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The Best Anchor Windlasses for Different Types of Boats

Written by J. Harvey / Fact checked by S. Numbers

The best anchor windlass, simply put, makes any sailor’s life less of a challenge. Once you pair with the most suitable windlass anchor system for your boating setup, it would seem like the perfect marriage. Once it starts hauling and lowering the anchor for you, you just can’t do sailing and fishing the same way without it.

Anyone with back-breakingly heavy anchors should definitely consider an electric windlass for that sole reason. The best ones out there not only save plenty of effort and time but also power. Here are three factors you should not miss when deciding:

• Pulling Power: Concerning a good anchor windlass’s reliability, it should be able to have adequate, if not abundant, pulling power. Windlasses are more powerful than most winches, so they normally win the anchor winch vs windlass battle when it comes to that. Additionally, that’s why you see a hydraulic anchor windlass on larger ships. So, you should make the most out of it.
• A 24 volt anchor windlass is sufficiently powerful for most applications. However, you should really look at the total number of pounds it can handle. The higher that limit, the more powerful.
• Durability: Anything mostly or entirely made of stainless steel or is genuinely marine-grade is guaranteed to last for years and is saltwater-friendly. It has to be adequately waterproof to protect the motor. What’s good is that most of the brands, especially the ones featured here, get this right. If you’re going to settle for a used anchor windlass for sale, never overlook these facts because they dictate the remaining mileage you can get out of them.
• Ease of Installation: Installation, in terms of windlasses, is something you don’t want to mess up as much as possible. After all, who would want to end up with five extra holes in a vessel just because they got the orientation wrong? Horizontal windlasses tend to be easier to install because everything is set up above deck. That being said, it helps to have clear, complete instructions.

It’s safe to say that you’re looking for one yourself. If so, I suggest you read my boat windlass reviews, which expound on my various experiences with the windlasses I’ve tried over the years. I can say the same for other seafarers I’ve gotten to discuss these handy tools with.

• Anchor lock feature
• Vertical, compact design
• 5-year warranty

• Superior power
• Install not too complicated
• Corrosion-resistant

• Built to last
• Consistent performance
• Adequately powerful

Table of Contents

1. Lewmar 6670011108-312 Vertical Windlasses

2. five oceans pacific 1000 anchor windlass, 3. maxwell rc8812v windlass, 4. lewmar 6656811967-303 horizontal windlass, 5. pactrade pdsa0317 electric anchor windlass, 6. lewmar 66910441 windlass, 7. five oceans atlantic 600 anchor windlass, 8. lewmar 6656411108-102 windlass, 9. powerwinch p77727 anchor windlass, 10. five oceans horizontal windlass, 11. maxwell hrcff812v windlass, other factors to consider when choosing an anchor windlass, why is an anchor winch called a windlass, how to install an anchor windlass, how do you use a windlass anchor, how do you maintain the windlass anchor, will a windlass pull rope, top 11 anchor windlass reviews.

A Lewmar creation that fits the high-quality bill, I can’t be more impressed by the fact that it’s saltwater-friendly and extraordinarily space-saving. It performs as expected and comes with a 5-year warranty.

My first introduction to Lewmar was one of their winches. It didn’t take long for me to try out their windlass anchor kit partly because of the performance I got from the winch on my smaller boats, and the fact that I needed support for anchoring on my larger center console. I was instantly hooked by the incredibly polished and solid construction of this bad boy.

That means I don’t have to worry about it getting damaged for a long time, and the 5-year warranty only added to that. And sure enough, I’ve been using this for 7 years and counting, and it still hasn’t shown signs of malfunctioning. I did encounter a few hitches recently like the anchor not pulling up properly, but most of them are because of faulty control that I only needed to replace.

I frequently take my center console to Cape Cod, and I love to do so precisely because this windlass has consistently made anchoring a breeze for me. It’s adequately powerful as it can handle 700 pounds, and I particularly appreciate the anchor lock feature, which keeps my anchor steady when deployed.

The installation is just good, not overly easy, and not too hard. You have to be sure of the cabling. The vertical orientation fits it right in the limited space of the pulpit, and the general design is not without its inherent appeal.

• Stainless steel, rust-resistant, and salt-water friendly construction
• Not that hard to install
• Manually activated free-fall feature

This marine windlass is a paragon of power and durability. Performance-oriented doesn’t even begin to describe the kind of close to automatic, no-nonsense anchoring you get out of this.

I’ve only been using this windlass anchoring system in my Virginia Beach and Lake Erie excursions. I installed it on one of my new cabin cruisers, a 30-foot beauty that I intended to use more for fishing. I reckoned I needed a more powerful windlass that’s equally durable.

Almost immediately, I considered Lewmar and Five Oceans. This 1,000W one stood out to me because of its thicker construction. It’s evidently corrosion-resistant, but given the short time I’ve used it, I can’t confirm this 100% yet.

However, if we’re going to pit power against durability, which is two of its main strengths, I’d choose the former any time. In almost all my fishing trips, I’ve had to deal with loads and loads of seaweed. I mean the kind that gets stuck and adds an extra 200 pounds to the heft. Well, all of that’s just a piece of cake for this monster – no struggle, whatsoever! And it does so consistently.

It’s not that hard to install but you just have to be mindful of the template. Don’t use the arrow as a reference and only stick to the dotted line. I like that, for the price, you get a footswitch included, which can be installed on the bow or console.

• Comes complete and ready to be installed
• Free fall manually activated

A heavy-duty, notably powerful anchor windlass, I like this Maxwell windlass for its versatility when it comes to the different chains that it can accommodate and the fact that you can retrofit it without the need for disassembly.

This is another brand that I have a lot of faith in. It’s my go-to brand if I’m aiming for something to handle any kind of anchor setup I have in place. The fact that it supports a 5/16 chain and ⅝ rope combination highlights its heavy-duty quality. It’s able to handle 500 feet of anchor rode without floundering, and the retrieval is fairly quick.

I’ve taken a 2004 Carver 460 voyager with this windlass to many of my Lake Erie fishing trips. It has only ever given me a great performance in all those times. It’s the kind of windlass that delivers, once you get it properly set up, to the point that relying on it for most of your anchoring becomes automatic.

I’d be lying if I said that I didn’t love the marine-grade stainless steel the moment I laid my eyes on this. I’ve been using mine for more than four years, and it still retains its shine and has no sign of rust damage. You can expect as much from a household brand like this.

The combination of power, durability, and versatility leads to outstanding reliability. I don’t remember any instance this struggled with all the extra seaweed and muck it hauled on board.

• Works well with
• Installation instructions are too concise

This Lewmar horizontal windlass provides a solid option for those with minimal deck space. It has decent pulling power and a free fall feature, while also being space-saving, durable and not hard to install.

I bought this years ago for one of my very first sailboats. It’s a 25-footer that I cruised with on an almost monthly basis. I had plenty of time back then, and this windlass definitely made boating life easy for me and fueled my passion for it more.

I like that the kit it comes in gives you everything you need. I didn’t have to buy separate mounting studs for the installation. It also came with push-button control and a toggle switch for more convenience. Overall, I can say that it’s one of the first user-friendly windlasses I’ve used.

Installation went fairly swiftly because I already have experience installing Lewmar. The brand didn’t pull any punches when lending an extra hand because they even included a template for drilling holes and mounting to accommodate the rode and chain. It took less than an hour, which is quick for most DIY jobs.

Its power is enough for most medium-sized anchors and below. Don’t expect it to compete with higher-end options out there, but don’t underestimate, too. While it did struggle with seaweed on rare occasions, they’re fairly mild issues that got resolved quickly without hiccups. I only needed to do the usual pull-up trick when the anchor snags.

I know that most horizontal windlasses naturally save more space than their vertical counterparts. To me, this one saves even more because of the overall compact design. I like that it manages seawater well, too. My own unit has been splashed with it thousands of times, but it held up well until I had no other choice but to replace it due to its age.

• Complete kit
• User-friendly and adequately powerful
• Saltwater-friendly
• Relatively easy to install
• Space-saving design
• Free fall feature included but needs to be activated manually

This, to me, is a budget-friendly windlass anchor winch for those who like to do solo fishing on a pontoon or any other similar small vessel. It’s made of marine-grade materials, can handle anchors weighing no more than 20 pounds, and is reliable on the whole.

This windlass reminded me more of a winch than a traditional manual windlass. I’d say it fits the windless anchor winch label perfectly with that considered.

I like to do recreational fishing from time to time. In such cases, I prefer to bring a more solo-oriented vessel with a winch for obvious reasons. For that, I often rely on a winch, but the fact that this is advertised as a windlass definitely caught my eye.

Right off the bat, I was expecting it to be more powerful. Well, while it did have sufficient pulling power, it’s not exactly the output of a typical windlass. I’m really more inclined to think it’s a winch, since it’s, more or less, the same in construction and capacity.

That being said, it’s reliable, at best. I often use a grapnel anchor with it, and the good thing is that the lake near my home mainly has a rocky bottom. It does its job without giving me the usual hassles (e.g. free-spooling), and to me, that’s the most important thing.

The rope it comes with is also worth praising for its overall soundness. It kept me steady in all the times I used it. I did inevitably replace it with a monofilament fishing rode, which allowed me to work with a longer line.

• Made of durable, marine-grade materials
• Adequate pulling power for light anchors
• Proven reliability
• Rode can be changed
• Limited to small vessels

Another windlass for small boats that’s made by a recognized brand, this Lewmar creation fits lightweight anchoring purposes . It does the job well and quickly, especially if anchor reeling is the topic. What’s even better is that you can get it for far fewer bucks than others made by this brand.

A friend of mine has this on his 22’ Grady Offshore. I’ve gone fishing on his boat numerous times already to know this little gem of a windlass’s remarkable performance. I particularly like that it’s quick to bring up any anchor, assuming it’s within the weight limit, that you hook up to it.

We like to frequent Lake Erie with his vessel, and for all the extensive time we’ve spent fishing, it still hasn’t shown any signs of significant salt damage. That’s four or more years of regular use, as far as healthy fishing habits are concerned. I credit the entire stainless steel construction of the cover, and my friend echoes the same thoughts.

• Good value for the price
• Highly affordable
• Powerful anchor pulling capability for its size
• Proven durability
• Included rope tends to wind up

If you’re aiming for maximum quality, this windlass is sure to deliver. To me, it’s just as powerful as the other Five Oceans windlass I own and has the same kind of toughness, both of which can be enjoyed for less than a few hundred dollars.

This is one of my first experiences with what can be deemed as a truly high-end windlass. I say that in the highest sense of the term. After all, I’ve yet to own a windlass, other than the one from the same brand, that has this much durability.

It’s been on my 33’ center console for close to eight years, and it hasn’t shown any notable signs of depreciation. There’s zero presence of rust, and I have only been doing minimal maintenance on it through the years. I’ve taken it to numerous saltwater and freshwater fishing trips, and it has only ever given me all the anchoring conveniences I wanted from it.

This kit is slightly cheaper because the windlass, as a whole, is less powerful than the others that it shares a product line with. It’s only 600W compared to the 1,000W found in other windlasses. But, of course, that kind of output is still no pushover compared to windlass products available nowadays.

• Proven to last for years
• Reliable performance
• More budget-friendly option from a high-end brand
• Made entirely of stainless steel
• Costs thrice as much as most windlasses featured here

With an automatic free fall feature and powerful motor, this one fits the bill if you also happen to be working with a relatively larger vessel. It’s brimming with durability, too.

I needed a windlass for my bigger 36’ Sportsman boat, which I and my buddies love to take during our annual and semi-annual get-togethers. I instantly loved its free fall feature since it’s automatic. If you tend to anchor a lot like me and are familiar with the best spots to drop it, you’ll love the unrivaled benefits of this feature.

It’s been with me for close to three years now. As of this writing, it has weathered most of the storms that it faced, which are relatively fewer compared to other vessels I’ve manned. The stainless steel finish is as sleek as it is sturdy, so I have no complaints there whatsoever.

Its performance and power are two of its main strengths, to me. For one, unlike other products I’ve used, it has never given me a rode headache (i.e. the rode ending up in a tangled mess when I pull it up). Secondly, it handles my heavier-weight anchors and the extra load that comes with them without struggling too much.

• Automatic free fall
• Suitable for larger boats and heavier anchors
• Sleek and durable stainless construction
• Prevents rode from piling up
• Crank has to be turned manually at times

This windlass will wow you with its free fall capabilities. Add to that the decent pulling power and the superb durability, and you pretty much get a solid windlass that gets the job done.

Precision and quick free falling when anchoring will always be my thing, and I love that this windlass has always outshone the other ones I’ve owned when it comes to that feature. I use it on my 35’ center console with a 30-pound Danforth anchor. It drops anchor as quickly as it advertises.

Take note that you need a relatively heavy anchor to enjoy speedy and precise anchor drops every time. I’ve tried it out with a 25-pound Danforth, and it’s just not the same. That’s one complaint I have, but I know the exact reason why that’s the case, so it’s still a minor issue.

The pulling power is decent, but it’s to be expected given its capacity. It’s not too strong and not too weak, just enough to raise my heavy anchor every time. What sealed the deal for me was that it never once jammed in all the two years I’ve used it.

I can say the same for the construction and the overall durability. It’s still great, but not too outstanding. I appreciate the inclusion of stainless steel on parts that require the most rust protection.

• Excellent free fall feature
• Decent pulling power and durability
• Has never jammed based on experience
• Affordable option
• Needs a heavy anchor to make the most out of the free fall feature

Five Oceans remains one of my favorite brands precisely because of products like this. It’s generous in power and durability, which equates to better reliability. Design-wise, it’s hard to beat.

I really appreciate the fact that this windlass did not take long for me to install. It only took me less than an hour to set it up on my sportfishing boat, and yes, that already includes the wiring. That’s way less time I spent on other windlass setups without relying on professional help, and I mainly credit the kit it comes in, which gave me everything I needed.

How does it fare when it comes to performance? I placed most of my bets on the motor when I bought it, and I’m glad I did because it’s noticeably powerful. I can’t name plenty of other brands that pack the same amount of punch in pulling power, and I’m talking about handling seaweed-laden 30-pound Danforth anchors with relative ease when I say this.

When it comes to durability, it delivers precisely what I’ve come to expect from this brand. This is one of my newer windlasses made by this brand, but I’m already confident that it will last for years because of the stellar stainless steel used. I just hope I can say the same for the motor.

• Easy to install
• Great for those with minimal locker space for the rode
• Excellent power
• Superb durability
• No free fall feature

It’s hard to not have favorites, especially once you’ve given this windlass a try. It has an automatic free fall feature, marine-grade construction, and an exceptionally powerful motor.

In most cases when Lewmar or other brands fail me, Maxwell almost always manages to save my fishing trips for me. That has been the pattern for me in recent years, and I can safely say that this Maxwell offering can vie for the top spot at any time. For one, it’s got the power and all the features and perks I’m looking for.

I love that you can activate the automatic free fall from the helm. The power-down option is just as good, but if you like to save lots of time like me, this windlass practically does so for you with its free fall option. It has few rivals when it comes to that.

I’ve been using this windlass for a good portion of five years already. It served as a replacement for an old Lewmar on my center console. In all that time, it has never snagged the anchor once, and if it did, it’s more because of my choice of anchoring spot than anything else.

Of course, I can’t forget about the power. It’s the kind that pulls 35-pound anchors without any issue. That, plus the equally commendable toughness of the materials completes the entire thing for me.

Lastly, its install instructions are just as complete. These are the exact reasons why if this ever becomes available with a discount, it’s certainly a good windlass for sale – if not entirely excellent.

• Automatic free fall feature
• Exceptional power and durability
• Excellent and hassle-free control setup
• Uncomplicated installation
• No snags based on first-hand experience
• Plastic chain stripper tends to warp quickly

What, to me as an avid sailor and boater, is the right electric anchor windlass? I usually don’t depart from these factors:

I can’t get enough windlasses with free fall features because they save me a lot of time and effort. I do only use it on lakes whose bottoms I’m already familiar with and make sure that I’m using an anchor with enough heft.

Automatic free fall means you get to activate the feature without having to manually trigger it on the built-in switch attached to the windlass. You need to be able to do it remotely through the helm if you want the best kind of convenience. Manual is also good, but you have to always be near the windlass to activate it.

Locker Space

You want to make sure the windlass you’re using can accommodate the entire rode with regards to the total capacity of your locker space. In most cases, horizontal windlasses take up less space than their vertical counterparts.

Availability of Spare Parts

This one’s often overlooked. If you’re planning to buy an aftermarket windlass anchor system for cheaper prices, you’ll most likely have to buy a separate part to replace a broken one (e.g. a damaged motor or something more specific like the chain stripper). Not all brands offer spare parts nor can they guarantee that supplies will always be available.

The Different Types of Anchor Windlasses

There are only two different types of anchor windlasses. They’re commonly classified based on their orientation, which more or less, affects the anchor windlass operation.

• Horizontal Windlasses

These are preferred because their rodes tend to take up less locker space and are usually easier to install since everything is set up above deck. This means you won’t have to make a hole on your deck to install it.

• Vertical Windlasses

Vertical windlasses are not without their own unique range of benefits. For one, they take up less space on the deck, and there are brands that capitalize on that by making their products more compact. Another benefit is that the chain and rode tend to have a more secure wrap around the gypsy due to the orientation.

Benefits and Drawback of Using an Anchor Windlass

As far as most boaters can tell, an anchor windlass assists you in all your anchoring needs. The way it makes raising the anchor less of a hurdle to overcome each time you go out fishing or cruising on your own underscores its value.

If you have a poor back or any condition that lowers your ability to haul an anchor, a windlass is a must. Overall, it makes fishing on your own always viable and enjoyable.

The most immediate drawback for me and many boaters is the cost. For context, let’s look at one of the most expensive Lofrans windlass products available today. It sells for a whopping $4,250. $1,000, which is the average cost of the windlasses I’ve used over the years, is not exactly cheap as well.

This is often a misconception or mislabeling because both fulfill the same function of raising and lowering the anchor. That’s why some brands label their windlass as a winch and vice versa. A windlass is different from a winch in that it accommodates more rode combinations and a chain, while a winch is fairly limited. The same goes for the power: expect windlasses to be more heavy-duty.

This depends, as I’ve said, on the orientation. Horizontal windlasses often only need to be screwed onto the deck and would therefore require you to drill holes in the right positions. Vertical windlasses have motors that will require you to make room below deck and will therefore need more changes that entail dismantling a portion of your deck.

The procedure step-by-step is an entirely different topic altogether. It’s always best to refer to the manufacturer’s instructions. If you want an actual demonstration, I suggest you watch this video.

Whether you’re controlling the windlass remotely through the helm or on its built-in switch, it’s fairly straightforward. There will be buttons for lowering and raising the anchor. You only need to push down to lower the anchor to your desired depth and push up to raise it.

If there’s a free fall feature, it’s most likely triggered by a specific set of actions that will be instructed to you by the manufacturer. Otherwise, it may be done with a single button push. Once you’ve lowered it to your desired depth, you may use a lanyard or a safety strap to keep the rode or chain locked in place.

Most windlasses are built with durability in mind, so you don’t have to worry too much about maintenance. This is especially true if they’re made of stainless steel. A little polishing and cleaning on a monthly basis will suffice for these kinds of windlasses.

That being said, it won’t hurt to check the motor for any signs of water damage from time to time. Inspect the wiring for anything amiss. Lubricate most of the moving parts to keep the operation smooth. Lastly, don’t forget to check the rode you’re using and make sure it’s still achieving the right amount of tension and hasn’t been damaged before setting sail again.

No. It’s not compatible with rope. Many brands like to label their winch as a windlass, and the former can definitely work with rope. That has probably only led to this confusion.

What can I say about the windlasses I’ve tried and featured here? It’s that you don’t have to pay $2,000 or more just to get one that will make your solo fishing and boating trips a whole lot more convenient. At the end of the day, the best anchor windlass, to me, satisfies that factor while still managing to bring its much-coveted benefit and do so for a long time.

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• Digital edition

Electric anchor windlasses: a guide to the latest tech

• Sam Fortescue
• March 7, 2022

Electric anchor windlasses are becoming more affordable and can take the strain out of cruising shorthanded, says Sam Fortescue

Pulling power is the first consideration when you a looking to upgrade your manual windlass to electric. Credit: Muir

There’s no conversion kit for ageing manual windlasses, so you’ll have to buy a complete electric unit if you’re upgrading.

Luckily, they are cheaper than electric winches . Prices start around £600 for Lewmar’s V700, including switches and circuit breakers.

Pulling power is the first consideration.

An electric anchor windlass should be able to pull four times the weight of the chain and the anchor combined.

On heavy displacement boats or for bluewater peace-of-mind, look for an extra safety factor to account for getting the boat moving.

Some electric windlasses can be integrated with your boat’s existing instruments so you can monitor the anchor from the helm

For a 45-footer, that means you’re probably looking at 600-800kg of pulling power. Don’t set much store by the wattage rating on the side of the electric anchor windlass.

‘We could label the 1,000W motor as 1,500W, but run time would be less than 10min before excessive heat was built up,’ explains Stephen Baker at Maxwell Marine.

‘At stall load these motors can absorb 5kW of electrical power! Simply comparing manufacturers’ stated “wattage” is fairly meaningless.’

Each manufacturer has its own design features. Lewmar’s VX and HX lines, for instance, offer a composite gypsy (the toothed wheel that grips the chain and/or rode).

Meanwhile, Maxwell says its ‘Wave’ design gypsy grips rope rode much better and without the damage caused by jammer systems.

Lofrans offers a beautiful stainless-steel windlass with a particularly small footprint, the SX, plus it has stainless steel bearings and a built-in magnet for connection to a chain counter.

Windlass switching

Electric anchor windlasses are all ‘push button’. The question here is more where that button is and how it works.

The simplest and most bombproof system uses a pair of high-current foot buttons on deck to control the windlass.

As they are rated for a big slug of amps, the power to the windlass can pass straight through them, with no need for failure-prone relay switches.

Most people like the functionality of a remote control, however – that box with rubber buttons on a curly wire coming out of the anchor locker.

This requires a control box and a relay system that will make a connection in the heavy cables that supply the windlass.

Continues below…

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It is wise to pair it with the basic foot buttons, to give a failsafe. There is also a third option.

Muir electric anchor windlasses come with a three year guarantee. Credit: Muir

Manufacturers have taken the remote-control idea to its logical conclusion by designing an up/down button for mounting at the helm, so that you can raise and lower the anchor without leaving the cockpit.

Italy’s Quick goes further still with a wireless module that allows you to keep a key fob in your pocket or in a holster by the helm for raising and lowering the hook.

Muir has a similar capability for its smaller recreational windlasses, as does Lofrans (with an optional chaincounter built-in) and Maxwell.

Quick in fact takes connectivity to a whole different level with its QNN network, which allows its windlasses to be integrated with your chartplotter.

A black-box ‘brain’ sits between any Quick equipment and an HTML5 output that will feed straight into a Quick app on your multifunction display via an ethernet connection.

Most modern MFDs from Garmin, Raymarine and B&G are HTML5 compatible. It means that you can monitor windlass use and control the unit all from the MFD’s touchscreen.

The system also integrates with Quick bow-thrusters, battery chargers and underwater lights. ‘QNN offers practicality and comfort in the management of Quick products installed on board,’ explains Andy Sims of Quick UK.

‘Checking the status of the battery chargers and stabilisers or managing the lighting of certain areas becomes easier and quicker, just like manoeuvring on the quay or raising the anchor from the same location.’

Electric anchor windlasses: main brands

Credit: Lewmar

Prices start from £600. VX and HX ranges feature a composite gypsy.

www.lewmar.com

Credit: Maxwell

A ‘wave’ design gypsy grips a rope rode without damaging it, as well as holding chain.

www.maxwellmarine.com

Credit: Quick

Quick winches can be controlled via keyfob remotes, and even via MFD chartplotters.

www.quickitaly.com

Credit: Lofrans

Stainless steel and a small footprint are aesthetically pleasing.

Lofrans also offers remote controls.

www.lofrans.com

Credit: Muir

Muir is distinguished by its Italian gear box assemblies and three-year warranty.

www.muir.com.au

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How to Select an Anchor Windlass for your Boat

The Right Anchor Windlass Depends on:

A few factors. However, having the correct anchor windlass will make even the most difficult anchoring situations much easier and safer. A few factors you'll need to know before purchasing a windlass are: boat size and type, displacement, anchor weight, anchor rode and hardware weight, and chain size. What about anchoring environment? The anchor windlass is responsible for pulling the weight of the ground tackle, to offset the effects of bad weather, the boats main engines do all the heavy lifting.

Lofrans offers a Windlass Selection Guide Here

Choosing Between Manufacture Brands:

Both Lofrans and Muir make the best marine windlasses you can choose from. At Seatech Marine, we only offer windlasses that we can fully support and know full well the customer will be satisfied. We have serviced and installed every brand of windlass here in the boating community of San Diego, CA for more than a decade and Lofrans and Muir windlass are the only ones we will offer. The difference comes down to preference but there is a wide selection for every boat type. We also offer the E-Z Anchor Puller .

How Will the Windlass Be Powered?

You can purchase a manual, DC or AC powered windlass, or a Hydraulic powered windlass. Our most commonly sold boat windlasses are the DC Powered units.

You can choose a manual windlass , where you provide the energy; they are less expensive, easier to install, and require neither the wiring nor the plumbing of electric and hydraulic windlasses.

Electric windlasses are the most power anchor windlasses for sailboats and powerboats. They supply generous lifting power to make anchoring a simple task of pressing a foot switch or pushing a button. The electric windlasses are fairly compact and can typically be powered using the boat's existing electrical system.

Hydraulic windlasses supply the most power and are extremely efficient. They require a central hydraulic system within the yacht to power them. Because of this reason, they are typically installed on large yachts.

Rope/Chain Combination or All Chain?

Most people will fit rope/chain combination anchor rode. The anchor rode usually combines a mid-length piece of chain (10-50') spliced to a high quality 3 strand anchor line. Most of Lofrans vertical windlasses can now use combination rode on a single gypsy or chainwheel. Most of the horizontal windlasses can retrieve both chain and rope. A primary advantage to having rope/chain is having less weight in the bow of the boat.

All chain rode is much easier to retrieve for all windlasses. Chain will not not kink like rope, making the retrieval a faster process. The chain sits in the pocket of the gypsy much easier and because of the weight it will fall into place in the chain locker. Chain is much stronger making it highly abrasion resistant, but is more expensive, heavier, and can collect mud.

Vertical or Horizontal Windlass:

Vertical windlasses are the most popular choice because there is less of an obtrusive presence on your fore deck. The motor and gearbox are both mounted below deck while the chain wheel is placed on a vertical driveshaft above deck. Vertical windlasses typically retrieve combination rode with a single gypsy. The rode makes a full 180° wrap around the chain wheel and feeds through a deck pipe into the anchor locker at a 90° turn. Vertical windlasses should be used when there is enough room above the available rod fall and the windlass motor. The vertical windlasses usually require a fairly large hole to be cut in the deck for the gearbox. One of our most popular vertical windlasses is the Lofrans Project 1000 for instance.

Horizontal windlasses mount the chain gypsy and capstan on either side of the on deck windlass. The gear box and motor are typically installed inside the winch housing above deck. Which means only you only need to cut a whole for the chain pipe, wire and thru-bolts. This leaves plenty of room for the anchor fall in small or unusually shaped anchor lockers. The horizontal windlass usually retrieves rope and chain separately which means most horizontal windlass owners use chain only.

Sizing Considerations:

The anchor windlass is intended to retrieve the anchor and ground tackle, not to pull or drag the boat. A typical rule of thumb is to take the total weight of the anchor and ground tackle and multiply by a factor of three. (for example a boat with a 22lb anchor and 40lbs of anchor rode and hardware would select a windlass with a power rating of more than 62*3= 186lbs). Each windlass that we offer will have the power rating listed in the specifications.

We also offer a sizing chart to help you get started on selecting a windlass based on your boat length. It is merely only meant to be a tool, you should first contact our anchor windlasses experts on our contact page.

 What Accessories Do I Need?

• Handheld Remotes (wired or wireless)
• Footswitches included
• Circuit Breakers
• Toggle Switch UP/Down
• Panel Mount Remote Contro l (with Chain Counter) (Wireless and Wired)
• Chain stopper
• Anchor Roller
• Anchor Chain Accessories (Chain Markers, swivels, etc.)

Best Anchor Windlass 2021 Electric Windlass

The windlass makes operating a boat  so much easier . This age-old invention has helped bring up anchors for centuries.

Today’s anchor windlasses are electrically operated and designed to quickly drop and lift your boat’s anchor into the ocean. Depending on the size of your boat and the quantity and types of anchors you have, you may need one or more windlass.

Anchoring your boat is often one of the most dangerous parts of boating. If you ask any experienced sailor, almost all of them will have at least one story of the time they sliced their hand open tossing the anchor, or got off-balance and busted their behind on the deck.

A mechanical windlass allows the anchor to be instantly dropped or withdrawn from the boat just like a winch. No more sketchy balancing acts on the tip of your boat! In today’s article, we’re going to take a look at some of the top windlasses on the market. We’ll start with the best anchor windlass , the Lewmar V700.

Best Anchor Windlass

Our top pick: lewmar v700 g 12v 6/7 mm 1/4″ vertical windlass, key points at a glance.

• 100% heavy-duty stainless steel housing.
• Designed for boats up to 35-feet long.
• Motor Power: 320 Watts
• Come with an industry-leading 5-year limited warranty.
• Features a flush-mount design, hiding the motor below the deck for an attractive profile.

The Details

If you’re looking for the best anchor windlass on the market, then you can’t go wrong with the Lewmar V700 G. In terms of quality, price, and versatility, you’ll have a hard time beating it.

This powerful windlass features 700 pounds of pulling power packed into a 320-watt motor and is rated for use in boats up to 35-feet long. If you own a 35-footer, then you know just how heavy these anchors can be! With the Lewmar V700, you’ll be able to drop your anchor straight to the ocean floor with the touch of a button.

This heavy-duty windlass is built for thick half-inch thick ropes that come standard on larger boats and is designed to be as beautiful as it is functional. With a 316 stainless steel housing, you’ll never have to worry about rust, salt damage, or pain chipping- just give it a quick polish with some WD-40 once in a while to keep it shining.

• SIMPLIFY ANCHORING— Our windlass moves rode...
• EASY TO INSTALL — The Lewmar anchor windlass is...
• EVERYTHING YOU NEED — The Lewmar windlass has...
• COMPACT & DURABLE —The Lewmar V3 windlass...
• TRUSTED BRAND — Our windlass kit is from Lewmar,...

Our Runner Up: Lewmar ProSport 550

• Max pulling power: 550 pounds.
• Low power draw.
• Designed for boats up to 38-feet long.
• Composite polymer exterior and aluminum interior.
• Motor-above deck.

Also designed by Lewmar, the ProSport 550 is an excellent option if you’re looking for a similar quality and rating with a more affordable price tag! While this anchor windlass is designed to be installed on boats up to 38-feet long (3-feet longer than the V700), it doesn’t quite have the same pulling power.

With a 550-pound maximum pulling power, it’s able to handle most anchors, but it will take a little bit more time to drop and raise the anchor. However, it will use less power which makes it a good option for boats that can’t spare extra power (such as smaller sport fishing boats).

The other main difference is the material and housing design. Whereas the V700 features a fully stainless steel design, the ProSport 550 features a composite housing and an aluminum mechanical interior. This isn’t to say that composite and aluminum aren’t durable, but they aren’t able to stand up to the same everyday heavy-duty use. The motor on the 550 is also above-deck whereas the V700 motor is designed to be installed below-deck with the pulley above-deck.

• SIMPLIFY ANCHORING— Our windlass moves...
• COMPACT & DURABLE —The Lewmar horizontal...

Best Budget: MinnKota Deckhand 40 Electric Anchor Winch

• Can be used with anchors up to 40-pounds.
• Comes with a 2-year limited warranty.
• Includes 100-feet of pre-spooled nylon rope within the housing.
• Only needs a 12-volt battery to operate.
• Features an anti-drag system to prevent the anchor from dragging along the ground.

If you have a smaller boat such as a skiff, small sailboat, or lightweight sport fishing boat, then the MinnKota Deckhand 40 is probably the best choice you can make! This sturdy, compact anchor windlass can be powered with a standard 12-volt marine battery (the same one that powers your bilge pump) so you won’t have to worry about buying expensive new batteries.

Just because it’s small doesn’t mean that it doesn’t pack some power, though. It’s designed to be used with any anchor between 20 and 40-pounds and features a unique anti-drift designed that keeps the anchor from scraping along the river/seafloor and your boat from drifting around too much. This is great for fishing where your success often relies on maintaining that perfect spot your fishfinder identified.

If you want to add a bit of extra luxury, you can even purchase the additional MinnKota handheld remote switch that allows you to drop and lower the anchor from the other end of your boat so you won’t even have to leave your chaise lounge! Sweet!

• Electric anchor winch makes fishing boat...
• Davit can be mounted horizontally to stop anchor...
• Handles anchors up to 40 pounds; pre-spooled with...
• Comes with mounting hardware and installation...
• Two-year warranty included

Best for Large Boats: Lewmar Pro 700

• Made of 100% 316 stainless steel for durability.
• Designed for boats between 20 and 38-feet long.
• Features an above-deck motor design for easy installation.
• 700 pounds of pulling power.
• Can be converted to a free-fall anchor system.
• Comes with Lewmar’s excellent 5-year warranty.

At first glance, the Lewmar Pro 700 is very similar to the first Lewmar V700 that we reviewed as our top-pick. However, once you look a bit closer, you’ll be able to see the key differences between these two powerful machines.

They are both made of 100% 316 stainless steel for maximum durability and they both feature 700 pounds of pulling power. This means that the Pro 700 is designed for large boats that are being used on an everyday basis. Lewmar designed their pro series specifically for everyday commercial use, so if you make your living on the water- this is an excellent option.

One of the biggest differences between the Pro 700 and the V700 is the location of the motor. As we mentioned, the V700’s design features the motor housing under the deck which allows for a sleeker above-deck profile. However, this does make the windlass more difficult to install. The Pro 700, on the other hand, features an above-deck motor which makes it far easier to install, replace, or swap.

The Pro 700 can also be upgraded to work with a free-fall anchor system that allows your anchors to be dropped far quicker than the V700 would allow. This feature is especially useful if you frequently take your boat out into the deep sea and don’t want a long wait while your anchor drops 100-feet to the ocean floor.

• EFFICIENT ANCHORING— Our Pro-Series windlass...
• EASY TO INSTALL — Our anchor windlass is quick...
• EVERYTHING YOU NEED — The Lewmar horizontal...
• POWERFUL & DURABLE —The horizontal windlass has...

Best for Sport Fishers: Powerwinch Sport Fishing 450 Freefall Anchor Windlass

• Features a free-fall anchor system for maximum speed.
• Comes with a stainless steel rope for maximum efficiency and anchoring accuracy.
• Anchor windlass features watertight seals to prevent saltwater from corroding the interior.
• 450 pounds of pulling power.
• Can drop the anchor at 150-feet-per-minute and retrieve the anchor at 70-feet-per-minute.

If you’re a sport fisher, then the Powerwinch 450 is one of the best options on the market. One of the defining features of this anchor windlass is that it features a free-fall anchor system that allows the anchor to drop far quicker than most mechanical-drop windlasses (up to 150-feet-per-minute).

The Powerwinch 450 also comes with a pre-spooled stainless steel line which means that your anchor will drop almost straight down without drifting around with the current like your standard nylon ropes. It also means that your anchor line has a lower profile that’s harder for fish to see (very important when fishing for sport as the biggest fish often tend to be the smartest).

With one of the fastest anchor drop and retrieval times on the market, you’ll be able to make the most out of your time without wasting valuable time that could otherwise be spent searching for the perfect catch with your portable fishfinder !

• Free-fall anchor system designed for sport fishing...
• Stainless-steel rope and fasteners and watertight...
• Drops up to 4 times faster (150 fpm) than...
• Makes it easy to anchor boat in precise location...
• 70 fpm retrieval speed; weighs 21 pounds; 2-year...

Best Anchor Windlass Buyer’s Guide

Who should buy an anchor windlass.

Windlasses are an excellent choice for those who are looking for a quicker, safer, quieter, and more precise method of anchoring their boat. These devices are able to mechanically drop the best boat anchor for your boat straight down into the water with pinpoint accuracy.

Whether you’re a sport fisher who wants to maintain their quiet profile (nearly impossible if you have to rock the whole boat and make a giant splash in the water by throwing your anchor), or just a recreational boater who doesn’t want to slip and fall or strain their back tossing an anchor off the bow, an anchor windlass is a great investment!

Important Features to Consider

When purchasing an anchor windlass, it’s important to consider the following main features:

• Maximum Weight
• Chain/Rope Compatibility and Size

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do anchor windlasses last.

Depending on the quality of the design and how often you’re using your windlass, most of them are able to keep working for at least 3 to 5 years and sometimes even longer!

How Do I Know Which Ropes and Anchors To Use With My Windlass?

If you look at the manufacturer’s site or read the technical specs of the windlass, you’ll find a chart listing the minimum and maximum rope sizes and anchor weights.

Do I Need To Buy More Batteries To Power My Anchor Windlass?

This depends on the size of your anchor windlass. Smaller windlasses can usually operate off of the same 12-volt battery you use for your bilge pump and hydraulics. However, heavy-duty windlasses designed for commercial use may require you to buy an extra deep-cycle marine battery to power them.

Other Products We Looked At:

Five oceans atlantic 600 horizontal anchor windlass.

The Atlantic 600 features a 600-watt motor and 1,200 pounds of maximum pulling strength. It also features a drop speed of 115-feet-per-minute and a retrieval speed of 70-feet-per-minute which makes it a heavy-duty commercial windlass.

While the overall specs on this anchor windlass are excellent, it didn’t make our cut for the top-rated options due to some complaints that we’ve seen about poor customer service.

When it comes to an expensive investment like an anchor windlass, it’s essential that the manufacturer have flawless service. Unfortunately, 500 Oceans doesn’t have the best reputation in this regard.

• 600-watt motor.
• Features an above-deck motor position for ease of installation.

Maxwell RC612V 12V RC Series Windlass

The Maxwell RC612V Windlass is similar in design to the Lewmar V700. It features a polished stainless steel housing with a sleek, modern appearance. The motor is positioned below-deck which gives the anchor windlass a low-profile design. It runs off of a simple 12-volt battery which means you shouldn’t have to add extra batteries. It features maximum pulling power of 660 pounds and a manual free-fall lever for emergency use.

Price-wise, Maxwell’s windlasses are similar to Lewmar, as are the overall specifications. They have a beautiful design and there are some good reviews of the RC612V. However, the company doesn’t quite have the long-standing reputation that Lewmar has which is why it didn’t make it into our top cut.

• Features a low-profile below-deck motor.
• Has 660-pounds of maximum pulling power.
• Designed for quarter-inch chain or half-inch rope.

Powerwinch Freefall Anchor Windlass 41′ Class

Just like the company’s sport fishing anchor, this larger anchor windlass is designed to provide maximum speed and efficiency. It features a free-fall system that allows the anchor to be dropped at speeds up to 300-feet-per-second and a powerful motor which allows even heavy anchors to be retrieved at 75-feet-per-second.

It comes with a built-in stainless steel rope to allow for maximum anchor length and also to increase the accuracy of the anchor drop. The stainless steel cord also gives the anchor a lower-profile design that doesn’t create as much drag as it’s dropping.

The only reason that the Powerwinch 41’ Class windlass didn’t make our top cut is that not many boaters have 41-foot boats. These are usually heavy-duty commercial boats, naval boats, or coast guard boats. While this is a truly awesome product, it’s a little bit more than the average boater will usually need.

• Features a free-fall anchor system.
• Designed for 41-foot class boats (commercial/coast guard).
• Built-in stainless steel rope.

If you’ve been looking for the next investment into your boat, you can’t go wrong with an anchor windlass! This is especially true if you have a mid-sized or larger boat with a heavier anchor.

With the best anchor windlass for your needs, you’ll never have to worry about your ropes getting tangled up, throwing your back out, or struggling to pull a stuck anchor out of the mud.

Just press a button and let your new mechanical windlass do all of the work!

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Guides and tutorials for sea enthusiasts

GUIDE: What type of windlass should I choose for my boat?

• Deck equipment , Windlasses , Electric windlasses , Manual windlasses , Mooring

Which windlass for my boat? Beyond safety issues, raising an anchor by hand is a real physical exercise. Whether you own a sailboat, motor boat or fishing boat, a windlass is a real relief for your back. Yes, but which windlass to choose for your boat? The opinions of old sea dogs are sometimes contradictory and many parameters come into play, so much so that it is easy to get lost. Follow our little guide to answer the question: what type of windlass should I choose for my boat?

Contents of the page

The parameters to take into account when choosing which type of windlass is suitable for your boat

The windlass is positioned at the bow of the boat. It is part of your mooring equipment with your anchor, the davit, the mooring line (chain and / or cable) and deck equipment such as a cleat, a post or a stop system for the chain. The choice of the windlass must take these elements into account so that the assembly works in unison and ensures serene anchorages. Moreover, to have an overview on all these elements, we recommend that you read our article: how to make an appropriate mooring line for your boat?

In addition to the deck layout criteria or comfort, here are the parameters to consider when defining what type of windlass suits you:

• the space available and the configuration on and under the deck;
• the size and depth of your anchor locker;
• the composition of your mooring line: 6mm chain, 8mm chain or other, cable or mixed;
• the weight of your anchor (anchor + chain);
• the power of your boat's electrical system.

What type of windlass to choose: an electric or manual windlass?

Nowadays, beyond a certain size of boat, the electric windlass is part of the standard equipment. However, there are still configurations where a manual windlass is a wise choice and where the question of what type of windlass arises.

Electric windlass: ease and safety at anchor

Subject to having the necessary electric power, electric windlasses are easy to use and have few drawbacks. Robust in design, they allow you to haul up a mooring quickly, without fatigue and in safety whatever the conditions. They are equipped with a remote control for windlass, with or without wire, and are therefore a real asset for small crews.

The electric windlass contributes to the safety of the boat and the crew by facilitating anchorages. The decision to change fairground anchorage depending on the weather or sea conditions is then easier to make.

The prices vary with the power, and the difference will be more marked with the manual version as the power is high.

Manual windlass: ideal for small boats

For smaller units that do not have a large electric power (small sailboat, semi-rigid, etc.), the electric windlass is excluded.

The manual windlass may then be a good choice to facilitate raising the anchor in rough conditions. With zero power consumption, they make it possible to multiply the efforts without additional fatigue.

However, their usefulness remains limited due to their very low speed of raising the anchor, in particular compared to the speed of an electric windlass. Usually, they are only used to tear off the anchor for the first few meters. The raising of the mooring line is done by hand.

What type of windlass to choose between a vertical or horizontal windlass?

A vertical or horizontal windlass refers to the positioning of the motor. What type of windlass to choose depends on the installation configuration.

Vertical windlass: the most efficient and aesthetic

They are the most common nowadays and have a small footprint on the bridge, limited to the gypsy and possibly the tailstock. The electric motor is below deck and little exposed to the sea. In addition, the chain winds around half the circumference of the gypsy and is therefore better held in place when raising the anchor.

In return, the installation requires improvements and there must be space to house the windlass motor under the deck. If it is in the anchor locker, it must be ensured that the chain can pile up while maintaining a distance of 40 cm from the bridge.

Horizontal windlass: for boats with a small anchor locker

These one-piece models simply fit onto the deck. They do not require any adjustment of the anchor locker if the distance between the top of the chain bundle and the bridge is 30 cm. Everything being in the same place, the maintenance of the windlass is facilitated.

Generally totally visible, they are exposed to bad weather and to the sea. On the other hand, the chain only makes a quarter of a turn on the gypsy and can "jump" out of the notches (especially when the links are worn by rust. ) while raising the anchor.

Which windlass power to choose?

We offer you this little guide to calculate the power you need and know which windlass to choose .

A windlass is characterized by its power and its breakout force (or maximum force). To choose the power of your windlass, it is recommended that its maximum force be greater than 5 times the mass of your heaviest anchor (by adding the weight of the anchor, chain, cable possibly and any other accessory) .

First step: calculating the weight of your chain

Excluding accessories (nozzles, additional weights, tail assembly, etc.), the mass of your chain depends on the diameter of the links (the linear density in kg per meter) and on its length.

( You can find more details, if necessary, in our article on windlass power .)

Regarding the length of your chain, for recreational navigation and day trips, 5 times the length of your boat is generally sufficient. The mass of your chain is then:

Mass of your chain = 5 x (length of your boat in meters) x (linear density of your chain in kg / m).

Calculation of the breakout force to know which type of windlass to choose

To determine the minimum breakout force of your windlass, a good approximation is then given by the following formula:

Tearing force = 5 x (mass of your anchor + mass of your chain).

You then need a windlass with a breakout force or maximum force greater than this value.

For example, a 10 meter sailboat theoretically has a 50 meter long chain. This chain must be 8mm in diameter and its anchor weighing at least 14kg. (you will find a table explaining what the anchor weight and recommended chain, shackle and rope diameter is based on the length of your boat in our article on mooring lines ). For such a sailboat, the calculation of the minimum recommended windlass power is therefore:

Chain mass = 5 x (11m x 1,4) = 77kg

Minimum windlass power (Breakout force) = 5 x (14kg + 77kg) = 455W

(If you have a cable, this number will be higher.)

This sailboat will therefore have to buy a windlass with a power of at least 500W.

General rule of thumb to know the recommended windlass power

Theory is one thing, but what do windlass builders recommend in practice? In real life, boats are usually equipped with more powerful windlasses than necessary. This can be explained for three reasons. First, windlass brands prefer to recommend more powerful windlasses for safety reasons. Second, it is customary to have a relief anchor heavier than its main anchor in inclement weather. The windlass must therefore be able to operate with both anchors. Finally, third, many boaters prefer to oversize the power of their windlass in order to make the equipment faster and prevent it from overheating. Thus, the general rule applied is as follows:

-For a 6-meter boat that has an inboard motor, you can settle for a pulling power of 500 watts. 

- between 6 and 8 meters, a force of 700 watts is sufficient.

- from 8 to 10 meters, a luff of 1000 watts is required.

- from 10 to 15 meters, you will have to choose 1500 watts.

- Beyond 15 meters, the boats have windlasses of 1700W.

Which brand of windlasses to choose: Lewmar, Lofrans or other?

The main manufacturers of windlasses are Lewmar, Lofrans, Quick , Plastimo, Maxwell and Italwinch . All of them offer a wide range of electric windlasses of 500w, 700w, 1000w, 1200w or 1500w, manual, horizontal, vertical, stainless steel, aluminum, with or without wireless remote control, etc.

Equivalent in terms of quality, the choice is made by personal preferences, budget, availability of spare parts for the windlass or for specific needs. Do not hesitate to consult our comparison of the different brands of windlasses to know our opinion in more detail!

Depending on the configuration of your installation on your motor boat or sailboat, choose the windlass model that best suits you.

Choose the type of windlass best suited to your boat

Now that you've determined:

• if your boat can have an electric windlass or if it has to be satisfied with a manual,
• if your boat has enough room in the anchor locker for a vertical electric windlass or if you need a horizontal axis windlass,
• if your boat needs power of 500W, 700W, 1000W, 1500W or 1700W.

All you have to do is choose the brand and model of the windlass according to your budget.

• Always check that the windlass gypsy is the same diameter as the links of your anchor chain!
• Choose a voltage suitable for the electrical installation on your boat (12 or 24 volts).
• The doll is used to reassemble the cable. But be aware that the models without headstock are equipped with a mixed gypsy which accepts mooring lines composed of chain and cable.

The best manual windlasses

• See the ITALWINCH Giglio manual windlass with headstock and a ø6 mm gypsy
• See the ITALWINCH Giglio manual windlass with headstock and a ø8 mm gypsy
• See the LOFRANS Royal manual windlass with headstock and a ø8 mm gypsy  

The best horizontal axis electric windlasses

The best electric vertical axis windlasses, the best accessories for windlass.

You can purchase a foot switch and install it flat on the deck. It is the most efficient for maneuvers.

• See the Lofrans foot switch
• View Lewmar Foot Switch

If you want to control your windlass remotely, you have the choice between wired or wireless remote controls:

• See the Italwinch remote control
• See the Lofrans remote control
• See the Lofrans wireless remote control
• See the Quick wireless remote control

Also, to avoid damaging the windlass gears,  never leave the chain on the sprocket during the wetting operation.  We recommend the use of a hook connected to an anchor damper, itself connected to a mooring line with splice. The mooring is then stretched over one or more cleats until the chain tension on the gypsy is removed.

• See hooks for anchor chain ø 6 to 8 mm or ø 10 to 12mm
• See the best anchor shock absorber 
• See mooring lines with ø 10, 12, 14, 16, 20 or 24 mm splices

Then it's always good to have spare parts in case your windlass gets damaged. The sprocket wears out due to the passage of the chain. If it no longer catches the chain effectively, you need to change it. You can easily find a spare part online:

• Sprocket for LOFRANS X1 windlass
• Sprocket for LOFRANS X2 and PROJECT 1000 windlass
• Sprocket for LOFRANS X3 and PROJECT 1500 windlass
• Sprocket for LOFRANS KOBRA / CAYMAN / TIGRES / ROYAL windlass
• Sprocket for LEWMAR CPX2 / 3 windlass  
• Sprocket for LEWMAR V700 windlass
• Sprocket for LEWMAR Pro-Series Windlass 

To increase the life of your sprocket, you must change the chain links that are too worn or rusted. For this, there are chain links to rivet. It is advisable to always have a few on board (of the diameter corresponding to your chain) as well as a rivet pliers and rivets.

• See a good rivet pliers and these rivets
• See rivet links for ø 6 mm anchor chain 
• See rivet links for ø 8 mm anchor chain
• See rivet links for ø 10 mm anchor chain 
• See rivet links for ø 12 mm anchor chain 

We advise you to use the riveted links above because they have breaking loads equivalent to or even greater than that of the original links. In addition, their dimensions in mm correspond exactly to those of anchor chains. Thus, you are sure to have a quality link that will not get caught on your gypsy.

Finally, we recommend that you always have a maintenance kit for your windlass on board. You have to choose the kit corresponding to your model:

• See the Maintenance Kits for FALKON LOFRANS Windlasses
• See the Maintenance kits for TIGRES LOFRANS windlasses
• See the Maintenance Kits for ROYAL LOFRANS Windlasses

If you can't find the maintenance kit for your model online, you can always buy spare parts so you can repair your windlass on long trips:

• V See the spare parts for Lewmar V3 and V2 windlass (Manual lifting kit)
• See the spare parts for Lewmar V3 and V2 windlass (Control arm kit)
• See spare parts for Lofrans Tigres windlass
• See spare parts for Lofrans Tigres windlass (Spare gasket)
• See spare parts for Lofrans X2 windlass
• See spare parts for Lofrans X3 and PROJECT 1500 windlass

You will find many other parts on  Amazon ,  Ebay  et  Ticketmaster  in order to leave with peace of mind!

Finally, once you have purchased a suitable windlass for your boat, don't forget to maintain it properly! You must grease it with suitable marine grease every 2 months if you are sailing or at the end of each season before wintering. Must also check the oil level from time to time and change it every two years (use only  SAE 80W-90 oil  for your windlass). For more information on the maintenance cycles of a windlass, you can read our article: How to clean a windlass on a boat?

Learn more about boat windlasses:

TUTORIAL: How to dismantle a windlass on a boat?

How to install an electric boat windlass?

What are the best inexpensive boat windlasses?

You will also like :.

Which oil to use for an electric windlass?

5 Best Anchor Windlass – (Reviews & Buying Guide 2021)

Imagine that you’re in the sea for an entire day—fishing, diving, or just enjoying some quality time alone. You sail to get home after the long and tiring day. When you reach the port, you press a button to drop your anchor and go back home. No time or more energy wasted to pull down your anchor. It’s possible with the right anchor windlass.

Our team at The Marine Mag has done the research, collected useful facts, and has also prepared some  anchor windlass reviews . We want to help you, our readers, on your journey to finding the best products and devices to equip your boat. This post is meant to help you find the  best anchor windlass  for your vessel.

Best Anchor Windlass Comparison Chart

Best anchor windlass (top picks ).

The following reviews are not in a particular order. Check them out and see for yourself the pros and cons of these top-selling anchor windlasses.

1. Lewmar Vertical Windlasses

You can use this product with boats which are up to 35 feet long. The windlass is equipped with a breaker, a rocker switch, a control arm, a clutch wretch, a dual-direction solenoid, an under mounting plate, a mounting gasket, and a cutout template.

In addition to this, if you cannot afford to give the whole amount of money to pay for this product, leasing can be arranged. Doing so, you will provide smaller quantities of money every month for half a year, and this won’t increase the initial price. If you want to benefit from this opportunity, the only requirement is to be approved for an Amazon store card.

• Thanks to this windlass, anchoring is already an easy task.
• Everything necessary for its installation is included.
• Lewmar offers a 5-year warranty.
• The unit of this windlass is made of stainless steel, which is considered to be a durable material.
• This item doesn’t come with foot controls.

2. Lewmar Windlass – Anchr ProSport

Despite its price, this windlass is actually a budget-friendly option because it consumes a small amount of energy. Since the manufacturers are aware that you may not have all the money to pay the product upon purchase, they offer you the opportunity to make equal monthly payments for six months with 0% interest. The only condition to be able to do this is to get an Amazon store card.

Keep in mind that this windlass is suitable for boats that are up to 40 feet long, and its maximum pulling power is 550 lbs. Another advantage of this product is that it comes with everything necessary for its installation – a base gasket, fast mounting studs, an installation wretch, a toggle switch, and a circuit breaker.

• Since this windlass features low power consumption, it is a budget-friendly option.
• For your convenience, you can install this item above the deck.
• A dual-direction power operation characterizes this product.
• Everything needed for installing this windlass comes with it.
• This item doesn’t feature a free-fall, which you can remotely control. In other words, it can be manually operated to free fall.

3. Maxwell Windlass

Another benefit of this product is that its installation is very easy as the item consists only of two parts. Thanks to its special spacer tube, this windlass can be installed through any deck thickness. If you need to disassemble the unit, you can easily do this by using the handle, screwdriver and Allen key provided with the item. This windlass has proven long term durability because of the fact that it is made of stainless steel. You can operate this tool manually if you want it to free fall.

• Thanks to the clear instructions, the installation of this product are very easy.
• The maximum pulling power of this tool is twice one of the similar products.
• You can be sure that this item is going to last for a long time as it is made of durable stainless steel.
• Disassembling the unit is also not a challenge, as you have all the necessary tools for it provided.
• You have to purchase the rope and chain separately, which will add to the initial cost of the product.

4. Five Oceans Horizontal Anchor Windlass

Another advantage of this product is that it is very durable as it is made of stainless steel. This windlass is suitable for boats that are up to 35 feet long. Everything needed for the installation of this item comes with it – a circuit breaker, a solenoid, a rocker switch, and a deck footswitch. Receiving all these tools in the package of the windlass, you will save a lot of money.

Keep in mind that with the horizontal units, the whole windlass remains above the deck. If you follow the given instructions and template, the installation of this unit should take you about an hour.

• This item features a very powerful 600W motor.
• You can use this windlass with three-strands, eight-plate and double-braided ropes.
• The durability of the item is ensured by the fact that it is made of stainless steel.
• Everything needed for the installation of this windlass comes with it.
• This product doesn’t feature a free fall. However, it drops and retrieves very fast.

5. Five Oceans Vertical Anchor Windlass

Thanks to this motor, the Five Oceans product can provide a maximum pulling power of 1450 pounds, and a maximum line speed of 131feet per minute.  You can use this windlass with double-braided, eight-plate, and three-strands ropes. Keep in mind that this item is suitable for boats that are up to 35 feet long.

Like most of the other similar products, this one is also made of stainless steel, which ensures that it is sturdy and durable. Unlike other windlasses, this one has a free-fall feature, and it comes with a helm switch. For your convenience, this windlass comes with a ready mounting template.

• This windlass has a very powerful motor – a 900W one.
• Thanks to the stainless steel it is made of, this product is very durable.
• The Five Oceans windlass features a free-fall mechanism.
• All you need for the installation of this item comes with it.

Horizontal or Vertical Windlass

• Horizontal windlasses are the ones that stay above the deck only. These are suitable for smaller boats, even though they take up more space on deck. These windlasses provide a 90-degree wrap of the locker. Such devices require a minimum of 12 inches fall in order to stack the anchor rode adequately.
• Vertical devices are positioned both on top and below the deck. These provide a 180-degree wrap of the anchor rode and are more stable than horizontal ones. Such windlasses are suitable for larger boats that allow for a fall of a minimum of 18 inches.

To know which one is suitable for your boat, measure the distance from the top anchor locker to the top anchor rode. The result is the ‘fall’ which your boat allows. Based on the number, you can choose which the right type is for you.

Installation

If you go with a horizontal windlass, you shouldn’t have a problem with its installation. The only thing you need to do is drill holes onto your boat so that you can position and bolt it down. On the other hand, if you have to install a vertical one, you will need to make a large enough hole to insert the windlass below the deck.

Furthermore, it also matters whether your device is manual or electric. For the latter, you have to figure out and install the wiring. If you’re not sure of your capabilities, because  electrical windlass installation is complicated , you can always hire a professional to do the job.

Types of Anchor Windlasses

Based on your boat type and size and your budget, you can choose one of three anchor windlasses types:

• Manual devices are the simplest and most affordable ones. As the name suggests, these do not require any wiring or plumbing. These are the most useful for small boats that don’t have much battery power. Using such a device makes anchoring by hand easier than without a windlass. These devices are available with two types – one uses a back and forth motion, and the other a circular one.
• Hydraulic windlasses are the most complicated to install. However, they offer unlimited power, and you don’t have to worry about draining your batteries. They require a hydraulic system within the vessel to power them. These are incredibly efficient and are often used on large yachts and boats.
• Electric windlasses are relatively compact. They are powered by the vessel’s existing electrical system. These devices are probably the most powerful ones, a range of boat types and sizes. Electric windlasses have excellent lifting power, and using one makes anchoring effortless and straightforward. All you do is press a button. However, this type only works when there’s power on the boat. To avoid awkward and unpleasant situations, you may need to install a dedicated battery for the windlass.

How to Choose an Anchor Windlass

Pulling Power

This is the performance of the windlass and is the most crucial factor when choosing a device. To calculate the windlass’ pulling power that will be enough for your boat and anchor, you should:

• Combine the weight of the anchor and its chain or rope. The result is the ground tackle.
• Then, multiply that number three times, and you will receive the maximum strength your windlass must-have.

The calculations are measured in pounds. For example, if your anchor weighs 66 lbs, the chain and rope weigh 126 lbs, the ground tackle is 192 lbs. Multiplying this number by three, and you need a windlass with maximum pull power of 576 lbs.

The second thing to keep in mind is the gypsy. It may be small, but it’s an essential part of the windlass that does an important job. The gypsy is the rotating part of the device, usually designed for the exact size of the chain. So, take a look at each product’s gypsy specifications because your rod type may not be a match. Even though some models may have automatic handling of a rope-chain rode, not all do. However, most products are suitable for a variety of gypsies.

It is vital to match the windlass to the gypsy, and then to the anchor rode because otherwise, you’re risking one of the three to wear out fast.

Anchor Rod Type

This is the other important factor to consider before choosing a windlass. As you may or may not know, there are three types of anchor rods:

• A rope is the most affordable option and is commonly used on small boats only. It is only natural because the rope isn’t as sturdy as a chain, or a combination of both. This type may be more suitable for manual windlasses, which are also for smaller vessels.
• Chain only is perfect for large vessels. Naturally, it is more durable and more expensive. It also makes the anchor heavier, and you need a powerful and sturdy windlass to pull their combined weight.
• Chain and rope is probably the most popular type since it allows for more length. Plus, this type is very powerful at holding the anchor and pulling it. However, there are some ups and downs to this type of anchor rod. You should take a look at our  guide on getting the top anchor ropes and chains for more detailed information. Furthermore, you should maintain your chain and rope combo because it may chafe.

Safety Tips  

Using an anchor windlass isn’t a joke and should be handled with care and diligence. So, we have some safety tips for you.

• Use chain stoppers and chain snubbers. They prevent accidental self-launching of the anchor, which also keeps your windlass safe.
• If such isn’t available, you should make sure that when your anchor is up, and the windlass is not in use, the rope rode is attached to a load-bearing point. That is also a way to prevent the anchor from unexpectedly deploying.
• For electrical devices, always shut off the circuit breaker when you are working on your windlass and when you’re not using it.
• Make sure to tie the rode to a strong point when you’re at anchor.

Common Problems with Anchor Windlasses

These aren’t meant to be considered as disadvantages. We simply want to include all sides of these devices, and the common problems you may encounter using them shouldn’t be left out.

• Sometimes hydraulic windlasses may have a problem with cable wires, which cause a motor failure when you’re trying to weigh down the anchor.
• Bad weather and sea conditions may cause problems for the windlass. That is, flying debris can injure the device. Also, make sure the anchor is retracted or down completely when the sea conditions begin to worsen.
• Another common problem is that chrome windlasses flake off the upper friction of the gypsy. Then, the chain or rope start slipping and are hard to deploy or retract.
• After you replace the windlass, the chain or rope may begin jamming in the new gypsy.

Commonly Asked Questions

Is a Chain Stopper Necessary?

It is good to have one regardless of the type or model of your windlass. Some may not require a chain stopper, if they are powerful enough or if you’re using a strong point to tie your anchor.

Do I Need Any Other Accessories?

It depends on your situation, vessel, anchor rode. Aside from the device, you may also need to purchase: chain stopper, circuit breakers, toggle switch, wires, a news anchor rode, etc. However, if your boat has everything ready and you just need the windlass, you won’t have to invest in additional items. What is more, if you are looking for an anchor as well as a windlass, be sure to check our top boat anchor reviews and buying guide , so you can easily pick the right one for your vessel.

We must end our comprehensive guide here. Now that you’ve reached its end, you are more aware of what the  best anchor windlass  for your boat is. As you see, we at The Marine Mag strive to provide our readers with easy-to-digest information on various marine equipment. We also do our best to deliver up-to-date information, and we also regularly update our  anchor windlass reviews .

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Last updated on May 10, 2021

After a long day out at sea, hauling up a heavy anchor can be physically exhausting, especially if you’ve spent your time fighting stubborn fish trying to get your daily limit. When the sun has been beating down on your back for hours it’s an absolute chore. So, why not install an anchor windlass? With one of these clever anchor windlass devices, you can ease the burden of lifting your anchor by yourself. An anchor windlass will do most of the work for you so you only have to put in some minimal effort at the end of a day. If you’re not sure where to start looking for one, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about them. We’ve even selected some of the best ones on the market at the moment so you can decide which one is right for you.

What’s the Purpose of The Anchor Windlass?

An anchor windlass is a device that allows you to control the anchor chain or rope on your boat so that you don’t have to raise or lower it by hand. Its primary focus is to make maneuvering your anchor easier, faster & more efficient. This not only means that controlling your anchor requires less effort, but you can shift your anchor more quickly in dangerous situations such as storms. On top of this, it’s also healthier for you because it doesn’t require as much physical strain that could potentially strain your muscles.

Horizontal Vs. Vertical:

Anchor windlasses are primarily available in two types, horizontal and vertical. Selecting the ideal one depends on whether you’d prefer convenience or deck space. The difference between the two types of anchor windlasses are:

• Horizontal : This is situated above deck which makes it easier to install but it also takes up a lot of deck space. It’s more suitable for smaller boats or ones with oddly shaped chain lockers. They also only provide a 90° wrap of the anchor locker, which offers less security. Although it’s not stable enough for hefty outings, it will work nicely for casual ones.
• Vertical : This type of windlass is placed below deck, which frees up more space above board but makes it more difficult to use and install. It does have a 180° wrap around the gypsy which does offer more security making it more ideal for rough water.

Manual Vs. Electrical:

Another determining factor when it comes to selecting a windlass is whether it’s manual or electrical. This will influence the price of the device as well as the labor required to maneuver it. Here is what you need to know before you pick one:

• Manual : Although windlasses remove the need for lifting anchors by hand, manual ones still require labor. These devices use levers or winches to move the anchor which still requires a bit of muscle work. On the other hand, they’re cheaper than their electrical counterparts.
• Electrical : This windlass makes the entire process even easier because all you need to do is press a button for it to begin working. It’s ideal for convenience but is often more expensive than its manual counterparts and installation is a bit more complicated.

Anchor Rod Type:

The third factor you need to consider when selecting a windlass is the anchor rod type. There are three types available:

• All chain : This type is ideal for large cruiser boats. It’s expensive but more resistant to wear & tear and has a self stowing feature because of how heavy it is. By using its weight, it slips through the chain pipe into the rode locker.
• Rope chain : This is the most popular type because it allows for longer chain lengths and also gives more holding power to the anchor. It does need to be spliced to the last link on the chain which means that chafing is possible so it needs to be maintained regularly.
• Rope Only : This type isn’t as sturdy as the other two but its affordability does make it suitable for small boats. It does require a drum so you can wrap the rope around it when you’re done and a self tailing feature makes it easier to store as well.

Strength Capacity:

A decent anchor windlass is rated by how much it can haul. This is referred to as its maximum pull, which is also known as its strength capacity. In order to determine this, you need to combine the weight of the anchor, the chain & the rope to calculate the ground tackle. The maximum strength capacity is then three times the amount of the ground tackle.

By doing this calculation, you’ll be able to establish whether your windlass can handle the weight of your anchor, rope & chain which will impact its performance. 

Manufacturers:

Three of the best windlass manufacturers are Lewmar, Maxwell Marine & Five Oceans. Here is what each company has to offer:

• Lewmar : This company’s primary focus is convenience. It designs windlasses that simplify boater’s lives by making the anchoring process easier. This is done by using top quality materials to ensure that when you’re docking your boat is secure.
• Maxwell Marine : If you’re looking for reliability, Maxwell Marine is the brand to turn to. Its innovative designs ensure quality and durability so that your windlass looks stylish while still performing a sturdy job.
• Five Oceans : Out on the open sea, your windlass needs to be able to handle extreme weather conditions. With Five Oceans, you’ll be guaranteed that it will get the job done quickly in tricky situations because of its high stability and speed.

Installation:

Installing horizontal windlasses is really easy because all you need to do is drill holes onto the surface of the boat in order to bolt it down. Vertical ones are more difficult. You’ll need to create a hole in your boat to insert the device below deck and placing it according to the manufacturer's guide is crucial.  

If your windlass is electric it will require additional wiring as well. For this reason, it’s recommended to get professional help to ensure that you don’t do any structural damage to your boat during installation.

Now let’s discuss a few winning models.

5 Best Anchor Windlasses

1. five oceans pacific vertical anchor windlass.

Five Oceans is known for its elegant designs and its Pacific 600 Vertical Windlass is no different. This device makes a stylish addition to any boat while still maintaining reliable stability. With its fail safe gypsy lock, it ensures that your chain won’t slip out of place. Because of its 316 stainless steel housing, it’s highly durable so it can withstand any weather conditions. The 600W motor gives you decent power so you can lift your anchor with ease without putting in too much effort. It’s decently priced for its power rating and strength capacity, making it ideal for casual boaters. Here are a few of its notable features:

• Motor Power: 600W
• Maximum pull: 1000lb
• Retrieval speed: 60’ per minute
• Required rope size: 1/2” rope & 1/4” HT G4 chain
• Suitable boat sizes: 16’ to 32’ in length
• Failsafe gypsy lock increases security
• Includes impact resistant motor cover to protect device
• Stylish design
• Mounting pad required to install it on decks that aren’t flat
• Vertical installation may require professional help

2. Lewmar V700 G 12V Vertical Windlass

If affordability is your primary concern, but you’d still like a reliable windlass, then the Lewmar V700 is for you. This device is cost effective but it’s built with a durable design and a lock to ensure that your anchor stays in place. Its stainless steel housing also guarantees that it will withstand various weather conditions so you can hoist your anchor up with the push of a button in any environment. Who said boating was only for the rich? With the Lewmar V700, anyone can have the benefits of a hardworking, electrical windlass for an affordable price. If you want to know more about this device, here are a few of its features:

• Motor Power: 320W
• Maximum pull: 700lb
• Required rope size: 1/2” rope & 1/4” G4 chain
• Suitable boat sizes: Up to 35’ in length
• Highly affordable
• Easy to use
• Anchor lock keeps the chain in place
• Low motor power slows down the process
• Occasionally jams when lifting rope

3. Five Oceans Atlantic Horizontal Anchor Windlass

The Five Oceans Atlantic 600 Horizontal Windlass has all the advantages of the vertical unit, but you get more maximum pull for your power. It might take up more deck space, but with this device, you’re guaranteed a sturdy strength capacity of 1200lb. On top of this, its retrieval speed is also fast, so you can haul your anchor up in seconds. The heavy duty lever makes it easy to install, while the fail safe gypsy lock and durable design mean it can withstand rough seas. If there are any issues with this device, it’s that it’s a bit pricey, meaning it’s not ideal for every budget. This cost is worthwhile when you consider that this device is stable enough for larger boats. Here are some features you may want to know about this product:

• Maximum pull: 1200lb
• Retrieval speed: 70’ per minute
• High retrieval speed
• Large maximum pull
• Easy to install due to heavy duty lever
• A bit pricey
• Requires reinforcement when it's installed

4. Lewmar PRO-Fish 1000G 12V G4-102 Windlass

The Lewmar Pro Fish 1000G was built with fishermen in mind. Its automatic freefall allows you to pull up to any ledge without concern for wrecking your boat. Your anchor drop will always be precise and quick which means that you don’t have to run your motor while waiting for fish. Its stainless steel design means that it’s able to resist corrosion so you can spend hours on salty water with your rod in your hand. When you’re done, simply press a button to retrieve your anchor. This device is convenient and easy to install, making it worthwhile equipment for any fisherman’s boat. Some interesting features of this product are:

• Required rope size: 9/16” rope & 5/16” G4 chain
• Suitable boat sizes: 38’ in length
• Powerful motor: Ensures fast line speed
• Suitable for larger boat models
• Automatic freefall makes anchor drop easier & faster
• Resists corrosion
• Lacks durability so it tends to break after extended use
• A bit costly

5. Maxwell RC8 12V Windlass

With the RC8, Maxwell Marine offers one of the most powerful windlasses on the market. This device has a power rating of 1000W and a strength capacity of 1320lb, so it can lift the heaviest loads in the fastest amount of time. Despite being a vertical windlass, the two piece installation is easy and time saving, making it even more convenient. Because of the heavy duty pressure arm & preloaded spring, you always have maximum control so you can ensure your boat’s safety. It might be expensive, but it’s worth every dollar. There’s even a manual override for emergencies. Few windlasses are as trustworthy. Here are a few worthwhile features of this device:

• Motor Power: 1000W
• Maximum pull: 1320lb
• Retrieval speed: 92’ per minute
• Required rope size: 5/8” rope & 5/16” chain
• Suitable boat sizes: 27’ to 45’ in length
• High motor power
• Fast retrieval speed
• Durable & long lasting
• Heavy duty pressure arm gives you more control
• Manual override installed for emergencies
• Very expensive

Final Thoughts:

With any of these five windlasses, you’ll never have to strain to haul up your anchor again. These devices ensure reliability and stability. With their high power ratings and automatic control, you can hoist your anchor up in no time.

Your boating experience should be a joyful endeavor. You shouldn’t be concerned that it’s too much work. With the right windlass, this will never be an issue. So, which one will you pick?

About the author   Robert Finn

Robert has over 20 years of experience boating and selling boat equipment. His passion for the latest and greatest gear helps our clients find what they need. His favorite boating place is the Florida Keys.

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Refit a Classic Yacht with an Electric Windlass

• By David Schmidt
• March 16, 2022

I still remember (­robustly) arguing with my dad when he announced his plans to add a windlass to the J/44 he owned. He was thinking of easy anchoring. I was thinking of weight and the boat’s ability to hit its polars. I lost that fight, and I’ll admit to having some smoldering feelings—until we went cruising and I was charged with anchor retrieval. I reached down to start sweating in the ­7-to-1 scope and the big Danforth anchor, until I saw the windlass foot switch. I ­remember pulling in the rode until it came vertical, waiting for my dad to break the anchor’s grip by nudging the boat forward with the engine, and then nonchalantly employing the switch, hoping he wouldn’t ­notice. No dice. 

Bottom line: As a racing sailor, I wasn’t going to admit that the windlass was an ­upgrade, but there’s no question that it allowed my parents to ­enjoy years of additional cruising, while also saving me from back pain more than once. 

The premise behind a ­windlass is simple: It ­employs power and mechanical ­advantage to make it easier to ­retrieve a vessel’s ground tackle and feed its rode into the anchor well. To do so, over time, windlass design evolved into two camps: horizontal and vertical, allowing boat owners or, more likely with new boats, the builders, to ­select equipment that best fits their particular yacht. 

While high-quality ­windlasses are effective and dependable, a cost-cutting trend emerged in the 1970s and 1990s whereby boatbuilders offered windlasses as optional—not standard—equipment. As a result, many cruising boats were delivered sans windlasses. Flash-­forward to the 2020s, and many of these boats are now ­changing hands. Their new owners, however, are less interested in footing chiropractic bills. Here’s a look at how a windlass works, the design and installation considerations involved, and the benefits it provides.

The Big Picture

A windlass functions as part of a larger system that includes the anchor, sometimes a swivel and chain, sometimes rope, some sort of a snubber or chain stopper, the anchor roller, the windlass itself, the anchor well, the windlass controls, and the windlass’s power supply. All of these ­individual pieces of equipment need to be correctly spec’d for the ­system to work properly. 

“Start with what size anchor you’re going to use,” Harcourt Schutz advises. He is Lewmar’s senior director of aftermarket sales. He explains that the total weight of the boat’s ground tackle (not just the ­tackle that you expect to deploy) should represent one-quarter of the windlass’s working load. “It’s based on the anchor and rode, not the boat’s displacement. The anchor and rode are what you’re picking up. If you ­already have the rope and chain, match what’s there.” 

If you’re starting from scratch, Fred Cook, ­president of Schaefer Marine, ­advises that not all chain is ­created equal. “I wish everybody would use high-test chain,” he says, adding that while this is more expensive than a ­standard galvanized marine alloy, it delivers considerably greater strength. 

Cook says that the windlass’s chain wildcat, or gypsy (the coglike mechanism that controls the chain), must be spec’d to match the ­specific chain with which it will be paired. (Wildcat is the term typically used in the States; gypsy is preferred by Brits. To further confuse matters, in the US, an additional drum around which an anchor rope is wound is called the gypsy; the Brits call it a warping head.) 

Wildcats typically ­are ­modular, and Cook suggests that cruisers mail a small section of chain to the windlass’s manufacturer (or distributor) to ensure that the chain wildcat’s web (that is, the teeth that engage the chain links) is properly matched.  

While chain-and-rope rodes are common in North America, this isn’t the ­international norm. “No one uses rope ­except the US. Everyone else ­uses all-chain rodes,” says Jim Thomas, Imtra’s product ­manager for Lofrans and Muir ­anchoring products. He says rope-to-chain rodes evolved in the 1990s as a cost-cutting measure. These setups are rigged with the chain attached directly to the anchor on one end and spliced to rope (typically three-strand) on the other. While this setup reduces bow weight (“aah,” the racing sailor says), anyone who might eventually want an all-chain rode should consider this when spec’ing their windlass. 

Swivels are sometimes ­situated between the chain’s last link and the anchor. ­Thomas notes that swivels are helpful in removing twists from the anchor rode during recovery. Meanwhile, if the anchor-roller wheel has a notch or a groove, this helps in aligning the links for entry into the gypsy, he adds. And the swivel’s articulation helps align the chain as the anchor is pulled onto the roller. Additionally, swivels can help a set anchor negotiate windshifts and rising and falling tides, but Thomas and Schutz are both quick to point out that each additional proverbial link in the chain could be a point of failure. ­Because of this, both experts encouraged customers to use only high-quality swivels.

Any boat that’s equipped for anchoring with a windlass should have a bow-­mounted anchor roller, which ­safely contains the anchor on deck and helps keep the rode in line with the windlass. As ­mentioned, it’s important to ensure that the roller’s shape matches the profile of your ­anchor chain.

There’s still more to note when it comes to assessing a vessel’s anchoring system. “­Anchor lockers are ­unfriendly environments,” Schutz says of the belowdecks space where the rode is stowed. “They’re oversaturated with salt air.” This is a result of the ­inevitable water and harbor mud that windlasses raise along with the hook. The rub is that anchor wells usually contain the windlass’s power cables and, depending on the design of the windlass, its gear box. As a result, experts suggest that cruisers employ a bow hose or shower to rinse the rode as it’s ­hoisted, and to give the windlass, the ­anchor, and its rode freshwater rinses when possible.

Up and Down or Sideways

As mentioned, there are two common windlass designs: horizontal and vertical. While both retrieve anchor gear, the drive shaft on horizontal ­windlasses is horizontal, while vertical windlasses employ vertical drive shafts. This means that the chain wildcat on a horizontal windlass spins like a Ferris wheel, while the chain gypsy on a vertical windlass turns like a merry-go-round. 

“Horizontal ­windlasses don’t have as much ­contact with the chain,” Thomas says, adding that the wildcat on a horizontal windlass ­typically has 110 degrees of chain ­contact. Conversely, “a vertical windlass has 270 ­degrees of surface contact. Vertical windlasses are better with rope-and-chain rodes, while horizontal windlasses are better-suited for all-chain rodes.”

Because of their fixed-­volume nature, anchor wells often dictate how much rode one can carry, and they can ­influence one’s purchase decisions. “The distance between the windlass to the top of the line stack in the locker matters,” Schutz advises, adding that horizontal windlasses work best if this distance is at least a foot, while vertical designs work best when there’s 12 to 18 inches separating the windlass from the top of the line stack.

The other major design ­difference involves how much of the windlass is situated ­abovedecks. Horizontal windlasses are typically entirely deck-mounted. This frees up bow-locker space, but they occupy more deck real estate than vertical windlasses, which typically employ a belowdecks gear box. While Thomas advises that deck thickness can sometimes steer purchase decisions, given that most vertical windlasses use drive shafts that top out at 5 inches, Cook points out that custom shaft lengths can usually be accommodated. That said, unless you sail a wooden classic, odds are good that your fiberglass deck is only an inch or two thick. 

Besides their design ­orientation, there are a variety of ways to control their ­operation. One common way is to employ deck-mounted foot switches, with one pedal lowering the rode and the other reversing the ­direction of the wildcat to retrieve it. Manufacturers also offer ­handheld controllers, wireless ­key-fob-like controls and even helm-mounted controls. 

Lowering an anchor and its rode is fairly straightforward. Some cruisers install chain or rope counters in the system to help quantify the amount of deployed scope. Others paint the chain and rode at ­regular intervals or use a variety of plastic or cloth markers. It’s worth noting that at present, windlasses still employ solenoids to control the direction in which the wildcat turns. This means that windlasses have yet to become NMEA 2000 compatible, and therefore they currently ­cannot be controlled via the vessel’s chart plotter, a networked smartphone, or a digital-­switching system. However, the experts interviewed for this story suggest that NMEA compatibility is coming in the next year or two.

Put It to Use

Once the anchor is set and the scope properly ­adjusted, ­experts suggest transferring the load off the windlass’s gear box and onto independent hardware. If you’re ­running a chain-to-rope rode, the easy solution if all of the chain is out is to tie the rope to a bow cleat. If you’re using an all-chain rode, manufacturers offer various hooks and/or snubbers that attach to a cleat and to a link in the chain, thus transferring the load off the windlass. As an aside, most modern catamarans come with a bridle arrangement that’s been pre-installed and which keeps the rode centered ­between the two hulls.

One of the smartest things anyone told me about sailhandling involves ­constantly looking at the sail or ­running rigging that’s affected when jumping a halyard or ­spinning a winch to ensure that ­something isn’t ­accidentally overloaded. Windlasses are no different. All experts agree that it’s wise to station one crewmember at the bow and another at the helm for ­anchor-retrieval work. They all also strongly recommend keeping the engine in gear (low RPM) and using it to drive the boat toward the anchor, with the forward crew either manually sweating in the rode or using the windlass. Once the rode is taut and near-vertical, it’s best to use the engine—not the windlass—to break the anchor’s grip on the seafloor. Once the hook is free, the crew can reengage the windlass, keeping a constant eye on things to ensure that the anchor roller or bow section isn’t damaged by overstraining the system once the anchor is on board.

If used properly, ­windlasses can greatly simplify anchor retrieval, but it goes without saying, just as with any high-torque system, it’s ­critical to pay attention and keep one’s hands clear of lines and ­moving parts.

As with all electrical ­systems, windlasses require DC juice. In a retrofit, this means an owner will ­typically have to run two, or ­possibly three, heavy-gauge cables forward to the bow from the house batteries. If you have a bow thruster installed that’s serviced by a local battery, this well of DC ­power can ­service the windlass too. The experts stressed the ­importance of situating a suitably sized windlass ­breaker as close to the battery as ­possible. “The circuit ­breaker ­protects the wires and the windlass ­motor,” Thomas says, advising that it’s wise to use thermal breakers.

Given that boatyards typically require two days of labor to install a windlass aboard a 40-footer, it’s tempting for do-it-yourselfers to tackle a windlass refit on their own. “It’s pretty straightforward, but you need to be comfortable cutting holes in fiberglass,” Schutz says, ­adding that vertical windlasses ­usually necessitate ­larger apertures. “It’s not super easy, but if you’re comfortable with power tools, it’s not a deal-breaker. Running the wires is the hardest part.”

Maintenance is the last ­major consideration. Aside from keeping the rode clean and occasionally rinsing it with fresh water, it’s important to use your windlass several times per season (more is better) to ensure that the lubricating oil inside the windlass’s case is evenly distributed along its internal worm drive. “The worm gear is set in oil halfway,” Cook says. “The worm gear can rust out above the oil” if it’s not regularly used. Cook also suggested periodically checking your windlass’s seals to ensure that water isn’t entering the casing and affecting internal oil levels. Schutz recommends that owners with vertical windlasses keep the belowdecks componentry properly painted to avoid rust or ­corrosion—in other words, touch up nicks and dings. Thomas also recommends keeping the system’s clutch cones clean and greased. 

Provided that users apply proper care and maintenance, a modern windlass should ­provide years of great service. And while there’s no ­escaping the added bow weight, this matters only if you’re more ­interested in winning pickle dishes than enjoying peaceful nights in beautiful locales with your friends and family. 

David Schmidt is CW ’s ­electronics editor and occasionally writes on other gear topics.

Vendor List

Bainbridge distributes Italwinch: bainbridgeintusa.com/italwinch from $1,060.

Imtra offers windlasses from Muir and Lofrans: imtra.com ; from $1,200.

Lewmar: lewmar.com from $1,000.

Vetus distributes Maxwell windlasses: vetus-maxwell.com from $2,210.

Quick Spa: quickitaly.com from $1,500.

Schaefer Marine carries the Ideal windlass brand: schaefermarine.com from $4,000.

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Discover the Best Horizontal Windlass for Smooth and Easy Anchoring

September 24, 2020 by Charles Burke Leave a Comment

Last updated on March 11th, 2023 at 02:30 am

Are you looking for the best horizontal windlass ? Then read on as we look at some of the best windlass on the market and what to look for in terms of features.

A windlass is a piece of essential equipment on your boat that makes sailing much more enjoyable. The big winch, with a vertical or horizontal axis, has a primary purpose to raise or drop the anchor quicker, easier, and more reliably. It is located on your boat’s foredeck, where it’s driven by a small motor known as the electric windlass or a manual windlass known as a crank.

Table of Contents

Top 5 Best Horizontal Windlass For Sale

Here are our top 5 picks for the best horizontal windlass for sale on the market right now.

• Maxwell HRC10
• Lewmar PRO-Series 700
• Five Oceans Atlantic 900
• Lewmar PRO-Series 1000H
• Powerwinch Freefall Anchor Windlass 41' Class

Best Horizontal Windlass Reviews

There are essential factors to consider before you purchase a horizontal windlass. First, you need to know your boat’s overall length and displacement to determine the correct size windlass to buy. Other factors to consider include motor strength, your budget, and pulling power.

The other paramount part of choosing the right horizontal windlass is to ensure its compatibility with your anchor rode. The gypsy is the rotating part of the windlass and should be designed for an exact chain size. Ensure the chain is well matched to avoid wearing out of the gypsy’s shoulder or damaging the motor shaft.

As a boat owner, you know that dealing with your anchor and rode could cause a lot of pain and pressure on your back, arms, or shoulder. To avoid such aches and pains, you should invest in the best horizontal windlass in the market that fits your boat. Below are our favorites.

*Our Top Choice*

1. Maxwell HRC10

The Maxwell HRC10 is a breakthrough in performance and anchor handling. This is the Hercules of windlasses. The fully automated windlass is designed for bigger vessels that are above 52 feet. Its unique design smoothly retrieves and deploys a 10mm short link chain and 16mm three strand or eight braid rope. In addition, the HRC10 simple, bold down installation guarantees smooth and rapid on-deck installation and setup.

If you are looking for an all-chain rode windlass, the Maxwell HRC10 is your best choice thanks to its added security and holding power of an all-chain anchor system. The windlass fundamental chain pipe and enormous deck hawse pipe throat guarantees easy entry of the chain rode in and out of the anchor locker.

In our opinion, this is definitely the best anchor windlass for the money.

2. Lewmar PRO-Series 700

The Lewmar PRO-Series 700 is an excellent quality windlass that should provide you with longevity and dependability. With 100% stainless steel housing, the Lewmar Pro-Series 700 is durable, well-protected, and easy to install. This unit is also controlled with a push-button using an in-built manual emergency recovery system.

This horizontal windlass comes with a maximum pulling power of 320 kgs (700 pounds) for the 700 and 454 kg (1000) for the 1000, giving you two very good options based upon your needs. With this windlass, you only need a ½ socket standard wrench that works well in maintaining the anchor from binding and gliding on a chain rope. Also, this compact size windlass works well in conserving precious bow space.

The shining horizontal windlass is a high-quality Lewmar product for a boat measuring between 20-38 feet. Its powerful motor offers fast line speed. In addition, the DIY ready kit contains a fast mounting stud, circuit breaker, base gasket seal, rocker switch, installation wrench, and a dual-direction solenoid.

3. Five Oceans Atlantic 900

The Five Oceans Atlantic 900 comes as a full package consisting of a windlass, circuit breaker, deck footswitch, rocker switch, and solenoid for a comprehensive installation. Assembled with strong stainless material, the unit is a superb choice if you own a vessel that is above 35 feet in length. The device’s rode works well with double-braided, three strands, and 8-plait rope.

Likewise, this windlass comes with a maximum line speed totaling to 115 feet per minute. The Five Oceans Atlantic 900 is well equipped with a 600W motor for robust operation. Meanwhile, this unit has an impressive maximum pull capacity that amounts to 1200 pounds.

This horizontal windlass safety design comprises a heavy-duty control arm and stripper fittings that can’t be found in any other windlass. In addition, the windlass failsafe gypsy lock features also inhibit accidental deployment while underway.

If safety and power are important to you, this is a great windlass to buy.

4. Lewmar PRO-Series 1000H

The Lewmar PRO-Series 1000H is applauded by many professionals globally. It is DIY ready and very easy to install. The main unit is housed in a 316 stainless steel for guaranteed stability and protection. Also, this windlass comes with a powerful motor providing a fast line speed. It’s push-button control, and an in-built manual emergency recovery system makes anchoring easy since all you need is just a standard ½ inch socket wrench.

Inside the Lewmar PRO 1000H kit, you will find different items that will make your installation easier. They include the fast-mounting studs, rocker switch, circuit breaker, base gasket seal, installation wrench, windlass, and a dual-direction solenoid.

5. Powerwinch Freefall Anchor Windlass 41' Class

The Powerwinch Freefall Anchor Windlass 41' Class is a suitable option if you are looking for a freefall anchor system. This windlass freefall system permits the anchor to fall at a rate of up to 300 feet per minute. Furthermore, the faster drop time permits for superior precision on your anchors drop location. The windlass motor is engaged only in retrievals, making it use fewer amps.

The Powerwinch 41′ windlass gear systems are oil infused with heat-treated oil. It also comes with a motor plate made of one piece that improves gear life and smooth power transmission. In addition, the device’s tapered splice is ideal for a smooth rope-to-chain transition. The windlass has watertight sealed stainless sealed fasteners that are stress-free to take out and have exceptional corrosion resistance.

If you are looking for a reliable, yet cheap horizontal windlass, then the Powerwinch Freefall Anchor Windlass may be the perfect choice for you and your boat.

Best Horizontal Windlass Buyer’s Guide

There are critical factors you must consider before choosing the correct windlass for your anchor and boat. Though they are many, the most two essential things to check include the maximum pulling capacity and the rode.

Maximum Pulling Capacity

The most valuable way of rating windlass performance is by observing what it will lift and at what speed. Therefore, the two things to consider are the working load and the windlass’s maximum pulling capacity. The working load is usually rated at about one-third of the maximum pull and is commonly well thought-out to be the load that the winch is pulling once the anchor is off the bottom.

Choosing the ideal rope, especially the chain, is exceptionally vital. Windlasses are designed to take the chain, rope only, or sometimes both. Chain only rode is common on more massive displacement sail and motor yachts. There are two significant types of anchor chains. They include the short link chain that is mostly used on small and medium-sized boats, and the stud link chain is mostly used on much bigger vessels.

Rope chains are the most common type since they allow for longer chain lengths and gives more holding power to the anchor. It mostly needs to be spliced to the chain’s last link making chaffing possible, thus it needs regular maintenance.

While you’re here, make sure that you secure your engine from theft with a boat outboard motor lock .

Choosing the best horizontal windlass for your boat can be a bit tricky. However, all windlass products are designed to guarantee reliability and stability. Though various good horizontal windlasses are expensive to buy, they add significant value to your boat’s resale value.

There are essential factors to think through before selecting which option to invest in, and your boat’s configuration will likely end up being the most critical factor to consider when deciding what to buy.

It is essential to understand the points we highlighted above and other practical features that a top-quality anchor windlass must possess. This will help you safeguard your investment and be contented despite the amount of money you spend.

Be sure to read our other boat accessories reviews .

Last update on 2024-03-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

About Charles Burke

Lifelong watersports enthusiast and author. I have owned and worked on boats for over 25 years. My love for everything marine related led me to create this site and share my knowledge with like-minded boat and watersports lovers.

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The Best Anchor Windlasses

Written by Anthony Roberts / Fact checked by Jonathan Larson

In a mariner’s world, anchors are trusty sidekicks that tend to attract all the attention. They keep boats safe and steady, and that’s all good but what about the one that does all the muscle work at the bow?

The best anchor windlass, to me, deserves the entire stage. After all, it’s the kind that spares you from the back-straining task of heaving up hefty anchors and brings other goodies to the captain’s table as well.

Do you want to know what these other perks are and which types of windlass have them? Then, take the time to be acquainted with the spotlight-worthy selections I have reviewed here. They are complemented by a comprehensive guide that should give you a well-rounded overview of this nifty tool.

Lewmar 6670011108-312

Jump to Review

Lewmar 6656811967-303

Maxwell RC8812V

Table of Contents

1. Lewmar 6670011108-312 Vertical Windlass

2. lewmar 6656811967-303 prosport 550, 3. maxwell rc8812v windlass, 4. lewmar 66910441 captive reel windlass, 5. five oceans pacific 1000 vertical anchor windlass, 6. lewmar 6656411108-102 pro-fish windlass, 7. pactrade marine pdsa0317 anchor windlass, 8. lewmar 6656011967-310 pro-series 700, 9. maxwell amrm-hrc101012v horizontal windlass, 10. maxwell amrm-hrcff812v horizontal windlass, 11. five oceans atlantic 600 horizontal anchor windlass, 12. powerwinch p77741 freefall anchor windlass, what is an anchor windlass, how does it work then, types of anchor windlass, benefits and drawbacks of using an anchor windlass, buyer’s guide, care and maintenance, frequently asked questions, top 12 anchor windlass reviews.

Considering Lewmar as a household brand in windlass anchor systems is an understatement. It’s one of the most innovative companies at present, and this windlass will introduce you to what sets the brand apart.

When buying windlasses, I always prioritize those that are easy to use. Of course, that’s already taking into account the pulling power and rode that I’m using. Easy to install is another aspect that I welcome, especially in a vertical windlass. This one fits perfectly in my 29′ scarab, with the said factors in mind.

The ease-of-use mostly stems from the remote push-button control. That, plus the fact that it jived well with my free-fall anchoring habits. I’ve used 5/16’ rope, chain, and a combination of the two with this windlass anchor system, and I can’t recall any hitches whatsoever.

Once I installed it, I also immediately noticed how much precious bow real estate it helped me save. It provides a cleaner look in the bow, with the gears and motor protected from salt and moisture, which only the most well-designed vertical windlasses can achieve.

With that said, I’d be lying if I said the stainless steel finish didn’t catch my eye as well. It won’t look out of place in any luxury boat. But, ultimately, it’s the durability that wins my heart. It’s still going strong for me after 3 years of sailing with just a few signs of corrosion.

• Easy to use
• Stylish stainless steel design
• Handles rope and chain rodes extremely well
• Space-saving setup
• Built to last
• Tends to jam on free fall

The Lewmar ProSport 550 saves you electricity, money, and plenty of energy.

I was introduced to this Lewmar product when my wife and I rented a yacht on a sailing trip to the French Riviera. The three-week affair was one of the most memorable moments of my life for a variety of reasons. My interest was piqued by the components of our magnificent vessel, with this windlass being among the few facets that caught my attention.

I have since purchased one for my center console, and imagine my surprise when I found out how cheap it is. Recalling the yacht trip, what really attracted me to it was its smooth operation. It didn’t take long for both of us to warm up to the uncomplicated controls, and I definitely like that I get to enjoy this perk with my vessel.

Installation was a piece of cake, taking less than 30 minutes with its horizontal setup. Still, that’s noteworthy, considering the average time it usually takes me to install most horizontal windlasses.

Another aspect I like is the amount of power that this workhorse saves. I’ve been fishing and boating and have tried anchor windlasses long enough to attest to this contraption’s power-saving capabilities. That’s one more thing that adds to its general construction’s appeal.

• Easy to install and control
• Actively saves electricity
• Decent pulling power
• Works best with rope
• Great value for money
• Doesn’t support free fall

A Maxwell windlass that seamlessly demonstrates what a responsive version of this sailing implement would be like. Its features anticipate most sailors’ needs.

I often use a ½-inch three-strand rope plus chain combination for the rode in my old 30’ center console. I mainly take it out for fishing, and had the thought one day of fitting it with a windlass. This is the first one that met my rode requirement straight up.

This windlass anchor winch instantly became a favorite of mine because it proved its strength when I got caught in a gale at one of my favorite fishing spots in the first few weeks after my purchase. Although I have to admit that this was back when I was still a novice. Roughly, the gusts blew up to around 30 knots, and I felt I had to weigh the anchor quickly.

However, my delta anchor got stuck quite firmly in 2’ of hard sand , which along with rode weight, ground tackle weight totaled to 210 pounds. I wouldn’t have made it out without this beast of a windlass.

Admittedly, I only used a bit of engine power, while I kept a close eye on the circuit breaker and an ear on the windlass’s motor. Rookie mistake, I know. Nonetheless, I believe the arguably exceptional situation called for it. It was either I got lucky it worked or this is just that tough.

Other aspects I like are the no-hassle installation, smooth and quick operation, as well as overall durability. I’d go so far as to say that it’s extra durable, considering the amount of abuse it has undergone. As proof of how fast it is, I once set down 500 feet of rope with it, and it retrieved my anchor in less than 5 minutes. Did I mention it supports free fall, too?

• Awesome pulling power
• No-hassle installation
• Smooth and quick operation
• Extra durable
• Supports free fall anchoring
• Faulty up/down switch

This Lewmar windlass proves that a cheap price tag can still go with excellent performance.

I hooked this up to my 23′ power cat. Installation wasn’t at all complicated. It didn’t take longer than 20 minutes though my brother helped me set everything up. I also clicked instantly with the controls since it mimics the same simple up/down switch in electric windlasses.

To be honest, I was a little hesitant because I have heard other buyers complain about the durability. I’m glad I ignored them because mine is still smoking the competition, even those with twice or thrice its price tag, with close to a year of regular use. The Lewmar seal and the 3-year warranty also did well to quell my doubts.

The self-locking feature sealed the deal for me since that means I do not need to use cleats. Even though rode stowage in anchor lockers has rarely been an issue for me, I appreciate that this one removes the need for it altogether.

It’s able to retrieve my 23-lb delta anchor quite fast in most bottoms. This windlass always seems to easily pop it out of the depths as if it bit poorly every time. No chain slips whatsoever and just straightforward, consistent performance.

• Outstanding performance
• Easy to install and use
• Cheap but has a 3-year warranty
• Quick and smooth anchor retrieval
• Self-locking and forgoes the need to keep the rode in the anchor locker
• Dubious durability

This behemoth of a windlass packs a punch in pulling power, and it does so with style and a whole lot of neat bonuses.

Five Oceans windlass reviews are almost always quick to praise the impressive strength of the brand’s creations. However, I’m more satisfied with what’s included in the whole package. They really make the hefty price tag worth it.

Nevertheless, one of the things I love about it is its exceptional strength. I fitted it to my 41′ center console largely because of the whopping 1650-lb pulling power. I wanted a vertical windlass that I know would allow me to be more at ease with my anchoring . It’s safe to say that I got more than what I bargained for.

I’ve fished with this workhorse in Lake Erie before, and it always managed close to 200 pounds of algae and muck like they weighed nothing. It’s as consistent as it’s powerful, as I’ve never had a non-satisfactory experience with this tool.

The brand also didn’t skimp on the stainless steel material. You can immediately tell it is seaworthy as it won’t bend under pressure and, more importantly, will last for several years. I bet even the most finicky old salts will give it a good nod of appreciation.

I love that they took the time to throw in a footswitch as an alternative option for control. This is rare as far as most windlass anchor brands are concerned. I soon realized how thoroughly convenient it is, especially if you want to quickly set off or simply don’t want to go to the deck or use your hands to control it.

• Very beefy pull
• Consistent performance
• Contains foot switch
• Designed to last
• Appealing style
• Quite hard to install

Fishing fanatics who want a trusty sidekick for all their anchoring needs could not ask for a better windlass. It’s practically made for them!

Being an avid angler myself, I can’t help but be drawn to this specialized windlass, especially since it’s made by such an iconic brand. It’s my practice to anchor whenever I get to my target fishing spot. Right off the bat, I was able to tell just why this makes any fisherman’s life easier.

After all, Lewmar threw in an automatic free-fall option, which is one of my favorite features. I’ll always have a soft spot for windlasses that can pull off quick and accurate free-fall anchoring. That’s exactly what I got from this product.

I tend to move around from spot to spot when fishing in Lake Erie, and every time, I need to adjust the anchor. This is one of the few windlasses that helps me achieve that quickly. I’d recommend this to boaters who struggle with free-falls for this reason.

When Lewmar said fast line speed, it definitely meant it. I was amazed by how quickly it raised my 450’ rode and 28-lb Danforth anchor in one of my Lake Erie fishing excursions. It took less than 4 minutes, at most.

Lewmar is also generous with its warranty terms on this one. A 5-year manufacturer’s warranty plus 1-year on the motor proves it’s worth the price tag.

• Made specifically for fishing vessels
• Precise automatic free-fall feature that helps save fuel
• Very fast anchor retrieval
• 5-year manufacturer’s warranty and a 1-year warranty on motor
• Doesn’t denote the exact rode requirements in its product details

This electric anchor windlass is all about being lightweight, and I mean that in a very good way. Outstandingly low-cost and compact, Pactrade Marine’s anchor winch offers out-of-the-box solutions to small-boat captains.

I sometimes take my 14′ catboat for lake fishing, so I decided it’s time to fit it with a windlass. Of course, I wanted something that won’t be a pain to install. That’s one of the main reasons why I chose this Pactrade Marine creation.

The relatively short bow roller adds to the compactness, and alignment was a breeze. Once installed, everything worked smoothly, no adjustments were needed. While the controls aren’t wireless, I feel as though you don’t really need them to be since this windlass is marketed towards people who do single-hand tiny-vessel sailing and fishing.

I’ve heard great things about the brand, too, particularly how they offer all-in-one anchoring solutions . I think everything included with this anchor, considering the price, makes it nothing short of a bargain. The freshwater rope fits perfectly with my purposes, and its 100′ length supports most water depths.

My grapnel anchor weighs exactly 20-lb. Since that’s the product’s limit, I was ready to purchase a lighter replacement. I’m glad I gave it a try anyway because it handles it smoothly in all the times I’ve used it. The light rope rode doesn’t add too much to ground tackle weight, but it’s sturdy.

That being said, I make it a point to keep the motor’s burden to a minimum. I feel it’s intended to last long, considering the extra corrosion protection. Mine still shows no signs of wear after 6 months.

• Easy to install
• Complete package
• Reliable operation
• Reinforced corrosion protection
• Hard to replace the original rope
• Rope limited to 100′

Compact and powerful, two qualities you’d always want to have in any windlass you’re using, and which sums up what makes the PRO-Series 700 highly favored among owners of medium-sized vessels.

This windlass consistently makes it to a lot of windlass reviews, and it’s really not hard to see why. The general design immediately gives you the impression of how compact it is.

Due to the notable space-saving capabilities of this windlass, it’s relatively friendly with the kinds of bows you can integrate it to. I installed it in my 30’ center console with the help of a friend, and the entire process took around 2 hours.

The gypsy’s friction nut can be torqued tightly to the point that I would consider it a miracle if I encounter any slipping with my rodes with this windlass. I do have a qualm about it, which I’ll explain below. Other than that, it hits the pulling power sweet spot — too sweet, in fact, as I’ve never had a small windlass as powerful as this.

With all these factors working in synergy, the 700 PRO-Series guarantees a solid anchor retrieval performance. As for cons, with the price considered, I feel the free-fall feature should have been included and not bought as an add-on.

Additionally, one issue I noticed is concerned with torquing the gypsy cone. While I did say that it can be torqued nice and tight, I feel that Lewmar’s instructions to do it all the way actually does more harm than good.

Why? Well, according to my experience, it puts extra strain on the gears because the anchor tends to slam in place on the bow roller every time I retrieve it.

• Highly compact
• Relatively uncomplicated installation
• Very slip-resistant gypsy
• Free-fall feature needs to be purchased separately
• Too tight gypsy cone results in the anchor slamming when retrieved

Herculean strength characterizes this robust windlass. But it’s ultimately its versatility, coupled with that power, that makes it a complete, well-designed system.

Disclaimer: I don’t actually own this windlass. However, I’ve become well-acquainted with how it works and what its standout qualities are. This is because I happen to be a regular passenger of my fishing buddy’s Boston whaler boat, on which this brawny horizontal windlass is but one of the few eye-catching hardware.

To prove this windlass’s strong pull, you only need to think of retrieving 500’ of rode with a hefty anchor completely begrimed by mud and seaweed. I’ve seen this beast pull that off like magic every time. It makes it look easy, much like how easy it is to install since I also happen to have had a hand in affixing it to my buddy’s boat.

My friend’s been enjoying this workhorse’s assistance for 4 years since he got it back when it was just fresh in the market. He expects to get plenty of mileage from it now that he means to do most of his fishing single-hand. With its general make-up, I wouldn’t be surprised if he does manage to achieve it.

I like that Maxwell didn’t pull punches when upping its durability, considering it’s horizontal. The watertight case that houses most of the important windlass anchor parts can be opened easily for convenient maintenance. I have yet to spot leaking and rusting in my friend’s model.

• Unrivaled power
• Decent anchor retrieval speed
• Watertight case eliminates common leaking and corrosion issues
• Very durable and not hard to install
• Could use a price cut

The Marine HRC FF-8 is all about excellence in construction. With its one-of-a-kind features, it puts to shame other brands within its price point.

This windlass is probably the best on this list as far as design is concerned. I haven’t gotten any rode transmission issues with this windlass, and I’ve been using it for 4 years in my other scarab. There’s no substitute for the word “smart” when describing its design.

Who could possibly hate the automatic free-fall feature? It’s a must-have for any seadog who doesn’t want to lift heavy anchors just to free fall. I prefer to be able to sit back when doing this, and I’m glad I get no less than that with this winch.

Comparing power output to others in the same price range, this overtakes the competition by miles. I regularly use this with a 150′ chain and 250′ rope with a 28-lb Danforth, and it has not given me any of the usual snarls and jams I get from some of my other setups.

Retrieval is relatively quick. Installation was also done in just an hour, but that should be expected from a horizontal winch. I’ve had this for years but have only had to deal with minor rust buildup that can be taken care of in no time.

Another reason to love this product is that Maxwell is run by knowledgeable and accommodating staff. I got first-hand support for installing this windlass in my brother’s Marine Trader 34. Although I do have to make it clear that that was more than 3 years ago. One more thing: most of the parts can be quickly replaced compared to other brands.

• A smart design that prevents most common windlass issues
• More powerful than other products in its price point
• Time- and energy-saving automatic free-fall feature
• Excellent brand customer support
• Expensive wireless remote kit

Despite not being as popular as the other brands mentioned here, Five Oceans proves it can go toe-to-toe with other more established companies by bringing this power-packed windlass to the fore. With it, affordability meets power and versatility.

In my opinion, it’s not so much the windlass as the entire collection of accompanying bonuses that serve to raise its value-for-money. Most anchor windlasses are discussed and presented in the context of systems. It’s safe to say that with everything that comes with the Five Oceans 600, no better product deserves the term “system”.

After all, everything that comes with this windlass is something I’ll always have the impulse to search out to complete my setups. I’ve already declared my affinity for footswitches, so that’s a given. But the fact that it also comes with its own circuit breaker and switch solenoid seals the deal. This spares me from going through all the trouble of looking for compatible components.

It might pale in comparison to its 1,000W cousin, but the 600W motor of this windlass still pushes to a maximum of 1,200 lbs. I haven’t done exact measurements of its power but it handles my Kodiak 38-lb delta anchor without much strain. That said, I’ve mostly only let it down on loose mud when I’m cruising.

• Complete system once installed
• Above-average pulling power
• Limited to 3-strand rope

Lightning-fast anchor sets are always within an arms’ reach with this Powerwinch windlass. That may sound like an exaggeration but in all my years of anchoring, I’ve never enjoyed a faster setter than this gem of a windlass.

This used to be the original windlass on my 41’ center console, and I felt it deserved a spot here because I was a bit of a free-fall junkie in my earlier sailing years. The quicker time to set will always appeal to me, and the speed is just too noticeable to ignore.

I’ve lost count of the numerous times this neat contraption saved me when anchoring in tricky waters. I really have to thank the simple mechanism and control of this windlass, which is not surprising since it’s mainly a free-fall windlass. Sure, I missed the mark occasionally but the number of times I had successful sets readily make up for them.

I like that it accommodates standard rode splices. This 41’ Class requires a ⅝” three-strand rope and, contrary to a common misconception, it supports 5/16” hi-test too. I went over the manual for that exact information since I struggled to feed it with most of my available chains.

My model was also fairly low maintenance. I used it for 5 years before I decided to replace it, and I only had to do weekly to monthly cleanups of the inner components. I never had to replace a single part nor had to deal with major rust problems.

The downside should be evident if you like to fish. Free-fall anchors might let you anchor 4x quicker than power-down models, but the resulting splash tends to scare the bass away.

• Ideal for quick and convenient anchoring
• Simple controls
• Compatible with standard chain/rope splices
• Proven to last long
• Not recommended for fishing

Anchors tend to get stuck and once they do, it requires plenty of pulling power to break them out. Even the sheer weight of most anchors can become an issue for a lot of sailors, especially older ones who no longer possess the strength and back power to weigh them. An anchor windlass, also called a marine anchor winch, can serve as a substitute for that.

Most showcase enough strength or pulling power, which is measured in pounds to weigh even the heftiest of rodes and anchors in record time. This is why a lot of sailors are more than happy to delegate the grunt work to these contraptions. Many also help them save time and offer plenty of much-needed assistance during inclement weather.

Do take note, though, that a lot of people misunderstand their pulling power. Despite their manufacturers making it clear how windlasses are designed, many still believe the false claim that they can help pull boats against strong winds or break anchors out of bottoms where it’s clearly impossible to do so. As much as possible, the strain should not exceed the hanging weight of the rode and anchor.

While its type often dictates how an anchor windlass works, vertical and horizontal windlasses do share basic functionalities.

For one, both use a gypsy or chain wheel to raise or lower the anchor and the rode to a given depth. With an appropriate rode in place, the wheel, once it starts turning, should engage the chain’s links or the rope being used as a rode.

Manual, Electric, and Hydraulic Windlasses

Of course, this movement can either be powered manually, hydraulically or electrically. Those run by electric motors are often regarded, albeit, as an automatic boat anchor . Since we’re talking about the one that is most convenient for sailors, I focused mostly on hydraulic and electric windlasses in my windlass anchor reviews.

But that’s not to say that manual windlasses have no positive points. They let you exercise more control on how you’re going to lower or raise your anchor. You simply get a better feel of it, at least, in my experience as well as in others.

Also, we can’t deny that you save plenty of fuel if you choose manual. But among the most experienced seadogs nowadays, electric or hydraulic windlasses are the overwhelming favorites since they’re more convenient, reliable, and perform better in a crisis.

I would say electric windlasses are the most practical since they’re easier to operate while hydraulic systems are often difficult to set up but less hard to maintain in the long run. Hydraulic windlasses often limit themselves to big yachts as well since they’re the only vessels capable of housing a hydraulic system.

Using a windlass to tip anchors continues to be a matter of debate. Some sailors argue that certain manufacturers already anticipate sailors doing that so they beef up their products’ maximum pull capacity. On the flip side, you have “purists” who stick to using the windlass for lowering and raising the anchor only.

Whether you own a mid-range Goode windlass or a more dynamic Maxwell winch, not knowing what separates a vertical windlass from its horizontal counterpart would render both windlasses useless. Here’s how each one works.

Horizontal Windlass

This windlass is named as such because its main shaft containing the motor and gypsy runs horizontally. It’s usually easier to install because it’s done above-deck. However, you still have to make sure that it’s precisely aligned with the bow roller since you have a limited range of rode feed unlike in a vertical winch.

It has two other major drawbacks, namely the fact that all the components are more exposed to the elements. Manufacturers do their best to address this by reinforcing their casings with corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel, besides making them watertight.

Horizontal windlasses commonly wrap around the gypsy at only 90°, which is another disadvantage since this leads to a higher risk of rode slippings. Still, companies like Maxwell have introduced workarounds with their designs. Furthermore, many can compete with vertical windlasses in getting the job done.

Vertical Windlass

This is simply the exact opposite of a horizontal windlass in that the shaft is positioned vertically. There’s a good number of reasons why sailors prefer vertical windlasses despite them being harder and taking a longer time to install.

They’re usually compact once fully operational and help to save space on your deck and bow. The motor is kept below-deck, in the anchor locker, adding an extra layer of protection and minimizing maintenance costs.

Being vertical also means the rode has 180° wrap around the chain wheel, which is obviously more secure. Most come with spring-loaded fingers that keep the rope or chain securely wound to the gypsy.

These winches have a wider range of feed so you won’t have to worry too much about aligning it with a bow roller. Finally, most rope/chain rode combinations work best with vertical windlasses.

With a fully operational anchor windlass, you will be able to enjoy these notable advantages:

• Quicker, more efficient, and close to effortless anchor retrieval.
• Reduces the chances of the anchor dragging.
• Help older sailors or people with conditions that limit their physical activity.
• Saves time anchoring and re-anchoring.
• Help you get out of a rut.
• Helps you save on fuel since most allow you to skip adjusting your anchors.

Most boat windlass reviews may be all too eager to showcase the undeniable advantages of an anchor windlass. Nevertheless, they are not without their downsides such as:

• Some horizontal windlasses take up a lot of deck space. This could be a problem for smaller boats since windlass power is often, at least as far as most brands are concerned, relative to its size.
• Mastering their proper use takes time. A lot of boaters tend to “abuse” their windlasses by improperly kedging with them or using the motor to pop out a stubborn, stuck anchor. These often lead to quick wear and tear that would render the entire setup useless after just a few times of use.
• Proper use could not be asserted more since handling or, at least, getting close to a running electric windlass can lead to risks of losing a finger or even a limb. What’s worse is that the danger isn’t limited to that since electric windlasses, particularly their power cables, can turn into a fire hazard as well. This can be offset by a hydraulic windlass as its motor virtually has zero chance to overheat.

Landing the right windlass for your boat can turn your anchoring into a breezy, even heavenly, experience. The opposite is a nightmare. Or worse, you end up having no choice but to resell the product you chose because it simply didn’t fit in your boat.

It would be better to consider a windlass first before buying an anchor. However, if you already have one, you should make a note of its weight as well as these other factors:

• Boat Size – Most windlass manufacturers indicate the maximum size their products are compatible with.
• Boat Type – Certain boats have bows that can impact how and where you’re going to install the windlass. If you’re a stickler for style or don’t want the windlass to look out of place, this is important to consider.
• Anchor Rode – Same as the anchor, it’s best to consider the type of rode that’s suitable for your prospective windlass before making your decision. Not all gypsies support both rope and chain combinations. The rode’s length figures into calculating the right pulling power relative to ground tackle weight.
• Chain Size – The size of the chain affects the ground tackle weight as well.
• Anchoring Conditions – What conditions do you typically encounter? Making a note of the bottoms and debris you expect your anchor to pull up can go a long way in helping you get the most suitable windlass.
• Displacement – Boats with higher displacement typically require more pulling power to get them moving toward the anchor’s direction. That is, of course, assuming you’ll be using a powerful windlass that can and has been specifically designed to handle the additional strain. However, most experienced sailors dissuade using the windlass this way since this responsibility falls mainly on the boat’s motor.

Regarding Ground Tackle Weight and Pulling Power

To help you make a better decision about what windlass to get in terms of pulling power, you simply have to look at two factors: anchor weight and the total ground tackle.

To calculate the ground tackle weight, you only need to add the total weights of the anchor and rode. Afterward, to determine the exact pulling power you need, just multiply the total value by three to get the specific amount represented in pounds.

Most of the maintenance can be done weekly or even monthly. In fact, some windlasses are so well-built that they only require minimal servicing, while others can even make do without it for years! Nevertheless, it pays off to conduct regular maintenance because you get to ensure your windlass is performing at its best. Here are a couple of tips.

• Wipe and polish the metal exterior or surface. You can use a mix of water and mild soap for portions that are painted. Saltwater only leads to corrosion, and if your model is not well-protected from it, you might want to do this more regularly. You’d be significantly extending your windlass’s life this way.
• Do weekly or monthly inspections of the matter depending on how often you use your windlass. Horizontal windlass motors are accessible above-deck so always make it a point to check for signs of rust on it, and yes, you should do this even if it’s encased. Any signs of corrosion should be dealt with immediately to keep it from spreading.
• Keep an eye out for any signs of damage on the rode, and I mean the entire length of it. The rope you’re using might have frayed, which could affect the windlass’s operation. I’ve gotten snags from cases like this, and more often than not, it grinds everything to a halt.
• It also won’t hurt to lubricate the chain wheel. You’ll have to consult the official manual of your model before you do this. Be sure to use the appropriate lubricant as indicated. Otherwise, you can ask the company about what steps to take.
• Lastly, inspect the power cables and wires connected to the motor. I’ve heard reports of vessels catching fire because of faulty wirings. Don’t leave them exposed to moisture, especially if you see parts where the wiring insulation is beginning to wear off.

Who makes the top-rated anchor windlass?

All the brands mentioned here have their merits, and I won’t hesitate to recommend any of the products listed. But if I need to choose a safe bet, I’d go with Maxwell or Lewmar.

Lewmar has been around for years and has established itself as a leader in windlasses. One of their anchor windlass for sale, the V700, pushes the limits of how compact windlasses can get. It is an all-around brand that manages to deliver consistency in windlass performance without breaking your bank account.

Maxwell, on the other hand, has more clout in their designs, and the materials they use to ensure ace performance as well as durability. I’d even go as far as to say that they incorporate better features than most brands.

Even though I’ve never owned a Lofrans windlass, I’ve heard from first-hand feedback that their products last for a long time. That’s one brand you need to keep an eye out for if that’s your number one priority.

How to install?

Windlass anchor install experts usually rely on this saying, “Measure twice, cut once.” Every windlass and boat is different, but the accurate measurement is one common denominator they share with regards to this topic. Once you drill holes, they become permanent and could only cost you damage expenses if done improperly.

Unless you have an extremely old boat, you most likely won’t have to worry about reinforcing your deck. Other than that, you also have to make sure that the chain wheel is accurately aligned with the bow roller. Additionally, figure out the right angle for the chain once it’s fed to the windlass.

The usual accessories you will be needing are anchor rollers, circuit breakers, remote controls, toggle switches, footswitches, chain stoppers, and chain markers.

Also take note that if you’re installing a large windlass, it’s common practice to place a battery near it, usually in the V-berth.

Of course, you can always rely on professional help when installing your windlass if you aren’t confident about getting it done yourself.

How to operate an anchor windlass?

Operation largely depends on the type of windlass. Doing it manually usually involves turning the chain wheel with the help of a winch handle. You can do any number of rotations until you feel that you’ve set the anchor properly or have raised it back up.

For most motor-powered windlasses, you often only need to press the up/down switch to either raise or lower the anchor. Free-fall commonly requires you to just press and hold the appropriate button for a few seconds. These are assuming you’ve already pinpointed your anchoring spot.

Once it’s set, lock the chain in place with the chain locker. Don’t forget to attach a snubber, which is also called a bridle, to the rode to keep the anchor secure and the load off the windlass.

Where can I buy?

Plenty of products are available on Amazon, and you can get reliable user feedback from most of the ones listed. You can also visit the official websites and online stores of the brands I mentioned here.

As long as you install the right windlass, you’ll be thanking it generously for all the back-breaking anchoring troubles it would keep away for good.

The best anchor windlass is what consistently gives you the best possible cruising or fishing experience simply because you can confidently delegate most of the anchoring weight, both figuratively and literally, on it.

I am passionate about water sports and technical fields, so combining both makes me interested in making contents about boat accessories. With my partner, we went on many trips and sports games together, which led us to think about how we can spread our joys and passions to many people.

Open to the Public!

• Anchor & Dock

Anchor Windlasses

Horizontal Windlasses

Vertical Windlasses

Anchor Rodes

Switches & Solenoids

Maxwell Covered Foot Switch

Maxwell Marine Covered Foot Switch Maxwell heavy-duty, weather resistant units have a UV stabilized water proof diaphragm and are supplied complete with mounting instructions and screws. Rated at 200 amps and suitable for 12V or 24V applications...

Lewmar Premium 3-Strand Anchor Rodes

Lewmar Premium 3-Strand Anchor Rodes - Marine Grade with Rope & Galvanized Chain Lewmar anchor rodes are a great economical choice for boaters looking for a windlass rode. These rodes are designed to work with the rope-chain gypsies fitted to all...

Lewmar 8 Plait Anchor Rode

Lewmar Anchor Line 8 Plait Lewmar Anchor Rodes feature 8 plait nylon line joined with a tapered splice to ACCO Hi-Test hot-dipped galvanized chain. Each anchor rode comes with a shackle to attach the chain to the anchor. Anchor rodes complement rope...

Sea Dog 316 Stainless Anchor Swivel

Sea-Dog Stainless Steel Anchor Swivels Sea Dog investment cast AISI 316 stainless steel swivel anchor connectors are designed to easily slide of anchor rollers, preventing snagging which minimizes wear on the bow roller and windlass. These precision,...

White Deck Foot Switch

Lewmar White Deck Foot Switch Lewmar deck foot switches are single direction switches and come ready to install. With a hinged cover to prevent accidental operation, they are suitable for DC electric windlasses running on 12 or 24 volts and must be used...

Lewmar V700 Vertical Windlass w/ Solenoid & Rocker Switch

Lewmar V700 Vertical Windlass w/ Solenoid & Switch With its 100% 316 stainless steel housing and a sleek flush-mount design that conceals the motor, the economical Lewmar V700 Vertical Windlass is one of the most attractive and durable components...

Maxwell 8-Plait Nylon Anchor Rode

Maxwell Marine 8-Plait Nylon Anchor Rode 8-Plait Nylon Anchor Rode for Anchor Windlasses.  Maxwell Marine 8-Plait Nylon Anchor Rode

Maxwell SP5104 Reversing Solenoid

Maxwell Marine SP5104 Reversing Solenoid 12V DUAL DIRECTION SOLENOID Used in conjunction with remote up/down panel, Auto Anchor™ 500C/RC, roving hand held remote control and/or foot switches to switch the motor in the required direction...

Sea Dog Windlass Foot Switch

FOOT SWITCH- Stamped 304 Stainless/Rubber Cover. Switch is normally off with momentary on when deppressed by foot. 30 Amps

Maxwell Emergency Crank Handle F/RC & Freedom Series

Maxwell Marine Emergency Crank Handle F/RC & Freedom Series For use with RC8, RC10 Series anchor winches. Two sizes are available to suit the constraints of most foredeck configurations. Constructed of light weight, durable injection-moulded...

Lewmar Pro-Fish 1000 Windlass

Lewmar Pro-Fish 1000 Windlass The NEW Freefall Horizontal Windlass is the ultimate windlass for fishermen. The horizontal Pro-Fish has an automatic freefall that allows you to pull right up over a wreck or ledge, and drop anchor with speed and precision...

TRAC Anchor Rode

TRAC Anchor Rode TRAC Anchor Rode is a strong yet cost-effective rope and chain combination designed to work with all TRAC brand and other drum winches or windlasses. This rope and chain combination is made of premium windlass-grade double braided nylon...

Lewmar Pro-Series 700 Horizontal Windlass Kit w/ Switch & Solenoid

Lewmar Pro-Series 700 Horizontal Windlass Kit w/ Switch & Solenoid Praised by professionals worldwide, the horizontal Pro-Series is a shining example of Lewmars commitment to provide quality products for boats from 6m-11.5m (20-38ft). Its DIY-ready,...

Maxwell Up/Down Anchor Switch

Maxwell Marine Up/Down Anchor Switch Easy to use panel-mounted Up/Down switch for remote windlass operation from the helm, flying bridge or cockpit. Available for use with dual-directional solenoids. Manufactured from marine-grade materials. Splash...

Lewmar Pro-Sport 550 Windlass

Lewmar Pro-Sport 550 Windlass Lewmar's Pro-Sport rope/chain windlass is designed as an economical package for rope and chain applications, without compromise to quality or performance. Pro-Sport is designed around a highly efficient spur gearbox, using...

Lewmar Guarded Rocker Switch

Lewmar Guarded Rocker Switch Lewmar's Guarded Rocker Switch controls the up and down function of all Lewmar anchor windlass models. The switch can be mounted at the helm as the main switch for operation, or mounted at a second station as a secondary...

Lewmar V700 Windlass Replacement Motor Kit

Lewmar V700 Windlass Replacement Motor Kit This is a genuine Lewmar OEM replacement motor kit for a V700 Windlass.

Lewmar Pro-Fish 700 Horizontal Free Fall Windlass

Lewmar Pro-Fish 700 Free Fall Windlass with Switch & Solenoid The Lewmar Pro-Fish is the ultimate windlass for fishermen. This windlass has an automatic freefall that allows you to pull right up over a wreck or ledge and drop anchor with speed and...

Maxwell 135 AMP Breaker/Isolator Panel

Maxwell Marine 135 AMP Breaker/Isolator Panel Maxwell circuit breaker/isolator panels are available to suit a wide range of windlasses and capstans. For protection of the main conductor circuit for DC winches Mount as close as possible to the...

Maxwell 80 AMP Breaker/Isolator Panel

Maxwell Marine 80 AMP Breaker/Isolator Panel Maxwell circuit breaker/isolator panels are available to suit a wide range of windlasses and capstans. For protection of the main conductor circuit for DC winches Mount as close as possible to the battery...

Windlasses, also commonly called winches, are a key element of every boat’s anchoring system. These devices are engineered to restrain and manage anchor chains so that they can be lowered or hoisted from the water. Notches located in the anchor windlasses’ gear wheel engage the links of the chain or anchor roping. These are the integral elements in every anchoring system that receive a lot of wear and tear through strain and friction and occasionally require replacement. Whenever any of your boat’s windlasses malfunction, give Wholesale Marine a call. Our team will have you safely back on the water in no time! Everyone at Wholesale Marine is well-versed in windlass anchor systems and can offer sound advice on exactly what part of your anchoring system your boat requires.

Leading Marine Brands of Windlass Anchors

You can depend on Wholesale Marine to maintain an inventory of only the best brands of windlasses including Anchorlift , Lewmar Marine , Maxwell , Powerwinch , Sea Dog Marine , and Trac Outdoor . Whether you are seeking a dependable windlass like the Lewmar V700 Vertical Windlass with Solenoid and Rocker Switch or a simple Anchor Rode from TRAC , you’ll find the solution to your anchoring system at Wholesale Marine.

There are numerous considerations you should be aware of when selecting a windlass, so be sure to consult with the team at Wholesale Marine for the best advice. Making the right windlass anchor choice will ensure many successful seasons of secure anchoring. You can also always rely on Wholesale Marine to stock the right parts at affordable prices. Be sure to contact us if you have questions about windlass anchors or if you need to place an order. We’re available at (877) 388-262, Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM EST. Be sure to ask about our Captains Club Rewards Program for additional savings when shopping at Wholesale Marine.

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• Pontoon Boats
• Personal Watercraft
• nauticalknowhow
• Nautical Knots
• Tools and Calculators

The 7 Best Electric Boat Anchor Winches for 2024

Minn Kota Anchor Winch

Trac Outdoors Pontoon 35 Electric Anchor Winch

Pactrade Marine 35 Electric Motor Winch

Not every boater thinks of getting an electric anchor winch at first. If you are serious about boating, it really is a must have item. Whether you like to fish on your bass boat or just relax at sea, a winch can be a lifesaver. Manual hauling of your anchor is something any boater gets sick of really fast.

Choosing the best electric anchor winch involves a few factors. You need to make sure it will work for your size boat and anchor. It’s also important to choose a saltwater winch if you’re at sea rather than inland. The last thing you want is a freshwater winch in the ocean. Let’s take a look at some of the best electric anchor winches on the market. These should be more than adequate for any kind of boat you may have.

The Minn Kota Pontoon Deckhand is hands down one of the best electric anchor winches. This winch is rated for a 40lb anchor. That means you want to scale back to at least 35lbs. Lower is fine as well. Remember, the reason for this is to ensure your winch lasts as long as it can. Pushing a winch to capacity, like with a 40lb anchor, is going to cause it to burn out too soon. Always go at least 5 or 10lbs less than recommended.

The winch comes pre-spooled with 100 feet of rope. That’s pretty standard in the industry. In this case it’s an 800lb test nylon rope. That should be able to stand up to whatever you need. Remember the rule for depth is 3:1. If you fish deeper waters, you’ll need more rope.

The universal davit can stay with the winch or be mounted further away. It allows you to store the anchor horizontally. Other features include a quick release, a remote control and a quick connect plug. Take note that this is not a cordless remote, instead it’s a corder remote. A corded remote is bad for a TV but not terrible for a winch. It’s much harder to lose a corded remote, afterall. The cord is 25 feet long, in case you were wondering. That means you still have freedom of movement on deck.

There is an anti-drag system which is extremely helpful as well. It senses when the anchor hits bottom. This means you’ll endure less drifting.

Installation is fairly easy with this winch. Give yourself an hour and you should be hand. It’s extremely versatile in the ways you can mount it, which is great. It can find a place to fit in nearly all boat shapes and sizes.

Minn Kota offers a two year warranty. That puts it ahead of a number of other brands. It’s worth noting that the battery cable is actually pretty short. This can affect where you plan to install it unless you get additional wiring.

• Buy on Amazon   →
• Buy on Bass Pro   →
• Buy on Walmart   →

The Trac Outdoors 35 is ideal for pontoon boats . It can work with any boat up to a 35lb anchor, though. You’ll see throughout our reviews we always tweak those numbers. If it says 35lbs, we recommend 30 lbs or less. The reason is that an electric winch should never have to run at full capacity. The strain on the motor will cause it to wear out far too soon. Always go at least 5lbs lower with your anchor weight.

This winch comes spool with 100 feet of 800lb test rope. It’s 3/16-inch braided anchor rope so expect it to have some durability. The gears are all steel and can be expected to last. The motor is 12-volt and won’t cause havoc with your boat’s battery. We always recommend the use of extra solar panels if you are worried about battery drain. Solar panels are easy to install and can provide a real boost to your boat’s energy levels.

The anchor roller can be integrated with the winch or used separately. It all depends on the size of your boat and how you install it. That versatility makes it ideal for many boat shapes and sizes.

Installation is easy with the included instructions. Expect to spend about 30 minutes or so getting it done. There are handy videos on YouTube which can walk you through the process if need be. All the hardware you need is included.

The wiring is all marine grade. That means it will resist corrosion. There is a sealed membrane to hold out water and keep the inner workings alive and kicking. The winch can drop anchor at 70 feet per minute. It reels it back in again at 65 feet per minute. The entire unit is compact which makes it ideal for smaller boats.

Trac offers a one-year warranty on the winch to give you peace of mind. If you see a trac anchor winch review that mentions two years, check the date on it. That may have been true back in the day, but not right now.

With the price and the features available, this is our pick for the best overall winch. It has everything you need and is reliable. It doesn’t have a wireless remote control, but that’s really a premium feature, we think. If you need a versatile and high quality electric winch, look here.

Pactrade ranks in with a solid entry. The Marine 35 is their freshwater electric winch. You definitely don’t want to put this in saltwater. It will get corroded very fast. It will also void the warranty, so keep that in mind.

The 12-V motor is low amp and draws little power. As with any electrical components, if you’re worried, try adding solar panels to offset the draw. The wiring is marine type 14-gauge. That means it’s going to be pretty reliable. The winch works best with mushroom and river anchors.

As the name implies, this is rated for a 35lb anchor. We recommend 30lb or even 25 for maximum benefit. The braided rope is 100 feet and has an 700lb break strength. Some sites that sell these say it’s 800lbs. Pactrade’s own info says 700lb, so trust them. Many other ropes will get to 800lbs. If you’re used to 800lb strength, be extra cautious here. It may not stand up to some of the abuse you’re used to.

The switch is part of the winch cover and offers power up and down. The anti-reverse internal clutch will stop that spooling problem.

For the price, you’re not likely to find a winch this reliable. It doesn’t include a remote control, however. As we said, the rope may be a little underpowered as well. But it’s also very easy to upgrade if need be.The foundation is solid and very affordable.

Pactrade offers a one-year warranty on the winch. The kit comes with everything needed for installation as well. You may want to check out some videos on YouTube if you’re not familiar with the wiring you’ll need to do.

Pactrade Marine Pontoon Salt Water Electric Winch

Pactrade’s saltwater electric winch for pontoon boats is reliable and affordable. The 12-V, 150 watt motor is powerful but energy efficient. It’s not going to drain your battery dry by any means. And if you’re worried, using an extra solar panel to offset the draw is always an option. With the power available, the winch pulls a respectable 3800 revolutions per minute.

The cover is UV protected to handle long days in the sun better than most. The 10-gauge wire is tin plated. That helps resist corrosion out on the sea. The case is sealed to keep the sea water out as well.All hardware is stainless steel.

In terms of features, one nice touch Pactrade included is the safety cable. That can secure your anchor when not in use. The anti-reverse internal clutch won’t allow your rope to get tangled as you reel it in.

This is rated to handle a 20lb anchor. That’s definitely on the low end of the spectrum. The bow roller is also a little short for this winch. That means it’s definitely better suited to a smaller boat. If you have a larger boat, try one of our other suggestions. However, for a smaller saltwater vessel, this is ideal.

Power 4S 12V Anchor Winch

If you’re looking for a saltwater winch, the Power 4s may work well. Perfect for a pontoon boat with a 30lb anchor. It comes pre-spooled with 100 feet of rope and a remote control for easy operation. As with all of our recommendations, you may want to tweak the weight capacity here. This is rated for a 30lb anchor. We recommend dropping to 25lb or even 20 if possible. It’s never a good idea to push a winch to its limits. This is not a requirement, just a suggestion. It can help eliminate the potential for accidents or breaks.

There is a sealed membrane switch and 10-gauge tin plated battery wire. This is all to reduce corrosion and shock risk. As a saltwater anchor winch, it needs that extra protection. Power up and down is available and also a freefall mode for the anchor. The mounting equipment includes clips to hold the remote control in place as well. There is no fuse to install and it comes with a circuit breaker.

The Power 4S has a seperate anchor davit. The roller can be positioned close to the winch or moved away. It’s easy to adjust based on which position works best. The kit includes 100´×0.20″(30.5m×5mm) braided anchor rope. When installed, it offers a 70 ft(21.3m) per minute no-load rope retrieval speed. It’s strong and sturdy and should handle your needs well.

There is a one-year warranty that is included with the winch as well. It may not be the best in the industry in terms of time. Still, compared to a winch that offers no warranty at all, it’s a superior choice.

Saltwater winches can get pricey. In fact, our next winch is nearly double the price of this one. But if you need one that doesn’t require a huge weight capacity, this is a solid option.

$382.00 Amazon  →

Prosport 550 Windlass

The Pro Sport 550 Gypsy Windlass is a serious piece of machinery. This is rated for 550 lbs. That’s the boat working with the anchor, of course. You wouldn’t have a 550lb anchor. That said, this is rated to handle boats up to 28 feet. Pay heed to this. Amazon lists it at 40 feet. Lewmar’s own product details recommend 28 feet. It can handle a heavy anchor though, and it is fast. Not dangerously so, but faster than other models we have listed.

This is one of the models that does not come with a rope already spooled. We included it because it is a powerful winch. If you have a larger boat, this may be the best electric anchor winch for you.

Like the other winches it has a low power draw. It doesn’t use a remote control but the kit for installation includes the mounting hardware you need. You’ll find the mounting gasket, circuit breaker, toggle, and studs. Installation is totally DIY. It may seem daunting but you can probably get it done in 30 to 40 minutes. Follow the included installation instructions and you should be fine.

The windlass features a manual freefall and dual direction power. It has an above-deck installation. It uses small, permanent magnet motors for reliable power. The center case is made from aluminum while the side covers are composite. That means it’s saltwater ready. It can stand up to the corrosion others can’t. Keep in mind you still want to keep it clean and dry whenever possible.

Lewmar offers a three year warranty on this windlass. That’s a definite bonus to offer peace of mind if you’re concerned. If you want maximum anchor capacity this may be the best electric winch for you.

$790.08 Amazon  →

Picking the Best Electric Boat Anchor Winches

There are two main types of electric boat anchor winches. It should come as no surprise you can get an electric boat anchor winch for saltwater or freshwater. You never want to use a freshwater boat anchor winch in saltwater. If it has not been designed for saltwater, it’s a recipe for disaster.

A saltwater electric winch will be designed to resist corrosion. This is very important. A freshwater electric winch is designed for use in lakes and rivers. These are often cheaper than saltwater winches.

In addition to the water it’s used in, your winch can have different orientations. That means the anchor winch can be set up to operate horizontally or vertically.

Horizontal Electric Boat Winch: These are typically used on smaller boats. If you don’t have the space for a vertical winch, this may work for you. It can handle more than one anchor as well. The downside of a horizontal winch is that it is more prone to slipping. They can cost more to fix if something goes wrong, also.

Vertical Electric Boat Winch: These are more common on most boats. Set up of this kind of winch is often fairly straightforward. They jump less than a horizontally mounted winch will as well. Since maintenance of these is easier, most boaters prefer them.

You need a high quality winch if you want it to last. Some cheaper brands will use plastic components. You can find reviews all over Amazon complaining of these types of winches. They might only last for three or four uses. After that an important gear or pin breaks because it was poorly manufactured. The entire winch is useless at that point.

Ideally you want a completely sealed case. This will protect the circuits and electronic components from moisture and corrosion. The gears should be steel to maintain strength and reliability. Wiring should be tin which can stand up to corrosion long term as well.

The motor for your electric anchor winch is no good if it draws too much power. It’s also not going to be helpful if it’s not powerful enough to do the job.

12 volt motors are standard for most electric winches. These offer suitable power and don’t drain power needlessly. Make sure your anchor matches up with in terms of size with the capacity of the motor. If you try to haul in a larger anchor than the motor can handle, it will burn out quickly.

A marine solar panel is a good idea if you’re concerned about power. Installing one of these can further minimize any power used by your motor. Typically these don’t draw a ton of energy. If you factor in everything running on your boat’s battery, it never hurts to have a buffer. We recommend solar panels for any boat.

The motor needs to be sealed well, especially if you boat in saltwater. The motor will be one of the first things to fail in saltwater if it’s not well made. The corrosion sets in faster than you might think. It can be a real hassle to deal with.

Buying a winch with pre-spooled rope is easy and convenient. If you need to replace rope make sure you look up the kind you need and how to do it. It’s possible to buy a winch that does not come with rope and spool it yourself. We don’t recommend this because why bother? The companies that manufacture winches have already done the work for you. You can count on it being the right length and strength for the job. No need to make more work for yourself if you don’t have to, in our opinion.

When you do need to buy your own rope the standard rule of thumb is 3:1. You need a rope that is three times as long as the water you are in. This ensures you can safely anchor your boat. In general, most electric boat winches come with 100 feet of rope.

Look for an anti-reverse clutch system. This is important to prevent tangles and jams. If you don’t have a system in place, the rope can spool and get tied up.

You probably want to go with a braided anchor rope. Braided rope made from nylon is strong and resists abrasion. Polyester rope is also a popular choice. Whatever kind of rope you get, make sure it’s rated for use in an anchor winch. It needs to be able to handle being wet regularly without getting damaged.

You need to consider what your rope has to endure even when sitting still. If the current starts pushing your boat, the rope is the only thing keeping you steady. It will bear the weight of the entire vessel. Now imagine it’s underwater scraping against a rock or some coral at the same time. Strong rope has to not just pull up a 30 lb anchor. It also has to keep several hundred pounds of boat from floating away by not breaking.

Most rope is rated for about 800lbs. Some clock in at 700 lbs. Be wary of what you buy and what you need it to do.

Obviously one of the big drawbacks to an electric boat winch is cost. Lugging a rope in by hand costs you nothing in terms of dollars. Some electric anchor winches can cost over $500 depending on their size.

Many good quality anchor winches can be picked up for under $200. The cost can still seem steep, over time the value will become apparent. These are great tools to have. They are definitely worth the investment for serious boaters.

Some anchor winches can be picked up for $100 or even less. You should always exercise caution if you see anything this cheap. The expression “you get what you pay for” does apply here. If it’s too cheap, be very cautious. Do your homework and check reviews from multiple sources. If you can’t find reviews at all, that’s a red flag. More often than not you’ll see most reviews are not very high for such an anchor.

If you are looking to save money but still get quality, you have options. Used anchor winches are usually available on sites like craigslist. You may also have luck at your local marina. Make sure you test it out before buying, however.

We recommend all the models we have posted above as being reliably and fairly cost effective. Obviously the ProSport Windlass is a standout in terms of cost. That said, it is recommended for heavier vessels.

Along with cost comes warranties. It’s always good to look into the warranty that is offered with any winch. Because this is a big purchase and affects the overall function of your boat, it’s important. Most companies offer a standard one or two year warranty on their products. Make sure you understand the warranty fully before you commit. Certain things can affect the warranty or even void it outright.

Installation

Modern electric anchor winches are usually not too hard to install. That said, if you buy one from a company overseas it may not come with instructions. That can make it difficult to figure out. When researching the winch you want to buy, check out YouTube ahead of time. See if there are any videos that walk you through the installation process. You may be surprised to see that there are many models featured with step by step walk throughs. This can offer you peace of mind when it comes to getting it installed correctly. Most people have never installed an electric anchor winch before. Don’t feel bad if you’re unsure of the process and need a hand.

Operating Your Electric Boat Anchor Winch

When it comes to operations, there are two standard methods. Remember, a manual winch used to be the only way. That involved a lot of hand cranking and a lot of effort. Electric anchor winches save a lot of time and effort.

Remote Control Anchor Winches: As the name suggests, you can use a remote control to operate these. Just like the TV, you can get it going from anywhere on the boat. This is convenient if you’re busy at the other end of the boat and don’t need to walk all the way to the winch.

Switch Controlled Anchor Winches: These are ones you have to control directly. The switch is hard-wired to the winch. Usually it’s located right next to the winch. Sometimes you can have these hardwired to the control console as well.

Regardless of how a winch is operated, speed is typically static. That means you can’t usually make your anchor winch speed up or slow down. This is a safety precaution more than anything. You don’t want a winch that can pull up an anchor too fast. Usually a winch will drop anchor much faster than it pulls one in, however.

Things to Watch Out for with a Boat Anchor Winch

Make sure you pay attention to the weight capacity. In general, an electric anchor winch will have a capacity between 20lbs and 40lbs. For most boats this is more than sufficient. It’s in your best interests to be cautious here. Just because the winch capacity is 35lbs doesn’t mean a 35lb anchor is ideal. There can be circumstances in which extra stress is put on the winch. In those cases, a 35lb anchor could become problematic. We recommend overshooting your anchor slightly. Use a 40lb winch for a 35lb anchor. A 35lb winch for a 30lb anchor and so on. This is just a safety precaution. You don’t have to do it by any means. It’s also possible your winch will work just fine at capacity. But for added caution, consider tweaking your numbers slightly.

You may think you need a larger winch. This is only true if you have a larger boat. These electrical anchor winches are specifically made for small to medium boats. The kind that could reasonably be used without an anchor winch. Larger boats should already have anchor winches as part of the overall boat design. A 65 foot yacht would not need any of the winches we’ve listed here. It should already be well equipped with a high quality anchor winch of its own.

For these smaller boats, larger capacity winches are rarely necessary. Your anchor is likely not that large so it doesn’t make sense to worry about a larger winch.

A homemade boat anchor winch is something you may see on the water now and then. These are typically manual and not electric. Sometimes they’re rigged from automobile winches. There’s nothing to say this won’t work but do be cautious. If you’re not a handy type person, we don’t recommend risking it. The risk of a jam or break can definitely increase with this.

Watch out for a noisy winch. Ideally this should not make a ton of noise as it rolls in and out. Some are definitely noisier than others, though. If your winch starts making new noises it’s a good sign something is wrong. The winch itself needs to be well lubricated in order to avoid this. If you hear grinding or squealing you definitely have a problem.

A good davit can go a long way to preventing excess noise. The davit is the part that reels the rope in and keeps it straight and smooth as it winds. Without it, the rope can spool. That can cause the entire winch to start making noises as it will be off balanced.

Manual vs Electric Winch

Using an electric winch instead of a manual winch obviously saves time and effort. You’re free to do other things while the winch does the work for you. In addition, your arms and back will likely thank you. Yanking up a rope by hand can be hard for several reasons. The weight can make it a struggle. The friction may also cause serious damage to your hands. You may also end up with a pretty dirty rope. That can cause a mess on you when you pull it in. For those reasons, an electric anchor winch is really the best option out there.

Electric winches also make your boat safer. If you’re spooling rope by hand, it’s going to end up on the deck. This presents a tripping hazard until it is stowed safely. The winch handles that work for you. It’s both a time saver and a space saver in that regard.

The Bottom Line

An electric boat anchor winch is a real time saver on any boat. It gets the dirty work done for you so you can focus on other things. It’s a cool gadget too, and there’s nothing wrong with liking more boat gadgets. Make sure you’re focusing on the right kind of winch for your boat. Never use a freshwater winch in saltwater. Make sure you get it installed correctly and you have the right amount of rope to do the job.

My grandfather first took me fishing when I was too young to actually hold up a rod on my own. As an avid camper, hiker, and nature enthusiast I'm always looking for a new adventure.

Categories : Boats

Ed Wise on December 8, 2021

Are there any electric anchor that have a 200 foot rope or more. I am fishing in fresh water 80 to 100 feet on Lake Simcoe, Canada

RobertHan on February 24, 2022

I installed the MinnKota Deckhand 40 on my Tracker ProGuide V175 with remote switch and 30lb anchor. This gives me an extra option over the position (anchor) lock I have with my trolling motor and a ProNav setup. The ProNav is great but if you really want to hold a position in wind and waves you need a real anchor.

Mark G. on September 5, 2022

Hey Robert, I found your review very helpful. I too have a Tracker 175. The boat came with a trolling motor on the front. I’m concerned about putting too much stufff on the front of the boat. Could you send me a picture of how you mounted your anchor winch? It would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for the post.

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Six-Brand Winch Test: Anderson On Top

Anyone who has been on the bitter end of the sheet when a big genoa starts to fill—whipping and shaking with terrifying violence—knows how important it is to have a winch to convert that flailing energy to forward propulsion.

Winches are to sailboats what the inclined plane was to the Egyptians.

They make the difficult easy, place the impossible within reach.

The equivalent of a dozen or more men needed to heave on a square rigger’s halyard or brace is represented on a modern sailboat by a small, precision-made, cylindrical machine packed with levers and gears.

The refinement of gearing and the development of smooth-operating self-tailers has promoted modern winches from two-man to one-man workhorses with amazing power.

Their only negative is their proclivity to induce fidgety idlers to rotate them mindlessly, just to hear the pawls ratchet. These idlers usually can be broken of this annoying habit by shouting, “Winchclicker! Winchclicker!! Winchclicker!!!” If that fails, they generally are put ashore (if in harbor) or put to death (if on a long sea voyage).

Let’s take a close look at two common sizes of winches. They’re all expensive, because they are well-made precision equipment. They’re also among the most frequently retrofitted items; it’s worth repeating here that an oft-heard saying aboard a lot of sailboats is that the winches they came with are not big enough.

In the two categories selected, these winches are from six manufacturers—Andersen (Denmark), Antal (Italy), Barton (England), Harken (United States), Lewmar (England) and Setamar (Germany).

Small Winches The first category is very small winches. Those represented in this evaluation are among the smallest made by five of the manufacturers. One maker, Antal, makes excellent small winches in several sizes, but could not supply one for testing.

Small, single-speed winches, either with a handle or simply snubbing winches, are invaluable on small boats, for halyards, jib sheets, spinnaker sheets, reefing gear, vangs, etc., and handy, too, for many tasks aboard larger boats. Small winches do not come with the self-tailing mechanism; most manufacturers (Andersen is the exception) start the self-tailers with #16s, which also happens to be the minimum size for two-speed gearing.

Small winches are said to have a gear ratio of 1:1. That means they are direct drive. The only power advantage is that provided by a winch handle. It’s simple leverage, with two sets of pawls (one pair to restrain the drum; the other pair to permit the handle to ratchet freely). One turn of the crank is one turn on the drum. On a small boat, the single-digit power ratio provided by the handle often is ample for sheets. Non-geared winches take in line rapidly. Such winches often are used for halyards on somewhat larger boats. (The power ratio is the length of the handle divided by the radius of the drum.)

Snubbing winches, which do not accept a handle, turn in one direction only. They need only a single set of ratchet pawls. If enough wraps are applied, snubbing winches give the user time to get a new grip or to simply hold the line lightly while friction between the drum and the line takes the load.

They provide little mechanical advantage, but snubbing winches facilitate a good utilization of intermittent muscle power, They also have good line retrieval speed, which always is a consideration when dealing with winches.

Simple and trouble-free, they are of great value when the line load is no more than one’s weight or pulling strength. A halyard can be sweated up very taut by the “heave and hold” method of pulling hard on the line perpendicular to the mast with one hand while grabbing slack on the winch with the other hand.

With either small, direct-drive winches with handles or simple snubbers, the line retrieval rate is an undiluted derivative of the drum diameter, i.e. one revolution of the winch hauls in a length of line equal to the drum’s diameter multiplied by that popular symbolic 16th letter in the Greek alphabet. As a practical matter, line in equals line out.

Because they are simple devices, these small winches were not tested.

The Roaring 40s The second category is the very popular “Number Forties.” Winches are given numbers that correspond to their lowest and most powerful gear ratio. The power ratio of a geared winch is the length of the handle divided by the radius of the drum, multiplied by the gear ratio.

The big winches in this test are Andersens, Antals, Bartons, Harkens, Lewmars and Setamars. We tried to include the Australian-made Murray bottom-action winches, but could not find a U.S. distributor.

The versatile #40s—or their close equivalents—serve as genoa sheet winches on 30- to 35-foot boats, for spinnaker sheets and mainsheets on boats up to 48′, and for halyards, topping lifts, vangs, etc., on much larger sailboats.

The #40s in this collection are all two-speed. Three-speed winches usually are found on racing boats; they come in bigger sizes and get complicated and expensive.

All but one of these winches are self-tailing. In the beginning, several decades ago, self-tailing winches were troublesome…as is usual with most new things. Now perfected, the self-tailing mechanisms represent the only way to go on either racing or cruising boats.

Because winches are such beautifully made gear and rarely get worn out, marine consignment shops across the country are clogged with standard winches—mostly Barients—that once were highly coveted (as well as highly priced). We know of at least one instance in which dozens of perfectly usable standard winches were sold as scrap metal.

There even are a few early-model self-tailers (from various manufacturers) showing up now in the consignment shops; they’re okay for moderate duty but, generally speaking, are not good buys because the self-tailing mechanisms often are not as refined as those on current models. In plain English, that means they slip under heavier loads. Many also have abrasive drum surfaces that devour line.

The Test The Practical Sailor test, designed to establish efficiency ratings for winches, involves mounting each winch on the workbench.

To measure the force exerted, a 15″ torque wrench was used instead of a standard 10″ handle. (The extra length of the torque wrench required adjustments in the calculations.)

Sta-Set X, a modern, rather slippery line, was used, with some of the early tests repeated using Regatta braid, a fuzzy-finish line. The theory that because of varying friction a slippery line might produce different numbers than a fuzzy line proved specious.

At the other end of the bench, a tripled length of 1/2″ shock cord held by two eye straps provided the resistance. Shackled to the shock cord was a carefully calibrated Dillon dynamometer with a handy red max needle. The Sta-Set was attached to the other shackle on the dynamometer and thence to the winch. Four wraps were used. A minimum of three generally is recommended for all but extreme loads. The exception was the Setamar, which requires just one partial wrap of at least 220°.

Pulls of 10 and 20 pounds were for the trimmer easy work. Additional pulls of 30 pounds produced some sweat. A pull of 40 pounds probably would be regarded by an average person as a maximum effort; 50 pounds would be something only a bench-pressing girlfriend would do without making some kind of noise.

The numerous pulls produced figures whose averages indicate how close each winch came to meeting its power ratio.

An additional step in the testing was to determine how easy it is to free the line from the self-tailer and ease the line, as one would do in easing a sheet or halyard when coming off a beat onto a reach or run. In the case of the Setamar, this becomes complicated and is controlled by the handle.

The Results First of all, the fact that the smooth-skinned Sta-Set performed the same as fuzzy Regatta braid indicates that the gripping action of the self-tailing mechanisms on all of these winches probably is no longer at issue. There were difficulties when self-tailers were first introduced; that was before it was recognized that the diameter of the drum and the base diameter of the self-tailer were very critical dimensions.

Click here to view the Winches Value Guide .

There appeared to be no slippage. However, the sharpness of the teeth on the self-tailers’ disks may well affect wear on the line.

Dealing first with the small winches, there are lots of places on small boats where the ultra-simple Barton snubbing winch (about $50) would be useful. The almost equally simple Lewmar #6 ($92 in anodized aluminum) has an efficient mechanism; it also comes (for more money) in chromed or polished bronze. The #6 Harken ($108 for aluminum) turns on sleeved bearings and is the smoothest operating.

For small-boat sheets or bigger-boat halyards and vangs, the small single-speed Setamar ($364) makes eminently good sense. The ability to ease a sheet or halyard by turning the handle in the opposite direction, before freeing the line entirely, constitutes, in our opinion, a valuable safety factor. As was pointed out in an earlier, more detailed review (in the February 15, 1997 issue), the drum-less Setamar winches are very ingenious and may represent the design approach of the future. However, they currently are too expensive.

The Andersen #6 ($102), all-stainless, beautifully made, with Andersen’s ribbed drum and needle bearings, commands categorization as top-of-the-heap and Best Buy.

Summarizing now about the large winches, it’s tough to choose between Andersen and Lewmar. But first, let’s review the others.

The little Barton G23 is not comparable with the big 40s. It was included not only because it’s Barton’s biggest winch, but also because it may point to the future. An “Ugly Ducking”, if there ever was one (see photo), the Barton is made largely of reinforced plastic (including plastic needle bearing), but with a stainless steel axle, pawls and planetary drive gears made of sintered stainless, and a stainless sleeve on the plastic drum. The winch is a powerhouse and, along with being very light and corrosion free, requires almost no service. An occasional flushing with an optional light hit of WD40 is all it needs. It’s a $400 workhorse.

Although handsome winches and very finely made, both the Harken and Antal suffer from what appear to be unnecessarily complicated innards that produce some fall-off in efficiency. They suffer especially in their geared high speed modes and make the initial retrieval of line quite slow compared with the Setamar, Andersen and even the Lewmar.

In addition, the Practical Sailor tests revealed that the Harken drum surface caused abrasion on the Sta-Set line that was easily detected visually after only three or four “pulls.” The Harken and Antal have the most abrasive drums.

The Setamar? It’s so different, it’s difficult to compare with the more conventional #40s. It has a number of strong points. The principal ones are that it retrieves line fast (as fast as the Andersen) and easing of a loaded line can be controlled very safely with the handle (after shifting the top ring). Other benefits are that no wraps are needed; it is small and very lightweight, and line wear is the lowest of all.

The Setamar negatives: It is not a thing of beauty; is complicated to strip and clean (which it requires often); takes some “getting used to,” and it is far too costly.

Both the best and the Best Buy is the Andersen, but there’s almost no gap between it and the Lewmar.

The Lewmar, a first-rate value, is part of a line that was completely redesigned a few years ago to simplify the gearing, reduce the number of parts and make the winch both stronger and easier to service.

The Lewmar ranks first in efficiency, a hair ahead of the Andersen, and is easy to disassemble. If it had a drum as good as the Andersen, it would be a toss-up.

The Andersen has a direct drive high gear that retrieves line fast, a good low gear mechanism that may come second to the bearing-packed Harken, but its real forte is the polished stainless steel drum. The drum, a masterpiece of metal-working, is ribbed, which produces very little abrasion because it moves the coiled line up the drum much better than an abrasive drum. The drum should last virtually forever.

A peculiarity of the Andersen is that when the line is heavily loaded, easing the line can be a bit jerky as the line skips from rib to rib. Although initially disconcerting, it is not even a minor problem.

There’s nothing second-rate about any of these winches. They all work very, very well and last a long time if properly cared for. The choice may involve gear ratios, serviceability or even cosmetics (we still believe a good part of a sailboat’s appeal is aesthetic).

If it’s something different you want, try Setamar. If you don’t need a large winch, don’t overlook the “new-tech” Bartons. But for efficiency, serviceability, construction and appearance, our top choice is the Andersen.

Contacts- Andersen, Scandvik, Inc., 423 4th Pl. SW, Vero Beach, FL 32961-0068; 561/567-2877. Antal, Euro Marine Trading, Inc., 62 Halsey, Newport, RI 02840; 800/222-7712. Barton, Imtra Corp., 30 Samuel Barnet Blvd., New Bedford, MA 02745; 5008/005-7000, www.imtra.com. Harken, 1252 E. Wisconsin, Pewaukee, WI 53072; 262/691-3320; www.harken.com. Lewmar, New Whitfield St., Guilford, CT 06437; 203/458-6200; www.lewmar.com. Setamar, Setamar USA, Box 840, 17 Burnside St., Bristol, RI 02809; 401/253-2244.

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The 80+ Best Deals From Amazon's Big Spring Sale (And Across the Internet) This Week

Amazon’s Big Spring Sale kicked off on Wednesday and lasts through Monday, March 25.

The introduction of yet another Amazon-manufactured sale event sees the online retail giant promising savings on cleaning gear, outdoor essentials, electronics, clothing, and home goods.

But does the sale live up to the hype? We’ve assessed the deals on offer (so far). Most didn’t make the grade, so we dug in to find those that are truly worth the spend.

Below, we’ve rounded up the best deals from Amazon and other retailers offering competing sales, including REI, to find you only the best spring deals on our expert-approved picks.

The best deals on:

Lawn and garden, outdoor, camping, and hiking, luggage and travel, kitchen and appliance, tech, laptops, and tv, spring clothing and shoes, home, furniture and personal care.

Eley 5/8-inch Polyurethane Garden Hose (50 Feet) — Upgrade Pick Eley deal price: $103 ; street price: $122

What we like: Our upgrade garden hose pick. Much lighter, easier to loop, more durable, and resists folding or kinking compared to other options. Large brass fittings at the ends are easy to tighten by hand or wrench. Absolutely hosetastic—the best we’ve ever tested.

Other things to know: Pricey—even when on sale—but if you want a hose that's better in every way and are willing to pay for it, this is the one to get. 10-year warranty. Deal price is for the 50-foot length.

Read our review of the best garden hose and hose reel .

Govee Outdoor String Lights (96 Feet) — Another Good Option Amazon deal price: $65 with clipped on-page coupon ; street price: $90

What we like: Another good string light in our guide to the best smart outdoor lighting. Affordably priced and available in a 48-foot set and a 96-foot set. They provide far more special-effects options than our string light pick.

Other things to know: Very overwhelming app. The strands have fewer bulbs per foot than our string-lights pick, and they don’t feel as sturdy. Frosted bulbs. Deal is for the 96-foot length; be sure to clip the on-page coupon.

Read our review of the best smart outdoor lighting .

Ego LM2135SP Power+ 21″ Select Cut Lawn Mower with extra battery — Runner-Up Lowe’s deal price: $600 ; street price: $950

What we like: Our runner-up pick for the best lawn mower, bundled with an extra Ego battery. Battery-powered self-propelled mower can run for about an hour on a single battery charge. No need for gas, oil checks, or fuel storage, and no noxious emissions. Considerably quieter than gas mowers.

Other things to know: First deal we’ve seen since Black Friday. Minimal maintenance compared with gas models. A little less powerful and shorter run time than our top pick, but additional battery easily makes up for primary battery’s capacity. Extra Ego BA2800T battery has 56-volt, 5 Ah, 280 Wh capacity, usually between $200 and $300 when purchased separately.

Read our review of the best lawn mower .

Ego ST1511T Power+ 15″ Powerload String Trimmer — Top Pick Amazon deal price: $153 ; street price: $220

What we like: Our top pick for the best string trimmer. Outperformed the other brands’ trimmers in run time and power. Telescoping shaft and handle are easy to adjust and make the tool comfortable to use.

Other things to know: New low. The charger can deliver a full battery in about 40 minutes.

Read our review of the best string trimmers .

Yeti Tundra Haul Hard Cooler — Our Pick Moosejaw deal price: $340 with single-use discount and free Dick's ScoreCard account ; street price: $425

What we like: Our pick for the best cooler with wheels. Easy to haul across long distances. Durable wheels. Thick-gauge welded aluminum handle won't strain or bend. Feels similar to wheeling around high-end luggage.

Other things to know: No internal divider. Contents may shuffle a bit when tipped at an angle. Available in six colors. You have to sign in with your free Dick's ScoreCard account to get the discount on a single full-price item from Moosejaw. Shipping is free.

Read our review of the best coolers .

Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Water Bottle (16 Ounces) — Our Pick Amazon deal price: $17 in select colors ; street price: $25

What we like: A wider-mouth version of our simple stainless steel water bottle pick. Insulated double-walled stainless steel kept drinks hot for six hours or cold for a full day in our tests. Pleasant to sip from, simple to carry, and completely leakproof. Wide mouth makes it easy to add ice.

Other things to know: No silicone boot like our other picks. Includes detachable BPA-free Flex Sip lid. Not dishwasher-safe. Limited lifetime warranty. On sale in select colors in 16-ounce size. Not the lowest price we've seen, but still a good value.

Read our review of the best water bottles .

Leatherman Free P2 Multi-Tool — Also Great Moosejaw deal price: $104 with single-use discount and free Dick's ScoreCard account ; street price: $130

What we like: Our pick for the best full-sized multi-tool. Wider tool selection than our top pick, we found the added scissors and a package opener routinely useful day to day. With its handles closed, all of the tools can be accessed with a single hand. Slender, streamlined design. Included pocket clip.

Other things to know: Bit heavier than top pick. Combo blade with serrations (which we don't prefer). You have to sign in with your free Dick's ScoreCard account to get the discount on a single full-price item from Moosejaw. Shipping is free.

Read our review of the best multi-tool .

Supergoop Play Everyday Lotion SPF 50 (18 Ounces) — Our Pick Supergoop deal price: $54 with code WC24 ; street price: $68

What we like: One of our chemical sunscreen picks that's available in bulk. Good for face and body. Rubs in easily and is nearly transparent once applied. Light, pleasant scent. SPF 50 rating offers a high level of protection. User-friendly pump bottle.

Other things to know: None of Wirecutter’s testers experienced a white cast, but some reported that it left them feeling greasy. The 18-ounce jug is the most affordable size on a per-ounce basis. Use code WC24 .

Read our ode to Supergoop sunscreen .

The North Face Wawona 6 Tent (2023) — Upgrade Pick REI deal price: $350 in select colors ; street price: $500

What we like: Our upgrade pick camping tent. Dome-style with nearly vertical walls, high ceilings, and a single mudroom-sized vestibule. Straightforward to pitch, and made with sturdy, light materials.

Other things to know: Expensive, but you get value for your money. The Wawona 6’s footprint, or protective groundsheet, is sold separately. We recommend setting up with two people, but one person can manage in about 15 minutes. Limited lifetime warranty. Available in orange/tan.

Read our review of the best camping tents .

NiteRider Swift 300 Bike Light — Budget Pick REI deal price: $24 with single-use code MEMBER24, REI membership required ; street price: $30

What we like: Our headlight budget pick for the best commuter bike light is small and sturdy, with a swiveling strap and decent side visibility. Can emit 300 lumens for up to two hours and flash for 12. Adjusts to fit most sizes and shapes of handlebars.

Other things to know: Not suited to longer or darker routes. Lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects, one-year warranty on its rechargeable battery cells. Already affordable but rarely sees discounts. On sale for REI members with single-use promo code MEMBER24.

Read our review of the best commuter bike lights .

Blundstone Original 500 Series Boot — Staff Favorite REI deal price: $168 with single-use code MEMBER24, REI membership required ; street price: $210

What we like: A casual leather boot loved by Wirecutter staff and many others around the world. Pull-on, ankle-high, with an elastic panel. Comfortable, durable rubber sole. Uppers made of extra-thick leather. Ergonomically engineered to reduce fatigue. Can last for years with daily wear.

Other things to know: Exceptionally light for a pair of boots, about 14 ounces per pair. Unisex. Best price and size availability is for the stout brown color. On sale for REI members with single-use promo code MEMBER24.

Read our ode to the Blundstone boots .

Panel Sound USAPA Approved Fiberglass Pickleball Paddles — Staff Favorite Amazon deal price: $20 in select colors ; street price: $35

What we like: A staff-favorite pickleball paddle set. Lightweight and comfortable to hold. Grippy handles and rubbery faces absorb some of the ball’s velocity. Good for beginners.

Other things to know: Set includes two paddles, four indoor balls, a carrying case, and two cooling towels. Deal is for the red paddle set.

Read our review of the best pickleball equipment for playing at home .

Vasque Breeze Waterproof Hiking Boot (Men’s Sizes) — Also Great REI deal price: $96 with single-use code MEMBER24, REI membership required ; street price: $140

What we like: Our more flexible hiking boot pick. Offers all the comfort of a trail-running shoe with the ankle support of a hiking boot. Lighter weight (just over 2 pounds per pair) is good for longer hikes. Substantial enough to support you while carrying a heavy pack.

Other things to know: Runs narrow—we recommend ordering at least a half-size up from your street-shoe size. Takes longer to break (about 10 miles) in than our top pick. On sale in nutria color for REI members with single-use promo code  MEMBER24 .

Read our review of the best hiking boots .

Snow Peak Ti-Single 600 Cup With Hotlips — Staff Favorite REI deal price: $34 with single-use code MEMBER24, REI membership required ; street price: $43

What we like: A larger version of an ultralight titanium mug we like for campfire cooking and making coffee on the go. Durable, smooth titanium design. Roomy flip-out handle. Attach to a carabiner for external storage. Food-grade silicone HotLips help mitigate potential scorching.

Other things to know: Cup may be too hot to drink from on its own at first pour. Can also be used as a single-serving pot for boiling water. Hotlips only fit on Snow Peaks mugs. Use single-use coupon code MEMBER24 . REI membership required.

Read our review of our favorite campfire cooking tips tricks and gear .

Sawyer Products Permethrin Fabric Treatment (24 Ounces) — Also Great Amazon deal price: $14 ; street price: $18

What we like: Our bug repellent pick for clothing and gear (but not your skin). As effective as similar formulas at repelling ticks and mosquitoes, and its trigger spray is easier to control and apply evenly. Each application provides about six washings (or six weeks, whichever comes first) of protection.

Other things to know: The 24-ounce bottle should be enough to treat four outfits (shirt, pants, socks). The set of two 24-ounce bottles offers a slightly better price per ounce if you need to stock up.

Read our review of the best bug repellents .

Monos Hybrid Trunk — Also Great Monos deal price: $410 with code ANOTHERYEAR ; street price: $455

What we like: Our pick for the best trunk for checking. Made of a robust polycarbonate with aluminum corner guards and an aluminum frame around the center seam that reinforces the body of the luggage. Has two TSA locks, which close with a satisfying latch.

Other things to know: Due to the design, some travelers consider trunks to be easier to pack and to maneuver. Does away with the standard zipper closure. Doesn’t have a ton of built-in organization. Lifetime warranty. Use code ANOTHERYEAR . Sold out in silver, but available in champagne and black colors.

Read our review of the best suitcases for checking .

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Carry-On Travel Backpack — Our Pick REI deal price: $160 with single-use code MEMBER24, REI membership required ; street price: $200 Moosejaw deal price: $160 with single-use discount and free Dick's ScoreCard account ; street price: $200

What we like: Our pick for the best small carry-on travel backpack for most situations. Easy-to-pack clamshell design and highly adjustable straps. Has handles on all four sides. Protected by a full lifetime warranty and has the build quality to back that up. Made with 1,680-denier ballistic nylon and includes a rain fly.

Other things to know: Minimal amount of administrative organization. We’d love to see a permanent all-nylon alternative to the TPU-lined front panel, which can flake over time. On sale for REI members with single-use promo code MEMBER24 (only the color river remains in stock at REI) or for the public at Moosejaw with a single-use promo and free Dick's ScoreCard account (river color only).

Read our review of the best carry-on travel backpacks .

Apple AirTag Bluetooth Tracker — Our Pick Amazon deal price: $24 ; street price: $29

What we like: Our pick for the best Bluetooth tracker for iOS users leverages Apple’s huge network of devices to find lost goods. Impressively accurate. Replaceable coin battery. If you lose an AirTag (or an item containing or attached to one), you can use the Find My app to see its location or ask Siri to trigger an audible alert.

Other things to know: Doesn’t have any way to ring your phone. No built-in method of attaching to anything. Solid deal for an individual tracker but sales for sets of four typically offer a better price per tracker.

Read our review of the best Bluetooth tracker .

Bellroy Tokyo Tote Second Edition — Our Pick Amazon deal price: $89 in select colors ; street price: $129

What we like: Our pick for a durable, water-repellent polyester laptop tote bag. Tough yet polished. Transitions perfectly from the coffee shop to the conference room. Thoughtfully designed, with features like internal popout bottle pockets and leakproof zippers.

Other things to know: Fabric shell is abrasive and may make some sweaters and blouses pill. The weave also attracts pet hair like a magnet. Available in bronze and ranger green. Lowest price we've seen so far.

Read our review of the best laptop tote bags .

Cuisinart Frozen Yogurt-Ice Cream & Sorbet Maker (ICE-21) — Top Pick Amazon deal price: $56 ; street price: $60

What we like: Our top ice cream maker pick. Made some of the smoothest and most delicious ice cream in our tests. More affordable than a compressor model. Churns ice cream faster than the competition.

Other things to know: Bowl insert must be pre-frozen overnight, which requires planning. Extra freezer bowls, required to make multiple batches in a row, sold separately.

Read our review of the best ice cream maker .

OXO Easy-Clean Compost Bin (1.75 Gallon) — Pick Variant Bloomingdale's deal price: $26 ; street price: $32

What we like: A larger version of our simple, compact compost bin pick. A lightweight, no-nonsense plastic pail. Easy to clean. Hinged handle for carrying.

Other things to know: Attached lid isn't airtight. Worked well in our freezer (to go a couple weeks between compost drop-offs). Price reflects in cart.

Read our review of the best kitchen compost bins we love .

OXO Good Grips Glass 9" Pie Plate with Lid — Top Pick Bloomingdale's deal price: $12 ; street price: $15

What we like: Our top pick for the best pie plate. Simple and sturdy. Holds more filling than the competition. Handy lid allows for easier storage and transport. Minimalist design.

Other things to know: Made of borosilicate glass. Two inches deep. A little too big for store-bought crust. Price reflects in cart; free shipping.

Read our review of the best pie plate .

Thermos Funtainer Food Jar (10 Ounces, 2-Pack) — Also Great Amazon deal price: $15 for a 2-pack ; street price: $22

What we like: A two-pack of our kids pick for best food thermos. Durable and easy for small hands to open. Never leaked in our tests, and the lid never cracked during drop tests.

Other things to know: 10-ounce container is best for kids (or for a small adult lunch). Doesn't retain heat for as long as our top pick (130 °F after 6 hours, vs 144 °F for our top pick). Best suited for keeping foods hot, not great for keeping foods cold. Deal price is for a 2-pack.

Read our review of the best food thermos .

Zojirushi NS-TSC10 Rice Cooker (5.5 Cups) — Another Good Option Amazon deal price: $150 ; street price: $180

What we like: Another good rice cooker that costs less than our top pick and performs almost as well. Makes superb white, long-grain, and sticky rice. Has a solid quick-cook setting. $65 cheaper than the current price of our top pick in the same size.

Other things to know: Former pick top pick (we prefer the Neuro Fuzzy’s pot because it has handles and a more advanced fuzzy-logic chip that can turn an atrociously mis-measured batch of rice into something edible). For big families and voracious eaters, the 10-cup version of this cooker on sale for $165.

Read our review of the best rice cookers .

YouCopia StoraLid Lid Organizer (Large) — Staff Favorite Amazon deal price: $16 ; street price: $20

What we like: A staff-favorite lid organizer we like for keeping things tidy in the cabinet. Keeps food-storage container lids organized and easily accessible with minimal human effort. Adjustable tabbed dividers for separating lid sizes.

Other things to know: Only as useful as your willingness to use it and organize. Needs large empty space to fit into a cabinet. Deal for the large size, recurring sale price.

Read our ode to the YouCopia StoraLid Lid Organizer .

YouCopia Storemore Expandable Adjustable Pan and Lid Rack — Our Pick Amazon deal price: $18 ; street price: $30

What we like: A variant of our adjustable bakeware rack pick. We recommend the bakeware rack in several of our articles on kitchen organization; this pan-and-lid rack has a similar design but extends up to 22 inches, and the wire dividers are shaped to account for lid handles. Easy way to organize a variety of kitchen items.

Other things to know: Comes with 10 adjustable dividers. At 13 inches wide without expanding, it’s not as compact as our recommended bakeware rack. Additional and replacement dividers are sold separately by the merchant.

Read our review of the best small kitchen ideas to create more space .

Simple Modern Trek Tumbler (40 Ounce) — Staff Favorite Amazon deal price: $24 in select colors ; street price: $30

What we like: Our favorite high-quality, budget-friendly Stanley tumbler dupe. Performed just as well as its costlier competitors. Kept ice frozen for over 24 hours and stopping leaks with its screw-top lid. Available in over 20 colors and patterns, more than the competition offers.

Other things to know: Most Trek tumblers are dishwasher-safe, though some of the patterned options are hand-wash-only to preserve their design. On sale in a few multi-color options.

Read our review of the best Stanley dupes .

Atlas Coffee Club 2-Bag Subscription — Gift Pick Atlas Coffee Club deal price: $14 with code WCMARCH50, new subscribers only ; street price: $28

What we like: A coffee subscription service we recommend in multiple gift guides. Atlas Coffee Club delivers satisfying coffee at a low price, with plenty of customization, and you always have something new to try. Sources beans from countries all over the world. Each bag of coffee includes a postcard with fun facts about the country’s coffee industry.

Other things to know: The subscription is highly customizable. New subscribers can use code WCMARCH50 for 50% off their first two-bag subscription. Matches the best previous pricing we've posted.

Read our review of the best gifts for coffee lovers .

Hamilton Beach Temp Tracker 6 Quart Slow Cooker — Also Great Costco deal price: $50 shipped, Costco membership required ; street price: $70

What we like: Our slow cooker pick for longer cook times. Similar to our top pick but offers more precise temperature control. 24-hour timer instead of 14 hours. More built-in slots for a probe thermometer. Settings include high, medium, low, and warm.

Other things to know: Ran a little hotter than our top pick in our tests, and we’re not convinced that everyone needs the extras. Costco membership required. Price includes shipping.

Read our review of the best slow cooker .

Cuisinart CPT-122 2-Slice Compact Plastic Toaster — Top Pick Amazon deal price: $24 in select colors ; street price: $30

What we like: Our longtime top pick for the best two-slot toaster. Produced the most evenly browned bread in our testing. Wide range of settings and easy-to-use controls. Wide slots for thick-cut bagels.

Other things to know: Three-year warranty. Available in white. Plastic body and levers don’t look quite as nice as a metal finish. Heating-element wires of modern toasters are subject to corrosion over time.

Read our review of the best toaster .

Gracula Garlic Crusher — Gift Pick Amazon deal price: $15 ; street price: $25

What we like: A Dracula-inspired kitchen gadget recommended in multiple Wirecutter gift guides. Any cooking-inclined classic-horror fan, kid, or year-round Halloween celebrant would “vant” this as a gift. Plop a few cloves into the base (his cape), pop on the top (his head), and twist at the neck to mince.

Other things to know: Make sure to remove chopped garlic quickly—vampires can’t tolerate garlic for long (plus, it’s a nightmare to clean when dried).

Read our review of the best Valentine’s Day gifts under $25 .

Philips GoZero Sparkling Water Maker — Budget Pick Amazon deal price: $54 ; street price: $64

What we like: Our budget soda maker pick has a sleek and attractive no-frills look. Makes good-tasting seltzer with lively bubbles. Surprisingly good quality for the price.

Other things to know: Assembly can be a pain. CO 2 cylinder is sold separately for around $30. If you have empty cylinders, you can exchange them for a discount.

Read our review of the best soda maker .

OXO Brew 8-Cup Coffee Maker — Another Good Option Amazon deal price: $140 ; street price: $180

What we like: A speedy drip coffee maker we like that can make pour-over-quality single servings in addition to full pots. Small footprint and simple design. Brews coffee with well-rounded flavor. Can brew directly into the thermal carafe or a mug.

Other things to know: Lacks auto-brew function, clock, and timer.

Read our review of the best drip coffee maker .

Tovolo Dino Popsicle Molds (Set of 4) — Also Great Amazon deal price: $10 ; street price: $16

What we like: A small-ish dinosaur-shaped popsicle mold we love for kids (or dino-loving adults). Slightly smaller size and cute shape are perfect for fun frozen treats and experimenting with new flavors. Dishwasher-safe, so they're super easy to clean.

Other things to know: A little fussy to fill. Silicone mold is easy to peel off frozen pops—doesn't require pre-soaking or rinsing in warm water.

Read our review of the best popsicle molds .

Cuisinart CPT-142 4-Slice Compact Plastic Toaster — Top Pick Bloomingdale's deal price: $40 in cart ; street price: $50

What we like: Our longtime top pick for the best four-slot toaster. Consistently produces four slices of perfectly golden brown toast. Offers a wide range of settings and easy-to-use controls. Housing remains cool to the touch, even after multiple batches.

Other things to know: Heating element wires of modern toasters are subject to corrosion over time. Only available in white. Price reflects in cart.

Roborock Q5+ Robot Vacuum — Our Pick Roborock deal price: $370 with code ROBOROCKS ; street price: $550

What we like: Our self-emptying robot vacuum pick. Better battery life, app navigation, mapping, and voice command response to Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant than other bots. Large bin. Excels at cleaning hard floors and low- to medium-pile carpets.

Other things to know: Comes with a charging station that empties debris into a disposable bag. Like nearly all bots we tested, it struggles with debris near thresholds and baseboards. A new low price, but not by much. Use coupon code ROBOROCKS .

Read our review of the best robot vacuums .

Anker Soundcore Space A40 Earbuds — Top Pick Amazon deal price: $50 ; street price: $80

What we like: Our top pick for best wireless Bluetooth earbuds. Solid sound quality, great battery life, and active noise cancellation. Each earbud can be used independently. Dual-device connectivity. Should fit most ears comfortably.

Other things to know: Does not support voice-activated assistants like Alexa and Siri. IPX4 water-resistance. 18-month warranty. Limited touch controls. This deal lacks the $5 gift card we typically see bundled with these earbuds.

Read our review of the best wireless Bluetooth earbuds .

Sony PlayStation 5 Slim Digital Edition + Marvel's Spider-Man 2 Bundle (No Disc Drive) — Also Great Target deal price: $400 ; street price: $450 Best Buy deal price: $400 ; street price: $450

What we like: The new "Slim" version of our top PlayStation game console pick without a disc drive, plus the new Spider-Man 2 2 game we loved in our recent review . Slightly narrower and shorter than the OG. 1 TB storage (up from 825 GB).

Other things to know: The Digital Edition doesn’t include a disc drive, so you can’t watch Blu-rays or take advantage of new or used games, or old PS4 discs. Still some backwards compatibility issues with PS4 games and exclusives. No Dolby Vision or or DTS:X support. Despite being called the "Slim," it's still quite large and bulky. Marvel's Spider-Man 2 digital code included.

Read our review of the best game consoles .

Fujifilm Instax Mini Link 2 Instant Photo Printer — Top Pick Best Buy deal price: $90 ; street price: $100 Target deal price: $90 ; street price: $100

What we like: Our top pick for best instant photo printer. Ultra-portable and compact. Quickly delivers vibrant, credit-card-sized film-like prints. Easy to set up and use with an intuitive app.

Other things to know: Printer body feels fragile. Prints take four to six minutes to fully develop and may lack fine detail and clarity. Uses the same film packs as Fujifilm’s Instax cameras. Recurring deal price, but has yet to drop lower. Available in black, white, and pink.

Read our review of the best instant photo printer .

Sonos Move Speaker (First Gen) — Our Pick Costco deal price: $280, Costco membership required ; street price: $400

What we like: Our pick for a portable smart speaker for your outdoor space. High-quality and wireless. Sounds good. All the benefits of the Sonos system. Supports Airplay 2, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant. IP56-rated water resistance. Solid 10-hour battery life.

Other things to know: Audio is notably directional, with a dead spot directly behind it. The charging base is not waterproof. No stereo separation. Sonos released the second generation model last year. Available in black for Costco members.

Read our review of the best smart devices for making the most of your backyard and garden .

Nebula Mars 3 Air Portable Mini Projector — Top Pick Amazon deal price: $450 with clipped on-page coupon ; street price: $600

What we like: Our top pick for the best portable mini projector. 1080p projector that offers good image brightness and contrast with above-average sound and easy setup. Runs off an internal battery for true portability (up to 3.5 hours of runtime in our tests). Uses the Google TV streaming platform, which is our favorite.

Other things to know: Main downsides include the lack of a USB-C port and the awkwardly designed underside, which limits the tripods and mounts it can attach to. Clip the on-page coupon to get the deal.

Read our review of the best portable mini projector .

Apple MacBook Air (M1, 2020, 8 GB RAM, 256 GB SSD) — Budget Pick (For Now) Walmart deal price: $700 in select colors ; street price: $750

What we like: Our soon-to-be-replaced budget pick from our guide to the best MacBooks. Still enough memory and storage for most day-to-day work. Approximately 14-hour battery life. Lightweight with solid construction, a comfortable keyboard, and industry-leading customer support. M1 processor still good enough for everyday tasks, non-power users.

Other things to know: M3 processor is finally out and the M1 is starting to show its age after three years. Still a worthwhile everyday laptop, but we will likely see better deals in the future as M3 adoption becomes more widespread. Comes with 8 GB RAM, 256 GB SSD, 13.3-inch Retina display, one 3.5mm jack, and two Thunderbolt 3 ports. Available in select finishes. $30 below the previous lowest price.

Read our review of the best MacBooks .

Vantrue N4 Dash Cam — Top Pick Vantrue deal price: $175 with code WIREVAN4 ; street price: $220

What we like: Our top pick for best dash cam. Crisp, super-high-resolution footage day and night. Front-facing, interior, and rear-facing cameras. 24-hour parked-car monitoring. Compact and relatively unobtrusive. Includes 12-volt car charger.

Other things to know: Performance suffers in temperatures below 14 degrees Fahrenheit. Lacks app connectivity to remotely view and download video. Use code WIREVAN4 for deal from Vantrue. Matches low.

Read our review of the best dash cam .

Google Pixel 8 (128 GB, Unlocked) — Top Pick Amazon deal price: $500 ; street price: $620

What we like: Our top pick for the best Android smartphone offers the best version of Android with guaranteed security updates through fall 2030. Has one of the best smartphone cameras we’ve tested. Excellent build quality. Crisp 6.2-inch OLED display and solid wrap-around aluminum frame.

Other things to know: More expensive than previous models. Videos can often look a little grainy but have good color reproduction. Deal is for an unlocked phone with 128 GB of internal storage.

Read our review of the best Android phones .

Soundcore Space One Noise-Cancelling Headphones — Budget Pick Amazon deal price: $80 ; street price: $100

What we like: Our budget pick for the best over-ear noise-cancelling headphones offer impressive noise cancellation and good sound for less than $100. Comfortable and lightweight. 40-hour battery life with ANC on. Offers dual-device connectivity, hear-through mode, and quick-charge feature.

Other things to know: The three noise-reducing microphones can make voices sound compressed and somewhat distant to callers. Sound is customizable via the Soundcore app.

Read our review of the best noise-cancelling headphones .

Garmin Forerunner 255S GPS Running Watch — Runner-Up Amazon deal price: $250 ; street price: $350

What we like: One of our runner-up picks for the best GPS running watch. One of the most feature-packed, top-performing models we’ve tested. Accurate distance and route tracking. Solid heart-rate monitoring. Multiband GPS.

Other things to know: Decent battery life (about 14 days), but much shorter than that of our top pick. No touchscreen. Not quite as accurate at tracking road runs as our top pick. One-year warranty.

Read our review of the best GPS running watches .

Garmin Forerunner 255S Music GPS Running Watch — Runner-Up Amazon deal price: $300 ; street price: $380

What we like: Our runner-up pick for the best GPS running watch if listening to music is important for your workouts. Still one of the most feature-packed, top-performing GPS running watches we’ve tested. Includes music streaming and storage capabilities.

Other things to know: Accurate distance and route tracking. Solid heart-rate monitoring. Multiband GPS. Decent battery life, about 14 days. Lacks touchscreen. Much shorter battery life than our top pick. In tracking road runs, it’s not quite as accurate as our top pick. One-year warranty.

Soundcore Motion 300 Bluetooth Speaker — Runner-Up Amazon deal price: $64 ; street price: $80

What we like: Our runner-up pick for the best portable Bluetooth speaker. Good sound quality comparable to that of our top pick but with an emphasis on instruments over vocals. Offers IPX7 waterproofing and had 12 hours of battery life during our tests. USB-C charging.

Other things to know: Larger than our top pick but slimmer. Not as ruggedly built as our top pick. Bluetooth range is shorter than we’d like (60 feet during tests), which is adequate but not impressive these days.

Read our review of the best portable Bluetooth speaker .

Cricut Explore 3 Electronic Cutting Machine — Top Pick Amazon deal price: $228 ; street price: $300

What we like: Our top for the best electronic cutting machine. Intuitive and easy-to-use software is great for beginners. Superior selection of images and ready-to-make projects.

Other things to know: Faster than other cutting machines but significantly louder. Doesn’t come with a cutting mat and can only cut materials that are 6 inches or longer. Only the second deal we’ve posted on the Explore 3 so far. After another drop, now down to the lowest price we've seen to date.

Read our review of the best electronic cutting machines .

Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5 Smartwatch — Our Pick Amazon deal price: $228 ; street price: $350

What we like: Our pick for a long-lasting Android smartwatch. Compact, comfortable design. Runs nearly seven days between recharges. Low-power mode maintains basic functionality for weeks. Dual-layer display. Fast, powerful Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1 processor.

Other things to know: Uses an older version of Wear OS. Phone app is clunky. Amazon Alexa is the only voice-assistant option.

Read our review of the best smartwatch for Android phones .

Brother P-Touch Cube Label Maker — Budget Pick Amazon deal price: $45 ; street price: $60

What we like: Our budget pick for the best label maker. Easy to use. Good for occasional label making. Produces the same high-quality labels and uses the same great design suite as our top pick.

Other things to know: A stripped-down version of our top pick. Lacks automatic cutter and built-in rechargeable battery. Recurring deal price, but rarely drops lower.

Read our review of the best label makers .

Aura Carver Mat Digital Photo Frame — Pick Variant Amazon deal price: $143 in select colors ; street price: $180

What we like: A variant of our top digital photo frame pick. Offers easy setup, vivid display, pleasing design, and near-zero pillarboxing. Loading photos and videos remotely is a breeze. Features two frame layers that give the look of a mat picture frame.

Other things to know: The 16:10 aspect ratio isn’t our preferred 4:3. Free Aura app works with iOS and Android phones. Available in black or clay color with white mat.

Read our review of the best digital photo frame .

Smartish Gripmunk with MagSafe for iPhone 15 Case — Our Pick Amazon deal price: $16 in select colors ; street price: $20

What we like: Our pick for the best basic phone case for the iPhone 15. A one-piece case made of soft, rubber-like plastic (TPU, or thermoplastic polyurethane), and provides more than adequate coverage and protection. Easy to install but won't stretch out. Affordable but doesn’t feel cheap.

Other things to know: Has been our pick for the best basic iPhone case for years now and continues to maintain that spot, but is a plain case with not much going on. Select colors on sale. The iPhone 15 Plus, Pro, and Pro Max versions are also on sale in a few colors.

Read our review of the best iPhone cases .

A.L.C. Renzo Pleated Midi Dress — Our Pick Bloomingdale's deal price: $446 ; street price: $595

What we like: Our pick for the ultimate little black cocktail dress. Delicate pleats, a high neck, and exposed shoulders make this a refined choice for an evening out. Breathable polyester felt softer and more luxurious than many silk dresses we tested.

Other things to know: The priciest dress we recommend, but worth the investment. Designed to hit midcalf, but may hit closer to ankle level if under 5-foot-5. Sold in sizes 00 to 14.

Read our review of the best little black dresses .

Sungait Vintage Round Sunglasses (Polarized Lenses, 2-Pack) — Our Pick Amazon deal price: $15 for a 2-pack select colors with clipped on-page coupon ; street price: $18

What we like: Our cheap round sunglasses pick. Also recommended in gift guides and outdoor guides. Comfortable and sturdy. Complements a variety of face shapes. Keyhole nose bridge. Mini screwdriver provided with purchase. Logo-free and unisex.

Other things to know: Lifetime warranty (rare at this price). Some Sungait pairs sold on Amazon don't have polarized lenses, double-check before buying. Deal is for a 2-pack in select frame colors. Clip on-page coupon to get deal for some colors.

Read our review of the best cheap sunglasses .

Paige Cindy Jeans — Top Pick Paige deal price: $164 with code PAIGEFAMILY24 ; street price: $219

What we like: Our decadently soft and stretchy women's jeans pick. Straight-leg, high-rise style, fitted through the waist and hips. Body-conscious yet totally lounge-able. Testers of different sizes and shapes found these jeans flattering and wildly comfortable.

Other things to know: Stretchier denim tends to (you guessed it) stretch out over time. 28-inch inseam may be too short for some. Destroyed hem isn't for everyone. Run slightly large; we recommend sizing down if between sizes. Use code PAIGEFAMILY2024 . Doesn't quite compare to deals we saw over Black Friday, but still a good value.

Read our review of the best women's jeans .

Nike Blazer Mid '77 Vintage Sneakers (Men's) — Staff Favorite Nike deal price: $72 in select colors with code SPRING, free Nike membership required ; street price: $105

What we like: A staff favorite alternative to Nike Air Force 1s. Versatile mid-height sneakers with a vintage feel. Sleek, leather upper with suede details. Solid rubber sole provides strong foot support and traction.

Other things to know: Free Nike membership required to use coupon code SPRING and for free shipping. Several colors are on sale, but the tan option offers a wide range of sizes for a neutral color.

Read our ode to the Nike Blazer Mid '77 Vintage Sneakers .

Universal Standard Next-to-Naked Legging — Our Pick Universal Standard deal price: $15 for new customers with code WIRECUTTER (limit 1 per customer) ; street price: $96

What we like: Our lightweight leggings pick for layering (or to replace your everyday pants). Soft, stretchy, and comfortable enough to wear all day. Thinner than most pairs we tried. Waistband didn’t pinch and stayed put for all of our testers. Good for lounging about or even working out.

Other things to know: Formerly known as the Core Legging. Sizing conversions don’t follow standard conventions—please refer to on-page chart to ensure you get the correct size. Use code WIRECUTTER (new customers only, one use per customer). Extremely limited sizes, colors, and styles remaining.

Read our review of the best leggings .

Crocs Dylan Clog — Gift Pick Amazon deal price: $33 in select colors ; street price: $55

What we like: A more sophisticated pair of Crocs we recommend in several of our gift guides. Belies the brand's ugly reputation. Textured to look like full-grain leather. Clean profile with a notably unperforated toe box.

Other things to know: Easy to wash thanks to proprietary resin construction. On sale in select colors in women's and men's sizes. New low.

Read our review of the best gifts for boyfriends (that are great for anyone) .

Big Claw Clips (8-Pack) — Our Pick Amazon deal price: $7 for an 8-pack in select colors ; street price: $10

What we like: A staff-favorite claw clip for wrangling curly and unruly hair. Stays put even during sleep. Extremely durable and sturdy.

Other things to know: Includes eight clips in multiple colors and two styles. Clips are about 4 inches long and open to 3.54 inches. Made from soft matte plastic.

Read our review of our favorite hair ties, scrunchies, bows, and clips .

Bonobos Soft Everyday Tee (pack of two) — Our Pick Bonobos deal price: $50 when you add two to cart ; street price: $70

What we like: Our boxier, more relaxed white T-shirt pick. Extremely soft with some stretch and sturdily constructed. Especially loved by our plus-size testers for quality, fit, and comfort. 100% cotton.

Other things to know: Generous fit may not work for people with smaller frames. Available in a variety of colors and sizes. Choose between crew neck or V-neck and slim or standard cut. Add two to your cart to get the deal price.

Read our review of the best men’s white T-shirts .

What we like: A casual leather boot loved by Wirecutter staff and many others around the world. Pull-on, ankle-high, with an elastic panel. Comfortable, durable rubber sole. Uppers made of extra-thick leather. Ergonomically engineered to reduce fatigue. They can last for years with daily wear.

Etsfmoa Unisex Beanie with Light — Gift Pick Amazon deal price: $13 in select colors ; street price: $15

What we like: A combination beanie and headlamp recommended in multiple Wirecutter gift guides. A bright, rechargeable light embedded in a soft, warm hat. Light charges in about two hours via USB port and has three brightness settings. Beanie comes in 24 different colors and patterns.

Other things to know: Great for walking the dog after dark or staying hands-free during house projects (also makes a good Father’s Day gift). The black and gray hats, the typical colors we see on sale, are both down to $13.

Read our review of the best gifts under $25 .

Idegg No Show Socks (Unisex, Six Pairs) — Our Pick Amazon deal price: $12 for a 6-pack in select colors and sizes ; street price: $15

What we like: Our thin and inexpensive no-show socks pick. Made from a lightweight and breathable cotton blend. Terrific value, especially when on sale. Great for wearing with snug-fitting shoes. Won’t slip or bunch.

Other things to know: Thin material doesn’t provide much padding or support. Not as soft and smooth as our other no-show sock picks. Deal is for a medium six-pack combination of black, gray, and whites (add $1 for large).

Read our review of the best no-show socks .

Crest 3D Whitestrips Professional Effects Kit (22 Treatments) — Staff Favorite Amazon deal price: $30 ; street price: $46

What we like: An at-home teeth-whitening solution that is a staff favorite. Low-tech, effective, and very affordable. No dentist visits required. Comes with 10 days' worth of Professional Effects treatments and two 1-Hour Express treatments.

Other things to know: Slower than professional treatments—results take several sessions over the course of a few weeks. Not as good as the typical Costco Crest 3D Whitestrips deals we see, but a good discount for those without a Costco membership.

Read our ode to Crest 3D Whitestrips .

Yamazaki Home Tower Shoe Rack — Upgrade Pick Amazon deal price: $94 in select colors ; street price: $115

What we like: The investment-worthy upgrade pick from our guide to the best shoe racks. Slim enough to fit in a closet, but sleek enough for an entryway. Stores up to 24 pairs of shoes. Steel and wood veneer. Top could double as an entryway shelf. Two hooks on the side for keys or an umbrella.

Other things to know: The rack assembles quickly but will require using a screwdriver. Only holds adult-sized shoes; tiny shoes will tumble through. Only on sale in white.

Read our review of the best shoe rack .

Sabai The Essential Sofa — Our Pick Sabai deal price: $1,408 shipped ; street price: $1,640

What we like: Our favorite eco-friendly three-seater sofa pick. Cushions remain plump and unworn after years of use. Available in multiple configurations, fabrics, and colors. Many components are replaceable and recyclable.

Other things to know: Low back and shallow seating may not be the comfiest for lounging. Deal price reflects sample configuration with included shipping cost. The Essential Sofa is made to order and ships within two to four weeks.

Read our review of the best the best sofas you can buy online .

Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer (Refurbished) — Upgrade Pick Walmart deal price: $220 ; street price: $300

What we like: Our longtime upgrade hair dryer pick. Unique design makes for an extraordinarily pleasant user experience. No vibration whatsoever. Simple-to-switch magnetic attachments make styling a breeze. Consistently our favorite hair dryer to use since we first tested it in 2016.

Other things to know: Pricey, and doesn’t make your hair look any different than cheaper options. Available in the select finishes. Manufacturer refurbished. One-year Dyson warranty and 30-day returns.

Read our review of the best hair dryer .

Threshold White Waffle Weave Shower Curtain — Our Pick Target deal price: $20 with store pickup (free shipping for RedCard holders) ; street price: $25

What we like: Our longtime pick for the best classic waffle-weave shower curtain. Simple, timeless, and durable. Easy to clean. Neutral design will complement just about any bathroom.

Other things to know: Available in white or gray. Select store pickup or make a combined order of $35 or more to avoid shipping fees. RedCard holders get free shipping and save an extra 5%.

Read our review of the best shower curtains .

GoYouth 2 in 1 Under Desk Electric Treadmill — Also Great Amazon deal price: $240 in select colors with clipped on-page coupon ; street price: $340

What we like: Our better-warranty under-desk treadmill pick. Easy to set up. Offers a smooth ride, a deck screen with Bluetooth speaker, and a belt size mirroring that of our top pick. Comes with a one-year warranty, which is substantially better than tour top pick's 90-day warranty.

Other things to know: Walking pad tops out at 3.7 mph. Can only support up to 220 pounds. In our testing, its belt started to fray after just a few weeks of use—damage that isn’t covered by the warranty. The red and blue colors are down to $240 with the clipped on-page coupon.

Read our review of the best under-desk treadmills .

Apotheke Charcoal Candle — Our Pick Bloomingdale's deal price: $33 in cart ; street price: $44

What we like: Our elegant, monochromatic pick for a warm and woodsy scented candle. Notes of charred sandalwood and cedar after a heavy rain. Fragrant but not heavy or overpowering. Sleek matte-black vessel is as stylish as it is adept at hiding soot streaks, fingerprints, and other smudges.

Other things to know: About 70-hour burn time. We wish it came with a lid or dust cover. Jar is reusable, but the company name is printed on the glass, so it’s impossible to remove. Price reflects in cart. We've seen better deals for the 3-wick size, but this is a solid deal for this size.

Read our review of our favorite scented candles .

Lutron Caséta Wireless In-Wall Smart Dimmer Switch (2-Count Kit) — Another Good Option Amazon deal price: $136 ; street price: $170

What we like: A good smart light dimmer switch if you don’t have great Wi-Fi. Easy-to-use keypad for dimming and powering lights manually. Easy to install. Works reliably with many smart-home devices. A pick when we started this guide, and we will continue to sing its praises.

Other things to know: Includes two switches, required Lutron Caséta Smart Bridge, and two wireless remotes. Uses ClearConnect wireless. Neutral wire required (which may be an issue in homes with old wiring).

Read our review of the best in-wall smart light switch and dimmer .

Akron Street Mysa Bed (Queen) — Our Pick Akron Street deal price: $1,166 in cart with code TOTHETRADE ; street price: $1,295

What we like: Our pick for a no-frills, all-oak modern bed. Supremely simple, clean aesthetic with a low profile. Solid white oak construction. Supported by 15 acacia pine slats. Easy-to-assemble. Built to last. Works especially well with tall mattresses and small bedrooms.

Other things to know: Has 11.5-inch height, with an under-bed clearance of 6.8 inches. No warranty. Price reflects in cart or use code TOTHETRADE . Standard shipping is free.

Read our review of the best modern bed frames to dress up your bedroom .

Homeasy Fabric Shaver — Our Pick Amazon deal price: $22 ; street price: $25

What we like: Our favorite electric fabric shaver. Features six sharp blades, a wide head, and intuitive controls. Very effective at getting rid of fuzz during our tests. Quiet and comfortable to hold. USB-rechargeable.

Other thing to know: Three to six hour battery life on a full charge. Includes two replacement blades. About $2 higher than the lowest sale price we've seen, but still a good value.

Read our review of the best laundry aides to help your clothes look better and last longer .

Eufy Security Video Doorbell S220 (Battery-Powered) — Our Pick Amazon deal price: $100 with clipped on-page coupon ; street price: $180

What we like: Our pick for the best battery-operated smart doorbell camera. Solid performance with exceptional battery life. Sharp 2K image with local or cloud storage options. (Cloud offers 30 days of history for $3 per month or $30 per year, per camera.)

Other things to know: Compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. Recordings are limited to 60 seconds. Gaps between recordings can last around 8 seconds. Includes Eufy HomeBase. Make sure to clip the on-page coupon to get the deal price.

Read our review of the best smart doorbell camera .

Winix 5500-2 Air Purifier — Also Great Amazon deal price: $128 ; street price: $150

What we like: An exceptional air purifier with a brutalist (or, if you prefer, minimalist) design. Venerable model with years of proven reliability. Performs similarly to the top-pick Coway Mighty and usually costs less up front.

Other things to know: No display shutoff except in lowest-purification sleep mode. Slightly elevated electrical use and larger visual footprint compared with our top pick.

Read our review of the best air purifier .

Revival Rugs - 25% Off Jute Area Rugs — Our Pick Revival deal price: $219 with code WCJUTE25 ; street price: $290

What we like: Our pick for a natural-fiber rug that comes in several colors. Flexible and finely woven, giving it a more delicate, flat appearance. Feels soft underfoot and barely sheds. Easy to vacuum and lightweight enough to shake out outside.

Other things to know: Best for dining rooms, kitchens, hallways, or layering in living rooms or bedrooms. Spot-clean only, as jute is very susceptible to water and humidity. Use code WCJUTE25 to save 25% on all jute rugs. Deal price is for the 5-by-8-foot size, but pricing varies depending on total cost; no minimum spend.

Read our review of the best area rugs .

Waterpik Aquarius Water Flosser — Runner-Up Amazon deal price: $58 ; street price: $80

What we like: Our runner-up pick for the best water flosser is just as effective as our top pick and comes with a similar three-year warranty. Easy to use and clean. Ten pressure settings, including a “massage” setting that emits pulses of water.

Other things to know: This is a corded model and requires a power outlet during use. Takes up more counter space than our top pick. Recurring deal price; $10 more than the deal we saw during Cyber Week.

Read our review of the best water flossers .

Black+Decker Pet Hair Remover — Staff Favorite Walmart deal price: $10 with store pickup ; street price: $16

What we like: A lint roller for pet hair recommended by the Wirecutter staff. Reusable and tape-free. Effectively catches stray fur on fabric surfaces. The brush is made of velvet and silicone that grips the fur and traps it in a bin behind the roller. Works great on bedding.

Other things to know: Roll it back and forth on your bedding, couch, or clothing to pick up hair, and press the button to empty it once the bin is full. Opt for store pickup to avoid shipping fees or add to a combined order over $35 for free shipping.

Read our review of the best pet hair removers .

PetKit Eversweet Solo 2 Water Fountain — Upcoming Pick Amazon deal price: $40 ; street price: $50

What we like: An upcoming pick in our pet water fountain guide. Only five main parts to keep track of. The easiest fountain to take apart and clean in testing. Nearly silent wireless pump has a convenient auto shut-off feature, so it doesn’t burn out when the water level gets too low.

Other things to know: Also comes with a companion app, which lets you set up cleaning and refill reminders, but it has a limited feature set.

Read our review of the best water fountain for cats and dogs .

Potaroma Flopping Fish Toy — Gift Pick Amazon deal price: $10 ; street price: $14

What we like: A rechargeable motorized fish toy recommended in our guide to the best gifts for cats (and the humans they tolerate). Built-in motor has a motion sensor; as soon as you touch it, the fish wiggles around. Comes with a little bag of catnip.

Other things to know: A padded fabric toy. Charges via included USB cable. Several fish patterns are on sale for $10.

Read our review of the best gifts for cats .

PetFusion Jumbo Cat Scratcher Lounge — Upgrade Pick Amazon deal price: $68 ; street price: $80

What we like: Our pick for the best cat bed for multicat households, this doubles as a scratcher, too. Both the largest bed we tested and the nicest scratcher we found. Big enough to sleep four cats comfortably. You can flip it over and use the underside when the top side shows wear and tear, prolonging its lifespan.

Other things to know: Large, about 39 by 14 inches. Cardboard may be too densely packed for some cats to comfortably scratch.

Read our review of the best cat beds (according to our cats) .

Editor’s note: The photo at the top of this article may reflect previous deals that are no longer valid and have been removed. Check out our Deals page for more great discounts on Wirecutter’s expert-approved picks.

This article was edited by Janie Campbell and Nathan Burrow.

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Wirecutter Staff