A Smittybilt winch can be just the thing to get you out of a jam. Sometimes picking a winch is not as easy as it sounds, especially because we carry so many brands, and so many different kinds of winches. For Jeeps, trucks, and ATVs, we have a winch for just about everything. Today we are talking about two similar Smittybilt Winches.

Smittybilt XRC Winches


We're looking at Smittybilt  X2O and XRC winches. While there are some obvious similarities between the two, there are some dramatic differences to look for, which can help you choose the winch that's best for your rig.

The Standard XRC Smittybilt Comp Winches

Smittybilt has been making the XRC series winches for several years. It's a popular winch with many 4x4 and off-road enthusiasts, and is known for it's strong Smittybilt construction and real world reliability. The standard XRC Winches feature a wide range of pull rates, from 9,500 lbs to 17,500 lbs. So in that respect, you've got plenty of choices on power. The Smittybilt XRC-9.5 Comp Gen2 Winch, for example, runs a synthetic rope with a performance  aluminum fairlead included. It's heavy duty, with a 6.6 HP motor. This winch is rated at 9,500 lbs for a single line pull. The 3-stage planetary gear system features revised gear ratios for increased line speed and pulling power. The redesigned solenoid box can be mounted in three locations on the winch for maximum versatility. A remote control is included with the winch, and the whole assembly weighs in at only 46 lbs. Combine all these features with a waterproof rating of IP67, and you've got a winch that can get you out of some tight spots in a hurry. But what if you want more from your winch?

The Smittybilt X20 COMP Winches with Amphibious Technology


The X2O series has all the great attributes of the standard XRC series, but with a few more features to put it ahead of the pack. The Smittybilt X20-10 Comp Gen2 Winch also uses the synthetic rope, and a competition aluminum fairlead. And it still uses the reliable 6.6 HP motor. But it also includes a a new wireless remote, and a Dynamic braking system. The wireless remote allows you to operate the winch from a safer distance, and in situations where you may be winching by yourself. The remote can still be used with a wire if you choose to do so. The remote is also magnetic, so you can quickly attach it to the winch, bumper, or metal body to keep it close and handy. No more dropping it in the mud or trying to cram it in your pocket! The Dynamic braking system reduces the drum temperature by as much as 66%. This is an advantage when running a synthetic rope. Cooler temperatures mean more power and reliability from your winch. So which one best suits your needs? Both are great winches if you use a winch while trailing. With the waterproof features, the synthetic rope, aluminum fairlead, and Dynamic braking system, the X2O will operate the fastest of the two models. The wireless remote is a feature that offers a convenience you may want to have when using a winch often, and the Dynamic braking will keep your winch cooler. Both products are a GEN-2 model, and have been improved over the standard Smittybilt XRC winches of the past.

What bells and whistles does your winch have?