Today we're going to go ahead and look at the one of the industry titans in the offroad winch space, WARN. Widely considered to be the foremost pioneer in offroading with their innovative use of old Army Jeeps over 50 years ago, they have only gotten better.
When it comes to offroad equipment, WARN is a household name. Their attention to detail, customer support, and quality components are the best in the industry.
When you're stuck in the mud and your survival is on the line, you'll want to have the best there is.
You'll want WARN.
Now that you know our top pick for WARN winch, let's dive into the details.
For this review, we're going to look at the following metrics:
- Technical details such as power rating, weight of kit, intended use
- Overall quality of parts, ease of use, overall impression
- Value for the price point
- Included parts and accessories
- IP rating, durability
- Premium features and options
Let’s go over the top 5 WARN winch options available today.
At a Glance
Top 5 Best WARN Winches Review
Product Image | Product Name | Product Capacity | Product Rating | Product Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 10,000 lb. Capacity 3/8" x 90' Rope | |||
 | 10,000 lb. Capacity | |||
 | 5,500 lb. Capacity 1/4" x 50' Rope | |||
 | 3,500 lb. Capacity 3/16" x 50' Rope | |||
 | 1,000 lb. Capacity Cordless Steel Cable |
WARN Zeon vs. VR Evo?
As you may have noticed, there are two distinct choices within the WARN lineup.
We get this question a lot: what's the difference between the WARN ZEON and VR Evo?
The difference is in the details. The ZEON series has better components and thoughtful design. It uses premium materials and upgraded construction to improve usability and durability. This, of course, comes at a higher price.
WARN ZEON | WARN VR EVO |
|---|---|
Our Rating
Features & Key Technical Data
IP68 Waterproof rating
Advanced Wireless Remote
Synthetic cable
Conveniently, the WARN Evo 10-S kit comes with a wireless remote control. It's safer and no more manual operation required. You can use the remote to control your winch and get your work done from a convenient distance.
The three-stage planetary gear system features a gear ratio of 218:1. This feature will ensure fast and effective pulling. Different versions come in 8,000 and 12,000 lb. capacities. Meaning, you can choose the exact model you need.
There's also the option to switch over to a steel wire, if your situation calls for it. Overall, we recommend synthetic because it's lighter, doesn't fray, safer if it snaps, and easier to handle.
Besides, if you get the steel version and decide to switch over to the synthetic rope variant you'll have to pay for a conversion kit. This includes a new fairlead and ends up being more expensive than just getting the synthetic kit right of the bat.
The mounting bolt pattern for this winch is 10 x 4.5 inches. The control pack, however, can be relocated in case you're working in a tight space. Which is awesome.
If you're looking for something a little more premium, or if you plan to do use your winch frequently, you'll want to take a look at the ZEON version of this winch below.
- The best winch for the average consumer by WARN
- You get a wireless remote to operate the winch
- Ability to move the control pack for easier install
- Gear ratio of 218:1 makes work easier
- Limited lifetime mechanical warranty
- 7 year electrical warranty
- Made overseas
- Lacks all the premium features WARN offers
- Not built for heavy, frequent use
You’ll need some additional accessories while winching. Check out the suggested winch accessories list to make winching much safer, faster & easier.
Our Rating
Features & Key Technical Data
Advanced Wireless Remote
Synthetic cable
Made in the United States
We already gave the VR EVO a perfect 5-star rating, so how can we have another perfect score?
The answer lies in all the incredible premium features found within the ZEON lineup. You get all the great standard features found in the VR EVO with a lot of cherries on top. Let's get into it.
Not only does the ZEON come with more rope, it's fully upgraded from end to end. You get indicators to let you know when your line is about to come short, you get a better attachment point, and you can rest assured that with the patented internal drum anchor your line is fully secure.
Further improvements include the Aluminum and Zinc hybrid drum which is designed to not only be lighter but also run cooler. The improved gear train also lends towards a cooler operation which further reduces wear and increases the lifespan of the winch.
While both series of WARN winches are designed in the United States, only the ZEON is fully assembled here at home.
Due to high demand, these bad boys tend to go out of stock fairly often. So if you want one and see it available, don't wait - grab it before it's gone.
- The best winch in the entire lineup by WARN
- Same great standard features plus more
- Built to last repeated, frequent use
- Thoughtful design equals clean install
- Made in the U.S.
- Limited lifetime structural warranty
- 7 year mechanical warranty
- All those premium features add up and result in a larger sticker price.
- Can be out of stock frequently as demand fluctuates
Our Rating
Features & Key Technical Data
Advanced Digital Control
Synthetic cable
- Great features like the display that you might not expect to find for a UTV winch
- Plenty of power even for large UTVs
- Solid build quality
- Best rope there is comes with the kit
- Assembled in the U.S.
- Same great WARN warranty
- Mounting plate sold separately, so keep that in mind
Our Rating
Features & Key Technical Data
Advanced Digital Control
Synthetic cable
- Great features that help monitor the winching process
- Plenty of power for most ATVs
- Sturdy build quality
- Assembled in the U.S.
- Same great WARN warranty
- Mounting varies quite a bit in this class, we encourage you give WARN a call. Their customer support is very informative
Our Rating
Features & Key Technical Data
Two Batteries included
Pull and Release Control with Indicator
- Small but mighty - and great in a pinch
- Designed for those situations where a little mechanical help is needed
- Portable with two batteries means you can start work right away
- Same WARN quality we know and love
- Metal wire comes with some small hazards. Wear gloves
- Made in China, though we didn't see any noticeable quality issues
Final Comments
If you've made it this far - congratulations! There's a lot to look at when choosing the right winch and we hope this guide made it easier for you. Before you make the final call, make sure you're buying the right product.
Keep in mind the weight of your intended vehicle. Usually you want to have pulling power 1.50 times the weight of whatever is being pulled. If you neglect this, you might get stuck and stay stuck as your winch cries for help.
Overall, WARN is a premium brand. This means that the average price of their winches at a given pull rating is going to be higher than some alternatives. If you are looking to save some money, we recommend you take a look at our following guides:
These brands are not as well established as WARN or Smittybilt but a great alternative for price conscious shoppers.
FAQ
Where is WARN located?
Warn Industries' headquarters are in Clackamas, OR. They also have production facilities overseas.
Where are WARN winches made?
These winches are designed in Oregon and assembled either overseas or in the U.S. The premium ZEON lineup is designed and assembled in Oregon.
Are WARN winches waterproof?
Virtually all new WARN winches are IP68 waterproof. The ZEON series is also submersible underwater.
What is the best WARN winch for Jeep?
The best WARN winch for Jeeps is the 10-S Zeon, hands down. You may have to bump up to the 12-S if you need 12,000 lb. pull rating if you have a heavier setup. You can find the 12-S Zeon version here.
Does WARN have great customer service in case things go wrong?
Absolutely. Their customer service paces the industry, though parts may still take time to arrive due to global shipping delays.
