fbpx

Best Winch For Jeep [Review & Guide]

Last updated

One might think that finding the best winch for a Jeep is pretty simple. Unfortunately, it is not. There are a plethora of Jeep winches available in the market.

So, if you are trying to pick the best winch for your Jeep from the best winch brands without any prior experience, it would be a hassle for you to go through all the options out there.

For the best result, you have to spend lots of time researching and learning about all the ins and outs of a winch. And, we know how time-consuming that is.

But, how do we know that?

Simply because we have done it already. Therefore, we will be sharing all the information that we have collected and learned from our research about top winches for Jeeps. 

In this post, you will find reviews of the best Jeep winches and an extensive buying guide with all the essential questions about winches answered. 

What is the best winch for Jeeps?

The WARN 103253 VR EVO 10-S is the best winch for Jeeps.

Having said that, there are lots of options with more pocket-friendly price tags. One of them would be the Smittybilt (98510) X2O, but if you’d like to get a full picture what are the available winches for Jeep Wrangler, please carry on reading our Best Winch for Jeep post below.

Quick Answer – Best Winch For Your Jeep:

How much does it cost to put a winch on a Jeep?

If you want to equip your Jeep with a winch, it will cost you to buy the gear, (not only the winch but also the winch plate that holds the device), plus the cost of installing it.

A quality winch can cost you somewhere between $1,000-$2,000. Mounting gear will set you back around $100-$500, but if you want a professional winch-compatible bumper, then the sky is the limit when it comes to price.

All in all, to put a winch on a Jeep costs somewhere between $1,000-$3,000.

best winches for jeeps – Reviews

Best Jeep Winch For The MoneySmittybilt (98510) X2O Winch Review

wench for jeep

Smittybilt is highly regarded as one of the best brands for supplying off-roading accessories for overlanding rigs. So, the first winch on our list is from Smittybilt. This one comes with a host of features. First off, the weight capacity of this winch is 10,000 lbs. or 4535 kg.

The overall dimension of the machinery is 22.3 x 5.4 x 9.4 inches and the weight is about 99 pounds or 45 kgs. This one has a mounting pattern of 10.0″ x 4.50″. Also, it can be installed in multiple ways. As a result, you will not face any issues installing this winch on your vehicle.

Moreover, it features a 6.6 hp series wound motor. In our list, this is actually the most powerful motor. The winch can be controlled by the remote control device it comes with.

The remote control can be used either wirelessly or wired. It is equipped with a 3-stage planetary gear train that has a ratio of 218:1. The manufacturers recommend a 650 CCA battery for the device.

Regarding the cable, it comes with a 98.5 feet (length), ⅜ inch (diameter) synthetic cable. Also, it uses the ‘Automatic Out-Of-Drum’ brake functionally. So, whenever you are not pulling the rope, it will stop automatically.

image 9197587 13774554

For durability, it is UV-resistant and comes in a textured black finish. Overall, this is a solidly built workhorse when it comes to the best JK winches, like Jeep Rubicon winch and don’t forget about the winch for Jeep Wrangler JL.

What Previous Buyers Said?

Simply put, the majority of the current owners loved this winch. They said there aren’t any other winches that can compete with this one in terms of features, performance, and pricing. All the buyers regarded this as one of the best Jeep winches. This is a good winch for Jeep Gladiator.

Pros:

  • Rugged built quality
  • IP68 Waterproof rating
  • 5-year electrical warranty with a lifetime mechanical warranty

Cons:

  • Spare parts are a bit pricey (if you need any at all, though)

Best Jeep WinchesWARN VR EVO 10-S (103253) Standard Duty Winch Review

warn winch for jeep wrangler

When you are looking for an American-made Jeep winch, Warn is the first name that comes to our mind. These Warn winches for Jeeps are also another well-reputed winches in this off-roading industry.

Here is the Warn VR10000 review. It comes with a 10,000 pounds load capacity. You can choose either a steel rope or a synthetic rope.

Plus, the steel rope one comes with a roller fairlead and the synthetic rope one has a hawse fairlead. However, the price will vary depending on your choice. It also features a series wound motor with the planetary gear train.

So you can expect faster line speed even with a lower amp draw. Thus, it will not heat up fast as well. It comes with a bolt pattern of 10.0″ x 4.5″.

Also, you can relocate the control pack so that it can be installed in multiple ways. You will also receive a 2-in-1 remote for controlling the winch from distance.

This Warn VR EVO winch weighs about 100 lbs. And it comes with a 90 feet cable. If you are a Warn fan, you can definitely check this one out.

Not only is this the best Jeep winch, but it is the best Warn winch for Jeep. This model fits on many different Jeep types: they are good Jeep Wrangler winches and not at last best value winch for Jeep Rubicon.

What Previous Buyers Said?

Like most of the other Warn products, it also made a lot of customers happy. They liked the option that you can choose between a synthetic and a steel rope.

Also, they were amazed by the performance of this winch as well. Some of them are using this one for years without any issues and consider it as one of the best JK winches.

Pros:

  • Wired/wireless remote control
  • IP68 Waterproof rating
  • 7 years electrical warranty with a lifetime mechanical warranty
  • Easy installation
  • Super built quality

Cons:

  • A bit pricey

Best Winch for Jeep Wrangler XBULL 13000 Winch Review

q? encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B078JTYWVJ&Format= SL450 &ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=dobosiconsulting 20&language=en US

If you are on the hunt for a good 4×4 winch, then this might be your calling. The X-Bull winch is known for its affordable price to the Jeep owners all around.

image 9197587 13774554

They offer this winch in 2 colors such as black and orange. On top of these, it comes loaded with features. For instance, Winch for Jeep JK features a 3-stage planetary gear system, sealed contractor, 500 AMP solenoid, and more. The winch has a 26-meter long synthetic cable.

Added to that, it also has power in and out for positive load control. For controlling the winch, you will get a free wireless remote control device. All in all, this one should be on anyone’s top pick if they are looking for a budget-friendly 4WD electrical winch.

What Previous Buyers Said?

As you would expect, the previous customers of this winch are also pleased with their purchase. Interestingly, they applauded the ease of use and the low pricing of this winch. They also boasted about the performance of the X-Bull 4WD winch.

Pros:

  • Reasonably priced
  • IP67 waterproof rating
  • 1-year limited warranty and lifetime technical support

Cons:

  • The synthetic cable might lose color if you don’t use any cover

Best Jeep Cherokee WinchesRough Country PRO Series Electric Winch Review

q? encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B00B8TWM3K&Format= SL450 &ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=dobosiconsulting 20&language=en US

Rough Country might not be the biggest name in the industry. But you can rely on their products, for sure. Particularly, this winch has some great features that it earned a place in our list of the best Jeep winch reviews post.

This electric winch comes with a weight capacity of 9,500 pounds. You will have an 85 feet (⅜” diameter)

However, don’t let that mislead you from the fact that it is one of the most powerful in this category. As you can see this best synthetic rope winch for Jeep is rated with a weight capacity of 13,000 lbs. or 5900 kgs (approx.). If you’re interested a bit more powerful one, check out the Rugcel winch 13500.

synthetic rope with this. It is manufactured with a 5.5 hp series wound motor. Thus, it will give you higher torque capability without overheating frequently. You will also have a wired remote control.

The winch offers an ‘Auto-in-Drum’ brake for better safety, a 3-stage planetary gear train. It also has a gear ratio of 265:1. The package contains a hawse fairlead, clevis hook, remote control, and all the necessary winch accessories for installing it to your overlanding rig effortlessly.

Not only for Jeep Cherokee, but it’s a good winch for Jeep Rubicon and one of the best winch for Jeep TJ as well.

What Previous Buyers Said?

For the price, this is a great product says most of the current owners of this winch. They said it is very easy to install as everything comes along with the winch. And the build quality is also noteworthy. If the weight capacity of this winch is good for you, you can check this one out.

Pros:

  • IP67 waterproof rating
  • 1 year electrical and 2 years mechanical warranty
  • Cheap yet powerful

Cons:

  • No wireless remote

Best Jeep Wrangler JK WinchZESUPER 9500-lb. Electric Winch Kit Review

q? encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B07TNHTHTJ&Format= SL450 &ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=dobosiconsulting 20&language=en US

This is one of the lowest-priced winches on our list. However, you should know that the ZESUPER winch comes with a fixed bolt pattern of 3.13 inches or 79.5 mm. So, make sure if it is suitable for your vehicle prior to buying this.

The dimension of this winch is 20.3 x 6.3 x 7.9 inches. And it weighs about 60 lbs. This electric winch comes with a 3-stage planetary gear train system. At the same time, it houses a 5.5 hp series winding motor. It is loaded with a 24-meter-long synthetic rope and a hawse fairlead.

Moreover, this one can withstand a load of up to 9500 lbs. But the best thing about this winch is that you will get 2 remote controllers. One is wired and another is wireless.

The winch is equipped with a gear ratio of 265:1. So, if you want to get the best JK winch without hurting your wallet, this can be a great choice.

What Previous Buyers Said?

Honestly, buyers of this winch have a mixed view about this. A few of them were not pleased with the instruction manual. Even a couple of users have installed it the wrong way due to that.

But they solved the issue after communicating with the customer support team of ZESUPER. Otherwise, all the users are pretty excited about this Jeep winch.

Pros:

  • Affordable
  • IP67 waterproof rating
  • Lifetime technical support and 1-year limited warranty

Cons:

  • The instruction manual could be a bit better

Best Winch for Jeep JK – Offroad Boar Waterproof Winch Review

winch jeep wrangler

If you are looking for a winch with a steel rope then you should check this one out. This is a very powerful winch. And it is suitable for most of the Jeeps, SUVs, and trailers.

You can rely on the 12,000 weight capacity of the winch. Like all the other premium-quality winches, it also comes with the 3-stage planetary gear train, a 6.0 hp series winding motor, a gear ratio of 265:1, 85 feet steel cable, and more.

The diameter of the drum and the steel rope is 2.5 inches and ⅜ inches respectively.

The dimension of this winch is 20.9″x 6.2″ x 9.4″. It weighs about 83 lbs. or 38 kg. Also, it is suitable for the mounting bolt pattern of 10” x 4.50”.

For controlling the winch from a safe distance, you will get a remote control device with it. Another safety feature of this Jeep winch is the auto-drum-in brake function. 

What Previous Buyers Said?

The current users of this winch have said only good things about it. They said it offers solid performance for a very affordable price. Some of them also used it to pull large trees and logs. And it performed exceptionally well.

Pros:

  • IP67 waterproof rating
  • Ruggedly built and powerful
  • Easy to install and use

Cons:

  • The positive cable of the battery is shorter than the negative one

ZEAK Winch Review – 12000lb. Electric Truck Winch

wrangler winch

We have to admit that Zeak is not a famous or well-known company. Yet, this particular winch from Zeak has caught our attention because of its numerous features. It is an electric winch with a weight capacity of 12,000 lbs. It comes in black color with a powder-coated finish.

Some of the noteworthy features of this winch are a 6.0 hp permanent magnet motor, hawse fairlead, clevis hook, 3-stage planetary gear train, weather-sealed solenoid, circuit breaker, etc.

This one also has a wired remote control and a mounting bolt pattern of 10 x 4.50 inches. The length of the synthetic rope it comes with is about 86 ft. 

What Previous Buyers Said?

It is a great buy to lots of previous buyers. Most of them are saying that even though it is not from a very popular brand, this winch offers great value for money. They also reported that it is one of the best JK winches in terms of performance and best looking winch on Jeep.

Pros:

  • It is waterproof
  • Comes with a circuit breaker for emergency cases
  • 2 years limited warranty

Cons:

  • The motor might overheat

Best Cheap Winch for Jeep – ORCISH (IP67) Steel Cable 12V Electric Jeep/Truck Winch Review

jeep wench

For the people who are looking for a heavy-duty winch, you can check this one out. It comes with a weight capacity of 13,000 lbs. The Orchis winch is well known to a lot of off-roaders because of its price to performance ratio.

For instance, it is packed with features like auto-load-holding-barker, 3-stage planetary gear system, power-in-out motor, 500 amp solenoid, and more. It also comes with 1 wired and 2 wireless remote controls.

The contractor is sealed for keeping it safe. The 85 feet long steel cable is great yet not the best one out there. It’s very easy to install as all the required accessories are already supplied with the package.

What Previous Buyers Said?

A few buyers made complaints about the quality of the supplied steel cable. On the bright side, this cheap Jeep winch is very easily replaceable with a synthetic one. Otherwise, it received lots of praise from all the previous Jeep winch buyers. They liked it, especially because of its price and the high weight capacity.

Pros:

  • Free 1 pair of gloves
  • IP67 Waterproof Rating
  • Reasonable price
  • Comes with 1 year of warranty
  • Additional free remote controller

Cons:

  • The cable quality could be better (it is replaceable, though)

Best Budget Winch For JeepTungsten4x4 T12000S Offroad 6.5Hp 12V Electric Winch Review

jeep jk winch

If you are on the look for a 12,000 lbs. winch, take a look at this winch from Tungsten. This is a 4×4 winch. It comes with a 6.5 hp 12 volt DC series wound motor, 3-stage planetary gear shifting system, hawse fairlead, and more.

You will get one wired and another wireless remote control with this feature. The wired one comes with an ergonomic design. The net dimension of this winch for jeep wrangler jk is 21.4″x 6.3″x 7.4″ and the weight is about 88 lbs.

The gear ratio it comes with is 265:1. It can be installed on most overlanding vehicles as it has a mounting bolt pattern of 10 x 4.5 inches. This can be a top pick if you are in budget constraint yet want a good performing winch for your Jeep.

What Previous Buyers Said?

One particular current owner stated that it pulled out a 15 passenger van without any issues. And, he is overjoyed with the performance of this winch on Jeep Wrangler.

Other customers were also equally happy about their purchase. Another customer even said that it is the best value for money winch you can get right now for a best Jeep with winch.

Pros:

  • 3 years limited warranty
  • IP67 waterproof rating
  • Heavy-duty winch
  • Cheap yet powerful

Cons:

  • Takes a bit of time to shut down completely

image 9197587 13774554

Best Winch for Jeep GladiatorSuperwinch Tiger Shark 12V Winch (1511201) Review

jeep jk winches

Another well-known brand for supplying high-grade winches is Superwinch. And, from them comes this ‘TS11500 SR’ winch. It is rated with an 11,500 lbs. weight capacity. Added to that, it has a 6.0 hp motor which is sealed in a waterproof control box.

You will also have a handheld wired remote for controlling the winch from a safer distance. The winch also features a synthetic rope of 24.4 meters and an aluminum hawse fairlead.

It has a 3-stage planetary gear system with a gear ratio of 218:1. This 63 lbs. winch is equipped with the ‘auto-load-holding’ brake system. 

What Previous Buyers Said?

Most of the previous buyers were impressed by the performance of the winch. However, some also shared their thoughts against the high price tag and the frail solenoid cover.

Or else, there were no negatives about the winch. Even a lot of users reported that they have been using a winch on a jeep (this one) for over a year without any complications.

Pros:

  • Durable and robust Build Quality
  • Comes with a ‘lift & pull’ spool lever
  • Weatherproof motor casing

Cons:

  • Pricey
  • The solenoid cover is made of plastic and prone to crack

Review of VIPER Winch 12000lb

jeep wrangler winch

And, the last on our list today is the Viper Winch. This is also another budget-friendly winch for Jeeps, SUVs, or any overland rigs. It is another 12,000 lb winch.

The winch is made with military-grade materials for long-lasting service. You will have both a wired and wireless remote control with this one.  As it comes with an 85 feet synthetic rope, it is equipped with an aluminum hawse fairlead.

The rope has a diameter of 5/16”. Additionally, it also offers features like a weather-sealed solenoid, 3-stage planetary gear with a gear ratio of 265:1, an auto-in-drum brake system, and more.

The net dimension of this winch is 21.3″ x 6.3″ x 10.5″. It houses a permanent magnet motor and is compatible with the mounting bolt pattern of 10” x 4.50”.

What Previous Buyers Said?

One buyer said the wireless remote has a shorter range than he expected. But, it didn’t bother him as it was working.

And, another buyer mentioned that they moved about 30 old cars from an abandoned field within a week with this winch. And, they did it without facing any issues at all. So, he recommends this to other buyers as one of the best Jeep winches.

Pros:

  • IP67 waterproof rated
  • Comes with a lifetime limited warranty
  • Solid performance and top-notch build quality

Cons:

  • The instruction manual could be a bit better

image 9197587 13774554

Buying Guide – Best Winch For Jeep

Winch Capacity VS Vehicle Weight – What size winch for jeep is good?

So, how do you know if any particular winch will be suitable for your vehicle? Generally, the rule of thumb is to multiply the overall weight of your vehicle by 1.5.

For instance, if your rig is 5000 lbs. Then you should get a winch with a weight capacity of — 5000 (Weight of the Vehicle) x 1.5 = 7500 lbs.

So, for the best result, you should get a winch with a weight capacity of at least 7500 lbs. (for a 5000 lbs. Jeep) in this case.

Types of Winches

Primarily there are 2 types of winches available. Let’s elaborate…

Electric Winches

Typically, this type of winches will get the power from your vehicle’s battery. So, it can work even though your vehicle is not running. Also, electric winches are prone to overheating if you use them without a break after a few minutes.

Additionally, they will discharge your vehicle’s battery in the process. Still, electric winches are the most popular option for off-roaders and campers all around the world.

Hydraulic Winches

Oppositely, hydraulic winches can be used as long as you want. This type of winches is more powerful compared to the electric ones. However, they are also pricier than electric winches. So, for personal use, it is always better to use an electric winch.


Best Books On Overlanding

q? encoding=UTF8&ASIN=1905864876&Format= SL250 &ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=books overlandsite 20&language=en USir?t=books overlandsite 20&language=en US&l=li2&o=1&a=1905864876
q? encoding=UTF8&ASIN=1909930369&Format= SL250 &ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=books overlandsite 20&language=en USir?t=books overlandsite 20&language=en US&l=li3&o=1&a=1909930369
q? encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0639925707&Format= SL250 &ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=books overlandsite 20&language=en USir?t=books overlandsite 20&language=en US&l=li3&o=1&a=0639925707

Key Features of a Jeep Winch

Mounting System

Most of the winches are installed in the front bumper of the vehicle permanently. So, you can use the winch anytime you want and don’t need to worry about carrying it with you separately.

However, there are a few different models available that can be mounted/unmounted easily. But most of the powerful and the popular winches come with the permanent installation procedure, which is cumbersome to uninstall. So sometimes installing a winch on a Jeep is not that hard.

Rated Line Pull/Pulling Power

You will notice that every winch comes with a ‘weight capacity’. This term is also known as RLP/Rated Line Pull/Pulling Power.

This is one of the most crucial factors to consider before buying a winch. So, let’s say your vehicle is 7,000 lbs. Then you should always opt for a winch that comes with an RLP/Pulling Power higher than this. 

Rope Length

Typically, winches come with various lengths of ropes ranging from 50 to 100 feet. Technically, it is better to get a long cable. Still, it also depends on your personal preference.

However, most of the great winches will come with replaceable ropes. So, if you need to increase or decrease the length of the rope, you can replace or use a cord extender.

Motor Type

Generally, winches come with 2 types of motors such as series winding and permanent magnet motor. The permanent magnet motors are powerful but tend to overheat easily.

On the opposite, the series winding motors are known for generating high torque without getting hot fast. So, it is better to pick the winches with a series winding motor. 

jeep wrangler with winch

Synthetic Rope VS Steel Rope Winches

Every winch would be equipped with a cable with which you will do the pulling. You will find 2 types of ropes such as steel and synthetic ropes.

Now, synthetic rope winches are the new breed whereas steel rope winches have been around for a long time. The steel rope is the most durable and rugged of these two. But it has drawbacks as well.

For example, if you don’t use gloves the abrasive texture might be injurious for your hands. Also, these are so strong that it is not that smooth to spool up like the synthetic ones.

Conversely, the synthetic rope winches are easy to use, lightweight yet durable, and not injurious to the hands. Thus, you should always choose a synthetic winch for the best result.

Summary – Best Winch For Jeep

Admittedly, we might have not answered all your questions in this Jeep winch comparison. Yet, we have tried to share most of the important information about Jeep winches.

If you ask us, our top rated winches are either the Smittybilt or the Warn winch from the list above. You’ll have the best Jeep with winch. And, there’s no real surprise there. Because both of these are industry-leading brands and these winches also come with all the must-have features and functions.

So, if you want a winch within a limited budget, then opt for the Smittybilt (98510) X2O Waterproof Synthetic Rope Winch.

In contrast, go for the WARN 103253 VR EVO 10-S Standard Duty Winch if the high price tag is not the issue.

So, do you have any personal favorites here? You can share it with us in the comments section down below! Whether you’re looking for the best winches for Jeep Wranglers (Jeep JL or Jeep JK), either of the above two should fit if you’re buying the right mounting kit with it.

What winch do I need
arrow for opt in

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

Photo of author
AUTHOR
Ferenc
Ferenc Elekes has been a devout Overlanding enthusiast for many years. During that time, Ferenc has explored 75 countries on six continents, with overland travel involved in 40 countries on three continents. From his trusty 2006 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado with a roof-top tent, he’s blogged about experiences that can only be found in the remotest regions on Earth. Along the way, he's gained in-depth knowledge of the novel challenges overlanders encounter and practical ways to meet them. On his website, he shares informed opinions about everything from the best overland gear to how to get a vehicle unstuck. Ferenc has also written for Ih8mud, the Expedition Portal, the Overland Journal, and he is often invited as a guest to outdoors-related podcasts.
Which Overlanding Vehicle Best Fits You?!

Take the quiz to find out which overlanding vehicle best fits you and your travel style.

Overlandsite - take the quiz

Leave a Comment