We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Boat Winches 2025 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Powerwinch 912 Trailer Winch (40' x 7/32" Cable)

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,183
Load Capacity
Gear Ratio
Cable or Strap Length

Most important from
22 reviews

Load Capacity
Effortlessly pulls heavy boats up steep ramps, even those with a 21ft boat and 200 hp engine.
Gear Ratio
The winch gear stripped during the first use, leading to a frustrating experience of being unable to pull the boat out of the water.
Cable or Strap Length
The winch's cable can bury itself inside the spool under heavy loads, requiring a bit of creativity to unspool.
Material and Durability
Consistently reliable performance without any issues over multiple uses.

The Powerwinch 912 Trailer Winch is an automatic trailer winch designed to make loading your boat onto a trailer a hassle-free experience. One of its key strengths is its ability to pull boats weighing up to 11,500 pounds at a line speed of 8 feet per minute, which is quite impressive for its category. The 40-foot cable length is ample for most trailer setups, and the automatic function with a 12-volt power source simplifies the loading process, requiring just the press of a button for smooth power-in/freewheel-out action.

This winch is built with durability in mind, as suggested by its robust design and materials. However, it is relatively heavy at 34.4 pounds, which might be a consideration for those looking to minimize the weight of their gear. The product comes with a 1-year warranty, offering some peace of mind.

This winch is best suited for boat owners who need reliable and powerful assistance in loading their boats onto trailers, especially those dealing with larger boats.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,183
Load Capacity
Gear Ratio
Cable or Strap Length

Most important from
22 reviews

Load Capacity
Effortlessly pulls heavy boats up steep ramps, even those with a 21ft boat and 200 hp engine.
Gear Ratio
The winch gear stripped during the first use, leading to a frustrating experience of being unable to pull the boat out of the water.
Cable or Strap Length
The winch's cable can bury itself inside the spool under heavy loads, requiring a bit of creativity to unspool.
Material and Durability
Consistently reliable performance without any issues over multiple uses.
#2

Lewmar 12V/700-Watt Pro-Series Gypsy with 316 Stainless Steel for Boats 20'-38' with 1/4" G4 Chain, Max Pull 700 lbs. - 2020201157

Rating
9.4
Material and Durability

Most important from
41 reviews

Material and Durability
The windlass is well-made and prevents binding and slipping on rope and chain rode.

The Lewmar 12V/700-Watt Pro-Series Gypsy windlass stands out as a reliable choice for boaters looking for an efficient anchoring solution for boats ranging from 20 to 38 feet. With a maximum pull capacity of 700 lbs and the ability to handle 1/4" G4 chain, it caters well to users who need a dependable anchoring system. One of its significant strengths is the easy installation process, supported by a comprehensive manual that could appeal to DIY enthusiasts. The windlass also features a powerful motor that boasts a fast line speed of 100 feet per minute, making it practical for quick and efficient anchoring.

Made from 316 stainless steel, this windlass is designed for durability, providing protection against the harsh marine environment. Additionally, the inclusion of a manual emergency system adds a layer of security for users, ensuring that anchoring remains straightforward even in unexpected situations.

While the product weighs nearly 27 pounds, which might be cumbersome for some boaters during installation or transport, the 70 amp circuit breaker and rocker switch are included. Users should ensure their boat's electrical system can accommodate these specifications without any issues. The Lewmar windlass is a strong contender for those seeking a quality anchoring solution that marries efficiency with durability, especially suited for mid-sized boats. Potential buyers should consider their specific needs and ensure compatibility with their vessel's setup.

Rating
9.4
Material and Durability

Most important from
41 reviews

Material and Durability
The windlass is well-made and prevents binding and slipping on rope and chain rode.
#3

X-BULL New 6000LBS IP68 Waterproof Electric Winch Boat Trailer Winch with 2 in 1 Wireless Remote Synthetic Rope 1/4 in x49.8ft Hook Automatic Braking Powersports Off Road

Rating
8.8
Cable or Strap Length
Material and Durability

Most important from
157 reviews

Cable or Strap Length
Despite preferring a wire rope, the synthetic rope provided adequate performance for tough situations.
Material and Durability
The winch performed well in deep mud, successfully pulling out a stuck vehicle without any rope stretching.

The X-BULL New 6000LBS IP68 Waterproof Electric Winch is a robust choice for boat trailers, providing a solid load capacity of 6000 lbs. This makes it suitable for medium to large-sized boats. The winch features both wired and wireless remote controls, offering flexibility depending on your preference or need for precision and convenience. The wireless remote has an impressive range of 100 feet, which is particularly useful when operating from a distance.

The IP68 waterproof rating ensures that the winch performs well even in harsh, wet conditions, adding to its longevity and reliability. The 1/4 inch by 49.8 feet synthetic rope is durable and of a good length for various applications, and the automatic braking system enhances safety during operation. The powerful 12VDC 1.3 HP motor ensures efficient performance, supported by a three-stage planetary gear system with a 210:1 gear ratio, offering dependable strength and smooth operation.

The inclusion of essential accessories like a fairlead, mounting bracket, and extended battery cables make installation and setup straightforward, enhancing user experience. However, the winch may be overkill for smaller boats or less demanding tasks, making it more suitable for heavier-duty needs.

Rating
8.8
Cable or Strap Length
Material and Durability

Most important from
157 reviews

Cable or Strap Length
Despite preferring a wire rope, the synthetic rope provided adequate performance for tough situations.
Material and Durability
The winch performed well in deep mud, successfully pulling out a stuck vehicle without any rope stretching.

Buying Guide for the Best Boat Winches

Choosing the right boat winch is crucial for ensuring safe and efficient handling of your boat. A winch helps in pulling or lifting heavy loads, making it easier to launch and retrieve your boat. When selecting a boat winch, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure it meets your needs and provides reliable performance. Here are the key specs to consider and how to navigate them.
Load CapacityLoad capacity refers to the maximum weight the winch can handle. This is important because it ensures the winch can safely pull or lift your boat without risk of failure. Load capacities are typically measured in pounds or kilograms. For small boats, a winch with a capacity of up to 1,500 pounds may suffice, while larger boats may require winches with capacities of 3,000 pounds or more. To pick the right load capacity, consider the weight of your boat, including any additional gear or equipment, and choose a winch that exceeds this weight to ensure safety and reliability.
Type of WinchThere are two main types of boat winches: manual and electric. Manual winches require physical effort to operate, making them suitable for smaller boats or situations where power sources are limited. Electric winches, on the other hand, use a motor to do the heavy lifting, making them ideal for larger boats or frequent use. To choose the right type, consider the size of your boat and how often you will be using the winch. If you have a larger boat or plan to use the winch frequently, an electric winch may be more convenient and less physically demanding.
Gear RatioThe gear ratio of a winch determines how much effort is required to turn the handle or operate the motor. A higher gear ratio means less effort is needed but the winch will operate more slowly, while a lower gear ratio requires more effort but operates faster. Gear ratios are typically expressed as a ratio, such as 3:1 or 5:1. For smaller boats, a lower gear ratio may be sufficient, while larger boats may benefit from a higher gear ratio to reduce the physical effort required. Consider your physical strength and the size of your boat when choosing the appropriate gear ratio.
Cable or Strap LengthThe length of the cable or strap on a winch determines how far you can pull or lift your boat. This is important for ensuring you have enough length to reach your boat from the trailer or dock. Cable or strap lengths can vary, with common lengths ranging from 20 to 50 feet. To choose the right length, measure the distance from your winch mounting point to the furthest point you need to reach on your boat. Ensure the cable or strap length exceeds this distance to provide adequate reach and flexibility.
Material and DurabilityThe material and durability of a winch are important for ensuring it can withstand the harsh marine environment. Winches are typically made from materials like steel, aluminum, or synthetic composites. Steel winches are strong and durable but may be prone to rust if not properly maintained. Aluminum winches are lightweight and resistant to corrosion, making them ideal for marine use. Synthetic composites offer a balance of strength and corrosion resistance. To choose the right material, consider the environment in which you will be using the winch and the level of maintenance you are willing to perform. Opt for materials that offer durability and resistance to corrosion for long-lasting performance.

FAQ

Most Popular Categories Right Now