Winches have evolved over time, thanks to off-roaders and overlanders looking for places and trails to explore and conquer. This makes it a must have tool for individuals who anticipate having their vehicle stuck while taking part in off-road adventures. As we keep saying, it’s like an insurance policy. It’s good to have it when you need it. In this article, we’re reviewing the higher end of the spectrum, the best 12000 lb winches.
QUICK ANSWER – We’re going to jump the gun here and will tell you right now which brand is the winner.
As you’d expect, the best 12,000 lb winch is Warn’s Zeon 12,000 Winch.
- Advanced Wireless Remote operates winch, reads motor temperature, reads up to two additional accessories and comes with and USB charging cable and car charger adapter
- Designed to keep dust and water out with an IP68 Waterproof Rating
- 2X as durable as previous models
- Delivers 12,000 lb. pull rating or less
- Comes with a 80ft of Spydura Pro Synthetic Rope
Read on to see if it’s worth the higher price!
Things You Should Consider Before Buying Gear From The Best Winch Brands
Once you decided that a 12,000-pound capacity is the range you need, there are still a number of features to consider.
Firstly, you will need to decide which is more important to you, speed or power. If speed is your priority then for starters you need a large winch.
You also need to ensure that your load is smaller when compared to the winches’ overall capacity. This means that it spools faster and puts less stress on the device itself.
There have been cases, where even the best 4×4 winches have buckled due to overload. So your gross vehicle weight is definitely a crucial factor.
If you’re looking to increase your pulling power with the best 12000 lb winch, try a double line technique which will slow down your recovery process a great deal, but will in the same breath double your winch’s pulling power.
Best 12000 pound Winch – Detailed Review
Best Offroad Winch – Warn 12000 lb Winch Review
With steel cable
With synthetic rope
Get ready to handle any challenge with the 12000 lb Warn Winch which comes with either steel cable or synthetic rope.
If you choose the one with the synthetic rope, it will be equipped with one of the best ropes on the market as it features a urethane-coated and heat-treated 12-strand braid, a 20′ Nomex heat protection sleeve, and a ballistic nylon sliding sleeve.
The aluminum drum is light, dissipates heat and reduces the wear of the rope and integrates a rope anchor to make installation easier.
There is no need to introduce Warn, but this specific brand scored the highest in its category for meeting rigorous waterproofing standards.
Excellent control is offered by the automatic mechanical cone brake, which holds the load. The contractor control feature is reliable and great for tackling the elements.
Warn 12000 pound winch features a series-wound motor and new designed planetary gear train for fast, quiet, and dependable pulling power.
The symmetrically designed winch contains a powder-coated finish in the black, clutch lever, and stainless steel fasteners that not only make the device more attractive but prevent corrosion.
Different winch mounting looks and options are available with Warn 12000 winch: the convertible control pack which can be remotely mounted or attached directly to the 12000 warn winch. This is one of the unique features of this device, compared to the 12k winch models.
The low amp draw coupled with fast line speed is designed also to relieve strain on your charging system.
For customers who are interested in a cable version of this winch, the Warn 89120 ZEON 12 000 lb Winch comes with a roller fairlead.
What Previous Buyers Said
The Warn Winch 12000 lb has a reputation that precedes it, and according to many buyers, it lives up to the brand’s commitment to quality and reliability. Although some users insist that set-up instructions could be better, it does have everything you need to mount it to your carrier, including a remote and roller fairlead.
The 12000 pound Warn winch also pulls effortlessly. So although it is priced high, you ultimately get what you pay for.
Pros:
- It’s powerful enough for tough rescues and big vehicles
- Simple and effective cooling system
- The aluminum drum is lightweight and easy to handle
- Waterproof
- The aluminum structure is heat-resistant and durable
- Easy draining and cleaning
- Fast winch
Cons:
- It’s relatively pricey
- Instructions on how to easily assemble it are lacking
Smittybilt Winch 12000 lb Review
With steel cable
With synthetic rope
The next one in our reviews for the best 12,000 lb winches is the Smittybilt winch.
It also comes as either a synthetic rope or a steel cable version. It features a three-stage planetary gear train which has its gear ratio customized in aid of optimizing pulling power and super-fast line speeds.
This reliable and robust winch has a 12-volt electrical motor and 6.6 horsepower which is designed to pull 12,000 pounds. The winch will hold your Jeep thanks to the automatic in-drum braking system and sliding ring gear clutch.
If you always wanted ease of remote control operation, you’ll be pleased to know that it has this feature. It can also be mounted in three different positions making it versatile.
If you would prefer a cable or wire version of this model, you should take a look at the Smittybilt 97412 XRC 12000 lb Winch.
What Previous Buyers Said
According to most previous buyers, this device is of excellent quality at a fair price. It is actually the best 12000-pound winch for the money.
It is also waterproof and does well even when required to perform in steep and rocky inclines. The winch is also one of the best devices for towing four-wheelers out of thick, muddy puddles. It comes with clear directions, is easy to install and has various mounting options for the solenoid which is a great help.
If you’re looking for an affordable winch made by a reputable company, this would be a great option.
Pros:
- It has the highest torque in the industry thanks to its 6.6hp amphibious motor
- It also has excellent pulling power due to the three-stage planetary gear system
- You can enjoy the ease of use and versatility with the remote control
- It’s waterproof
- It’s affordable
Cons:
- Lots of users say the remote control outlet plug pulls away and from the unit and causes it to crack
X-Bull 12 000 Pound Winch Review
Only available with steel cable
Although the X-Bull’s 12000 winch only comes with a steel wire, the brand makes a 13,000-pound winch, so if you definitely want to go with X-Bull in this capacity range, check this one out.
The X-Bull 12,000 lb winch contains one hand controller as well as two wireless remote controllers for convenience and ease of use. The brake and automatic load-holding function provide maximum safety during use.
The power in and power out motor promotes positive load control, while the free spooling clutch encourages quick wire rope payout. The sealed motor is practical and weather-resistant, while the three-stage planetary gear system boosts torque and load.
This winch makes use of a high tensile steel cable instead of 12000 lb synthetic winch rope, so it’s still powerful enough to pull 12,000 pounds of weight effortlessly and without wear and tear. The four-way roller fairlead makes the winch operate smoothly, and the protective cover is weather-resistant and prevents corrosion.
Perhaps the best part is that this winch weighs 88 pounds but still manages to get the work done quietly. The 265:1 gear reduction ratio provides enough power to tackle most recovery challenges, and it’s affordable too.
What Previous Buyers Said
The remote may or may not connect or work effectively. With 85 feet of wire cable, this winch is suitable for various situations. It’s solid, has great torque, and mounts well.
The winch weighs 100 pounds and with such immense power, it can either pull an object of approximately 12,000 lbs to your car or pull your vehicle to the object. It’s actually capable of pulling a modest size tree down. Most customers mentioned that they were surprised at the pulling power of this X-Bull winch considering the price. So for a budget winch, it certainly offers the expected bang for your buck.
Pros:
- The motor is sealed and therefore protected from outside elements
- Positive load control is achieved thanks to the power in and power out motor
- It is a powerful steel cable winch
- Comes with handheld and wireless remotes for ease of use
- It works quietly yet efficiently
Cons:
- It is only available in the steel cable version
- Installation can be tedious
Best Budget Winch – Viper 12000lb Winch Review
With steel cable
With synthetic rope
If you’re after a winch with lots of torque at an affordable price, this could be a perfect fit for you.
This winch pulls objects of the expected 12,000 lbs and has permanent magnetic motors and sealed steel magnetic gears making it ideal for medium-duty tasks. The unit is also completely sealed with a planetary metal gear train.
Made from military-grade materials, you can be assured of the durability and quality of this device. It also contains a wireless remote switch for convenience. Installation is made easy with the integrated solenoid, and there’s no need to look for a spot to mount the contactor.
The permanent magnetic motors place less pressure on your vehicle’s battery and is more suitable for light to medium-duty pulling.
The steel wire version winch has a 3/8″ thick, 85-foot steel cable and a roller fairlead with a solenoid contactor for smooth operation. Included in the package is a wireless remote switch and a cable remote switch. For your safety, it comes with a clevis hook and hand-saver.
What Previous Buyers Said
While most users agree that this winch performs well, there are some limitations such as the remote range which is restricted to approximately 50 feet. The installation instructions are also not clear; however, it does perform as advertised. Most customers seem very happy with the quality, performance and of course the price of this winch.
Pros:
- It is made from durable military-grade material
- Good value for money
Cons:
- The wireless remote range is limited to about 50 feet
- The warranty is also limited
- Medium duty
Review of Offroad Boar 13,000 lb Winch
With steel cable
With synthetic rope
The Offroad Boar 13,000 lb Winch is a state-of-the-art device.
As you’d expect from all winches in this list, its maximum capacity is 13,000 pounds. The winch has also received an IP67 rating for its waterproof capabilities. So this ultimately means that it is resistant to various types of outside elements.
This winch also comes with an automatic braking system that holds the load in the event there is a power outage by making use of friction inside the winch gears. This offers better control over the load and prevents rollback.
However, this feature also adds weight and body size to the device. The three-stage planetary gear system multiplies the power through gear reduction at each of the three stages and this, in turn, delivers the pulling power you need.
This winch has a free spooling clutch that enables fast rope pull out. The 85 feet of synthetic rope is adequate for most recovery processes.
The Offroad Boar winch makes use of a series wound motor that increases its torque and also allows it to operate at a low speed. Therefore, if you need to move heavy loads, slowly or you need to do lighter loads faster, it can be achieved effortlessly.
This winch is available with synthetic rope or steel cable.
What Previous Buyers Said
Previous buyers of the Offroad Boar winch did not have many complaints aside from warning that the winch may not fit on all Jeep bumpers and you may need a modifying grill to install it.
It is easy to install if it does fit onto your bumper without any modifications needed and operation is just as simple.
Pros:
- It is easy to wire up
- The included remotes make operation convenient
- Lightweight winch
- Affordable
Cons:
- The power cable can be short
Rough Country 12000 lb Winch Review
With steel cable
With synthetic rope
The Rough Country 12000 pound winch has proven its capabilities around the world in various situations including muddy, dirty, sandy, wet and difficult terrains and performs as advertised.
It is IP67 dust and waterproof to ensure durability. The winch also features an automatic in-the-drum braking action, four bolt pattern and sliding ring gear clutch.
Massive torque is stored in this compact housing which includes a four-way roller fairlead and 265:1 gear reduction ratio. The powerful 94-foot steel cable is long and robust enough to perform a number of heavy-duty recovery processes. Overheating is also reduced, while high-speed efficiency is increased thanks to the series wound 6hp motor.
The three-stage planetary gear system increases the power and effectiveness of the winch and if you are concerned about getting your winch up and running, rest assured that installation is straightforward and easy even for those with limited mechanical skills.
If you’re looking for a 12000 lb winch with synthetic rope, you can opt for the Rough Country PRO12000S model.
What Previous Buyers Said
Users are generally happy with the Rough Country’s performance.
Perhaps the only complaint was that the control box is cramped when attempting to install the wireless remote. Other than that, previous buyers are impressed with its power and capabilities.
Pros:
- It works well in tough terrains
- It is dust and waterproof
- It contains a series wound motor that reduces overheating and speeds up the device
- Installation is simple, and operation is easy – except for the wireless remote
Cons:
- The control box is cramped
Other winch guides you may be interested in:
Steel vs Cable
You might have a big dilemma in deciding between a steel cable version or a winch that comes with a synthetic rope.
Let’s see how do they compare.
Cable is inexpensive, long lasting and durable. It also reduces heat on the internal brake drum. But a wire cable also tends to be heavy, difficult to handle and holds more kinetic energy than synthetic rope.
It also rusts, develops barbs, kinks and is quite a challenge to fix in the field.
A synthetic rope, on the other hand, is made from altered polypropylene material which is stronger than cable. Although it is similar in size to cable, it is lighter and easier to handle, won’t rust and comes in many colors.
A synthetic rope also floats and can be fixed easily.
A synthetic rope does have its drawbacks, and one such disadvantage is that is doesn’t dissipate heat which can ultimately affect the brake on the winch. It is also subject to abrasion and could freeze and retain water.
A sheath is needed to protect it from debris and sunlight, and it’s also degradable by UV rays, in fact, it can degrade by 150 degrees. Synthetic rope can be cut internally by sand and dirt, so it will require cleaning and maintenance.
Conclusion of the 12000 lb winch reviews
The Warn Winch 12000 is our best pick since it ticks all the right boxes.
Not only is it easy to handle but includes many features that clearly make it a more powerful and competent winch compared to other brands on the market.
It consists of a series wound motor for increased pulling power as well as an automatic mechanical brake to hold loads even in times of power loss.
Winch line speed is increased, and strain on the charging system is relieved thanks to the low amp draw and fast line speed. It is also available with synthetic rope or cable.
- Uniquely balanced 12000 pounds winch with wire rope and roller fairlead
- Design is consistent throughout the entire winch with the same look on the motor as on the gear side
- Convertible control pack can be attached to winch or remotely mounted allowing for various mounting options
- Black powder-coated finish and stainless steel fasteners and clutch inhibit corrosion
- Large aluminum winch drum is lightweight and reduces rope wear
So ultimately if you are looking for the best 12000 lb winch that will help you out of various recovery situations, the 12000 Warn winch is highly recommended.
A worthy alternative would be the Smittybilt 12,000-pound winch which includes most of the Warn 12k winch features, at a slightly cheaper price range and it’s probably the best 12000 pound winch for the money.
CHOOSING A WINCH FOR YOUR VEHICLE IS A COMPLEX TASK
Enter your email below to sign up to our newsletter and to download this FREE 22-PAGES long guide on how to choose a winch.
YOUR PRIVACY IS PROTECTED
