7 Best Jeep Winches [2022 Review]

Let’s face it: off-roading on a challenging trail is all fun and games until you make one teeny tiny mistake and end up stuck in a ditch with no one around to help. And even if you are the type of driver who doesn’t make mistakes, getting a winch for your Jeep is still extremely important. As the famous saying goes — it is better to have and not need than to need and not have. Besides, a winch can also come in handy to clear large obstacles off a trail or even rescue fellow off-roaders.

Still, understanding the need for a winch is one thing but finding the right one according to your needs and budget is another. Luckily, we have curated and reviewed some of the best Jeep winches we could find. The list includes a diverse selection of Jeep winches, so there is a model for you no matter your style of driving (and budget, of course).

If you are still unsure of which one would be the best choice for you, don’t hesitate to refer to the buying guide included below to make an informed decision.

Jeep Winch Reviews

1. OFF-ROAD BOAR QZ014 Electric Winch Kit — Budget Pick

The Off-Road Boar electric winch kit is the best budget-friendly option on this list. Still, despite being the cheap model, it still offers a load capacity of up to 13,000 lbs., meaning you can use it to move any Jeep on the planet and then some. Such a high capacity is possible thanks to a powerful electric motor equipped with an efficient planetary gear system allowing for a large gear reduction ratio of 265:1. It’s important to mention that a larger reduction ratio means you get higher torque while sacrificing speed. As a result, the QZ014 winch works at 22 feet per minute when unloaded, and the rate drops to 3.6 ft/min under full load conditions—it sure isn’t the fastest winch out there, but it will get the job done.

This affordable yet powerful winch also offers two control options; you can choose between a wireless remote control and a wired control switch depending on the situation. In addition, the kit also includes an 85’ synthetic rope, a roller fairlead, and a clevis hook.

As a result, the Offroad Boar QZ014 electric winch is hands-down the best Jeep winch for anyone on a tight budget. It is packed with enough oomph to bring even the moon a little closer and comes with lifetime technical support, so you don’t have to worry about anything.

Highlighted features

• 13,000 lbs. load capacity
• 6 hp series wound motor with 3-stage planetary gear set
• Overall dimensions: 20.8” X 6.5” X 8.6”
• Wired and wireless control options
• Kit includes a roller fairlead, a clevis hook, and an 85’ synthetic rope

Pros

• High value for money
• High load capacity
• Dual-control options
• Waterproof construction for longevity
• Lifetime technical support and a one-year limited warranty

Cons

• Installation process can be a bit tricky on aftermarket bumpers

2. Rough Country PRO Series Electric Winch

Those willing to spend a little bit more should definitely consider the Rough Country PRO Series Electric Winch. It is similar to the previous model in terms of overall performance and motor specifications, but let’s admit it, it looks a lot better. The PRO Series Electric winch offers the same 6 hp motor with a planetary gear set providing the same 265:1 gear reduction ratio.

Although the maximum load rating is now down to 12,000 lbs. (1,000 lbs lower than the previous one), it is still more than sufficient for any Jeep vehicle. Additionally, you get an automatic in-drum braking system, so the motor doesn’t risk being damaged when the rope is under heavy tension.

Rough Country’s PRO Series also includes accessories like a clevis hook, a sturdy hawse fairlead, an 85′ synthetic rope, and a 12′ wired remote control. The only downside is that Rough Country does not offer wireless control. It’s not that big of a deal, but we can’t deny that being able to operate a winch from afar can sometimes be quite handy.

In addition to a strong motor, Rough Country’s electric winch is also quite the looker. If you have an aftermarket bumper fitted to your Jeep, it will only look better with a dope blacked-out winch on it!

Highlighted features

• 12,000 lbs. load capacity
• 6 hp series wound motor with 3-stage planetary gear set
• Overall dimensions: 21.3” X 6.3” X 8.6”
• 12’ wired remote control
• Kit includes a hawse fairlead, a clevis hook, and an 85’ synthetic rope

Pros

• Straightforward and quick installation process
• IP67 water and dustproof motor
• High load capacity
• Comes with a solid and safe synthetic rope
• One-year electrical and two years mechanical warranty

Cons

• No wireless remote control

Download your Jeep owners manual here!

3. Superwinch 1475200 S7500 Winch

Anyone familiar with the off-road world knows Superwinch makes reliable, high-quality winches for a fairly reasonable price—and of course, this one is exactly that. The S7500 electric winch is a fine example of Superwinch’s meticulous attention to detail and exemplary craftsmanship — not to mention that it looks unlike any other winch you might have seen before.

Indeed, the S7500 features a lightweight custom aluminum housing that gives it an unusually boxy but quite futuristic look. We’re not complaining, though. The exceptionally strong housing can even hold your entire body weight, meaning you can step and stand on it whenever required (and you know it will eventually happen).

Hidden beneath the aluminum housing is a 3.6 hp permanent magnet motor with the familiar three-stage planetary gearbox setup, resulting in a maximum load capacity of 7,500 lbs. The gearbox uses premium steel alloy gears for optimum strength and longer life than most.

But that’s not all — the Superwinch S7500 has another trick up its sleeve. You also get a machined aluminum flip-switch lever to control the drum’s movement easily. Flick the switch up, and the drum goes into free-spool so you can easily attach the clevis hook in place. Bring the switch back down again to lock the drum in place and use the wired remote to start winching.

If you are looking for a winch that will make head turns while being there to give you a hand saving your Jeep from tricky situations, this is the one you need.

Highlighted features

• 7,500 lbs. load capacity
• 3.6 hp permanent magnet motor with three-stage planetary gear set
• Overall dimensions: 19.7” X 7.8” X 7.2”
• 30’ wired remote control
• Kit includes a hawse fairlead, a clevis hook, and a 55’ synthetic rope

Pros

• Machined aluminum free-spool lever
• Strong aluminum exterior housing
• Plastic drum cover to protect the rope
• Reasonably priced
• Limited lifetime warranty

Cons

• Wireless remote costs extra

4. Superwinch 1712200 SX12 Winch — Editor’s Pick

The Superwinch SX12 electric winch is another model that won’t look out of place on tuned Jeeps. It features a sleek body with stylish design cues not found in other high-end winches. To top it all off, you get a stealthy dark finish that goes well with any Jeep, irrespective of the body color.

But don’t think of it as all show and no go, as we believe it performs even better than it looks. The 6 hp series wound motor allows you to pull up to 12,000 lbs effortlessly, and the three-stage planetary gearbox with a 231:1 reduction gear ratio will provide all the torque you will ever need and do so faster than the previous models.

The ergonomic pull-and-turn free spooling handle is pretty convenient and allows you to hook up the load safely—don’t forget to lock it in place once you are done, though. Next, pull the load by operating the 12′ wired remote control, and you’re good to go.

Superwinch’s SX12 electric winch is for those who want a reliable and strong model with a dash of stealthy styling. It is the perfect combination of ergonomics, longevity, performance, and good looks. Also, Superwinch offers a limited lifetime warranty, which only sweetens the deal a little more.

Highlighted features

• 12,000 lbs. load capacity
• 6 hp series wound motor with 3-stage planetary gear set
• Overall dimensions: 22.04” X 6.3” X 9.67”
• 12’ wired remote control
• Kit includes a 4-way roller fairlead, a clevis hook, and an 85’ steel wire rope

Pros

• IP68 rating for complete peace of mind
• Good looks with excellent performance
• High load capacity
• Ergonomic design
• Lifetime limited warranty with seven years limited electrical warranty

Cons

• None—when it works, it works

5. Smittybilt 98510 X2O COMP Synthetic Rope Winch

Smittybilt is the undisputed king when it comes to premium aftermarket off-road products. It develops superior equipment designed to finish the job right and last longer than the competition, and the X20 wireless rope winch is no exception. It comes with a sophisticated and powerful 6.6 hp series wound electric motor capable of pulling up to 10,000 lbs. The motor is coupled with a familiar planetary gear set to provide a 218:1 reduction ratio for optimum torque and speed. Put simply; it’s strong and fast—as simple as that!

Besides, you don’t have to worry about rain or even wading your Jeep through puddles since the Smittybilt 98510 winch comes with an IP68 rating. Even the highly advanced 500Amp solenoid is completely waterproof for complete peace of mind.

Moreover, the stainless steel hardware is designed to provide maximum flexibility. For example, you can choose between two mounting points for the solenoid unit depending on the available space. Moreover, there is a wireless remote control so you can stay out of harm’s way when operating the winch.

The Smittybilt 98510 X20 winch is the perfect option for those looking for a functional, no-nonsense premium model. It will work effortlessly no matter the conditions and for years to come.

Highlighted features

• 10,000 lbs. load capacity
• 6.6 hp series wound motor with 3-stage planetary gear set
• Overall dimensions: 22.3” X 5.4” X 9.4”
• Wireless remote
• Kit includes a hawse fairlead, a forged hook, and a 98.5’ synthetic rope

Pros

• Convenient remote control
• IP68 waterproof rating
• Flexible mounting options for solenoid
• High value for money
• Lifetime mechanical and five years electrical warranty

Cons

• Replacement parts can be costly

6. Smittybilt 98612 XRC 12K GEN3 Winch COMP Series

The Smittybilt XRC GEN3 COMP Series electric winch comes with one of the most powerful motors on this list. Indeed, it features a state-of-the-art 7 hp electric motor which, when coupled with the newly designed forged gearing system, can pull up to 12,000 lbs effortlessly.

Now that’s a lot of power, but the XRC GEN3 winch also looks the part. After just one glance at its aggressive body, you won’t doubt its capabilities. You also get detachable body armor components that can be used to customize the overall appearance according to your taste—pretty neat, right?

Another unique feature offered on the XRC is the advanced remote control system. The winch comes with an ergonomic remote that also indicates winch load at any given time, so you can keep an eye on that. Moreover, the wired remote houses a flashlight to see what you are doing at night.

If you are looking for an electric winch that works well in the harshest conditions while looking quite good on your aftermarket bumper, the Smittybilt XRC GEN3 is the perfect option. It’s built for extreme off-roading and comes with a reasonable price tag—what’s not to like?

Highlighted features

• 12,000 lbs. load capacity
• 7 hp series wound motor with 3-stage planetary gear set
• Overall dimensions: 27” X 14” X 10”
• 12’ wired remote controller
• Kit includes a hawse fairlead, a forged hook, and a 95’ synthetic rope

Pros

• Advanced remote controller with an integrated flashlight and load indicator
• Customizable body armor components
• Extremely powerful motor
• Strong forged gears
• IP67 rating
• Lifetime mechanical and five years electrical warranty

Cons

• You can’t go wrong with Smittybilt…

7. WARN 92810 Zeon Platinum 10 — Premium Pick

Of course, no “Best Jeep Winch” list would be complete without a Warn model somewhere. Behold the Warn Zeon Platinum 10—the most feature-loaded and advanced model on this list. In addition to all the usual features like a powerful motor, waterproof construction, and wireless remote control, Warn’s model also offers several technological upgrades designed to make your life easier.

The crux of the Zeon Platinum lies in its avant-garde wireless remote controller unit featuring a digital display monitoring and controlling various important parameters and functions. For instance, you can control the winch’s operation, engage or disengage the clutch, but also monitor your vehicle’s battery level and motor temperature. But that’s not all; you can even pair the remote to various accessories your Jeep might be fitted with, including spotlights, a light bar, or an air compressor.

If you are looking for the ultimate Jeep winch to get you out of trouble, the Warn Zeon Platinum is right up there among the best. It may require you to reach further down your pocket, but there is simply nothing else like it out there.

Highlighted features

• 10,000 lbs. load capacity
• Series wound motor with 3-stage planetary gear set
• Overall dimensions: 27” X 14” X 10”
• Advanced wireless remote controller
• Kit includes a roller fairlead, a hook, and an 80’ wire rope

Pros

• Technologically advanced remote controller
• Ability to pair accessories to remote
• Powerful and sturdy motor
• IP68 waterproof rating
• Limited lifetime mechanical and one-year electrical warranty

Cons

• On the expensive side

What to Consider When Buying Jeep Winches

Maximum load capacity

One of the most important factors to consider when shopping for a Jeep winch is the load capacity or how much weight it is rated to pull. In an ideal world, Jeep winches with a 6,000 lbs. load capacity should be more than sufficient for most applications. But the world is far from perfect, so we have to consider several external factors affecting the winch’s functioning, like the resistance posed by obstacles in your path or uneven surfaces.

You may be tempted to ignore these external factors, but we’re here to tell you what a catastrophic mistake it could be. You see, the electric motors fitted in these winches are pretty sensitive and prone to failure under challenging conditions. Consequently, it is better to keep some reserve capacity and have your motor run comfortably below the maximum limit.

Also, don’t discount the probability that someday you might need to help a fellow off-road enthusiast with a heavier truck than yours. So, as a general rule, look for Jeep winches with a load capacity equal to or higher than 7,000 lbs.—it shouldn’t be a problem as every model mentioned above meet this requirement.

Rope

Another major factor to consider is the quality and material of the rope or cable used. Generally, there are two rope types available for electric Jeep winches: synthetic or steel. We would recommend you synthetic here, even if it means spending a little.

Synthetic ropes are simply lighter and stronger than steel cables. Additionally, a synthetic rope will not store energy under tension, meaning it won’t ricochet uncontrollably in the event of a failure.

Type of motor

Selecting the right motor is crucial if you want your Jeep winch to perform as new even after years of service. There are mainly two motor options available for electric winches: permanent magnet and series-wound motors.

Permanent magnet motors are more energy-efficient and consequently won’t drain your battery as quickly but are also prone to overheating, resulting in damage to the magnets and, ultimately, winch failure. Meanwhile, series-wound motors are expensive and need more power to run but are definitely more reliable in the long term.

If you do not use your winch that often, go for a permanent magnet type but be very careful not to overload it. However, hardcore off-roaders would greatly benefit from the reliability and brute force offered by a series-wound motor.

External appearance

Admittedly, how a winch looks should not be a priority for any prospective buyer. Still, there is no harm in considering it if all other critical parameters have been satisfied. Of course, you must first determine if the winch will be either in part or fully visible when installed on your Jeep. If the answer to that question is yes, go with an aesthetically pleasing winch to go with your Jeep’s exterior. And if the answer is no, save yourself a few bucks and go for a more sedate one instead.

FAQs

Does my electric Jeep winch require any special care or maintenance?

Like any other piece of specialized equipment, a winch also requires some maintenance and upkeep. In most cases, this includes extremely basic tasks like periodically checking the winch rope for cracks or other defects and testing the motor, among other things.

However, critical components like the motor or gearbox sets require little to no maintenance as they come sealed and lubricated from the factory. So, unless your winch spends a sizeable amount of time submerged in muddy water, you don’t have much to worry about. Still, if you subject it to harsh conditions, it won’t hurt to take your winch to an expert mechanic once in a while to make sure everything is fine and dandy.

How important is a wireless remote controller?

A wireless remote controller can make a world of difference under certain circumstances. Namely, it allows for a level of flexibility and convenience unmatched by wired controllers. With a wireless remote, you can safely operate the winch from afar and stay out of harm’s way in case anything goes wrong. Moreover, certain wireless remotes also provide you with critical information like battery voltage level, load on the motor, and much more.

Do I need to purchase any accessories separately?

In most cases, your brand new electric Jeep winch will come with everything you need to hit the trails: a central winch unit, a fixed or movable solenoid unit, a fairlead, a clevis hook, a rope or cable, a remote controller, battery connection wires, and all the necessary installation hardware.

Of course, you can still choose to buy other accessories like safety gloves, a winch cover, a snatch block for additional pulling power, a winch damper for safety, and several straps to securely hook it up to surrounding objects.

Verdict

We hope this article helps you make an informed decision regarding the best Jeep winch for your specific needs. As always, there is no clear winner here, as we have included only the best products we could find. Each Jeep winch is perfect for different uses and is excellent at what it does.

However, if we had to single out a model suited for a wide range of applications, it would be the Superwinch SX12. Its magnificent looks, combined with the powerful and reliable motor, make for an exceptional overall package—you just can’t go wrong with this one!