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Editor choice Best Log Splitter Reviews 2020

Last updated on: April 2nd, 2020

Finding the best log splitter can be a daunting process. The variety of options makes it difficult to choose, so we compiled a list of the ten best log splitters currently available.

In this overview, we will introduce you to the best log splitters in 2020. We have rated each best log splitter regarding our researchers, customer feedbacks, and overall utility.

Top 10 Log Splitters Comparison Table

Best Log Splitter Reviews 2020

Yardmax has hit the jackpot for high-powered, heavy-duty log splitters.

This log splitter has a massive engine, which provides the user with four choices for a force.

The cylinder is supported on two sides to enable the wood splitter to handle large logs, and to give the machine more stability when it is in use.

This manufacturer has changed the design of log splitters.The patents are pending for Yardmax’s innovations. Instead of the standard I-beam setup, Yardmax has developed a U-shaped beam.

This gives this best log splitter significantly more strength than the original design.

It also has a wedge that can cut four ways, which not many other best log splitters have.

Get more information about Yardmax 25 ton log splitter on Amazon.com

PROS: Has a 208cc engine from Briggs and Stratton

Can be used vertically and horizontally

Offers a 4-way wedge

Stronger structural design than most models

Available in four options for tons of force

The cylinder is supported on two sides

CONS: It is extremely heavy

Get all details about Yardmax log splitter at Amazon.com

What we think about Yardmax YU2566 25 Ton Full Beam Gas Log Splitter:

Features 95 %

Price 90 %

User Rating 95 %

Our Overall Score 94 %

Verdict Although this best log splitter is on wheels, the smallest option weighs in at 517 pounds. This makes it more difficult to move than other splitters. However, once it is in place you’ll find that it is more than capable of handling both personal and commercial jobs. The weight of the log splitter may also impact delivery. Whichever company is delivering it may not be able to get it to your front door. Check current price of this 25 ton log splitter on Amazon.com

The Sun Joe Logger can handle logs up to eight inches wide, which makes it perfect for medium-sized projects.

Each piece is made from steel and has a two-year warranty. There are two speeds to choose from, and the attached cradle will catch the completed pieces.

Since this is a manual splitter, you don’t need to attach it to a power supply. The dual levers give you the option for high or low pressure, depending on what kind of wood you are working with.

The two-year warranty covers the whole product, so if something does go wrong you’re covered.

Get more information about this hydraulic log splitter on Amazon.com

PROS: Can cut logs up to 8 inches wide

Has a hydraulic ram

Is equipped with a cradle for cut logs

Comes with a two-year warranty

Is made from steel

Has two speeds

CONS: Hydraulic ram won’t reach further than eighteen inches

Get all details about this manual hydraulic log splitter at Amazon.com

What we think about Sun Joe LJ10M Logger:

Features 89 %

Price 94 %

User Rating 93 %

Our Overall Score 92 %

Verdict Make sure your rounds are precisely cut to a maximum of eighteen inches. This splitter won’t be able to split the entire log if it is longer. For rounds that are longer than the maximum, users will need to shorten them by hand before the splitter will be able to cut them. Check current price of this hydraulic wood splitter on Amazon.com

Kindling Cracker is the perfect firewood splitter for people who camp regularly or who heat their homes with firewood.

Log splitters will cut the full piece of wood, but they don’t have the capability of creating kindling. This one-piece tool has solved that problem.

All you have to do is insert a piece of wood and tap it with a blunt object to cut it.

There are no sharp blades or moving parts so it is safe for children to use, and it is made from one solid piece of cast iron so you don’t need to worry about it breaking.

Also, there is basically nothing you have to do to keep it in working order. Simply brush it off after use to remove the dust.

Get more information about this Kindling Splitter on Amazon.com

PROS: No sharp blade

Made from cast iron

Required very little maintenance

Has a five-year warranty

CONS: Requires the user to also have a blunt object to use this tool

Get all details about manual wood splitters at Amazon.com

What we think about Kindling Cracker Firewood Kindling Splitter:

Features 84 %

Price 96 %

User Rating 94 %

Our Overall Score 91 %

Verdict Anybody who relies on firewood will find that this tool makes their lives easier. Although you do need to have an additional blunt object such as a hammer to use this tool, it is worth it. It is so easy to use, in a pinch you can substitute the blunt object for another piece of wood. Since it is so durable, you probably won’t need the warranty, but you are covered for five years just in case. Check current price of this hand log splitter on Amazon.com

Boss Industrial has taken an easy-to-use design and made it even easier.

This small log splitter can be used with only one hand, making it one of the simplest tools on the market. The ram is set to return automatically, so the user doesn’t have to reset the log spliter after every log. This cuts down on how long it will take you to get through your wood pile.

Even better, this electric splitter can be used indoors. Since it doesn’t produce emissions or exhaust, you can safely plug it into a standard amp and run it in a shed or garage. If you only use it residentially – as opposed to commercially – it comes with a full two-year warranty.

Unfortunately, this wood spliter can only be used when it is standing horizontally. However, it is lightweight and easy to maneuver. It can also be attached to an extension cord to increase the reach of the cord.

Get more information about 7 ton electric log splitter on Amazon.com

PROS: Has 7 tons of splitting force

Can be used with one hand

Ram returns automatically

Has a two-year warranty

Can be used indoors

Runs on 13.5 amps

CONS: Cannot be used vertically

Get all details about electric log splitter at Amazon.com

What we think about Boss Industrial ES7T20 Electric Log Splitter:

Features 92 %

Price 90 %

User Rating 93 %

Our Overall Score 92 %

Verdict This electric log splitter is ideal for anybody who wants a splitter that is incredibly easy to use. Whether you are new to using a log splitter or have had trouble with complex log splitters in the past, this log spliter can be used with very little effort. Due to the weight, this splitter cannot be used vertically. Fortunately, the auto-return ram makes it easier to use on large logs than log spliters that need to be reset by hand. Check current price of best electric wood splitter on Amazon.com

This electric splitter from Timber Champ will get your workload finished in no time. The 2.5 HP motor can make short work of logs up to twenty inches. Since it works on about 12 amps, you can run it on your regular electricity supply.

Timber Champ designed this kinetic log splitter to be incredibly efficient and to be faster than any other option.

The cycle time is only two seconds, which is significantly speedier than the other models available. It will split your rounds faster than you can load them. Also, the tires are flat-proof, so you never need to replace them.

Get more information about Timber Champ Log Splitter on Amazon.com

PROS: Is equipped with a 2.5 HP motor

Has a log cradle built in

Cycle time is only two seconds

Can handle logs up to 20 inches

Tires are flat-proof

Operates on 1300 watts

CONS: Offers a one-year warranty, which is shorter than most

Get all details about this kinetic log splitter at Amazon.com

What we think about Timber Champ Log Splitter:

Features 92 %

Price 92 %

User Rating 92 %

Our Overall Score 92 %

Verdict This splitter is perfect for people who want get the job done fast. The combination of a short cycle time and a strong motor means you can split a high volume of logs in a small amount of time. It comes with an attached log cradle, which will cut down on the amount of time you spend carrying the completed logs. Unfortunately, the warranty is only one year. This is about half the time of most other options. Check current price of this best kinetic wood splitter on Amazon.com

Dirty Hand Tools developed this splitter to be able to manage large logs. It can handle several types of wood without trouble whether you set it up horizontally or vertically.

The Kohler engine is equipped with a pull start, so you can easily turn the log spitter on and off.

Once your split is done, the ram automatically returns to the starting position. Altogether, a split will take just over ten seconds.

You can also tow it to different locations. Dirty Hand Tools log splitter comes with safety chains and is durable enough to be towed on the road.

Get more information about this 22 ton log splitter on Amazon.com

PROS: 196cc engine from Kohler

Can be used vertically or horizontally

Has a pull start

Can easily handle several types of wood

Ten-second cycle with auto return

Is easy to tow

CONS: User assembly required- Hydraulic fluid and oil sold separately

Get all details about best gas log splitters at Amazon.com

What we think about Dirty Hand Tools 100171 22 Ton:

Features 95 %

Price 85 %

User Rating 93 %

Our Overall Score 92 %

Verdict You will need to purchase oil and hydraulic fluid separately. Also, this splitter does not come assembled. The user must put it together and add the necessary supplies before it can be used. Once you have everything you need, the only ongoing maintenance is refilling the supplies. Check current price of the best gas log splitter 2016 on Amazon.com

If you’ve been looking for a premium log splitter that will work hard and get the job done quickly, this Honda log splitter from Northern Tool and Equipment is for you.

The high-powered engine and industrial strength parts ensure that this gas log splitter splits your logs efficiently.

The wedge is made from alloy steel, so you don’t have to worry about it breaking mid-split. Since this gas powered log splitter offers more than thirty tons of force, you can use it to take care of large rounds that other splitters can’t handle.

Also, the pivot is designed to level itself so you don’t need to be concerned about whether or not your split will be even if you switch between vertical and horizontal use.

The large reservoir for hydraulic oil means you can spend your time splitting, rather than filling up the machine.

This Northern Tool log splitter can also be towed at high speeds, so you can get it from one location to another in no time.

Get more information about NorthStar Deluxe Log Splitter on Amazon.com

PROS: Contains a Honda GX390 engine

Offers high-speed towing

Can be used vertically or horizontally

Has a premium filtration system

The I-beam is industrial strength

The wedge is made from alloy steel

Has a large reservoir for hydraulic oil

The pivot self-levels

Over 34 tons of force

CONS: Full assembly by the user is required

Get all details about best log splitter 2017 at Amazon.com

What we think about NorthStar Deluxe Log Splitter:

Features 96 %

Price 80 %

User Rating 95 %

Our Overall Score 90 %

Verdict This gas log splitter with Honda engine is ideal for someone who wants the wood splitter to do all the work. It is designed to take care of everything so all you have to do is put the wood in. The NorthStar Deluxe can handle your largest projects. The only downside to this wood splitter is that it does not come pre-assembled. Of course assembly time varies, but it may take a few hours depending on how handy you are and if you have all of the necessary tools readily available. Check current price of this best gas log splitter on Amazon.com

Champion Power Equipment has the ultimate heavy-duty log splitter. This 25-ton log splitter can hold up to 100 pounds and can split logs up to twenty-three inches. To get the most out of this Champion log splitter, it also comes with two log catchers. Despite the size of the logs, the entire cycle is only twelve seconds.

In addition to the splitting function, this piece of equipment is also capable of stripping the logs. This drastically cuts down on the amount of work you need to do before splitting the log.

If you want to take your on the road, you can do so without much work. It is designed to fit in the bed of almost any truck.

Alternatively, this splitter comes with a two-inch ball coupler for towing, and can even be attached to an ATV.

Get more information about Champion wood splitter on Amazon.com

PROS: Can be used either vertically or horizontally

Easy to tow up to 45 miles per hour

Can be attached to an ATV for towing

Has a 12-second cycle

Comes with two log catchers

Offers lifetime technical support

Has a 224cc engine

Can hold up to 100 pounds

Is equipped with a log stripper

CONS: Requires a lot of assembly

May need to purchase small parts separately

Get all details about Champion Power Equipment 100251 at Amazon.com

What we think about Champion Power Equipment 100251:

Features 95 %

Price 85 %

User Rating 93 %

Our Overall Score 92 %

Verdict Be prepared to do some work to get this wood spliter up and running. Once it is in one piece, you’ll find there is very little work for you to do to split the logs. You may need to purchase a few small pieces separately from a local hardware store, due to manufacturing errors in the pipe and end cap. Check current price of best log splitter 2017 on Amazon.com

This manual splitter can handle relatively small logs. It is best for people who want to split a lower volume of small logs. Since it is manual, it should not be used for extensive jobs.

The two handles offer two speeds to choose from, one high-pressure and one low. Each handle is made from durable steel and controls a 5-inch wedge.

The wood splitter is on wheels so it can easily be moved to different locations or for storage. The compact design means it won’t take up very much room when it is not in use.

Get more information about best manual log splitter on Amazon.com

PROS: Offers two speeds for the pump

Equipped with a log cradle

Wedge is five inches high

Has two handles, both made of steel

CONS: Cannot accommodate large logs

Get all details about manual log splitter at Amazon.com

What we think about Wel Bilt 67090 10-Ton Hydraulic Splitter:

Features 88 %

Price 93 %

User Rating 89 %

Our Overall Score 90 %

Verdict For small jobs, this manual splitter is a great option. This is a splitter you can use seasonally and store most of the time without having to buy oil or hydraulic fluid. However, if you need to split larger logs, this cheap log splitter won’t be able to help. It is an excellent choice for beginners as well as people who don’t split wood very often. Check current price of best manual wood splitter on Amazon.com

One of the biggest complaints about powered log splitters is that they are loud. While electric splitters don’t tend to be as noisy as their gas-powered counterparts, they can still annoy the neighbors.

Pow’R’Kraft has designed an electric splitter that is quiet when it is in use to take care of this issue.

The 1500 watt motor is not only quiet, it can be used on your regular household current. This cheap electric log splitter is equipped with a ground fault breaker for extra safety.

It is also made entirely from steel so the parts will last longer.

The manufacturer also recently upgraded their packaging to be more resistant to damage during shipping.

Get more information about this 4 ton electric log splitter on Amazon.com

PROS: 1500 watt motor

Can be used on household current

Made entirely of steel

Has a ground fault breaker

Is quiet when running

CONS: Must be used on the stand – Two handed operation only

Get all details about electric log splitters at Amazon.com

What we think about Pow’R’Kraft 65556 4-Ton 15 Amp Electric Log Splitter:

Features 92 %

Price 91 %

User Rating 92 %

Our Overall Score 92 %

Verdict This electric wood splitter will allow you to split logs all day without disturbing your neighbors. Be sure to use it on the stand and use two hands. Setting the splitter up on the ground will cause it to be uneven, and potentially dangerous. Also, the wood may slip when it is being fed into the splitter, so two hands are necessary. Check current price of the best electric log splitter on Amazon.com

What is a Log Splitter?

If you’re looking for a way to make your wood cutting chores easier, a log splitter is the way to go. Whether you’ve decided you want one or are still doing your research, knowing which kind of log splitter you want and how to use it is information you should have. Also get to know all log splitter benefits through our extensive guide.

We’ve got all the information you need to make an informed decision about what kind of splitter you should use, whether you should buy or rent it, and how to operate it safely.

A log splitter is a piece of equipment that is designed to cut rounds of wood into pieces that can be used in fireplaces. The sections of wood are inserted one at a time into the logsplitter. A metal wedge is then used to split the round into pieces that are a more manageable size.

Log splitters are often used by homeowners to cut firewood, either for a fireplace, to heat their entire home, or for use in a wood burning stove.They are also popular tools for people that go camping on a regular basis.

High-volume log splitters are also used commercially in various types of jobs. By using a log splitter, workers are able to drastically cut down on the amount of work required to cut the wood.

Types of Log Splitters

There are three types of log splitters. Which one you choose will depend on the volume of wood you want to cut, how big the rounds are, and how often you intend to use it.

Manual Log Splitters

Manual log splitters are the least powerful option and can manage rounds that are approximately six inches in diameter. Most manual splitters operate with about 4 tons of pressure.

This type of splitter is operated by hand. Recently, manufacturers have designed manual splitters that are operated with a foot pedal. Regardless of the specific type, any manual log splitter will be smaller and lighter than a powered option.

Electric Log Splitters

Electric splitters are the mid-range option. They can cut a round that is 12 inches across, and use about 10 to 15 tons of pressure.

This type of splitter is operated by plugging it into an outlet and maneuvering the piece that does the cutting by pressing a button or by pulling a handle. These types of splitters are larger than manual splitters, and take up a bit more room.

Gas Powered Splitters

Gas powered splitters are the most powerful option and can split a 24-inch log. This type of splitter also uses the most pressure. Depending on the model, your gas-powered splitter could use between 20 and thirty tons of pressure.

These wood splitters are powered using gasoline, and as a result, they create exhaust when they are in use.

Log splitters are incredibly simple machines. Using a log splitter safely is easy to do, and requires very little work on the part of the user. Exactly how the splitter works depends on the type of machine you have.

Before you can split your logs, make sure they are cut down into sections – called rounds – that will fit into the splitter. As a general rule, the more power a log splitter has, the larger round it can handle.

Once you have the rounds, select one from the pile. Insert it into the machine with the flat, cut end facing the wedge. On manual splitters, there is a jack you must tighten when the log is in place. This prevents the log from falling out while you are splitting it.

To cut it, manually move the wedge into the end of the log and all the way through to the other end. Reverse this motion and loosen the jack to remove the cut log.

For powered machines, you don’t need to tighten a jack. Simply feed the log into the machine, and remove the cut pieces.

Safety Tips for Using a Log Splitter

As with any piece of equipment, using a log splitter has the potential for injury. To prevent an accident, always do everything you can be safe while using your log splitter.

Safely using a log splitter starts with the setup. Log splitters must be set up on flat ground. If the splitter is set up on uneven ground it may tip when the wedge moves. You can set up the splitter on grass or sod as long as the ground underneath is flat. Alternatively, splitters can be set up on paved surfaces like the driveway.

If you are setting up your splitter on your lawn, make sure the ground is dry. It is easy to slip on wet grass, which could cause serious injury if you land on the splitter. Never use an electric splitter on wet ground – the cord that leads from the machine to the plugin could start a fire.

Keeping yourself safe also includes what you wear, and what you don’t. Any time you use your splitter, make sure you are wearing flat, closed-toe shoes or boots.

This will protect your feet if you drop something, and make it less likely that you will trip. Also, wear protective eyewear like goggles. As the rounds are cut, small wood chips will fly off the splitter. Goggles will stop them from cutting your eye. As for what you shouldn’t wear, avoid jewelry. It may get caught in the splitter. The same goes for loose sleeves.

Lastly, only have one person operating the machine at a time. Having more than one person creates confusion and the potential for mistakes. Any miscommunication can have terrible consequences.

Should I Rent or Buy a Log Splitter?

Whether you should rent or purchase a log splitter from log splitter advisor depends on several factors.

1 – How much you will use it.

How often you intend to use your splitter is a major factor when deciding whether to buy or rent. This is because over time, the upfront cost of purchasing a log splitter decreases. The more you use it, the less it costs per use.

On the other hand, if you only plan on using the log splitter once or twice per season, you may be better off renting. Purchasing a piece of equipment is a good investment if you can get your money’s worth, but you won’t find the same value in buying something you only use a couple times.

Renting a log splitter is also the best option if you need the equipment for a one-time job, such as clearing part of your yard or making firewood for camping. Since you don’t plan on using the splitter later on down the road, paying a one-time fee to rent the log splitter will cost you less than buying the splitter.

2 – What your budget is.

Conversely, if your budget is tight but you’ll use the splitter several times per year, in the long run, you will spend less if you purchase the machine. Renting a splitter multiple times per year will quickly add up.

3 – What you will use it for.

The kind of job you want to get done definitely impacts whether or not you should rent or buy a log splitter. Ongoing jobs like heating your home through the winter are the kind of thing you should purchase a splitter for. Also, if you have a high volume of wood to cut you may want to purchase the splitter.

There are some kinds of jobs that are better suited for a rental. If it is a one-time job, a rental is the better option. As well, if you only have a small amount of wood to cut you can save yourself some money by renting a manual splitter. This type of splitter tends to be less expensive than powered splitters, and you won’t have to buy fuel or oil.

4 – If you have room to store it.

When your log splitter isn’t in use, it needs to go somewhere. Leaving it outside is not an option since the weather will damage the machine and render it useless. Ideally, your log splitter should be kept covered in a garage or shed to keep it clean and in the best condition possible.

Manual splitters take up the least amount of room, while electric and gas-powered versions are much bulkier. If you have sufficient space to properly store a log splitter, it may be worth purchasing one. However, if you are short on space, renting a log splitter is the better choice.

5 – If you know someone else who could use it.

If you have friends, family members, or neighbors who also split their own wood, consider purchasing a log splitter. This gives you the opportunity to rent it out to other people who need it. By renting out your log splitter for a price lower than the stores, you can ensure you’ll earn back some of the money you spend on the equipment.

Also, whoever you rent it to will likely rent it again if your prices are reasonable and you keep the machine in good condition.