Best Portable Electric 12V Winch In 2023 Review & Guide

Our Top Pick

AFFORDABLE

ZEAK 13000 lb

  • Motor:  12V DC Series Wound
  • Rope Material: Synthetic
  • Clutch Type: Free Spooling

PREMIUM

Suitable for small vehicles

  • Control: Remote switch
  • Weight: ‎56.9 pounds
  • Gear train: 3-stage planetary
  • Braking: automatic load-holding brake

RECOMMENDED

BOAR 4500-lb

  • Braking Action: Mechanical brake
  • 12v DC Motor Consists

Off-road lovers often face hurdles among the stubborn stone blocks, in the deep deserts, or the form of the Quagmire. These situations call for the help of winches because nobody can retain the passion of off-road lovers. While shopping for electric winches, the versatility eventually confuses many people, causing a daunting task for them.

If you plan to buy a winch, you have come to the right site. Here we will show you 12 volt winch reviews elaborating all their features and pros and cons. Please allow yourself to read the user guide before deciding on the winch. Dig in to know about the best portable 12 volt winch.

Before Buying Check it Out These Point’s

Finding the best portable 12 volt winch to use at home, on the road, or in a field is not an easy job. It takes hours of research and considering essential needs for the nature of work you will perform. We got you all covered here. Kindly consider all the mentioned factors below before buying portable winches.

  • Pulling Capacity: Pulling capacity is the foremost thing to consider while buying the best electric winch for your personal use or your construction site. Pulling capacity is the amount of weight a winch can shoulder. Remember that pulling capacity must be 1.5 times more than the vehicle’s weight to give it the best support.
  • Line Speeds: Line speed is the speed at which a compact winch requires to wind its cable around the drum depending upon the load it is dealing. However, sometimes the power-consuming speeds are different from the speed of the line needed, so you have to put a little effort to achieve the desired line speed. Please always keep safe methods to avoid overexerting issues with the vehicle’s battery.
  • Mounting System: The best portable truck winch in your garage requires a winch with an excellent mounting system. Best mounting systems increase the possibilities to grow to Bolt your electric winch to your larger or smaller vehicle at ease. Don’t forget to check the mounting system material before buying it because heavy-duty material prevents any damage to the rope of the winches during work.
  • Performance and Longevity: Usefulness and strength are the main factors to consider before buying any winch. It is a safe option to go for that winch which works for a long time and never disappoints in terms of work. Take it easy and do all the research on the model you will purchase because you are the boss!.
  • Easy to Use: A best electric winch is one of those which are easy to handle. There are a lot of tasks like pulling a boat onto a trailer, loading or unloading heavy cargo from the flatbed truck, snowmobiles, and whatnot. If your winch shows complicated workings, then it is a complete disappointment. Moreover, please look for the winch, which has a corded remote control, to be aware of the progress at pulling.

Comparesion Table:

Design

Product

Features

Price

  • Weight: 90.8 pounds.
  • Pulling capacity: 12000 pounds.
  • Voltage: 12v.
  • Weight: 78.0 lbs. (35.0 k).
  • Mounting bolt pattern: 10.0 ” x 4.5 “.
  • Gear Train: 3-Stage Planetary.
  • Weight: 58 pounds.
  • Pulling Capacity: 13000 pounds.
  • Rope Material: Synthetic.
  • Weight: 50 pounds.
  • Pulling capacity: 5000 pounds.
  • Rope: 1/4″ x 60′ steel rope.
  •  Weight: ‎56.9 pounds
  • Pulling capacity: 10000 pounds.
  • Control: remote switch.
  •  Weight: 74.8 pounds.
  • Rated line pull(single line): 12000 lbs. (5443 kg)
  • Braking Action: Automatic in the drum
  •  Weight: ‎19.26 pounds
  • Pull capacity (Single Line): 4000LBS(1814KG)
  • Material: Stainless Steel, Iron
  • Weight: ‎27.4 pounds
  • Pulling Capacity: 4500 pounds.
  • Braking Action: Mechanical brake

Best Portable 12V Winch – Detailed Reviewed

Easy installation, waterproof IP68-rated counterparts, and high-performing Albright contractors are the signature features of portable warn winch. I have personally used it for pulling 2-3 cars daily, and it never disappoints me. Moreover, its steel cable is entirely reliable as it works wonders under pressure with a faster-pulling speed.

Auto-control is possible due to control packs if you wish to relocate the lower profile installation instantly. Additionally, you can enjoy 2 in 1 option because the remote control allows both wired and wireless movements.

Features:

  • Powerful motor: WARN 103254 Electric 12V DC Winch powerful series wound motor and planetary gear train are compatible with faster line speed under load withdrawn lower amp.
  • Two-in-one remote: Warn never fails to impress. It has bought a two-in-one remote and wired and wireless features to add unique versatility and ease.
  • Waterproof: This portable truck winch has a large cast aluminum tie plate at the bottom to provide brilliant strength. All the counterparts are constructed with IP68-rated waterproof material to avoid water damage.
  • Albright Contactor: High-performance Albright contactor is responsible for delivering maximum reliability. You can find it under the control pack, which you can quickly relocate for low-profile installations.
  • Tried and Test: All the parts of warn portable winch are tried and tested before sending them to their customers, and it does come with an easy installation guide.

Reasons to Buy

  • Easy to set up.
  • 3-stage planetary gear train.
  • Wide mounting base.
  • Strong and durable.
  • Steel cable has a long lifespan.

Reasons to Avoid

  • Long working day can lead to burnt issues.
  • Pricey.

Key Features

  • Weight: 78.0 lbs. (35.0 k).
  • Dimensions: 20.88″ (L) x 6.3″ (W) x 7.4″ (H).
  • Gear Ratio: 161.28:1.
  • Mounting bolt pattern: 10.0 ” x 4.5 “.
  • Drum size: Diameter 2.5″ (63.5mm).
  • Brake: Automatic In-Drum.
  • Cable size: 94′ Length 5/16″ Diameter.
  • Rated line Pull (single): 9,500Lbs (4,309kgs).
  • Motor: 6.6hp Series Wound.
  • Control switch: Remote Switch, 12′ (3.7m) lead.
  • Gear Train: 3-Stage Planetary.

I have used this portable winch 12v for extracting pickups, average frame rigs, and extracting jeeps. Thanks to its solid mounting base, I have been pulling some weed trees with great ease. Its waterproof entire IP67 steel cable prevents any water damage.

Gen 2 XRC winch by Smittybilt has a built-in automatic in-drum integrated brake which eventually reduces damage to the vehicle’s motors. Last but not least, the sliding gear of this best portable 12 volt winch encourages the natural rope rolling by the remote.

Features:

  • Solid and fast: Smittybilt GEN 2 XRC winch has a strong horsepower motor of 6.6 along with a 3-stage planetary gear system for easy and quick working.
  • Automatic in-drum brake: For safety purposes, this portable winch 12v has mechanical in-drum brakes.
  • Easy Installation: A little technical knowledge is needed to install the Smittybilt GEN 2 XRC Winch easily. Moreover, it comes with all the required supplied wires with it.
  • Waterproof: To avoid any damage due to water, the Smittybilt GEN 2 XRC winch is designed explicitly with an entire IP67 steel cable, so you can work carelessly without getting worried about the damage.
  • Strong pulling capacity: This best portable 12 volt winch have a pulling power of around 9500 pounds which eventually works best for a portable truck winch.

Reasons to Buy

  • Built from waterproof materials.
  • Perform well and are long-lasting.
  • The installation guide and wires are included.
  • Draw a high solenoid motor.
  • Boosts pulling power by improving compatibility.

Reasons to Avoid

  • When mounting heavy pieces, they may crack.
  • Quite expensive.

Key Features

  • Weight: 58 pounds.
  • Dimensions: 21.54×6.3×9.76.
  • Pulling Capacity: 13000 pounds.
  • Horsepower (hp): 6.
  • Motor:  12V DC Series Wound.
  • Gear Ratio:  236:1.
  • Rope Size: 3/8 (in.) × 86 (ft.)
  • Rope Material: Synthetic.
  • Gear Train System: 3-Stage Planetary.
  • Clutch Type: Free Spooling.
  • No Load Line Speed (ft/min): 16.
  • Full Load Line Speed (ft/min): 5.

Buying ZEAK premium electric winch 12v was such a great surprise for me. It came as a box filled with all the required accessories, including electric winch, hawse fairlead, control box, mounting bolts, clevis hook, battery leads, handle remote and wireless remote.

ZEAK contributes to providing quality products for its consumers. Although it came with easy installation steps, the company suggests you take professional guidelines while winch assembling because wrong wiring will lead to a short circuit.

Features:

  • Great pulling capacity: ZEAK premium electric 12v winch has a pulling power of 13000 pounds which helps you to winch out your SUV, jeep Wrangler and pickup trucks from the mud holes with great ease.
  • Corrosion Resistant Material: This best portable 12 volt winch is your best friend on rainy days as it has an IP68-rated waterproof and corrosion-resistant finish.
  • Tool Kit: Along with an electric winch, the toolset includes hawse fairlead, control box, mounting bolts, clevis hook, battery leads, handle remote, wireless remote.
  • Easy Installation: ZEAK premium electric winch 12v comes with a complete installation guide. However, it is ideal to consult a professional to avoid wrong wiring.
  • Heavy-duty motor: 6HP/4.5KW series electric motor along with the aid of 3-stage planetary steel gear will help you winch your jeep from the road no matter how muddy the road will be.

Reasons to Buy

  • Budget-friendly.
  • IP68 waterproof rated.
  • It comes with several tools.
  • Heavy-duty power cables included.
  • Heavy-duty power cables included.

Reasons to Avoid

  • It is loud when it works.
  • Not well assembled

Key Features

  • Weight: 50 pounds.
  • Dimensions: ‎19 x 11 x 9 inches.
  • Pulling capacity: 5000 pounds.
  • Switch: Remote with 12′ lead.
  • Motor: 1.9 hp Permanent Magnet.
  • Power: 12V DC.
  • Geartrain: 3-stage planetary.
  • Gear Ratio: 216:1.
  • Clutch: Lever – multi-directional.
  • Brake: Dynamic and mechanical braking.
  • Rope: 1/4″ x 60′ steel rope.
  • Fairlead: Hawse.
  • Mounting pattern: 4 holes.

Its durable DC motor is worth the trust. I have used this Warn portable winch to pull my small car from the truck in no time with great ease. Its dynamic brakes provide excellent services and convince me enough to buy another warn for my work purposes. The bad thing is that it lacks waterproof material.

WARN 99963 5000 DC Series 12V Electric Winch has a permanent magnetic DC motor available in very few best portable 12 volt winches. 1.9 HP permanent motor, 3-stage planetary gear system and mechanical braking make it worth a shot.

Features:

  • Boast mode: The WARN 99963 5000 DC Series 12V Electric winch is always ready to perform all the rough tasks any other electric winch doesn’t want to tackle.
  • Strong wire rope: Warn portable winch has a 60 feet steel rope with an incredibly great 3-stage planetary gear train to help move the load without anybody’s help.
  • Compact Winch: This lightweight electric winch consists of only 50 pounds, making it compact and travel-friendly.
  • Dynamic brakes: Warn consists of both dynamic and mechanical brakes. So, if you are seeking to achieve excellent control and retention, then this winch is for you.
  • Small size, a greater power: It is compatible to pull around 5000 pounds with the aid of only 12v. Moreover, the powerful 1.9 horsepower permanent magnet dc motor is remarkable.

Reasons to Buy

  • Quite resilient.
  • Mechanic and dynamic brakes.
  • Compact winch.
  • Strong 1.5HP permanent dc motor.
  • Remarkable pulling capacity of around 5000lbs.

Reasons to Avoid

  • No water-resistant feature.
  • Quality at a slight cost.

Key Features

  • Weight: ‎56.9 pounds
  • Dimensions: 20.8 x 10.2 x 6.5 inches
  • Pulling capacity: 10000 pounds.
  • Motor: 5.6HP/4.2KW, series wound.
  • Control: remote switch.
  • Gear train: 3-stage planetary.
  • Gear reduction ratio: 256:1.
  • Braking: automatic load-holding brake.
  • Drum size: 2.5 diameters.
  • Cable: 3/8 (9.5mm)X78.7’(24m).

I have used it to winch a few vehicles, and it has done great work. Moreover, its Dyneema rope is highly reliable. My last winch had steel cable, but I don’t think I will trust any other winch after using Dyneema rope.

X-Bull has carefully designed all the winches with a waterproof IP67 rating. The wireless remote makes it worth the shot. Powerful 5.6HP/4.2KW motor and three-stage planetary are the perfect combos to provide faster linear speed with lower ampere traction under load.

Features:

  • Water-resisting: This portable winch comes with an IP68-rated waterproof feature. Its 500AMP solenoid valve is compatible to work even in extreme weather conditions.
  • Strong pulling is ideal for two-door jeeps and light SUVs if you prefer daily winch pulling. Built with synthetic Dyneema rope can pull about 10000 pounds with ease.
  • Dyneema Rope: X-BULL 12V Electric Winch-10000 lb. is made with Dyneema rope is ten times better than steel cable. It shows greater strength, UV protection, chemical resistance, and water-resistant features.
  • Tool kit: On purchasing X-BULL 12V Electric Winch-10000 lb., you will get a Clevis Hook, a set of Bolt’s, a collection of Wire Cables, a control Box, a wireless Remote Controller, a hand Remote Controller and a user manual.
  • Forged gearing: This portable winch uses forged steel instead of stamped steel, which pulls more load faster.

Reasons to Buy

  • Forge gearing is impressive.
  • High performance and longevity.
  • Dyneema rope instead of steel cable.
  • Waterproof material with an IP68 rating.
  • Pulling capacity is 100,000 pounds.

Reasons to Avoid

  • Not suitable for pickup trucks.
  • An expensive option.

Key Features

  • Weight: 74.8 pounds.
  • Dimensions: 61*36*26 cm (24*14*10 inch)
  • Motor Power: 4.5kw, 12V
  • Rated line pull(single line): 12000 lbs. (5443 kg)
  • Cable Steel: 85ft (26m) Cable Diameter: 3/8“ inches (9.5mm)
  • Drum Diameter / Length: 2.5“ inches / 9” inches (6.73 cm / 23 cm)
  • Rope Material: Cable Steel
  • Gear Ratio: 265:1
  • Gear System: 3 Stage Planetary Gear System
  • Free Spooling Clutch: Sliding ring gear
  • Braking Action: Automatic in the drum
  • Fairlead: 4-way Roller Duty Cycle: Intermittent

This best portable 12v electric winch comes with an 85feet steel cable which is well-known for its hardness. In my personal opinion, it has done quite a reliable job when I have used it to pull trees. Thanks to its 6.6hp motor, it has helped me remove my SUV with great ease without making me worried about it.

A wireless remote control is available to avoid any potential damage during the use of a winch. Lastly, it comes with all the essential tools. VEVOR has a team of professionals always ready to answer all your questions.

Features:

  • Durable material: VEVOR Truck Winch 12000lbs Electric Winch consists of a black powder-coated finish with stainless steel fastener with a waterproof IP67 rating to avoid any risk of corrosion.
  • Strong steel cable: This portable truck winch has 85 feet long steel cable and a dynamic braking system to enhance the efficiency of the winch during work.
  • Powerful motor: Best portable 12v electric winch consists of a powerful 6.6hp engine. Its lightning-fast line speed pulls the vehicle in a couple of minutes.
  • Lesser noise: The VEVOR portable truck makes less noise and can lift around 12000 pounds.
  • Wireless remote control kit: Here, VEVOR gives you an edge to control it from quite a distance to avoid any potential damages while using a wireless remote control kit.

Reasons to Buy

  • Solid construction.
  • Steel cables with greater strength.
  • Powerful Motor.
  • Wireless Remote Control.
  • Performs well over time.

Reasons to Avoid

  • Battery damage may occur.
  • This is Bad Online support is unavailable.

Key Features

  • Weight: ‎19.26 pounds
  • Dimensions: ‎13.7 x 8.6 x 5.9 inches
  • Pull capacity (Single Line): 4000LBS(1814KG)
  • Placement on Vehicle: Front
  • Line Diameter: 0.18in(4.7mm)
  • Rope Length: 32.8ft(10m)
  • Rope Material: Steel
  • Fairlead Type: 4-Way roller
  • Gear Ratio: 158:1
  • Gear Train: 3 Stage Planetary Gear
  • Material: Stainless Steel, Iron
  • Motor:  2.0HP(1.5KW) permanent magnet
  • Waterproof Rating: IP68
  • Brake:   Automatic Out-Of-Drum

This best drill winch is completely IP68-rated waterproof. Additionally, its motor has a pure coat with copper and a 12v dc motor compatible with 2HP. The best thing about this compact winch is its good conductivity and heat dissipation effect to give robust and durable experiences.

From my personal experience, it is incredibly significant to have a lightweight electric winch in my home garage. A slight drawback is that it has lesser horsepower than other listed 12v electric winches. But overall, it is an excellent choice to make.

Features:

  • Get Rid of The Quagmire: Now, winch your car out from the deep Quagmire effortlessly with the robust CXRCY 12V 4000 pounds Electric Winch Kits.
  • Waterproof:  CXRCY 12V 4000 pounds Electric Winch Kits is completely IP68 waterproofed to provide its best services on rainy days or muddy roads.
  • Dual remote control mode: This portable wireless electric winch came with dual remote control mode along with 25 meters of wireless control and an upgraded steel wire rope which is ten times stronger than traditional ones.
  • Copper motor with supper speed: This best 12v portable winch has a pure copper motor that promotes good conductivity and aids heat dissipation. Moreover, its 12v dc motor comes with 2HP power.
  • Accessory kit: On the purchase of this portable winch, you will be able to get an electric winch along with a wireless remote controller (battery included), one wired remote controller, one control box, a 4-way roller fairlead, a universal mounting plate, user manual, a shackle, and a clevis chain hook.

Reasons to Buy

  • Reinforced and Prevent Rotating Wire Rope.
  • Pure copper-coated motor.
  • Waterproofed.
  • Dual remote control mode.
  • High-quality, long-lasting results.

Reasons to Avoid

  • Pulling capacity is limited to 4000 pounds.
  • Intermittently working remote.

Key Features

  • Weight: ‎27.4 pounds
  • Dimensions: 16.2 x 11.2 x 7.2 inches
  • Pulling Capacity: 4500 pounds.
  • Rated line pull: 4500lb (2045kg)
  • Motor: 1.5kw,2.0HP 12V DC
  • Permanent Magnet Gearing: Differential Planetary
  • Gear ratio: 198:1
  • Braking Action: Mechanical brake
  • Wire Rope: 5.5mm*15m 7/32″X 50′
  • Bolts pattern: 124 X 76mm

It has been clear that it is primarily suitable for lightweight cars. Among all the affordable options for portable electric winches, this 12v electric winch fits best in budget. Off-road boar electric winch never compromised the quality, so you will find the budget-friendly but of good quality.

I always wanted to have a compact winch for my personal use. Thankfully, I am pretty satisfied with my purchase. It is easy to travel around and has a 49-foot synthetic rope that will adapt to any circumstance.

Features:

  • Lightweight Electric winch: OFF-ROAD BOAR is a compact winch consisting of only 27.4 pounds and is easy to carry around.
  • Safe & Long Lasting: This best 12v electric winch is IP68-rated waterproof construction which eventually protects the motor from rain and moisture.
  • Dual Control Mode: OFF-ROAD BOAR Synthetic Rope ATV/UTV Winch 4500lbs offers dual remote control mode, including wireless remote control and a wired control switch.
  • Suitable for small vehicles: 12v dc motor consists of 2 HP. It has a pulling capacity of around 4500 pounds which is a perfect match for small cars.
  • Synthetic Rope: This portable electric winch has a 1.5-inch thick synthetic rope to create considerable surface tension. Moreover, it is connected with a heavy-duty hook to promote more strength.

Reasons to Buy

  • Waterproof and works well in every weather.
  • Fits various small vehicles.
  • Comes with a solid synthetic rope.
  • Strong hook and clutch.
  • Cheaper than comparable products.

Reasons to Avoid

  • For small vehicles only.
  • Reduced pulling capacity.

Conclusion:

You have reached the end of this article. We have listed top-notch portable electric winches for your help. Let us now make it a little bit easier for you by picking the top 3 electric winches from our list.

  • WARN 103254 Electric 12V DC Winch has impressive features from waterproofed construction Albright contactor and two-in-one remote is beyond imagination.
  • VEVOR Truck Winch 12000lbs Electric Winch is a budget-friendly option containing quality features. It is compatible to be used at a wide range of applications.

FAQ’s

1. What maintenance is required to keep an electric winch last longer?

If you want to keep your electric winch with you for a long time, you must do preventative maintenance from time to time. Maintenance includes lubricating all the grease points, checking all the electrical connections, and inspecting your winch’s bolts and cables.

Moreover, please ensure that no worn coatings or corrosion on electrical connections and that all the links are tight. Don’t forget to replace all the damaged and worn cables. Lastly, check for wear, broken strands, and all the flat spots on the rope of your winch.

2. How can I double my winch capacity?

To double the capacity of your winch, then please consider the following tips to improve the effectiveness of your winch.

  • Try using a snatch block.
  • Avoid using the maximum speed of your winch because half of it is enough in most cases.
  • Find an anchor which helps in pulling along the direct line of the center of the rollers.

3. How to Choose the Right Electric Winch Size?

Choosing the right electric winch size is quite a critical question. It depends upon your regular or occasional winch capacity. Please consider a few rules of thumb while selecting the right electric winch size. Before buying the best drill winch, make sure to calculate the weight of your vehicle; after calculating weight, multiple it with 1.5. Consider the lowest loading capacity and remember that weight may differ from the specific or declared capacity.

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