There are whole bunches of truck winch available in the market with varieties of functionalities, built materials, and price tag. And you might be confused about which one would be the best choice for you.
Keep your worry side apart and go through this article as today I will share with you the best truck winch your money can buy.
Apart from that, I will take you through a complete buying guide on purchasing a truck winch. I will also answer some of the most common questions a buyer may have about the truck winch.
So let’s get into the business without any further talk.
WARN 92815 Zeon Platinum 10-S
Top Features
- Great build quality.
- IP68 waterproof.
- 80 feet Synthetic Rope.
Smittybilt GEN 2 XRC Winch
Top Features
- 17500 lbs. pull capacity.
- 94 feet steel cable.
- 5 years warranty.
Smittybilt X2O COMP – Waterproof Synthetic Rope Winch
Top Features
- 6.6HP series wound motor.
- IP68 waterproof.
- 3-stage planetary gear.
Table of Contents
The 10 Best Truck Winches
1. Smittybilt Gen 2 XRC Winch
Smittybilt Gen 2 XRC Winch is one of the best truck winch at a reasonable price yet great build quality in our list. This winch is used by many users and has great positive feedbacks.
The winch comes with four-way roller fairlead, hammer-forged hook, and wire rope. It has a large clutch level for easy use with gloves.
One great thing about this product is that it has an IP67 waterproof rating. So you don’t need to be worried when you are using the winch in the rainy season.
The winch can pull out up to 17,500 lbs. But I would recommend not pulling anything more than 15,000 lbs. for better performance and longer life span.
The winch is packed with all wiring kits required for installation. The manufacturer recommends using supplied wiring for the winch.
The manufacturer provides 5 years or 100000-mile warranty for the users. So you won’t need to worry about any unusual damage to the winch in this period.
It includes a remote control with the package which can be used from up to 12 feet distance.
This particular winch has other models too with different load capacity. They are 9500, 12000, and 15500 lbs. The quality is the same as this one except for the difference in load capacity.
Technical features
- 17,500 lbs. load capacity.
- IP 67 waterproof rating.
- Remote control for up to 12 feet.
- Fairlead four-way roller system.
- Uses rope wire for pulling up things.
Specifications
- Brand : Smittybilt.
- Dimension : 24.4 x 8.4 x 10.7 inches.
- Weight : 132.2 pounds.
Why Will You Like This Product?
This winch from Smittybilt is extremely well built and reasonably priced. For these two reasons, I will easily recommend this winch to the users.
PROS
- IP 67 water rating.
- Hook quality is quite sturdy.
- Reasonable price.
- The Gen2 series XRC engine provides great performance.
- Long 94 feet stainless steel cable.
- Easy installation and operation.
CONS
- Lack of wireless remote.
2. WARN 95960 ZEON 12-S Platinum 12V Electric Winch
The WARN 95960 is pretty sturdy winches from the renowned brand WARN. It can pull out things weighs in up to 12000 lbs. Though, it is recommended not to pull out anything more than 10000 lbs. for the longer life span of the winch.
It has an advanced wireless remote control for ease of use. The remote can read the motor temperature, reads two more additional accessories, and comes with a handy USB charging cable and car charger adapter.
The winch has IP 68 waterproofing to keep the winch safe from dust and water. So you won’t need to worry about wet weather while using the winch.
This winch comes with long 80 feet Spy Dura-Pro Synthetic Rope which is very sturdy. You can easily pull your truck from the toughest places using this rope. And this type of strong rope will last for a very long time.
Technical features
- 12000 lbs. pulling capacity.
- 80 feet of Spy Dura-Pro Synthetic Rope.
- A wireless remote control system.
- Comes with USB charging cable.
- IP 68 waterproof rating.
Specifications
- Brand : WARN.
- Dimension : 20 x 26.13 x 8.25 inches.
- Weight : 83 pounds.
Why Will You Like This Product?
The main reason one should go for this winch from WARN is its extremely well build quality. Though the price is a bit high but still going for it is worth its premium build quality.
PROS
- Sturdy build materials.
- Powerful engine.
- IP 68 water-resistant.
- Easy operation with wireless remote.
- Easy installation.
CONS
- Price is a bit on the higher side.
3. X-BULL 12V Synthetic Rope Winch
The X-BULL 12V Synthetic Rope Winch comes with IP 67 waterproof rating to save it from wet and rusty weather. It can survive a state-of-the-art 500AMP solenoid valve.
The winch can pull out things weigh up to 13000 lbs. It is an ideal choice for two-door jeeps and light SUVs. And the winch can survive all the harsh environments.
It has the latest generation wireless remote like many other winches from X-BULL. So operating the winch is very convenient for its users.
One great thing about this winch is it comes with lifetime technical support and a one-year limited warranty. If you face any problems after the purchase, don’t hesitate to call them as they are very professional and helpful when it comes to solving user’s complaints.
It has high duty sealed contactor, with positive input and output load power. The winch has a powerful motor and planetary three-stage gear system that has higher linear speed and lower under-load ampere traction.
The best thing about this winch is its price tag. If your budget is under 500 bucks then you can go for this winch without any hesitation.
Technical features
- 13000 lbs. pulling capacity.
- IP 67 waterproof rating.
- 80 feet long synthetic rope.
- A wireless remote control system.
- 3 stage planetary gear system.
- The automatic load-holding system.
- Heavy-duty sealed contractor.
Specifications
- Brand : X-BULL.
- Dimension : 23.62 x 13.39 x 9.84 inches.
- Weight : 58 pounds.
Why Will You Like This Product?
The main reason one should go is its price tag. If your pocket is on the lower side then you should go for it as you are getting a decent quality winch under 500 bucks.
PROS
- IP 67 WATER RATING.
- Easy to use.
- A wireless remote control system.
- Comes with a winch cover.
- 85 feet synthetic rope is light yet very sturdy.
CONS
- Lack of overload protection.
4. ZESUPER 12V 13000-lb Load Capacity Electric Truck Winch
ZESUPER 12V 13000-lb winch can pull up to 13000 lbs. weight trucks, jeeps, and SUVs. Like other 13000 lbs. capacity winch, it is recommended for this winch too not to pull anything more than 10000 lbs.
The tool is IP 67 rating water and dustproof. It is specially designed for pulling cars, boat, truck, jeep, modified vehicles, and multi-purpose utility trailers.
It has sealed heavy-duty contactor, state-of-the-art 500 amp relay. The winch can pull 5.8 feet per minute when fully loaded and 22 feet per minute when empty.
The winch comes with a three-stage planetary gear system and 6.4 HP 12v series winding motor. It has got a free winding clutch and a 10mm*24m synthetic rope.
The manufacturer provides lifetime technical support and a one-year limited warranty for this winch model. You can contact them without any doubt if you face any problem within this time. They will provide a professional and timely solution.
It is recommended to use oil on the winch screw after every time you use it for better protection of the winch.
Technical features
- 13000 lbs. pulling capacity.
- IP 67 water and dustproof.
- A three-stage planetary gear system.
- 6.4 HP 12v series winding motor.
- 78 feet long synthetic rope.
Specifications
- Brand : ZESUPER.
- Dimension : 23.6″ (L) x 13.4″ (W) x 10.2″ (H).
- Weight : 60.6 lbs.
Why Will You Like This Product?
The main point behind purchasing this winch model is its reasonable price tag with the decent build quality.
PROS
- IP 67 water rating.
- Reasonable price.
- Comes with weather-sealed control box.
- Comes with both wired and wireless remote control.
- Features auto load-holding brake for safety purpose.
CONS
- Spooling clutch lever has a lagging problem.
- The installation process is a bit difficult.
5. X-BULL 12V Steel Cable Electric Winch
The X-BULL 12V Steel Cable Electric Winch from X-BULL comes with 12000 lbs. pulling capacity. But you shouldn’t pull anything more than 10000 lbs. for its better performance for a long period.
This model supports both wired and wireless remote for the ease of the users. The seller packs a free wireless remote with the model.
It has a 26-meter long steel cable. And you already know how sturdy steel cable is. You can easily pull heavy things with this strong cable.
The model supports Power in & Power out Motor for positive load control of the winch. It has a free spooling clutch for fast wire rope payout.
It has a three-stage planetary gear system for better performance. The model comes with automatic load-holding for the safety of the users.
It has got a free spooling clutch for fast wire rope out. It has also got a heavy-duty sealed contractor. Though this model doesn’t have any IP rating but still it can be operated in wet weather without any hassle.
Technical features
- Power in and out the motor for positive load control.
- Free spooling clutch.
- 1 pcs wireless remote added in the box.
- A three-stage planetary gear system.
- Automatic load holding for better control.
Specifications
- Brand : X-BULL.
- Dimension : 23.6 x 9.45 x 13.78 inches.
- Weight : 79.8 pounds.
Why Will You Like This Product?
The product is easy to install and very low noise while operating. And these two facilities make it a good buy for the users.
PROS
- Braker for maximum safety.
- High-quality steel cable.
- Quiet while operating.
- Corrosion-resistant.
- Comes with both wired and wireless remote.
CONS
- A synthetic cable would be a better option.
6. ORCISH IP67 Waterproof 12V Steel Cable Electric Truck Winch
If you want to purchase a winch with a good balance in price and quality then this winch will suit you perfectly.
The winch has 13000 lbs. pulling ability. The great thing about this winch is that you won’t need to limit the pulling less than 13000 lbs. as it is strong enough to pull things weighs in 13000 lbs. continuously.
The winch comes with IP 67 waterproof rating to save it from wet weather. It has a heavy-duty sealed contractor for better performance.
The model comes with long 26 meters steel cables. The package includes one pair of handy gloves too.
The winch has power in and power out system for positive load control and better control of the winch while operating.
You can run this winch with wireless remote. The package includes two wireless remotes, so you don’t need to cost extra bucks for buying remote. This winch supports hand remote controller too for the ease of the users.
You get a control box and clevis hook with the package which is quite handy to have packed with a winch.
Technical features
- Automatic load holding.
- Braker for maximum safety.
- High tensile synthetic rope.
- Heavy-duty sealed contractor.
- A three-stage planetary gear system.
Specifications
- Brand : ORCISH.
- Dimension : 23 x 13 x 10 inches.
- Weight : 84.8 pounds.
Why Will You Like This Product?
The winch has a good balance between price and quality. This makes the winch recommendable for any user looking to buy a decent quality winch.
PROS
- Two wireless remotes come with the box.
- Free spooling clutch.
- Easy to install.
- Includes a handy pair an of gloves.
- IP 67 waterproof rating.
CONS
- Low battery life of the remote.
- The quality of stock steel isn’t that much great.
7. Smittybilt X2O Comp – Waterproof Synthetic Rope Winch
This Smittybilt X2O is another great winch from the renowned company Smittybilt. The winch can pull things up to 10000 lbs. But it is recommended not to pull anything more than 8000 lbs. for its better performance for a longer period.
The package comes with Smittybilt X20 comp synthetic rope winch, hawse fairlead with a forged hook, and all required power cables to hook up to your vehicle.
The model comes with a wireless remote. So operating it is very easy for the users. Apart from the remote control, you can manually operate it too.
This winch comes with a powerful 6.6 HP Amphibious motor for ease of operation. It has a three-stage planetary gear system and stainless steel hardware for a longer life span.
The model has a dynamic braking system for better control. It has two Solenoid Mounting options too.
One great thing about this winch is that it comes with a lifetime mechanical warranty and 5 years of electrical warranty. So you can be free of worry about the winch in this time period.
Technical features
- IP 68 water rating.
- Max 10000 lbs pulling capacity.
- 6.6 HP series wound motor.
- Three-stage planetary gear.
- Brake: Automatic Out-Of-Drum.
- Battery Leads: 25mm 2, 72″(1.83).
Specifications
- Brand : Smittybilt.
- Dimension : 22.3″ (L) x 5.4″ (W) x 9.4″ (H).
- Weight : 99.0 lbs (45.0Kgs).
Why Will You Like This Product?
One should go for this without any hesitation for its reasonable price, great build materials, and brand value.
PROS
- Reasonable price.
- IP 68 waterproof rating.
- Powerful engine.
- Sturdy build quality.
- Remote control operation.
CONS
- Honestly speaking, there are no significant cons to mention.
8. Superwinch 1595201 Tiger Shark 12V Winch
Superwinch 1595201 can pull out things up to 9500 lb. It has a 5.2 HP motor which reduces damages from rain, snow, and blowing dust which is nice to have in a winch. This HP 5.2 motor is weather sealed.
The winch uses cost-saving and power increasing technology and every buyer would like to have these facilities in their winch.
The winch has a thicker drum which increases strength when pulling out any trucks, car, or jeep. It has got a three-phase gearbox that treats tension effectively and easily gets the job done.
As for durability, this model’s heavy-duty textured finish makes it resistant to off-road abuse. The overall look is very pleasing to the eye with its stainless steel hardware that will suit any truck.
This model comes with a remote control system. The rubber handle of the remote helps you to use the remote conveniently and the quality of the remote is very sturdy.
This winch comes with a fairlead made of aluminum hawse. It features a 95-inch long synthetic rope cable.
Technical features
- Weather sealed 5.2 HP motor.
- Ergonomically shaped free-spool control.
- Synthetic Rope.
- Aluminum hawse fairlead.
- 12 feet rubber handheld remote.
- aluminum hawse fairlead.
Specifications
- Brand : Superwinch.
- Dimension : 20.83 x 6.3 x 9.23 inches.
- Weight : 61 pounds.
Why Will You Like This Product?
I think the quality of this winch perfectly suits the price. If you want a winch with good quality to price ratio then go for this winch.
PROS
- Easy to install and operate.
- The outer body is highly durable for aluminum build.
- Rustproof.
- Performance is great considering the price.
- 12 feet wired remote control.
CONS
- No wireless remote.
- The motor sound is a bit loud.
9. Rough Country 9,500 LB PRO Series Electric Winch
The rough country produces a wide variety of winches. And Rough Country 9,500 LB PRO is one of them. It can pull out things weighs in up to 9500 lb.
The winch uses a 5.5 HP powerful motor. It has three stages planetary with sliding ring gear clutch and auto in drum braking.
The package comes with wired remote control, clevis hook, 4 Way Roller Fairlead, and 5/16 in x 100 feet steel cable.
The winch has IP 67 water and dustproof certification. So the winch will still work great in heavy damp conditions.
The manufacturer provides a year’s electrical warranty and two years of mechanical warranty for the winch. So you can remain worry-free at this time about any sort of damages to the winch.
The model has a Series Wound motor which is extremely efficient at higher speed and less prone to overheating compared to permanent magnet motors.
It is designed to withstand the dust, mud, and dirt in rugged conditions. Every function in this winch is asserting worthy of money.
Technical features
- 9500 lb. pulling capacity.
- IP 67 water and dustproof.
- Comes with wired remote control.
- 5.5 HP powerful motor.
- Gear Ratio 265:1.
Specifications
- Brand : Rough Country.
- Dimension : 23.25 x 13.5 x 12.5 inches.
- Weight : 82.8 pounds.
Why Will You Like This Product?
This winch Rough Country winch uses extremely good quality materials yet comes at a very low price. And that’s why this winch is very easy to recommend.
PROS
- Easy to install and use.
- 94 feet long steel cable.
- Low price tag.
- Solid build quality.
- IP 67 water and dust resistant certified.
CONS
- Doesn’t have wireless remote control facility.
10.WARN 96800 VR8 12V Electric Winch
This WARN 96800 model has the lowest pulling capacity on our list. It can pull things up to 8000 lbs. Though I would recommend not pulling anything over 6500 lbs. for its longer life span.
This model has smooth, durable, and reliable three stages planetary gear train for better operation. It has a Series-wound motor for plenty of power and fast line speed.
Its low profile design will perfectly match small to medium size trucks, jeep, and SUVs. But big size vehicles can’t be pulled out buy this winch for its low pulling capacity.
The model features exclusive brake design for superior winching control. The new reversible control kit has a tactical feel and allows setups for upright or low profile mounting. The most effective winch control possible is provided by a waterproof contractor Albright.
For improved power, the one-piece tie plate substitutes several tie bars, and a best-in-class cone brake carries out full load. It also features the VR8 which offers the fastest no-load line speed in the VR series.
Technical features
- Three-stage planetary gear train.
- Series wound motor for better performance.
- Low profile design.
- Exclusive brake design for superior winch control.
- New reversible control kit for good tactical feel.
Specifications
- Brand : WARN.
- Dimension : 25 x 14 x 9 inches.
- Weight : 65.2 pounds.
Why Will You Like This Product?
Those who don’t need to pull things of heavyweight and want a sturdy winch from a renowned brand, this winch will perfectly suit their needs and desire.
PROS
- Easy installation and operation.
- Free spooling.
- Has got re locatable control pack.
- Lightweight.
- VR8 for fastest no-load line speed.
CONS
- Higher price tag considering the pulling power.
A Comprehensive Buying Guide On Purchasing The Best Truck Winch
Nobody likes it to regret after making any purchase decision. And purchasing a truck winch is no different.
You already know that there are a lot of truck winches available from varieties of companies. And surely every winch has its different characteristics and benefits. And choosing the right one is that will suit your need and desire is a big thing.
If you can analyze some basic yet crucial points before buying any truck winch then surely you won’t regret after making the winch purchase decision. For example, you can check how much pulling quality you need, pulling capacity of the winch, rope types, price tag, durability, etc.
I think giving you a comprehensive idea about the points you needed to consider most before purchasing a winch will help you most.
With that said, let’s take a closer look at those points without any further talk.
Pulling Capacity
The pulling capacity of the truck winch is one of the most crucial factors when you are purchasing any truck winch. First of all, you need to decide what types of trucks you will pull out with the winch, is it big size or small size?
Now calculate the weight off the truck. Finally buy a truck winch with a little bit more pulling capacity than your available present truck. It will make the winch work better and last longer.
Cable Length
The length of the cable is another important fact when purchasing any truck winch. If you need to pull out things from long distance then look for a cable with a long rope and strong build quality.
But if you don’t need to pull things from long distances then purchase one according to your requirements. It is wise to buy one 10-15 feet longer than your present demand. Usually, 35 feet long will work for the users in most of the cases.
Warranty Facility
Nobody likes it to see any problems after purchasing a new product. And you won’t like it to happen to your truck winch too.
A warranty assures the users that they will be able to use the winch for a certain period of time without any worry. In this time period whatever happens to the tool, the seller will take responsibility. So make sure that you buy one which has a decent warranty period.
Choosing The Right Cable
When it comes to the cable of a truck winch there are two types of cable widely available in the market. One is synthetic rope and another is wire cable.
Wire cable is made of carbon steel and is widely popular for its abrasion and heat resistance. The price is low and needs minimum maintenance. On the other hand, synthetic rope is lightweight, flexible, easy, and safe to use. But in case of durability, the wire cable lasts much longer.
Now that you know the difference, choose the one which matches your demand and desire most.
Water And Dust Proof Rating
Commonly, your truck winch will come in touch with water when you are using it outside the home in the rainy season. And if the tool is not water and dust resistant then the winch will damage easily and become a burden for you. So look for whether the winch is water-resistant certified or not before buying it.
Installation And Operation
Imagine the scenario that you have fallen in a difficult situation with your truck and need to pull it out. But when you proceed to install the winch and operate it, you find it very difficult to install and operate the tool. Surely you won’t love to see yourself in this type of situation. So choose the winch which is easy to install and operate.
Choosing Between Electric Winch And Hydraulic Winch
Before deciding which type will be best for you, you need to know the difference between these two types.
An electric winch is the most popular type between these two. The engine it uses is suitable for low to medium level pulling. These winches are easy to install and carry to distant places. Operating it is also easy. It has a negative side too. If you use it for a long period continuously then there is a possibility of overheat and blowing up the battery.
On the other hand, hydraulic winch has a heavy pulling ability. You don’t need to worry about overheating issues when you are using it for a long period. If you need to pull out heavy vehicles then this type of winch will suit you most. Again this type of winch has a downside too; they are expensive and quite difficult to install.
Now that you know the difference between electric and hydraulic winch, it’s your turn to choose the winch that will suit you best.
Winch Motor
An electric winch comes with either permanent motors or series wound motors. Both have their own characteristics and benefits.
Permanent magnet motors are less expensive and suitable for low to medium level work. These motors get hot after using a certain period. In extremely cold weather they may don’t work fine.
On the other hand, series-wound motors are both expensive powerful. These motors produce magnetic fields using field coils. They work great both hot and cold weather for a long period of time.
Control System
When it comes to controlling the winch, there are two types of systems available; manual control and remote control. Manual control isn’t convenient and user friendly for the users. On the other hand, a remote control system is much more convenient and user friendly.
Remote control system comes with two options; cordless and cord remote control. With the cordless remote control, you can operate the winch from a certain period of distance with it. One should choose cordless remote control over cord remote as it provides much convenience to the user over cord remote.
FAQs
What is a truck winch and for what purpose it is used?
A truck winch is a tool that pulls out trucks from difficult places like holes, shafts, canals, muds, etc. You have to use a hook to the truck and then pull it out using the winch from critical places.
What size winch do I need for my truck?
You should first determine the weight of your truck. Now buy a winch that can pull out things 2500-3000lbs more than your present truck weight.
What is the most durable best winch for a truck?
There are whole bunches of manufacturers that produce great quality winch. But to me Warn, Superwinch and Smittybilt are the top three manufacturers that produce top-notch truck winches.
Should I spend a lot of bucks on my truck winch?
No, you shouldn’t. You just purchase a winch that exactly matches your demand. Don’t buy one that can pull much heavier things than your present truck. That way you will save yourself from spending extra penny behind winch.
How do I install my truck winch?
Every truck winch you buy comes with the manufacturer’s guide. Install the winch following the guide. But still, if you face any problems, there is always the option of contacting a professional.
Should I put a winch on my truck?
Of course, you should, especially if you regularly move on the roads where there is a hole, terrain, and muds. Yes, you won’t fall in difficult situations regularly, but somehow if your truck falls in holes, canals, or terrain then this truck winch will help you overcome the bad situation.
How you operate the truck winch?
A truck winch comes with both option of using a truck winch; manually and remote control. The remote control system is preferred by most of the users as it is convenient and easy to use for the users.
Final Verdict…
A truck winch is a very important tool for those who move through critical roads regularly. And making the right purchase decision sometimes gets quite difficult for the users.
In this long article, I reviewed the best truck winch you can go for. Other than that, I shared a comprehensive buying guide to aid you in making the right purchase decision. Moreover, I tried to answer some common questions about the truck winch.
Though I tried to cover all the necessary information you need to know when it comes to purchasing a truck winch, still I may miss some. Please let me know those points and also feel free to ask any queries if you have in the comment section. I will be happy to answer those questions.