8 Best AC Winches 2025 in the United States

The Dutton-Lainson StrongArm 120V AC Electric Winch is a solid choice for those needing a reliable winch for horizontal pulling tasks, such as pulling boats onto trailers or moving heavy loads in fixed or indoor settings. It offers a 2,700-pound single-line capacity and 4,000 pounds when doubled, which suits moderate to heavy jobs but may not be enough for extremely heavy-duty tasks. Powered by a standard 120V outlet, it’s easy to set up without specialized power sources, making it convenient for home or workshop use. The 50-foot galvanized aircraft cable is durable, providing good reach and lasting strength. Control is straightforward with a handheld remote featuring a 10-foot cord, allowing precise operation, and safety features like an automatic friction brake and freewheeling clutch add peace of mind during use.

The winch has a limited 3-minute continuous run time followed by a 15-minute cool-down, which might slow down work if you have many pulls to make. Also, since it’s designed mainly for horizontal pulling, it might not be suitable for vertical lifts or off-road recovery. Weighing about 33.6 pounds and made in the USA, it balances portability with durability.

If you want a dependable electric winch for moderate pulling jobs with easy controls and safety features, this model is worth considering.

The WARN 885000 PullzAll is a portable electric winch designed for light to moderate pulling tasks, with a maximum load capacity of 1,000 pounds (1/2 ton). This makes it suitable for various applications, such as vehicle recovery or light lifting tasks. The winch operates on a standard 120V AC power source, which means it can be easily used in many settings, including garages and workshops.

Its compact size and 20-pound weight contribute to its portability and ease of use, while the steel cable ensures durability and reliability in different conditions. The no-load line speed of 13.8 feet per minute (fpm) is decent for a winch of this capacity, indicating it can perform tasks relatively quickly without compromising on safety. The variable speed control trigger and electronic load limiter with an LED indicator are beneficial features that enhance user control and safety during operations.

However, it is important to note that this winch is designed for specific vehicle types, which might limit its versatility for some users. Additionally, while it replaces traditional come-a-longs and chain falls, its capacity is limited to 1,000 pounds, which may not be sufficient for heavier-duty tasks. Users looking for a reliable and portable winch for lighter tasks would find the WARN 885000 PullzAll to be a valuable tool. Those needing a winch for more demanding applications might need to consider options with higher load capacities.

The KEEPER Electric Winch 110/120V AC is a solid choice for those needing a winch mainly for garages, workshops, or light vehicles such as ATVs, trucks, and trailers. It offers a respectable 1,500-pound load capacity, making it suitable for many common winching tasks without being overly heavy-duty. The 1.2 HP motor runs efficiently on standard household voltage (120V), which is convenient and saves energy by drawing only 9.2 amps at full load. The 42-foot galvanized steel cable is a good length for most pulling jobs, providing flexibility. User control is straightforward thanks to the handheld remote with a 12-foot cord, allowing easy power-in and power-out operation from a safe distance. Safety features like the mechanical brake and emergency reset switch add peace of mind.

The winch’s three-stage planetary gear with a 262:1 ratio ensures smooth and steady pulling power. Installation is made easier by included mounting hardware. This winch is better suited for lighter to medium jobs and might not be the best fit if very high load capacity or faster line speed is required. Its weight of about 25 pounds makes it portable but not ultra-light. For those seeking a reliable, easy-to-use AC-powered winch for everyday use on smaller vehicles or trailers, this model performs well, combining durability, safety, and convenience.