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One of the harsh realities of owning a car is that it’s never going to look as good as when you first drive it off of the lot.
The rigors of daily life add up. Small rocks and dust can leave scratches, or in worst cases deep chips that expose bare metal. Rain and UV light from the sun will leave paintwork dull and lifeless. In the worst case, bumps from fender benders can damage entire panels.
But with the right products, almost any paint damage can be repaired cheaply and effectively. Keep reading to find out what you need to know to purchase automotive touch-up paint.

Why You Should Use Touch-Up Paint
Even a single scratch can ruin the look of a car. If you’re proud of your vehicle having chipped, scratched, or faded paintwork is probably not option. Scratches and chips can come out of nowhere. All it takes is a single branch, stone tossed into the air by traffic, or someone brushing up against the panels can leave unsightly damage.
Damage to your paintwork shouldn’t be fixed purely for aesthetic reasons. Deeper chips and scratches can let air and moisture attack the metal bodywork of your car, which could lead to long term structural damage.
But body shops are expensive, and modern touch up kits contain exactly the same paint and products that your local professional would use, down to the precise, color-matched, manufacturer-approved paint.
The Benefits of Touch-Up Paint
Autobody shops will have you thinking that paying a few hundred dollars for scratch repair is your only option, but paints on the
Speed
Your local body shop might have a waiting list days or weeks long, and that’s not even considering the fact that they might have to special order in your paint. A paint kit bought online could be at your door within 24 hours and applied the same day.
The reason this is important is simple. The longer you leave your vehicle with damaged paint, the worse that damage gets. If the scratch goes through to the primer, you must fix the problem as soon as possible. The oxidization process could start within hours, leading your bodywork to rust, and once rust takes, it’s almost impossible to remove without serious work.
Cost
Did you know that respraying a single panel on most vehicles can cost several hundred dollars? Even the most expensive car touch up kits cost less than a hundred bucks, saving you a lot of cash, especially if you’re applying it yourself on a small area of damage.
Ease
One of the unseen costs of taking your car to the shop is the opportunity cost. Bare minimum, it’s going to take at least a couple of hours out of your day, but the whole process will probably take a whole day or more.
Most paint kits can be applied in as little as an hour or two, from the comfort of your driveway or garage. Kits like these are also designed to be as easy to use as possible, meaning that even people with zero experience could apply a kit like these with no issues.
Types of Touch-Up Paint
Different manufacturers take different approaches to repairing paint damage and color matching. We take a look at the most common types below.
Touch-Up Paint Kits
The most effective variety of touch up paint comes as a kit. Some of our best choices are kits, for good reason. Kits like these can be more difficult to use than other styles of touch up paint, but offer better color matching and a much smoother finish.
Touch up paint kits are generally matched to particular car manufacturers, with kits being matched to exact paint colors from specific years. This means that, as long as you can find a particular kit to match your car, you’ll get the closest paint match possible.
Touch-Up Paint Sprays
What most people probably imagine when they think of touch up paint, sprays like these are simple to use in principle, but unless you have experience applying spray paints, products like these might end with an uneven finish, with heavy spatter or a visible texture.
However, there is no better way to quickly cover a large area, meaning that sprays like these are best suited for larger discolored panels. You also tend to find plastic and chrome touch ups delivered as a spray.
Touch-Up Paint Pens or Brushes
The easiest-to-use style of touch up paint, pens or brushes are incredibly simple to apply, but because of the design and function, are only really suitable for small, shallow scratches and dents.
Pens and brushes function exactly as their name suggests. Pens are basically a big sharpie marker that can paint over the damaged area of a vehicle. Brushes resemble a large pot of nail varnish, with a similar narrow brush that’s designed to cover small areas with a reasonable amount of control. We don’t recommend touch up pens and brushes for anything besides the smallest scratches.
Trim and Furniture Touch-Up Kits
Designed specifically for the plastic trim and furniture of your vehicle, you’ll find touch up kits like these are generally delivered as a spray.
Safe to use internally and externally, sprays like these can only be used on the plastic trim and furniture, and can’t be used on bodywork paneling. On the upside, furniture touch up kits tend to be incredibly simple to use and leave a great finish without much effort.

Top 10 Best Automotive Touch-Up Paint 2021
1. Best Overall Touch-Up Paint: Color-N-Drive Exact Match Kit

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Why we like it: The single best product on the market to touch up the paint on your car, Color-N-Drive make hundreds of individual kits that are keyed to almost all popular makes and models out there, with the closest color matches possible.
Editor’s Rating:

Color Matching
Color-N-Drive kits are matched to the color code of your car, which means that the kit you get should be as closely matched to your vehicle’s original color as possible.
Once you’ve found the color code and made your order, the kit comes with a pot of color, alongside a second pot that can be mixed with the paint to gradually dull it down. The reason for this is that, unless your car is brand new, the paintwork will have faded from wear, meaning newly applied paint would stand out.
Ease of Use
The only downside with this kit is how difficult it is to use. Overall, the process isn’t hard, just complicated and extensive. Expect to set aside several hours to prepare and paint your car.
However, you get absolutely everything you need in the box kit, and the instructions are comprehensive and simple to follow, even for absolute beginners.
Application and Kit
Out of every product we considered for this list, Color-N-Drive is by far the most comprehensive kit. Even the basic kit comes with paint, matching paste, cleaning solution, and Carnauba finishing wax. On top of this, it comes with small application brushes, as well as buffing cloths. Essentially, you’re getting absolutely everything you need to get started in one box.
A lot of other touch up paints don’t do this and require buying several other products just to be able to apply them correctly.
Finally, Color-N-Drive kits have three different size options; basic, plus, and pro. Each step increases the amount of paint and other products in the kit, letting you cover much more area, in case of extensive damage. As long as it’s stored correctly, the paint will also last a long time, giving you a little bit of insurance for the future.

Pros
Mixable formula means a perfect match
Comes as a complete kit with everything included
Different kit sizes let you buy as much or as little as you need

Cons
Takes a little effort to perfectly match your paintwork color
Instructions could be clearer

2. Best Pen Applicator: ACDelco Four-In-One Touch Up Pen

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Why we like it: Effortlessly simple, a pen tool like this is the easiest way to fix small scratches and chips on any standard GM car.
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Color Matching
First off, it’s necessary to point out that these pens only match the colors of GM cars and trucks. However, a quick search will find a huge amount of similar style pens for almost any model of car.
ACDelco use officially branded GM equipment in their products, which means that the paint in each one of these pens is perfectly color-matched to the paint that’s used during your vehicle’s initial spray coat.
Ease of Use
The real reason to choose a pen-style applicator like these is how simple they are to use. All you need to do is clean away any rust or other contaminants in the scratch, then fill in the gap with either the pen or brush applicators.
It might take several coats to fill deeper scratches because the finish from several light coats that are built up is significantly better. Once the paint is dry, the area should be polished or wet sanded until it’s smooth, then clear coated, also using the pen.
Application and Kit
Each pen contains four separate tools, including a cleaning and prep tool, applicator pen and brush, and a clear coat finish to protect the newly applied paint.
It’s recommended that you use third party tools to properly prep larger or deeper scratches and chips, and polish the finish back down when you’ve applied the paint. This will make sure that the finish is as good as it possibly can be, especially when it hits sunlight.

Pros
Good color match to GM vehicles
Four options in each pen, including cleaning tools

Cons
Only suitable for GM vehicles
Instructions are unclear

3. Best General Paint Kit: Paint2Fix Touch-Up Honda Civic Kit

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Why we like it: The second kit on our list, Paint2Fix kits come with everything you need to touch up almost any kind of damage quickly and easily.
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Color Matching
Like most good kits, Paint2Fix kits are matched to the OEM paint color of your car. Each kit comes with a pot of factory-matched paint, and a second pot of blending medium. This lets you blend the factory paint color down to match your vehicle’s current color, until it’s supposedly a perfect match.
This is the reason we rate this lower than the Color-N-Drive kits. The difficulty matching your car’s existing color. It’s much harder to get an exact match with this kit than with our top pick. It’s always recommended to test color matched paint kits like these on a less visible area of your vehicle first.
Ease of Use
Complete kits like these are the most difficult type of touch-up paint to use, but the trade-off is a much better finish if it’s applied correctly.
Compared to other products, the instructions provided with Paint2Fix kits are comprehensive and easy to follow, which makes a kit like this a good choice if you’ve never done a paint touchup before.
Application and Kit
All Paint2Fix kits come with everything you need to prepare and treat your car’s damaged paintwork, including; Color-matched paint, paint blending medium, clear coat and wax, as well as microfiber cloths, gloves, and brushes.
Each kit also has three options, bronze, silver, and gold, which increases the amount of paint and blending medium provided. This lets you scale up the amount of area you can cover, depending on your needs.

Pros
Color blending lets you match your existing color
Simple three-step application process
Color match a huge range of cars

Cons
Can take a little work to find the right color
Bad customer service

4. Best Brush Touch-Up Paint: Songven Car Paint Touch-Up Brush

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Why we like it: Cheap and cheerful, if you need to infill a tiny scratch and need a product that’s going to do it with the minimum of fuss, a simple brush applicator is a great option.
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Color Matching
Available in four colors, black, silver, white and red, Songven touch-up paints aren’t color-matched to particular manufacturers, but the generalist colors are a decent match to most modern makes and models.
There may be a slight difference in color compared to your existing paint job, and the finish is glossy, so we would only recommend Songven brushes for the smallest scratches.
Ease of Use
Brush applicator touch-up paints are absolutely effortless to use. It’s as simple as making sure the scratch is cleaned and dry, then fill in the damage with the applicator brush. One of the big advantages of this applicator is how it can be used on more than just cars. Motorbikes, bicycles, even boats are fair game
Application and Kit
There is no real kit to this touch-up paint. It’s just a single brush applicator. On the downside, that means there are no options when using this. On the upside, it means that there is almost nothing that can go wrong.
It’s also covered by a money-back guarantee, which is a nice touch.

Pros
Brush is very simple to use
Matches the color from most manufacturers
Covers a decent area

Cons
Only suitable for small areas
Finish is very glossy

5. Best Scratch Removal Kit: Carfidant Scratch and Swirl Remover

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Why we like it: Carfidant scratch and swirl remover is incredibly simple to use, and polishes out almost any minor scratch or damage, leaving your paintwork shiny and looking like new.
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Scratch Removal
The results of this product speak for themselves. Not only does the paintremove scratches and swirls, as well as water spots, oxidation and other contaminants, Carfidant swirl remover eliminates the tiny micro-scratches (smaller than you can see with your naked eye) to bring your car’s paintwork back to a glossy shine.
Once applied, the coating is hydrophobic, so water and dirt just beads up and rolls off. It’s also safe to apply and works on literally everything, including paint, metal, glass, even lights.
Ease of Use
Using Carfidant Scratch and Swirl remover is as simple as cleaning and waxing your car. That’s literally the whole process. Clean your car’s paintwork as you normally would, then use the bottle of scratch and swirl remover in the place of normal car wax.
Completely safe for all paint colors and types. You can use this every time you wash your car, keeping everything looking shiny and sharp, and it comes with a 100% refund guarantee.
Application and Kit
The full kit comes with two 250ml bottles of formula. You get a bottle of scratch and swirl polish and paint restorer, which is a thick, creamy composition that’s easy to apply but takes some effort to rub in completely. There’s also a ceramic clear coat spray designed to be applied as a protective layer.
The kit comes with a buffer pad, and other options have microfiber cloths and separate sponges included.

Pros
Safe to use on all paintwork types
The simple process is as easy as cleaning your car
The kit comes with a ceramic clear coat, for long term protection

Cons
Takes a little elbow grease to apply
Vulnerable to salt water

6. Best Rapid Scratch Repair Kit: Quixx Paint Scratch Removal Kit

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Why we like it: Deep scratches can be hard to fill, and leave ugly and obvious marks on your bodywork. The Quixx Scratch Removal kit is the single best way to fill chips and big scratches, leaving them flush and ready to paint.
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Scratch Removal
Deep scratches and chips, especially damage that’s reached primer. are almost impossible to fill effectively without leaving visible marks.
The answer most kits have is sandpaper. You’re expected to sand down the area around the damage until it’s flush, then build it back up again, and we don’t have to point out how involved that process can be.
Suitable for almost all paint types, and all colors, Quixx can quickly remove scratches and chips by filling the damaged area and blending in the existing paint, permanently fixing the problem.
Ease of Use
Quixx lives up to the name. Applied to a clean car, it’s a simple two-step process that takes a few minutes from start to finish. It uses German-engineered technology called plastic deformation, which creates a barrier over the top of any damage while blending with the existing paint job underneath.
If you can apply car wax or polish and follow simple instructions, you can use this product to fix scratches on your car.
Application and Kit
The kit contains everything you need to apply the product, including; the repair polish itself, as well as an incredibly fine-grit sandpaper (2500 grit) to work it in. Finishing polish, to bring your paintwork back to a mirror shine, and polishing cloths.

Pros
Simple two-step process
Creates a completely flush finish, ready to spray
Complete kit

Cons
Can’t be used with some Mercedes paint schemes

7. Best Machine Applied Scratch Remover: Adam’s Car Scratch and Swirl Remover

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Why we like it: Easy to use, Adam’s car products are a trusted choice that you can rely on. Slightly more expensive than other options
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Scratch Removal
Specifically designed to fix minor imperfections like paint swirls, scratches and paint transfer, Adam’s swirl remover is formulated with micro-alumina abrasives that  buffs out small problems with your paintwork while bringing it back to a mirror-like, factory finish.
While it’s fantastic on smaller imperfections, Adam’s scratch remover isn’t recommended for larger, deeper scratches. Look at the Quixx scratch removal kit, or a complete touch-up paint kit, instead.
Ease of Use
Like most scratch removal kits, using Adam’s scratch and swirl remover is as simple as waxing and polishing your car. The included hex grip applicator is easy to hold, and only needs a tiny amount of Adam’s scratch remover per panel.
Safe to use in direct sunlight, Adam’s scratch remover also doesn’t pick up dust like a lot of cheaper products might, meaning that you can apply this on your drive without worrying about the finish.
Another huge advantage of Adam’s scratch remover is that it’s completely safe for machine application. If you have that option, a buffing machine can save you a huge amount of time and effort.
Application and Kit
The basic kit is precisely that, basic. You get one bottle of Adam’s scratch and swirl remover, and a hex applicator. On top of this, you’ll need a way to clean your car, and probably wax or polish and an applicator cloth, all of which can also be bought from Adam’s.
The product itself will last for several uses, even if applied to your entire vehicle, as you only need one or two pea-sized drops to cover an entire panel.

Pros
Exceptional finish
The included foam pad makes polishing effortless
Safe and additive-free

Cons
Only works on small to medium sized scratches
Not the cheapest option

8. Best Rust Protection Spray: Rust-Oleum Automotive Plastic Trim Black Gloss

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Why we like it: Rust-Oleum is a brand that can be trusted, and their products are consistently good. This spray doesn’t just cover imperfections, it actively works to prevent rusting, making it the perfect choice for older cars.
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Color Matching
With a formula specifically designed to bond with automotive plastic and OEM color matching, if your need to respray your trim there is no better option than Rust-Oleum.
Properly prepped, Rust-Oleum trim spray will bond to any car plastics without needing primer, renewing and restoring the plastic, and making it look brand new. The spray is also safe to use on metal trim, mirror covers, bumpers, and virtually any car material. On top of this, Rust-Oleum actively protects against rust, helping to slow the spread and prolong the lifespan of your vehicle.
Ease of Use
Spray paints like these are simple to use. Clean the area, then apply two or more thin coats. Rust-Oleum spray cans come with comfort tips that are clog-resistant, and can be sprayed from any angle without spatter.
One thing to point out is that you need to make sure that the area where you’re applying this is completely clean and free from dirt, grime or other contaminants. Rust-Oleum paint has a strong enough bond that it will happily adhere over the top of any dust or dirt, fixing it in place and ruining the finish permanently.
Application and Kit
Each can contains 12oz of paint and comes with an easy-application tip. There are options to buy in bulk if you need more paint, which works out cheaper.

Pros
OEM color-matched to all black bumpers and trim
Spray is easy to apply
Protects against rust and corrosion

Cons
The area of application has to be completely clean

9. Best for Trim Restoration: Carfidant Trim and Plastic Restorer

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Why we like it: Another Carfidant product hits our list. While it doesn’t contain a colorant, Carfidant trim and plastic restorer can be used on all non-metal surfaces, making them look as good as new.
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Color Matching
Carfidant trim and plastic restorer doesn’t match your car’s existing color. Instead, it renews and restores your existing trim, cleaning away grime, bringing out the existing color, and creating a protective layer over the top.
Ease of Use
Like most Carfidant products, their trim and plastic restorer is incredibly easy to use. It works on plastic, rubber, and vinyl, but is completely safe on all surfaces and can be used internally or externally.
Water-based, it won’t ever damage rubber or trim and leaves no oily residue or film. Instead, it provides a barrier to further damage, protecting your trim from drying, fading and UV sun damage.
Application and Kit
The kit is as straightforward as the rest of the product. A single bottle of plastic trim restoration fluid and a sponge. But that’s all you need. A few drops on the application sponge and you’re safe to wipe down all the plastic and rubber surfaces of your car. Once that’s done, let it dry, which takes a handful of minutes, and you’re good to go. Simple, easy, just how we like it.

Pros
Water-based product is completely safe to use
Easy to apply, inside and out
USA made 100% refund guarantee

Cons
Doesn’t contain color

10. Best Spray Touch-Up Paint: Dupli-Color Perfect Match

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Why we like it: Dupli-Color is a trusted brand with a 60-year lineage, and their Perfect Match series is the simplest way to quickly respray a larger area, like whole panels.
Editor’s Rating:

Color Matching
Every Dupli-Color spray is color-matched to manufacturer’s paint codes, getting you the closest you can to your vehicle’s factory standard color out of a spray can. Each can of paint is pre-matched and aged, so out of the can it should be very close to your existing color.
Bear in mind that individual vehicles will have paintwork that’s aged differently, based on things like the local UV index from the sun, whether it’s kept outside overnight, and other variables, so it’s best to test the spray on a smaller, hidden area first, like a wheel well.
Ease of Use
Spray cans like these are deceptively easy to use but might take a little work for the perfect finish. Out of the can, these sprays can be applied directly over the factory finish to repair scratches or chips.
The spray cans come with an EZ-touch 360-degree nozzle that helps get you a smooth and even finish. The paint is high-quality, with minimal flaking, and dries to touch in as little as 30 minutes. Even large areas will be dry to handle in around 1 hour.
As it’s a spray can, Dupli-Color Perfect Match can also be used to respray entire panels without purchasing an expensive spray gun and air compressor, although the look might not be perfec.
Application and Kit
Sprays like these should only be applied to prepared areas unless they’re covering small scratches and dings. The area to be sprayed will need to be stripped and sanded, then primed and cleaned before spraying.
Once that’s done, the paint will need to be laid down in several light coats, but will bond to any standard primer. The cans are easy to handle, with easy applicator heads. If necessary, you can buy in bulk, which saves money. Dupli-Color also offers a Clear Coat spray, which should be applied after the paint to protect the new coat.

Pros
Great color matching
Simple to use
Matches most major manufacturers
Affordable

Cons
Vulnerable to humidity
When can is low, can spatter

Buying a Paint Touch-Up Kit for 2021
While a great touch-up kit can completely fix the appearance of a gouge, scratch, or blemish, the wrong paint can make it even worse. We answer some of the most common questions below.
How Easy are Touch Up Paints to Use?
How difficult your touch up paint is going to be to use depends entirely on the type of kit you buy.
In general, pens and brushes are relatively simple. Once the area has been prepared, which generally means priming any bare metal, you can simply paint directly over the damaged area. The look won’t be perfect, but these kits are pretty effective.
Sprays and complete kits can take a lot more preparation, up to stripping the existing paint, applying a pre-paint primer, then finishing with a complicated series of buffers and clear coats.
What Type of Touch Up Paint Do You Need?
When considering what type of touch up paint to buy, you need to consider several key things:
How extensive your paint damage is
Whether it’s a single scratch, a series of scratches, a deep chip, or a large area of damage
Whether the area needs re-priming
Whether bare metal is exposed
The larger and more extensive the damage, the more comprehensive the kit you should purchase. Minor scratches can generally be polished out or touched up with a simple pen or spray, but larger areas will require more extensive treatment, meaning a full kit would be a better choice.
How to Apply Touch Up Paint
Most touch up paint products are applied similarly. The most important step is always preparation because a dirty or badly prepared area of application is going to ruin the finish, no matter how careful you are with everything else.
When you’re prepping your car for touch up paint, here’s what you need to do:
Start by washing and preparing the area that needs to be touched up. You can check out our favorite car wash kits here.
Eliminate all signs of rust and corrosion. Any rust left under new paintwork will continue to oxidize and eat away at the metal of your car’s bodywork, and now, with paint applied over the top, it will be impossible to see the extent of the damage.
Smooth down any rough or harsh edges on scratches and chips. An ultra-high grain sandpaper is ideal. All areas should be flush and smooth to the touch before any paint is applied, otherwise there will be a visible ridge once the paint has dried.
Apply your chosen touch up product, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Once all products have dried, polish the area, making sure that all areas that touch up paint have been applied to are smooth to the touch, with no imperfections.
Some products require multiple layers. If so, make sure you give it adequate time to dry, otherwise it can affect the finish, then repeat these steps in order.
Once the touch up paint is applied, smooth and polished, we recommend that you apply a good quality clear coat. Clear-coat sprays create a protective layer over your paintwork, and are an important part of keeping your paint looking smart long term. Some kits come with a good quality clear coat, but many don’t.
Applying Touch-Up Paint Safely
When applying vehicle paint, always make sure that you use it in well-ventilated areas, as most rattle cans use toxic propellants and other dangerous chemicals as part of the formula.
Always follow the recommended safety instructions on anything you buy, and if in doubt, a ventilation mask and safety goggles are always a good start.
Where Do I Apply Touch-Up Paint?
Preparing your workstation can have a big effect on the final finish when you’re touching up paint. Having a large area to move freely around will make the entire job simpler, and you should try to minimize dust or other contaminants in the air, as they can get stuck in wet paint and ruin the finish.
If possible, work indoors. A garage is ideal. Sweep the floor, move any obstacles out of the area, and prepare everything before you begin. Some touch-up paints have time-sensitive steps, and it’s much simpler to have everything in one place.
If you’re working outside, start by cleaning the area you’re working in. Hose it down using a fine mist to settle airborne dust, then wash your car.
It also stands to reason that you shouldn’t work directly under anything. Sap from trees, grime from guttering, even condensation falling from your roof can land on wet paint and utterly ruin a paint job.
When Is the Best Time to Apply Touch-Up Paint?
External conditions can have a big effect on the final finish of your paint, even if you’re inside a garage or otherwise under cover.
If possible, avoid days that are too hot or cold, stay outside of direct sunlight, and choose days with medium to low humidity. Extreme weather or particularly high levels of humidity can affect the final finish even if your car isn’t directly exposed to the elements.
Can You Remove Touch Up Paint Once It’s Been Applied?
A badly applied paint job can be removed, but it’s not easy. It’s much better to make sure that you’re prepared before the paint is applied and to attempt to get the best finish the first time. But if you do need to remove touched up paint, there are several options:
Firstly, it may be possible to physically remove recently applied paint, or paint that has dried flaky or uneven. If this is the case, you can start by trying to pick the paint free with just your fingernail. If that fails, a toothpick might provide an alternative that won’t worsen the damage. Avoid metal tools, as they can just as easily add more scratches to the paintwork and make the problem worse.
Paint thinner or nail cleaner is another option, especially if the area is relatively small. Start by cleaning the area around the paint that needs to be removed, then slowly apply paint thinner to the area with a Q-tip.
Once the thinner has been left on for the required amount of time, wipe it free with a soft cloth, and re-clean the area to make sure there is no remaining paint thinner.
The final option is the most drastic. Sanding the area down and beginning again. To take this step, begin by masking off the area that needs to be removed with a good quality car masking tape. Then pick a low grain sandpaper (around 150 to 200 grit is ideal) and sand off the topcoat with slow, steady back and forward motions. Do not sand in a single direction, as it will affect the finish.
Wipe the area clean of paint dust, then move to a 500 or 600 grit sandpaper and gently repeat the process to smooth away any harsh edges. Once the area has been sanded down to the primer, smoothed off and cleaned, you can reapply your choice of touch up paint.
How to Match Your Existing Paint Color
The best touch up paints can be matched to the original manufacturer’s paint scheme using something called an OEM code or color code.
A color code is a unique set of letters and numbers, generally between three and six characters long. Color codes are different to paint color names, because the same paint color across different years will have different color codes. This lets manufacturers, body shops, and you buy pre-colored paint that accounts for the aging and fading paintwork will experience over time.
Most cars and trucks will have their color code somewhere on the body, normally in one of three places:
Near the bottom of the driver’s side door frame
Next to the VIN number, at the bottom right of the windshield looking into the car
Inside the glove box
If you’re still struggling to find your vehicle’s specific color code, you can find a more comprehensive list here. When you’ve received your chosen touch up paint product, it’s recommended that you check the color against your existing paintwork on a small and unobtrusive area that’s out of sight.
Good areas to choose include under a wheel arch, or inside the trim of a door or the boot. Once applied, give your touch up paint 24 hours to dry, as the color will continue to change as the paint dries completely.
How Long Does a Touch-Up Paint Last?
No paint job will last forever. Even a high-quality, factory finish paint job on a car that’s kept under cover in a garage will slowly dull and lose its luster over time.
Touch-up jobs are no different. On average, expect a well-applied touch-up job to last around one year if you do it yourself, follow the instructions correctly, and apply a clear coat finish.
If done by a professional, for example your local body shop, you could expect a touch up to last up to 2-3 years, which is a surprisingly minor difference for the cost.
When Should I Avoid Touch Up Paint?
In general, unless you know exactly what you’re doing, touch up paints shouldn’t be used if:
There is any sign of rust on or around the bodywork
The damage has exposed bare metal, and it has been left for longer than a few days
This is because applying a touch up paint on metal that’s already started rusting does nothing to slow the process, meaning that your car’s frame could be rusting away underneath that fresh coat of paint, with no way for you to know until it fails. If paneling begins to rust, you’re better off taking your car to a professional.
My Paint Is Peeling. Can I Use Touch Up Paint?
Paint that’s peeling away is normally not caused by the actual paintwork. Instead, the problem is generally the clear coat.
If your paint is peeling in a large area, especially if it also has a yellow cast or tint, the best thing to do is strip and reapply a high-quality clear coat, rather than spraying a touch up coat on to it.
After a Touch Up Can I Wax My Car?
It’s not recommended that you wax your car until the touch up paint is completely clear, because the chemicals in the wax can react with the paint and ruin both.
This works both ways. If you’ve recently waxed your car, make sure that it’s been thoroughly cleaned before attempting to touch up the paintwork.
Final Thoughts
There’s a dizzying amount of options for touching up your paintwork, but if in doubt, the best option is a fully comprehensive kit. Matched to your car’s precise manufacturer’s color, with everything you need to apply the paint and protect the finished job in one box, there’s very little that can compete with a kit like this. More

Sometimes life gets a little loud. While some noise is okay, if you’re frequently in situations that leave your ears ringing, you need the proper protection. You only get one pair of ears, so taking care of them should be a priority. To avoid ailments like tendinitis and hearing loss, getting your hands on a pair of electronic earmuffs is a great idea.
Electronic earmuffs offer hearing protection for loud noises that can damage your eardrums. While electronic earmuffs are often used for shooting firearms, they can also be used around the house or on noisy jobsites. In fact, some products come with audio capabilities that let you listen to your favorite songs.
We’ve done the research, and we’re going to take you through the ten best electronic earmuffs.

Things to Consider When Shopping for Electronic Earmuffs
While earmuffs seem like simple products, there is a lot of variation between each model. Some products come with advanced features, like active noise amplification, while others offer basic features.
For this reason, you need to carefully consider what you’re looking to get out of electronic earmuffs. So, we’re going to take you through a few things to look for in electronic earmuffs.
Noise Reduction Rating (NRR)
Before considering electronic earmuffs, you need to understand a product’s noise reduction rating (NRR). The NRR rating shows how much noise reduction electronic earmuffs offer. For electronic earmuffs, most products feature NRR levels of around 15-34 dB.
If you’re using electronic earmuffs in your car or around the house, 15-20dB is all you need. On the other hand, if you’re using firearms, it’s essential to get the best protection possible. If you’re looking to learn more about ear protection, we’ll have more information down below.
Audio Capabilities
While electronic earmuffs are designed to protect your ears from noise, some products come with advanced features like auxiliary inputs. These inputs allow you to listen to music through the earmuffs. The sound quality varies but listening to music is a great way to drown out ambient noise. If you’re looking to use electronic earmuffs on a jobsite or around the house, having an auxiliary input is one of the best features to keep an eye on.
Power Source
Most electronic earmuffs run on AAA batteries, but some are rechargeable. While batteries aren’t too expensive, the cost adds up over time. For this reason, considering how long batteries will last and how they’re powered is essential.
Furthermore, we recommend looking for products with auto-shutoff features to prevent the batteries from draining if you’re not using them. The average battery life for electronic earmuffs is about 300 hours for products with batteries and 30 hours for rechargeable products.
Price
When it comes to electronic earmuffs, there are a few different price ranges. Depending on the quality of technology used in electronic earmuffs, the price will vary. To make the shopping process more comfortable, we’ve grouped each product into one of two categories:
$: Around $20-$50$$: Around $50 or Above
Knowing what to look for in electronic earmuffs makes finding the right fit hassle-free. Still, you’ll need to see the ten best electronic earmuffs to make a decision. Read on to discover our picks for the best electronic earmuffs.

Top 10 Best Electronic Earmuffs 2021
1. Best Overall Electronic Earmuffs: Howard Leight Impact Sport Earmuffs

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Why we like it: Howard Leight Impact Sport Earmuffs are our favorite product because they offer the best protection and value. You can reduce harmful sounds while hearing lower decibels without a problem.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Price: $$
NRR Rating: 82dB
Auxiliary: Yes
Power Source: AAA Batteries
Howard Leight Impact Sport Earmuffs are top-tier electronic earmuffs. While they protect your ears from sounds over 82 decibels, they allow you to hear anything under that range. These earmuffs are well-made. They’re large enough to cover both ears and use padding to make sure you’re comfortable. These earmuffs also come with everything you need right out of the box. Batteries are included, and they last about 350 hours; however, they last longer with the auto-shutoff feature.
What Sets It Apart
These earmuffs are unique because of the active noise cancelation feature. While most electronic earmuffs will block out sounds, these earmuffs work up to 82 decibels. Compared to other products, this noise cancelation is superior.
Things to Consider
While these earmuffs get the job done, they’re not perfect. Unfortunately, the price for these earmuffs is higher than similar products. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Awesafe Electronic Shooting Earmuffs are a great alternative. While they come up short in decibels, they’re more budget-friendly.
Who It’s For
If you’re in the market for the best ear protection, these earmuffs are a great choice. They offer the best protection for the price, which makes them worth every penny. Eighty-two decibels is more than most ear protection, so finding this level of quality without needing to spend hundreds is a blessing.

Pros
Allows you to hear noises under 82 decibels
It comes with snap-in ear cushions
Batteries included
Foldable for storage and travel
Auto-shutoff

Cons
Fairly expensive

2. Best Premium Electronic Earmuffs: Peltor Sport Tactical 100

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Why we like it: This is our premium choice because it offers a unique feature that blocks out the wind.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Price: $$
NRR Rating: 24dB
Auxiliary: Yes
Power Source: AAA batteries
The Peltor Sport Tactical 100 is one of the most well-made pieces of ear protection equipment. This product uses innovative 3M technology to amplify lower sounds, like conversations, while blocking out louder noises like raging engines or firearms.
These earmuffs feature comfortable padding to keep your ears from feeling compressed, and the headband is adjustable. If you’re looking to use these earmuffs around the house, there is also an audio jack for listening to music.
What Sets It Apart
What makes these earmuffs unique is their ability to block out the noise generated by the wind. Even the best electronic earmuffs fail to account for the wind. Most electronic earmuffs use noise amplification technology, which makes gusts of wind unbearable. These earmuffs use similar noise amplification technology but block out the wind, making the experience ten times better.
Things to Consider
While these earmuffs are a great choice, they’re not perfect for everyone. Blocking out the wind is useful, but for situations where you need to hear leaves dropping or the wind blowing, this product will leave you feeling frustrated.
If you like the noise amplification and decibel protection but need a product that lets you hear the wind, the Howard Leight Impact Sport Earmuffs are a great alternative. They’re in the same price range, use similar technology, but they’re more sensitive.
Who It’s For
If you’re shooting in the woods or racing with the windows down, this product is your best choice. For situations where the wind will drive you crazy, having earmuffs with smart noise amplification technology is essential. These earmuffs allow you to hear your surroundings without gusts of wind popping your ears.

Pros
Recessive microphones block out noise from the wind
Reduces noise from gunshots but amplifies noise for conversations or commands
Padded and foldable

Cons
Expensive
It doesn’t come with batteries

3. Most Versatile Electronic Earmuffs: Walker’s Game Ear Razer

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Why we like it: These earmuffs are one of our favorite options because of the versatility they bring to the table. You can use them on the jobsite, at the track, or for shooting.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Price: $
NRR Rating: 28dB
Auxiliary: Yes
Power Source: AAA Batteries
The Walker’s Game Ear Razor is one of the most balanced products on our list. These earmuffs will keep you safe from loud noises while simultaneously amplifying sounds less than 28 decibels. This makes it easy to hear sounds you can’t hear with non-electronic products.
These earmuffs are also durable and well-made. The headband is adjustable, and the earmuffs are padded to maximize comfort. Plus, they’re strong enough to take a beating on jobsites and feature an audio jack for music.
What Sets It Apart
Compared to other products, these earmuffs offer a lot of balance. They block out an average level of noise and handle abuse from jobsites or shooting well. While they’re not perfect, they offer great value for the price. These aren’t budget earmuffs, but they won’t break the bank either. Furthermore, these earmuffs are compact and foldable. You can take them with you on the go and store them easily.
Things to Consider
These earmuffs are balanced, but they don’t come with advanced features found in premium earmuffs. For example, the noise amplification system isn’t filtered. This means that sounds like lawnmowers, snowblowers, wind, and loud engines will come through louder than other earmuffs.
If you’re looking for a more sensitive alternative, the Peltor Sport Tactical 100 is a great alternative. While it offers noise amplification technology, they’re more sensitive to sounds in a low decibel range.
Who It’s For
These earmuffs are a great choice if you’re looking to protect your ears in many situations. They’re strong enough to handle the jobsite and use noise amplification technology for things like hunting. If you’re looking for a balanced product at a fair price, these earmuffs are among the best options.

Pros
Portable and foldable
Comes with auxiliary capabilities
Padded headband and earmuffs

Cons
Not great in the wind
Cancels all noise over 28 decibels, which isn’t always ideal for hunting

4. Best Budget Electronic Earmuffs: Awesafe Electronic Shooting Earmuffs

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Why we like it: This is one of our favorite choices because of the low price tag. While they offer high-quality noise protection, they’re more affordable than most electronic earmuffs.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Price: $
NRR Rating: 22dB
Auxiliary: Yes
Power Source: AAA Batteries
These earmuffs are budget-friendly and perform, as well as higher-priced products. The Awesafe Electronic Shooting Earmuffs offer 22dB protection and allow you to hear ambient noises without problems.
These earmuffs are also flexible and useful for many applications. The headband is adjustable to fit your head size, and you can fold them for storage or portability. Plus, everything you need to use them arrives at your door, even the AAA batteries.
What Sets It Apart
These earmuffs are unique because of the price. With Awesafe Electronic Shooting Earmuffs, you get premium protection for a bargain. While you’ll miss out on a handful of premium features, like protection from the wind, these are budget-friendly earmuffs that everyone can afford.
Things to Consider
These earmuffs are a bargain, but you get what you pay for. While the protection is on-par with other earmuffs, most features come up short. The battery life is below-average because there is no auto-shutoff and the noise amplification isn’t sensitive. Things like the wind will come in louder than usual, which can ruin a hunting trip or your peace and quiet.
If you’re looking for superior electronic earmuffs, we recommend the Howard Leight Impact Sport Earmuffs. You’ll have to spend a little more, but they’re higher in quality.
Who It’s For
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, the Awesafe Electronic Shooting Earmuffs are perfect. While this product won’t leave you feeling impressed, you can get the protection you need without spending a fortune.

Pros
Budget-friendly electronic earmuffs
Noise amplification technology
Portable and adjustable

Cons
Lackluster decibel protection compared to high-end models
Not sensitive to wind

5. Best Decibel Protection: Howard Leight Impact Pro

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Why we like it: We love the Howard Leight Impact Pro because it’s one of the best choices for premium features and high-quality ear protection.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Price: $$
NRR Rating: 30dB
Auxiliary: Yes
Power Source: AAA Batteries
The Howard Leight Impact Pro is one of the most well-made products for ear protection. These electronic earmuffs are well-made and come loaded with premium features.
You’ll find electronic noise amplification for ambient noises up to four times, hazardous noise protection, a 3.5mm auxiliary jack, and padding for your ears. These earmuffs also come with two omnidirectional microphones that give you awareness of everything in your surroundings.
What Sets It Apart
These earmuffs are unique because of how intelligent the design is. While most earmuffs come with ambient noise amplification, these earmuffs make adjustments without human intervention. For example, it automatically shuts off amplification when passive noise levels reach 82dB. Furthermore, ambient noise can be amplified up to four times, which is better than most products on the market.
Things to Consider
These are great earmuffs, but some shoppers don’t need premium features, especially if you’re not in loud areas often. These earmuffs are ideal for intense shooting situations, but for jobsites or around the house, these earmuffs aren’t necessarily.
If you like some of the features but don’t need everything, the Howard Leight Impact Sport Earmuffs are a great alternative. They’re made by the same manufacturer but more affordable and reasonable for around the house.
Who It’s For
If you’re someone who is always surrounded by loud noise, these earmuffs are a great choice. The earmuffs will control what noise gets amplification and when to turn electronic features off.
Furthermore, if you’re shooting at a place like the range where firearm fire is constant, the earmuffs will automatically turn off amplification settings. This gives you more time to do what you love instead of tweaking settings.

Pros
4x amplification of ambient noise
Auto-shutoff feature
High-level noise protection, up to 82dB

Cons
Expensive
Unreasonable for jobsites or use around the house

6. Most Stylish Electronic Earmuffs: ACT Fire Shooting Earmuffs

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Why we like it: We love these earmuffs because they look great and continue to add style into your routine without fading from UV rays.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Price: $
NRR Rating: 23dB
Auxiliary: Yes
Power Source: AAA
The ACT Fire Shooting Earmuffs are a tremendous mid-tier product. While these earmuffs don’t come with many impressive features, they offer above-average performance at a great value.
The earmuffs are well-made and come with comfortable padding and an adjustable headband for comfort. They protect your ears from shooting, jobsite noise, landscaping, and other loud noises.
What Sets It Apart
The ACT Fire Shooting Earmuffs are unique because of the style they bring to the table. They’re made with Japan-imported paint that’s resistant to UV rays and general wear. Even with long-term exposure, the earmuffs hold up well and look stylish for years.
Everything on these earmuffs is also in a convenient location, and they’re sealed without harmful substances to keep your ears safe from more than noise.
Things to Consider
While these earmuffs work well, they’re not the best for listening to music. The sound quality isn’t terrible, but it’s not the greatest. If you’re looking for electronic earmuffs with better sound for music, the Howard Leight Impact Pro is a much better product. The sound comes through crystal clear, and the noise level is excellent.
Who It’s For
If you’re looking for earmuffs that look great and perform well, this product is an excellent choice. They’re great for adding some style into your life, especially if you’re trying not to look goofy at the shooting range. Overall, they’re an excellent mid-tier product for shoppers that are looking for a more budget-friendly option with outstanding performance.

Pros
Japan-imported paint job that’s resistant to UV rays
Excellent placement for volume controls
Full seal on your ears without harmful substances

Cons
Below-average sound quality

7. Most Customizable Electronic Earmuffs: Caldwell E-Max Low Profile Adjustable Earmuffs

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Why we like it: We love these earmuffs because you can customize the settings. Instead of having a fixed NRR setting, you can change between 21-25dB
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Price: $
NRR Rating: 21-25dB
Auxiliary: Yes
Power Source: AAA Batteries
The Caldwell E-Max Low Profile Adjustable Earmuffs give you everything you need right out of the box. While these earmuffs run on AAA batteries, the package comes with a set of two, so you don’t need to make an additional purchase to get them up and running.
The earmuffs are well-made and feature comfortable padding an adjustable headband. There is also an audio jack and settings for active noise amplification.
What Sets It Apart
These earmuffs are unique because you have a range for noise cancelation. Instead of being limited to one setting, you get a few options between 21-25dB. This is an excellent feature because you can customize your experience and the ambient noise the earmuffs let in.
Things to Consider
While these earmuffs perform as advertised, they’re not perfect. The cost is low, sure, but the maximum decibel protection rating is less than premium products. For example, the Howard Leight Impact Sport Earmuffs has protection up to 32dB. If you’re looking for ear protection from firearms, earmuffs with a better decibel rating are a better alternative.
Who It’s For
If you’re working on a jobsite, these earmuffs are a great choice. Because there is a decibel range, you can customize the noises you hear and keep out. This is handy for working with power tools or doing things like landscaping.

Pros
Multiple settings for decibel control
Batteries are included
Ambient noise control
Convenient button layout

Cons
Not the best NRR rating, compared to other earmuffs

8. Best Electronic Earmuffs for Music Lovers: Gloryfire Electronic Shooting Earmuff

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Why we like it: We love these earmuffs because they’re excellent for listening to music. This is because they feature high-quality microchips.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Price: $
NRR Rating: 25dB
Auxiliary: Yes
Power Source: AAA Batteries
The Gloryfire Electronic Shooting Earmuff is designed in the United States and adheres to NRR guidelines. They cancel out noises up to 82 decibels and maintain a solid NRR rating of 25dB, which is on par with more expensive products.
These earmuffs are also well-made. They feature comfortable padding that’s not too tight. Furthermore, these earmuffs offer sound amplification of six times for ambient noise.
What Sets It Apart
Unlike most earmuffs, this product is made with premium microchips that stream music well. The music is not delayed, and the sound quality is on-par with many mid-tier headphone products. Additionally, the six times noise amplification is two times more than most ear protection products around.
Things to Consider
While these earmuffs work well, they’re not the best for comfort; although the padded earmuffs keep your ears safe and cozy, the headband is not adjustable. This means that it’s not a one-size-fits-all product. If you’re looking for earmuffs with an adjustable headband, the Caldwell E-Max Low Profile Adjustable Earmuffs are a great alternative.
Who It’s For
If you’re looking for earmuffs that can play music like headphones, this product is a great choice. While the noise cancelation isn’t the best, you’ll be able to drown out the noise around the house and do your work in peace. Furthermore, these earmuffs can work for hunting and firearms.

Pros
High-end microchip for excellent music quality
Six times ambient noise amplification
Comfortable padding that’s not too tight

Cons
Lacks an adjustable headband

9. Best for Use in US and Europe: ZOHAN Electronic Shooting Ear Protection

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Why we like it: These earmuffs made our list because they’re certified for United States and European NRR standards.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Price: $
NRR Rating: 22dB
Auxiliary: Yes
Power Source: AAA Batteries
ZOHAN Electronic Shooting Ear Protection is well-rounded and balanced for at home or on the jobsite. The earmuffs are comfortable, with insertable padding, and the headband is adjustable to fit multiple sizes. These earmuffs can also be folded for compact storage and portability. They’re certified for safety in the United States and European Union and feature rubberized coating for additional protection.
What Sets It Apart
Compared to other electronic earmuffs, this product is one of the safest options. While most products are certified in the United States, these earmuffs are accredited in the EU and US. When earmuffs can maintain top-level safety on multiple continents, it’s a good sign.
Things to Consider
These are high-quality earmuffs, but the decibel protection is lackluster compared to most products. While 22dB is adequate protection for low caliber weapons and jobsites, it’s not enough for indoor shooting ranges or loud weapons like rifles.
If you need more ear protection, the Howard Leight Impact Sport Earmuffs are a great alternative. They share many features, but the decibel rating is higher by about eight decibels. These earmuffs also don’t come with an auto-shutoff feature for battery preservation.
Who It’s For
If you’re looking for a product that’s recognized worldwide for safety, these earmuffs are a great choice. You’ll be pressed to find war protection that’s certified on more than one continent.

Pros
Long battery life
Adjustable headband
NRR-certified in the United States and European Union

Cons
Low decibel rating
Batteries are not included

10. Best Rechargeable Electronic Earmuffs: Mpow Electronic Shooting Ear Protection

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Why we like it: We love these earmuffs because of the recharge 500mah battery it comes with. You’ll never have to worry about running out to find batteries.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Price: $
NRR Rating: 22dB
Auxiliary: Yes
Power Source: Rechargeable
Mpow Electronic Shooting Ear Protection is a well-made and straightforward product. All of the controls are in comfortable locations, and the earmuffs don’t require many tweaks when you’re in the fields.
This is because these earmuffs come with ambient noise amplification and an auto-shutoff feature that turns the earmuffs off if you don’t touch them. These features are great because they keep your hands off the product and focused on what you’re doing.
What Sets It Apart
These earmuffs are unique because of the rechargeable battery it comes with. The 500mAh battery gives you plenty of juice for over a full day of service. Furthermore, you never have to worry about heading to the store for more batteries. While batteries aren’t expensive, the cost increases over time, so it’s nice to see a product that saves you money in the long term.
Things to Consider
While the rechargeable battery is something we love to see on electronic earmuffs, it doesn’t give you a lot of battery life. It only lasts for 30 hours, which is much less than products that rely on traditional AA or AAA batteries.
If you’re looking for a product in a similar price range that runs on AAA batteries, the ACT Fire Shooting Earmuffs are a great alternative.
Who It’s For
If you need a simple pair of earmuffs, this product is a great choice. You won’t have to worry about finding batteries, and the battery life is decent. For the price, these earmuffs offer above-average performance and come with everything you need right out of the box.

Pros
Recharge 500mAh battery
Great value
Stylish design
Convenient controls

Cons
Only 30 hours of battery life
Poor audio quality

Everything You Need to Know About Electronic Earmuffs
[Image: https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/happy-builder-wearing-ear-protection-92111183 alt text: man wearing protective earmuffs]
Electronic earmuffs aren’t the first thing on many people’s minds. Unless you’re going to the shooting range or hunting, electronic earmuffs don’t offer much value. Instead, many people shop for the best pair of headphones. While headphones are great, they don’t provide the same protection level from loud noises or even serve the same purpose.
For these reasons, we’re going to take you through everything you need to know about electronic earmuffs. You’ve seen the best products, but now it’s time to see how they can be applied in your life.
Why You Need Electronic Earmuffs
Electronic earmuffs can be the difference between good hearing and a hearing disability. Your ear is filled with small organs, which are susceptible to damage if noise levels reach over 140 decibels. The organ of Corti and basilar membrane are the organs responsible for hearing and use little hairs within your ear to transmit sound to your brain.
The problem is that loud noises will damage these hairs, literally tearing them in half, which leads to hearing loss. The more you lose, the worse your hearing will be because scar tissue begins to cover these organs.
For this reason, you need to make sure your ears are safe from sounds that reach 140 decibels. Some examples include chainsaws, firearms, lawn equipment, hunting weapons, and more.
How Much Protection Is Necessary?
When it comes to ear protection, finding adequate protection is essential. Having earmuffs is excellent, but if the NRR rating is too low, you’re not getting the protection you need. So, we’re going to help you understand how noise protection works and how much you need.
While you can use many forms of ear protection, we recommend shopping for products that have an NRR rating between 15dB and 30dB. 15dB will protect you from low noises like lawnmowers, loud cars, jobsite noise, and more. On the other hand, 30dB products are designed for firearm protection during hunting and at the range.
Situations That Require Ear Protection
Knowing that your ears need protection from loud noises is a great place to start. Still, learning to apply ear protection in your life is the next step. To help you determine the level of ear protection you need, we’re going to take you through a few situations where electronic earmuffs come in handy.
Shooting at Ranges
When you’re at the shooting range, you want the best noise protection money can buy. Whether you’re indoor or outdoor, the shooting range is one of the loudest places you can be. With many different caliber firearms, noise levels can reach well over 140 decibels. Unfortunately, for your ears, this level of noise leads to long-term damage.
If you’re interested in ear protection for the shooting range, the Howard Leight Impact Pro is the best option. These earmuffs carry the best NRR rating and shield your ears from consistent levels of dangerous noise. Plus, they come with some excellent quality of life features like comfortable padding and an adjustable headband.
Hunting
Whether hunting is a hobby or a way of life for you, it’s a delicate activity that requires precision and skill. For these reasons, making sure you have the right ear protection is crucial. With hunting, you need electronic earmuffs that won’t hinder your performance or senses. Unfortunately, there aren’t many products that can filter out loud noise and give you the ability to evaluate ambient noise in your surroundings.
Still, there is one product that checks all of the boxes. The Peltor Sport Tactical 100 is that product. While it shared many features with essential electronic earmuffs, the noise amplification technology is superior. This is because the earmuffs can filter out noise generated by wind, which allows your ears to focus on more pertinent noises like shuffling leaves.
Jobsites
Jobsites can be noisy places. If you work in construction or landscaping, this is something you’ve likely noticed. While jobsite noise isn’t as bad as shooting guns, you still need to protect your ears. Many workers turn to headphones or earbuds, but these products don’t offer NRR-rated protection. The good news is that finding electronic earmuffs for jobsites is straightforward.
On jobsites, you want a product like the ZOHAN Electronic Shooting Ear Protection. This ear protection is budget-friendly, comes with ambient noise amplification, and the battery life is well over 300 hours. With these earmuffs, you don’t get premium features, but you get premium comfort, durability, and longevity.
Around the House
Even if you’re not dealing with loud noises during your hobbies or work, electronic earmuffs can be useful. Many people turn to electronic earmuffs for peace and quiet around the house. In fact, with more people working from home than ever before, creating a quiet space in your home has never been more critical. Luckily, you don’t need the most expensive or feature-rich electronic earmuffs for around the house use.
One of the best options for the house is the Mpow Electronic Shooting Ear Protection. While it’s designed for shooting, we’ve found that this pair is perfect for home use because of the rechargeable battery. Instead of scrambling for AAA batteries, you can leave it on the charger, and the battery lasts for more than 24 hours.
[Image: https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/two-yellow-protective-glasses-eyes-ears-1078417484 alt text: shooting earmuffs and safety glasses]
FAQ
What’s the Difference Between Noise Canceling Earmuffs and Headphones?
Shopping for earmuffs is tricky because you’ll come across many headphones with noise cancelation technology. While headphones can protect your ears from low sounds, they’re not designed like electronic earmuffs. This is because headphones are designed for listening to music or playing games. While they offer mild protection, they’re not strong enough for things like jobsites or shooting. Plus, headphones don’t carry NRR ratings like electronic earmuffs.
What’s the Difference Between Electronic Earmuffs and Regular Earmuffs?
One question many shoppers have is the difference between regular earmuffs and electronic earmuffs. This is because electronic earmuffs are more expensive than standard earmuffs. While the price is higher, spending the extra money is worth it because electronic earmuffs offer better performance. Electronic earmuffs come with active noise amplification for ambient noise, audio capabilities, and more.
What’s the Best Pair of Electronic Earmuffs?
Shopping for electronic earmuffs is more about finding the right fit for your personal needs, but some options are more balanced than others. For example, the Howard Leight Impact Sport Earmuff offer the best value. These earmuffs come with audio capabilities, boast an exception NRR rating, and the batteries last for over 300 hours.
Final Words
Earmuffs aren’t a product that people think about often. While this is the case, being proactive about ear protection is essential for your long-term health. Hearing aids aren’t the same as hearing through your ears, so preserving the lifespan of your eardrums is necessary.
It’s hard to find the right pair of electronic earmuffs, but this list is designed to help you narrow down your options and present the best products. The good news is that electronic earmuffs are inexpensive products. Even the best options can be budget-friendly, so feel free to try a few pairs before settling on one that you like! More

There’s a saying that owning quality tools pays dividends in the long term, and with winches, it’s especially true. Especially in more hazardous applications, such as lifting and pulling heavy weights, it’s incredibly important to have the correct tool for the job.
Come along winches are used to drag, tow, haul, or lift a heavy weight with hand power. They’re hooked to a sturdy anchor point while a system of gears and levers creates. Most winches incorporate gears and a lever to make the weight easier to load or lift, as well as some type of release to allow the cord to go back out. No matter the application, object, or the difficulty of the job, a come along winch can get it done.

Factors to Consider in a Come Along Winch
Whether you are expanding your tool arsenal, replacing a broken winch, or buying the tool for a specific use, it’s important to pick a high-quality winch with the features you’re looking for. For some, that’s a high weight limit, for others, it is a strong warranty and good attention to safety. Whatever you’re looking for, make sure you consider the following factors when shopping.
Weight Limit
The single most important consideration in a come along winch is its weight limit. At or below its limit, a winch is incredibly unlikely to fail, but once you begin to go over that limit, you can run into serious trouble, especially as a cord under tension can store a lot of energy that can be released rapidly. Do some serious thinking as to how much weight you need, as higher limits require more money and weigh a lot more.
Handle Length
Handle length isn’t just important to make sure you’ve got a decently-sized, well-made product, it’s important for leverage as well. When you hoist a winch, a longer handle will provide more leverage and make hoisting, hauling, or pulling easier.
Powered Winches
Some winches don’t use hand leverage to power their pulling action, instead using a small electric motor to apply pulling force. While they’re powered, meaning they don’t typically require much force, the type of electric motor employed is relatively weak, yielding quite low weight limits. They’re an option to be considered if you’re frequently winching midweight (half-ton and under) objects.
Winch Weight
It’s important to think about the weight of the winch itself when shopping around, as most often winches are used on the go and thus must be transported. Something you want to fit in your backpack will have a smaller weight limit than something you leave in the toolbox of your truck, for example.
Safety Features
As with any tool, safety comes first. Along with a high weight limit, you can look for a come along winch with a quick release, braided wire, rubber-coated fittings, or other safety-sensitive touches that can help you stay safe during regular use or in the unlikely event of a product failure.
Considering the following features, let’s take a look at some of our favorite come along winches on the market. Pick the right one, and you’ll end up with a reliable tool that can get you out of jams and tough spots for years to come.

Top 10 Best Come Along Winches 2021
1. Best Overall Come Along Winch: Tekton 5547 4-Ton Dual Gear Power Puller

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Why we like it: This phenomenal four-ton winch combines a four-ton weight limit with two layers of gears to easily take care of bigger loads without much effort.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Weight Limit: 2-ton/ 4-ton
Winch Weight: 13 lbs
This 4-ton dual-gear winch tops our list for one reason: its double gear power puller. So if the biggest distinguishing factor is thanks to its unique mechanics (a dual-gear winch), what is the purpose of a single gear puller, then? A single gear-puller is a geared system to turn leverage from a handle to rotational energy with gears.
Thus, a dual-gear puller distributes the load across two separate gear units, meaning it’s twice as easy to lift the same load. It’s no problem to lift multiple ton loads with just one hand, with locking pawls that prevent the load from rolling backward.
The steel cable that drives the winch is ¼-inch aircraft-grade, with a corrosion-resistant coating that can hold up to 4-tons in the heavy-duty version and 2-tons in the lightweight model. A 21-inch handle provides ample leverage, but the flat handle with a nonslip grip isn’t too comfortable to use. This is a pretty minor flaw in an excellent unit, but those who want a more luxurious experience can upgrade to the Warn Handheld Portable Drill Winch.
Thankfully, as all parts are made of galvanized steel, it will hold up incredibly well. Both hooks are galvanized with self-closing safety latches that add a bit of security to the whole system.
Safety Features
The most prominent safety feature for this pulley is one of its biggest selling points in the first place: the dual pulley system. Not only does the double pulley system make dragging or loading easier, it also provides a backup carrying method if one of the pulleys fails. You’ll have to replace it in case of a failure, but it will hold the load in a pinch. A four-ton cable and a solid metal construction only add to the confidence we have in the product.

Pros
Double gear puller is reliable and easy to use
Powerful 21-inch handle for leverage
Uses a construction of galvanized steel
Self-closing safety latches automatically for additional security

Cons
Flat handle with nonslip grip isn’t comfortable to use

2. Best Budget Come Along Winch: Maasdam Pow’R Pull 2 Ton

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Why we like it: This lightweight US-made winch is meant for lighter loads, made with advanced engineering and impressive build quality.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Weight Limit: 2 tons
Winch Weight: 8.75 lbs
This solid two-ton winch is similar to a different product made by the same manufacturer as the Maasdam Pow’r Pull Web Strap Pull’r. Instead of that winch’s web strapping, however, this winch uses heavy-duty aircraft cable to yield a higher weight limit, hauling up to two tons compared to the webbed versions one-ton limit. It’s still not as impressive as 4-ton winches such as TR Industrial Portable 4-Ton Dual Gear Power Puller, however.
The tool is USA-made, in fact, all winches from Maasdam are manufactured stateside. But the company’s reputation doesn’t just come from the location of their manufacturing facilities: the interior gear components are electro-plated, the steel hooks at both ends are drop forged, and the cable itself is aircraft-quality. Best of all, the company offers a full lifetime warranty in case of any defect or product failure.
Safety Features
The safety feature that gives us the most trust in this winch is the material and fabrication process itself: the winch body is nearly entirely made of galvanized steel. It’s still primarily held together with rivets and screws, but the whole body of this winch is a single piece of metal, meaning there’s no single piece besides the fasteners that represents a weak point. This gives it phenomenal durability at a low weight: it comes in at well under 8.75 pounds.

Pros
Aircraft cable yields a higher weight limit
American manufactured with high-quality parts
Lightweight winch weighs in at under 8.75 pounds
Galvanized steel improves both strength and weight
Full lifetime manufacturer defect warranty

Cons
Weight limit is half that of other winches

3. Best Premium Come Along Winch: Warn Handheld Portable Drill Winch

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Why we like it: This quick, versatile winch is great if you want something motor-powered but don’t want to pay the price of a dedicated electric winch.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Weight Limit: 750 lbs
Winch Weight: 13 lbs
This lightweight powered winch is a great middle-ground option for anyone looking for a lightweight yet motor-powered winch. Unlike more powerful electric winches, it’s wireless, using a handheld drill (not included) to pull weight instead of relying on plug-in shore power. Unfortunately, that means you’ll need a powered drill on hand, another cost added to the already more-expensive-than-average winch.
So what’s the bad, then? Weight limit, especially considering the winch’s high price. In fact, this 750-pound version is about double the price of its smaller sibling, the 500-pound-limit Warn 910500. It’s a lot of money for a winch that only hauls an eighth of the weight of competitor products, although admittedly, as a motor-powered drill winch, it’s in a different class. Either way, you’re paying quite a bit to lift just 750 pounds when you can get four-ton winches for under $50.
Safety Features
There are a couple of unique safety features that come with this winch and its robust price tag, all of which are rare on hand-powered winches. Firstly and most importantly, it’s got a load limiter that makes the winch nearly impossible to overwork. Pulling something overweight? The load limiter detects it and engages a ratchet, meaning you can’t pull something that’s too heavy, and thus won’t be able to drop or damage it. A free-spool clutch wraps the winch’s 30-feet of wire reliably and without overlapping, preventing it from wearing out over time.

Pros
Good middle-ground option for a lightweight yet powered winch
Doesn’t require shore power
Load limiter makes it impossible to overload the winch
Free-spool clutch wraps the wire reliably and safely

Cons
Expensive price tag and low weight limit
Requires the additional purchase of a drill

4. Easiest Come Along Winch to Use: TR Industrial Portable 4-Ton Dual Gear Power Puller

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Why we like it: This technologically advanced, well-designed winch is powerfully engineered to be both user-friendly and get the job done every time.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Weight Limit: 4 tons
Winch Weight: 12 lbs
With sturdy finishes and impressive build quality, this 4-ton puller is incredibly impressive for its price: it’s evident that no corners were cut building and designing the product. That goes for everything from the internal mechanics to the user features: the dual-gear system inspires confidence with slick, smooth ratcheting action and the hardware is all galvanized and slickly polished.
It comes in an incredibly sturdy plastic box storage case with a strong, flexible handle, making it perfect for storage in your vehicle, truck cab, or garage. This doesn’t just make it easy to transport, but also protects it from the elements. Our only problem with the winch is its short pulling distance: the device reaches maximum extension at a little over four feet, so it’s more fit for connecting heavy trailers to trucks than work at a construction site, for example.
Safety Features
While this device claims a fantastic maximum working weight of 4 tons, the truth is a little more nuanced. While the claimed maximum capacity is, indeed, a true 8,000 pounds (the manufacturer’s rated capacity), the working weight limit is just around half of that at 2 tons. That’s fine for most applications, but it feels a little deceptive: from the owner’s manual to real life, you lose 4,000 pounds of carrying capacity.

Pros
Sturdy finishes and strong build quality
Impressive design and engineering for a low price
Includes carrying case for storage and protection

Cons
Working weight limit is half of the manufacturer’s rated capacity
Maximum extension only reaches about four feet

5. Best Electric Come Along Winch: Warn PullzAll Corded 120V AC Portable Electric Winch

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Why we like it: This electric winch isn’t designed around raw lifting power, but it can be used all day long without wearing out, unlike someone using a hand-powered winch.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Weight Limit: .5 tons
Winch Weight: 15 lbs
This Chinese-made winch is one of the heaviest on our list at 15 pounds, but it’s not like the weight is there for no reason: most of the weight, in fact, comes from the electric motor it employs, which completely eliminates the need for a handle, or any human input after hooking up the anchor points, for that matter. That lack of a handle, however, means that you’ll always need shore power when using this winch.
If for any reason you need to pull an object along at quick speed, this winch works incredibly well, with a quick line speed of 13.8 feet per minute pulling quicker than most hand-powered winches, although admittedly not at any meaningfully quick space. But if you’re using a winch all day, it will definitely save you some time.
Safety Features
While this winch does have a largely plastic construction, it’s still durable and maintains a lower-than-average but still more than usable half-ton weight limit. The weak point isn’t the construction, or even the cable for that matter, but the motor itself, which will break if you even attempt pulling a heavier weight. Both hooking anchor points have automatic catches to make sure they stay in place.

Pros
Can be a huge time saver if you’re working on a day-long project
13.8 feet per minute line speed is much faster than hand-powered winches
Design eliminates the need for a handle
Anchor points have automatic catches for safety

Cons
Motor can fail when pushed to the limit
Needs to be plugged in to be used

6. Most Versatile Come Along Winch: Maasdam Pow’r Pull Web Strap Pull’r

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Why we like it: Using fabric webbing instead of steel cable on one side of this winch makes it more versatile, but lowers its maximum weight limit.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Weight Limit: 1 Ton
Winch Weight: 8.33 lbs
This winch from company Maasdam uses a slightly different format than other come along winches, with one side holding the weight with steel wire and the other side using fabric webbing. This means that you can extend the winch’s working range on the anchor side by feeding out the steel cable, simultaneously using the fabric strap for stability on the tow side.
The weight capacity, unfortunately, is capped out at one ton, as steel cabling conventionally used with winches has a higher weight capacity than web straps. That brings a weight limit penalty, but actually opens up some possibilities for anchor points. While it’s dangerous to hook a steel wire to itself, you can hook a web strap to itself, and it’s more flexible as well, especially useful when you need to use a tree or other fragile/irregular object as an anchor point.
If you need to haul over a ton, the Wyeth 3 Ton Ratchet Puller offers similar versatility with a higher weight limit, albeit with a higher price to match.
Safety Features
The strongest safety feature with this winch doesn’t protect the user at all, instead protecting the delicate nature of whatever you’re hauling. Webbing or fabric straps don’t need an anchor point, nor are they likely to wear away paint or any coating/seal of the object you’re hauling. If you’re towing something with cosmetic value, use web straps instead of a steel cable. It still relies on all of the safety features of other comparable winches.

Pros
Web strap can be hooked to itself when hauling
Can hook this winch to more delicate objects thanks to web strap
Doesn’t scratch paint or cause friction
Has the same safety features as comparable winches

Cons
Weight capacity tops out at one ton
Web strap is more susceptible to wear than metal wire

7. Safest Come Along Winch: Wyeth 3 Ton Ratchet Puller

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Why we like it: This three-ton winch doesn’t use metal cable, instead opting for a synthetic that’s both safer and easier to use than alternatives.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Weight Limit: 3 tons
Winch Weight: 24 lbs
This incredibly sturdy three-ton puller provides confidence with a thick metal construction and a wide, braided wire, enough to pull up to three tons without so much as a squeak. This comes at odds with the fact that it’s heavier than other winches at almost 24 pounds. Most of that weight is thanks to its cast construction and the large amount of rope available.
That’s one of the things we like most about this winch: its long, 35-foot cable length. Some come along winches have annoyingly short cables, yielding a winch that’s only useful when the object you’re pulling is nearby. 35 feet of rope gives you a lot of slack to play with, and you can stretch that cable across gaps, or use it to reach an object that’s offroad while keeping your machinery on concrete to get more traction. A large amount of cable does add to the device’s weight, unfortunately.
Safety Features
There’s one major difference between this puller and other options: the type of cable used. Instead of metal braided aircraft cables that store energy and can snap out violently when they fail, this winch uses a 12-strand Dyneema SK-75 fiber that’s more like a rope than a metal cable. If this rope fails (it almost certainly won’t, as it’s got a 7-ton weight limit), it breaks in a predictable way. Instead of whipping out as with metal cables, it fails perpendicular to the weight, meaning it doesn’t present a risk of hurting the winch operator. This alone justifies its high price for many users. But if you’re never lifting anything near 3 tons, it’s overkill, and a cheaper option from our list will suffice.

Pros
12-strand Dyneema SK-75 Fiber is incredibly safe to use
35 feet of rope gives you a lot of room to play with
Cast construction is durable and has no weak points.
Synthetic rope itself has a mind-blowing seven-ton weight limit

Cons
Rope and metal construction add up to a 25-pound weight
High price compared to winches with similar weight limits

8. Big Red Torin Come-Along Double Gear Hand Cable Puller

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Why we like it: This come along winch isn’t just inexpensive, but it comes with an impressive weight limit and a high-quality mechanical action.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Weight Limit: 2 ton / 4 ton
Winch Weight: 7 lbs
Cheap, strong, and high weight limits are all strong selling points for this winch, which has a completely solid steel body and long-lasting performance. The ratchet system uses a double gear system to hold weight, ideal for easy hauling as well as providing security. The winch anchors use galvanized hooks, which should inspire a great deal of confidence.
It’s got two options available as far as weight goes regarding manufacturer rated capacity, although we find the lightweight, two-ton winch to be more expensive than other options with a similar weight capacity. Both of the versions use the same body, while the smaller two-ton version uses different hardware and a different gear hand cable puller. Both count on metal aircraft wire for pulling: if you’re looking for a safer, synthetic option, consider the pricier Wyeth 3 Ton Ratchet Puller.
Safety Features
The best defense is a good offense, so a four-ton weight limit is not only impressive, but comes in at a minimal weight penalty when running around with the winch. The ratchet releases one notch at a time, which is a bit slow, but perfect for small adjustments when you need to position a heavy object. Both of these features keep you and others nearby safe.

Pros
Cheap and strong with a high four-ton weight limit
Ratchet system uses dual gears to distribute the load
Winch anchors come with galvanized hooks
Notches are perfect for minor adjustments

Cons
Version with two-ton limit is expensive for its capacity
Uses aircraft wire which can be dangerous

9. Best High-Capacity Come Along Winch: Neiko Power Cable Puller

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Why we like it: This winch is easy and secure to use with zinc-coated gears that prevent corrosion, a long handle for leverage, and a secondary hook to stabilize loads.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Weight Limit: 5 tons
Winch Weight: 13 lbs
This inexpensive winch has an incredibly impressive five-ton weight limit that makes it incredibly useful in case of emergencies, incredibly considering its lightweight construction. Unlike compact car winches like the four foot TR Industrial Portable 4-Ton Dual Gear Power Puller, which are better for automotive use, this winch’s 12-foot length is more useful in a wide variety of scenarios, but with less specificity.
Pulling all that weight, though, will require a fair bit of leverage, which comes via an extra-long handle coated in PVC. The double gear system helps make pulling heavy weights easy, and it will stay operating smoothly for years, even in rough conditions thanks to a zinc coating that prevents oxidation. A third latching hook can help distribute the weight to a secondary anchor point, stabilizing the load even further.
There’s one issue, though: the five-ton weight is a measurement under ideal scenarios, and in most real-world applications, the usable weight limit will be around 2.5 tons.
Safety Features
This winch has a host of safety features, some of which protect the user and some of which prevent catastrophic failure. Heavy-duty steel construction adds durability, while the ratcheting system has tight tooth spacing to prevent long drops. The long handle doesn’t just provide more leverage, but also more control from the user. The less the user needs to strain to lift the load, the more they can focus on the safety factors behind lifting the load itself.

Pros
User doesn’t have to strain to lift the load
Zinc coated gears prevent corrosion
Long handle with PVC coating provides leverage
Good for a wide variety of uses

Cons
Better for broad applications than specific ones
Load limit in real-world scenarios is about half of the quoted weight

10. Best Simple Come Along Winch: ABN Heavy-Duty Hand Puller with Cable Rope

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Why we like it: This reliable and simple hand puller is simple and highly capable, perfect for amateur workshops.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Weight Limit: 4 ton
Winch Weight: 11 lbs
This simple come along winch isn’t perfect by any means, but it’s an absolute workhorse with a four-ton weight limit. Its total steel construction, low price, and simplicity make it great for an amateur’s workshop, although commercial shops might look for something with a higher weight limit like the Neiko Power Cable Puller.
With the good comes the bad, although the bad is certainly manageable. It won’t fail on you all at once, but the body is largely held together by rivets that will begin to bend over time. The winch body isn’t solid, so it’s more susceptible to bending, and thus fatiguing over time. The gears are made of a galvanized steel, but the plates themselves are thin, so the ratchet might give you some trouble after extensive use. It won’t fail catastrophically, but it’s not as long-lasting as other models.
Safety Features
With a simple and useful safety manual, a well-built mechanism, and all-steel construction, it’s evident that safety was a significant design factor when producing this ABN Heavy-Duty hand puller. Beyond the normal, though, there’s nothing really unique from a safety perspective. It uses conventional aircraft cable, the same galvanized hooks as other models, and spring safety latches to make sure the hooks hang tight onto their anchor points.

Pros
Phenomenal for amateur workshops
Constructed completely of steel
Winch fatigues over time but won’t fail catastrophically
Gears are made of galvanized steel

Cons
Commercial users might want to look for something a bit more reliable
Held together by rivets that can fatigue over time
Ratchet can wear out over time due to thin gear plates

Guide to Buying the Best Come Along Winch for 2020
Buying a come-along winch is incredibly useful, but you’ve got to put some attention in to make sure you purchase the right product. Make sure to buy a winch that works for your needs, with larger weight limits being more expensive but simultaneously more capable. Keep in mind the fact that you can always use a large winch for a light object, but you can’t use a lightweight winch for a heavy object.
A Safety Note on Working Weight
While winches typically only advertise their maximum weight, it’s not the only number that matters when using this type of tool. The maximum weight of a winch is neither static nor ‘set it and forget it.’ There are really two numbers to focus on when using a come along winch: manufacturer’s rated capacity and working load limit (also known as working weight).
Manufacturer’s Rated Capacity
This weight is the number you see on your winches packaging as well as the weight that we quote in our product description. This weight is a maximum weight measured under lab scenarios with accurate equipment in highly controlled scenarios. Because it’s so precise, this measurement doesn’t take in to account real-world factors such as wind, fatigue, or poorly balanced weights. Think of this number as a hard limit that you should never exceed.
Working Weight Limit
Working weight limit is the number you’ll use in the real world when you have any doubts on the consistency of your work conditions. This is a weight limit where you can be incredibly certain that your winch will not fail, even in unique circumstances that present higher risks. It’s typically about half the Manufacturer’s Rated Capacity (MRC) and can be found in your winch’s user manual.
Come Along Winch Applications
While most come along winch buyers have a particular application in mind, come along winches are quite a bit more versatile than you could expect, useful in automotive applications, lawn and garden work, construction, and more.
Have you ever heard that phrase about an unstoppable force and an immovable object? Well, a come along winch is the closest you can get to an unstoppable force for around fifty bucks. Come along winches can be used for the following:
Loading a Trailer: Use a come along to drag or roll heavy objects up an inclined trailer ramp.
Attaching a Trailer: A come along winch can pull a heavy wheeled trailer directly in line with a hitch when hooked up properly.
Landscaping: If you can get an attachment point set up, a come along winch can pull out stumps, drag rocks, or move other heavy objects. Consider a webbed come along winch like the Maasdam Pow’r Pull Web Strap Pull’r if you’re mainly hauling objects without an anchor point.
Framing: Relatively flexible steel wiring becomes rigid under tension, making it perfect for applying leverage on objects. Use your come along to lift up framing from flat to perpendicular with the ground.
Pulling Out Dents: If you don’t have the budget for professional dent remover, purchase an inexpensive suction cup with an anchor point, then tug on the dent with a come along. Be careful, and understand it might not come out perfectly, but it can be an inexpensive way to fix a significant problem. If you’re doing this, we’d recommend something without a metal cable, like the Wyeth 3 Ton Ratchet Puller.
Getting the Most Out of Your Come Along Winch
Come along winches are a remarkably versatile tool, but oftentimes they’re thought of as a relatively singular solution to hauling problems. It’s true, to some extent: a come-along winch can only drag heavy objects in a single direction. But if you’re clever with your setup, the fact that they only work perpendicularly isn’t a disadvantage, but an advantage.
How Do I Use a Come Along Winch?
Hauling big, heavy objects can be stressful, but with a sturdy winch, it’s a lot easier. Follow your manufacturing directions regarding safety, then follow these constructions. It’s like learning any skill: with each attempt, you’ll get a lot better.
Plan Out Your Approach
Make sure you plan things out before positioning yourself, your object, and your anchor. Consider the friction of the surface, the angle, and any obstacles. Make sure you’re maximizing the friction of your anchor point (you can do this with wheel blocks or even by applying the handbrake) and minimizing the friction against the obstacle you’re hauling (putting it on wheels, for example). Finally, plan out where the object you’re holding is going to end its journey.
Hook Up Your Winch
After you’ve got your approach thought out, hook your anchor and object together. This should be a straight line if at all possible, with each side hooking up to an anchors
Clear the Area
Clearing the area is an important step that sometimes gets skipped. Clear the area of obstacles that might interfere in your tow path, but also clear the area of people who don’t need to be there.
Use Your Ratchet
Once everything is hooked up and clear, you can start. Take it slow! There’s no reason to rush it, and going quickly applies unneeded pressure on your equipment. With each turn of the rachet, your object will get slightly closer. If you hit a snag, make sure the object’s path is clear, then go back to hauling.
Unhook Your Winch
Once your object has arrived at its final point, make sure it’s stably resting and won’t move from that point. When you’re sure it’s properly situated, you can unhook your winch after releasing the tension on the wire. When in doubt, assume that the heavy object is not securely situated. Heavy objects are dangerous, and when they’re uphill, even more so.
Come Along Winch Maintenance
As tools with moving, fatiguing parts, and gears that wear out, it’s important to think a little bit about how to keep your winch in great operating condition and keeping it well lubricated. Follow these maintenance steps for some quick things that will extend the working life of your device.
Avoid Water: Water is a winch’s worst enemy, as steel oxidizes when exposed to air. This won’t only gum up the winches, making them harder to use, but also corrodes the wire, reducing its effective weight limit. Keep things adequately lubricated and only use the winch when dry if possible to minimize corrosion.
Lubrication: A come along winch doesn’t simply maintain itself. Place a light, non-viscous lubricant on moving parts to reduce corrosion and minimize friction on metal parts
Proper Alignment: Metal wire and mechanical winches themselves lose strength if they’re twisted. The flatter you can maintain your winch, the more weight it will be able to support and the less likely it will be to fail in the long term.
Come Along Winch Safety
[Image: https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/swaged-wire-rope-thimble-eye-attached-1503266219 alt text: cable and rope]
Come along winches are an incredibly useful tool, but when used incorrectly, they can be incredibly destructive. Not only will misuse drop whatever you’re pulling, but high loads on a cable mean catastrophic failure will sling that metal wire across your work area, with the potential to cut, lash, or friction burn at incredibly high speeds.
While come along winches have the potential to be dangerous, they’re not too tricky to use properly if you follow some simple rules. Make sure to abide by the following:
Watch Weight Limits: A weight limit exists for an important safety reason, and these limits are both accurate and enforced by the government. Following this guideline is simple: don’t go over the weight limit. If you’re dragging a load, make sure you’re multiplying the weight of the object by 1.5 or 2 due to the added friction force.
Never Hook the Line to Itself: Always make sure you’ve got some type of winching strap to help you anchor to a tree, post, or other sturdy object. Hooking the line to itself amplifies force and causes the wire to rub against the object, leading to a higher likelihood of failure down the line.
Inspect Your Winch: When a winch fails, it typically fails catastrophically, but it often gives signs before doing so. Before each use, give it a quick visual inspection. If there are any irregularities, don’t use it.
Probability of Failure
Winches fail in different ways, but each winch has its weakest points. It’s important to understand why and how a winch fails to mitigate the risk of it happening and harming you or your cargo.
The most common and most destructive form of failure is a cable failure, as tension causes a large amount of energy to be released when it breaks. The second most common failure is the ratchet itself, which when broken, will let out the wire cable, not catastrophic but potentially damaging your load. The least likely to fail pieces are solid metal, the winch body itself, which shear off if they fail and drop loads, but fortunately won’t release energy in the same way as a wire under tension.
Come Along Winch FAQs
Come along winches, as with all tools, have a bit of a learning curve. We answer some of the most common questions below.
How Does a Come Along Winch Work?
A come along winch works by converting leverage applied to the handle into energy rotating a ratchet, pulling on a cable that in turn pulls the object it’s attached to. The true innovation behind the device is its use of a ratchet that lets it pull one way unencumbered without slipping backwards the other direction.
How Much Weight Does a Come Along Winch Pull?
It all comes down to weight limit. Come along winches are generally rated to at least one ton, with the heavy-duty winches rated to four tons or sometimes even more. Keep in mind that this number is a vertical lifting rating, which means you can pull rolling objects of a slightly higher weight but will be limited a bit more when dragging an object. If dragging an object on a high-friction surface, multiply its weight by 1.5 to get a more accurate limit.
What’s Better, Webbing or Steel Cable?
Most come along winches come with one of two pulling mechanisms: steel cables, or sturdily synthetically-weaved web strapping. While webbing has a low weight limit and an annoying propensity to tangle up, it’s still popular. Why? It has to do with flexibility: while steel cable functions well under tension in a single direction, when it’s bent or wrapped, performance decreases. Add to this the fact that a steel cable under friction loses much of its weight tolerance, and webbing becomes an attractive alternative. For flexibility: webbing. For pulling something in a straight line? Steel cable.
How Do You Release Tension on a Come Along Winch?
Most come along winches have roughly the same type of construction, with a handle, rachet, winch body, hook, and metal cable. Because of these similarities, tension is released most often in the same way, by releasing a hook on the ratchet that extends beyond the body of the winch.
Should I Use a Come Along Winch or an Electric Car Winch?
[Image: https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/steel-wire-rope-winch-on-car-1190085757 alt text: electric car winch]
Plenty of off-roaders looking to save a couple of dollars: tires and other regular wear parts can add up, after all. So can you get away with using a come along winch? Our answer: a soft yes, but if you don’t have help, it’ll be trickier to get out of a jam with a come along winch than with a classic electric car winch.
Wrapping Up
For anyone looking to make a job pulling weight a bit easier, there is a come along winch to help them out. With proper use, an eye for safety, and a winch built to hold up, you’ll have no problem getting years and years of practical use out of the tool. More

Whether you’re hauling a commercial load, a bulky boat, or a cozy camper, backing up a trailer is a chore. And the process becomes even more challenging—if not outright impossible—when you need to squeeze a sizable trailer into a tight space.
That’s why the electric trailer dolly is such an essential accessory for everyone who tows. Rather than stressing yourself out with a hellish hundred point turn, the trailer dolly lets you navigate through narrow areas with ease. And having an attached electric motor means no more back busting attempts at moving the cargo by hand—a godsend when you’re transporting an oversized load.
You’ll find several different electric trailer dollies on the market, each with distinct pros and cons. To help you pinpoint the ideal option for you, we’ve put together an in-depth guide and reviewed the Top 8 Electric Trailer Dollies to buy in 2021.

Deciding on the Perfect Dolly
Before you start perusing our recommendations, we recommend you read up on the key features to consider. With a basic understanding of the technology, you’ll be able to make an informed decision and pick out the best option for you.
Weight Capacity
Trailer dollies have a specified weight capacity that refers to the maximum load it can support. Always work off the Gross Trailer Weight (GTW), which includes the trailer and any passengers and cargo.
Tongue Weight Capacity
Tongue Weight (TW) refers to how much weight the end of a trailer exerts onto the towing vehicle’s hitch ball or the dolly. A correctly loaded trailer should have a tongue weight that is 10-15% of the gross trailer weight.
Wheels
The number, type, and dimensions of the wheels have a significant impact on how maneuverable the dolly will be. Different wheels are ideal for different circumstances, so be sure to factor in your personal needs.
Power Source
Larger self-powered dollies with electric motors make it easier and faster to move big trailers back and forth, so aim big if you’ve got an enormous rig. Cordless drill-powered dollies are cheaper but can be slow and laborious to use.
Brakes
High-end electric trailer dollies come with a built-in automatic braking system to ensure the trailer doesn’t run astray. Cheaper, non-electric dollies tend to have inferior brakes, if any at all.
Portability
If you need to stash your dolly away inside a trailer or car, you’d be better off getting a lightweight model you can lift without straining your back. Heavy-duty dollies weigh a ton and are best left on the ground.
If you’d like to read about these in more detail, skip ahead to the key considerations section of our in-depth guide. If you’ve got the basics down, though, you should be ready to look at our list of the best electric trailer dollies on the market today.

Top 8 Best Electric Trailer Dollies 2021
1. Best Overall Trailer Dolly: Trailer Valet TVXL25 XL Trailer Dolly

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Why we like it: This affordable and agile drill-powered dolly can support up to 10,000 lbs at a time.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Weight Capacity: 10,000 lbs
Tongue Weight Capacity: 1,000 lbs
Wheels: Two 9.25” wheels
Electric Motor: Cordless drill (sold separately)
Dimensions: 28 x 12.3 x 8.9”; 54 lbs
It’s hard to find a cost-effective electric trailer dolly capable of moving a massive load—many of us don’t have thousands of dollars to splurge on a heavy-duty device. And that’s where the Trailer Valet TVXL25 XL shines: steadfast maneuverability at a fraction of the cost of the competition.
Capable of moving a 10,000 lb trailer with 1,000 lb at the hitch, it’s ideal for budget-conscious camper trailer owners who stash their rig in the garage. And the fact its lightweight 55 lb frame fits neatly inside a trailer means you can take it with you to the RV park. Of course, there’s no harm in using it on smaller loads like boats or jet skis as well.
While it’s undoubtedly a bargain, it’s essential to recognize the limitations at play.
The jacking mechanism and the wheels are powered either by hand or by an electric drill. With the former, you get precision cranking at the cost of strenuous physical effort. Attach a cordless drill, however, and it’ll do the hard work for you at high speed, but it’s far from ideal.
The drill crank tends to get stuck or skip gears, making maneuvering challenging and potentially dangerous if not done carefully (at least the automatic brake will engage when the handle is released). Your best bet is to switch between the two as needed: hand cranking for precision and the drill bit for speed.
Another pitfall is the device isn’t great for gravel surfaces; it does work beautifully on concrete, even if there’s a slight incline. If you expect to work on less than ideal surfaces, upgrading to the Trailer Valet RVR9 Motorized Trailer Dolly might be worthwhile.
Although it’s not without its drawbacks, most people won’t find a better 10,000 lb trailer dolly for the price.

Pros
Cost-effective trailer dolly
Suitable for trailers up to 10,000 lbs
Portable enough to stow inside a trailer
Good for home garage use
Works well on a slight concrete incline

Cons
Requires cordless drill (sold separately)
Drill crank mechanism is tiresome to use
Doesn’t perform well on gravel

2. Best Budget Trailer Dolly: Trailer Valet TV5X Lift Jack Electric Trailer Dolly

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Why we like it: This simple dolly is easy to use and well-suited to small loads, making it a perfect affordable entry point to the world of trailer dollies.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Weight Capacity: 5,000 lbs
Tongue Weight Capacity: 500 lbs
Wheels: Dual pneumatic tires
Electric Motor: Cordless drill
Dimensions: 8 x 26 x 17”
As one of the better value budget dollies, the Trailer Valet TV5X is perfect for positioning light loads at a low cost. It can support up to 5,000 lbs with 500 lbs on the hitch, making it ideal for boats and small trailers but not bigger RVs.
The dolly is super easy to install and can be attached to most trailers with the 8-inch mounting bracket—flip it up onto the trailer frame for fast storage after each use. High and low gears make for easier cranking on the patented drive system, while a positraction function improves handling in tight spaces.
As you’d expect at this price point, it’s a drill powered or manual crank dolly. You’ll need to purchase both a drill and the drill attachment separately, so factor these into the final price.
While it’s fantastic for maneuvering trailers on a hard flat surface like asphalt and concrete, it doesn’t do well on inclines or soft ground. Even with the cordless drill, you’ll struggle to move a trailer at the 5,000 lb limit if the surface isn’t sufficiently hard and flat. The drill attachment position is also a little too low for our liking. You’ll need to bend down and strain your back when cranking—not ideal for older users.
Nonetheless, it works well with lighter trailers on flat smooth surfaces and won’t break the bank. If you’re happy to enlist the help of a friend to position your trailer, this budget-friendly dolly is well worth considering. Those who need to lift very heavy weights or will be working alone might want to look at the Trailer Valet TVXL25 XL Trailer Dolly instead.

Pros
Cost-effective solution
Includes 8-inch mounting bracket
Easy to maneuver in tight spaces
Works well on concrete

Cons
Doesn’t work well on inclines
Only suitable for trailers under 5,000 lbs
Requires bending over to operate the drill

3. Best Premium Trailer Dolly: Trailer Valet RVR9 Motorized Trailer Dolly

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Why we like it: Parking a trailer with this beast is so easy you’ll barely have to lift a finger.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Weight Capacity: 9,000 lbs
Tongue Weight Capacity: 900 lbs
Wheels: Caterpillar treads
Electric Motor: Electric motor and remote
Dimensions: 30 x 30 x 30”; 77 lbs
The RVR9 from Trailer Valet is ideal for taking the chore out of parking a trailer. Complete with heavy-duty caterpillar treads and a tough torque-optimized electric motor, it’s easily capable of maneuvering trailers up to 9,000 lbs.
The highlight, however, is the remote control, which lets you effortlessly glide your trailer into position with a few lazy swivels of the thumb—no more arduous hand cranks here. The function makes it especially popular among solo RVers as there’s no need to enlist a spotter every time you park up. Guiding a trailer into a tight garage or car space is a one-person job with the RVR9, a benefit that justifies the high price tag for many consumers.
The unit comes with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that’ll give you 30 minutes of juice, more than enough to position a trailer. And with a remote control range of 40 feet, you don’t need to get right up close to guide it into position.
At 77 pounds, it’s relatively heavy, so don’t expect to pick the dolly up on your own.
Maneuverability, on the whole, is impressive; the RVR9 is nimble enough to pull off tight turns. Just be aware the dolly needs to be in motion to turn, and there’s a slight delay with movement and stopping upon each button push (this prevents the trailer from jerking when coming to a stop).
While the RVR9 works wonderfully on hard surfaces like concrete, it’s not suitable on dirt or grass if you’re hauling a heavy load. The unit just doesn’t get enough traction on the soft stuff, especially when the ground is damp—you might get away with using it on dry grass for light trailers, however. Gravel is doable, even with heavy loads, but you’ll need to watch out for stones getting stuck in the caterpillar treads. This won’t matter to most people, but if you’re often finding yourself on soft surfaces, the TRAX TX6000 Power Dolly could be a more reliable option.
Despite its drawbacks and the hefty price tag, the RVR9 is an awesome option for effortless trailer parking on hard surfaces like concrete; thus, it’s a winner in our book.
Looking for a different weight capacity? Trailer Valet offers other options on its website.

Pros
Trailer parking becomes a one-person job
No physical exertion required
Heavy-duty caterpillar treads
Remote control for easy maneuverability
Good for concrete and gravel

Cons
Must be in motion to turn
Can’t move heavy loads on dirt or grass
Slight delay on button press

4. Easiest Trailer Dolly to Use: Parkit360 Force ISC 5K B2 Motorized Electric Trailer Dolly

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Why we like it: With the Force ISC 5K B2, parking trailers under 5,000 lbs is a pleasure rather than a chore.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Weight Capacity: 5,000 lbs
Tongue Weight Capacity: 900 lbs
Wheels: Two 4” tires
Electric Motor: 7 horsepower
Dimensions: 30 x 15 x 55”; 123 lbs
The Force ISC 5K B2 from Parkit360 is an outstanding option for time-poor trailer owners who want hassle-free parking at home.
Powered by a beefy 1.7 horse powered electric motor, the unit is suitable for a wide range of trailers and requires virtually no physical effort to use. Pop it in neutral and wheel it to the trailer to connect to the hitch, then use the forward and reverse toggle switch to steer it into position. You’ll be facing towards the trailer while maneuvering for a broader view and can park with the hitch facing forward to deter would-be thieves.
Not only is it easy to use, but the Force ISC 5K B2 requires no fiddly installation as it’s virtually ready for action right out of the box. All you’ll need to do is connect the battery and secure the ball mount before use.
Portability is another big plus. Although the whole package weighs a hefty 123 lbs, the body without the ball, handle, and battery is just 70 lbs—light enough to lift into the trunk of your truck with a second pair of hands. It’s ultra-versatile, too, boasting compatibility with a wide range of ball mounted trailers (campers, bumper pulls, cargo trailers, boat trailers, and more).
Parkit360 is upfront with the limitations on their dollies, namely that you want to use a level surface with a maximum 4-6% incline. A steeper angle may be possible on hard concrete with a lighter trailer, but note the narrow wheels can’t withstand making turns on a slant.
A wall plug and voltmeter let you keep the battery topped up with ease, and there’s an electric surge brake controller for optimal safety.
Is this too small for your trailer? Try the 10K model from Parkit360 instead.

Pros
Powerful motor does the hard work for you
Face forwards for hassle-free precision parking
Parks with hitch forward to deter theft
Minimal installation required
Portable and versatile

Cons
Not suitable for inclines above 6%
Only for trailers up to 5,000 lbs

5. Fastest Trailer Dolly: TRAX TX6000 Power Dolly

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Why we like it: The TX6000 moves trailers up to 6,000 lbs with minimal effort and in record time.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Weight Capacity: 6,000 lbs
Tongue Weight Capacity: 600 lbs
Wheels: 5” tires and aluminum wheels
Electric Motor: 36V electric motor
As the flagship electric dolly from TRAX, this tough little unit has developed a bit of a reputation in the towing world. The TX6000 is known for its speed, capable of reaching an impressive 222 feet per minute with a full load.
If that doesn’t sound all that fast, remember that cheap electric trailer dollies cruise along at a snail-pace rate of 10-20 feet per minute or so. And the fact the TX6000 can travel several times faster makes it an attractive option for commercial towers; it’s great for moving trailers around a vast warehouse in a timely manner.
For the RVer, the extra speed isn’t entirely necessary as they’ll only be moving their trailer a short distance anyway. What the home user will adore, however, is how easy the unit is to operate. A variable thumb controlled switch on the dolly lets you navigate around tight spaces without breaking a sweat. It lasts for ages on a single charge and has an in-built LED warning light to let you know when the battery’s running low.
Another thing we love about the TX6000 is its heavy-duty design. With chunky 12.5-inch tires, a reinforced rear wheel caster, and an ingenious ball mount puzzle tab adapter, it’s remarkably robust for its size. Unlike the cheaper electric dollies out there, you’ll easily be able to move the max load limit—6,000 lbs, in this case.
And for folks who need to park up on grassy areas, the good news is this works off-road. Of course, you’ll still need a relatively flat and hard surface to work on.
On the downside, a lot of the best features aren’t included in the advertised retail price. You’ll need to fork out extra for different hitch ball types and adapters, while the battery kit and tire upgrade will set you back a pretty penny. Although these added extras enhance customization, get ready to spend big if you want one with the lot.

Pros
Fast speed of 222 feet per minute
Easy to operate
Durable and stable design
Easily withstands maximum loads

Cons
Extras add substantially to the price

6. Most Durable Trailer Dolly: Tow Tuff TMD-3500ETD Electric Trailer Dolly

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Why we like it: TMD-3500ETD is a tough little dolly that works wonderfully at lugging small trailers.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Weight Capacity: 3,500 lbs
Tongue Weight Capacity: 600 lbs
Wheels: Two 13” tires, one 8“ swivel caster
Electric Motor: 24V electric motor
Dimensions: 48 x 24 x 37“; 100.8 lbs
If you’ve got a lightweight trailer of 3,500 lbs or less, then there’s no need to spend thousands of dollars on an uber-powerful dolly. Case in point: the TMD-3500ETD from Tow Tuff does the job brilliantly for a fraction of the cost.
The crème de la crème of its durable design is the triple wheel layout, which features two beefy 13-inch tires up front and a solid rubber 8-inch swivel wheel at the back. The format provides both optimal stability and maneuverability, allowing you to park with pinpoint accuracy.
It’s pretty spritely, too, with a respectable top speed of 1.5 mph thanks to the brawny 24V motor. You don’t have to operate at max speed all the time as the switch controller features a variable speed adjustment.
Two sealed 7 AH batteries power the motor and give you plenty of juice to stow several trailers at a time. Recharging is best done overnight and is all too easy with the included 110V charger.
With an adjustable ball height of 22 to 35 inches and a universal two-inch coupler, it’s suitable for most sub 3,500 pound trailers out there—versatility is a strong point with this one.
One issue worth mentioning is the traction isn’t all that great. Try to use the Tow Tuff on a slippery or loose surface, and you can expect her to underperform. Stick to the hard, dry stuff (say, concrete), and you should be okay.

Pros
Cost-effective light trailer dolly
Fast and easy to maneuver
Effective three-wheel design for added stability
Suitable for most smaller trailers
Good battery life

Cons
Traction could be better

7. Most Maneuverable Trailer Dolly: Happybuy Trailer Mover

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Why we like it: It’s a decent low-cost dolly for maneuvering mid-sized trailers into tight spaces.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Weight Capacity: 5,000 lbs
Tongue Weight Capacity: 600 lbs
Wheels: One 8” wheel
Electric Motor: 350W 12V motor
Dimensions: 49 x 13.5 x 11.5”; 32.4 pounds
If budget is your primary consideration, then this product could be a ‘happy buy.’ The low-cost unit performs surprisingly well at maneuvering mid-sized trailers around small garages and yards, perfect for the RVer who frequently stows their rig at home.
Although it’s rated at 5,000 lbs with a 600 lbs tongue weight capacity, we advise you to approach with caution. Attempt to push the limit, and you may find it becomes unstable under the load—lighter trailers are fine, though.
Two separate control panels adjust the jockey wheel height and give the motor power, while multiple gears help you achieve ample torque. As you’d expect from a low-cost dolly, it’s only got one relatively small wheel, so you won’t get much traction once you leave the pavement. Also, note it’s not appropriate for gradients above 5 degrees.
We’re impressed by how easy the unit is to install, partly thanks to the fact it comes with handy mounting brackets that fit most trailers. Another major plus is how compact the dolly is; you won’t have any issues popping it in the boot or storage inside your travel trailer. The automatic brakes work as they should, keeping you and your trailer safe from harm.
The big downside to the dolly is durability, or lack thereof. Use it occasionally in perfect conditions (flat hard ground), and it’ll likely last for years to come. But push it to the limits, and the dolly will encounter all sorts of issues, most of which are challenging to resolve. The rocker switch, the wire connector in the handle, and the welded nut are all prone to breakage (among other things), so you better be ready to MacGyver some DIY repairs.
And that’s why the Happybuy is so cheap: it works well until it breaks, at which point you’ll need to figure out how to fix it or buy a new one.

Pros
Easy to maneuver with two separate controls
Simple to install with included mounting brackets
Effective automatic brakes
Compact and lightweight

Cons
Has trouble supporting the full 5,000 lb limit
Various parts are prone to wear and tear
Doesn’t perform well off-road or on inclines

8. Best Simple Trailer Dolly: Biltek Trailer Mover 350W

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Why we like it: This low-cost electric dolly does the job for light trailers on hard, flat terrain.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Weight Capacity: 5,000 lbs
Max Jockey Wheel Load: 600 lbs
Wheels: 8-inch solid rubber wheel
Electric Motor: 350W 12V motor
Dimensions: 74 x 12.6 x 10.6”; 35.28 lbs
The first thing that might attract you to the Trailer Mover 350W from Biltek is the low price. Coming in at a fraction of the cost of some of our favorite electric trailer dollies, it’s an enticing option for cash-strapped towers. And while it’s easy to use with light trailers on hard concrete surfaces, the device does have its downsides.
First off, the airless rubber tire and flimsy jockey wheel make the dolly struggle to support the advertised 600 lb tongue capacity—give it a miss if you’re trailer is pushing the upper limit.
It also doesn’t come with any mounting brackets, meaning you’ll be forced to drill holes into the trailer frame. Depending on the contour of your trailer, that may require considerable DIY skills. And, consequently, the mount is bound to rattle around and offers inadequate grip.
We also wish there was some way to swing the dolly up underneath the trailer when driving. It’s a pain in the neck to reattach it each time.
On the plus side, the motor is plenty powerful, and it is relatively easy to maneuver around. The button control handle is intuitive to use, and the automatic brake function works as expected. It comes with a key-lock system, which is handy if you’re worried about theft.
All in all, it’s a decent dolly for the price. Just be sure to stick to hard flat surfaces (concrete or dry grass) and don’t go anywhere near the 600 lb jockey wheel limit.

Pros
Super low-cost electric dolly
Easy to maneuver handle
Powerful and reliable motor
Braking system works well

Cons
Jockey wheel doesn’t support the advertised weight
Mounting requires drilling holes
Can’t swing up for driving

Everything You Need To Know About Trailer Dollies
An electric trailer dolly requires a considerable financial outlay, so it’s in your best interest to thoroughly research the technology before making a purchase. To help you understand the finer details of this uber-convenient accessory, we’ve put together an in-depth Electric Trailer Dolly Buyer’s Guide.
What Is an Electric Trailer Dolly?
[Image: https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/car-open-trailer-store-that-sells-1743738083 Alt-Text: A trailer dolly on a small trailer]
It’s all in the name: an electric-powered dolly for trailers. While a truck or SUV is your best bet for transporting a trailer over a large distance, a dolly allows you to navigate narrow angles over a short stretch—perfect for parking in tight spaces.
The Benefits of an Electric Trailer Dolly
Although they don’t come cheap, a trailer dolly is a worthy investment for anyone who needs to position their trailer into a confined space. Let’s take a quick look at the key advantages of the device.
Wide Range of Motion
When positioning a trailer with a truck, you have limited freedom of movement and may need to perform multiple adjustments to achieve the desired angle. A good dolly like the Parkit360 Force ISC 5K B2 Motorized Electric Trailer Dolly gives you a 360-degree range of motion, enabling you to maneuver the trailer in sharp angles that would be otherwise unachievable.
Less Physical Effort
An electric motor cranks the trailer up and down so you can easily couple it to the hitch without having to exert physical force. Electric dollies also have a motor connected to the wheels, which lets you move it around with a remote or switch instead of strenuous manual pushing.
This mechanized design is beneficial for large trailers that are too heavy to crank or maneuver by hand. Elderly RVers who lack the physical strength to maneuver a trailer manually are especially fond of the devices.
Safer and Less Stressful
Backing up a trailer is a challenging endeavor; one wrong move could see you bump into an obstacle and damage your rig. Positioning a trailer with a dolly, on the other hand, is relatively easy, and you’re unlikely to bash into anything in the process. And that equates to fewer costly repair bills and less stress when it comes time to uncouple your load.
Versatility
Electric trailer dollies are compatible with numerous trailer types, allowing you to use the one dolly on several different trailers. So long as it exceeds the relevant gross trailer and tongue weight, there’s a good chance your dolly will work with most trailer types out there. Nonetheless, it pays to do your due diligence and thoroughly research compatibility before you buy.
Electric Trailer Dolly Versus Manual Trailer Dolly: Which Option Is Best for You?
Is it worth splashing out on a high-tech electric trailer dolly when the manual variety costs a fraction of the price.
There’s no right or wrong answer; it all depends on your personal circumstances. Let’s look at what factors you should consider when deciding whether to get an electric or manual trailer dolly.
Budget
Electric trailer dollies don’t come cheap, with the high-end models costing several thousands of dollars. Then you’ve got maintenance costs to consider as you’re bound to encounter issues eventually with prolonged use.
Manual trailer dollies go for several hundred dollars, making them a viable alternative when money is tight. One excellent low-cost option is to get a manual trailer dolly you can power with a cordless drill. These won’t break the bank, nor your back when it comes time to crank the trailer.
Trailer Size
If you’ve got a tiny little trailer to haul something like a jet ski or a small load of commercial supplies, you’ll probably do okay without an electric dolly. Pint-sized trailers are easy enough to crank and maneuver by hand, so you won’t necessarily need assistance from an electric motor.
Big commercial trailers and bulky RVs, however, are incredibly cumbersome. Hand cranking a 10,000 lb load takes a considerable amount of time and physical effort—but it’s all too easy with the help of an electric motor.
Usage Frequency
If you only use your trailer a couple of times per year, it might be hard to justify forking out thousands just to make the coupling and positioning process easier. Some infrequent towers are prepared to put up with a manual trailer dolly because they rarely have to suffer through the process.
Folks who uncouple their trailers every single day—think industrial workers and full-time RVers—would get much more value out of the investment. The time and effort saved with each uncoupling would quickly make the purchase worthwhile.
Electric Trailer Dollies: The Key Considerations
[Image: https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/aerial-top-view-photo-inflatable-speed-1431306875 Alt-Text: A truck backing a boat into a lake]
Take the following factors into account before purchasing an electric dolly for your trailer.
Weight Capacity
The most crucial thing to consider with an electric trailer dolly is the weight capacity, which refers to how many pounds the device can withstand. If you overload a dolly, you run the risk of buckling the jockey wheel due to excess force, severely damaging it and the trailer in the process and potentially causing injury or death.
It’s important to note the figure to consider is Gross Trailer Weight (GTW), which refers to how much your trailer weighs when fully loaded. Take your trailer to a weigh station to learn how heavy it is when you’re hauling your boat, jet ski, or whatever other cargo you’d typically carry. If you’re towing a camper, be sure to factor in food, furniture, and a full tank of fuel and water.
Tongue Weight Capacity
Tongue weight (TW) refers to the weight exerted on the dolly hitch. A properly loaded trailer should have a tongue weight that’s approximately 10-15% of the Gross Trailer Weight (GTW). If your trailer GTW is 10,000 lbs, for example, then the TW will ideally be about 1,000-1,500 lbs.
Important: the ideal tongue weight also depends on the type of hitch. A bumper pull trailer should have a TW that’s 5-10% of the GTW, while a gooseneck TW should be 15-20% of the GTW.
However, you can’t assume your TW will be the correct percentage of the GTW. The way the trailer has been loaded has a significant effect on tongue weight. An incorrectly loaded trailer will put too much pressure on the hitch, potentially causing it to snap—severe damage, injury, or death may ensue. Another disastrous consequence of a poorly configured load is trailer sway, a common cause of towing accidents.
The easiest way to check your tongue weight is to bring your trailer to a weigh station and pay a fee of $10 or so. If you regularly need to check tongue weight (which is common for commercial towers), then it’s worth investing in a tongue weight scale so you can do it yourself. These nifty devices save frequent towers time and money in the long run.
Wheels
The number of wheels on your dolly will affect how much weight it can support. While smaller, low-capacity dollies tend to have a basic configuration, high-end models use heavy-duty wheels.
Basic dollies, for example, only require one small wheel to support a relatively low load capacity. As the weight increases, it puts extra pressure on the tires; thus, a second wheel (or sometimes a third) is typical on medium-sized dollies.
For extra heavy-duty dollies made for supporting massive loads, the preferred set up is the caterpillar-style wheel design. Although expensive, these can move huge trailers around with ease and still retain an impressive range of motion.
Size matters, too. Bigger wheels provide more support and enhance the overall longevity of the product.
Motor
Cheap electric dollies require you to crank the wheels and hitch with a cordless drill, while the top-end models include an advanced electric motor with plenty of grunt.
The big advantage, of course, is an in-built motor negates the need to push the trailer yourself at any time—a challenging task when you’re working with a high GTW. The price difference is pretty significant; however, so some trailer owners prefer the cheaper option.
The electric motor is often measured in horsepower or watts, with the higher numbers equating to more juice.
Brakes
The last thing you want is for your enormous trailer to start rolling downhill the moment you uncouple it from your truck. To prevent this potentially deadly situation from arising, electric trailer dollies have brakes built into the system.
High-end dollies designed for heavy loads have advanced braking systems that automatically engage when required. Cheaper dollies tend to have less sophisticated brakes, which the user may need to set themselves.
It’s always wise to double-check the brakes are correctly engaged before leaving a trailer unattended.
Portability
The ideal size and weight depend on what you’re planning on using the trailer for. If you need a dolly for your camper or fifth wheeler, then look for something relatively small you can pick up and put inside after each use. The same logic applies if you’re towing a recreational vehicle like a boat, jet ski, or ATV—you want a dolly you can fit in the trunk of your car.
Industrial towers, on the other hand, do most of their dolly work in the warehouse. Therefore, a big dolly that’s too heavy to lift isn’t a problem as it’ll remain on site.
If you’re planning on bringing your dolly with you, look at something compact like the Happybuy Trailer Mover.
Electric Trailer Dolly FAQ
If you’ve still got questions about the electric trailer dolly, there’s a good chance we’ve covered them in our FAQ.
What Is the Best Electric Trailer Dolly?
The ideal electric trailer dolly depends on your requirements, so be sure to factor in things like size, price, usage frequency, and trailer weight. We rate the Trailer Valet TVXL25 XL as the best electric trailer dolly overall for its portability, affordability, and heavy-duty design.
How Much Is an Electric Trailer Dolly?
Electric trailer dollies range from about $250 for a basic model to $4,000 plus for a top of a line machine. Take a read through our in-depth Buyer’s Guide to determine what features you need.
Can You Move a Trailer Traveler by Hand?
While it’s possible to move a lightweight travel trailer by hand with a manual dolly, it’s certainly not easy—the backbreaking process requires plenty of muscle power. Even a bodybuilder would struggle to move a big trailer with a manual dolly—the electric motors come in handy here.
What Is a Power Trailer?
A power trailer refers to any sort of motorized dolly mechanism, whether it runs on electricity or gas. Power trailers are useful for moving big trailers that are too heavy to maneuver by hand.
What Is a Trailer Valet?
Trailer Valet is the name of a well-regarded company that manufactures electric trailer dollies. We review multiple Trailer Valet products on our Top 8 List.
The Best Electric Trailer Dollies: Final Thoughts
An electric trailer dolly uses a motor to jack and maneuver a heavy trailer on your behalf, turning the once backbreaking chore into a breeze. And for frequent towers, that saves a significant amount of time and money, making the investment entirely worthwhile.
Take the time to review our in-depth Buyer’s Guide to get up to speed on the finer details of the device. Next, it’s time to scroll through our Top 8 Recommendations and pick out the perfect product for you.
With the right electric trailer dolly at hand, you won’t have the stress about the nerve-wracking and exhausting task of positioning a trailer in place. The machine takes care of all the hard stuff on your behalf, allowing you to focus your attention elsewhere. More

Who wouldn’t want to cruise around our country in a big shiny RV? Checking out breathtaking national parks by day and sipping cold beer by the campfire come nightfall; it’s the American dream. But as luxurious as a massive RV can be, there’s one big downside: you’ll struggle to find parking outside the campgrounds.
Day trips, grocery runs, and inner-city exploration all become a chore when you’re sitting behind the wheel of a 30-foot rig.
But thankfully, there’s a viable solution to this age-old conundrum: towing a vehicle behind you as you go. With a towed vehicle, you can set up camp with your RV and scoot off in a smaller ride to explore the sights. Comfort at the campsite and mobility during the day—the best of both worlds.
But it’s not as easy as hooking up an SUV to your RV hitch and hitting the road; the law requires you to install and utilize a towed vehicle braking system.
In this article, we’ll discuss the details of the supplementary braking system in our in-depth guide. And once you’re up to speed, we’ll walk you through the best products on the market today so you can pick out the perfect option for you.

Factors to Consider When Purchasing a Towed Braking System
Before you start sifting through our top recommendations, it’s essential to understand the primary features to consider. Only then will you have the necessary expertise to identify the ideal auxiliary braking system for your needs.
Compatibility
Although auxiliary braking systems work with most vehicle makes and models, you still need to ensure your preferred product is compatible. It’s crucial to check brake compatibility, too; some models only work with certain brake types.
Portable or Permanent
Do you plan on switching between different towing vehicles, or are you more likely to stick with the same one? You can quickly move portable systems between multiple cars, while a professional mechanic must hardwire permanent solutions.
Braking System Type
Towed vehicle braking systems come in three main types: proportional, direct, and progressive. For the everyday RVer, these aren’t quite as crucial to consider as the portable versus permanent choice. Nonetheless, it’s worth acquiring a basic understanding of how each system type works.
Proportional
This supplementary braking system monitors the towing vehicle’s acceleration and deceleration, then applies the toad brakes proportionally. The system monitors the RV brakes via an in-built accelerometer or sensor, which automatically evaluates how much pressure has been applied. Consequently, both systems exert the same amount of braking power at the same time.
These don’t require any adjustment once installed, but they tend to perform poorly with hybrid or power-assisted brakes.
Progressive
This auxiliary braking system begins applying increasing (progressive) pressure on the toad vehicle brakes when it registers pressure on the towing vehicle brakes. The longer the towing vehicle brakes are depressed, the longer the toad vehicle will brake. However, the toad vehicle will eventually stop braking at a predetermined point to preserve its brakes from excessive wear and tear.
The drawback to this cost-effective option is it essentially estimates how long the towing vehicle has been braking, so it isn’t entirely accurate. It also causes undue wear and tear on the toad vehicle, despite the fact it disengages them to prevent overheating.
Direct
A direct towing vehicle braking system is hardwired into the RV brakes to mimic exactly what the latter is doing. The pressure exerted on the RV pedal gets replicated in a 1:1 ratio on the toad pedal, making it exceptionally accurate. This method largely avoids under-braking and over-braking the toad, making it safer than the other options.
On the downside, it’s only suitable for permanent towed vehicle braking systems and may void the warranty of your toad.
Weight & Size
If you’re using a portable towed vehicle braking system, you constantly move it back and forth. Therefore, it’s sensible to aim for a lightweight and compact model that’s easy to transport. Portability isn’t a priority with permanent hardwired systems.
Emergency Breakaway System
An emergency breakaway system will automatically engage the towed vehicle brakes should it uncouple from your RV. This potentially life-saving safety feature prevents a loose towed vehicle from careening into oncoming cars or pedestrians.
Cost
Cash strapped RVers might opt for a cheap portable system to save money, even if it’s not necessarily the ideal option. If you’re in a favorable financial position and plan on using the same towed vehicle for some time, a high-end permanent model is your best bet.
Now that you know what to keep in mind, let’s take a look at our picks for the best products available today.

Top 8 Best Towed Vehicle Braking Systems 2021
1. Best Overall Braking System: Roadmaster 8700 Invisibrake Hidden Power Braking System

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Why we like it: It’s a brilliant permanent system that provides optimal convenience and safe towing for years on end.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Portable or Permanent: Permanent
Brake Compatibility: Vacuum powered breaks
Braking System Type: Progressive breaking
Emergency Breakaway: Yes
Dimensions: 5 x 12.5 x 7 inches; 15.6 pounds
This high-end progressive braking system from Roadmaster offers superb functionality for vacuum-powered brakes.
The permanent braking system is installed out of sight and takes advantage of existing electrical connections on your toad and motorhome. What’s more, it’ll bypass the 12V system to recharge your toad battery on the road—never worry about running it flat en route to the campsite again.
The thing we love most about the InvisiBrake, though, is it’s a highly comprehensive solution. Once she’s installed in your toad, you won’t have to disconnect anything ever again—much more convenient than a portable model.
The unit includes an emergency breakaway system for optimal safety and is easily adjustable to suit personal braking preferences.
On the downside, it’s not at all easy to install. Even a skilled mechanic could spend hours getting it done, and we don’t recommend DIY unless you’re an auto pro. If you’re not exceptionally handy and don’t want to pay for installation, we recommend something easier to set up like the Blue Ox Patriot 3 Brake System. It’s also annoying that the motorhome brake lights come on and activate the unit while engine braking—hardly a deal-breaker, though.

Pros
Convenient and comprehensive system
Ready to go each day without connecting anything
Will recharge battery while driving
Adjustable braking preferences
Includes emergency breakaway system

Cons
Difficult to install
RV Engine brake activates toad brakes

2. Best Premium Braking System: Blue Ox BRK2019 Patriot 3 Brake System

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Why we like it: It’s compatible with most cars and works better than other portable braking systems on the market.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Portable or Permanent: Portable
Brake Compatibility: Most cars, including hybrids
Braking System Type: Proportional
Emergency Breakaway: Yes
Dimensions: 21 x 13 x 10 inches; 14.04 pounds
Although expensive, the BRK2019 Patriot 3 is worth every penny for RVers after a portable supplementary breaking solution.
The state-of-the-art setup automatically monitors brake pressure while towing and slows your toad accordingly, resulting in a smoother and safer ride. Plus, its all-electric design makes for faster response times, which could save your life in an emergency.
The system gets top marks for compatibility as it works well with virtually any car, including newfangled hybrids.
It’s an excellent solution for non-mechanically minded RVers as the technology is remarkably easy to use. All you need to do for installation is position the Patriot in the driver’s seat, put the claw on the brake pedal, run through the setup, and then put the control unit in the RV—even grandma could work that out.
We also love how you can fine-tune the brake settings from the control unit as you drive, as that’s not a common feature on portable units.
Hooking up the emergency breakaway does require wiring, although it’s worth the hassle for the added peace of mind. Those who don’t want to mess with that will need to pay a professional to help or choose an even easier to install system, like the Roadmaster 9400 Even Brake System.

Pros
Easy to install
Simple to use
Effective and safe braking
Compatible with most cars

Cons
Expensive
Breakaway requires wiring

3. Best Budget Braking System: Roadmaster 9160 Brakemaster Towed Car Braking System

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Why we like it: This tiny portable system from Roadmaster does a beautiful job for a low price.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Portable or Permanent: Portable
Brake Compatibility: Air brakes
Braking System Type: Proportional
Emergency Breakaway: Yes
Dimensions: 15 x 11 x 15 inches; 11 pounds
If you don’t have a thousand bucks to spare on a towed vehicle braking system, then take a look at this nifty little number from Roadmaster. Coming in at a fraction of the cost of the competition, it’s a budget-friendly way to remain legally compliant and safe on the roads.
The proportional system works on most air brakes by monitoring the tow vehicle’s braking power and emulating it on the toad. It’s especially effective when towing larger toads, so keep that in mind if you’re hauling a bulky SUV. And considering the low price point at play, the brakes work wonderfully well and don’t make you feel like you’re pulling a toad at all—extra points for comfort!
As much as we love it, the unit does have one major drawback: the installation is a nightmare. Even an expert automobile DIYer would spend several frustrating hours getting the mechanism set up. More likely, you’ll have to enlist professional help, and that’ll only add to the overall cost. Once it’s set up, though, it’s super easy to move in and out of your ride.
This model comes with an emergency breakaway feature, which we highly recommend. Still, if you don’t feel you need it, then grab the 9100 Brakemaster instead (it’s exactly the same sans the emergency breakaway).

Pros
Cost-effective brake system
Works on almost all air brake RVs
Good for larger toads
Doesn’t feel like towing
Includes emergency breakaway

Cons
Hard to install

4. Best Braking System for Air Brakes: Demco 9599007 Air Force One Braking System

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Why we like it: This high-end permanent system offers outstanding air brake performance and won’t void your RV warranty.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Portable or Permanent: Permanent
Brake Compatibility: Air brakes
Braking System Type: Direct braking
Dimensions: 17 x 13 x 9 inches; 51 pounds
If you’re looking for a high-performance auxiliary air brake compatible system, then look no further than the 9599007 Air Force One. Good enough for the President of the United States (probably), this upmarket system affords awe-inspiring direct braking action on all air brake motorhomes. You’ll relish in a comfortable and safe ride as a result.
Another thing we love about this American-made product is it’s one of the only air brake systems that won’t void the chassis warranty on your RV upon installation. Also, the braking system has a lengthy five-year warranty to ensure both investments are adequately protected. And that’s reason enough to buy this unit in our book.
It’s a painful device to install, even if you’ve got plenty of practice working on automobiles. Keen DIYers without automotive experience would be better off outsourcing the job to a professional—trust us, your sanity depends on it.
Once it’s installed, you won’t have to worry about a thing as there are no moving parts to tweak or settings to configure, making it a complete turn-key solution.

Pros
Doesn’t void motorhome warranty
Works well on air brake RVs
Made in the USA
Five-year warranty
Safe and comfortable towing experience

Cons
Very difficult to install

5. Best Braking System for Hydraulic Brakes: Demco 9599006 Stay-in-Play Duo Braking System

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Why we like it: The Demco Stay-in-Play harnesses two separate braking technologies for a safe and comfortable tow.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Portable or Permanent: Permanent
Brake Compatibility: Hydraulic
Braking System Type: Progressive and proportional
Dimensions: 17 x 13 x 9 inches; 11 pounds
While most towed vehicle braking systems work on either a proportional or progressive system, the Stay-in-Play takes a different approach. This interesting option from DEMCO is both progressive and proportional, a unique design that optimizes safety and durability on the road.
The system draws upon a potent dose of air pressure to activate the brake pedal on the toad, then uses a vacuum to power the braking system. It only kicks in when it detects both deceleration and the brake light, making it more accurate than other options out there. Also, your toad vehicle won’t apply the brakes during engine braking from the RV, which helps immensely on those steep downhill descents.
It’s relatively easy to install for a permanent system—if you’ve got mechanical expertise, you could certainly have a shot at DIY. Another considerable advantage is convenience, as all you have to do is flick on the switch before setting off on your adventures each day.
The mid-range unit is reliable overall but will require maintenance from time to time. The brake pedal cable is prone to snapping, for example, although it’s not hard at all to replace.
Note that this unit is a newer, rebranded version of the SMI 99251 Stay-in-Play.

Pros
Both progressive and proportional
Uses air and vacuum technology
Requires deceleration and brake lights to engage
Doesn’t engage when engine braking
Convenient and easy to install

Cons
Some parts may need maintenance

6. Most Even Braking System: Roadmaster 9400 Even Brake System

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Why we like it: This powerful portable proportional system brakes evenly every time and doesn’t provoke excessive wear and tear.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Portable or Permanent: Portable
Brake Compatibility: Compatible with most toads
Braking System Type: Proportional
Emergency Breakaway: Yes
Dimensions: 3 x 12.7 x 12.5 inches; 22.3 pounds
Roadmaster makes a wide range of superb supplementary braking systems, and the 9400 is no exception.
Although it costs about twice the price of our top budget pick, the Roadmaster 9160 is worth the extra expense. Frequent RVers who are happy to spend a bit extra on a quality portable system tend to love the device for its performance and durability.
The proportional system does an outstanding job at evenly applying the brakes on both vehicles simultaneously. Consequently, you’ll enjoy a safer and more predictable towing experience without wearing down the brake pads on your RV or toad.
The system is compatible with most toads, although it’s worth double-checking the chart on their website to make sure it’ll work with yours.
You get a dashboard monitor as part of the deal to install in your RV, allowing you to tweak the configurations while on the road. Although the instructions aren’t the best, the initial installation is easy enough for the average DIYer to attempt. Swapping the unit between toads is simple, too, as it disconnects and reconnects in seconds.
One downside is there’s no in-built system to keep your toad batteries charged up. It does at least feature a warning light on the motorhome dash display to let you know when the voltage drops low. If your battery reaches a critical level, it’ll automatically go into sleep mode (it’s still ready to engage for emergency braking).
These sorts of even braking systems aren’t ideal at altitude, so give it a miss and upgrade to the Blue Ox BRK2019 Patriot 3 Brake System if you spend most of your days up in the hills.

Pros
High-quality portable system
Even and predictable braking
Quickly swaps between toads
Easy installation
Compatible with most toads

Cons
Can run toad battery flat
Not effective at altitude

7. Best Permanent Braking System: Hopkins 39530 BrakeBuddy Stealth

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Why we like it: This awesome option from Hopkins sits stealthily out of sight and doubles as a trailer brake system.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Portable or Permanent: Permanent
Brake Compatibility: Most cars
Braking System Type: Progressive
Emergency Breakaway: Yes
Dimensions: 16 x 16 x 7.5 inches; 15 pounds
The BrakeBuddy Stealth is an excellent permanent option for RVers who want a supplementary braking system that’s hidden from sight. The untrained eye won’t even notice these stealthy auxiliary brakes, and the unit is super easy to use—a true ‘set it and forget it’ solution.
Although the initial installation takes a while and may require professional help, the system is super-fast and easy to engage once it’s ready to go. All you need to do is plug the adapter in and hook up the tow bar, a process that takes one minute or less.
It’s a high-performance progressive system; thus, the unit will detect changes in inertia and apply the brakes accordingly. A vacuum pump replenishes the vacuum system to ensure consistent and reliable braking operation for years to come.
We appreciate that this unit comes with a battery maintainer and disconnect kit, as you’ll never worry about draining your toad flat.
Another big highlight is the device works well as a proportion trailer brake controller—you’re not limited to using it just on your toad. Of course, as it’s a permanent solution, it won’t be easy to move between vehicles. Nonetheless, it’s an excellent backup to have if you expect to upgrade to a trailer further down the track.

Pros
Sits almost entirely out of sight
Easy to engage for each use
Includes battery maintainer
Doubles as a trailer brake controller

Cons
Installation isn’t easy

8. Best Portable Braking System: Roadmaster 9700 Supplemental Braking System

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Why we like it: It’s simple to switch between vehicles and comes with an emergency breakaway system.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Portable or Permanent: Portable
Brake Compatibility: Suitable for most cars
Braking System Type: Progressive
Emergency Breakaway System: Yes
Dimensions: 25 x 13.5 x 16 inches; 20 pounds
The 9700 from Roadmaster is an excellent option if you want a user-friendly portable with an emergency breakaway system included in the deal.
This unit runs on a basic progressive braking system, which means it applies a preset value of pressure upon detecting the brake lights being engaged. That means it doesn’t quite brake as smoothly or consistently as the Roadmaster 9400 (or other high-end proportional systems), but it’s still good enough for most users’ needs.
The big advantage to this is portability as it slides easily into the pedal area of most cars and is a cinch to move between vehicles. The initial installation is also relatively straightforward—it shouldn’t take an experienced DIYer much more than an hour to set up.
Another cool feature is the three pressure sensitivity and PSI presets you can pre-program before use: light, medium, or heavy braking. Aim high if you’re hauling a giant toad or cruising down steep mountainous slopes.
The emergency breakaway system works well, overriding the presets to deliver maximum braking pressure in the event of a breakaway.
It’s a bit bulkier than other portable systems, so we recommend you double-check whether it’ll fit into the allocated space.

Pros
User-friendly system
Relatively simple to install
Easy to move between vehicles
Includes emergency breakaway
Multiple pressure/PSI sensitivity presets

Cons
Doesn’t perform as well as proportional systems
Bulkier than other portable systems

Towed Vehicle Braking System Guide
Before you pony up and purchase a towed vehicle braking system for your ride, it’s worth studying the details of the technology. And to help you learn the ropes with optimal efficiency, we’ve pieced together this in-depth Buyer’s Guide.
[Image: https://www.shutterstock.com/image-illustration/destruction-bay-lake-luxury-rv-motorhome-1698004429 Alt-Text: Towed vehicle braking system on an RV]
What Is a Towed Vehicle?
Let’s start with the fundamentals.
A towed vehicle refers to an automobile that’s towed behind a larger automobile. To classify, the towed vehicle must have all four wheels on the ground, not on a hook, wheel lift, or flatbed as you’d see on a tow truck. Typically, the towed vehicle connects to the towing vehicle via an A-frame and sits a short distance behind it.
While any large vehicle can tow a smaller car, the four-wheels-on-the-ground towing style we’re talking about is almost exclusively seen in RVs. Having a smaller vehicle in tow allows travelers to park their big rig at the RV park and explore their surroundings in a more agile automobile.
In the RV world, a popular slang term for the towed vehicle is a “toad.” Some folks call them “dinghies,” a reference to the little boats you see being towed behind larger ships.
What Is a Towed Vehicle Braking System?
A towed vehicle braking system is a mechanical contraption that enables the RV driver to apply the brakes on the towed vehicle as well as the RV. The procedure takes advantage of the toad’s existing brakes; it merely provides a mechanism to activate them when needed.
The towed vehicle braking system is either portable (installed every time you drive) or permanent (hardwired into the toad).
Other common names include an auxiliary braking system or a supplementary braking system.
The Benefits of a Towed Vehicle Braking System
Your massive RV has already got a solid set of brakes. Therefore, you don’t need to bother hooking up the brakes on your tiny little toad, right?
Wrong.
Not only does a towed vehicle braking system make your RV safer and more durable, it’s also a legal requirement in most US states.
A Better Braking System
A fully loaded Class A RV weighs anywhere between 16,000 to 30,000 pounds. Regardless of how good its brakes are, it’s going to take a long time to come to a complete halt. Chuck on an extra 3,000 pounds or so (the average weight of a towed vehicle), and it’ll take significantly longer still.
Installing a towed vehicle braking system allows the driver to engage both the RV and toad brakes simultaneously, significantly reducing the time it takes to slow down. The reduced braking distance not only makes the RV more comfortable to drive, but it could also save your life in an emergency as well.
Less Wear and Tear
Although Class A RVs tend to come with heavy-duty brakes to handle a hefty load, they’re not designed to withstand the additional pressure exerted by a towed vehicle. Even though it may only weigh a fraction of the RV, the toad vehicle’s extra pounds will result in excessive wear and tear on the RV brakes.
If you install a towed vehicle braking system, however, you’ll spread the braking work over two separate systems. That will prevent any of your brakes from overheating and substantially reduce the degradation of your brake pads. A towed vehicle braking system also reduces the pressure exerted on your tow bar, meaning you’ll need to replace it less often.
Even though a towed vehicle braking system is a considerable immediate expense, it’ll reduce the service intervals and overall maintenance costs, potentially saving you money in the long run.
The Law Often Requires It
All US states and territories place restrictions on the weight you can haul without having a towed vehicle braking system installed. The exact limits vary from state to state, and they’re probably more stringent than you think.
Bear in mind you’ll need to abide by the laws of the state you’re in, not where you’re from or where your vehicle is registered. So if you’re planning a cross-continental road trip with your toad, it’s almost certain you’ll be breaking the law somewhere if you don’t have such a system installed.
If you believe a highway patrol officer would never pull you over to check compliance, then think about what would happen if you were in an accident. You’d automatically be at fault, and your insurance would become null and void. That would cost you a fortune in the event of a severe accident and could see you facing jail if there were any injuries or death. It’s just not worth the risk.
How To Determine Towed Braking System Compatibility
Although towed vehicle braking systems are designed to be as versatile as possible, not every product will work with every make and model. It’s up to the buyer (that’s you) to research whether a system is compatible with their would-be toad.
Portable systems tend to be more universal than permanent ones, so be especially thorough with your research if you’re going down the hardwired route.
Some Amazon sellers include a handy tool at the top of the page that tells you whether the product is compatible with your car’s make and model. Not all products offer this, however, in which case you can contact the seller directly, leave a question via the customer questions and answers tab, or consult the manufacturer website.
You’ll also need to check what brake types your preferred towed vehicle braking system is compatible with. For example, the Demco 9599006 is only suitable for hydraulic brakes, while the Demco 9599007 only works with air brakes.
Permanent Versus Portable Towed Vehicle Braking Systems: Which Is Best for You?
[Image: https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/home-hill-queensland-australia-june-23rd-1119063695 Alt-Text: RV with a toad]
When purchasing a towed vehicle braking system, you need to decide whether you want a portable or permanent device. Each works differently and has distinct pros and cons, which we’ll outline below.
Portable Towed Vehicle Braking Systems
The portable towed vehicle braking system is a budget-friendly and versatile option, but it comes at the cost of convenience. As the unit is positioned by the toad’s brake pedals, you’ll need to remove it every time you drive your smaller vehicle, then insert it again when you take off in your RV.
The big benefit of the portable system is you can quickly move it between toads. If you’ve got multiple automobiles you’d like to tow behind your RV, you can transfer the braking system between them—no need to hardwire one into each car. That’s super handy if you’ve got a big family in which several relatives want to use your RV with their own toad. And if you upgrade your toad further down the track, moving the system into the new vehicle will be a breeze.
Another plus is the price. Portable systems tend to be cheaper than their hardwired counterparts and don’t require an expensive professional installation. Some RVers opt for the portable system based on price alone, even if it isn’t the most convenient solution.
The insertion and removal process is designed to be as quick and painless as possible and doesn’t require any specialist skills. Nonetheless, it’ll still take 10 minutes or so, and that becomes tiresome when you’re switching between campsites frequently.
There’s also an initial one-time installation that takes an hour or so, although it doesn’t usually require much mechanical knowledge.
Pros:
Can be moved between different toads
Doesn’t require professional installation
Cheaper than a hardwired system
Cons:
Needs to be inserted/removed frequently
Inconvenient when changing campsites
Who Should Buy A Portable Towed Vehicle Braking System?
RVers who expect to tow multiple different vehicles or plan to purchase a new toad soon should probably get a portable braking system. It’s also an enticing option when price is a primary consideration.
Permanent Towed Vehicle Braking Systems
As the name implies, these are designed to be permanently installed (hardwired) into the towed vehicle and RV. It’s a technical process that requires the expertise of a mechanic (or a mechanically minded DIYer), typically taking several hours to complete.
The obvious drawback is you’ll need to fork out for a pricey professional installation or spend a whole afternoon, if not longer, attempting a DIY install (you’ll need exceptional auto electrical expertise).
And once you’ve installed it into your toad, it’s an arduous task to take it out again. Reinstallation takes just as long as installation; therefore, these are generally intended to permanently be left in place. If you upgrade to a new toad, transferring a hardwired towed vehicle braking system will cost you dearly.
On the plus side, a hardwired system is a true ‘set it and forget it’ solution. Once it’s in, you won’t have to stuff around moving a portable system back and forth and finding somewhere to store it. Your permanent towed vehicle braking system will always be there at the ready, and you’ll spend less time fiddling around when you set up camp. Furthermore, as they’re tucked away in a secluded spot within the toad, you won’t lose any storage space.
Pros:
Only requires one installation
Saves time when setting up/packing down camp
Hassle-free long term solution
Doesn’t take up storage space
Cons:
Requires pricey professional installation
Cannot be quickly moved between toads
Who Should Buy a Permanent Towed Vehicle Braking System?
RVers who only have one toad and don’t plan on upgrading it soon would benefit from the convenience of a towed vehicle braking system.
Emergency Breakaway System
The best towed vehicle braking systems come with an emergency breakaway feature for enhanced safety on the road.
Should your A-frame tow bar snap while driving, a breakaway system will automatically apply the brakes on your toad. This stops the driverless vehicle from flying across the highway at breakneck speed and potentially causing a deadly collision.
With a breakaway system installed, a runaway toad will quickly come to a halt without (hopefully) hitting anything along the way. It doesn’t offer failsafe protection, but it certainly does decrease the danger in a breakaway event.
Battery Drain
Many supplemental braking systems hook into the starter battery of the car for juice.
The downside to this design is that with extended use—say, a cross country road trip in which you rarely turn on the toad’s engine—the starter battery may run flat, and you’ll need to jump or push start it to regain power. If you drive your toad at least a little bit every time you make camp, you should charge the battery up enough to avoid running it flat.
Some auxiliary braking systems include a battery maintainer or bypass the toad starter battery by drawing 12V power elsewhere. Doing so means the toad battery won’t drain while being towed, and you’ll never have to worry about it running flat.
Other systems include an indicator light on the RV dash panel to alert the driver of an impending flat battery. That way, you can pull over and turn on your toad engine to avoid running its battery flat.
Towed Vehicle Braking System: FAQ
If you’ve still got questions about the towed vehicle braking system, take a look through the following FAQ.
What Is Best Braking System for Towed Vehicle?
Although the best towed vehicle braking system depends on your personal circumstances, we rate some units more highly than others. The Roadmaster 8700 is our favorite option overall for its effective braking mechanism and affordable price tag.
What States Require a Braking System on a Towed Vehicle?
All US states and Canadian territories except Missouri require brakes on towed vehicles under certain conditions. Some states require a braking system for towed vehicles above a specific weight, while others base requirements off the braking distance of the RV and attached toad.
Can You Flat Tow a Jeep Wrangler?
Yes. All Jeep Wranglers and Gladiators are suitable toads. You’ll need to attach the appropriate A-frame and a compatible towed vehicle braking system.
Can You Flat Tow a Jeep Without Brakes?
Probably not, but it depends on which state you’re in. Most states only allow flat towing without brakes up to a specific weight limit.
Does Towing a Car Put Miles on it?
Nope. Towing a Jeep or any other towed vehicle won’t put miles on the odometer.
What’s the Best Vehicle To Flat Tow Behind an RV?
The best vehicle for flat towing comes down to personal preference. Nonetheless, the Jeep Wrangler is among the most popular flat towing options as it’s easy to hook up and relatively petite.
Best Towed Vehicle Braking Systems: Final Thoughts
By now, you know all the essential details of the towed vehicle braking system: what it is, why you need one, how they work, and the different types available on the market.
All that’s left to do now is factor in the key considerations and peruse our top 8 Recommendations to pick out the perfect system for you. Once you’ve got a brand spanking new auxiliary brake system installed in your toad, you’ll be ready to hit the road in a safe and legally compliant way. More