Best Log Splitter – Electric Hydraulic and Gas Powered

If you're reading this, I guess you've had cause to split wood in your lifetime the old fashioned way – with an ax. It's back-breaking, and it's risky business, you might hurt your small toe – ouch! Even if you haven't had cause to split wood yet, it’s the winter. For those of you desiring warmth from a fire hearth – with or without the absence of indoor electric heating, wood splitting becomes necessary.  What about those meals you need to cook the old fashion way? Well, split those logs.

Well, thank God for technology. You do not need to worry about getting those muscles ripped all because you need some wood. On choosing the best log splitter, you must know the exact result you want for the logs you plan to split and the type of log it is.

Whether you own a home or run a small shop and you are in the market for a not too powerful machine to carry out simple splitting jobs, or you need logs split on an industrial scale, there are factors you need to consider too. Below are the main factors.

BUYER'S GUIDE IN CHOOSING THE BEST LOG SPLITTER

Its log length and diameter splitting range.

This is a huge factor to consider as it will determine how much wood can be split and at what time? It is always better to have a log splitter that receives wood in excess than those which receive under.

Portable wheels and ball-hinge for easy towing.

It is important to be able to drag along your log splitter into the shed or garage or space where you usually store your stuff. Thus, to shield it from the elements and ensure its longevity and lasting durability. Also, the owner or user shouldn't have to need help from a second person to keep it in a safe place. This is the advantage of most splitters with wheels. For those without wheels that need towing, they usually come equipped with a ball hitch to help you do the transportation. But, be wary when traveling with your log splitter, as not all can go safely at freeway speeds.

Rapid cycle times.

A fast cycle time gives your splitter the ability to split more wood in less time. Usually, you can consider about 15 seconds decent as far as cycle times go. You'll find that this plays an essential part in your splitting efficiency and productivity.

Having an all-steel construction.

Generally, log splitters are for consistent use for many years of trouble-free wood splitting. But, this also depends on the materials of construction. Go for all steel construction designs which are very durable, if I do say so myself. Looking for this in any log splitter is important.

Warranty, manufacturer, and reviews from reliable websites.

These three factors are crucial. Ensure you only go for log splitters with at least a 1-year warranty. Read reviews to ensure they make good on their warranty claims. Also, check feedbacks as they contain valuable information that would give you an advantage when making a decision. The following are trusted reputable brand names you can choose from, Pow ‘R' Kraft, WOODEZE, Troy-Bilt, and Powerhouse.

OUR TOP 10 LOG SPLITTERS

1. Sun Joe LJ10M Logger Joe 10 Ton Hydraulic Log Splitter

The Sun Joe LOGGER JOE LJ10M 10-Ton Hydraulic Log Splitter helps you embrace your inner strength. It is effective in making your workload seem effortless. It helps you make light work of the piles of the large logs. Thereby, giving you the help you need in tackling them with efficiency.

Harness the power of the manually operated 2-speed pump. It generates up to 10 tons of driving force to split firewood logs up to 18" long x 8" wide.

The LJ10M Log Splitter consists of durable steel construction for reliable power and performance. It will show you the actual meaning of durability. Its rear wheels ensure easy maneuverability when necessary. Plus, its compact size makes it easy to store when not in use. It also ha a full two-year warranty.

It is simple enough to work with this non-electric, non-gas powered, manual hydraulic log splitting wonder. It requires no cords or oils. It is lightweight compared to big electric splitters. Powerful hydraulic ram builds up to 10 tons of driving force

Log cradle prevents split wood from falling. It also has a fast ram return speed for spring reset. The wheels also help for easy storage and it is maintenance-free.

2. 10 Ton Horizontal Log Splitter Wood Cutter Manual Hydraulic 2 Speed Wheel

This log splitter is a very useful device if you have a woodstove or fireplace. It is helpful if you ever need to split wood for any reason and would help you avoid getting calluses on your hands. It's for those who are used to the old-fashioned way of cutting wood with sledgehammers and wedges. This hydraulic splitter manually manipulated, generates up to 10 tons of splitting force, enough to split logs. Hence, depending on wood density,  as long as 18", thick as 6-1/2" in diameter.

This device will make the process of cutting wood easier and quicker than most splitters. Although, there is still work involved. You will still need to get your wood under 18" long to fit into this device. This is the part you might not like as an average log splitter user especially if this is your first time.

Moving the device around is a pain in the butt despite the fact that it has two wheels helping you roll it around. It's heavy and cumbersome but for obvious reasons. You flat out need something this powerful to produce the force it yields. It is a very active and impressive splitter.

It is very easy to assemble, with the possible exception of installing the springs. They take a little effort, but the user can still install it themselves. It should take user less than 20 minutes to assemble.

The pressure on both handles works great. You might need to bleed the lines in the hydraulic unit. That's not too difficult, and the instruction manual does cover how to do this procedure. Manufacturers like Harbor Freight provide direct technical help. They sell for about eighty bucks provided you buy direct from their stores.

A little difficult to use if the wood is completely dry. If the wood was completely dry, it might be quicker to use a massive ax than to use this device.

You can split wood as small as 2”. But, you have to create some blocks that would allow you to hold the pieces and split them at any size as long as they are shorter than 18".

The construction is very solid; the user would need no help dropping it from the bed of their pickup. It isn't too heavy that it can't be portable, to take into the wood, split the wood there, and leave the mess behind. But, it is a little cumbersome nonetheless.

3. Pow' R' Kraft 65556 4-Ton 15 Amp Electric Log Splitter

This Pow'R'kraft 4-ton electric log splitter comes equipped with a 1,500-watt electric motor. It's running on regular current with a ground fault breaker shielding it against overload.

This electric log splitter will split wood up to 20-inch long and up to a 10-inch diameter. Pow'R'kraft 4-Ton Log Splitter's 2HP electric motor is capable of splitting a log of Wood in a Breeze.

It auto returns when you release both buttons and lever. The product is delivered fully assembled and ready to use outdoor or indoor. The stout, all-steel construction and heavy-duty hydraulic components will last one splitting season after another.

It comes with a 2-year warranty. The product is capable of splitting hardwoods & softwoods of all kinds. Such as alder, ash, birch, cedar, black cherry, cottonwood, fir, elm, hemlock, madrone, mahogany, maple, oak, pine, redwood, spruce, and walnut.

It is the best electric log splitter in 2020. The Pow’ R’ Kraft 65556 4-ton 15 amp electric log splitter is a workhorse. It's designed to handle even the most difficult splitting tasks with remarkable precision and speed.

Its powerful 1,500 Motor is essential when it comes to selecting an electric log splitter. The Pow’ R’ Kraft 65556 4-Ton 15 scores great in this area. Thanks to its powerful 1,500-watt electric motor that allows it to split logs with a diameter of up 12 inches.

With a 4 Tons RAM Splitting Force, it might catch your attention to know that the Pow’ R’ Kraft has a 4-ton splitting capacity. As well as an all-steel construction to guarantee you a lifetime of wood splitting.

For consistency and increased safety, the Pow’ R’ Kraft 65556 4-Ton 15 Amp Electric Log Splitter allows handed operation. Thereby keeping your hands safe with every use, making it a more secure option.

4. Boss Industrial ES7T20 Electric Log Splitter, 7-Ton – EDITOR’S CHOICE

This electric log splitter has a host of features and boasts outstanding performance. It is one of the best wood splitters your money can buy in the market.

Its ergonomic design, one-hand operation, and short cycle time. Thus, allowing you to split lots of wood without tiring. And, it can break a variety of wood from oak to pine, larch, fir, birch, and almond thanks to its 7-ton splitting force.

It offers easy portability. It's performing jobs in half the time allotted due to the automatic ram return. This splitter has a rugged design and professional-grade hydraulics. The quality craftsmanship ensures that this workhorse will keep on splitting.

The 7-inch wedge system of the Boss Industrial Log Splitter can cut through logs with a diameter of up to 10 inches. The Professional Grade Hydraulic System allows the machine to handle splitting tasks of an average household with relative ease. In essence, the system increases its efficiency.

It features a variety of specific benefits:

Automatic Ram Return

The speed at which a wood splitter’s ram returns to its original position cannot be overemphasized as it is highly essential. As a matter of fact, it is one of the factors to consider when buying a log splitter. Because of its automatic ram return, the Boss Industrial ES7T20 can split logs at a faster rate. The feature enables you to concentrate on placing the logs on the splitting rail, one at a time.

Robust 2 HP Electric Motor

The Boss Industrial Log Splitter is powered by a powerful 2 HP electric motor. Hence, making this machine excellent at splitting the cord of seasoned wood. Due to its power, you should have no problem using this machine to break down unwanted logs and foliage.

One-Handed Operation

Splitting logs is not an easy task, especially when you have a large amount of wood to cut. Thus, you need a log splitter that allows you to break a lot of wood without getting tired in due time. You can operate the Boss Industrial ES7T20 with one hand. This is a feature that enables you to do a lot without breaking a sweat. This one-handed operation also keeps your hands safe from injuries.

Easy Push Button Electronic Start

This electric wood splitter comes with easy to reach buttons, a very essential feature any log splitter should have. You want your machine to get going as soon as possible. This machine will only take you a couple of minutes to start using the ES7T20. Also, switching it off is very easy and fast.

Important Tip to Remember:

• To ensure that this machine is always at its best performance, be sure to change the hydraulic oil at least once every year.

5. Goplus® New 1500W 6 Ton Electric Hydraulic Log Splitter Wood Portable Cutter Powerful

This Goplus new 1500w 6ton electric hydraulic log splitter is an excellent choice for any home with a wood-burning stove or fireplace. The log splitter's 6-ton of RAM force can split logs to 20.4 inches long and 1.9-9.8 inches in diameter. The electric log splitter features an efficient design for easy transport. It is very convenient for you to deal with the woods. It performs so much better when the wood is dry. Do not hesitate to buy this machine if you need it. It comes with its set of amazing features.

6. Champion Power Equipment No.92221 Gas Powered Log Splitter, 22-Ton

Its DOT approved tires are made for speeds up to 45 mph.

7. HelkoVario 2000 Heavy Log Splitter

8. NorthStar Horizontal/Vertical Log Splitter - 37-Ton, 270cc Honda GX270 Engine

Its features are:

• Max. Log Size L x W (in.): 25 x 16.
• Gross Torque: 14.1 at 2,500 RPM.
• Engine: Honda GX w/idle control.
• Engine Displacement (cc): 270.
• Cylinder: 5"x24".
• Pump: Concentric 16 GPM.
• 2-stage Fuel Capacity (gal.): 1.4.
• It contains hoses and jack stands.
• Ball Coupler (in.): 2.
• Dimensions L x W x H (in.): 90 x 43 x 42.
• Oil Reservoir (gal.): 9.Log Cradle: Yes.
• Ram Force (Tons): 37.Tire Size: 4.80 x 8.
• Wedge: Yes, retracting wedge

9. Powerhouse Log Splitters XM-580 9 Ton Electric Hydraulic Horizontal Log Splitter, Red/Black/Silver

These make of log splitters i.e. the Powerhouse Log Splitters, are the essence of what a 21st-century log splitter should be. Their designs are quite contemporary. But, do not let that fool you as these log splitters are effortlessly rugged and functional. Powerhouse Log Splitters have left a remarkable impression on customers all over the world.

Motor: 3.5HP, 2200 Watts - no running out of gas and starts every time. It has a new patented hydraulic system which increases its torque by 45%.

It is quiet, so no fumes and no air compressor needed.

You can use it on the ground or the bench, outside and inside as there are no fumes!

Very easy to use. No experience necessary.

It is very portable and can split 13" green, red oak 16" long with it.

The motor is not as powerful. It is about 2340W, 19.5 amps and 120 volts. It equates out to 2 - 2.5 HP, not 5 HP. So you can use it on a 20 amp 120-volt household outlet. Unfortunately, some users have to go through the expense of installing a 40 amp 120-volt circuit.

Great machine for my needs. It did split fresh oak logs 12-inch diameter with ease. It is fast enough to keep the user busy with the split logs. It built very well and would last for years.

It is small, compact, and powerful too.

10. TR Industrial TR89130 15 Amp Electric Log Splitter with Ergonomic Stand, 5 Ton – Top Quality

With its five-ton splitting power, backed up with a powerful 15 amp motor, the TR Industrial log splitter has been engineered and constructed to be easy to use, dependable, and safe. It splits logs up to 20.5 inches (Length) by 12 inches (Diameter).  The TR Industrial log splitter is set up higher than most other log splitters. It stands at an impressive 3 feet. Thus, making placing wood in the machine easy-peasy. It prevents you from having to bend down and stand upright every time you need to load the machine up with wood. It only needs a little more attention to maintenance and care. This two-hand operated log splitter is capable of handling your heavy-duty log splitting needs for years to come.

Two-hand operation - one hand on the power button, the other hand on the hydraulic lever to control.

Manual Labor Hurts and this log splitter helps save your back:

Using an ax to split logs can be fun, but it's only fun until somebody gets hurt. It is advisable to relieve your body of excess stress and pain. Hence, use an electric log splitter that's designed to prevent injury. Split logs up to 20.5 inches (length) by 12 inches (diameter) by pressing down a button and lever. Besides, being a huge relief from manual labor, TR Industrial's log splitter is also better for you than other electric log splitters. You can work while standing rather than bending down.

Having a stand makes all the difference. While you set most log splitters close to the ground, which in turn forces you to bend down and strain your back, knees, and ankles. TR Industrial includes a convenient waist-high stand that makes your job easy, efficient, and makes you less prone to injury.

Some may decide to place their log splitter on a home-made bench or table to hold it up. But, this can be very dangerous. Log splitters are very cumbersome machines (usually around 100 pounds). The stand is the best solution for this problem, and it is also removable if you wish to remove it for any reason.

More Power Does Not Have to Cost More Money

This log splitter comes with a powerful 15 AMP motor and boasts 5 tons of splitting power. While it is among the most robust and durable in its class, it also sports a stand at 3 feet tall. And it is at a very reasonable price point.

This machine is so unique; it comes with a waist-high stand.

The steps on installing this stand are listed below:

• Close the bleed screw.
• Flip the log splitter upside down and insert the leg bars into the slots as shown.
• Use the included fasteners/hardware to keep the leg bars in place.
• Install the central balance bar by using the included fasteners.
• Install the wheels on the outside of the bar as shown using the included screws.
• Install the leg bars on the opposite side near the handle following steps 2 and 3.
• Install the stand handle as shown using the included fasteners.
• Tighten in place using the included screws. Remember to open the bleed screw again before using it.

Safety Precautions For You

TR Industrial's log splitter endured intensive testing to ensure that it is CSA approved. The electric cable is also double-insulated to protect against electric shock. With the stand, the log splitter reaches about waist height (3 feet). The above makes it easy to load and unload logs, and it decreases back strain.

Automatic and Simple

Hold the power button and press the lever at the same time. No need to touch the log during operation. The wood will be rent asunder, and the splitting mechanism will return to its original position. That will be automatic upon release of the power button.

TR Industrial's Guarantee

TR Industrial includes a 2-Year Warranty (although limited). And with the right care, this wood splitter can take care of your heavy-duty log splitting needs for years to come.

Conclusion