If you are in the countryside or your work requires wood splitting or cutting, you’re going to need the best log splitter available. If you’ve looked online, you’ve no doubt seen a wide range of types and models, but you just can’t settle for anything less than the best. To get the most value for your money, we’ve scoured the web for the top log splitters for your perusal. Now without further ado, let’s look at the top 5.
| Picture | Name | Price | Our Rating | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
Pow’ R’ Kraft 65575 | $$$ | 4.6 | Check Availability |
| Powerhouse XM-380 7-Ton Electric Hydraulic Log Splitter | $$ | 4.2 | Check Availability | |
| Boss Industrial ES7T20 Electric Log Splitter | $$ | 4.8 | Check Availability | |
| Pow’ R’ Kraft 65556 4-Ton 15 Amp Electric Log Splitter | $ | 4.8 | Check Availability | |
| Wen 56206 6-Ton Electric Log Splitter | $ | 4.2 | Check Availability |
>> Check Out Our Favorite Log Splitter <<
Pow’ R’ Kraft 65575 7-Ton 15 Amp 2-Speed Electric
Features
The log splitter reviews have given the Pow’ R’ Kraft 65575 good feedback, and you’re not likely to have any regrets with this. Although small in size compared to other log splitters, the Pow’ R’ Kraft 65575 packs a lot of power and can handle different types of logs.
In spite of the power however, this log splitter runs quietly, great if noise pollution is a concern. Designed for those who don’t have a lot of technical knowledge but still want an effective log splitter, the 65575 is suitable for a wide range of wood cutting and splitting projects and cuts through logs up to 12 inches in diameter and 20 in. long.
Features wise this log splitter comes with a 3 horsepower, 15 amp motor that is more than enough to handle large and wet logs. The splitting force is up to 7 tons, allowing the 65575 to go through thick logs with little trouble. As mentioned earlier, it isn’t that large in terms of dimensions, but as far as power goes it is more than enough. You don’t have to worry about longevity either: it is built from steel so extensive use isn’t going to result in wear and tear.
Specifications
- Motor: 15 Amps
- Horsepower: 3
- Splitter Force: 7 Tons
- Warranty: 2 Years
Pros
- Solidly built
- Has overload protection
- Can work through different types of wood
- Lots of power
Cons
- The two handed operation may need some getting used to
Powerhouse XM-380 7-Ton Electric Hydraulic Log Splitter
Features
When looking for the best log splitter for sale, give the Powerhouse XM some thought, something a lot of people have done. Its 3HP 2500W motor cuts through a hundred logs without trouble, and you’ll be spared the aches and pains that come with manual wood splitting.
While the Powerhouse carries a lot of power, it doesn’t compromise in the safety features as it has two handles, meaning your hands will feel comfortable even when logs are being split. The capacity is good for logs up to 12 inches in diameter and 20 inches long, so that should be more than enough to handle most logs. Operation is straightforward too so that’s not going to be a problem.
Power wise, the XM is a match for the many others out there, what with its 3500 RPM, 2500W, 3HP, 7 ton motor. Not only are the specs powerful but it’s solidly built, so no need to worry about power failure when you activate it. As this is electrically powered you don’t have to be concerned about gas running out while using it.
Its ram travel is 15.7 inches and at 104 lbs. not as heavy as other log splitters, making it more convenient to use. But apart from the motor, the Powerhouse XM is safe to use and won’t cause injuries. Of all the safety features built in, one of the most important is the two handle operation, as working with both hands minimizes risk of injury.
The Powerhouse XM retracts automatically when you take your hand off the lever, making it easy to load logs. The XM doesn’t lack in speed either as it takes just around six seconds to split 20 x 12 log.
Specifications
- Motor: 2500 watts
- Horsepower: 3
- Splitter Force: 7 Tons
- Warranty: 1 Year
Pros
- Powerful
- Can take on burls and knots
- Good safety features
- Easy to use
Cons
- The wedge could be wider
Boss Industrial ES7T20 Electric Log Splitter
Features
Any electric log splitter that calls itself the boss should have the power to back it up, and this one certainly does. Unlike other log splitters, you just need one hand to use the Boss, and it comes with an automatic ram that enhances its level of efficiency. As many of its users have pointed out, its auto ram return is valuable when it comes to cutting down the time it takes to split logs when compared to other log splitters.
At a little over 120 pounds, the Boss is quite portable, and transportation is made easier by the fact that it comes with wheels. The 2 HP electric motor is powerful and is easy to use, with the push power button providing assurance the Boss starts automatically without causing problems.
The hydraulic system is just as well thought of and increases efficiency, and there’s automatic ram return as well. When it comes to performance the Boss lives up to its name and splits logs easily. You probably won’t need to make any adjustments while using it, but if the need arises the Boss makes it easy enough to do, making this one of the best log splitters.
Specifications
- Motor: 15000 watts
- Horsepower: 3
- Splitter Force: 7 Tons
- Warranty: Commercial Users: 90 Days / Domestic Users: 2 Years
Pros
- Provides good value
- Powerful motor
- Construction is solid
Cons
- Not for vertical applications
Pow’ R’ Kraft 65556 4-Ton 15 Amp Electric Log Splitter
Features
The 65556 is being advertised as a log splitter that will make your life easier, and it certainly lives up to the hype. As far as electric logs go the Pow R’ Kraft is capable of cutting through all kinds of logs (customer reviews online bear this out), and it does so without tiring you out.
The 65556 is easy to use and the handles provide comfort and safety at the same time, and in spite of its power and performance the 65556 gets the job done. Going into the features, this log splitter comes with a 1500 watt electric motor that can handle most logs with little difficulty. The maximum splitting capacity is 10 x 20 (l x dia.), though some have been able to split 12 inch diameter logs.
The design makes it comfortable to hold and use, and construction is solid steel, providing assurance that’s this is going to last a long time. You will also be pleased to note that it comes with a packaging system designed to make transportation easier. Last but not the least, there’s protection from overload so that’s another plus.
Specifications
- Motor: 15 amps
- Horsepower: 3
- Splitter Force: 3 Tons
- Warranty: 2 Years
Pros
- Portable
- Powerful
- Quiet
- Solid construction
Cons
- Instruction manual could have been more comprehensive
Wen 56206 6-Ton Electric Log Splitter
Features
One of the best log splitters for the money, the Wen runs on electrical power so you don’t have to keep buying expensive gas. Moreover, the Wen is very capable when it comes to splitting logs and quickly at that. In fact it’s the speed that has proven to be the Wen’s biggest selling point, and that’s not surprising as everyone wants a powerful but quick log splitter. Since the tool is compatible with standard power outlets compatibility won’t be an issue.
The Wen has a 2 HP electric motor, and since it’s capable of using standard household current, power usage isn’t a problem. Just like with most log splitters today, the Wen has two handles: you are required to hold both while using the log splitter, and while it may take a bit of getting used to, it helps in preventing accidents. And it really isn’t hard to use the Wen since it’s portable, and the 2 year warranty ensures its durability.
Of course what it all comes down to is performance, and the Wen does what it’s supposed to do and that’s cut and split logs quickly and safely. If you’ve been cutting wood with an axe, the difference will be like night and day. The 15 amp, 2 HP motor is powerful and puts on 12,000 lbs. of force which allows it to split logs up to 10 inches in diameter and 20.5 inches long.
There is a 4″ by 4″ push plate joined to the ram (15-1/2″) that draws the logs in the 4.5†wedge, splitting logs safely and quickly. There is also emphasis on safety and that is obvious from the handle design. If you remove one of your hands, the ram goes back to its starting spot, effectively reducing the chances of incurring an injury.
Overall, the Wen is a very effective log splitter that does what it should. Its use of electrical power spares you the expense of buying gas, and you don’t have to buy batteries either. All you need to do is plug the unit in and it’s ready to go. If your job requires moving the log splitter, the 6†tires gets you there.
Specifications
- Motor: 15 amps
- Horsepower: 2
- Splitter Force: 6 Tons
- Warranty: 2 Years
Pros
- Powerful features
- Great value for the money
- Compact
- Moving around is relatively easy
Cons
- You need to go through the whole manual for optimum use
Types of Log Splitters
If you want to know the best log splitter for your task and budget, you need to know the types available and how they differ from one another.
- Gas Log Splitters: these provide the highest splitting capacity level, with the range around 8 to 45 tons. These are among the most powerful log splitters today, but they are also the most expensive both in the initial purchase and the need for gas. A typical gas log splitter is towed via a trailer hitch for transportation.
While they’re powerful, the cost makes them impractical for home use, and you need to be careful when choosing as ventilation is important. Unlike electrical log splitters, these gas powered machines generate fumes, hence the need for proper ventilation.
- Electric Log Splitters: these are more affordable and the most popular owing to their features and reliability. The splitting capacity is around 4 to 20 tons, not as powerful as gas log splitters but more than enough to handle the logs you need to cut and split at home. Another advantage of these models is you can tow them with no problem.
For many though, the best part about electrical log splitters is cost efficiency: you don’t need to pay for gas or batteries, because as long as there is an electrical supply the machine will keep running.
- Manual Log Splitters: manual log splitters are the cheapest, but they’re also least effective when it comes to splitting capacity, maxing out at 14 tons. A standard manual log splitter is run by a 2-speed pump and known for being portable and lightweight.
Because manual log splitters are not as powerful as their gas or electrical counterparts, you need to consider the effort and time required for splitting logs before buying one. If you don’t split a lot of logs, a manual log splitter could do, but if you’re a frequent user, an electrical log splitter is more suitable.
For further comparison:
- Force (tons): Manual: 6-14, Electric, 4-20; Gas, 8-45
- Cycle time: Manual 1-3 minutes, Electric 2-15 seconds, Gas 8-17 seconds
- Cylinder Size: Manual n/a, Electric 3.5 inches, Gas 3-5 inches
The splitter size also determines what types of wood the log splitter can split up. The harder the wood, the more force will be required. Splitter size is measured in tons, with a 4 ton splitter force capable of splitting a 6-inch seasoned wood. A 7 ton can handle double the 4 ton, and a 16 ton can split a 12 inch wide log and so on.
Conclusion
Deciding what is the best log splitter involves more than just looking at the price or the specs. It’s also about figuring out what is best for your requirements at the moment and in the future. Hopefully with the reviews and buying tips presented here, making the right choice will be easier for you.
