Planning to use wood to build structures in your garden? Looking to create a rustic wood-themed garden fence? Looking to store firewood for the winter season? Well, you are aware of the immense amount of effort required to chop logs of wood with an ax. The constant shoulder stress makes it impossible for gardeners to chop, maintain, and stack large logs of wood.
Getting an electric log splitter is a sure-shot way to eliminate the physical stress required when chopping wood. Besides, an electric splitter is also less noisy, emits zero fumes, and can assist in cutting down massive logs within a couple of minutes. One can also use a hydraulic log splitter for huge blocks of wood.
An electric log splitter can complete a log chopping task 10x faster than a person with a wedge or ax could accomplish. Choose a wood splitter based on your most common usage purpose. For example, cutting wood for the cold season months would require a low-priced, low-force, and low log-capacity log splitter, whereas gardeners who deal with frequent deadfalls must spend a little more and go for a high-capacity machine.
We have curated a list of the 6 best electric log splitters reviews to help simplify your buying experience. Each of these products has varied electric power ratings for splitting wood, different diameters of the wheels, and chopping various sizes of wood.
Comparison Table and Runner Ups
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | FEATURES | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Boss Industrial ES7T20 Electric Log Splitter | • 1492 Watts powered motor: 2 HP • One-handed operation | |
 | Wen 56207 6.5 Ton Electric Log Splitter | • 15A motor • Usable with or without 34-inch stand • Efficient auto-return cylinder mechanism | |
 | Powerhouse Log Splitters XM-580 | • 15A motor • Usable with or without 34-inch stand • Efficient auto-return cylinder mechanism | |
 | Sun Joe LJ602E | • 15A motor • Driving force of 5 tons • Strong grip handle | |
 | Southland Outdoor SELS60 Power Splitter | • 2900 Watts powered motor: 4 HP • Patented hydraulic ram makeover • 9-ton log splitting capacity | |
 | Swisher LS22E Timber Brute Eco Split | • 13 seconds cutting cycle • 120V electric motor • Secure cradle for logging wood |
6 Best Electric Log Splitter Reviews
1. Boss Industrial ES7T20 Electric Log Splitter 7-Tonne
- Powerful 2 HP electric motor
- 7 tons of splitting force
Boss Industrial has designed a splitter than can split logs with a force of 7-ton. The solid construction and weather-proof materials used, make it a long-term piece of equipment amongst your other gardening tools. The manufacturer has designed this product using its patented systems to offer consistency in high performance.
The structure of this splitter makes it super-easy to place anywhere and carry out wood chopping tasks. The legs and the wheels provide sufficient stability even on uneven and rocky terrains.
The cutting wedge, made of quality steel, is the prime reason for the reduction in the work-load for log cutting tasks. Being 5 inches thick, it chops right through most wood types. If you are looking for a secure log splitting machine, then the in-built side railings will make sure you get the much-needed security.
Most importantly, the front handle allows the user to easily carry the log splitter around without having to bring the logs to the machine each time.
TOP 3 FEATURES
- Automated Ram Return
The ram is mounted to the bottom and has solid teeth to keep the cutting movement in precise flow. This makes way for an automatic wedge retrieval after each slice.
- Oil Tube
There is an oil tube attached that acts as an inlet filter. This helps smoothen out the chopping mechanism and reduces any existing noise.
- Sturdy Log Holder
The entire log placement section is cornered by metallic parts to make sure you get the exact slice you are looking for.
- One-hand operation for handle switch activation
- Heavy-duty steel tubes and brackets
- Quality frame built cannot be broken by falls or mismanagement
- 7-ton splitting force
- Entire motor wiring is of copper
- Low ground clearance requires some bodily efforts
- Splitting wedge section is not long enough
2. WEN 56207 6.5-Ton Black Electric Log Splitter
- Powerful 15A motor provides over 13,000 pounds of log cracking pressure
- Use the log splitter with or without the 34-inch stand depending on user preferences
13,000 pounds of pressure to break through thick logs? This WEN electric log splitter is a good choice for gardeners who need to crack plenty of strong wood types. This splitter comes with a detachable stand measuring up to 34 inches. Thus giving users the option to sit or stand when operating the machine. For example, people who have high stacks of wood to be chopped can use the standing position and reduce bending instances.
These electrical log splitters are powered using 15 A motors capable of giving an output of 2.5 HP. These numbers allow to machine to give out a splitting force of 6.5 tons.
When not using the stand, the wheels force the main body to adapt to a grounded position. Above all, say goodbye to those days of smoking carburetors and low-power motors. The 14.75-inch tubular stroke is sure to function smoothly throughout the product life cycle.
These electric hydraulic log splitters come with wheels made of solid rubber that can never go flat. When transporting, all you got to do is drag the splitter with its comfortable pull-handle. Besides, the compact size of the splitter assures most backyard owners can easily create storage space (check out these wheelbarrow storage ideas for some tips).
Additionally, due to the support wings, 5-inch wedge, compact circuit breaker, and 20.5-inch main beam, this product is a strong candidate for the best electric wood splitter.
TOP 3 FEATURES
- Accuracy
The heavy-duty wedge slices through strong wood at a sharp 45-degree angle. This ensures no uneven splitting when splitting for aesthetical purposes such as a kennel, mini shed, or fence.
- High Power
The 15-amp motor can generate approximately 13,000 pounds of pressure. All this comes with a 20-second cycle time.
- Versatility
The 34-inch attachable stand offers the user two usage options. One while standing and the other while sitting. The 4-inch split-activation plate can be adjusted to reduce cycle time and increase efficiency.
- Portable design
- Easy usability with zero starting issues
- Thick 5-inch wheels ensure smooth transport
- Comes with a 2-year warranty
- Two-handed operation for safety purposes
- Assembly can be a hassle
- Cotter pins for wheels are made of soft materials
3. Powerhouse Log Splitters XM-580 9 Ton Electrical Hydraulic Horizontal Log Splitter
- Motor: 4HP, 2900 Watts - no running out of gas and starts every time
- New patented hydraulic system increases torque by 45%
If you are looking for a splitter that gives a high torque output, then this log splitting machine is sure to provide you just that. All credits to the patented hydraulic system! The absence of an air compressor makes the unit a quiet one along with no reason to let out fumes.
This splitter uses a foot lever/pedal to activate the splitting mechanism. Literally, the only work you will have to do is place the log on the beam. Its low ground clearance design makes sure that users don’t have to keep lifting wood to a height. Even an amateur can operate this machinery and split logs with ultimate ease.
Compactness is another desirable trait of this splitter. Couple this with its exceptional portability and you have a quick solution for all your tasks that require splitting logs. You can simply place it on a bench, in the shed, or even carry it to the forest.
The front stand can be adjusted as per the tilt you want. This allows users to make more precise cuts at the desired angle.
TOP 3 FEATURES
- High Splitting Force
Unless you are looking to split 16 to 20 inches of tree trunks, the 9 ton of splitting force offered will help slice most branches and below 16” diameter logs.
- High Horsepower
The ability to generate 2900 watts worth of power helps achieve quicker and uniform slicing.
- Foot Pedal
This feature erases the need for the user to include any hand movement, except for placing the wood on the beam.
- Compact and high performance
- Convenient to use, carry, and store
- Splits larger “all-night” long pieces easily
- Affordable price
- Seller may send the same product with a lower splitting force
4. Sun Joe LJ602E 5-Ton 15-Amp Green Electric Log Splitter w/ Hydraulic Ram
- [LARGE CAPACITY]: Splits logs up to 20.5 in. Long x 10 in. Wide
- [POWERFUL]: 15-amp motor with a 5-ton maximum splitting force
Sun Joe is known for making the best electric log splitters due to the durable materials used in the construction process. Each of their splitters is known to last through the roughest of weather conditions without a trace of corrosion (this doesn’t mean you don’t store them well).
With an ability to hold logs of length and diameter of 20.5 and 10 inches respectively, this works well for most gardeners that require splitting moderately big logs. The structure consists of 2 rear wheels with a strategically placed extra rubber layer. This helps find stability while moving across a range of surfaces. You can also take it in and out of your garden shed with minimal discomfort and maximum ease.
Despite having 6-inch wheels and a heavy-duty beam, this splitter weighs only 92.6 pounds. These electric splitters also showcase an impressive circuit management feature. There is a reset button that manages circuit overload and reduces the chances of electrical damage.
In temperatures such as -20 degrees Celsius, one should be using low viscosity hydraulic fluids (oil). This helps is greater splitting effectiveness. Also, this log splitter has been inspected and approved as per ETL standards.
TOP 3 FEATURES
- Durability
Very few log splitters come with a trustworthy weather-proof construction. Being outdoor equipment specialists, Sun Joe has assured that all their log splitters are of top-notch quality.
- High Performance
Not many electric log splitters in this price range can exhibit a 5-ton splitting force while also letting the user regulate the cycle time.
- Smooth Wheels
Wheels are designed to adapt to most terrains. Whether it’s wet mud, rocky terrain, or your patio region, expect least troubles in moving this splitter around.
- Helpful hydraulics management hacks in the instruction manual
- Considerable power output
- Splitter is delivered assembled
- Easy to use and navigate
- Cycle time can be regulatedCycle time can be regulated
- Super low ground clearance
- May not work in temperatures below 48 degrees Fahrenheit
5. Southland Outdoor Power Equipment SELS60 6 Ton Red Electric Log Splitter
- Heavy duty 1.75 HP, 15 amp induction motor delivers maximum performance for the most rugged condition
- Effortlessly does big splitting jobs with a 18-second cycle time
This electric log splitter stands out due to its storage capabilities. The extended handles under the wheels come with a plastic attachment that helps give the splitter stability in a standing posture. All you got to do is erect the electric log splitter with these attachments as the main support. For gardeners who prefer storing gardening equipment vertically, this is a perfect buy.
Besides storing vertically, you can even use the stability to perform splitting operations vertically. Whether one uses it horizontally or vertically, it entirely depends on personalized user preference.
The wedge is manufactured using heavy-duty steel and its 5-inch thickness proves to split wood of most kinds. Rated at 1.75 HP by a 15 amp motor that works on a voltage of 120 V, you can expect splitting to be done with ease.
Having 7” wheels, the unique storage solution becomes more reliable as the splitter gets a trusted base to sustain its weight. Speaking of loading capacity, you can expect to fit logs that measure a maximum of 20.5 inches in length. Although be informed, 6 tons of splitting force may be more than needed for logs of 20.5 inches in length and 3 to 6-inch diameter.
TOP 3 FEATURES
- Adjustable Stroke Limiter
If you require cutting small and big logs then the ability to regulate the stroke length will be of significant help in improving efficiency. Now you have no need to buy a separate small log splitter.
- Cycle Time
All it takes is 18 seconds for splitting big logs of wood and getting ready for the next chopping cycle. This is much faster than what a human would take to split wood using an ax and limited arm strength.
- Vertical Storage
If you have designed a mini shed and have a lack of space to store additional gardening equipment, then the choice to store this splitter in an erect posture could ease your storage troubles.
- Heavy-duty built
- High performance working
- Automatic retract at the same speed as forwarding push
- Splitter requires minimal assembly
- Auto-shutdown when maximum pressure is attained
- Receiving tray would help vertical cutting posture
- Ram needs frequent lubrication
6. Swisher LS22E 120V Timber Brute Eco Split Black Electric Log Splitter 22 Ton
- 120V Electric Motor
- 22 Ton Horizontal & Vertical Splitting Positions provides ample splitting force for all wood species
This splitter works in a fashion that permits users to perform splitting tasks with up to 22 tons of splitting force. When you combine this force execution capacity with the presence of a 1” steel compounded wedge, you can be sure of slicing through different kinds of wood. Another added benefit is the ability to use it in a horizontal and vertical splitting position. Either way, you can expect identical performance, it’s just a matter of personal preference.
This hydraulic log splitter can hold approximately 2.5 gallons of fluid and is also rust-resistant. This ensures you won’t be struggling with a splitter that powers off quickly due to poor fluid retaining capacity.
The only two steps you have to take are lifting the splitter with the attached beam handle and locking it with the vertical beam holder. The presence of rails on either side ensures these electric log splitters do not let your logs slide out.
Additionally, this electric log splitter follows a direct drive mechanism. Thus, most of the movement is on the behalf of the wedge. This reduces the number of moving parts and makes it a safer option. Also, the 2 stage pump may increase the cycle time but it comes with a definite assurance of splitting logs of big sizes too.
Be warned, you will not be provided any hydraulic fluid nor will the splitter be delivered assembled. You will have to use the instruction manual and assemble the few parts that are provided.
TOP 3 FEATURES
- Road Towable
This log splitting machine has a high loading capacity hook attached on the end opposite to the tires. The main purpose of this is to make the splitter a towable piece of equipment. As long as the towing vehicle doesn’t travel at a speed above 45 km per hour, all is well.
- Vertical Beam Lock
This additional lock makes sure that your logs will not fall off while splitting in the vertical position. It’s acceptable for 6 ton and 7-ton splitters to not have this feature, but for a 22-ton electric log splitter, it is a must.
- Quality Hydraulic Tank
Besides having a 2.5-gallon storage capacity, this tank is also built with high-quality materials. This erases the possibility of structural damage and disruptive tank leakages.
- Ease of use design
- The opening is measured at 25”
- 2 stages of pumping increases cycle time and effectiveness
- Low maintenance motor
- Identical to gas splitters in size and function
- No bumper to discard jammed logs on the wedge
- Air collects in the fluid tank during longer running times
Buying Guide: Best Electric Log Splitters
There are several factors one must look into when planning to invest in a quality electric wood splitter. The more relevant the factors are to your purpose of usage, the better a purchase you will make.
Elements such as the cycle time, number of hands to operate the splitter, splitting force, and weight of various electric log splitters should be the influencing factors of your purchase. We have made a detailed list of some points that you must verify when looking for electric log splitters.
Type Of Wood You Are Splitting
Different types of wood come with their own individual breaking points where they can be sliced. If you are looking for an electric log splitter for your backyard, then chances are you would have only one type of wood growing in your vicinity. Make sure to choose an electric wood splitter that is made specifically for the kind of wood that grows in your region of residence.
If you choose a splitter with an extra high or low splitting force, you would land up with uneven, non-uniform, and untidy cuts. Here are few examples of an electric log splitters compatibility with different wood types.
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Hardwoods: This category of trees comprises of oak, balsa, mahogany, black walnut, teak, etc. These wood types are much more solid and tougher to breakdown. Small-sized electric log splitters could face permanent damage if a slightly heavy dose of hardwood is placed. Hardwoods typically require larger splitters that have the surface area and force-generating ability.
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Softwoods: This category of trees comprises of spruce, redwood, juniper, pine, etc. Each of these wood types is comparatively weaker from the insides. In some cases, a couple of swings using an ax is enough to penetrate and split softwood logs. If you are surrounded by this wood type then a basic electric log splitter should suffice.
Log Length and Diameter
Imagine buying a 10-ton electric log splitter only to realize that it cannot hold logs more than 8 inches in diameter. What a waste right?
Most of the electric log splitters that we have given reviews on are capable of holding logs of a diameter ranging from 10 to 12 inches. This is done because since most gardeners have to deal with softwood logs, they are bound to work with logs in this diameter range.
You must be wondering what determines the log length and diameter specifications. Factors such as the cradle length, vertical splitting system design, wedge measurements and material, and the splitting force would usually decide the log specifications the splitter can handle.
As this guide is curated for gardeners, we do not expect logs above 20 to 25 inches in length to be used. In case you are splitting logs that are longer, you can simply slice them with an ax or chainsaw before using the electric log splitter. This helps avoid the need of purchasing a bigger and costlier splitter.
Single Or Double Handed Operating
Whether your log splitting tool comes with a single or double hand operating system will decide how safe and easy to use it is. Factually speaking, every manufacturer can build a single-hand operated splitter as all the user needs to do is pull the ram lever to put the splitter into action mode.
However, many manufacturers prioritize safety way more than ease of use. They provide expert-recommended double-hand operating designs. One hand is for pulling the ram lever and the other hand is for activating another lever that puts the splitting motion into action. This constant need for two hands will minimize the possibility of getting your hands in the dangerous area.
Although, based on your working style and multi-tasking skills, either of these options can be more effective for you.
Splitting Force
You can get force 4, force 12, or even force 22 log splitters. The numbers indicate the tons of splitting force the splitter is capable of. The most common choice is the force 7 tons of splitting machine. This suffices for most softwood splitting applications.
Remember, it is highly important to know the amount of power the splitter can exert as this would be a key component in figuring whether you can work with your day-to-day wood sizes.
For people looking to chop 6-inch diameter logs, a 6-ton electric wood splitter would do the job, Whereas if you are looking to slice 12-inch diameter logs, go for 13+ ton log splitters.
Cycle Time
Cycle time is the duration an electric log splitter takes to finish one split and to re-activate and restart after one splitting action is completed. The cycle time for a generic electric wood splitter could vary from anything between 12 to 26 seconds. Do not fall for the misconception that states splitting logs with a machine that has a lower cycle time is ideal.
Obviously, it may seem like you can work faster if the cycle duration is quick. But the fact remains that by the time you remove the split logs and replace a new log, the cycle time would usually be completed. Besides only removing and replacing the wood, one would also do it in an accurate and proper manner to avoid log mismanagement. All these factors easily sum up to around 20 to 30 seconds.
Boss Industrial splitters are known to have longer cycle time durations than the other brands we have reviewed above.
Type of Splitter
Electric log splitters are of 3 types and each type has its own benefits.
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Horizontal Log Splitter: This type of splitter is a common favorite and can be recognized when the cradle bed is parallel to the surface beneath. The major drawback of this splitter type is that users have to lift each piece of log and place it into the cradle. This could lead to some level of physical stress and beat the purpose. This is also why these splitter types are usually cheaper.
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Vertical Log Splitter: This type of log splitter overcomes the drawback mentioned above. Besides, heavier and bulkier logs can be simply rolled into the beam placed in a vertical manner. This reduces physical strain and helps split logs efficiently.
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Versatile Log Splitter: A versatile electric log splitter would be capable of functioning in a horizontal and vertical position. This could also offer 2 storage solutions and help make wiser use of space in your garden shed.
The odds of small electric log splitters being adaptable to a vertical position is not only low but ridiculously unsafe. Make sure you follow the usage instructions on the product advertisement to avoid unfortunate injuries.
Warranty
Last but not the least, look for an electric log splitter that comes with a fully-covered warranty. You want to make sure your investment is worthy and lasts for the long term. Besides, repairing electric log splitters could be a costly affair and lead to recurring problems.
If you have a 6-ton electric log splitter then you must be provided with a reasonably fair 2 year warranty period. But if you have a splitter that uses more force, try and contact the manufacturer to check for deals that offer extended warranties. This could save you plenty of money in the event your electric log splitter malfunctions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are electric log splitters any good?
Electric log splitters are extremely helpful when it comes to splitting multiple logs in one sitting. If a single human could split 20 logs an hour with an ax, then the same human could split 60 logs in an hour using a quality electric log splitter.
How powerful of a log splitter do I need?
The power specifications of your log splitter are directly proportional to your wood type and the size of the logs you use. Smaller logs can do with a low power log splitter. Whereas larger logs need the splitter to be able to give a higher power output. Similarly, softwood and hardwood require low power and high power log splitters respectively.
How to use a log splitter?
Using a log splitter is a simple process. Once you choose a log that will fit into the splitter cradle, make sure to slice the ends of the log before placing it. This will keep the chance of irregular edges at bay. Finally, place it in the cradle and pull the ram lever.
How should I maintain my electric log splitter?
Maintaining your electric log splitter requires you to replace or refill the hydraulic fluid in periodic intervals. Most often, it is advised to use 10W hydraulic fluid as these liquids maintain their potency and form throughout the spectrum of harsh weather conditions. Each time you switch the log splitter on, use the dipstick to check where the fluid line stands.
What gauge should I look for to help me extend the length of the power cord?
If you want to extend your power cord, look for a thicker gauge with a rating of 12. If you use a less thick gauge such as a 14 or 16 gauge, the lower wire surface area would not be enough to consume the power needed for the electric motors.
How do I move an electric log splitter?
The way you can move your electric log splitter depends on its overall design. Every review we have written above comes with a pair of wheels for easy splitter navigation. If you require moving longer distances, consider getting a towable hook or truck hitch at the back of your electric log splitter.
Conclusion
Now that you are aware of the specifics and must-know factors of the best electric log splitters, it should be simpler to make a valuable purchase. Kudos to choosing a log splitter than runs on electricity and not gasoline. The benefits of this decision will be reaped by your surrounding environment.
Carrying out plenty of rigorous wood-splitting? Consider getting your hands on one of these lawn sweepers to maintain backyard cleanliness at all times.
Even better, if you are left back with ample wooden chips then these chipper shredders could be an efficient way of disposing and recycling garden waste.