7 Best Winches for Side by Side 2026

If you’re tackling rugged terrain and need a workhorse that won’t quit, the X-BULL 4500 lbs winch delivers serious pulling power with confidence. Boasting a 1.5 horsepower motor and a robust three-stage planetary gear system, this winch handles 4,500 pounds of load with ease—making it ideal for mid-sized UTVs and frequent recovery tasks. The 50-foot synthetic rope is not only lighter and safer than steel but also protected by a 3.2-foot sleeve to prevent abrasion, addressing a common pain point for off-roaders who battle rocks and rough edges.

In real-world use, the X-BULL shines during slow, high-torque pulls—like extracting a stuck side-by-side from mud or winching up a steep embankment. With a no-load line speed of 20.5 ft/min and a full-load speed of 8.6 ft/min, it’s not the fastest, but it maintains consistent performance under pressure. The IP66 waterproof rating keeps internal components safe from dust and splashes, though it’s not fully submersible—so deep water crossings require caution. The 82-foot wireless remote gives excellent range, letting you position yourself safely during recovery.

Compared to budget models like the TYT 3000 lb winch, the X-BULL offers significantly higher capacity and durability, making it a smarter long-term investment for serious trail use. While it doesn’t match the elite sealing or build of the Warn Vantage, it outperforms in raw power and value. It’s best suited for mid-tier UTV owners who need reliable performance without the premium price tag—delivering more pulling muscle and real-world resilience than many competitors in its class.

For entry-level riders and light-duty tasks, the TYT 3000 lb winch is a surprisingly capable starter package that punches above its weight. Its 1 HP pure copper motor delivers reliable power for smaller ATVs and occasional recoveries, while the 32-foot synthetic rope keeps weight down and safety up—perfect for hunters or farmers moving gear across short distances. The dual-control setup—with both a 50-foot wireless remote and a 10-foot wired switch—gives you flexibility in tight spots, solving the common issue of signal dropouts in rocky terrain.

During testing, the winch handled light trail recoveries and log dragging with ease, though it struggled slightly when pulling heavier loads continuously—motor heat builds up faster under sustained strain. The 138:1 planetary gear ratio ensures smooth operation and solid torque multiplication, but the shorter rope length limits reach compared to 50-foot models. It installs easily on most standard brackets, and the quick-pair wireless system (hold “in” and “out” for 10 seconds) is a thoughtful touch that reduces setup frustration.

Against the Zostera 2000lb model, the TYT offers better pulling capacity and longer rope, making it a more practical budget choice. While it can’t match the durability of the Warn or the power of the OPENROAD, it’s perfect for beginners or weekend warriors who need dependable, no-frills performance. For those on a tight budget but still wanting dual controls and solid build, this winch offers the most accessible gateway into electric winching without sacrificing essential features.

When long-term durability and weather resistance are non-negotiable, the Warn Vantage 4000 stands as a benchmark in reliability. Its fully sealed motor and housing laugh off mud, snow, and downpours—thanks to rugged weather sealing that outperforms many in this lineup. Paired with a 55-foot aircraft-grade steel cable, the longest in its series, it offers unmatched reach for remote recoveries, making it a top pick for professionals and extreme off-roaders. The three-stage planetary gear train delivers smooth, efficient power transfer, minimizing strain during prolonged pulls.

In field tests, the Vantage proved exceptionally dependable in wet, gritty conditions where other winches falter. The roller fairlead reduces cable friction, extending rope life and ensuring consistent spooling, though steel cable is heavier and riskier than synthetic if it snaps. Line speed isn’t blazing—Warn prioritizes steady, controlled performance over speed, which works well for cautious recoveries but feels sluggish in fast-paced scenarios. The wired remote is durable and safe, but lacks the convenience of wireless freedom offered by competitors.

Next to the OPENROAD 6000 lb model, the Warn trades raw power for superior sealing and proven longevity. It’s not the strongest or fastest, but it’s engineered to last—ideal for users who prioritize dependability over bells and whistles. If you’re running a side-by-side in harsh environments—think swamps, salt spray, or alpine mud—this winch offers the most trustworthy performance, with a build quality that justifies its premium standing.

The Zostera 2000lb winch is the lightweight champion for compact rigs and casual utility use. Weighing significantly less than beefier models, it’s perfect for small ATVs, utility trailers, or boat trailers where every pound matters. Its 50-foot Dyneema synthetic rope is a standout—ultra-light, high-strength, and far safer than steel under tension—making it ideal for users concerned about snap-back hazards during recovery. The three-stage planetary gear system ensures smooth, precise operation, even if the 2,000-pound limit restricts heavy-duty applications.

In real-world use, this winch excels at light hauling tasks—loading a dirt bike, pulling a stuck garden tractor, or anchoring a camper. It’s not built for deep mud recoveries or multi-ton loads, but for its class, it performs reliably. The wired remote is simple and rugged, though the lack of wireless control limits flexibility. Installation is a breeze thanks to color-coded wiring and standard mounting dimensions, reducing guesswork for DIYers. However, users should double-check bracket compatibility—some aftermarket UTVs may require adapters.

Compared to the TYT 3000 lb model, the Zostera sacrifices capacity and motor power for lighter weight and longer rope, making it better suited for minimalist or weight-sensitive builds. It’s not a recovery winch for serious off-roading, but for campers, hunters, or small farm operators, it offers a compact, safe, and efficient solution. If your needs are light and portability is key, this winch delivers the most agile and user-friendly experience in the lineup.

When raw power and all-weather readiness are the mission, the OPENROAD 6000 lbs winch is the undisputed king of performance. Its 2.7 HP motor and 166:1 gear ratio generate 6,000 pounds of pulling force—enough to extract even the largest side-by-sides from the mire. The IP67 waterproof rating ensures it shrugs off rain, dust, and temporary submersion, while the weather-sealed solenoids and circuit breakers protect against electrical failure in brutal conditions. This is not just a winch—it’s a recovery system built for war zones.

On the trail, it dominates tough recoveries with a no-load speed of 19.8 ft/min and a full-load speed of 2.9 ft/min—among the fastest in its class. The 50-foot 1/4-inch synthetic rope is thick, durable, and paired with a winch stopper to prevent dangerous backspin. The 50-foot wireless remote is rock-solid, with quick pairing and dual control via wired option—ideal for complex maneuvers. Mounting fits most major UTVs, though users should verify hole patterns beforehand.

Against the Rough Country 4,500 LB model, the OPENROAD offers greater capacity, faster speeds, and superior sealing—making it the best overall choice for serious off-roaders. While pricier, it delivers unmatched power and control, justifying its position as the top-tier option. For users who demand maximum strength, speed, and reliability, this winch sets the new standard—outperforming rivals in every critical metric.

Engineered for extreme off-road recovery, the Rough Country 4,500 LB winch is a trail-tested beast built to survive the worst Mother Nature can throw at it. Its 1.4 HP motor and 166:1 gear ratio deliver rapid, high-torque pulls, while the IP67 waterproofing ensures it keeps running after mud baths and river fords. The 50-foot premium synthetic rope is stronger than steel and far safer—absorbing energy on snap-back, a critical safety upgrade for high-risk recoveries.

In real-world testing, this winch excelled in deep mud, rocky climbs, and steep inclines, maintaining consistent power without overheating. The wireless remote and dash-mounted switch offer flexible control—letting you operate from inside the cab or on foot, depending on the situation. The aluminum hawse fairlead reduces friction and rope wear, extending lifespan. However, the wired remote cord is shorter than ideal, limiting mobility compared to OPENROAD’s longer options.

Next to the X-BULL 4500 lb model, the Rough Country offers better sealing, faster speeds, and superior hardware, making it the clear winner for hardcore trail use. It’s not the most powerful, but it’s optimized for off-road survival—perfect for overlanders, rock crawlers, and recovery teams. With best-in-class durability and safety, it delivers more confidence and control than nearly any other mid-range winch available.

The ZESUPER 4500 lb winch is a power-packed value leader that delivers premium features at a mid-tier price. With a 2.0 HP pure copper motor and 166:1 gear ratio, it matches or exceeds many competitors in pulling force and thermal resilience—ideal for users who want maximum power per dollar. The IP67 waterproof rating and UV-resistant nylon rope make it tough enough for snow, salt, and desert heat, while the auto-brake system locks loads instantly during power loss—a crucial safety feature often missing in budget models.

In performance tests, it handled repeated 4,000+ lb pulls with minimal heat buildup, thanks to heavy-gauge wiring and an upgraded solenoid. The 43-foot rope is slightly shorter than 50-foot standards, but still sufficient for most recovery scenarios. The dual remote system—wireless and wired—offers full flexibility, and the color-coded wiring allows installation in under 60 seconds, a huge win for DIYers. However, the shorter rope length may disappoint users expecting full trail reach.

Compared to the X-BULL 4500 lb model, the ZESUPER offers better waterproofing, faster installation, and superior safety tech, making it the best value for serious power. While the OPENROAD has higher capacity, this winch delivers 90% of the performance at a much lower cost. For budget-conscious off-roaders who still demand durable, high-power performance, the ZESUPER is the smartest pound-for-pound investment on the market.