Quick Answer: Best Truck Winch
- Smittybilt 97495 XRC Winch Best overall winch
- Smittybilt (98512) X2O Waterproof Synthetic Rope Winch Best value for money
- Superwinch 1595200 Tiger Shark 9.5 Best durable winch
- Superwinch 1510200 LP10000 Winch Best winch for energy efficiency
- WARN 26502 M8000 8000-lb Winch Best wide-range mountable winch
- Warn 95950 Zeon 12-S Winch Best strongest winch
- Warn 89611 ZEON 10-S Winch Best feature-balanced winch
- Rugged Ridge 15100.01 8,500Lb Winch Best safety-feature winch
- WARN 68801 16.5ti Thermometric Winch Best thermometic winch
- Superwinch 1515200 Tiger Shark 15.5 Best heavy-duty winch
Top 3 Picks
pressed for time? Check out our top picks
How We Decided: 24 products considered. 900+ reviews analyzed, 16 research hours spent, 28+ info. sources referred
More often than not, someone who owns a truck will find themselves needing a winch at some point or another.
Trucks are associated with heavy loads, and, sometimes, a little extra help might be necessary to get it moving.
Human effort may not be sufficient to provide the extra pull required. This is when the winch will come in quite handy to provide some essential assistance.
Product | Motor | Line Pull | Line | Price |
---|---|---|---|---|
Smittybilt 97495 XRC Winch | 6.6 hp | 9500 | 94 ft | |
Smittybilt (98512) X2O | 6.6 hp | 12000 | 98 ft | |
Superwinch 1595200 Tiger Shark 9.5 | 6.0 hp | 11500 | 95 ft | |
Superwinch 1510200 LP10000 Winch | 5.1 hp | 10000 | 85 ft | |
WARN 26502 M8000 8000-lb Winch | 4.8 hp | 8000 | 80 ft | |
Warn 95950 Zeon 12-S Winch | 12V DC | 12000 | 80 ft | |
Warn 89611 ZEON 10-S Winch | 12V DC | 10000 | 100 ft | |
Rugged Ridge 15100.01 8,500Lb Winch | 5.5 hp | 8500 | 94 ft | |
WARN 68801 16.5ti Thermometric Winch | 4.6 hp | 16,500 | 50 ft | |
Superwinch 1515200 Tiger Shark 15.5 | 5.7 HP | 15,500 | 92 ft |
Contents
- Quick Answer: Best Truck Winch
- Top 3 Picks
- Reviews of the Best Truck Winch
- Smittybilt 97495 XRC Winch
- Smittybilt (98512) X2O Waterproof Synthetic Rope Winch
- Superwinch 1595200 Tiger Shark 9.5
- Superwinch 1510200 LP10000 Winch
- WARN 26502 M8000 8000-lb winch
- Warn 95950 Zeon 12-S Winch
- Warn 89611 ZEON 10-S Winch
- Rugged Ridge 15100.01 8,500Lb Winch
- WARN 68801 16.5ti Thermometric Winch
- Superwinch 1515200 Tiger Shark 15.5
- Buying Guide for Best Truck Winch
- Why you Need a Truck Winch
- FAQs
- Summary
Reviews of the Best Truck Winch
Smittybilt 97495 XRC Winch
Best winch overall
If you are looking for a truck winch, then you need something with strength and power at its core. Smittybilt designed this one specifically for such tasks.
With a 3 stage planetary gear system added to its 6.6 hp amphibious motor, sheer raw power is the output of this robust winch.
Key specifications
- 6.6 hp amphibious motor
- 12 volts
- Load capacity of 9500 lbs.
- IP67 waterproof rating
- Comes with a corded remote
- Wiring installation kit
- Weight – 78 lbs.
- 2.5 inches drum diameter
Pros
- Water-resistant
- Very powerful
- Comes with warranties
- Three solenoid mounting positions
Cons
- The motor constantly overheats
This winch has waterproof features making it suitable for use in wet environments. The astounding 9500 lbs. load capacity makes it capable of handling trucks, trailers, and other heavy vehicles and machines.
You will receive a kit that has all the necessary wiring needed during installation. The machine also comes with a lifetime mechanical warranty and a 3-year electrical warranty.
Smittybilt has developed a reputation for its sturdy and robust winches during its 50 years in the business. In the same light, this winch delivers what it promises.
Therefore, if you want a winch capable of bailing your SUV, trailer, 4×4, or any other truck when it gets stuck, this is the right product for you. It does not falter in its performance, and it will serve you for a long time.
Smittybilt (98512) X2O Waterproof Synthetic Rope Winch
Best value for money
12000 pounds of load capacity! That’s what you’ll get for your money when you purchase this winch. Other exceptional features include an amphibious motor with 6.6 hp, waterproof capabilities, a synthetic cable (safest), and mechanical and electrical warranties.
And these are only but a few to mention. In summary, this winch gives you value for every dollar you pay for it.
Key specifications
- 12 volts
- Load capacity – 12000 lbs.
- 3 stage planetary gear system
- 6.6 hp series wound motor
- Wireless remote
- Weight – 67 pounds
- Length of synthetic cable – 98 ft.
- 2.5-inch drum diameter
- IP68 waterproof rating
- Product dimensions – 22.3 x 5.4 x 9.4 inches (LWH)
Pros
- A high load capacity
- Suitable for professional work
- Fits in most large vehicles
- Enhanced durability
- Lots of mounting options
Cons
- It may be difficult for beginners to use
The Smittybilt (98512) X2O winch boasts of a 500 AMP solenoid that can be mounted in several positions. It also features a wireless remote so that you can control this beast of a machine from a safe distance.
The synthetic cable is also another safety aspect since it does not pose the threat of recoil in case it snaps.
This winch comes with a five-year electrical warranty and a lifetime mechanical warranty. It runs on a 3 stage planetary gear system and an amphibious motor.
This winch does not disappoint in its performance and is highly durable, making it worth every penny.
Superwinch 1595200 Tiger Shark 9.5
Best durable winch
This winch has been uniquely modified with tailored features meant to protect it from damage, thus giving it a longer lifespan. It’s a product for the person looking for something durable and yet highly efficient in its performance.
Among its protective features include weather sealing for the motor and solenoid. This protects them from dust, rain, or snow.
Key specifications
- 6.0 hp motor
- 12V DC
- Remote
- Aluminum hawse fairlead
- Synthetic cable
- Weight – 32 lbs.
- Length of rope – 95 ft.
- Remote cable length – 12 ft.
Pros
- Motor and solenoid are protected by covering seals
- Has a high load capacity
- Remote control feature
- Ergonomic design
Cons
- Difficult installation process
- Seals can fail if exposed to wet conditions for too long
This winch comes with an ergonomic design that makes it effortless to operate and easy to grip. It also has a remote control and synthetic rope for safety.
The motor and solenoid are well protected inside their concealments from elements of weather and dust particles that could clog or damage them.
The hardware of the winch and the attachment plate is also made of stainless steel to give it increased durability.
It also comes with an automatic braking system and a 3 stage planetary gearbox capable of tackling stressful tasks that demand high torque.
The drum has added features that drive heat away from the center so that it does not damage the cable.
Superwinch 1510200 LP10000 Winch
Best winch for energy efficiency
The Superwinch 1510200 LP10000 Winch comes with a fairlead roller, a 5.1, 12-volt hp motor, and a line pull rating of 10000 pounds. This product is ideal for people looking for an energy-efficient winch.
It also has an 85-foot cable for a more extended reach.
Key specifications
- 85-foot cable
- 5.1 hp motor
- A handheld remote with a 12-foot cable
- Weather-sealed solenoid
- Automatic braking system
- Weight – 82.9 lbs.
- Power load in and out
- Limited 2-year warranty
Pros
- The motor s weather resistant
- High performance
- Durable
- Comes with a limited warranty
Cons
- The water-resistant feature of this winch is not IP67 rated
This winch is powerful and highly efficient in its performance. The 10000-pound pull rating ensures it can handle demanding tasks that require high torque and strength.
It is also designed to fit comfortably in any RV, trailer, or 4×4 vehicle.
The steel cable is attached to a heavy-duty hook for safety reasons. The circuit breaker and solenoid are protected by weather sealing from dust, rain, or other elements of nature.
This winch is a blend of versatility, power, and efficiency, which all work together to provide value to the user. It can be used in different tasks, including wet conditions.
However, do not expose it to water for prolonged periods as it affects the sealing. You will also enjoy smooth control with the remote that has a 12-foot cable.
WARN 26502 M8000 8000-lb winch
Best wide-range mountable winch
This 8000-pound winch comes with a variety of options in how you can mount it. It offers power in and out and has a very long cable that makes it easy to do pulling jobs over long distances.
The cable is an impressive 100 feet, although an 80-foot option is available. This product is fit for anyone who wants a winch that can be used on any vehicle, boat, or simply fixed onto a single spot.
Key specifications
- 4.8 hp motor
- 3 stage planetary gearbox
- A remote that comes with 12 feet of cable
- An automatic brake system
- Weight – 83 pounds
- 2.5-inch drum diameter
- Cable length – 80 feet
- Product dimensions – 21.04 x 6.3 x 7.6 (LWH)
Pros
- Compact design
- Has a really long cable
- Remote control
- Tough and durable
Cons
- The winch can be difficult to install
This winch is a tough and high powered machine that attends to tasks efficiently. It features a compact design making it fit well in most vehicles, especially SUVs, Jeeps, and other trucks.
This winch has focused on service provision for off-roaders, making it a great choice for such trips.
The remote of this winch is also another worthy mention. It is ergonomic and rubberized. The device is resistant to mud and adverse weather, making it efficient in its operations.
All the aspects of this winch make it a perfect choice if you need one that can be used in a range of tough to get out of situations.
Warn 95950 Zeon 12-S Winch
Best strongest winch
Speed, power, and efficiency are the optimal terms worth describing the Warn 95950 Zeon 12-S Winch. Strength and durability were the core features put into play during the construction of this robust machine.
All its features and materials are geared towards making it last longer and performing at an impressive efficiency. It’s the right winch for professionals who deal with cumbersome and difficult to tow objects.
Key specifications
- 12V DC motor series wound
- Line pull rate – 12,000 lbs.
- Weight – 80 lbs.
- Length of cable – 80 feet
- Remote switch
Pros
- Built for heavy jobs
- Highly durable
- High load capacity
- Has speed
Cons
- Very expensive
With an exceptional load capacity of 12,000 pounds, this beast will move any truck, trailer, SUV, Jeep, and other heavy vehicles. The rope is synthetically made from the sturdiest and robust of Spydura pro features.
The cable has also undergone heat treatment to minimize its chances of being damaged by heat from the drum.
Strength is not the only thing this winch offers. Speed is one of its primary elements. This winch works fast, thus spending a shorter time on tasks. All this is thanks to its reliable planetary gear system.
The clutch and fasteners are also made from stainless steel for strength and durability. There is also a waterproof sealing that protects the motor. This sealing is IP68 rated.
If you are willing to pay more for a powerful and long-lasting winch, then no other product beats this option.
Warn 89611 ZEON 10-S Winch
Best feature-balanced winch
The design of this winch has ensured there is consistency throughout its entirety for optimal balance. This machine is capable of handling load capacities of up to 10,000 pounds.
It comes with a roller fairlead and synthetic rope. All this makes it suitable for a wide range of demanding tasks, making it a highly industrious choice.
Key specifications
- 12V DC motor
- Line pull rating – 10,000 lbs.
- Remote controlled with a 12-foot cable
- Length of cable – 100 feet
- Drum diameter – 3.15 inches
- Weight – 75 pounds
Pros
- Powerful
- Highly durable
- Aluminum casing for added protection
- Corrosion-resistant
Cons
- Costly
Safety and durability are some of the features embedded in this winch. The synthetic rope is made from robust materials, but they also have little to no recoil in case the cable snaps.
The fasteners have a stainless steel finish, and the clutch has been made corrosion resistant. All these features give this tool an extended lifetime.
It also has multiple mounting options for you to choose from. Sensitive parts such as the motor are housed inside an aluminum casing that protects them from harsh conditions that could damage them.
This is one of the most advanced winches on the market today. It’s a choice that balances out its features and capabilities. You’ll not regret owning one of these, especially for industrial jobs.
Rugged Ridge 15100.01 8,500Lb Winch
Best safety-feature winch
This lightweight, durable, and yet powerful winch comes with several safety aspects that make your work with it safer.
It features automatic load-holding, remote control, and an instructional manual with further guidance on how to use it safely. It’s a fit machine for beginners who want to be more cautious when handling winches.
Key specifications
- Load capacity of 8500 pounds
- 5.5 hp, 12V motor
- Integrated solenoid module
- Remote control with a 12-foot cable
- 94-foot steel cable
- 2.52-inch drum diameter
- Product dimensions – 22 x 6.3 x 8.1 (LWH)
Pros
- Lasts a long time
- Reliable
- Automatic loading brake system
- Remote control for added safety
- Tough exterior
- Easy to install
Cons
- The solenoid is not of the best quality
The 12-foot remote cable ensures you are a safe distance as you control the operation of your winch. The drum’s brake system is automatic and kicks into action in case of a system failure during ongoing activity.
This brake system also minimizes the chances of spillage during a power failure.
The motor provides sufficient power, and the 3-stage planetary gear delivers reliable and consistent power supply. The body is corrosion resistant to give it a long life.
You can also mount the solenoid box in various positions based on your preferences.
You will receive a limited warranty for 5 years. This warranty, however, covers manufacturing defects only.
WARN 68801 16.5ti Thermometric Winch
Best thermometric winch
This winch stands as one of the most unique and powerful machines of its kind. It boasts an impressive 16,500 pulling capacity making it one of the best winches for handling heavy vehicles and professional-grade jobs.
There are so many features integrated into it, including a thermometric indicator.
Key specifications
- The motor is a 4.6 hp Gen II series
- Thermometric indicator
- Remote control with a 12-foot cable
- Integrated flashlight
- Weight – 134 lbs.
- A 3-stage planetary gear system
- Cable length of 50 ft.
Pros
- Very powerful
- Highly durable
- Reliable
- Continuous feedback on winch diagnostics during use from the thermometric indicator
Cons
- Huge and extremely heavy
- Short cable length for a winch of its size
This winch is one of the most powerful models built by WARN. Despite its intense capacity, it is not the most ideal for handling vehicles and boats.
This is because of its massive weight. It is cumbersome to install, and it may not fit due to its vast size.
However, for those who need it for industrial use, then you are looking at one of the best winches in that sector. It will handle almost any task with ease due to its high power output.
The thermometric indicator ensures you continuously get feedback on its performance during use. This indicator also lets you know the temperature inside the motor.
Superwinch 1515200 Tiger Shark 15.5
Best heavy-duty winch
The Superwinch Tiger Shark series is renowned for its excellent performance, especially in power output. This model lives up to the name.
It comes with a 5.7 hp motor, and all its parts are weather-sealed to protect it from elements of weather. It’s basically a powerful winch with a durable life.
Key specifications
- 5.7 hp motor
- Rubber remote with a 12-foot cable
- Weight – 140 pounds
- 4-stage planetary gearbox
- Length of cable – 92 feet
Pros
- Weather sealing
- Limited 2-year warranty
- Durable
- Highly efficient
Cons
- Some may have installation difficulties
This machine has raised the bar of winches in the market. The solenoid of this winch and motor are safely tucked inside a seal that protects them from dust, snow, and rain.
The remote has an ergonomic design making it easy to grip. Its 12-foot cable keeps you at a safe distance as you execute commands to your winch.
The winch is designed for the enthusiast-level consumer, although it can also serve for some professional-grade jobs. It is highly suitable for off-roaders, harsh outdoor conditions, and owners of heavy trucks or boats.
Superwinch has delivered an impressive heavy-duty winch that can handle itself well even when under stress. It delivers the required torque to get the job done.
The protective elements ensure that the tough and abrasive environment does not corrode your winch. This product is definitely a top choice if you need something that gives you value for your money.
Buying Guide for Best Truck Winch
In general, if you have a truck, there is a high probability that it was bought to engage in heavy-duty tasks, such as vehicle recovery. Therefore, you will need a winch capable of assisting you with all your heavy-duty jobs.
As a truck owner, you probably have a few ideas about the kind of winch you’d like to have.
However, before you set off to get one, it is crucial to be aware of a couple of things. These factors are instrumental in making an informed decision.
Four essential considerations and guidelines exist that you should factor in before having a winch installed on your truck. These include the following:
The Pulling Capacity
Accidents and mishaps occur when the winch being used is pulling weights that exceed its rated towing capacity. The cable might snap or worse.
Such incidents may result in damage to your vehicle or injuries to the people present trying to help.
Be sure to weigh your options on the right winch to purchase for your truck. It will be worth investing an extra dollar or two to get one with a high pulling capacity.
Conventionally, a winch with at least 6,500 pounds of pulling capacity is preferred.
Cable Quality
For most winches currently available on the market, the cable is attached to the motor. Often, you will find two variants, which are the steel and synthetic options.
For the majority of buyers, the tendency is to purchase synthetic cables, as they offer greater flexibility and their tensile strength is high.
Ease of access
In some trucks, the winch does not have additional accessories, such as the drum spool or the winch activation and deactivation remote controllers.
Quality models are available that include all the necessary accessories for the winch’s operation. They also have detailed manuals for ease of use.
Seal-proof
It is critical that the motor is protected from all manner of natural and external factors. This ensures that it does not malfunction as you are engaged in the job.
A variety of on-site accidents happen as a result of a motor malfunction. Therefore, you should go for a winch that has a sealed motor.
Why you Need a Truck Winch
You should make it your goal to go for the best available truck winch. It will not only prove reliable but will also offer enhanced performance under conditions of extreme pressure.
They are heavy-duty and could save you from a lot of unforeseen issues in the future.
The waterproof capability provided by the seal-proof feature guarantees protection of the motor. This increases the efficiency of the device while, at the same time, enhancing its durability.
The features associated with the machine will not only free the truck when it is stuck but will also reduce the risk of accidents during the job.
FAQs
You may still be wondering if you need a truck winch or how it works. If so, keep reading below to see the answers to come of the most commonly asked questions.
It is a mechanical tool that develops a pulling force through a cable wrapped around a drum that is centrally positioned. Always check to ensure that your cable can handle the power which you are about to apply to it during use.
Repairs and maintenance are vital to ensure the durability of the winch. They will also help you spot any wearing and tearing that may be happening with the cables or weak spots that may need to be fixed.
Wrong installation of the winch could render it ineffective or even damage the vehicle. Therefore, a hitch should be located on the front bumper to mount the winch. After securely mounting the winch, a wire is connected to the source of power and a switch installed. Make sure that the winch is spooled tightly.
Summary
Before making up your mind on what winch to buy, it is important that you weigh all the options before you.
Consider the durability of the device, its versatility, and its effectiveness, as well as the cost-efficiency of the tool.
The ideal winch will vary from person to person based on the intended use and the power of the vehicle.