate.
For a jeep, 9500 is about average. The only consideration is how much line is attached to the winch. The additional length would provide extra security in case you needed to reach an anchor point farther or double the winch line to double the winch burden to escape a more challenging scenario.
The weight of your winch should, as a general rule, be at least 1.5 times that of your Jeep Wrangler’s curb weight. However, you may double your gross vehicle weight (GVW) by 1.5 if your Jeep is completely equipped other than the winch you’ll be adding.
The traditional rule of thumb is to choose a winch with a pull rating of 1.5 times your off-road vehicle’s curb weight. To put it another way, if your Jeep, truck, 4×4, SUV, buggy, or whatever weighed 4,000 pounds, choosing a 6,000-pound winch would be excellent.
You can get a decent winch for between $350 and $750. These are typically straightforward bumper-mounted winches with lower line pull capacities, ranging from 5,000 to 7,000 pounds, but they are excellent for lightweight cars and occasional use.
A novel double-lipped seal design on the VRS IP68 waterproof winch prevents water and silt from entering the gearbox when it moves sideways. The winch’s complete IP68 rating indicates that it is waterproof, dust-resistant, and dirt-resistant.
More than anything else, the weight of your vehicle determines the optimal size of a winch. Unfortunately, a large winch risks damaging your 4WD’s structure.
If you’re planning any off-road adventures, you owe it to your group and yourself to have the necessary recovery supplies. For example, it could be essential to have items like gloves, D-rings, recovery straps, bow shackles, tree trunk protection, and snatch blocks.
Wireless remote control provide greater flexibility and convenience than traditional hard-wired controllers. Now, a cutting-edge solution that enables users to manage their winch through a new app has made this choice even more practical.
Some bumpers call for first installing the winch within the bumper before lifting and fastening the car’s complete (heavy!) system.
After the winch is placed, other bumpers might not give enough clearance for the winch line to be attached to the drum.
It’s good when you can attach the winch line first, then place the winch into the bumper mount, but this isn’t always doable.
Verdict
With the rigorous testing done, I feel Warn VR Evo 8 is the best winch for jeep for its optimum capacity to pull weight, ability to handle adverse situations and the overall build quality.
For someone who wants the best budget option, we will recommend Superwinch 1135220 which is similar to Warn winch in multiple ways but for users who looking for a winch at a reasonable price tag.
Summary
Now that we have compiled the article, we hope you have a rough idea on all the factors to consider when buying a winch for the jeep and also what are usually the cons that you need to keep an eye upon.
In crux, its very important to focus on the build quality of the winch as it determines other factors like life of winch and also how efficient it will perform when it’s actually required.
References
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IP ratings | IEC. (n.d.-b). https://www.iec.ch/ip-ratings
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Kyle. (2023c, 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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Corrosionpedia, W. I. W. R.-. D. F. (2020b). Weather resistance. Corrosionpedia. https://www.corrosionpedia.com/definition/6111/weather-resistance
