Are you looking for an electric winch that effortlessly pulls heavy loads with just a click of a button? Is your current winch too weak to operate consistently?
Then your days of suffering are coming to an end as we have handpicked the 8 best winch for Toyota Tacoma in today’s detailed guide.
Winches can often draw a lot of power from your car’s battery and render them useful. What’s the use of a winch that eats up so many amps that you end up calling another tow truck.
Fortunately, we have only chosen the most energy-efficient models with a wide variety of features to choose from.
Top 8 Toyota Tacoma Winches Overview
- WARN DC Winch – Editor’s Pick
- Smittybilt X2O COMP – Best Reviews
- X-BULL Winch – Best Pick
- Champion Power Equipment – Cheapest
- ZESUPER Electric Winch Kit
- STEGODON Electric Winch
- FIERYRED ATV Winch Kit
- VEVOR Truck Electric Winch
8 Best Winch for Toyota Tacoma Reviews
Choosing any electronic product in this day and age has become a hassle. There are too many options and too many brands that can’t live up to their promises.
You also need to make sure your Tacoma insurance provider knows about any upgrades that change the value of your vehicle in the event of damages.
Hence, to help you make the right choice, we have picked the 10 best winches on the market.
#1. WARN DC Winch
First off we have this exclusive electric winch which has been specially designed for pulling jeeps and pickup trucks. It can easily rescue vehicles as heavy as 1/2 tons within a very short time.
This bumper winch has a pulling capacity of 10,000 lbs. That’s why it’s one of the best truck winches for Tacoma.
It comes with a steel cable which gives it the sturdiness you need when pulling your car out of a ditch. The tensile strength is enough to pull large SUVs with ease.
And the powerful winch barely consumes any power as it comes with a lower amp draw. This is possible due to the planetary gear train the winch is equipped with.
On top of that, it is also powered by a series wound motor that allows you to pull the line faster even under heavy load. This immensely cuts back on the time needed to pull your truck out of a hole.
You will also find a control pack that includes a high-performance Albright contractor. The Albright contractor ensures maximum reliability in the long run.
Low-profile installations are also something you don’t need to worry about as you can easily relocate the control pack.
They have also equipped the winch with an IP68 rated waterproof construction, protecting it from moisture damage.
It also includes a remote control that contains both wired and wireless features making it more versatile.
#2. Smittybilt X2O COMP
As an alternative to the first product, we have decided to add a winch attached to synthetic rope. This is no less durable than the previous model.
It is also capable of pulling 10,000 lbs of heavy-duty vehicles with ease and grace. Besides that, it comes with several useful attachments that can make your job easier.
The synthetic rope itself is made of high-quality material that can endure heavy-duty usage without showing any signs of wear and tear.
This is certainly a beneficial feature if you’re thinking of using this winch for a long time. At the end of the rope is a forged hook that can easily latch onto your Tacoma’s bumper.
You can effortlessly pull your vehicle out of the sticky situation without worrying about a broken hook.
It also consists of different types of power cables which are essential for latching onto your pickup truck. Apart from that, it also comes with a rope sleeve and wireless remote for further convenience.
This versatile winch gives you the option to pull your car both manually and automatically. It’s also powered by a 6.6 HP amphibious motor that lets you pull relentlessly for longer distances.
A 3-stage planetary gear system provides you with more power than regular rope winches. Moreover, its stainless steel hardware and revolutionary brake system make it more durable and reliable.
You will also be glad to find two solenoid winch mount options. On top of that, this robust winch is completely waterproof.
#3. X-BULL
The third product on this list of reviews is a highly resistant winch that is suitable for the harshest environmental conditions.
If you like venturing out in the wild and often get stuck in the most unfortunate places, this high-quality winch is meant for you. You won’t find many models as reliable as this one.
This intensely durable winch comes with an IP67 rated construction that allows it to resist water damage. Thus, it’s suitable for heavy-duty use in the worst of conditions.
Plus, the 500 amp solenoid valve gives it more power than most rope winches. The synthetic rope is also a feature to look out for.
As it is capable of pulling up to 13,000 lbs, it is ideal for you if you own a two-door jeep or an SUV. Its incredible capacity is what sets it apart from most winches on the market.
The winch also ensures lower ampere traction even when it’s pulling a heavier load than usual. This is due to the 3 stage planetary gear system that lets you monitor the load.
You can further monitor the power input and output with the help of a heavily sealed contractor. The heavy-duty contractor also gives it the extra durability to resist damage caused by repeated usage.
The synthetic rope winch is also equipped with a powerful motor that makes it possible to pull heavy vehicles such as a Toyota Tacoma.
It can deliver speeds of 25.3 feet per minute with no load and 7 feet per minute with maximum load.
#4. Champion Power Equipment
Do you own an ATV that constantly gets stuck on rocky roads?
Most of the winches you will find on the market are too powerful and pricey for an ATV. It is one of the cheapest winches that you can consider for your tuck.
However, there are models like this one, which is specifically made for that purpose. This ATV/UTV wireless winch kit is powered by a 1.6 HP motor.
That’s just the right amount of power to pull a 4500 lbs vehicle effortlessly out of a ditch. It’s perfect for you if own a Toyota Tacoma.
All you need to do is attach the hook to your vehicle, and it will be rescued in no time. The DC motor can deliver a decent amount of power which lets you quickly pull your ATV to safety.
The winch offers high speeds of 12.8 feet per minute with no load and 4.6 feet per minute with a full load. This feature makes it suitable for relatively lightweight vehicles.
However, the most remarkable feature of this winch kit is its remote control device. The remote allows you to operate the winch from as far as 50 feet from it. This makes things much more convenient for you when your ATV gets stuck in an unreachable location.
Besides that, the 38-foot long cable is made of galvanized super-duty aircraft material. This heavy-duty material protects it from abrasive surfaces and stops it from wearing out.
With this cable, you will attain the right amount of tension to pull your car smoothly. They also supply you with a convenient wiring kit that comes with a contractor and mini rocker handle.
A mounting channel and roller fairlead are also included.
#5. ZESUPER Electric Winch Kit
Next up on this list is a multipurpose electric winch that is not only suitable for cars and jeeps but also for pulling boats! Yes, you heard it right.
This efficient winch kit can help you pull boats to the shore without putting any extra effort into it. It’s also ideal for pulling utility trailers out on the road.
It comes with a heavily sealed contractor that has enhanced endurance and high durability. The winch also consists of a 500 amp relay which is also the reason for its immense power.
All these features work pretty well to help you finish the job within a short duration. The winch can pull heavy vehicles at a rate of 24.6 feet per minute with no load and 6.4 feet per minute when fully loaded.
Now you can easily carry a broken vehicle with this winch for an extended period. The 18-meter rope is strong enough to withstand accentuated usage on a regular basis.
It’s only 9 mm thick but still delivers enough tensile strength. The electric winch is also equipped with a 5.5 HP winding series motor, which is its main source of power. A three-stage planetary gear and free winding clutch ensure better reliability in the long run.
The model also comes with a unique brake design that lets you stop the winch from pulling instantly. A clever high-sensitivity remote control also allows you to adjust the pulling speed.
On top of that, this winch kit is IP67 rated and is both waterproof and sand proof.
#6. STEGODON Electric Winch
At number 6 we have a top-notch winch kit with a unique rope made of superior quality material. The rope is the first thing that will catch your eye as it is made of fluorescent material.
This material allows you to see the rope distinctly in the dead of the night. Now it will be easier to keep track of in low light.
Besides that, the rope has been modified to resist higher temperatures, which makes it more reliable. It reduces the chances of the rope breaking off under pressure.
The rope outshines the older models by a long shot. Even the winch itself has an outstanding design that makes it look classy.
The 10 mm rope is 18 meters in length and creates enough tension to pull heavy loads with ease. This manufacturer has added a 5.5 HP series electric motor that constantly delivers power.
Apart from that, the efficient motor requires significantly less energy to provide that power. They have also included a 3 stage planetary gear system that is made of durable steel.
This allows you to operate the winch kit more smoothly and effortlessly. A free spoiling clutch makes this winch most suitable for getting you out of muddy roads. You can free a Toyota Tacoma from a ditch much faster.
This winch kit can pull vehicles that weigh up to 9500 lbs. The 500 amp solenoid valve allows you to pull your car at high speeds.
A unique clutch system offers you better control of the winch no matter how heavy the load is.
#7. FIERYRED Winch Kit
This next electric winch kit comes equipped with a robust 1.9 HP motor and a permanent magnet motor guarantee.
If that isn’t enough proof of its reliability, then I don’t know what is. The electric motor constantly delivers power to the winch, so you can easily tow your ATV through bumpy roads.
You will never have to worry about speed or rope tension, even when you’re carrying larger loads. This highly efficient winch kit can easily pull vehicles that weigh up to 4500 lbs.
Just imagine the amount of equipment you can carry with the help of this winch. Its unmatched capabilities surpass even the recent models.
This potent winch kit comes with a gear reduction ratio of 153:1. It offers you better control of the winch and the vehicle you want to tow.
Unlike most models on the market, this device is equipped with a planetary gear train. Even the rope, which is made of synthetic material, is better than any other winch.
The rope is durable and remains sturdy when you’re pulling a vehicle. They have also included a dual remote control device. Now you can switch between the manual and wireless functions.
The remote also allows you to control the winch from 25 meters afar. This clever feature makes life much easier. This electric winch has a black textured finish.
Moreover, the construction is fully rainproof and can resist harsh environmental factors. If you’re looking for a winch kit that will serve through thick and thin, this is an ideal choice.
#8. VEVOR Truck Winch
As the last product on this list, we have decided to add an electric winch that is way more powerful than any other model at this price. And why won’t it be?
It is equipped with a 6.6 HP 12 V motor that allows it to tow vehicles as heavy as 17,500 lbs. There are hardly any vehicles you can’t pull with this winch.
Furthermore, the winch kit also consists of a 3 stage planetary gear system that allows it to operate more swiftly than ever. The manufacturer has tweaked the gear ratio to ensure better pulling power and less friction.
It also comes with a satin black powder-coated finish that adds a touch of class to the winch. Besides that, it’s equipped with stainless steel fasteners that save it from rusting and corrosion.
All these features work in unison to make this winch last a long time. The winch is also sealed securely to keep out harmful elements.
They have also added a stronger 85 feet synthetic rope, which is a perfect choice if you need to tow a truck. This is a much better option than steel cable as it’s much more flexible.
The rope is light but still remains sturdy under pressure. It also consists of a durable aluminum fairlead that increases its efficiency.
Moreover, the braking system also contributes to its reliability and control; furthermore, the state-of-the-art remote control kit allows you to control the vehicle from long distances. The versatile also works perfectly in snowy, rainy, and dusty areas.
With this electric winch at your disposal, you can pull large vehicles at lightning-fast speeds! That’s why it’s an ideal choice if you drive a Toyota Tacoma.
What to Look for Before You Buy?
By now you probably know all about the top brands of winches on the market. You might be thinking you’re well prepared to make a purchase now.
That’s where you’re wrong. To make sure you make the correct purchase, there are still some factors you should know about.
Construction
When buying an electric winch, the first thing you need to pay attention to is the type of materials used in its construction.
This will give you a fair idea about how long the winch is going to last. It is only common sense that the more you spend the better durability you will get from the product.
Premium quality materials will cost you more. It’s not just about the material though. The winch should also have a good sealing to keep out the environmental elements.
If you don’t pay attention to that, your winch can lose its charm before the warranty expires. Also, pay attention to the electronic features of the winch you’re buying. The motor is the winch’s power source.
Decide how much power you require and make a pick based on that. The most efficient models come with a 6.6 HP series wound motor that will serve you indefinitely.
With this amount of power, you won’t have to worry about the winch shutting off halfway. Most models on the market also come with a 3 planetary stage gear.
This feature will offer you pulling strength and control over your winch. Apart from that, a winch also needs to have an above-average braking system.
This can not only get your job done faster but also ensure safety. A cheap braking system will cause your winch to respond slowly.
And a good remote control system is another feature to look out for. It will allow you to control the speed and power even when you’re a short distance away from the winch.
The winch also needs to be waterproof to remain operational in all types of weather. Moreover, the drum and the gears need to be made of a durable material to resist corrosion and rusting.
Waterproofing
If you like to drive off-road more often, then you probably encounter a lot of muddy roads. You may usually get stuck in awkward ditches that are submerged by water. Operating a winch in such situations can be difficult if it doesn’t come with a certain level of waterproofing.
You can easily check how waterproof the winch is by observing its IP rating. This rating will also tell you how resistant the material is to dust, debris, and mud.
A good winch that is ideal for off-roading must at least have a higher IP rating than six. The first number in this denotation shows its resistance against dust.
The second number will tell you how waterproof the winch is. In case it’s 7 then that means you can submerge the winch in up to one meter of water for about 30 minutes.
If you need a winch that works continuously while completely submerged, look for an 8 rating or higher.
Gearing
The gearing of an electric winch is of the utmost importance when it comes to pulling power. This factor is not only dependent on the horsepower of the motor.
In fact, there are some models with a 6.6 HP motor but still, have a lower pulling capacity. That’s because their gearing ratio is high. If your job involves towing massive trucks on daily basis, you might prefer a winch with a lower gearing ratio.
Keep in mind that the lower the ratio is, the more weight you can pull, and the slower the line speed will be. You would have to sacrifice speed to get more power.
Charging
Other than the most obvious ones, there are also a few other factors that determine the efficiency of the winch.
For example, you need to make sure the winch comes with proper charging equipment. Winches are immensely powerful machines, which draw a lot of power.
It takes plenty amounts of amperage to keep a winch running for a long time. The battery constantly powers the winch once you turn it on.
It is automatically charged by the alternator when it’s switched off. In most models, the starting battery they provide you with isn’t suitable for heavy-duty usage.
You might need to replace the battery with a new one sooner than you expect. However, if you don’t mind spending a few extra bucks initially, you will get more long-lasting battery life.
Make sure they require less amperage to operate consistently. The charging options should be convenient as well.
No matter which model you choose, you might need to replace the starting battery with a deep cycle battery later on, especially if you wish to use the winch on a daily basis.
Different Types of Winches
Electric winches come in different shapes, sizes, and models. Each of them has different features that can make your job easier.
Due to modern technology, there are now several types of winches out there. To know which winch suits you best, you will need to analyze their individual features.
Electrical Winches
Electrical winches solely rely on your car’s battery to operate efficiently. You need to plug into a power source to get the motor running.
They are most suitable for occasional use rather than heavy-duty usage. However, they are much easier to install and also easy to transfer from one car to another.
Hand Operated Winches
Hand winches are mostly used in arbor companies and areas with no electrical outlets. They are mainly suitable for lightweight applications.
It comes with a lever arm and a barrel axis that lets you pull small vehicles. You might need them if you frequently visit woodland areas or places near water.
Air Winches
These types of winches are mostly used in marine industries and other construction sites. They are usually powered by compressed air and are more eco-friendly than the rest of the models.
Air winches are far more powerful than others. This makes them suitable for lifting and hoisting materials.
Hydraulic Winches
As the name suggests, these winches are powered by fluids in their mechanics. They are highly environment friendly and require less power to operate efficiently.
Hydraulic winches can also pull heavier vehicles for longer distances. They have an extended duty cycle that allows them to pull consistently. Most of these models come with waterproof housing, which makes them perfect for use in marine industries.
Drum Winches
You will mostly find these types of winches on boats and ships. They are called drum winches because the rope is usually fitted to the drum.
Drum winches are ideal for dropping and lifting heavy loads quickly. They are also compatible with almost any type of rope or chain.
Top-Rated Brands on the Market
To get the best out of your money, it’s only logical to research the leading brands that manufacture winches. There is no lack of such brands on the market.
Nevertheless, we have only picked the best brands that offer a wide range of features to choose from.
WARN
WARN is one of the most recommended brands with a wide selection of winches to choose from. Each of their models is made of superior quality materials that offer high resistance to environmental elements.
We have reviewed one of their many models that stand out due to their waterproof housing. They also come with incredible cable strength and high line speed.
The model we reviewed can pull up to 10,000 lbs of load. It also consists of an Albright contractor that enables low-profile installations. Their winches are good for pulling SUVs and pickup trucks for long distances.
Champion
Champion are the pioneers at manufacturing electric winches for lightweight vehicles. They are mainly good at building highly efficient winches for pulling ATVs and motorcycles.
These winches come with a sturdy cable that offers incredible line strength. The cable is also made of premium-grade material that doesn’t deteriorate when constantly under pressure.
Not only that, but they also have many models that include a convenient remote control system. This feature allows you to control the winch for up to 50 feet away!
Smittybilt
If you’re looking for a heavy-duty winch that will serve well in submerged conditions then you might like our model from Smittybilt.
They are well known for their synthetic rope material that isn’t affected by water or other elements. The waterproof housing also protects the internal components from damage.
Moreover, the Smittybilt model we reviewed comes with a 6.6 HP amphibious motor that can deliver power even underwater. Their winches can pull incredible amounts of weight without crumbling under pressure.
X-BULL
When speaking of top electric winch brands, it’s impossible not to mention X-BULL. The products they manufacture have a very low gearing ratio, which grants them more pulling power.
Due to this reason, the product we mentioned in this article can pull up to 13,000 lbs of weight. There are many other models from X-BULL that offer the same level of optimized performance.
On top of that, their winches consist of a heavy-duty contractor that seals out the harmful elements. All of their models are extremely reliable and durable enough to last years.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How can I speed up my electric winch?
If your electric winch has low line speed, it’s probably because it can’t draw enough power from the source. To increase the power, you can connect the winch to a running vehicle, such as a pickup truck. This will give them enough amperes to pull the required weight much faster.
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How strong of a winch do I need?
There is a simple rule for this question. If you want to pick a model with the ideal pulling capacity, all you need to do is double the weight of your vehicle.
The weight capacity of the winch should be double the weight of your car. For example, a Toyota Tacoma requires a 9000 to 9500 lbs capacity winch.
On the other hand, if you own a Ford F-150 pickup truck, then you can go for a winch with a 12,000 to 12,500 lbs weight capacity.
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How does a winch get power?
The main power source of an electric winch is its battery. You will need to supply the winch with a certain amount of electricity to start up the motor.
To do so, you need to connect it to a nearby outlet or to the battery of a running vehicle. You can also choose to connect it to an auxiliary battery.
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Will a winch drain my battery?
It’s that common for a winch to drain your vehicle’s battery if it’s turned off after you. However, it can drain your battery if it has been operating for consecutive hours.
Also, check if all the wires are perfectly in place. An old battery will drain much faster if it’s near the end of its lifespan.
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Can you run a winch off a deep cycle battery?
Deep cycle batteries are not necessarily ideal for running electrical winches. They deliver low power constantly for a long period. Winches need a lot of power at a fast pace to operate efficiently.
Final Verdict
By now, you have all the information necessary for picking the best winch for Toyota Tacoma in 2021. The models we listed can also be useful for other types of vehicles as well.
Make sure you refer to the top brand’s section to know their features and the things you should consider before buy
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