10 Best Truck Winches 2025 in the United States

The WARN 97740 16.5TI-S is a heavy-duty electric winch designed for trucks, offering a strong pulling capacity of 16,500 pounds, which makes it suitable for tough recovery tasks and heavy loads. It uses a powerful series-wound motor that provides efficient performance, combined with a durable three-stage planetary gear system, helping it handle demanding jobs smoothly. The winch comes with an 80-foot synthetic Spydura Pro cable, which is lighter and safer than traditional steel cables and includes a protective nylon sleeve to reduce wear and tear, extending the cable’s life.

One of its standout features is the waterproof contactor control, enhancing reliability in wet or harsh conditions—important for outdoor use. The winch also boasts a best-in-class cone brake system, which improves safety by securely holding the load when not in use. With a weight of 104 pounds, installation requires a sturdy mount and some effort, reflecting its capability but potentially limiting portability.

This winch is an excellent choice for those needing robust, reliable equipment for heavy recovery or towing, particularly valuing cable durability and waterproof controls. It may not be ideal for users seeking a lighter or more portable unit or those wanting advanced wireless control options.

The OPENROAD 13500 lb Recovery Winch stands out in the truck winch category due to its strong load capacity and thoughtful design features. With a synthetic rope that measures 3/8" x 85ft and a breaking strength of 13,500 lbs, it's suitable for a range of vehicles including trucks, jeeps, and trailers. This makes it a great option for off-road enthusiasts who require a reliable winch for recovery situations.

One major strength of this winch is its waterproof design, rated at IP68, which ensures that it can withstand various weather conditions without compromising performance. Additionally, the winch is user-friendly with two wireless remotes, allowing for easy control from a distance, and includes a complete installation kit for straightforward setup on your vehicle’s front bumper.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. While the winch's durability is highlighted by its corrosion-resistant components, the build quality is contingent on proper installation. Users must verify the installation bolt hole dimensions (10" x 4.5") before purchase to ensure compatibility with their vehicle. The winch weighs 50 pounds, which could be a factor for those looking for a lighter option.

The X-BULL 13500 lb electric winch is a solid choice for truck owners who need a powerful and reliable recovery tool. Its 12V series wound motor delivers 6.0 horsepower, supported by a robust 3-stage planetary gear system, which together ensure strong pulling power and smooth operation. The synthetic rope is a good lightweight alternative to steel cables, safer and easier to handle, and the included hawse fairlead helps protect the rope during use.

One of this winch’s standout features is the dual control system: a wireless remote with a range of up to 35 meters and a wired handheld option, both rated IP67 waterproof, making it usable in tough weather conditions without worry. The clutch system and solenoid design add durability and reduce common issues like motor overheating or clutch damage. The winch’s size and mounting specs are standard for trucks, but at nearly 61 pounds, it’s fairly heavy, which is typical for a winch of this capacity.

For users seeking a winch that combines strong load capacity with modern controls and reliable build quality, the X-BULL 13500 lb kit is a fitting option. It is best suited for users comfortable with the weight and installation process, and those who appreciate the safety benefits of synthetic rope over traditional steel cables.