When you need to pull a heavy load, you may be wondering whether a winch or a come along is the better option. To shed some light on the subject, we investigate the pros and cons of both options, which should help you make the right choice.
What Is A Come Along?
A Come Along is a hand-operated device used for pulling and lifting. It is sometimes also called a lever hoist or ratchet lever hoist. They are operated by a ratchet mechanism, using a lever to pull the load.
What Is A Winch?
A winch is a mechanical device used for pulling in or letting out a heavy load. It can be powered manually, electrically, hydraulically, or pneumatically. They use a spool (or drum) to wind the cable or rope in and out.
Winch Vs Come Along: Pros and Cons
Winches are a popular accessory for off-roaders thanks to their versatility and ability to pull heavy loads. For automotive use, winches are almost always powered and can be had in steel wire or synthetic rope versions.
Winch Pros:
- Electrically or hydraulically powered in automotive use
- Can pull very heavy loads. Our Tiger Shark 18000 Series has an impressive 18,000lb pull capacity
- Well suited for vehicle recovery, towing, and other heavy-duty tasks
- Can be had in both synthetic rope and steel wire options
Winch Cons:
- More expensive than a Come Along
- Cumbersome to transport – unless you opt for one of our portable winches
- Requires a power source and proper installation
Come Alongs are simpler and smaller than winches, and are more cost effective in certain cases.
Come-Along Pros:
- Cheaper than a winch
- More compact and easier to transport
Come-Along Cons:
- Manual operation makes it hard work
- Much lower maximum pulling capacity than a winch
- Not as versatile – especially for off-roading use
Which One Should You Choose?
A Come Along Is Best If:
- You need a portable tool for light-duty tasks.
- You cannot access an external power source easily.
- You only plan to use it occasionally.
A Winch Is Best If:
- You require a powerful tool for heavy-duty applications.
- You need to pull larger loads over longer distances.
- You prefer the convenience and accuracy of powered and/or portable operation
When it comes to equipping your Jeep, truck, or SUV, a winch is the only sensible option. It gives you the power and flexibility to tackle whatever the trail may throw at you. And, you can choose from a variety of Superwinch winches including portable units and ATV/UTV specific winches.
Superwinch Has The Perfect Winch For Any Task
We partner with Westin to provide top-quality winches and automotive aftermarket products. We have over 40 years in the accessories market, and all our products are designed and tested in the USA.
We back our equipment up with a comprehensive warranty policy. Got questions? Contact our expert team today for advice on the best winch for you.
