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10 Best Utv Winches 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

OPENROAD 6000 lbs UTV Winch, Waterproof IP67 Electric Trailer 6k Winch with 1/4"×50ft Synthetic Rope,Wireless Remote and Winch Stopper (6000lb with Mounting Plate)

The OPENROAD 6000 lbs UTV Winch is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and powerful winch for off-road vehicles. It offers a strong 6000-pound load capacity suitable for most UTV recovery or towing tasks. The synthetic rope (1/4" thick and 50 feet long) is a good feature since it’s lighter and safer than steel cables. Its 2.0kW permanent magnet motor provides steady power and can start with a low current draw, which is helpful if your vehicle’s battery isn’t very strong. The winch uses a three-stage planetary gear system with a high gear ratio (166:1), which balances pulling power and line speed. You get about 20 feet per minute speed when the winch is not under load, slowing to nearly 3 feet per minute under heavy weight—typical for this class of winch.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,340
Cable Type
Control Options
Mounting System

Most important from
311 reviews

Cable Type
The winch feels well-made and durable, with smooth freewheel release and solid synthetic rope quality.
Control Options
Setup for both wired and wireless remotes is straightforward and intuitive, making installation hassle-free.
Mounting System
Mounting bracket flexibility allows for a clean, OEM-style installation that enhances the overall appearance.
#2
9.7 score

AC-DK 5500 lb ATV/UTV Winch Synthetic Rope Kits, 12V Winch with Wireless Remote for Off Road Trailer Boat RV Towing Winches, Waterproof Winch with Mounting Plate and Wired Remote

The AC-DK 5500 lb ATV/UTV winch is a solid choice for off-road enthusiasts needing a reliable and fairly powerful winch. Its 5500-pound load capacity suits most UTV recovery and towing tasks, making it versatile for vehicles like the YXZ1000R, Maverick, and similar models. The winch uses a high-quality Dyneema synthetic rope, which is light, strong, and safer than traditional steel cables because it reduces the risk of dangerous snapback. The motor is a 12V permanent magnet DC type with 2.7 horsepower, delivering stable power without overheating issues. It features an advanced planetary gear system with a 166:1 ratio, offering decent pulling speed — about 2.1 feet per minute under load and nearly 20 feet per minute unloaded — which helps save time during recovery.

Rating
9.7
Control Options
Mounting System

Most important from
494 reviews

Control Options
The inclusion of a remote control adds significant convenience during use.
Mounting System
Comes complete with everything needed for installation, making setup straightforward.
#3
9.1 score

OPENROAD 4500 lb ATV/UTV Winch,12V Towing Off-Road Electric UTV Winch with 1/4"×50' Synthetic Rope,Wireless Remote and Rubber Stopper (4500lb with Synthetic Rope)

The OPENROAD 4500 lb ATV/UTV Winch offers reliable pulling power suitable for most ATVs and smaller UTVs with its 4500-pound load capacity. It features a 1/4"×50' synthetic rope, which is lighter and safer than traditional steel cables, reducing weight and minimizing injury risk in case of a break. Powered by a 12V permanent magnet DC motor delivering 1.3kW (1.9HP), it provides consistent strength with a reasonable cold start current of 10A, preventing excessive strain on the vehicle’s battery.

Rating
9.1
Cable Type
Control Options
Mounting System

Most important from
311 reviews

Cable Type
The synthetic rope is lightweight, high quality, and safer than traditional steel cables.
Control Options
Comes with two wireless remotes, providing convenient and flexible control options with a good operating range.
Mounting System
Installation is straightforward and the package includes all essential accessories except a mounting plate.

Top 10 Best Utv Winches 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0  score

OPENROAD 6000 lbs UTV Winch, Waterproof IP67 Electric Trailer 6k Winch with 1/4"×50ft Synthetic Rope,Wireless Remote and Winch Stopper (6000lb with Mounting Plate)

Load Capacity: 6000 pounds
Cable Type: synthetic rope, 1/4" thick, 50 ft
Motor Type: 2.0kW permanent magnet motor
Line Speed: 20 ft/min no load, 3 ft/min load
Control Options: wireless remote 50 ft, wired remote
Mounting System: standard hole pattern

Chosen by 1340 this week

SmittyBilt X2O-17.5K WATERPROOF - SB97517

Load Capacity: 17,500 lbs
Cable Type: 98.5 feet, 3/8 inch diameter
Motor Type: 6.6 HP series wound motor
Control Options: wired and wireless remote
Mounting System: 10 x 4.5 inches bolt pattern

SuperATV Bed Winch for a Can Am Defender

Load Capacity: 500lb
Cable Type: rust-resistant synthetic rope
Control Options: wired remote control
Mounting System: powder-coated steel mount

SmittyBilt GEN3 12K SYNTHETIC - SB98812

Load Capacity: 12,000 lbs
Cable Type: Synthetic rope
Motor Type: 7HP series wound motor
Line Speed: fast speed
Control Options: remote, wireless option
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Buying Guide for the Best Utv Winches

When it comes to picking the right UTV winch, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they align with your needs. A UTV winch is a crucial tool for off-road enthusiasts, helping you get out of tough spots, move obstacles, or assist in various tasks. To make an informed decision, you need to consider several factors that will ensure the winch you choose is the best fit for your specific requirements.
Load CapacityLoad capacity, often referred to as the winch's pulling power, is the maximum weight the winch can handle. This is crucial because it determines whether the winch can effectively pull your UTV out of difficult situations. Load capacities are typically measured in pounds. For light-duty tasks, a winch with a capacity of 2,000 to 3,000 pounds may suffice. For medium-duty tasks, look for capacities between 3,000 to 4,500 pounds. Heavy-duty winches, which can handle 4,500 pounds and above, are ideal for larger UTVs or more challenging conditions. To choose the right load capacity, consider the weight of your UTV and any additional gear or cargo you might be carrying.
Cable TypeThe cable type of a winch can either be steel or synthetic. Steel cables are durable, abrasion-resistant, and generally more affordable. They are suitable for rugged terrains where the cable might come into contact with rocks and debris. However, they are heavier and can develop sharp burrs over time. Synthetic cables, on the other hand, are lighter, easier to handle, and safer because they don't store as much kinetic energy, reducing the risk of injury if they snap. They are ideal for users who prioritize ease of use and safety. Choose a cable type based on the terrain you frequently encounter and your handling preferences.
Motor TypeWinch motors come in 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 heavy-duty applications. If you plan to use your winch regularly or in demanding conditions, a series wound motor is the better choice. For occasional, lighter use, a permanent magnet motor will suffice.
Line SpeedLine speed refers to how quickly the winch can reel in the cable. This is important because faster line speeds can save time and reduce the strain on the winch motor. Line speeds are usually measured in feet per minute (FPM). Faster line speeds (20 FPM and above) are beneficial for quick recoveries and frequent use. Slower line speeds (below 20 FPM) are adequate for less frequent use and lighter tasks. Consider how often and how quickly you need to perform winching tasks to determine the appropriate line speed for your needs.
Control OptionsWinches can be controlled using wired or wireless remote controls. Wired controls are reliable and don't require batteries, but they limit your mobility. Wireless controls offer greater flexibility and convenience, allowing you to operate the winch from a distance. Some winches come with both options, providing versatility. If you value convenience and ease of use, a winch with a wireless remote might be the best choice. For those who prefer simplicity and reliability, a wired control will work well.
Mounting SystemThe mounting system determines how the winch is attached to your UTV. It's important to ensure that the winch is compatible with your UTV's mounting points and that it can be securely installed. Some winches come with universal mounting plates, while others may require specific mounting kits. Check your UTV's specifications and choose a winch that offers a compatible and secure mounting solution. This will ensure that the winch is stable and effective during use.

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