Best Towing Winches of 2026

David Davis Avatar
David Davis
Last Updated: Jan 21, 2026

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Towing winches are powerful tools that can be used to pull heavy loads with ease. These winches are commonly used in a variety of industries, including construction, transportation, and mining. They are typically mounted on trucks or other heavy-duty vehicles and can be operated by a remote control. Towing winches come in a range of sizes and capacities, from small winches designed for light-duty towing to large industrial winches capable of pulling thousands of pounds. They are an essential piece of equipment for anyone who needs to move heavy objects safely and efficiently.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

NEIKO 02256A Come Along Winch, 5-Ton Pulling Capacity Cover #TOP 1
NEIKO 02256A Come Along Winch, 5-Ton Pulling Capacity
ftb score rating icon 9.9
OPENROAD Panther Series 3S 13500 lb Winch Cover #TOP 2
OPENROAD Panther Series 3S 13500 lb Winch
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Nilight 3500 lbs 12V ATV Winch with Synthetic Rope Cover #TOP 3
Nilight 3500 lbs 12V ATV Winch with Synthetic Rope
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Towing Winches

#TOP 1

NEIKO 02256A Come Along Winch, 5-Ton Pulling Capacity

02256A
Clear
5 Ton
NEIKO 02256A Come Along Winch, 5-Ton Pulling Capacity Cover
NEIKO 02256A Come Along Winch, 5-Ton (10,000 Lbs) Pulling Capacity, 10Ft, 3 Hook, Heavy Duty Power Cable Come Along Tool with Dual Gears, Hand Winch Cable, Automotive Hoist Winch Puller, Recovery Gear

The NEIKO 02256A Come Along Winch is a powerful tool with a 5-ton pulling capacity that can handle heavy-duty tasks for construction, farms, ranches, and automotive use. It features a heavy-duty steel winch hook and gears, a ratcheting cable come along system, and a double-gear manual winch for evenly distributed force. The long industrial hand ratchet handle with a PVC coated grip and three latching hooks provide added safety and versatility for off-road vehicle recovery, fence pulling, and log or stump removal.

What We Like
Heavy-duty pulling power
Strong and reliable construction
Versatile for trees and heavy objects
Responsive customer support
Easy to use after practice
What We Don't Like
Cable release mechanism learning curve
Minor parts durability concerns
#TOP 2

OPENROAD Panther Series 3S 13500 lb Winch

PP2PL10012
OPENROAD Panther Series 3S 13500 lb Winch Cover
OPENROAD 13500 lb Recovery Winch with Synthetic Rope and 2 Wireless Remotes - IP68 Waterproof 12V Electric Winch for Jeep, SUV, Truck & Trailer - Panther Series 3S

The OPENROAD Panther Winch is a powerful recovery tool designed to help you tackle tough jobs with ease. It comes with a strong 3/8-inch thick synthetic rope that stretches 85 feet and can handle up to 13,500 pounds, making it great for trucks, SUVs, and trailers. The winch’s durable design includes corrosion-resistant screws, ensuring it lasts through rough conditions. Installation is straightforward, as the winch is mostly assembled—you just need to connect the power and secure it to your vehicle’s bumper or winch bracket. Plus, the package includes everything you need to get started, including two wireless remotes for easy control from a distance.

What We Like
Easy installation process
Strong pulling power
Great price and value
Multiple remote controls included
Good build quality
What We Don't Like
Minor remote button issue
Support response could improve
#TOP 3

Nilight 3500 lbs 12V ATV Winch with Synthetic Rope

3500lb Electric Winch w Synthetic Rope
Black
12V 3500 lbs
Nilight 3500 lbs 12V ATV Winch with Synthetic Rope Cover
Nilight 3500 lbs ATV Winch 12V Electric Winches With Synthetic Winch Rope Wireless Remote Wired Switch Fairlead Mounting Plate Portable Waterproof Winch for Towing ATV UTV Trailer Truck Jeep Offroad

The Nilight 3500 lbs Winch is a powerful tool designed to help you get your ATV or UTV out of tough spots like mud or rough terrain. It features a strong 1.93HP motor that provides reliable pulling power. The synthetic rope is lighter and stronger than steel cables, making it easier for you to handle while offering great durability. With a smart gear system, this winch delivers strong traction efficiently, saving space and working quietly. Its waterproof and corrosion-resistant design means you can trust it to perform well in all kinds of weather, making your outdoor towing tasks smoother and safer.

What We Like
Easy installation
Remote and wired controls
Good build quality
Great value
Comprehensive mounting hardware
What We Don't Like
Short supplied wires
Possible water intrusion
#TOP 4

AC-DK 1600lbs Heavy Duty Boat Trailer Winch

1600LB Blue Winch
AC-DK 1600lbs Heavy Duty Boat Trailer Winch Cover
AC-DK 1600lbs Heavy Duty Boat Trailer Winch with 26FT Strap, 2-Way Ratchet & 4:1 Gear Trailer Winch, Portable Hand Crank Winch for Boat, Truck, Trailer, RV, ATV, Jet Ski

The AC-DK Heavy Duty Winch is designed to make towing easier and safer for you. Its strong 1600 lb capacity and a 26-foot polyester strap help you secure your boat or other heavy items with confidence. The winch is made from high-quality galvanized steel, so it resists rust and damage even in tough weather or saltwater environments. You can easily control the winch with its two-way ratchet system, allowing smooth forward and backward movement for loading and unloading. Plus, the ergonomic 8.6-inch crank handle is shaped for comfort, reducing hand strain during use and ensuring a secure grip for better safety.

What We Like
Strong and durable construction
Easy installation process
Affordable price point
Smooth and powerful gears
Attractive appearance
What We Don't Like
Minor issue with hook clip bending
#TOP 5

AC-DK 2500 lb ATV Synthetic Rope Winch Kit

A-ATV Winch
Orange
AC-DK 2500 lb ATV Synthetic Rope Winch Kit Cover
AC-DK 2500 lb ATV/UTV Winch Synthetic Rope Kits, 12V Winch with Wireless Remote for Off Road Trailer Boat RV Towing Winches, Winch with Mounting Plate and Wired Remote

The AC-DK 2500 Winch is designed to make your towing and off-road recovery tasks easier and more reliable. Its standardized mounting size means you can install it quickly without worrying about compatibility issues. The winch features an improved control box that prevents power issues like loosening or accidental starts, giving you safer and more stable operation. Powered by a strong 12V motor with a high gear ratio, it delivers steady and efficient performance, helping you save time when pulling loads. Plus, the Dyneema synthetic rope is lightweight, water-resistant, and safer than steel cables, reducing risks and lasting longer in wet conditions.

What We Like
Affordable price
Easy installation
Reliable wireless remote
Quiet operation
Versatile usage
What We Don't Like
Minor hardware issues
Occasional durability concerns
#TOP 6

WARN 885000 PullzAll Corded Electric Winch

885000
No Size
WARN 885000 PullzAll Corded Electric Winch Cover
WARN 885000 PullzAll Corded 120V AC Portable Electric Winch with Steel Cable: 1/2 Ton (1,000 Lb) Pulling Capacity , Red

The WARN Electric Winch is a highly durable pulling tool that is easy to use. It is designed to lift or pull up to 1,000 pounds, replacing traditional come-a-longs and chain falls. The no load line speed of 13.8 fpm ensures efficient operation. With a variable speed control trigger and electronic load limiter with LED indicator, this winch maximizes the work one person can do, making it a versatile and efficient tool for various tasks.

What We Like
Strong pulling and lifting power
Portable and lightweight design
Safe, slow and steady operation
Thermal overload protection
Versatile for various heavy tasks
What We Don't Like
Cable length could be longer
Lacks remote or cordless control
#TOP 7

OPENROAD 1600lbs Hand Winch with 10m Cable

HW-1600-C
1600lbs Cable Winch
1600lbs Cable Winch
OPENROAD 1600lbs Hand Winch with 10m Cable Cover
OPENROAD 1600lbs Hand Winch Boat Winch, Hand Crank Winch with 10m (32ft) Cable Manual Winches, Two-Way Adjustable Boat Trailer Winch, Corrosion Resistant Towing Winches (1600lbs)

The OPENROAD Hand Winch offers a strong 1600lbs pulling capacity, making it perfect for moving boats, lawn tools, or heavy items with ease. Its durable steel build and high-quality, corrosion-resistant cable ensure long-lasting use even in tough outdoor conditions. The winch features a two-way ratchet mechanism, allowing you to pull or release the cable smoothly and safely. Plus, the comfortable 8.2-inch handle reduces hand fatigue, so you can operate the winch comfortably for extended periods. This winch combines power, durability, and user-friendly design to help you handle heavy loads more efficiently.

What We Like
Heavy-duty construction
Strong pulling power
High-visibility durable strap
Easy installation
Responsive customer service
What We Don't Like
Handle can be stiff
Lever mechanism could be stronger
#TOP 8

OPENROAD 6000 lbs UTV Electric Winch

6000lb
Black
OPENROAD 6000 lbs UTV Electric Winch Cover
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 6000lb UTV Winch offers a powerful 6000-pound pulling capacity with a strong 2.7HP motor, making it ideal for tough off-road tasks. Its advanced three-stage planetary gear system ensures smooth and reliable winching, even under heavy loads, while the weather-sealed components protect it from harsh conditions. You can easily control the winch with a wireless remote that works up to 50 feet away, giving you convenience and safety during use. Plus, it fits many popular UTV models, so you can count on it to be a versatile and dependable tool on your adventures.

What We Like
High 6000lb pulling capacity
Durable three-stage planetary gears
Weather-sealed for protection
Wireless remote with 50ft range
Wide UTV model compatibility
What We Don't Like
Remote may malfunction
Some wiring length issues
#TOP 9

Jack Boss 600 lbs Hand Winch with 23 ft Steel Cable

AS-600G
Steel
600 lbs
Jack Boss 600 lbs Hand Winch with 23 ft Steel Cable Cover
Jack Boss Hand Winch, 600 lbs Pulling Capacity, Boat Trailer Winch Heavy Duty Rope Crank with 23 FT Steel Cable, Manual Operated Hand Crank Winch for Trailer, Boat or ATV Towing

The Jack Boss Hand Winch offers you a reliable 600 lbs pulling capacity, making it ideal for towing boats, trailers, or ATVs. Its 3.2:1 gear ratio strikes a great balance between strength and speed, so you can easily handle heavy loads without sacrificing control. Installation is straightforward thanks to standard mounting holes and included screws, allowing you to set it up quickly and take it wherever you need. The winch’s compact design adds to its portability, perfect for outdoor adventures. Plus, it's built tough with galvanized steel and heat-treated components, ensuring long-lasting resistance to rust and wear, so you can count on it season after season.

What We Like
600 lbs pulling capacity
Easy installation
Portable and compact design
Durable galvanized steel
Balanced gear ratio
What We Don't Like
Metal durability concerns
Smaller than expected
#TOP 10

VEVOR 13500 lb Electric Truck Winch with Synthetic Rope

13,500 lb Electric Winch, Truck Winch,
13500 lbs
VEVOR 13500 lb Electric Truck Winch with Synthetic Rope Cover
VEVOR 13,500 lb Electric, Truck Winch 12V DC 3/8 in x 80 ft Synthetic Rope Aluminum Fairlead Wireless & Wired Remote Control, 13500 lbs, IP55 Waterproof Towing for Off Road Jeep SUV Boat

The VEVOR 13500 lb Winch is a powerful tool designed to help you recover your SUV or pickup with ease. It offers a strong pulling force of 13,500 lbs, making it ideal for getting out of mud or sand without damaging your gear. The winch features a robust 6.6HP motor and a 3-stage planetary gear system, ensuring steady power and preventing overheating during long use. Its durable synthetic rope resists wear and sunlight, so you can trust it in tough conditions. Plus, the wireless remote control lets you operate the winch safely from a distance, while a wired remote is included for backup in areas with poor signal.

What We Like
Good value for the price
Easy installation
Durable performance
Versatile applications
Solid build quality
What We Don't Like
Poor instructions
Packaging issues
Buying Guide Image

Factors to Consider when Choosing Towing Winches

Load Capacity

One of the most critical factors to consider when choosing a towing winch is its load capacity. Determine the maximum weight you will need to tow and ensure that the winch you choose has a capacity that can handle that weight. It's always better to choose a winch with a slightly higher load capacity to account for any unexpected situations.

Power Source

Towing winches can be powered by either electricity or hydraulic systems. Electric winches are more common and easier to install, but they may drain your vehicle's battery quickly. Hydraulic winches, on the other hand, are more powerful and can handle heavier loads, but they require a hydraulic system in your vehicle.

Line Length and Type

Consider the length of the winch line you will need, depending on the situations you anticipate encountering. Longer lines allow for more flexibility, especially when there are no anchor points nearby. Additionally, assess the type of winch line, such as steel cable or synthetic rope, and choose one that suits your needs in terms of strength, durability, and ease of handling.

Winch Mounting

Ensure that the towing winch you choose is compatible with your vehicle's mounting system. Some winches require specific mounting plates or bumpers, while others can be mounted on a variety of vehicles. Check the winch's specifications and consider any additional mounting hardware that may be required.

Control Options

Consider the control options available for the towing winch. Most winches come with a wired remote control, but some advanced models also offer wireless remote control or even smartphone app control. Choose a control option that you find convenient and easy to use.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is towing winches in ship?

A towing winch is installed on a boat to tow another boat. It provides a large pulling force and operates at a speed of 10m/min. There are two types of towing winches available: electric towing winch and hydraulic towing winch.

2. What size winch do tow trucks use?

The size of winch used on tow trucks depends on the capacity required. Midsize gas-powered trucks typically require a winch strength of 9,000 to 9,500 pounds. Full-size trucks require 12,000 to 12,500 pounds, while larger trucks can go up to 16,500 or even 18,000 pounds.

3. What is the purpose of a towing winch?

A towing winch is a valuable towing equipment that can pull a car or small truck. Its purpose is to either pull a car up into the towing sling or onto the towing platform. It uses a drum to wind wire and maintain steady tension while providing the necessary pulling force.

4. What are the different types of winches on ships?

There are several types of winches used on ships based on their purpose. These include anchor winches, mooring winches, positioning winches, and towing winches. Winches can also be categorized based on drum form, such as single drum, double drum, and three drum winches.

5. How much can an 8000 lb winch pull?

An 8000 lb capacity winch is rated to pull its maximum load when spooling the first layer of rope onto the winch drum. It can pull up to 8000 pounds during this operation.

6. What are the disadvantages of a winch?

Some disadvantages of winches include limitations in long-term use due to vehicle power system constraints and self-heating. Electric winches may have limited driving force and can only apply force in one direction, either pulling forward or pulling back depending on their installation location on the vehicle.

7. Is it worth having a winch on a truck?

Having a winch on a truck can be beneficial, especially if you frequently encounter challenging road conditions or use the truck for work purposes. It can help you get unstuck in situations like snowstorms. However, if you primarily drive on regular roads, the utility of a winch may be limited.

8. What size winch for a 1/2-ton truck?

For a 1/2-ton 4x4 truck, it is recommended to have a winch with a capacity of at least twice the loaded weight of the truck. A 10,000-pound-capacity winch is suitable for a 1/2-ton 4x4 pickup, while a 16,000-pound model is recommended for a 4x4 dually diesel truck. It's generally better to opt for a larger winch if possible.

Editor's Notes

During our towing winch research, we found 24 towing winch products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 54,227 customer reviews through our big data system to write the towing winches list. We found that most customers choose towing winches with an average price of $155.38.

The towing winches are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of towing winches, including NEIKO, OPENROAD, Nilight, AC-DK, WARN. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
David Davis Avatar

David Davis has rich experience as a mechanic and a general repairman in the automotive industry. It has given him plenty of knowledge in automobile repair, auto parts, and all kinds of tools. In his spare time, he enjoys assembling and disassembling parts for cars.