The 5 Best ATV Winches In 2023
Are you looking for the best ATV winches of 2023? It will not be easy to find an appropriate choice when faced with a multitude of options. I understand your struggle and am here to help. After doing a lot of research and thinking, I’ve come up with a list of the top 5 ATV winches that work well, last a long time, are easy to use, and are at a great price.
Not only will these products work effectively, but they also look great! Keep reading below to learn more about how each product stands out from competitors and make an informed buying decision.
What are the best ATV winches?
When you’re out on the trails with your ATV, having a winch can be a lifesaver. A winch allows you to pull your vehicle up steep inclines, through mud, and over rocks without having to rely on another vehicle or person for help.
Choosing the right ATV winch is not as easy as it may seem. With so many different types and brands available, it can be hard to know which one is best for your needs. To help simplify this process, we’ve put together a guide to finding the best ATV winches for you and your off-roading adventures!
1. Badland ZXR 3500
Overview
The Badland ZXR 3500 winch is a durable and reliable tool designed for off-road enthusiasts. With a powerful 3,500 lb. pulling capacity and 50 feet of heavy-duty steel cable, it can handle tough jobs. The winch also has automatic brakes that hold the load and a remote control to make it safe and easy to use. Its compact size and easy installation make it a great addition to any vehicle.
Top Features
- 3500 lbs of pulling power
- Comes with a 50 feet synthetic rope that is durable and resistant to abrasion
- Equipped with a powerful 1.6 horsepower motor that is efficient and reliable
- Includes a wireless remote control that allows you to operate the winch from a safe distance
- Features a dynamic brake that provides excellent control when winching and prevents the rope from slipping
- Designed with waterproof and dustproof housing, making it suitable for use in all weather conditions
- Compact and lightweight, making it easy to install and transport
Pricing
Priced at $299, the Badland ZXR 3500 is a reliable and powerful winch that can handle heavy loads and tough situations. It can pull up to 3,500 pounds and has a three-stage planetary gear system that makes it easy and quick to winch. The winch also includes a wireless remote control for convenience and safety.
My Take
Badland’s ZXR 3500 Winch is best suited for ATV riders who require a reliable and powerful winch for their vehicles. Off-roading experts say that the Badland ZXR 3500 Winch is one of the best ATV winches you can buy because of how much it can pull, how sturdy it is, and how easy it is to use.
2. Superwinch LT2000 12v DC ATV Winch
Overview
The Superwinch LT2000 is a great choice for people who want a reliable utility/multi-purpose winch. It can pull up to 2,000 pounds with precise control and reliable performance. Easily operated via a handheld wired remote or free-spooling pull-and-turn clutch mechanism – this model has been perfected over years to guarantee durable results every time.
Top Features
- 2,000 lbs rated line pull for light-duty applications
- 12-volt DC motor for efficient and reliable performance
- Dynamic brake for secure holding of load
- Heavy-duty clevis pinned latch hook for safe attachment of the load
- 49 feet of 5/32-inch wire rope for extended reach
- Sealed solenoid for protection against weather and dust
- Handheld remote control for convenient operation
- 1.2 horsepower permanent magnet motor for high torque and power output
Pricing
The Superwinch LT2000 12V DC ATV Winch is a dependable and robust winch, ideal for those seeking a reliable off-road recovery tool. Its tough build can handle challenging situations and pull vehicles out of sticky spots. The winch’s easy installation makes it an excellent choice for both seasoned and novice off-roaders. Priced at $108.99, it is an affordable option compared to other winches on the market and a great value for its features.
My Take
The Superwinch LT2000 12V DC ATV Winch is ideal for ATVs and small trailers, with a 2,000-lb capacity and a dynamic brake for load control. Its lightweight design makes it easy to mount, and it comes with a remote control and roller handle for safe and easy use. Overall, this is one of the best ATV winches on the market today, and there’s no better investment for your ATV than this.
3. Warn Axon 35-S
Overview
The Warn Axon 35-S is a durable and powerful winch with a 3,500-pound capacity, which is ideal for off-road enthusiasts and professional operators. First, it has a digital control system, a synthetic rope, and a brake that holds the load automatically. Also, it boasts a sleek design with a black powder-coated finish and aluminum construction. Lastly, it is a reliable and versatile winch suitable for various applications.
Top Features
- 3,500 lb. capacity
- Synthetic rope
- 50′ of 7/32″ diameter rope
- Fully sealed motor and drivetrain
- All-metal construction
- Black powder-coated finish
- Dynamic Brake Control
- Digital control system with load indicator
- Wired and wireless remote controls
- Limited lifetime warranty
Pricing
The Warn Axon 35-S is a powerful and reliable winch priced at $699.99, suitable for a range of off-road vehicles with a 3,500-lb capacity. The digital control system and wireless remote make it easy to use and safe, and the synthetic rope makes sure that it will last and be strong. It’s an essential tool for off-road riders who demand top-notch performance and reliability.
My Take
The Warn Axon 35-S is best suited for side-by-sides and small 4×4 vehicles that require a dependable and powerful winch for their adventures in challenging terrain. It is a top choice for demanding off-road applications because it has high-tech features like a digital control system and a strong build.
4. KFI SE35 ATV Series
The KFI Winch 3500-lb ATV Series provides superior performance in tough conditions. It’s completely waterproof and corrosion-resistant and comes with a high-strength synthetic rope for powerful pulling power. Also, the dynamic mechanical braking system makes it safe to use and operate, and the four-hole mounting design makes it easy to set up. With this winch, you’ll be prepared to tackle any trail or terrain.
Top Features
- Rated line pull capacity of up to 3,500 lbs.
- Synthetic rope for high strength and durability
- IP68-rated waterproof construction for all-weather use
- Automatic load-holding brake for reliable control and safety
- Deluxe handlebar-mounted mini-rocker control switch
- Heavy-duty corded remote switch
Pricing
The KFI Winch 3500-lb ATV Series range in price from around $366, depending on the model and features. While they may be more expensive than some competitors, they offer superior performance and durability, making them a great investment for anyone in need of a reliable winch.
My Take
The KFI Winch 3500-lb ATV Series is best for people who like to go off-road and want a winch that works well and is reliable. They have a lot of pulling power, run smoothly, and are made to handle rough conditions, which makes them a great choice for serious off-roaders.
5. Tusk ATV Winch
Overview
The Tusk ATV Winch is a powerful and reliable winch designed for all-terrain vehicles. With a pulling capacity of up to 3,500 pounds and waterproof construction, it is ideal for off-road adventures. The winch also features a compact design, synthetic rope, and a wireless remote for easy operation, and it comes with all the necessary hardware for installation.
Top Features
- Heavy-duty winch capable of handling loads up to 3,500 pounds
- Powerful 1.6 horsepower motor
- wireless remote control
- 50-foot steel cable (synthetic rope option available)
- Compact design for easy mounting on a variety of vehicles
- Automatic load-holding brake
- Easy to install with comprehensive instruction manual.
Pricing
The Tusk ATV Winch is a rugged and reliable accessory for ATV and UTV users. With a 3,500-pound capacity and waterproof design, it can handle tough terrains and heavy loads. Priced at just $199.99, it’s an excellent value for its quality and performance.
My Take
The Tusk ATV Winch is best for people who like to go off-road and need reliable and effective pulling power. It is ideal for pulling heavy loads and getting out of tough situations. It offers exceptional performance, durability, and value for its price point, making it a top pick for ATV and UTV winching needs.
What are the 3 types of winches?
The three types of winches are electric, hydraulic, and mechanical. Electric winches are powered by an electric motor and are typically used for light- to medium-duty applications. Hydraulic winches are powered by a hydraulic system that uses the force of fluid pressure to move the winch. These winches are typically used for heavy-duty applications.
Lastly, mechanical winches are pulled by a person using a lever to pull the cable in, which is also known as a come-along. These winches are typically used for light-duty applications or where there is no power source available.
What is the best winch size?
The best winch size depends on the weight of the load being pulled and the intended use of the winch. A general rule of thumb is to choose a winch with a weight capacity of at least 1.5 times the weight of the load. For example, a 4,000-pound winch would be appropriate for pulling a 2,500-pound vehicle.
What winch cable is best for ATVs?
When it comes to choosing a winch cable for your ATV, the best option is a synthetic winch rope. Unlike steel cables, synthetic ropes are lightweight, easier to handle, and won’t kink or rust. They are less likely to cause injury if they snap under tension. Look for a rope made of high-strength synthetic fibers with a diameter appropriate for your ATV’s winch capacity.
You can also refer to this ATV Winch Buyer’s Guide to further help you in choosing the best winch cable is best for your ATV.
What other items should I need to buy aside from winch cables?
Aside from winch cables, a high-quality ATV tire should be your next purchase. It’s because no matter how hard you pull on a winch cable, if the tires doesn’t grip well, you can’t still pull out your ATV in deep mud situations. It’s also best to know how to read ATV tires so you’re ready if you need to buy one.
This is also a good time to upgrade your current helmet to the best ATV helmets in 2023 to keep your head safe in these kind of situations. If you’re interested, I’ve rounded some essential ATV riding tips and gears to help you optimize your ATV journey. You can also apply these riding tips in case you have an overland vehicle instead of an ATV.
Wrap up
When it comes to choosing the best ATV winches, there are several factors to consider such as power rating, cable type, and pricing. The KFI Winch 3500-lb ATV Series offers superior performance and durability for a slightly higher price point whereas the Tusk ATV Winch is an excellent value for its quality and performance.
Ultimately, your choice should be based on your individual needs – whether you need more pulling capacity or waterproof construction – so take some time to research which one best suits your off-roading requirements.
