Looking for the best log splitter at an affordable price? The following article will help you learn about the fast and the most efficient models that are presented on the market today. So, check out our log splitter reviews and compare the different types of this tool.
What is a log splitter?A log splitter is a machine used for splitting wooden logs into firewood. They are either powered through an electric motor, an engine, or through hydraulics. This helps to generate tons of force that easily splits the log into two.
The higher the tonnage, the longer, and wider logs it can split.
Best Log Splitter Reviews
To find the best log splitter for your needs we suggest you read our TOP-list with models for all kinds of domestic, commercial, or industrial purposes.
WEN 56207 Electric Log Splitter
Powerful Electric Motor
The WEN is equipped with a 15 amp 2.5 horsepower motor that enables you to split logs in seconds. It easily delivers over 13000 pounds of pressure to crack away at the hardest of logs. The motor includes a 20 second cycle time, a 14.75 inches cylinder stroke, a 5-inch wedge as well as a 16 square inch push plate.
Portability
This electric wood splitter includes a handle at the top as well as 5.5-inch diameter wheels to help you carry the equipment from one place to another. The wheels include never-flat tires. While the unit is heavy, its push handle makes it easy to transport it without lifting it.
Versatility
The Wen can easily split logs with a wide variety of sizes. It can handle logs up to 10 inches in diameter and 20.5 inches in length. Also included is a 34-inch stand that can help you elevate the machine to your desired height.
Easier to use
Since the model is electrically based, it does not involve any of the hassles found in gas powered splitters. You never have to worry about running out of fuel or about the room temperature or carburetors. Simply plug it in and start chopping.
Two-handed operation
The two-handed operation of the machine ensures the user remains safe. This makes it easier for novices to use the machine as well.
Pros
Cons
Bottom line
All in all, the WEN log splitter features many advantages, being an electric powered model.
Snow Joe Logger Joe LJ10M Hydraulic Log Splitter
Performance
The Logger Joe is hydraulically operated and makes no use of oil, gas or cords. Instead, it uses a dual speed pump that is operated manually as well as a powerful hydraulic ram to deliver 10 tons of force. This ensures you can easily split large logs however you want it. The hydraulic capacity is a sufficient 0.7 gallons.
Durability
One of the key advantages to the Loggers Joe is that it features a durable steel construction that grants sturdiness to the machine. It ensures the machine keeps on operating for years of rough use. Also included is a two-year warranty that ensures your machine has the longest life possible.
Versatility
The log splitter can be used to split a large range of log sizes. The high driving force ensures you can easily split logs up to 18 inches in length as well as up to 8 inches in diameter.
Portability
Also included are 2.48 inches wheels which make it easier to carry the unit around. The wood splitter also includes a built-in metal handle that helps you push the unit around to wherever you want it.
Ease of use
The best part about the Loggers Joe is that it involves no fuel or cords. This means you can use this machine practically anywhere. You don't need to check for availability of fuel or a power outlet. This makes it best suited for outdoor jobs.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Includes no cords or fuel
- Easy to transport around
- Delivers 10 tons of force
- Includes 2 years warranty
- Can cut varying sizes of logs
Cons
- Includes manual operation
- The log sizes are relatively less than other models
- Slow operation
- Heavyweight
Bottom line
The Loggers Joe might feature manual operation, however, it can be used in a wide variety of applications where fuel or an electrical outlet may not be available. It might have its share of cons, however, its versatility shines through.
Champion Gas Log Splitter
Powerful and reliable performance
The Champion is powered by a 196 cc Champion OHV gas engine that helps deliver the most efficient performance. It easily delivers 7 tons of force to split the logs. Also included is an auto return control valve and a quick 20 seconds cycle time. The maximum hydraulic capacity is about 1.3 gallons and it can deliver 154 gallons per minute. You might worry about the harmful emissions, however, they are compliant with all 50 states so, you can use it without worrying about damaging the environment.
Versatility
The Champion gas splitter is chemical resistant and can be used with water, salt water, wastewater, mild acids, and bases. This means you can use this machine in all sorts of climates and conditions. The machine can easily chop logs of up to 19.3 inches in length.
Low profile
This is the best log splitter when it comes to compactness and low profile. It measures merely 44.7 x 19.5 x 14 inches which are relatively compact for gas splitters. This makes it easier to load and unload and makes for space saving storage.
Portability
The Champion features a foldaway handle that you can use to push around the splitter as well as 10-inch wheels at the bottom that never go flat. You can transport it easily from your garage to your home whenever needed.
Durability
It is designed to be able to work in a large variety of conditions. The durable steel construction ensures the machine stays corrosion free. Also included is a 2-year limited warranty.
Pros
Cons
- Harder to set up
- Requires fuel
- Includes emissions
Bottom line
While this may be the best log splitter in the gas-powered type, it certainly cannot compete with the emission-free electric ones or the much more powerful hydraulic type. This is best suited for industrial or commercial uses.
YARDMAX YS0552 Electric Log Splitter
Powerful Motor
The Yardmax features a 15-ampere motor that can deliver 5 tons of RAM force to help you get the job done. The short cylinder cycle time of 16 seconds ensure quick operation. This might seem low when compared to other gas or hydraulic splitters, however, in electric splitters, this is as high as you can get.
Improved log capacity
The Yardmax can easily split logs up to 20.5 inches in length and 10 inches in diameter. It comes with a log tray where you can safely lay down all split logs.
Ease of use
The best part about the Yardmax is that it comes equipped with a stand which you can attach or remove according to your preferences. The attached stand lends 20 inches of height to the splitter, taking it from 19 inches to 39 inches. This creates a stable working surface right at the line of your sight for easier work.
Portability
Also included with the electric log splitter is a handle and 7-inch wheels which allow you to push it around wherever you want it. The company boasts of a lightweight design, however, ti easily weighs 100 lbs, which makes it the heaviest of all our log splitters.
Two-handed operation
To ensure maximum safety, the splitter requires you to use both hands to get the job done.
No assembly
No need of getting your tools out for assembling this machine. The machine comes mostly pre-assembled and you can get started with it right out of the box.
Pros
Cons
- Heavyweight
- Delivers relatively less power
Bottom line
The Yardmax Electric log splitter is an easy to use and efficient splitter that works well for domestic purposes. It includes many features such as a stroke limiter and log tray and cradle to ensure safety and efficiency.
Boss Industrial ES7T20 Electric Log Splitter
Efficient operation
The Boss Industrial features automatic ram return that allows you to minimize manual labor. It ensures the machine does more work than you. The machine can be operated with a single hand so you can easily multitask without worrying about safety.
Powerful Motor
The 2 horsepower motor can deliver 7 tons of splitting force to ensure all logs are cleanly split horizontally. The motor works under a hydraulic pressure of 3500 psi that allows for a much more powerful operation.
Maneuverability
The machine can be easily lugged around the house or the workshop as it includes a handle as well as 2 wheels.
Stability
The two side rails are built with durable steel that grants stability to the machine when in use. This ensures the log does not vibrate or move when operating. So, you can easily focus on cutting the log with one hand instead of keeping it steady.
Minimal assembly
The machine comes ready to use out of the box so you don't have to spend hours trying to assemble all the parts together.
Log capacity
The machine can easily cut a large variety of logs, up to 20.5 inches in length and 10.5 inches in diameter.
Easy to use
This can be easily deemed as one of the best electric log splitters as it is extremely easy to use. There are no hassles of having to refuel it or having to use two hands to operate it. Instead, just plug it in to start chopping.
Pros
Cons
- Heavyweight
- Has a small cord, up to 5.5 feet
Bottom line
The Boss Industrial is a powerful electric log splitter that delivers 7 tons of force to help you with larger home or work projects. Its main advantage is how easy it is to use and how well it works for most domestic purposes.
Manual Log Splitters
QUALITY CRAFT FOOT OPERATED LOG SPLITTER
This compact model is very lightweight weighing only 23 pounds so it can easily be transported from one place to the other. It can fold flat for easy transport and is intended to give great log part execution. This foot-operated wood splitter is an extraordinary choice if you were looking for a portable, power free and lightweight option.
Pros
- Affordable price
- Fold flats for portability
- Convenient foot operation
- Lightweight of about only 23 pounds
- The heavy splitting force of 1.5 tons pressure
- Power free log splitter
Cons
- Not quite fast
- Not good for larger logs and greater volume of wood
- Time-consuming
- It does require some human effort to operate
- Rubber feet are not stable
WOOD KINDLING SPLITTER HAND GRINDING BLADE
If you are looking to buy a portable and affordable wood splitter for normal sized pieces and dry woods, you need this handy machine tool kindling splitter.
Pros
- Minimizes risks and injuries to hands and fingers
- Requires less force than an ax
- Durable and robust splitting tool
- Affordable price
- Large and stable base
Cons
- It has a vast cutting edge that does not part little logs vertically straight
Electric vs Gas powered Splitters
Electric Log Splitter
Electric Log splitters are the most popular types of log splitters because they are easier to use and do not involve many of the hassles in the gas type. They utilize an electric motor that delivers force to the machine.
These models are much lighter and portable. They can be used on the ground or with a stand. They can be used indoors, outdoors or anywhere if there is an electrical outlet. They are much more cost-effective as they do not require a constant supply of fuel. They require much less maintenance.
The average force they can exert is from 4- 10 tons. Furthermore, they feature the noiseless operation.
However, they are only intended for residential use and aren't intended for larger diameter logs, usually used for 12'' in diameter and 20'' in length. They require a constant source of power. They deliver much less power than their gas counterparts. You cannot use them outside of the extension cord range.
Gas Log Splitter
Gas log splitters are much more powerful than the electrical counterparts. They do not require a power outlet and so can be used anywhere you like. They use an engine that needs either oil or gas to be powered. They can easily accept larger diameter logs.
They minimize manual labor to a large degree just like the electrical ones. They are mostly used for commercial purposes or for larger projects. They can easily provide 8-15 tons and even up to 34 tons of driving force to easily split the hardest of logs.
However, they tend to be more expensive as they are often larger. They can cost from $1000 to $3000. They require regular maintenance such as oil change, air filter changes and parts replacement. Due to engine emissions, it cannot be used indoors. They are noisy and disturb the areas around you. They are much heavier and thus are harder to transport.
Hydraulic vs Kinetic Log Splitters
Hydraulic Log Splitter
Hydraulic Log Splitters are mainly used for domestic purposes to split logs for firewood. The main benefit is that they have the highest tonnage in the market and do not require any fuel. They can split larger logs especially hardwoods. Use a hydraulic system and require you to manually operate the system to help split the logs.
However, they are slower per cycle. They also require much more maintenance.
Kinetic Log Splitter
Kinetic Log Splitters use a flywheel to store energy from the engine and then use it all in one go to split the logs. The main advantage is that the kinetic log splitter is much faster as it does not repeat the cycle again and again. It split the log clean in one go. The average time per cycle for some of the best kinetic log splitter is astoundingly 2 seconds.
These do not have tonnage ratings as they store the power before releasing it. They are much easier to maintain.
However, they are often bulky and much more expensive. Another drawback is that they do not deliver as much power and more suitable for smaller, softer wood.