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10 Best Chain Hoists 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Harrington LB Series Steel Lever Hoist, 9-19/32" Lever, 3/4 Ton Capacity, 15' Lift Height, 0.9" Opening, 11" Headroom

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,198
Chain Length

Most important from
21 reviews

Chain Length
Although the chain length was misunderstood, the 15-foot chain still meets the requirements.

The Harrington LB Series Steel Lever Hoist is designed for users needing a reliable lifting solution, with a load capacity of 3/4 ton and a lift height of 15 feet. This hoist stands out with its rugged, all-steel construction, which is surprisingly lighter than many aluminum options, making it easier to handle. One of the significant strengths is the Weston-style load brake, enhanced by moisture-resistant brake pads that ensure safe operation even in challenging environments. The enclosed brake mechanism provides added protection against dirt and moisture, extending the hoist's lifespan.

Another notable feature is the patented spring-loaded freewheel mechanism, which allows for easy adjustment of the load chain. This feature is handy for users who need to position their loads precisely without worrying about accidental freewheeling while under load. The heat-treated gears also contribute to the durability of the product, ensuring it can withstand regular use.

There are some points to consider. The 3/4 ton capacity may limit its use for heavier lifting tasks, so users with larger loads might need to explore hoists with higher capacities. Additionally, while the weight is an advantage for portability, some users might prefer the sturdiness often associated with heavier models for demanding applications. The 15-foot lift height is suitable for many tasks, but those needing higher lifts may find this limiting.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,198
Chain Length

Most important from
21 reviews

Chain Length
Although the chain length was misunderstood, the 15-foot chain still meets the requirements.
#2

NEWTRY 2-Speed Electric Chain Hoist 2200lb, Pendant & Remote Control, 13ft/min & 22.3ft/min Brushless Overhead Crane Lift, G80 10ft Lifting Height Power Electric Hoists 110V

Rating
9.4
Load Capacity
Lifting Speed
Power Source

Most important from
2 reviews

Load Capacity
Delivers solid, reliable performance with daily use and successful load testing.
Lifting Speed
Offers versatile lifting speeds for precision or speed, adapting well to different job demands.
Power Source
Operates smoothly with a quiet, maintenance-friendly brushless motor ideal for frequent tasks.

The NEWTRY 2-Speed Electric Chain Hoist is a solid choice for those needing to lift heavy loads up to 2200 lbs. It stands out with its brushless 2500W motor, which requires less maintenance and runs more quietly compared to traditional motors, making it suitable for frequent use in construction, manufacturing, and warehouses. You get two adjustable lifting speeds—13 ft/min for precision and 22.3 ft/min for faster lifting—allowing flexibility depending on your task. The lifting height is 10 feet with a durable G80 grade chain, which is both strong and visually appealing.

Control options include an 8.2 ft wired pendant and a 330 ft remote, providing safety by letting you operate the hoist from a distance. It also has built-in limit switches to prevent over-lifting or over-lowering, adding an important safety feature. The hoist’s weight and size (about 52 pounds and compact dimensions) make it relatively portable for its power class.

This hoist fits well for professionals who need reliable, heavy-duty lifting with flexibility in speed and control. However, those requiring very long lifts might want to consider models with longer chains.

Rating
9.4
Load Capacity
Lifting Speed
Power Source

Most important from
2 reviews

Load Capacity
Delivers solid, reliable performance with daily use and successful load testing.
Lifting Speed
Offers versatile lifting speeds for precision or speed, adapting well to different job demands.
Power Source
Operates smoothly with a quiet, maintenance-friendly brushless motor ideal for frequent tasks.
#3

Harrington LX Lever Hoist, Hook Mount, 1/2 Ton Capacity, 10' Lift, 9.7" Headroom, 7.1" Lever Length, 0.9" Hook Opening

Rating
9.4
Load Capacity

Most important from
73 reviews

Load Capacity
Much smaller than expected, yet maintains a strong 500# pull capacity.

The Harrington LX Lever Hoist is a compact, manual hoisting solution that offers a 1/2 ton capacity and a 10-foot lift height, making it suitable for light to moderate lifting tasks, particularly in tight spaces. One of its standout features is its low headroom design, which allows it to be used effectively in confined areas, making it ideal for mobile storage or crowded job sites. The hoist's die-cast aluminum body combined with a sturdy steel frame enhances its portability and durability, ensuring it can withstand regular use without compromising performance.

A significant advantage of this hoist is its low pulling force requirement. This means even users without extensive experience can operate it efficiently, and the free-chain adjusting mechanism allows for quick and easy adjustments during use. Additionally, this lever hoist has been factory load tested at 125% of its rated capacity, complying with ANSI/ASME standards, which gives potential users confidence in its safety and reliability.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. While it is compact, the 1/2 ton capacity may not be sufficient for heavier loads, so it might not meet the needs of those requiring a heavier-duty hoist for larger construction projects. Also, as a manual lever hoist, it requires physical effort to operate, which could be a drawback for users who prefer powered options or those lifting heavier loads frequently.

The Harrington LX Lever Hoist is a practical choice for individuals or small businesses needing a lightweight, durable hoist for moderate lifting tasks in limited spaces. It excels in portability and ease of use, though those requiring higher capacity or electric options might need to consider alternatives.

Rating
9.4
Load Capacity

Most important from
73 reviews

Load Capacity
Much smaller than expected, yet maintains a strong 500# pull capacity.

Buying Guide for the Best Chain Hoists

Choosing the right chain hoist is crucial for ensuring safety, efficiency, and productivity in lifting operations. A chain hoist is a mechanical device used to lift and lower heavy loads using a chain. When selecting a chain hoist, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure it meets your specific needs and requirements. Understanding these specifications will help you make an informed decision and select the best chain hoist for your application.
Load CapacityLoad capacity, also known as lifting capacity, refers to the maximum weight a chain hoist can safely lift. This specification is crucial because using a hoist with insufficient capacity can lead to equipment failure and safety hazards. Load capacities are typically segmented into light-duty (up to 1 ton), medium-duty (1 to 5 tons), and heavy-duty (over 5 tons). To pick the right load capacity, consider the maximum weight of the loads you will be lifting. Always choose a hoist with a capacity that exceeds your heaviest load to ensure safety and longevity of the equipment.
Lift HeightLift height refers to the maximum vertical distance the hoist can lift a load. This is important because it determines how high you can raise your load. Lift heights can vary from a few feet to several dozen feet. To determine the appropriate lift height, measure the distance from the hoist's mounting point to the highest point you need to lift your load. Ensure the hoist you choose has a lift height that meets or exceeds this requirement.
Chain LengthChain length is the total length of the chain used in the hoist. This specification is important because it affects the hoist's reach and flexibility in different lifting scenarios. Chain lengths can range from a few feet to over 100 feet. When selecting a chain length, consider the distance between the hoist and the load, as well as any additional length needed for maneuvering and positioning the load. Choose a chain length that provides enough reach for your specific application.
Lifting SpeedLifting speed refers to how quickly the hoist can lift a load, usually measured in feet per minute (fpm). This is important for efficiency and productivity, especially in time-sensitive operations. Lifting speeds can be categorized into slow (up to 10 fpm), moderate (10 to 20 fpm), and fast (over 20 fpm). To choose the right lifting speed, consider the nature of your tasks. For precise and delicate operations, a slower speed may be preferable. For general lifting tasks where speed is important, a moderate to fast lifting speed may be more suitable.
Power SourceThe power source of a chain hoist can be manual, electric, or pneumatic. This specification is important because it affects the hoist's usability and suitability for different environments. Manual hoists are operated by hand and are suitable for light-duty tasks and areas without power access. Electric hoists are powered by electricity and are ideal for medium to heavy-duty tasks, offering higher lifting speeds and ease of use. Pneumatic hoists use compressed air and are suitable for environments where electrical sparks could be hazardous. Choose the power source that best fits your operational needs and working environment.
Duty CycleDuty cycle refers to the amount of time a hoist can operate continuously before needing to rest. This is important for ensuring the longevity and reliability of the hoist. Duty cycles are often expressed as a percentage, indicating the proportion of time the hoist can be in use within a given period. For example, a 30% duty cycle means the hoist can operate for 3 minutes out of every 10 minutes. To choose the right duty cycle, consider the frequency and duration of your lifting tasks. For continuous or frequent use, a hoist with a higher duty cycle is recommended.

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