A portable winch is a very handy tool when you are riding through a hazardous road. And choosing the best portable winch is a big problem when you are hearing lots of mouthwatering marketing words from different manufacturers.
Side apart your worries and go through this whole article. Since today I am going to share with you an in-depth review of the ten best top-notch portable winches.
I also share with you a comprehensive buying guide to help you make the right purchase decision. I will also try to answer some of the common questions about portable winches.
So let’s dig in without any further talk.
Megaflint Trailer Winch
Top Features
- Dual-mode operation.
- Low noise.
- Great performance.
KEEPER KW95122-1 12V DC Heavy Duty Winch
Top Features
- Heavy pulling capacity.
- Low weight.
- 3 stage planetary gear.
KEEPER KW75122RM-1 12V DC Rapid Mount Portable Winch
Top Features
- Powerful engine.
- Fairlead 4-way roller.
- 72 feet long galvanized wire.
Table of Contents
1. KEEPER KW95122RM-1 12V DC Rapid Mount Portable Winch
The KEEPER KW75122RM winch packs every facility you need from a portable winch. It is easy to carry away, install, and operate. It’s packed with essential features for efficient and reliable operation.
The winch comes with heavy-duty solenoid and wireless remote control facilities. The remote is included with the pack, so you won’t need to buy it separately.
The winch has roller fairlead included and Lift and turn free-spool clutch facilities. It features a 3-stage planetary gearbox with case hardened gears.
There is a high density LED light integrated with handled remote which makes it extra comfortable for the users to use the winch in dark situations.
The winch features a powerful 5.5 hp series wound with 12v dc motor. It has an automatic full load-holding brake for the ease of the users.
The 100’L x 21/64” diameter galvanized wire rope with clevis hook and safety latch is something excellent to have in a portable winch.
Technical features
- 9500 lbs. pulling capacity.
- 5.5 hp series wound motor.
- A three-stage planetary gear system.
- Heavy-duty four-way roller fairlead.
- Lift and turn free-spool clutch.
Specifications
- Brand : KEEPER.
- Dimension : 21.3 x 6.3 x 8.6 inches.
- Weight : 25 pounds.
Why Will You Like This Product?
The winch is very powerful yet comes with all the characteristics of a portable winch. And that’s why one should go for this winch from Keeper.
PROS
- Remote control facility.
- LED light with handheld remote.
- Powerful engine.
- Roller fairlead included.
- Easy installation and operation.
CONS
- No major drawbacks.
2. Master Lock Electric Winch
This winch is particularly suitable for cars, trailers, trucks, and boats. The winch comes with a maximum rolling capacity of 6000 lbs. pulling capacity of 2000 lbs. and 5000 lbs. marine capacity. It can pull out boats up to 5000 lbs. in weight and 18 feet long in size.
The model comes with a steel mounting plate, 30 feet long steel cable, remote control, hand crank, and 20 feet long power cable. The toggle remote control helps you to operate the winch from distant places easily.
The winch is extremely easy to install and operate. The manufacturer’s manual describes all the process in easy plain language.
The winch includes a galvanized steel cable and hooks for additional safety. It can be temporarily or permanently mounted to either a ball-mount hitch or a flat surface.
All in all, it’s a great portable device from Master Lock at a low price.
Technical features
- Remote control system.
- 2000 lbs. pulling and 6000 lbs. rolling capacity.
- 30 feet long steel cable.
- Steel mounting plate.
- 20 feet long power cable.
Specifications
- Brand : Master Lock.
- Dimension : 14 x 12 x 10 inches.
- Weight : 25.4 pounds.
Why Will You Like This Product?
The winch is a compact one for low to medium size work and comes in an inexpensive price tag. I think the price tag is the main reason one should go for this winch.
PROS
- Easy to install and operate.
- Lightweight.
- Remote control facility.
- Sturdy cable.
- Steel mounting plate.
CONS
- Low pulling capacity.
3. Megaflint Trailer Winch
This winch from Megaflint comes with the dual-mode operation, power in and out system, and freewheel operation.
It has a low noise design, run without any ratcheting noise. It has 4 dynamic brakes as well as mechanical friction brakes for better control.
The winch’s enhanced power design makes it capable of pulling out thirty percent more than the regular 6000 lbs. winches. It has galvanized steel cable and hooks for additional safety.
The winch has 6000 lbs. pulling capacity, 5000 lbs. rolling capacity, 2000 lbs. marine capacity and 5000 lbs. a maximum boat pulling capacity.
The winch comes with rocker switch corded remote control, 16 feet power cord. This winch is perfect for pulling out boats, trailers, trucks, and cars.
Technical features
- 35 feet long cable.
- Line Speed: 6 Feet/Minute with Load.
- Power Supply: 12 Volts Stall Load: 2,100lbs.
- Corded remote control.
- Dual-mode operation.
Specifications
- Brand : Megaflint.
- Dimension : 16 x 12.1 x 11 inches.
- Weight : 27.4 pounds.
Why Will You Like This Product?
The main reason one should go for this winch is its powerful engine. Its 6000 lbs. engine is thirty percent more powerful than other engines with the same pulling capacity.
PROS
- Can be operated both electrically and manually.
- Low noise.
- Higher power than average winches.
- Have both dynamic and mechanical friction brake.
- Dual direction winch.
CONS
- No cordless remote control option.
4. Bravex Electric Winch
Bravex electric winch has 30 percent more pulling power than other winches of this category. It makes pulling out things smooth and easy.
The winch features Dual direction electric winching (pulling and spooling – Power in and power out). It has a Dual operation mode, both electric and manual winching. The hand crank winching model in an emergency situation is a great facility to have in a portable winch.
The model has an automatic braking system for better control of the users. It produces very low noise when pulling things like cars, boats, and trailers, etc.
Galvanized steel cable and hook for additional safety makes it a stand out choice for the users.
The winch has 2000 lbs. pulling capacity, 6000 lbs. rolling capacity, 5000 lbs. marine capacity can pull boats maximum weight of 5000 lbs. and 18 feet long.
The manufacturer provides two years of warranty for this winch. So you can remain worry-free for this time period. Note that steel cable doesn’t fall under the warranty policy as it is a consumable product.
Technical features
- 2000 lbs. pulling capacity.
- 16.4-inch power cable.
- 30 feet long pulling cable.
- Stall Load: 2,100lbs.
- Power Supply: 12 Volts.
Specifications
- Brand : Bravex.
- Dimension : 16.3 x 12 x 11.5 inches.
- Weight : 24.4 pounds.
Why Will You Like This Product?
The winch’s build quality is great and comes at a reasonable price. That’s why one should go for this winch from Bravex.
PROS
- Sturdy build quality.
- Low noise.
- Lightweight.
- Dual-mode operation.
- Great quality crank handle.
CONS
- The corded remote could be a bit longer.
5.WARN 885000 PullzAll Corded 120V AC Portable Electric Winch
This particular winch from renowned brand Warn manufactured in China. It’s extremely easy to install and use. And the build quality is top-notch.
This winch has 1000 lbs. pulling capacity. For its low pulling power it will be perfect for pulling out utility lifting and pulling.
The winch is not a good option for pulling out vehicles like trucks, trailers, cars, and SUVs. Despite its shortcomings still, it is one of the most popular portable winches in the market for its great build quality.
The winch is great for construction, pipe fitting, ironwork, equipment/plant maintenance, auto shops, garages, and machine shop. It is also ideal for farm and ranch use, home improvement, hunting, camping, and more.
The winch is designed to move heavy machinery, hoist an engine block, or lift a load precisely into place, then nail it, weld it, and get the job done.
The PullzAll has a variable-speed control trigger with a forward and reverses control button allowing for exact movements. At 15 lbs., PullzAll is easy to use and highly portable.
Technical features
- 1000 lbs. pulling capacity.
- No-load line speed: 13.8 fpm.
- Wire rope measures 15′ of 7/32’’.
- LED indicator for feedback while lifting and pulling.
- Electronic load limiter to prevent overloading.
Specifications
- Brand : Warn.
- Dimension : 19 x 12 x 12 inches.
- Weight : 2 pounds.
Why Will You Like This Product?
Those who want a low pulling capacity from a renowned brand with a great build quality, this winch from Warn will perfectly suit them.
PROS
- Lightweight.
- Easy to use.
- Led bulb for overload indicator.
- Great build quality.
- PullzAll helps to get more done in less time.
CONS
- Low pulling capacity.
6.WARN 910500 Handheld Portable Drill Winch
The winch features a Free-spool clutch which makes rigging fast and easy. It includes 30 feet long wire rope, integrated hawse fairlead, and rigging hooks.
This multipurpose tool assists in everything from moving heavy nursery stock to pulling a rolling load up onto a trailer.
The winch can be easily carried away in distance places for its lees weight and small dimensions.
The winch can move the vehicles on a plain or inclined ground. The key advantage of this device is that it is powered by a hand drill. On the winch, you just have to put the drill into the connector so that you can continue working.
Due to lightweight and small dimensions, the winch can both be transported in the trunk and carried in a bag.
Technical features
- 500 lbs. pulling capacity.
- Free-spool clutch for rigging fast and easy.
- 30 feet long wire rope.
- Integrated cable rope.
- 2 towing hooks.
Specifications
- Brand : Warn.
- Dimension : Free-spool clutch.
- Weigh : 12.63 pounds.
Why Will You Like This Product?
The winch has less weight and small dimension, which makes it easy to carry at distance places conveniently. And that should be the main reason when someone considering buying this winch.
PROS
- Lightweight and highly portable.
- Multiple rigging hooks.
- Easy to store.
- Integrated load limit.
- Free spool clutch.
CONS
- Can’t pull heavy objects.
7.Pro-LifT I-9620 Grey Portable Electrical Winch
This pro lift winch has 2000 lbs. pulling capacity. It is suitable for basic works like positioning loads and moving them to different places.
The winch includes power lead with the package. It has a remote control switch for an easy and safe operation of the winch.
The mounting bracket for trailer hitches ball mounting. It has an Emergency crank handle with an adjustable clutch for better control of the winch.
The Pro-Lift I-9620 can be used as an aid in positioning rolling loads that are too big to be positioned by hand around the farm or the home.
The winch comes with a 30 feet long cable and an attached hook for ease of use. It packs a wired remote with the package.
When things don’t quite go your way when pulling things, the crank handle comes out very useful. This makes this a genuinely compact winch which literally can be used everywhere.
Technical features
- 2000 lbs. pulling capacity.
- Wired remote control.
- 30 feet long winch cable.
- Attached hook.
- Mounting bracket for trailer hitch ball mounting.
Specifications
- Brand : Pro-LifT.
- Dimension : 15.36 x 9.84 x 11.14 inches.
- Weight : 22.3 pounds.
Why Will You Like This Product?
When considering this winch for purchasing, its reasonable price and sturdy materials make it a good buy for the users.
PROS
- Remote control facility.
- Sturdy build materials.
- Emergency crank handle.
- Mounting Bracket .
CONS
- A wireless remote would be great to have.
8. Master Lock 2955AT 1500lb Portable ATV Winch
This winch from Master Lock comes with 1500 lbs. pulling capacity and a 12 volt DC electric motor. It has a robust planetary gearing which delivers high-torque and radial load capacity in a small envelope.
The compact size of the winch ensures easy installation and operation. It has 35 feet galvanized steel cable of which 34 feet is usable by the users.
A 35–foot galvanized steel cable and nylon hand–saver safety strap is also included. Another great feature the winch has is the remote control with rocker switch.
The winch’s maximum stall load is 1875 lbs. / 850kg. It has a line speed of 6.4 ft. /minute (no-load).
Technical features
- 1500 lbs pulling capacity.
- Line Speed: 6.4 ft./minute (no load).
- Power Supply: 12 Volts DC.
- 35 feet long cable.
- Planetary gearing system.
Specifications
- Brand : Master Lock.
- Specifications : 12 x 6 x 4 inches.
- Weight : 13.7 pounds.
Why Will You Like This Product?
This winch doesn’t have any extraordinary facilities, yet if someone needs a compact size and lightweight winch then he can go for it.
PROS
- Lightweight.
- Highly portable.
- Compact size.
- Planetary gear system.
- Remote control with rocker switch.
CONS
- Less powerful engine.
9. KEEPER KW75122RM-1 12V DC Rapid Mount Portable Winch
The KEEPER KW75122RM-1 comes with 4.5 horsepower series wound and 12 Volt DC motor. It has a handheld pendant switch attached to 15 foot lead with high density LED light and wireless winch control.
The power in and out facility makes it easy to operate the winch. It has 2 foot of 5/16 inch diameter galvanized wire rope with a looped thimble; latched clevis hook and red warning area.
Keeper has important features for effective and secure portable service. The increased-efficiency, 3-stage planetary gearbox, and 4.5 horsepower engines are powerful and also have a 7,500-pound pull line rating.
The integrated maximum load keeping brake and regular Fairlead 4-way roller enable quick management of a wide load. Alert paint on the galvanized wire rope at the beginning and end ensures protection. Rope with normal cable tension plate is kept close.
Class III receiver hitch fits the keeper, maximizing the safety and performance of the winch is as simple as mounting the proper accessories. Keeper Winch provides pulley boards, belts for recovery, and several other devices tailored to match your individual needs.
Technical features
- 4.5 horsepower series wound motor.
- 72 feet long galvanized wire.
- Rapid mount fits Class III receiver hitch.
- Latched clevis hooks and warning area.
- Freewheel clutch.
Specifications
- Brand : Keeper.
- Dimension : 21.8 x 6.3 x 10.05 inches.
- Weight : 25 pounds.
Why Will You Like This Product?
Powerful performance; that is the only reason I will choose this winch. It has a fairly powerful engine despite being highly portable.
PROS
- Powerful engine.
- Easy to operate.
- Integrated load keeping brake.
- Fairlead 4-way roller.
CONS
- A bit high price.
10. Landworks Electric Portable Winch
The Landworks electric winch comes with a maximum of 1000 lbs. /455Kgs pulling capacity. It can vertically lift up to 20 feet, at a maximum speed of 5.5 feet per minute.
It features a 2-speed clutch optimized with forward & reverses applications. The winch has a brushless motor and planetary gears made from metals. It includes wear-resistant hooks and 20’Ft/6 m High-strength Polyethelyne on both sides.
The winch has quick load times & flexible feasibility of the environment, high load outputs, and long period shelf life.
The manufacturer has a devoted support team behind their portable winches, so you can knock them any time without any hesitation thinking that they are right there to help you.
It features one 2 Amp Hour Li-Ion Battery & Charger. If you want to get 4 Amp Hour Li-Ion batteries then you have to buy it separately.
Technical features
- 1000 lbs. pulling capacity.
- 20 feet of vertical lift capacity.
- Two integrated clutch.
- Steel planetary gears.
- Included 2 Amp Hour Li-Ion & Charger.
Specifications
- Brand : Landworks.
- Dimension : 12.4″ x 11.5″ x 9.8″.
- Weight : 24.1 pounds.
Why Will You Like This Product?
One should go for this winch for its high performance and convenient facilities provided by the manufacturer.
PROS
- Dynamic friction brake system.
- Fast charge times.
- High load power outputs.
- Good safety measures.
- Include two wear-resistant hooks.
CONS
- No significant drawbacks to mention.
A Compact Buying Guide: Best Portable Winch
Nobody likes it to purchase the wrong product and then regret it. And buying a portable winch is no different.
There are lots of portable winches available in the market. All have their characteristics, benefits, and drawbacks.
As a buyer, you need some clear knowledge about portable winch to make the right purchase decision. And that is what I am going to discuss in this section. So let’s dig in.
Winch Pulling Capacity
Winch pulling capacity is one of the most important factors when it comes to buying a winch. First, determine how much pulling capacity you require from a winch. Now choose a winch with a bit higher pulling capacity winch than your present requirements.
Weight
When purchasing a portable winch, you just can’t ignore the weight of the winch. If you buy a winch of heavyweight then definitely it will be difficult for you to carry different places. So choose one which is lightweight and easy to carry.
Dimension
The dimension of a portable winch must be small and compact. Otherwise, it will be a big hassle to carry this winch with you in distant places. You won’t be able to place the winch in your car or truck conveniently if the dimension isn’t small and compact.
Battery Capacity
A portable winch should have a higher battery capacity. Since you will carry your portable winch in distant places, you won’t be able to charge it whenever you want. You need a winch which will go for a long time with a single charge.
Built Materials
Nobody will like it to see a product get damaged right after purchasing it. So make sure that the winch you are buying is sturdy and well built. There are lots of winches available in the market with poor built quality and don’t last long. So check the quality carefully.
Brake
There are winches with different kinds of braking systems available in the market. Personally, I would suggest one which will have an automatic signal when pulling and lifting things. It will save you from any unusual accident.
Cable Size
Look for a winch with a longer cable size. That way you will get more flexibility and pull out things from long distances. It’s common that you may face the situation when you need to pull things from long distances and the long rope comes quite handy in these types of situations.
Water-Resistant
A portable winch should have a waterproof rating. Because you use it in outside condition regularly and there is always a chance of the winch get in touch with water. If it is not water-resistant then simply it will get damaged. And you won’t like it see happen to your winch.
Warranty
Everybody loves it to be tense free after purchasing a product. And a warranty policy ensures that. So look for a winch with a decent warranty period. That way you will be worry-free for a certain period of time since whatever happens in this time period, the seller will take responsibility for fixing it.
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FAQs
What is a portable winch?
Portable winches are small in size and compact in dimension. They can be easily placed in your trucks, cars, and SUVs. They are easy to carry away in different places.
What is the best portable winch for the money?
KEEPER KW75122RM-1 12V DC Rapid Mount Portable Winch will be the best portable winch for your money. Since this winch model provides great performance and sturdy built quality at a reasonable price.
How strong should a portable winch be?
A portable winch must be built with quality materials. Because you will take portable winch here and there frequently and if the winch isn’t good in quality then it may get damaged with slight reason.
Do winches need maintenance and repairs?
Of course, they need. Maintenance needs to be taken care of regularly for better performance for a longer period. And it’s very common to get your winch to get damaged at any time, then you must repair it to reuse.
What kinds of winch do I need to buy?
It depends on what you will do with your winch. Depending on your demand there are varieties of winches available in the market with different characteristics and quality.
Final Verdict…
A winch is always a very handy tool when it comes to pulling and lifting different things. And if its portable then the user gets a lot of benefits since he can pull and lift things in distance places outside home easily using the winch.
In this article, I tried to review the ten best portable winches you can go for in the market. Apart from that, I shared a comprehensive buying guide on a portable winch which should surely help you when you are making the purchase decision. Moreover, I answered some of the most common questions when it comes to portable winches.
I hope the article will immensely help you out to purchase the best portable winch from the market. And finally, don’t hesitate to ask any queries if you have in the comment section. I will be happy to answer them.