The Best Electric Log Splitter For Making Great Cuts
- Boss Industrial Electric Log Splitter - Best Overall
- Sun Joe Hydraulic Log Splitter - Runner-Up
- Powerhouse XM-580 Electric Log Splitter - Honorable Mention
Log splitters come in several varieties, with differences in size, features, and price, making it tough for you to make a buying decision. Knowing how much power you want from your electric log splitter can make your decision-making process much faster and easier, and possibly cheaper too. This depends on the type of job you wish to perform with it. For example, if you need a log splitter only to perform a few simple jobs, you definitely don’t need a big one. Similarly, if you need one to prepare some fireplace wood, buying a bigger one with more power and speed is perhaps the better choice. In each category, there are still a ton of choices, but we have found the best electric log splitters in 2024 among all the clutter to make your choice much easier.
Here Are the Finest Electric Log Splitters of 2024
Boss Industrial Electric Log Splitter
– Best OverallThe electric motor on this log splitter is very powerful, with seven tons of splitting power. It’s convenient to use because you only need one hand to operate this machine and the front handle allows you to maneuver it easily. The hydraulic pressure is 3,500 psi and, unlike gas-powered splitters, this one does not emit any harmful fumes. Also, as there are no fumes, you can use this log splitter both indoors and outdoors.
Even if you want to cut wood that measures up to 22-inches in circumference and 16-inches in length, this machine experiences no issues at all. You would also appreciate the sturdy frame of this splitter, as it’s made with solid and durable materials. The wheels attached to this equipment are large and effectively prevent wobbling. Another good thing about using this electric splitter is there is almost no noise so the neighbors won’t get disturbed even if you are splitting wood the whole day. However, the cycle time between each split is quite long, and some users might find that a bit inconvenient.
- Easy storage due to its compact size
- Features integrated side rails that keep the log in position while splitting
- Very easy to move with its front handle
- Might not work well with maple wood due to its unique safety mechanism
Sun Joe Hydraulic Log Splitter
– Runner-UpThis log splitter is for cutting logs up to 18-inches long and 8-inches wide. It features a strong hydraulic ram which builds up a maximum driving force of ten tons, more than sufficient for many log-splitting jobs. There is a log cradle to keep the wood in place, ensuring greater precision. Also, the device is made with durable steel material and features wheels that make it very easy to move. It weighs around 87 lbs and has a manual operation.
It is very easy to store this log splitter compared to the gas and electric alternatives because you can fold and store this equipment anywhere. Its ease of use stems from its pumping action operating mechanism that does not require a lot of strength. A potential drawback of this equipment is it is designed to handle logs under 18-inches in length.
- Does not require any assembly
- Quick resets due to an efficient ram return spring
- Has long handles that offer maximum leverage to the user
- Handles are not comfortable, users might need gloves to operate
Powerhouse XM-580 Electric Log Splitter
– Honorable MentionThe Powerhouse XM-580 is an awesome splitter. It can split everything from small logs to ones that are two feet in diameter with this unit. This portable electric splitter has a high capacity and is durably constructed.
The reliable electric-powered operation of this log splitter is super convenient as you don’t require any gas to operate it. Due to its electric operation, this unit barely makes any noise, allowing you to operate it at any time of the day without disturbing the neighbors. Also, the splitter has a two-handed operation that ensures superior safety compared to many one-handed units available in the market.
- Has a portable design, built for indoor/outdoor use
- Extremely powerful splitter, has a horsepower of 4HP
- Solid steel construction that provides long-lasting durability
- Accompanying assembly manual is slightly confusing, might require some trial and error to put together
Best Electric Log Splitters Buying Guide
Options for Splitting Logs
One efficient way to cut down logs into smaller pieces is by using a log splitter. Chopping wood takes a huge amount of time and puts tremendous pressure on the shoulders and back. Using an electric log splitter can help significantly cut down your cutting time compared to the use of an ax or a hatchet.
The most common type of handheld log splitter is an ax. You must exercise caution when using an ax: wear safety goggles to protect your eyes, gloves to prevent blisters, and long pants and closed-toe shoes to keep from getting hit by chunks of wood. Use both hands and proper form, swinging the ax in a vertical motion to make your log splitting more efficient and easier. Axes are usually used to chop down a tree, but when used for splitting logs, it is better to tie down the log using some rope to keep it stable for more accurate results.
A hatchet is a smaller type of ax typically used for camping. It is a compact tool with multiple uses, such as clearing vegetation when camping or hiking. The main purpose of a hatchet is to chop logs into smaller pieces to be used as firewood or tent pegs. A hatchet may also be used to split logs into thin pieces.
Of course, to save time (and your back), an electric log splitter is a good replacement for your ax or hatchet. Electric log splitters are usually categorized by their pressure rating in tons–this indicates the force exerted by the machine during the splitting process, effectively measuring its ability to chop large pieces of wood.
Electric Log Splitter
These medium pressure rating electric log splitters need an electrical outlet to work. These log splitters usually have a low-noise operation and are considerably inexpensive. They’re movable as they come with wheels, allowing you to relocate them where needed. Usually, electric log splitters have a safety function to prevent accidents, which makes them a great choice for non-professionals.
Electric log splitters are powered by hydraulics. These wood splitters have several parts: an engine that provides the power for the machine, wherein the engine is attached to a hydraulic oil pump, which uses a stream of high-pressure hydraulic fluid running to a valve that activates the hydraulic cylinder. This hydraulic system creates the motion to split logs.
To witness how a log splitter works and to learn how to use one, watch this video from First Stop Rentals Ltd:
Things To Consider When Buying a Log Splitter
For an electric log splitter, consider the horsepower. There are many different types of wood, and popular brands usually prepare a chart identifying the best log splitter per type of wood. The higher the engine power rating, the higher the price, so make sure you consider how much wood you’ll be splitting. Also, make sure to consider its size and weight with respect to the user, as a large-sized heavy log splitter might not be suitable for some users. Also, it’s important to prepare a space to use the electric log splitter in your workshop or backyard with access to a power source, and ensure that the proper safety measures are in place.
It’s also important to think about whether you’ll need to move the electric log splitter. If yes, then an option with wheels will make it easier to transport. But, wood splitters without wheels might be more stable during operation.
The noise produced by electric log splitters should also be taken into consideration, especially if you live in a neighborhood that is rather quiet. Some people might be sensitive to loud noise and, in this case, an electric log splitter might be a good choice considering its rather noiseless operation.
The most important feature in choosing a log splitter is the safety control. Make sure there is a safety lock in place and regularly check the safety mechanisms to ensure it’s working properly.
People Also Asked
Log splitters can save you a lot of time because the job gets done in seconds. You are able to split wood with less effort compared to an ax or a hatchet. Also, using a log splitter is way safer than using an ax, as it has a mechanical operation that does not require a lot of motion on your part.
While a one-handed operation log splitter is more convenient to operate, log splitters that come with a two-handed operation are generally considered safer to use. So, if you know what you are doing, opting for a one-handed log splitter might be a better choice.
The amount of power you need in a log splitter correlates directly to the size of logs you want to split using it. Each log splitter specifies the maximum log dimensions it can process, so make sure you compare those with the logs you wish to split using it before making a buying decision.