If you are planning on splitting wood close to your house then a electric log splitter can be the quickest and easiest method for splitting large amounts of wood. On the market there are a variety of well-trusted and reliable electric log splitters. Choosing the right machine can help you split logs with ease and dramatically cut time from your firewood cutting.
Owning a log splitter is a must for any serious woodcutter or homeowner that relies on a steady source of firewood for the winter seasons. If you’ve never used a log splitter you’ll be surprised at just how much time and energy the right unit can can save, not to mention hours or hard labor.
Electric log splitters are available in a variety of sizes. You’ll find smaller unites for occasional use and to larger more powerful units for higher workloads.
Each log splitter is capable of producing a maximum level of force measured in tonnage. The higher the tons of force produced the easier the log splitter will split more difficult and tough logs.
For a serious woodcutter having at least 5+ tons of force in a electric log splitter model should suffice, but as always having additional power will allow for easy splitting of tough wood.
Contents
Best Electric Log Splitters 2017
Electric Log Splitter Reviews
There are tons of high-rated electric wood splitters on the market with a wide range of power and size options. Here is a list of our top picks for the best electric log splitter 2017.
Boss Industrial 7-Ton Electric Log Splitter
It can be a difficult decision whether to go with the Boss Industrial 7-Ton Electric Log Splitter or its baby cousin the Boss 5-ton electric wood splitter but you will have no regrets with spending the extra $100 for the additional two tons of splitting force, proving worthwhile on harder, denser woods.
The Boss Industrial 7-Ton Electric Log Splitter is build for heavy duty splitting and has enough brute to go right through anything you put past it, whether green, gnarly or knotted chunks of wood or dried hard wood. It’s a great splitter for moderate sized work, somewhere in the middle of the light seasonal user and the guy churning out a cord a day.
See the latest prices and and read reviews on Amazon.com
Pros
Releasing the handle with your hand makes the ram immediately reverse back to the start. While quite a few other log splitters feature a two handed operation as their safety feature, the automatic ram release also acts as a safety feature but saves a lot more time.
Being able to operate the splitter in a horizontal position low to the ground means you don’t have to lift those heavy logs up much higher than a few inches before they are split into bite size pieces. The logs also don’t have very far to fall once they are cut, making the operating level an added safety feature.
Powerful yet small and compact, making for easy transportation in most vehicles.
Perfect for residential use, no gas fumes emitted and far less maintenance than gas splitters in terms of refilling of gas and ensuring you are operating in a well ventilated area. It operates at a relatively quiet level of noise especially compared to the gas splitters.
No assembly required other than screwing on the handle. The operation manual is well set out and goes into great detail on troubleshooting techniques and describes down to the last nut and bolt the names of each component within the splitter.
Cons
A lot of feedback suggests that for some reason this machine more often than not comes with very low hydraulic fluid, even though the advertisement mentions it is topped up and ready to start splitting wood straight off the freight truck. I found this mentioned time and time again in multiple reviews. Veer on the safe side and check the fluid as soon as you receive the splitter to avoid any serious damage to your freshly bought machine. It’s not likely this kind of fault will be covered under warranty but if it happens it’s worthwhile arguing your case based on previous reviews.
Even though I listed the machine operating close to the ground as a positive aspect I will also list it as a negative based on quite a few customers mentioning that making a table or stand is necessary and makes all the difference. You can purchase stand kits through Amazon or specialty retailers. I have listed this in the “Cons” as it’s most likely an additional few hours in the shed for you to alter the splitter’s work space or an additional expense you will have to go to.
Boss Industrial 7-Ton Electric Log Splitter Specs:
- 7 Ton splitting force in horizontal position
- Durable and strong 7-inch steel wedge
- Can split logs up to 20.5″ in length and 10″ in diameter
- Dependable 2 HP electric motor w/ electric button start
- Automatic ram return makes splitting faster
- Easy to use handle for one handed-operation
- Professional-grade hydraulic system
- Lightweight & easy to move
- Durable high density rubber tires & wheels
- Comes fully assembled
- Machine dimensions: (LxWxH) 39.5 x 13.5 x 20 inches
- Weight: 106 pounds
- Cycle time 14 secs (9sec feed/5sec retract)
- Oil capacity: 3.8L
- Power output: 1500W
Using The Log Splitter
As with other compact electric log splitters they’re more or less ready to go straight off the freight truck. Remove the splitter from the box and screw the control handle lever into the handle bracket. Have a quick check over to make sure all the nuts, bolts and hydraulic fittings are tightened. Ensure you have your standard safety gear, protective glasses, gloves and steel caps.
You’ll most likely use an extension cord, locate the nearest power point to where you have the splitter set up. Loosen the hydraulic vent valve. This is the most important part when setting up. Also ensuring it’s closed back off if you plan on moving the machine around (to prevent spillage of hydraulic oil) and certainly make sure it’s closed once you’ve finished the job. Block the wheels to prevent the splitter moving while in operation. Press the power button and place the log firmly against one of the wedges.
Both ends of the log should be cut as square as possible to ensure the log does not ride out of the splitter during operation. Simply move the handle down in order to split the log and release the handle once split. The ram will automatically return ready for the next log. Don’t attempt to split logs bigger than the recommended length, you will only shorten the life span of the machine. Make sure you keep anything or anyone away from the sides of the splitter to prevent damage or injury as occasionally a log might fire off the splitter. The hydraulic fluid will need to be changed after every 100 hours of use so ensure you keep an eye on the levels from time to time.
Top highlights of the machine:
- One handed operating system.
- Well priced for the splitting force you get for your dollars.
- Easy push electric start button.
- 14 second cycle time.
- Automatic ram reverse safety feature.
The Bottom Line: Boss Industrial 7-Ton Electric Log Splitter
Choosing the Boss Industrial 7-Ton Electric Log Splitter over the 5-Ton model is certainly money well spent. The extra two tons of force makes all the difference in the tougher to split logs.
The Boss Industrial 7-Ton Electric Log splitter is a heavy duty machine manufactured with top of the line build quality and tough material built to last. Boss Industrial is a highly reputable company and are renowned for great quality products.
WEN 6-Ton Electric Log Splitter
Product Highlights:
- Durable 2 HP electric motor uses household current; easy electric starts
- Built-in log cradle keeps logs in place when splitting
- Can split logs up to 20.5″ in length and up to 10″ in diameter
- Portable & easy to move with two comfort grip handles and durable 6″ rubber tires
- Top rated and top seller on Amazon
See the latest prices and and read reviews on Amazon.com
Full Review Coming Soon…
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Pow’ R’ Kraft 7-Ton 2-Speed Electric Log Splitter
Product Highlights:
- Powerful 3 Horsepower motor
- 7 tons of RAM splitting force
- Can split logs up to 20-inches long and 12-inches in diameter
- Durable all steel construction
- 2 speed splitting means efficient splitting and energy saving
See the latest prices and and read reviews on Amazon.com
Full Review Coming Soon…
Pow’ R’ Kraft 4-Ton Electric Log Splitter
Splitting logs for firewood can be back breaking work and not something a lot of people look forward to in the cooler months but if you’re not wanting to spend too much on a splitter and your work load isn’t too heavy the Pow’ R’ Kraft 4-Ton Electric Log Splitter is the perfect home owner’s companion at just under $270 (Amazon). 4-tons of splitting force is more than enough for your average backyard jobs. This machine is recommended for the home user who is looking to split their own wood without having to pay for the high costs that comes with hiring splitters each season.
You will actually enjoy the simplicity and ease of using the Pow’ R’ Kraft 4-Ton Electric Log Splitter and wont need to worry about the high maintenance costs, the exhaust or the noise that comes with buying gas splitters. If it’s freezing cold or pouring rain outside you have the advantage of being able to operate the splitter indoors. This is a tough little machine capable of splitting up to 20 inch in length and 10 inch in diameter.
The all steel construction ensures a long working life and it features a durable and tough design.
See the latest prices and and read reviews on Amazon.com
Pros
The Pow’ R’ Kraft 4-Ton Splitter features a great safety function whereby if you push the splitter too hard it will actually temporarily shut off the motor. Pow’R’Kraft have really thought ahead by adding this feature as you don’t have to worry about damaging the machine as it is the minimum amount of tons you can get in a splitter. Simply push the button on the unit to reset it.
The affordable price is a big positive. A lot of light users sometimes hesitate when it comes to spending money on splitters. The Pow’R’Kraft 4-Ton is the splitter to buy if you are not after a big fancy machine as you simply wont need the extra splitting force that comes with spending more money. You’ll wish you had of made the purchase years ago to save all that time splitting by hand.
Its compact size makes it a breeze to store and to transport, fitting in most small vehicles.
Cons
You will probably need to look at getting an extra stand to prevent all the bending and kneeling down to operate the machine. I am putting this point in as a negative one because you will most likely need to spend extra money or time building a suitable stand. The inconvenience of kneeling down to operate the machine outweighs any risk of logs falling off the tray at a heightened level of operation. You do however then need to lift the logs up to the stand. Also the two-handed operation is harder at ground level than it is at a higher level on a bench or stand.
Tougher knotted wood can become difficult to split. You have to keep re-positioning the log to offset the centre. This can only be expected for a small splitter.
Pow’ R’ Kraft 4-Ton Electric Log Splitter Features:
- Durable 1,500 watt electric motor; operates with regular household current
- Can split up logs up to 20-inches long and 10-inches in diameter (capable of 12-inches for most woods)
- Tough all steel construction for ultimate durability
- 4 tons of RAM splitting force
- High performance and value for your money
- Ground-fault circuit protected
- All steel construction
- Splits logs up to 20 inch in length/10 inch in diameter
- Weight: 97 lbs
- 15 second cycle time
- Machine overload safety feature
Using The Log Splitter
As the unit will arrive fully assembled, you can have it up and running within five minutes of it being received off the freight truck. Remove the splitter from the box and have a quick check over to make sure all the nuts, bolts and hydraulic fittings are tightened. Ensure you have your standard safety gear, protective glasses, gloves and steel caps. You’ll most likely use an extension cord, locate the nearest power point to where you want to have the splitter set up.
If you are working a soft ground ensure you place a piece of plywood or alike underneath the splitter. Loosen the hydraulic vent valve. This is the most important part when setting up. Also ensuring it’s closed back off if you plan on moving the machine around (to prevent spillage of hydraulic oil) and certainly make sure it’s closed once you’ve finished the job. Block the wheels to prevent the splitter moving while in operation.
The machine is simple to operate, make sure you’re in the safety of the operating zone behind the machine, place the log firmly against the wedge on the splitter, your left hand is on the control while you use your right hand finger to engage the motor. Once the log is split the ram will automatically return to the start, on time, every time, ready for the next log. Make sure you keep anything or anyone away from the sides of the splitter to prevent damage or injury as from time to time a log can fly out from the side of the tray. The hydraulic fluid will need to be changed after every 100 hours of use. Wait a good five minutes after operation for the unit to cool down before placing the splitter into storage.
Top highlights of the machine:
- Powerful, fast and easy to use
- Heavy duty design
- Quiet operating
- Sturdy and reliable
- Wide opening for longer logs
The Bottom Line: Pow’ R’ Kraft 4-Ton Electric Log Splitter
You will be impressed by the results of the Pow’ R’ Kraft 4-Ton Splitter given its size and happy to put the axe down for good. This machine is built to last with its tough design and breezes through most logs.
It’s a good feeling to look at a big pile of split logs knowing that it took barely any time to work through. The Pow’R’Kraft 4-Ton splitter lives up to its name and the great reviews that are coming back from customers that purchased this unit. Your friends might laugh at the tiny machine but they will be blown away by the power that’s behind it.
Boss Industrial 5-Ton Electric Log Splitter
Introducing the Boss Industrial 5-Ton Electric Log Splitter at just under $350 (and free shipping when you buy through Amazon.com) you’ll be glad to put down the axe for good. You’ll split more wood in an hour than you would in a day with the axe. Whether you’re buying to split a few cords of kindling for the family home or as a reliable backup for an existing model, this unit is in hot demand.
Featuring easy push button electric start and one handed operation, it makes jobs a breeze if you’re working solo. Once the log has split and the lever is released it will go straight back to the starting position on time, every time.
Weighing in at just over 100 pounds (45kg) the Boss Industrial 5-Ton Electric Log Splitter is easily portable and small enough to fit in most vehicles for transportation.
Don’t let its small size put you off in terms of performance—it still packs a punch, splitting up to 20.5-inch length and 10-inch width with it’s powerful 5 ton splitting force.
See the latest prices and and read reviews on Amazon.com
Pros
Given the size of the unit it allows you to split logs into small chunks, ideal for pot belly fires or small cabin log fires. Often using an axe to split down to small sizes can be time consuming and more effort than its worth. The Boss Industrial 5-Ton Splitter is the perfect size for the job.
Manufacturers don’t always put a lot of thought into the design of the type of wheels that accompany splitting units, often ending up with limited maneuverability. This isn’t the case with the “Boss”. This splitter is in-built with durable, high quality rubber wheels so you wont have to worry about how you will move it from location to location.
Other machines offer a safety feature of a two hand operation. It’s good in theory but often slows down operating time. Sometimes a big enough safety feature is to use common sense and stay within the operating zone behind the unit. You’ll power through with the simplicity of a one handed operating system with the “Boss”.
The extensive owner’s manual means you wont be searching elsewhere for basic operating instructions and troubleshooting problems. Boss-Industrial have even gone so far as to include a diagram breaking down every last nut and bolt to be found in the unit. We find with some other models, they are only accompanied with the most basic of operating manuals which only leads to frustration when you cant find the answers to simple troubleshooting.
Cons
As this is only a small unit, it will struggle to get through knotted and gnarly logs, but no more than you would expect. It just isn’t built for those kind of jobs, but then again you probably wouldn’t look to purchase a small model due to the obvious limitations in this area. The ram is also pretty small. If logs aren’t cut straight they might end up coming off the rail, which if you’re not paying attention can end up being dangerous. You want a good pair of steel caps just in case.
Boss Industrial 5-Ton Electric Log Splitter Features:
- 5 ton splitting force produced from 1.8 HP electric motor
- Durable 6-inch steel wedge
- Easy one handed operation
- Can split logs up to 20-inches in length and up to 10-inches in diameter
- Small and light make it portable; fits in the trunk of most cars
- Automatic ram return makes splitting faster
- Easy push start button electronic for quick starts
- Comes fully assembled and ready to use
- Horizontal splitting position
- 1300W power output
- Dimensions: 38 x 10 x 18 inches
- 14 second cycle time (9 sec feed/5 sec retract)
- 104 pounds in weight
- Maximum log length 20.5”/10” width
- Dimensions: 38 x 10 x 18 inches
- 3.8L oil capacity
Using The Log Splitter
As the unit will arrive fully assembled, you can have it up and running within five minutes of it being received off the freight truck. Remove the splitter from the box and screw the control handle lever into the handle bracket. Have a quick check over to make sure all the nuts, bolts and hydraulic fittings are tightened. Ensure you have your standard safety gear, protective glasses, gloves and steel caps.
You’ll most likely use an extension cord, locate the nearest power point to where you have the splitter set up. Loosen the hydraulic vent valve. This is the most important part when setting up. Also ensuring it’s closed back off if you plan on moving the machine around (to prevent spillage of hydraulic oil) and certainly make sure it’s closed once you’ve finished the job. Block the wheels to prevent the splitter moving while in operation. Press the power button and place the log firmly against one of the wedges. Simply move the handle down in order to split the log and release the handle once split. The ram will automatically return ready for the next log. Make sure you keep anything or anyone away from the sides of the splitter to prevent damage or injury. The hydraulic fluid will need to be changed after every 100 hours of use.
Top highlights of the machine:
- 14 second cycle time
- Tough design, high quality rubber wheels
- Push button electric start
- Simple one hand operation
The Bottom Line: Boss Industrial 5-Ton Electric Log Splitter
The Boss Industrial 5-Ton Electric Log Splitter is lightweight, durable and most importantly holds enough power to provide an excellent performance. This machine is best suited for the seasoned splitters who want to have a unit on hand to keep wood stocks steady for the cooler months.
The one handed operation makes it beyond easy to use and much kinder on your back.
Being an electric splitter its handy and clean enough to use in the garage or under the patio so you don’t have to brave the freezing winter temperatures outside. You won’t need to worry about oil spillage or toxic fumes. The engine is quiet compared to the gas units so it wont disrupt the entire household or your neighbors.
Electric Log Splitter Buyers Guide
Pros of Electric Log Splitters
- Powerful and quiet. Electric log splitters produce high splitting force using an electric engine, which means quiet working conditions and no fumes.
- Easy cold starts. With an electric engine you will always have easy cold starts and won’t have to worry about pull-starts on a cold morning.
- Plug it in and go! Electric log splitters are great when used near a power source and you won’t have to rely on a gas supply.
- Work inside out of the cold. Electric log splitters can be used inside such a garage or basement during cold weather.
- Cheaper than gas powered units. Electric log splitters are less expensive than larger and more powerful gas powered units.
- Portable and easy to move. Generally electric log splitter are lighter than gas powered models, this makes them easier to move around. On the other hand most units are not towable.
- Regular less regular maintenance. Unlike gas powered units, you won’t have to worry about oil changes, gas supply, spark plug replacements, and air filter changes.
Cons of Electric Log Splitters
- Cannot be used remotely outdoors. Due to the need of a power source electric log splitters cannot be used in remote locations on your property or forest.
- Less powerful than gas powered log splitters.
- Splitting positions. Most electric models are only capable of splitting logs in the horizontal position which means less flexibility when splitting larger logs
- Not towable. Most electric models are smaller and lighter than gas powered units and cannot be towed behind a truck or ATV for transport or moving around.
Who Should Buy a Electric Log Splitter?
Electric log splitters is a great way to save time and energy when splitting wood close to your house. By having the right splitter for the job you can quickly split any size pile of wood and eliminate the hard work of hand splitting with an axe.
Hand splitting is very labor intensive and hard on the body and once you’ve tried an electric or gas powered log splitter you’ll never go back. Splitting a cord or more is easy with an electric log splitter and owning one will payback dividends year and year when cutting firewood.
Electric log splitters are simple and easy to operate and maintain. Unlike gas log splitters there is very little maintenance. All you need is a power source and you can plug in the unit and start splitting. Having an electric motor makes things much simpler as far as up-keep and maintenance goes.
Choosing the right sized electric log splitter means you’ll be able to cut the wood you want with ease. If you typically split harder woods and logs that have knots and twisted grains then you will want a machine with more power. This will insure you don’t get jammed up or slowed down with tough pieces of wood.
I’ve compiled reviews of the 10 best electric log splitters available on the market below. Also, be sure to check out the comparison guide for a side-by-side comparison of the top electic log splitter models.