Having some sort of log splitter is a must if you want to cut your logs into manageable size pieces to use as firewood. I haven’t seen too many people ripping logs apart with their bare hands! 😉 Log splitters are not just for professional or commercial use. Everyone who heats their home with firewood knows the value of a good log splitter.

In light of this, I have been doing a lot of research and comparing companies that sell log splitters in order to find the best one to use on our homestead. I have compiled a list of the 10 Best Log Splitters of 2020 by CATEGORY so that you can easily find the right fit for you and your needs. In this article I’ll share my research with you and provide a quick comparison chart at the end. I hope you find it helpful.

1. Champion 25-ton Log Splitter

Your Best ALL AROUND Log Splitter

This 25-ton log splitter is powerful, efficient, portable, and reliable. Champion Power Equipment has been around since 2003 and has earned its reputation for designing and engineering dependable and durable products. Their signature black and yellow design gives their products a clean and attractive look. Designed and engineered in the US they serve both North American and world markets.

Pros

• Cycle Time. Champion’s 25-ton log splitter is very efficient and doesn’t waste time. It’s 11-second cycle time enables you to move quickly through your firewood.
• Horizontal and Vertical Positions. You can easily and quickly change positions to split either horizontally or vertically. If you have very large rounds this makes the job easier on your back by simply changing the beam to a vertical position.
• Log Catchers. Champion includes log catchers with it’s 25-ton log splitter. This is a huge bonus that some companies don’t include with their models.
• Towable. It fits in most truck beds, but also has the option to tow it up to 45 mph on a 2-inch ball hitch.
• Accessibility. You can purchase this log splitter in many locations including Amazon and from your local Home Depot store.
  • Note: The log splitter linked to Amazon has a 12-second cycle time. It is a model sold both in Canada and the USA. Champion’s 25-ton log splitter sold in the USA only has an 11-second cycle time.
• Affordable. The price on Amazon for this log splitter is $1,510.00. I put it in the affordable category which I realize is relative to everyone’s individual budgets. Keep in mind when buying a log splitter the old saying, “buy cheap, buy twice.” Champion’s 25-ton log splitter is a quality machine, that will serve you a lifetime.
• User-Friendly Website. Neat and organized, you can easily find what you are looking for on their website. They even show you what products are available in the United States and Canada.
• Auto-Return. This feature saves you time! The wedge returns to its original position automatically, giving you both hands to prepare your next log.
• 2-Year Limited Warranty. Champion includes a 2-year limited warranty with free lifetime technical support.
• Customer Service. I have contacted Champion many times and their response time was great!

Cons

• Assembly. If you purchase this log splitter online you will most likely have some assembly to do when it arrives.
• Noise. Gas log splitters tend to be much louder than electric log splitters. It’s recommended to wear ear protection when operating this machine.

Maintenance Requirements

• Every 8 hours or daily check engine and hydraulic oil levels and clean around air intake and muffler.
• Change the oil after the first 5 hours of use.
• Every 50 hours or every season clean the air filter and change oil if operating under heavy load or in hot environments.
• Every 100 hours or every season:
  • Change oil
  • Clean/adjust spark plug
  • Check/adjust valve clearance
  • Clean spark arrestor
  • Clean fuel tank and filter
  • Change hydraulic oil
  • Change hydraulic oil filter

2. Swisher 22-ton Log Splitter

Your AMERICAN Made Log Splitter

Swisher has been around since 1945 and prides itself on producing power equipment that is American made. You can purchase this log splitter in many locations but they also offer factory direct sales from their factory in Missouri, which eliminates any middle man.

Pros

• Free Shipping. Both on Amazon and their own website they offer free shipping on their 22-ton log splitter.
• Towable. Includes a 2″ ball coupler which allows towing up to 45 MPH.
• Horizontal and Vertical Positions. This Swisher 22-ton log splitter allows you to split wood in either a vertical or horizontal position. In my opinion you need this feature especially if you are splitting very large rounds.
• Cycle Time. I put this as a pro because 13-seconds still falls on the faster side of cycle times for log splitters.
• Auto-Return. Very nice feature for a log splitter. Wedge returns to original position freeing both hands for preparing your next log.
• Accessibility. I debated whether to include this as a pro or a con because Swisher log splitters are a bit harder to find than some other brands like Champion. But you can buy this Swisher 22-ton log splitter on Amazon, which is a place most people buy from.

Cons

• Log Catcher. It does not include any log catchers and none are included as an additional purchase option. For me this is a con because log catchers prevent logs from falling on your feet and saves you from extra back work.
• Affordable. The cost of this log splitter is getting up there. Right now you’re gonna pay $1,949.95 on Amazon, but something to keep in mind is that it does include free shipping, which is a plus.
• Limited Warranty. For the hydraulic system they offer a 1 year warranty. For materials and workmanship there is a 3 year warranty.
• Noise. Ear protection is recommended when operating this log splitter. As mentioned above, gas log splitters tend to be much louder than electric log splitters.

Maintenance Requirements

• Always check the oil level of the hydraulic reservoir before operation.
• Change the hydraulic fluid in the reservoir after every 100 hours of operation.
• Completely drain the fuel tank prior to storage.
• Periodically check that all nuts, bolts, screws, clamps and fittings are tight and secure.

3. Boss Industrial 7-ton Electric Log Splitter

Your Best ELECTRIC Log Splitter

Boss Industrial has designed their electric log splitter with safety and portability in mind. This 7-ton log splitter is lightweight and because it has an electric motor it can be operated indoors or outside.

Pros

• Lightweight. It only weighs 117 pounds so it’s very easy to move around.
• Affordable. Depending on where you buy it you can find it for about $448.00. This puts this log splitter in the affordable category.
• Noise. Electric log splitters are typically much quieter than gas log splitters.
• Accessibility. You can purchase this Boss Industrial 7-ton log splitter on Amazon and at your local Home Depot.
• 2-Year Residential Warranty. Boss Industrial promises to repair or replace any part or a product that proves to be defective in workmanship or materials for a period of 2 years from the date of purchase for residential use.
• Auto-Return. Ram goes back to starting position once lever is released.
• 4-Way Cross Wedge. For an additional price you can purchase a 4-way cross wedge that slides on easily over the existing wedge. This allows more work to be done with less effort.
• Cycle Time. 14-second cycle time. Forward 9 seconds, return 6 seconds.
• Fully Assembled. Unlike with most gas log splitters this one comes preassembled and ready to use.

Cons

• Horizontal Only. You can only use this log splitter in a horizontal position.
• Short Legs. You either need to squat down to use this splitter or set it up on a table to use it in a standing position. For an additional price they do offer a log splitter stand.
• Electricity. Obviously this Boss Industrial 7-ton log splitter requires the use of electricity. This makes it difficult to use in a forest unless you plan on bringing a portable generator with you.

Maintenance Requirements

• Replace hydraulic oil every 100 hours of use.
• Periodically clean the machine using an oiled rag to prevent rust.

4. YARDMAX 25-ton Log Splitter

Your FASTEST Log Splitter

YARDMAX proclaims a “work-smarter and not harder” motto. They were established in 2015 and strive to meet the needs of both contractors and homeowners. Their 25-ton log splitter has a fast cycle time, built tough, and are heavy-duty.

Pros

• Cycle Time. The 9.7 second cycle time sets this machine apart from the rest. It’s fast and efficient.
• 4-Way Wedge. No need to spend extra money! The YARDMAX 25-ton log splitter includes the 4-way wedge. Very cool!
• Horizontal and Vertical Positions. It’s very versatile and easily moves from horizontal to vertical positions for efficient splitting.
• Log Cradles/Catcher. YARDMAX calls them cradles, while other companies call them catchers. Whichever term you use, YARDMAX 25-ton log splitter includes them. I appreciate that it’s not an additional purchase.
• Residential Warranty. They offer a 3-year warranty on materials and workmanship, a 2-year warranty on engine/motor, and a 1-year warranty on hydralics.
• Towable. Includes a 2 inch ball with safety chains and can be towed up to 45 mph.
• Accessibility. The YARDMAX 25-ton log splitter is not difficult to find. You can purchase it on Amazon or find it at your local Home Depot.

Cons

• Affordable. I’m saying the price tag is a con for this log splitter because you can purchase it on Amazon for $2,099.99 plus shipping or buy it at Home Depot for $1,062.81. That’s a big difference! Store to store pick up at Home Depot is free.
• Noise. Sorry to be redundant, but gas log splitters are louder than electric log splitters, and ear protection is recommended when using this log splitter. 🙂

Maintenance Requirements

• I was unable to find any specific maintenance requirements for the YARDMAX 25-ton log splitter.

5. Sun Joe 10-ton Log Splitter

Your Best MANUAL Log Splitter

If you’re looking for a simple, straight forward approach to cutting your logs then the Sun Joe 10-ton log splitter is the solution for you. You can split logs without the hassle of gas or cords. This is a much slower process than a gas or electric log splitter because the cycle time depends on your ability to pump the operating handles.

Pros

• Portable. No gas or cords required which means you can easily take this log splitter anywhere with you. It only weighs 87 pounds and has rear wheels for easy maneuvering.
• Affordable. Very affordable. You can purchase the Sun Joe 10-ton log splitter for about $158.00.
• Accessibility. One of the great things about this log splitter is that it is sold in so many places. You can find it at Home Depot, on Amazon, and even at Walmart.
• Warranty. Sun Joe offers a 2-year full warranty for residential use in the United States and Canada.
• Log Cradles. Built in log cradles catch split pieces which makes for easy clean up.

Cons

• Horizontal Only. You only have the option of splitting logs in a horizontal position with this log splitter.
• Cycle Time. Since cycle time depends on your ability to pump the operating handles, there is no great way to measure this. If you’re looking for a fast way to split logs then this Sun Joe 10-ton log splitter isn’t going to get the job done for you.

Maintenance Requirements

• Periodically apply a light coat of rust resistant oil to the springs to keep them in proper working order.
• Annually clean and lightly lubricate parts.

6. Power King 11-ton Kinetic Log Splitter

Your Best KINETIC/NON-HYDRAULIC Log Splitter

This kinetic log splitter is a fast and uncomplicated way to split firewood. Power King is made by QV Tools and has a Kohler engine. Since it’s kinetic it uses less fuel than hydraulic log splitters and the flywheel design eliminates the need for hoses, pumps, valves, and cylinders.

Pros

• Cycle Time.  The Power King 11-ton kinetic log splitter has an incredible 3-second cycle time! That’s fast! Please take note that it is faster than the YARDMAX 25-ton log splitter than I detail above. I choose to categorize it here based on it’s non-hydraulic properties rather than for it’s cycle time.
• Portable. It has 2 rear wheels and weighs only 216 pounds making it very manageable for maneuvering by hand.
• Affordable. Depending on where you buy it you’ll pay between $900-$1,200. You can find it both on Amazon and at Home Depot.
• Assembly.  Your Power King 11-ton kinetic log splitter is almost completely assembled when it arrives. The only parts left for you to attach are the axle, front stand, and wheels.
• Warranty. Kohler engines are covered with a 3-year residential warranty.
• Log Keepers. This is designed to hold your log in place. It cradles the log so you can use both hands to operate the machine.
• Auto Retract. The split lever will automatically retract.

Cons

• Not Towable. There is no way to couple this log splitter to be towed.
• Two Hand Operation. This is most likely a safety feature. In order to operate it you first push the unlock lever and hold it with one hand, then with your other hand push the split lever quickly and let go.
• Horizontal Only. You can’t stand this log splitter up to a vertical position.
• Split Wedge. I’m putting this as a negative for this log splitter. This splitter splits the logs off the end of the machine. I find this very inconvenient. For example, if you need to split a log more than once, you have to retrieve your log from a pile of wood on the ground.
• Noise. As with gas log splitters, this kinetic log splitter is loud and it is recommended that you wear ear protection.

Maintenance Requirements

• Before each use:
  • check engine oil level
  • check general equipment
  • grease teeth of the rack
  • check belts
  • grease teeth of the pinion
• Every 5 hours clean engine exterior and cooling.
• After the first 5 hours change engine oil.
• Every 25 hours:
  • change engine oil
  • replace air filter
• Every 100 hours replace spark plug.

7. Boss Industrial 13-ton 3-Point Hitch Log Splitter

Your Best TRACTOR MOUNT Log Splitter

If you already own a Category 1 or Category 2 tractor then this 3-point hitch log splitter might be the perfect fit for you. It attaches to your tractor’s hydraulics eliminating the need for any additional gas or electricity. I think this is a very creative and alternative method for splitting wood.

Pros

• Attachment. This log splitter attaches to category 1 or category 2 tractor mounts. These are the type of tractors that are used residentially.
• Dual Action. This log splitter is pretty unique in that the splitting wedge is sharp on both ends so it can split logs forward and backwards. This saves you time not having to wait for the wedge to return to its original position before spitting another log.
• Log Trays. Some people call them log catchers or cradles, Boss Industrial calls them log trays. This tractor mount log splitter comes with 2 extra large log trays. This is really handy!
• Cycle Time. The cycle time will be determined by your tractor’s hydraulic system pressure. It is recommended that your tractor has between 2000 psi to 3700 psi. In forward position you can expect to get around 3.5 seconds and in reverse position about a 4 second speed.
• Hoses.  Included are 2 100″ hoses to connect to your tractor’s hydraulics.
• Warranty. Boss Industrial offers a 2 year warranty if used for personal, family, or household use.
• Cost. I’m including this as a pro for this 3-point hitch log-splitter but if you don’t already own a Category 1 or Category 2 tractor then the cost is definitely a con. Right now you can purchase this machine for about $760.00 at Home Depot.
• Availability. It’s pretty easy to find this log-splitter on Amazon and Home Depot.
• Towable. Obviously this Boss Industrial 3-point hitch log splitter is towable because it hooks directly up to your tractor. It is recommended that if you are going to be moving this machine over hilly or uneven terrain that you have a tow vehicle available and adequate help with you.

Cons

• Tractor. Obviously you need a tractor in order to use this log splitter! If you don’t already own a tractor or aren’t planning on buying one, then this log splitter doesn’t make sense for you.
• Assembly and Set-Up. This log-splitter requires two or more adults to assemble and set-up. It takes about 20 minutes to get this machine attached to your tractor and ready for use.

Maintenance Requirements

• Before each use:
  • lubricate top, sides, and bottom of the beam and where it comes in contact with the splitting wedge with engine oil
  • bleed the air out of the hoses
  • check hydraulic fluid level
  • check hoses for cracks or wear

8. Troy-Bilt FLEX Log Splitter

Your most COMPACT Log Splitter

This compact log splitter has 8-tons of ram force behind it and it folds up tightly to save you space in your garage or shed. Troy-Bilt has designed this log splitter to attach and detach quickly to their FLEX Power Base. You buy the Power Base and then have many attachment options available to you. In addition to their log splitter, you can attach a pressure washer, chipper shredder, wide-area mower, water pump, and snow blower.

Pros

• Compact. The FLEX log splitter folds up, which I think is a great idea! Use it during log season and then put it away in the corner of your garage till you need it next year. With this log splitter you don’t have a big piece of machinery taking up a lot of space.
• Limited Warranty. The initial purchaser of the FLEX log splitter is given a limited warranty for residential use.

Cons

• Availability. Unfortunately this compact log splitter is a bit hard to get a hold of. I haven’t been able to find it on Amazon and it wasn’t available at my Home Depot either. You can order it directly from their website though.

Maintenance Requirements

• After the first 5 hours of operation:
  • Check hydraulic fluid
• Before each use:
  • Check hydraulic fluid
• Every 8 hours of operation:
  • Check clutch bumpers
• Every season:
  • Check hardware
• Every season or 100 hours of operation:
  • Replace hydraulic fluid

* At the time of this writing (5/2020) I have been unable to find some statistics about the FLEX log splitter that I would like to include in my article. I have tried multiple times to contact Troy-Bilt, but possibly due to COVID-19 they have been unresponsive. I hope to update my article a soon as these facts are made available to me. Thank you for your patience and understanding.

9. The Stinger Spiral Splitter by Eterra

Your most UNIQUE Log Splitter

Eterra has design a very creative product! The Stinger Spiral attaches to an auger drive and pushes into the log to “pop them” into more manageable sizes. Pretty powerful! You just need an output shaft sized either 2-9/16″ round or 2″ Hex and 2,100 ft. lbs.

Pros

• Affordable. You can buy this from Eterra for $650.00 This is a pretty good price for a log splitter since all you need to do is to attach it to your existing hardware.
• Dimensions. The Stinger Spiral Splitter only weighs 52 pounds and is 20 inches in overall length. You can store this log splitter practically anywhere and doesn’t require a team lift to move it!
• Cycle Time. There is no way to measure this precisely but the more torque your auger drive has the better The Stinger will perform.
• Warranty. They offer a 1-Year NO-HASSLE warranty on their Stinger Spiral Log Splitter.

Cons

• Availability. Unfortunately they aren’t sold around the country, but you can order directly from their website.
• Auger. You can’t operate this log splitter without additional equipment. You need to own or borrow an auger.

Maintenance Requirements

• No maintenance requirements to be noted.

10. Fiskars Super 36″ Splitting Axe

Your best BUDGET Log Splitter

Fiskars has designed this splitting axe to be user friendly with its shock-absorbing FiberComp handle, balanced power-to-weight ration, and ultra-sharp blade. If you’re looking for a budge tool to split logs then this 36″ splitting axe is a good option for you. It provides a sharp edge on the blade for better contact and cleaner cuts.

Pros

• Availability. You can find the Fiskars Splitting Axe sold in many locations including your local Home Depot and Amazon.
• Cost. You can buy this best selling splitting axe for $59.97 on Amazon.
• Nonslip Grip. The handle is designed with a nonslip grip to reduce hand strain and improve control.
• Blade Sheath. Included is a blade sheath to protect your blade when not in use.
• Size. It’s small and can be thrown easily into your pickup. It measures 9-1/4″ W x 1-3/4″ D x 37-3/4″ H.
• No Gas or Electricity Required. An obvious point, but an important one. A no fuss solution to splitting logs. No gas cans, extension cords, or hydraulic fluid to think about.
• Warranty. Lifetime warranty.
• Assembly. No assembly required. Axe comes ready to use.

Cons

• Manual Power. This is an obvious point but none the less important to mention. Not everyone is up to the task of splitting logs manually with a splitting axe. Splitting logs this way takes some skill, time, and energy.

Maintenance Requirements

While there are no specific maintenance requirement for Fiskars 36″ Splitting Axe, these are some general practices to follow:

• Keep your blade sharp. Your cuts will be more efficient and you will prevent injury if you keep your blade sharp.
• Avoid rust on your blade. Don’t put your axe away dirty or wet. Dirt and moisture can cause corrosion.

Comparison Chart

* Sun Joe 10-ton manual log spitter, Troy-Bilt FLEX, The Stinger Spiral Splitter by Eterra, and Fiskars Super 36″ Splitting Axe either did not provide enough information on their websites to be included on my chart or these stats don’t apply to them.

Conclusion

Wow, there are so many options for us to choose from! I personally think it comes down to how much money we want to spend and what our specific needs are. In trying to decide what log splitter to purchase we might want ask ourself these questions:

• What is my budget?
• Is portability important to me?
• Would I rather have a gas or electric log splitter?
• Is space to store it an issue?
• Do I already own a tractor?

Hopefully this article has been insightful for you and that possibly learned about a type of log splitter that you had never considered before. Please tell me in the comments what log splitter you choose and why.

Keepsm:)ing!