A winch is an essential tool that could get you out of trouble very quickly. If you own a Jeep or similar vehicle for off-road driving, you may want to consider buying one.
When the time comes, there are two brands that always pop up, which are Smittybilt Winch vs. Warn.
The reliability of winches produced by those two brands is undeniable. So much so that drivers compare the two to find the ideal pick for them.
In this article, we’ll talk about the most valuable choices you could buy, and then we’ll draw a conclusion on which one is the best out of the two. Let’s start by talking about the Smittybilt winch.
Table of Contents
Smittybilt or Warn winch?
What are the differences between the two brands? Let’s take a look!
Smittybilt Winch – Cheaper and Effective
When you’re looking for an affordable winch, Smittybilt is the way to go. These are less expensive than Warn units.
Another difference is that Smittybilt winches have wireless remote, which Warn models lack.
Other features worth mentioning from Smittybilt units are the waterproof design and the amphibious motors.
While the overall performance of these models is alright, some customers dislike the solenoid center mounts. Either way, for the money, Smittybilt winches meet most expectations.
Warn Winch – High-End Units for Every Use
As mentioned above, Warn winches are the most expensive out of the two. While it’s true that these don’t have wireless remote, the units still put up an outstanding performance.
They come with a high degree of waterproofing and a unique clutch lever.
Plus, the added cast-iron structural brace not only provides the support the winch may need, but it also contributes with a rugged look.
Smittybilt Winch
What to expect from Smittybilt? Here’s a brief list of benefits that you’d get with a winch created by this manufacturer.
In the reviews, later on, we’ll explore the units more in-depth.
Technology and Hardware
An essential feature of a Smittybilt winch is the combination of technology and effective hardware behind the product.
For instance, you get the 3-Stage Planetary Gear System, which has proven to deliver excellent results in diverse tasks.
Power and Capacity
Due to the addition of a 6.6 horsepower motor, power is something you won’t miss at all. The motor offers an outstanding ability to pull and hold loads securely.
Ease of Use
Wireless control remotes, like those included in the Smittybilt, make the whole experience much better, as it reduces the effort required to operate the winch.
Not only that, but the handles are comfortable, and the trigger allows you to operate the winch with no issues.
Recommended Smittybilt Winches to Buy
Now, we’ll mention and talk about some of Smittybilt’s best offers.
Smittybilt 97495 GEN 2 XRC Winch with 9,500 Pound Load Capacity
This is an incredible device that comes with an amphibious motor of 6.6 horsepower.
Its weight capacity goes from 9,500 to 17,500 lbs, making it an ideal product for winch users.
For the price, it’s a unit that delivers efficiency and power for most of your needs.
Surely, this product is a bit heavier than its predecessors. Nonetheless, its weight shouldn’t be of any issue for most people.
Once set, the unit has 161.28:1 of gear ratio with a three-stage planetary gear system to pull off the toughest activities.
Installation and cable management are also two other benefits. The kit offers every tool needed, including the wiring.
Although many people like to customize their setups, it’s best if you stick to the wiring provided to avoid any issue in the foreseeable future.
This unit sticks to some of the best features seen in previous models. For instance, you’ll get to use the sliding ring gear clutch and the remote control system.
Of course, that means users won’t have to put any manual work for the operation of the winch.
PROS
CONS
Latest Guide: Warn VR10 Vs VR10S Winch
Smittybilt 98510 X2O Waterproof Synthetic Rope Winch
The X20 comes with the traditional 6.6 HP amphibious motor that offers many benefits and little to none drawbacks.
It manages to deliver a powerful performance, which is why the device remains a good choice for many winch users.
Truthfully, the features included in this truck winch are fairly similar to the previous pick. The winch offers the three-stage planetary gear system, with a gear ratio of 218:1.
Not only is the device able to pull massive weight efficiently, but it’ll also do it pretty fast.
For more convenience, you also get the remote control system that reduces the manual work to a minimum.
Additionally, the unit features the sliding ring gear clutch, automatic drum brake, and the steel cable or synthetic cable rope.
The winch weighs 67 lbs, with compact dimensions that make it somewhat portable. It’s suitable for average vehicles, as it won’t add unnecessary weight.
With a weight pull capacity of 10,000 to 17,500 lbs, and a 650CCA battery (recommended), this winch will be able to achieve many feats.
Despite some customers saying they had issues installing the solenoid, it’s an issue that only happens to some.
PROS
CONS
Smittybilt 97695 XRC 9.5K GEN3 Winch
The Smittybilt 97695 is an XRC GEN 3 model that offers decent power and capacity for the price.
Once ready, it’ll be capable of handling a capacity of 9,500 lbs. Customers have said this unit is their go-to choice when another winch isn’t living up to the task.
For its creation, the winch features a combination of up-to-date technology, a powerful motor, and an appealing price that won’t hurt wallets. Those three factors make it a choice not many would dismiss.
The unit features a rugged design and heavy-duty steel cable that make it withstand almost anything.
Also, there’s another version of this model, which is the synthetic line model.
It’s a bit more expensive, but it’s nice having the variety to choose the one you need.
Users will also appreciate the customizable options offered by this model. For example, with a relocatable control box, you’ll be able to mount it over the motor or drum.
As for the remote control, it meets the expectations by offering easy to use features and a lengthy cord for more comfort.
PROS
CONS
Related Guide: Smittybilt X20 vs WARN Zeon
Warn Winch
If you’re wondering what do Warn winches offer, take a look at this section to learn some of their best features.
Easy to Use
With clear instructions and an intuitive layout, Warn winches are pretty easy to figure out. Even if you’re not an expert, you wouldn’t have a hard time using them.
Secure Operation
Both the battery and the capacity of the winch allow you to lift weight safely, guaranteeing the unit will hold it without risks.
Whether you’re pulling the vehicle or holding load, Warn winches keep the operation secure.
Flexibility
If you don’t want a corded unit, you could go for a cordless winch instead. Warn provides flexibility, allowing you to use the units as you prefer.
Recommended Warn Winches to Buy
Here are the units you should consider purchasing from this brand.
WARN 885000 PullzAll Corded 120V AC Portable Electric Winch
If you ever need a versatile winch, then the Warn PullzAll 885000 may be what you need.
It’ll allow you to achieve your tasks with less time and considerably less effort.
With an outstanding build, you can expect it to be efficient and deliver satisfactory results.
This product is suitable for many jobs, including equipment maintenance and machine shops.
Its build, as mentioned above, is one of its biggest benefits, as it’s capable of putting up a ton of weight.
Additionally, the handle is comfortable and easy to use, allowing you to put everything in its place.
Depending on what the task demands, the PullzAll features a control trigger with multiple speed settings for better adaptation.
Also, the added forward and reverse buttons provide precise movements for more accurate handling of the load.
With only 15 lbs, the PullzAll is both easy to use and carry around from home to the workplace.
The wire rope measurement is 15’ of 7/32”, and there’s a swiveling anchor hook included to hold the object securely.
As a minor nitpick, some users may find the cable length too short. You’d have to do extra work to maneuver your way around the working place.
PROS
CONS
WARN 910500 Handheld Portable Drill Winch
This winch is as efficient as it’s good-looking. It features a remarkable build, including a molded plastic body that doesn’t look cheap in the slightest.
As for its finish, the unit has a black matte design that improves its overall appearance. You may also like how convenient the handle is.
Since it requires a drill as the power source, the power of the winch may not be limitless, but it still manages to be reliable.
Also, the addition of an overload limiter guarantees the motor won’t heat up dangerously while pulling heavy loads. The unit is easy to operate, and it offers options to lift or drop loads.
The ability of the winch to adapt to different circumstances is yet another one of its benefits.
It operates with portable drills, and it has the option to adapt to corded or cordless drills, depending on what you need.You should be able to pull around 200 kgs, even while using a cordless drill.
If you have a conversion kit, then swapping from steel to synthetic rope is possible with this winch. As a downside, the purchase doesn’t include a drill.
PROS
CONS
WARN 885005 PullzAll Cordless 24V DC Portable Electric Winch
This PullzAll model offers a maximum capacity of 1,000 pounds, and it’s available to use as corded and cordless models.
Since it features an onboard rechargeable battery like most cordless tools, this one doesn’t need wiring to the vehicle’s battery, which provides more freedom for the users.
Operating the unit is almost effortless, as it includes a trigger control that makes everything easier. With just a pull of the trigger, this motorized PullzAll gets the job done.
Similar to other tools designed for hoisting work, this product has the locking brake that holds fast while the load isn’t either reversing or advancing.
Conveniently, users get to position the load and then secure it safely using the 15-foot cable included. Also, you can move from point A to B easily.
Overall, the tool can do a lot while requiring little effort from the user’s side.
Realistically, the biggest downside you may encounter while handling this unit is its weight, which customers found heavier than expected.
PROS
CONS
Conclusion
So, which one should you buy between Smittybilt winch vs. Warn winch? Depend on how much you want to spend and the convenient features you may need.
They’re both incredibly effective at what they do, meaning the decision is up to your budget.
For a slightly more affordable unit, go with Smittybilt. If you want a better and ultimately more high-end unit, then the Warn winch is what you need.