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10 Best Atv Winches 2025 in the United States

OPENROAD 4500 lb ATV/UTV Winch,Waterproof IP67 Electric Winch with 1/4"×50' Synthetic Rope,Wireless Remote and Winch Stopper

Load Capacity: 4500 lb
Motor Type: 1.3kW permanent magnet DC motor
Cable Type: synthetic rope
Line Speed: 25 ft/min no load, 9 ft/min load
Control Options: wireless and wired remote
Mounting System: standardized mounting patterns
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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

X-BULL Winch-13500 lb. Load Capacity Electric Winch Kit 12V Synthetic Rope,Waterproof IP67 Electric Winch with Hawse Fairlead, with Wireless Handheld Remote and Corded Control Recovery

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,375
Load Capacity
Cable Type
Line Speed

Most important from
757 reviews

Load Capacity
Delivers strong, dependable pulling power that handles heavy recoveries without overheating or strain.
Cable Type
Synthetic rope is lightweight, safe, and durable, performing well even under tough conditions with minimal maintenance.
Line Speed
The winch operates at a slower speed due to gear reduction but maintains steady, reliable traction under load.
Control Options
The wireless remote connects quickly and works flawlessly up to the maximum cable length, offering great operational freedom.
Mounting System
Installation fits well with standard bumpers and can be completed efficiently with some basic wiring knowledge.

The X-BULL 13500 lb electric winch is designed to handle heavy-duty recovery tasks, making it suitable for ATV and off-road enthusiasts who need strong pulling power. Its 13500-pound load capacity is quite high, so it can manage tough situations easily. The winch uses a powerful 12V, 6.0 HP series wound motor combined with a 3-stage planetary gear system, which helps provide both strong traction and reasonably good cable pulling speed. The synthetic rope is 3/8 inches thick and 82 feet long, which is lighter and safer compared to traditional steel cables, and the hawse fairlead helps guide the rope smoothly.

One of the stand-out features is the dual control options: a new-generation wireless remote that works up to 35 meters away and a wired handheld control, both protected by an IP67 waterproof rating. This means you can operate it reliably in harsh weather or rugged terrain. The mounting system uses a standard bolt pattern, making it relatively easy to install on most ATV setups. The winch has a solid safety design with positive load control and a strengthened clutch system to reduce damage risks.

With good customer ratings, this winch provides a strong, reliable option for serious users needing heavy load recovery with convenient remote operation. However, its size and weight (about 54 pounds) might be a bit heavy for smaller ATVs or those looking for a more compact setup.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,375
Load Capacity
Cable Type
Line Speed

Most important from
757 reviews

Load Capacity
Delivers strong, dependable pulling power that handles heavy recoveries without overheating or strain.
Cable Type
Synthetic rope is lightweight, safe, and durable, performing well even under tough conditions with minimal maintenance.
Line Speed
The winch operates at a slower speed due to gear reduction but maintains steady, reliable traction under load.
Control Options
The wireless remote connects quickly and works flawlessly up to the maximum cable length, offering great operational freedom.
Mounting System
Installation fits well with standard bumpers and can be completed efficiently with some basic wiring knowledge.
#2

WARN 101020 VRX 25-S Powersports Winch with Handlebar Mounted Switch and Synthetic Rope: 3/16" Diameter x 50' Length, 1.25 Ton (2,500 lb) Capacity

Rating
9.1
Load Capacity
Cable Type

Most important from
134 reviews

Load Capacity
Its construction and performance inspire confidence, making it a dependable choice for smaller ATVs.
Cable Type
The wiring setup could be improved, as the provided cables are slightly short, requiring some users to splice extensions for easier installation.

The WARN 101020 VRX 25-S Powersports Winch is designed for smaller ATVs, offering a 2,500 lb load capacity suitable for light recovery tasks without overwhelming power. It uses a synthetic rope measuring 3/16" in diameter and 50 feet long, which is lighter and safer to handle than steel cables. The winch features a durable all-metal construction with a corrosion-resistant black powder-coated finish, making it well-suited for outdoor use.

Its three-stage planetary gear train provides smooth and reliable operation, while the load-holding mechanical brake offers good control when holding weight or during slow pulls. Control is convenient with the handlebar-mounted rocker switch, allowing easy access without complicated setups. The winch is also IP68-rated for waterproof protection, enabling it to handle harsh weather or wet conditions without issue.

This winch is a solid choice if you need a lightweight, reliable, and weatherproof winch for smaller ATVs, but it may fall short for heavier-duty applications or for users who prefer advanced control options such as remote wireless control.

Rating
9.1
Load Capacity
Cable Type

Most important from
134 reviews

Load Capacity
Its construction and performance inspire confidence, making it a dependable choice for smaller ATVs.
Cable Type
The wiring setup could be improved, as the provided cables are slightly short, requiring some users to splice extensions for easier installation.
#3

Superwinch 1712201 SX12SR 12V DC Electric Waterproof Recovery Winch 12,000lb/5,443kg Single Line Pull with Hawse Fairlead 3/8in x 85ft Synthetic Rope Corded Handheld and Wireless Remote No-Bind Clutch

Rating
8.8
Load Capacity
Cable Type
Control Options

Most important from
91 reviews

Load Capacity
Hard to find a 12k winch at this price, providing reliable self-recovery in tough situations.
Cable Type
Pulls with ease and operates quietly, with a barrel light and high-quality rope adding to its appeal.
Control Options
Simple to install and easy to wire, worked flawlessly both wired and wirelessly.

The Superwinch 1712201 SX12SR is a robust ATV winch capable of pulling up to 12,000 pounds (5,443 kg), making it suitable for heavy-duty tasks. The winch employs a synthetic rope, known for being lighter and easier to handle than steel cables. With a line speed and control options that include both a corded handheld and a wireless remote, this winch offers flexibility in operation.

The fully sealed drum, gearbox, and contactor (solenoid) ensure that it remains protected from harsh elements, thanks to its IP68 waterproof rating. This makes it durable and reliable in various weather conditions, from extreme cold (-40°F) to high heat (125°F). The steel winch drum adds to its durability, as it is less likely to crack or shatter compared to aluminum drums. Additionally, the easy-to-operate clutch handle with a no-bind design enhances usability.

However, potential buyers should note its weight and size, making it less portable and possibly requiring a more permanent mounting system. This winch seems ideal for those needing a powerful and reliable winch for ATV use, capable of handling tough conditions and heavy loads, albeit at the expense of portability.

Rating
8.8
Load Capacity
Cable Type
Control Options

Most important from
91 reviews

Load Capacity
Hard to find a 12k winch at this price, providing reliable self-recovery in tough situations.
Cable Type
Pulls with ease and operates quietly, with a barrel light and high-quality rope adding to its appeal.
Control Options
Simple to install and easy to wire, worked flawlessly both wired and wirelessly.

Buying Guide for the Best Atv Winches

Choosing the right ATV winch can make a significant difference in your off-road adventures. A winch is a crucial tool for getting your ATV out of tough spots, whether you're stuck in mud, snow, or navigating difficult terrain. To ensure you pick the best winch for your needs, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they relate to your specific requirements.
Load CapacityLoad capacity, also known as pulling power, is the maximum weight the winch can handle. This is crucial because it determines whether the winch can effectively pull your ATV out of challenging situations. Load capacities are typically measured in pounds. For light ATVs, a winch with a capacity of 2,000 to 3,000 pounds is usually sufficient. For heavier ATVs or more demanding conditions, you might need a winch with a capacity of 3,500 pounds or more. To choose the right load capacity, consider the weight of your ATV and any additional gear you might be carrying.
Motor TypeThe motor type of a winch affects its performance and durability. There are two main types: permanent magnet motors and series wound motors. Permanent magnet motors are lighter and more efficient, making them suitable for occasional use and lighter loads. Series wound motors are more robust and can handle heavier loads and more frequent use, making them ideal for serious off-road enthusiasts. Choose a motor type based on how often you plan to use the winch and the typical conditions you'll encounter.
Cable TypeWinch cables come in two main types: steel cable and synthetic rope. Steel cables are durable and resistant to abrasion, making them suitable for rugged conditions. However, they are heavier and can develop sharp burrs over time. Synthetic ropes are lighter, easier to handle, and safer because they don't store as much kinetic energy, reducing the risk of injury if they break. They are also more flexible and easier to repair. Choose a cable type based on your preference for handling and the typical terrain you'll be navigating.
Line SpeedLine speed refers to how quickly the winch can pull in the cable. Faster line speeds can save time and reduce the strain on the winch motor, but they may also require more power. Line speeds are usually measured in feet per minute. For general use, a moderate line speed of around 10-15 feet per minute is adequate. If you need to recover your ATV quickly or frequently, look for a winch with a higher line speed. Consider your typical recovery scenarios to determine the appropriate line speed for your needs.
Control OptionsWinches can be controlled using wired or wireless remote controls. Wired remotes are reliable and don't require batteries, but they limit your mobility. Wireless remotes offer more flexibility, allowing you to operate the winch from a distance, which can be safer in certain situations. Some winches come with both options, providing versatility. Choose a control option based on your preference for convenience and safety. If you often find yourself in tricky situations, a wireless remote might be more beneficial.
Mounting SystemThe mounting system is how the winch attaches to your ATV. It's important to ensure that the winch is compatible with your ATV's mounting points. Some winches come with universal mounting plates, while others may require specific mounting kits. Check your ATV's specifications and choose a winch that can be securely mounted. A proper mounting system ensures that the winch operates effectively and safely.

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