10 Best Winches 2025 in the UK

The Stealth 4500lb 12V Wireless Recovery Budget Electric Winch boasts a solid load capacity of 4,500 lbs, making it suitable for various applications including utility, ATV, boat trailers, and ATV recovery. The winch features a powerful 1.41hp copper wound motor that supports both power in and out functions, ensuring dependable performance when needed. Additionally, the full steel gearing and heavy-duty solenoid enhance the winch's durability and reliability, even under demanding conditions.

The inclusion of a steel rope and hook further underscores its toughness and ability to handle substantial loads. Users will appreciate the dual control options with both wired and wireless remotes, providing versatility and ease of use. The freespooling clutch gearbox allows the cable to be unwound manually, adding to the winch's user-friendliness. The line speed is decent, with a no-load speed of 3.9 meters per minute and a loaded speed of 1.4 meters per minute, which is acceptable for a winch in this price range.

However, the winch's weight of 17.1 kg may be a bit cumbersome for some users, potentially complicating the installation process. The Stealth 4500lb winch offers excellent value for money, combining key features that ensure a robust and user-friendly experience. It is particularly suitable for those looking for a budget-friendly yet reliable winch for various recovery and towing tasks.

The Stealth Winches Electric Winch is a solid choice if you're looking for an affordable 12V winch suitable for light to medium tasks like ATV or trailer recovery. It offers a 3,500lb (around 1,588kg) load capacity, which is enough for small vehicles and utility jobs but might be low for heavy-duty industrial uses. The winch is powered by a 1.3hp copper wound permanent magnet motor, giving reliable power in both pulling in and letting out the synthetic rope. Speaking of the rope, the synthetic line is lighter and safer to handle compared to steel wire, which is a plus for casual or occasional users. The line speed is reasonable, pulling at about 3.1 meters per minute without load and slowing to 1.4 meters per minute under full load – this means it’s efficient but not the fastest on the market.

One standout feature is the dual control system: you get two wireless remotes plus a wired handheld control, making it flexible and easier to operate from a distance or close by. Its build quality is good for the price, featuring full steel gearing and a heavy-duty sealed solenoid for durability. However, since it's a budget winch, it might lack some advanced features found in premium models, and the 12-month warranty reflects typical coverage rather than extended support.

Weighing about 9.7 kg, it’s fairly portable and includes mounting plates for straightforward installation. If you need a user-friendly, budget-friendly winch for light recovery tasks, this model offers a good balance of performance and value, but those needing higher capacity or faster line speed may want to look at higher-end options.

The WINCHMAX 13,500lb SL Series Military Grade 12v Electric Winch is a robust option for those needing reliable recovery capabilities, especially suitable for recovery trucks and 4x4s up to 3.5 tons. A standout feature is its impressive load capacity of 13,500 pounds (6,123 kg), making it a suitable choice for heavy-duty tasks. The use of a Dyneema synthetic rope is advantageous, offering strength and flexibility while being lightweight compared to steel cables. This is beneficial for ease of handling and reducing strain on the winch's motor.

The winch is equipped with the latest technology in control options, including twin handset long-range wireless remote controls and a backup control lead. This provides users with flexibility and convenience, allowing for operation from a distance, which can enhance safety during recovery operations. A significant strength is its military-grade construction with improved anti-corrosion measures, ensuring durability even in harsh environments. The inclusion of a winch cover helps protect it from water and road grime, further extending its lifespan.

However, weighing 29.5 kg, this winch might be considered heavy by some users, particularly if frequent manual handling is required. Additionally, although it includes a competition hook with a safety catch, some users might prefer more modern features or additional safety mechanisms, depending on their specific recovery needs. This winch ranks well in its category, being 21st in Electric Winches, and has a high customer satisfaction rating. It's a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and powerful winching solution, particularly for off-road enthusiasts and those involved in vehicle recovery operations.