The 10 Best Winches For Jeep In 2023 – Top Models Reviewed

So, you have owned a new jeep and preparing for a long drive. You have packed your shoes, clothes, food, and other necessary kinds of stuff. But something is missing, guess what? Yes, you need a winch to complete the package. Indeed, with a top quality winch put in your jeep, you are ready for an off-road trip always and all the ways.

A piece of winch is a must-have tool that you really need while you are going for an off-road adventure. You might have to drive on uneven surfaces from time to time; this is why you need the best friend in need so that you can avail yourself the quickest and easiest recovery while left stranded or stuck unfortunately in a hole, mud, or a ditch.

But finding the best winch for jeep is not a simple task since the entire market is loaded with hundreds of models. Rest assured, that task is made easier and faster as we are here with 10 top-quality winches for jeep, which guaranty you a safe and peaceful journey!

10 Best Jeep Winches at a Glance with Quick Summary

1. Best Overall: Smittybilt X2O Electric Winch

"It offers 4 different load capacity and 6.6 HP motor to pull around 10,000 to 17500 pounds of weight with ease. Besides, the dynamic braking system allows you to control the entire piece of stuff without much effort."

2. Best All-Weather: X-BULL 12V Synthetic Rope Electric Winch

"A high-tensile Dyneema rope with robust control unit is perfect for heavy-duty tasks. The free-spooling clutch precisely controls the recovery operation."

3. Best Versatile: WARN VR EVO 12V Electric Winch

"Comes with an advanced 12V DC motor and convertible control pack for versatile mounting. The whole base is made of heavy-duty metal that lasts for years.”

4. Top Rated: Smittybilt GEN 2 XRC Winch

"Completely hassle-free when it comes to the installation process. For better functionality, it is built with a waterproof design."

5. Best Value: WARN VR Series Electric Winch

"For tolerating lots of pressure, it comes equipped with a wound-series motor. The weight is only 76.1 pounds that is a convenience to maneuver the unit and comes 3 different models of VR 8, VR10, & VR12."

6. Best Premium: WARN ZEON Platinum Winch

"The ZEON Platinum uses both synthetic rope and steel cable. A wireless remote is included to control the stuff the way you want. It comes with both 10,000 lbs and 12,000 lbs of pulling capacity."

7. Best for Unique Design: ZEAK 13000 lb Waterproof Winch

"Meticulous design with strong coated body offers maximum durability. A 6 HP motor pulls the heaviest objects with ease."

8. Best Multi-Purpose: ZESUPER 13000-lb Synthetic Rope Winch

"All metal body with a rustproof finish and 6.4HP motor help to perform multiple recovery tasks. With its 3-stage gearbox, you can control the device pretty smoothly."

9. Best Affordable: Rough PRO Series Electric Winch

"It is waterproof and dust-proof to beat hostile weather and rusting. Includes a 100-feet cable to maintain a safe distance while winching. The motor is resistant to overheating issues, thankfully!"

10. Best Under $500: Superwinch LP Gen II Winch

"The circuit breaker is weather-sealed, which enables you to work in any weather without facing any issues. Included with a 4.5 HP motor."

In-Depth Reviews of The 10 Best Winches For Jeep 

After hours and hours of research, we have picked up the top 10 best winches for jeep. If you still feel confused after reading the jeep winch reviews, make sure to check out the buying guide section that is loaded with all the required information.

1. Best Overall: Smittybilt X2O Electric Winch

We highly recommend this model for those who are in search of the best jeep winch. With the assistance of a 6.6 HP motor, Smittybilt X2O is capable of pulling around 10,000 to 17,500 in a breeze.

The hardware is made of stainless steel material for assuring rigidity. Also, it features a dynamic braking system as well as two mounting options for controlling the whole process effortlessly. Thankfully, you can operate the machine from a distance with the help of a wireless remote.

You can fit this device on any vehicle with ease since the weight is pretty much decent to go compatible even with smaller ones. From the customer reviews, it's evident that the synthetic rope is super strong and it allows you to pull almost every jeep with less effort.

Without facing any issues, you can use it in any weather, thanks to the waterproof design! We like that the winch offers a snatch block with a winch shackle. But it would have been better if these things were included in the package.

By the way, every model of the winch comes with different cable options (synthetic rope or steel cable).

Upsides:

• Massive load-hauling capacity
• Powerful motor to back huge dragging
• Rigid hardware to bear with off-terrain use and abuse
• Pretty simple to monitor the whole stuff
• The flexible winching rope serves more but requires less maintenance
• Waterproof to work all the year-round

Downsides:

• Shorter mounting brackets
• Instructions are not precise

The Bottom-Line: You can get recovered fast with ease backed by huge pulling power. And the above-the-average control makes the other way tedious job a breeze.

2. Best All-Weather: X-BULL 12V Synthetic Rope Electric Winch

A rare combination of power and versatility, the X-BULL tires have always been reliable to users for their efficiency and positive load control. This well-built winch with its robust control unit and a high-speed motor is suitable for daily pull and all types of environments.

From what we have seen so far, users are most impressed by the high-tensile synthetic rope.

This Dyneema rope comes with a breaking strength of 13,000 lbs! Besides being 10 times stronger than steel wires, it's extremely light reducing the winch weight up to 20 lbs.

The rope floats on water and functional well even at minus 20 degrees Celsius. It shows excellent resistance against extreme weather, abrasion, UV rays, and chemicals. Pulling 10,000 lbs heavy-duty trucks will be a piece of cake with this incredible synthetic rope.

To improve weather resistance further, the package includes protective sleeves to cover the wiring and motor housing. Plus, the control box is well-sealed for weather protection and eliminating short circuits. Overall, the winch has a waterproof IP67 rating making it perfect for all weathers.

We also like that a soft waterproof cover is included to cover the winch from rain, snow, and dust. The 12V DC 5.6HP motor is highly efficient with a 7 ft per minute pull for a full load. A free-spooling clutch lever provides better control over the device.

Moreover, you can use the wireless remote to operate the clutch from a distance. Honestly, getting all these features at such an affordable price is like a dream come true.

Upsides:

• Highly efficient motor offers 7 ft full load pulling speed
• Incredibly strong waterproof and weather-resistant synthetic wire
• Easy-to-operate clutch lever
• Sealed heavy-duty contractor with positive load control
• Improved torque for faster line speed

Downsides:

• Installation instructions are difficult to follow
• Unprotected isolator

The Bottom-Line: With a robust built and incredibly strong pulling rope, this winch can beat any harsh weather condition. If you want speed and durability without spending much, this one is your best bet.

3. Best Versatile: WARN VR EVO 12V Electric Winch

The brand WARN has a wide line of winches and all of them are known for their strong construction and reliable performance. The WARN 103252 VR EVO is probably the best and most versatile one of the series. With a maximum 12,000 lb pulling capacity, this winch is perfect for two-door jeeps, light trucks, and SUVs.

A 12V wound series motor along with a 3-stage planetary gear increase the magnetic torque.

Hence, it delivers a faster line speed even when fully loaded, and that too with a lower amp draw. Plus, the 3-segment mechanical cone brake functions automatically to smoothly control the recovery process.

We liked the redesigned clutch design over the previous models. You can expect it to be more responsive and easier to control even when you're wearing gloves. WARN also replaced the tie rods with cast aluminum tie plates. It looks better, reduces noise, and increases the overall structural integrity.

The advancement doesn't end here. Instead of solenoids, the VR EVO winches feature waterproof Albright contractors inside the control pack. From the customer feedback, we found that it's more reliable, long-lasting, and easier to control. 

Talking of the control pack, it can be relocated for increased versatility. You can keep it integrated or mount it separately to add extra convenience. Adding to the versatility, the remote control can be also used with the 12 ft cable or wirelessly for distant operations.

Finally, you can either choose the synthetic wire or the stainless steel option as per your preference.

Upsides:

• Powerful and efficient motor with increased torque
• Waterproof and weather-resistant body construction
• Automatic cone brake for added safety
• Durable and easy-to-control tie plate
• High-quality synthetic or stainless rope for reliable pulling

Downsides:

• The outer surface can be easily scratched
• A roller fairlead would have been better for steel rope

The Bottom-Line: The winch comes from a top-rated brand with tons of unique features. A convertible control pack, multiple installation options, wireless remote control, etc. are a treat for people who seek versatility.

See Also: In-Depth Reviews of 7 Best Warn Winches

4. Top Rated: Smittybilt GEN 2 XRC Winch

Smittybilt GEN 2 XRC Winch is hands down, one of the best jeep wrangler winches out there in the marketplace. It features 5 different models with multiple weight capacity that is more than enough in this price range.

Luckily, you can choose either any from the type of synthetic or stainless steel rope. Alongside this benefit, it features a 6.6 HP motor that is pretty strong to pull giant loads at ease and includes a waterproof design to withstand harsh weather.

We have talked about a 3-stage planetary gear train before. But this one seems more efficient which makes your winching task pretty simple. For controlling the braking system, it provides a corded remote.

However, we couldn't find any mention of any wireless remote control and that's a bummer for its price point. 

Installing this winch is hassle-free which could be a plus for newbies. The four-way roller is for supreme convenience at operation for effortless release and retracts at need.

Can you afford to spend more cash? If so, then you can buy the winch with cover and a piece of cradle additionally. They will add to your convenience and winch life if not functionality.

Upsides:

• Friendly with the harsh weather condition
• Pretty simple to install
• 6.6 HP powerful motor for power pulling
• 4-way roller meant for comfortable and convenient operation
• Can pick the matching unit from 5 different weight capacity

Downsides:

• Flimsy controller
• Reported by few to be not that waterproof

The Bottom-Line: The unit is able to hold lots of pressure with ease. And you can pull a heavyweight vehicle without much effort. It can beat the hostile weather, and off-road distress will be a gone matter. And the friendly features will make the trip on an uneven track a memorable one.

See Also: In-Depth Reviews of 4 Best Smittybilt Winches

5. Best Value: WARN VR Series Electric Winch

This particular model from WARN also offers reliability, and durability and comes with a waterproof design. So, the chance of using it in the rain, snow, or muddy areas is not something that slips by at any cost. For maximum control, it includes a load-hauling cone brake for added maneuverability in operation. Plus, it keeps a firm hold on the weight during a power outage.

Although lower than others, we think the maximum weight capacity of about 12,000 pounds is enough for medium to heavy duty tasks. The winch makes the job done fast and smooth with its 90-feet synthetic ropes. It's made of high-quality material to stand the high pressure, wear, and tear of the uneven and off-road tracks.

Just like the previous WARN models, this one also comes with a series-wound motor. It can easily move and shift lots of loads without wasting much energy.

To us, the winch seems to be convenient for moving from one place to another thanks to its light weight. It fits almost every vehicle with ease; this is why we are fond of the low-profile design.

Upsides:

• Easy to control, maintain, and operate for a low-profile design
• Compatible with all types of vehicles
• Ensures maximum control and recovery service
• Delivers stiff ropes not to slack or snap at high tension hauling
• Backed by a 7-year electrical warranty

Downsides:

• Bolts might get rusty
• Plenty of unhidden cables to connect to the battery

The Bottom-Line: WARN VR is compatible with all vehicles and workable in all seasons. This is why you can’t resist the unit and so challenge raining and snowing. Not to mention the robust load-hauling capacity and sturdy winch body to fit an off-raod truck, jeep, and the likes.

6. Best Premium: WARN ZEON Platinum Winch

WARN ZEON might be a smart pick for those who can afford additional expenses. Compared with similar options, it is more durable, reliable, and versatile. Also, the brand value of WARN speaks for itself.

The winch features an advanced wireless remote and you can monitor the whole device within a snap. We love the unique addition of a display to track the motor temperature and take action to avoid mishaps resulting from overheating.

Users are also benefitted from the car charger adapter and USB charging cable included with it for emergency charging.

To make the pulling process easy, this particular winch offers a 100-feet synthetic rope that can pull nearly 10,000 to 12,000 pounds. But you can get an 80-feet wire rope by purchasing a steel cable option, which packs almost the same features except 20 feet cut in the rope.

Thanks to the waterproof design, you can use the winch on muddy terrains, rain, snow, and other brutal conditions.

Upsides:

• Includes a portable wireless remote for safe monitoring
• Easy to read the motor’s temperature and avoid overheating
• Durable and long-lasting rope for extended rescue in distress
• Lightweight to add to maneuverability
• Emergency power charging to keep you connected at the remote area

Downsides:

• The battery is weaker and runs out quickly
• Pricier than the rivals

The Bottom-Line: A huge lot of benefits to grab it at sight. To name a few include being able to prevent overheating, recharge your gadgets in an emergency, cordless monitoring, and above all robust pulling power. What more do you need?

7. Best for Unique Design: ZEAK 13000 lb Waterproof Winch

Although most winches have the same design, brands like ZEAK experimented to deliver a better design and improved performance for the users. This pick of ours is unique in every way from its design to its features. Let's see if it makes any difference.

To achieve a 13,000 lbs load capacity, the winch boasts a 12V 6HP series wound motor. Yes, the ampere draw is low but thanks to the 236:1 gear ratio, the motor is very powerful. It perfectly works with trucks, SUVs, and trailers and is an ideal choice for heavy-duty uses.

However, you should know that the gear ratio discounts its speed a bit. The winch is rated at 5 feet per minute Full load drag speed which is underwhelming in our opinion. Yet, the 3-stage planetary gear delivers a powerful pull in any given weather condition.

We love the waterproof, all-metal, highly durable design of the winch. It features a black powder coating to protect the outer surface from dust, corrosion, rust, UV rays, and other harmful weather factors.

All the inner components are meticulously designed and placed to peak their efficiency and performance. And it definitely reflects in the expert and customer reviews.

The highly responsive wireless remote deserves a special mention. It smoothly launches the recovery operation and helps you precisely control the process.

Plus, small objects or harsh weather can't restrict its functionality. Although the 86 ft synthetic rope is strong, we wish there was a stainless steel option for added convenience.

Upsides:

• Energy-saving 6HP motor with excellent pulling power
• Durable all-metal construction with weather protection
• Black powder coating resist rust and corrosion
• Wireless remote with 32 feet range
• Sealed solenoid and circuit breaker for safety

Downsides:

• Underwhelming pulling speed of 5ft/min
• No stainless steel rope option

The Bottom-Line: From style to power, this winch delivers it all. This heavy-duty device works well both in dry and wet weather and comes with all the necessary tools for easy installation.

8. Best Multi-Purpose: ZESUPER 13000-lb Synthetic Rope Winch

ZESUPER is one of the underrated brands in the market. To ensure the best quality, the brand constantly tests the products and brings new upgrades. This 13000 lbs multi-purpose winch is not only attractive but also combines the best features to pull the heaviest load from the most difficult situations.

Thanks to the detailed instruction guide, installing the winch is super easy. The package includes all the required tools so that it can be ready within minutes. You can choose the orange or black version to add style to your car.

We think the motor is the best part of this winch. It's made of pure copper with high magnetic inductive melt point characteristics. Besides delivering strong power, the motor also prevents heat dissipation. So, it saves energy and effectively resists temperature damage.

With an IP67 waterproof rating, the winch prevents water and sand intrusion. Plus, the smooth finish easily adapts to various weather conditions. Users also found the upgraded wireless remote very handy and sensitive. It can smoothly pull the rope in and out from up to 65 feet of distance! 

Another incredible feature is the 3/8’’ x 78 feet synthetic rope. 12 fine strands were used to make this rope super strong and durable. Manufacturers claim the rope is 10 times stronger than steel ropes and the user reviews seem to agree with that. 

However, we think the 78 ft rope is a bit short and a stainless steel option would have been better for some users.

Upsides:

• Pure copper-made motor works efficiently without wasting energy
• Attractive waterproof finish resists heat damage
• Easy to install with provided accessories
• Strong and highly durable synthetic rope
• Suitable for heavy-duty uses

Downsides:

• The rope could have been longer
• Replacement parts aren't readily available

The Bottom-Line: Attractive, functional, versatile, and convenient, this winch is a bang for the bucks. You can use this multi-purpose winch for trucks, cars, boats, UTVs, modified vehicles, jeeps, and utility trailers.

9. Best Affordable: Rough PRO Series Electric Winch

Are you wondering about purchasing the best budget winch for jeep? No need to search elsewhere or wait for long, as we have got the Rough Country PRO right here for you. Although it has a lower weight capacity and less powerful motor, we think all the other features can easily compete with other premium winches.

The 5.5 HP motor is not much superior, yet it is more than enough to pull mid-sized jeeps. The holding capacity is up to 9500 pounds, which is pretty decent in this price range.

It includes a 100-feet cable that is built with stainless steel. So, the possibility of wear and tear is pretty less. Thanks to the long cable, users could get their stuck vehicles out of muddy and watery areas without any hassle.

With the help of a three-stage braking system, it will be pretty easy to control the recovery process. A wired remote is also provided, which allows you to initiate and terminate the hauling task by maintaining a safe distance.

What we like about the motor is that it's resistant to overheating. So, at least you don't have to face burning or exploding issues!

Upsides:

• Friendly with rain, mud, or snow
• Budget-friendly winch
• Compatible with mid-sized vehicles
• Free from overheating issues
• Both dust and waterproof
• Backed by a 2-year electrical and 1-year mechanical warranty

Downsides:

• Keep it away if you have to pull giant-sized vehicles
• Fairlead is not attached and requires buying extra brackets 

The Bottom-Line: Even if you are running it for long, you don't have to face overheating issues, So you can go on until you rescued the stranded vehicle at one go. The huge load-hauling ability makes a recovery faster and operation becomes easier assisted by the convenient features.

Also Check: 7 Best 9500 Lb Winches on the Market

10. Best Under $500: Superwinch LP Gen II Winch

You should take a look at Superwinch LP Gen2 if you are searching for the best jeep winch under 500. Despite being an affordable winch, it has a lot of things on offer. Let's check them out.

The winch offers a 4.5 HP wound series motor that is quite efficient for pulling mid-sized jeeps. 

As the maximum weight capacity of the LP8500 is around 8,500 pounds, it's more suitable for light cars. If you need more power, we suggest you go with the LP10000 that delivers a 5.1 HP motor for hauling 10,000 pounds at a go.

In order to pull a vehicle effortlessly, it equips steel wire rope along with a latched hook. We appreciate the sealed solenoids and the circuit breaker as they reduce the chances of shock and overheating. Plus, both these parts are weather-sealed, allowing you to use them in any season without facing rain, wind, and snow issues.

You can maintain a safer distance while operating the tool since it includes a 15' handheld remote that is made of rubber. On the other side, the LP10000 version packs a 12’ handheld remote.

Although the 94-feet 5/16" steel wire rope is pretty durable, users who prefer synthetic ropes might not be comfortable with it. Also, we think a roller fairlead would have been a better option over the hawse fairlead for the steel wire.

Upsides:

• Affordable price but high-end services
• Weather-sealed to fight the hostile conditions
• Easily controllable through a handheld remote
• Huge pulling strength not to falter while pulling a giant load
• Two options to pick the matching unit from

Downsides:

• Rusting issues
• Not for the massive-sized jeep

The Bottom-Line: By just spending a small amount of cash, pulling approximately 8,500 to 10,000 pounds of weight is not bad in this price range. Also, you can maintain enough safety while operating.

Also Check: In-Depth Reviws of 10 Best Superwinches

How To Choose The Best Winch For Jeep

If you are getting confused after reading all those reviews, don't worry; here is our buying guide to help you select the right winch for your jeep.

Every unit here is the top-notch, but all of them are not meant for the same level of hauling though the purpose is the same. Read on to know the crucial factors that can reach you to the right off-road friend of yours.

Capacity

Without a shred of doubt, it is the most crucial factor that you should Consider before buying a jeep winch. Of course, the winch that you want to purchase should be able to pull lots of weight. Otherwise, you won't get the maximum benefit!

The Smittybilt GEN 2 XRC has got a maximum loading capacity that is up to 17,500 pounds. If you have owned a massive type of jeep, then this winch is highly recommended for you.

Rope Material

Alongside the capacity, you should also prioritize the rope material of a winch. Basically, you will find two different types of cable, including synthetic and stainless steel rope.

A strong rope will help you to pull a vehicle with ease. The metal/wire cable winch is for those who are on a tight budget. But, it is necessary to put on gloves while you are pulling with steel rope; bear in mind!

If you can spend some extras, the synthetic rope winch will be the best option for sure. It is flexible, but it needs a lot of maintenance. To Learn more on winch rope comparison, go through this article.

Motor

Definitely, you can't pull a bulky type of jeep without the assistance of a powerful motor.

Generally, a winch motor provides the power to the winch in order to accomplish the job perfectly. So, it is impossible to get the maximum result if you have owned a winch with a weaker motor!

Smittybilt X2O comes with a superior 6.6 HP motor to take heavy loads in a breeze!

Length of Cable

If you are someone who wants to pull a vehicle at a long distance, then, of course, you have to go with a lengthy type of rope. Keep in mind, if your cable is too long, it means your winch should be equipped with a powerful motor so that it can pull a big-sized jeep easily.

But do not go for a lengthy cable if you are not in need as it is a hassle to organize. Whatever the type of the winch string, go for length you are or will be in need of. As for preference, the longer one is the winner. 100-feet cables are the best ones for both light and heavy recovery operations.

How to Set Up a Jeep Winch

It is not rocket science, you can do it all by yourself by earning just a little bit of knowledge concerning the winch-installation process. Focus on the following steps to have a precise guideline.

Step-1

The first duty is to get an ideal winch and then place it with care to the bulbar of a vehicle.

Step-2

Make sure of a connection between the leads and the battery of your jeep. This particular rule is actually for those who have owned a piece of an electric winch. On the other hand, you can connect the lead to the vehicle's steering pump if you have a hydraulic winch.

This is how you can install a winch. Always make sure to follow the manual's guide in order to stay out of danger.

You can also see this in-depth jeep winch installation guide that we've written with pre-installation and post installation wiring tips.

FAQs

How strong should a winch on my Jeep be?

Once you are stuck with your vehicle in a big hole, the winch is the best friend in need and indeed. That is why it is necessary to have a powerful or strong winch equipped with a robust motor. As for the exact strength, the weight of your vehicle determines the strength of the winch.

Next comes the strength of rope or cable that plays a significant role in pulling, lifting, and towing. This is why you should go with top quality synthetic or stainless steel rope to accomplish the winching task successfully. The motor is another core thing that should be powerful as well.

What size of a winch do I need for my jeep?

It depends. If you have owned a wrangler or similar types of jeeps, then it is obligatory to get big-sized winches, which should be durable, reliable, and versatile at the same time. To get an in-depth guide on jeep winch size, you can read this article: automobilenote.com/what-size-winch-for-jeep/

How do I mount a winch to a stock jeep bumper?

Pretty simple, most of the winch is available with winch-plates that allows you to mount it to a jeep bumper easily. If you are a beginner, you can read the manual to know each and every piece of information regarding installation.

Is a 3000 pound winch too small for my jeep?

In a short reply, yes! Most of the smaller jeeps will come with that much weight or around it to the least. So, the stated winch capacity will fall far short of the basic winch capacity, even for the smaller jeeps.

How much is a winch for a Jeep?

Sooth to say, you will find a variety of models along with different price tags. We have picked up a few winches that come with a reasonable price range so that anyone can afford this tool with ease. The average rate is between 200$-2000$.

What is a good winch for a Jeep Wrangler?

Jeep wrangler is basically a type of mid-sized jeep which requires a powerful winch when it comes to pulling or lifting. This is why we recommend choosing the Smittybilt GEN 2, which might be a good option for jeep wrangler.

How big of a winch do I need for my Jeep?

Actually, size doesn't matter when it comes to choosing a winch. You have to prioritize the power, durability, and most importantly, the load-hauling capacity.

Our Verdict

In a nutshell, Smittybilt X2O is our clear winner. The hardware is made of stainless steel material for assuring durability.

The second pick goes to the Smittybilt GEN 2, which has a weight capacity of around 12,000 pounds. Besides, it includes a 6.6 HP waterproof motor, which you can use in any season easily.

Our top-priority list would stay incomplete with the existence of the ZESUPER Synthetic Rope Winch. It boasts a 6.4 HP motor to deliver maximum power and strength when it comes to pulling or lifting. With an IP67 rating, this multipurpose winch works excellent on wet and muddy terrains. The wireless remote system is just a cherry on the cake.

We are done with our comprehensive reviews of the best winch for jeep. Now, the choice is yours; break a leg!

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