10 Best Electric Log Splitters Reviews and Buying Guide

The classic swing-with-an-axe to chop down a tree is a solid way to get the wood that you desire, but will take way too long, and way too much energy to get it as fast as you’d like it.

That’s where the 6.5-Ton Electric Log Splitter with Stand comes into play. It’s our top pick because of its motor that can crush thousands of pounds of wood quickly, effective transportation features, and its efficient power source!

Although we have our top choice, there are other log-splitting options that are available to you; and with that being said, continue reading to learn more about the best electric log splitters that we have to offer.

10 Best Electric Log Splitters Reviews

1. 6.5-Ton Electric Log Splitter with Stand

When you have a heavy log that needs to be dealt with properly, look no further than the WEN Electric Log Splitter.

Let’s start with the fact that it has a 6.5 tons of power; giving you the ability to smoothly cut through thick, medium-sized tree trunks. The cradle can be elevated 34 inches off of the ground, or you can assemble the wheels on the body!

It uses a strong 15-amp motor to split wood that is up to 10 inches in diameter and 20 ½ inches in length.

Also featured in this awesome electric log splitter is a 14.75 inch cylinder stroke, 16 square inch push plate, a 5 inch wedge to assist you in the final attempt of a full cut, and a 20 second cycle time.

Pros:

Awesome maneuverability.
Simple instructions and easy to use.
Great value for money.
Wheels and stand are included.
Effective on various types of wood.

Cons:

Slower cycle time.
Wheels may seem delicate.

2. Southland Outdoor Power Equipment SELS60 6 Ton Electric Log Splitter, Red

This red and sleek machine packs some power for its efficient size; the Southland Outdoor Power Equipment SELS60 Electric Log Splitter has the capacity to effectively take care of your logging needs.

This two-handed machine features a powerful 1.75, alongside a 15 amp induction motor; making cutting and splitting more effortless with many different kinds of wood, with 6 tons of power.

A great feature of this electric splitter is its essence of safety, seeing that it’s more efficient than an axe and maul.

There’s a sturdy 5” steel wedge that will split logs fast and with ease, as well as an integrated stroke limiter, which reduces the cycle time for shorter logs, meaning more log splitting for you.

Pros:

Does very well with cords.
Very easy to operate.
Simple assembly.
Splits logs quickly and smoothly.

Cons:

Ram may need routine maintenance.
Splitter may seem low-leveled.
Sensitive power switch.

3. Boss Industrial ES7T20 Electric Log Splitter, 7-Ton

With quality and design in mind, take advantage of the Boss Industrial ES7T20 Electric Log Splitter. It’s one of the Top Rated Electric Log Splitters that delivers specialized technology.

It has the capability to handle small and mid-size jobs, and even a few big ones. This device uses a strong 2 HP electric motor to apply as much as 7 tons of splitting force; and since it’s electric, it won’t emit fumes or harmful emissions.

The front handle is an attribute that can be used to maneuver the splitter with ease, while allowing you to utilize a one-handed operation approach.

The special sauce to the Boss Electric Log Splitter is its patented hydraulic system; giving you more power behind each split, with a personal touch of craftsmanship.

Pros:

Adequately powerful engine and split force.
Patented hydraulic system.
Runs on house current at 110 volts.
Produces clean cuts.

Cons:

Splitting wedge may seem short.
Ram takes some time to reset.
Mobility may seem limited.

4. Sun Joe LJ10M 10-Ton Hydraulic Log Splitter, Green

Lugging around a bunch of logs on tailgate can be a hassle; and cutting the logs while they are already on the ground could help out a lot, and the Sun Joe LJ10M Log Splitter is up for the job.

The manually operated 2-speed pump is how you make this splitter come alive, and it has the capacity to rack up the power of 10 tons of split force, up to 18 inches long and 8 inches wide.

It’s made of durable steel construction for trustworthy functioning, and designed for outdoor performance.

This splitter also contains many features that will aide in the logging process; for example, with the simple turn of a knob, the ram-return spring will quickly reset itself, and the longer handles give you maximum leverage.

Pros:

Longer handles for easy functioning.
Quick reset of the ram spring.
Effective splitting functioning.

Cons:

Requires bending to place the log.
Limited size range.
Pumps may require routine maintenance.

5. YARDMAX YS0552 5 Ton Electric Log Splitter, Stand, Log Tray

The YARDMAX YS0552 Electric Log Splitter will give you a clean cut each time, with up to 5 tons of RAM force to get the job done fast.

Its electric motors are engineered and designed with functionality and precision in mind. Not only is it made to function properly, but it can also be used indoors during those cold months.

It has a log capacity of 20 ½ inches in length and 10 inches in diameter, with an adequate cylinder cycle time of 16 seconds. This two-handed operation system also contains a 7 inch wheel diameter so that the machine can be portable.

One of the best parts is that there is minimal assembly; simply put the splitter on the stand, and attach the wheels, and you’re good to start splitting!

Pros:

Included stand and wheels.
Decent log capacity.
Efficient stroke limiter.
Good value for price.

Cons:

Cycle time could be shorter.
Wheels may seem flimsy or too lightweight.

6. Pow’ R’ Kraft 65556 4-Ton 15 Amp Electric Log Splitter

Getting logging jobs completed simply with an axe can be a long haul; try using the Pow’ R’ Kraft 65556 Electric Log Splitter instead.

It has a standard, and dependable 1,500 watt electric motor that thankfully runs on regular household current; so it’s just as simple as plugging the cord into the outlet!

The log capacity for this personal piece of machinery can split a lo up to 20 inches long and 10 inches in diameter; or 12 inches for most woods.

A special feature about the Pow’ R’ Kraft Log Splitter is the durability. It takes pride in its all-steel construction, which will provide itself with a longer working life.

Did I mention that it delivers 4 tons of RAM splitting force? So getting those small do-it-yourself projects done will no longer be a problem with this log splitter.

Pros:

Sturdy and durable design.
Works with standard home electrical current.
Long-lasting worklife.

Cons:

Longer than average cycle time.
Smaller amount of split pressure.
Limited log capacity.

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

With a strong essence of contemporary and modern style, the Powerhouse Electric Hydraulic Horizontal Log Splitter contains the potential to be an up-and-coming contender.

First off, it offers you a whopping 9 tons of force behind every split, which means more log cutting, and more performance.

Since it’s electric, there are no fumes, and operates with little-to-no noise; meaning less distractions while you’re concentrating.

It also comes in several colors, serving you functionality, versatility, and style; and it also delivers an increased torque up to 45%, thanks to its patented hydraulic RAM design.

Pros:

Lots of split force power.
Effective RAM system and cutting.
Great torque increase.
Easy to use.

Cons:

Have to turn off and on the machine to reset the splitter.
Two-hand operations seems to lack efficiency.
Questionable functionality when it comes to heavy-duty split jobs.

8. Sun Joe LJ602E 5-Ton 15-Amp Electric Log Splitter w/Hydraulic Ram, Green

The Sun Joe LJ602E Electric Log Splitter is an modern-day log cutter that is meant to deliver simple and accurate splits.

It’s a lightweight splitter, weighing in at about 93 pounds, that does pretty well with home projects or light-duty usage.

The 15 amp motor has a generating force of 5 tons, which has a great capability of splitting small-to-standard size firewood log that measures around 10 inches in diameter, and 20 ½ inches in length.

And yes, you’ll be able to move it around with the included 6 inch wheels that are already attached to the electric log splitter for your convenience of getting straight to work, and gives you maximum opportunity to easily change your work area.

Pros:

Wheels are included.
Does well with personal log-splitting projects.
Lightweight and easy to maneuver.

Cons:

Log capacity is limited.
Really close to the ground.
May develop a functional issue in extremely cold weather.

9. Earthquake W1200 Compact 5-Ton Electric Log Wood Splitter, 5 Year Warranty

Lightweight, portable, with potential strength, the Earthquake W1200 Electric Log Wood Splitter presents with a workable design and standard attributes.

The log capacity for this splitter is about 20 inches in maximum log length, with a 10 inch diameter cap; this machine also has a cycle time of 22 seconds.

Due to its copper motor winding, it can deliver you constant splitting force of 5 tons with precision and as much accuracy as it will muster.

Of course, no gas is required, reduces harmful fumes; and all it takes to get it started is a simple plug-in to any home outlet, and a flip of the switch!

One of the best features and benefits about the Earthquake W1200 is its warranty: a 5 year residential coverage, along with 90 day commercial warranty!

Pros:

Great warranty length.
Functional design.
Easy to use.

Cons:

The stroke amount is short.
Functions decrease in very cold weather.
Strict limitation on log capacity dimensions.

10. PowerSmart PS90 6-Ton 15 Amp Electric Log Splitter, Red, Black

Make your logging duties easier by using the PowerSmart Electric Log Splitter.

It’s a great choice for home project completion, and small wood commercial exchanges. This device uses a standard and strong 1.75 HP, 15 amp induction motor that has the ability to generate approximately 6 tons of split power force.

This attribute will give you the opportunity to master the cutting of cords measuring 10 inches in diameter and 21 inches in length. It’s cycle time is around 20 seconds, which gives the machine ample time to reset properly.

No fumes or chemicals to worry about, when compared to a gas-powered splitters, and it can be used on the ground, or on a bench or truck bed.

Pros:

Wheels are included for efficient portability.
Adequate split force power.
Durable steel construction.
Does great at cutting soft and dry wood.

Cons:

Knots may mis-position some internal pieces.
Limited log capacity.
May have difficulty with cutting hardwood.

Things to Consider Before Buy

Advantages and Disadvantages

Having an electric log splitter can be one of the most efficient ways to handle the job of logging, or natural construction. The advantages of using an electric log splitter are:

No gas is necessary, so you can save money!
Relatively effortless.
Safer than using an axe, or sledgehammer with a wedge.
Less maintenance.
More environmentally friendly than gas-powered.

However, it isn’t perfect; some of its disadvantages are:

Requires an electric energy source.
Limited capacity.
Relatively slower cycle time.

When deciding on which splitter to choose, be sure to balance out these determinant factors to make the best decision.

Horizontal, Vertical, or Combo Splitters

There are great features to using a horizontal log splitter; they are great for cutting small logs at a fast rate. In addition, you can opt for a dual-action horizontal splitter, which will allow you to cut the logs from both sides.

Vertical splitters do an adequate job at cutting massive size logs, without you having to lift it into the splitter.

Now, there are also combo splitters than can serve both horizontal and vertical jobs.

With the combo, you can roll on a large log of wood, then raise the splitter into horizontal mode for cutting the chunks into smaller pieces!

Splitting Force

Splitting force, or tonnage, is the amount of power that is needed to cut through a log.

Tonnage and power go hand-and-hand: the higher the tonnage value, the higher amount of weight the electric splitter will be able to cut.

The average amount of tonnage usually ranges between 5 and 10 tons of power; and splitters even more powerful than that exist!

Splitting force is based on primary facts such as log length, log diameter, and the hardness of the log. The best way to determine tonnage value is to record the size and density of the log; then choose the splitter that fits within that range to save you money and effort.

Engine and Power

Electric log splitters are functionally the same as gas log splitter; the major difference is in the motor.

An electric log splitter will use an electric motor to power the hydraulics, versus an engine that requires combustible gas.

A cool feature about the electric engine system is that the plug can be inserted into the standard household outlet. Electric log splitters also deliver almost as much power as a gas-run splitters; approximately four to nine tons of force to be a bit more specific.

So when you need to cut some small or medium-sized logs, and electric splitter will more than be able to handle the job.

Log Length and Diameter

The length and diameter of a tree log are two of the most impactful factors for properly using an electric log splitter.

In general, its log capacity is meant for average-to-mid size logs. To be more specific, most electric splitters can handle tree logs that are 18 inches in diameter, and about 25 inches in length.

The diameter, and thickness of the log, are correlated to the length of it; and if it’s too thick, the log can disrupt the splitter functioning.

Which is why it’s best to stick to these dimensions, considering that a lot of electric log splitters have a split power value of no more than about 10 tons.

Cycle Time

The cycle time of an electric log splitter is expressed in the matter of seconds, and it’s the time that it takes for the log splitter’s ram to fully extend itself, then return to its starting position.

When searching for the cycle time, just know that the shorter the cycle time, the faster the splitter will cut through the log.

Electric log splitters can have a range of cycle time, between 5 and 20 seconds; which can either be an ample amount of time to cut a couple of logs within seconds, or a few logs within minutes.

Single-Handed or Double-Handed Operation

Single-handed electric log splitters will allow you to only use one hand to handle and cut the log appropriately.

They usually come in smaller sizes, so that the average logger can use it with ease and balance. In addition, single-handed operations frees up your other hand, which you can use for balance while cutting, or for utilizing.

Double-handed electric log splitters are good for both operational and safety reasons. When it comes to cut, you can put more weight and force behind blade for a denser cut; and with the stability of the two hands, safety while using the cutter enhances.

Log Capacity

The amount of weight that an electric log splitter can bear is the log capacity.

It has features that will allow for the blade to slide through the log with ease; but if the log is too thick, the blade will have a challenging time crossing through, which could slow down your process, or malfunction the splitter.

The average log capacity for an electric log splitter is between four and nine tons. This weight is adequate for medium-sized tree logs, and even small logs will work efficiently within the log splitter.

Size of Wood To Be Cut

Electric log splitters are notable for cutting smaller in diameter; so a wooden log that is under 24 inches will be you best bet when using and electric splitter.

Well-cured logs do very well within an electric log cutter simply because of the smoother and cleaner texture of the wood.

The dimension of the aforementioned wood, and any wooden log that you are considering cutting is around 10 to 12 inches in diameter. Some splitters can cut a little more, up to 15 inches, but that’s where it reaches its prime functionality.

Pressure

The major asset that determines the efficiency of cutting into a tree is the thickness of the trunk and branches; the thicker it is, the more pressure you will need to apply in order to make a successful split.

The average tree takes about 1,350 pounds of pressure to split; and electric cutter can get the job done. Typically, an electric log splitter can deliver between 2,000 and 3,000 pounds per square inch, or PSI.

With this amount of pressure, cutting a thick log into two pieces can be done with ease.

Warranty

Electric log splitters come with warranties, or particular plans put into place that will cover your electric splitter if something were to happen to it.

Most of the warranties are between 1 and 3 years, with the average being 1-2 years; you can even find a few that may have 5 year coverage plan!

The warranty protects your splitter, including, but not limited to, the internal parts, blade(s), engine, technological apparatuses, and any pieces associated with pressure and strength.

The warranty can be purchased along with the electric log splitter, and should be registered with the manufacturer as soon as you receive the proper information to do so.

Safety Tips

When you see that blade turning, it’s hard to resist moving closer to it; which is why there are awesome and effective safety tips to use while performing duties with an electric log splitters.

Here are a few just to get you started:

Only use the splitter during the day when there is ample light to see the blade.
Check to make sure the support beams are locked down before turning on the machine.
Refrain from using your leg to stabilize a log.
One log at a time will sustain the lifeline of the splitter.
If there is a jam, don’t remove the log with your hands; reverse the log to the starting position.

Final Thoughts

We’ve learned a lot about electric log splitter, haven’t we.

What I’ve come to realize is that splitting force is a powerful impact on the effectiveness of an electric log splitter.

Overall, they seem to get the job done more efficiently than gas-powered splitter, and are more environmentally friendly.

That’s why the WEN Electric Log Splitter was our best choice. It fits the category of doing a better-than-average job at applying tons of power, it has an adequate log capacity, and does well with bigger sized logs; all you need for a successful logging experience.

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Mike Zhang. Founder of FamilyLifeShare