Best Battery for ATV with Winch: The Ultimate 2025 Guide

Your ATV winch is only as strong as the battery behind it. Whether you’re hauling logs, rescuing buddies, or just getting unstuck from another mud pit, the last thing you want is a dead battery at the worst time.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best battery for ATV with winch in 2025. Read on to learn what works, what doesn’t, and how to choose the right one.

Recommended Read: Testing an ATV Battery – The Right Way

Why Your Winch Needs the Right Battery: Don’t Let Power Fail You

If you think any old ATV battery will run your winch, you’re in for a rude awakening.

Winches draw a ton of current in short bursts—sometimes 200 to 400 amps depending on load and winch size. A weak battery might power your headlights, but when it comes to winching, you need something that packs both cranking amps and reserve power.

Using an underpowered or wrong-type battery could mean:

• Burnt-out solenoids
• Weak winch pulls
• Battery failure mid-recovery (aka nightmare fuel)

Bottom line: your winch is only as good as the battery feeding it.

Recommended Read: Best ATV Battery Brands & Premium Models

Types of Batteries for ATVs with Winches: What You Really Need

Not all ATV batteries are built the same—especially when you’re throwing a power-hungry winch into the mix. The right battery type can make the difference between pulling your ATV out of a mud pit or burning out your system halfway through. Let’s break down the most common battery types and how they handle winch use.

Lead-Acid (Flooded)

Tried-and-true, but a little high-maintenance.

These are the classic batteries most people are familiar with—the kind you’ll find in older vehicles or budget ATVs. They’re cheap, available at every auto parts store, and get the job done for basic riding. But throw a winch into the equation and they start to show their weaknesses.

• Pros: Cheapest option; easy to find just about anywhere.
• Cons: Prone to spillage, needs regular maintenance, and struggles in rough or cold conditions.

Verdict: Works for light-duty use, but not the best call if you’re winching often or in extreme environments.

AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat)

The go-to for off-roaders who want reliability and zero fuss.

AGM batteries are like the all-terrain tires of the battery world—tough, sealed, and built for abuse. They deliver strong bursts of power, handle vibrations like a champ, and require no maintenance. Perfect for riders who winch regularly and don’t want to worry about babying their battery.

• Pros: Maintenance-free, sealed (no leaks!), vibration-resistant, great power output.
• Cons: Costs a bit more upfront, but pays off long-term.

Verdict: Ideal for ATVs with winches. If you’re serious about off-roading, go AGM and don’t look back.

Lithium-Ion (LiFePO4)

Light, powerful, and modern—but needs a little extra care in the cold.

Lithium batteries are newer to the ATV scene but gaining serious traction, especially among racers and performance-focused riders. They’re feather-light and recharge super fast. However, not all of them love freezing temps, so if you’re riding in the snow, make sure you get a cold-weather-rated model.

• Pros: Ultra-light, fast charging, holds charge for months.
• Cons: Expensive, some models underperform in cold unless warmed up first.

Verdict: Great for weight-conscious riders or tech lovers, but make sure it’s winch-rated and cold-ready if you go this route.

Starting, Deep Cycle, or Dual Purpose?

Choosing the right battery class is just as important as the type. Here’s what you need to know:

• Starting Battery: Delivers a quick jolt to start your engine. Not great for long winch pulls—drains fast.
• Deep Cycle: Designed for sustained power over time. Perfect for winches, lights, and other accessories.
• Dual Purpose: A mix of both—gives a strong start and powers your winch without draining too fast.

Verdict: Go dual-purpose if you’re only running one battery. If you’re building a dual setup, pair a starting battery with a deep-cycle one for the best of both worlds.

Key Features to Look For in a Battery for ATV with Winch

When it comes to powering your ATV winch, the specs on the battery label matter—a lot more than you’d think. Don’t just grab whatever fits in your battery box. Checking for these key features will help you separate the duds from the real powerhouses. Here’s what really matters:

• Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): Measures how well the battery performs in freezing temps. Higher = better, especially for winter riding.
• Amp Hours (AH): Think of it as the battery’s fuel tank. More amps draw means longer winching or accessory use before draining.
• Reserve Capacity (RC): How long the battery can run when the alternator dies—great for standalone use.
• Vibration Resistance: Off-roading = bumps = battery death unless it’s built for it.
• Maintenance Needs: Sealed > Not Sealed. Period.
• Temperature Tolerance: Cold-weather ratings really matter if you’re riding in snow or sub-zero temps.
• Physical Size: Make sure the battery fits your ATV’s tray and terminal layout—because even the best battery is useless if it doesn’t physically fit.

Our Top 10 ATV Winch Battery Picks (Quick Reference)

Don’t have time to deep dive into every detail? No problem, this table has you covered. This quick-reference chart compares the 10 best ATV batteries for winch use—side by side—so you can spot what fits your needs fast. 

Battery	Type	CCA	Capacity (Ah)	Weight	Best For	Not Ideal For
Odyssey PC545	AGM	150	13	~11.5 lbs	Heavy-duty winching in extreme weather	Budget-conscious buyers
Yuasa YTX14-BS	AGM	200	12	~10 lbs	Reliable all-around use	Deep-cycle demands
Antigravity ATX12-HD	Lithium	480	~12 (efficiency)	~3 lbs	Lightweight, tech-packed performance	Extreme cold (without warming)
Mighty Max YTX14AH	AGM	230	12	~10.1 lbs	Affordable winch support	Frequent winching
Deka ETX14	AGM	200	12	~11 lbs	Rugged, trail-heavy riding	High-capacity demands
Weize YTX14AH-BS	AGM	240	12	~9.9 lbs	Best bang for the buck	Cold-weather reliability
Renegade RG30L-WS	AGM / Deep	400	30	~23 lbs	Standalone winch use or dual setups	Smaller ATV compartments
NOCO NLP14	Lithium	500	4 (LiFePO4)	~2.2 lbs	Fast charging and long-term storage	Cold climates
Chrome Battery YTX12-BS	AGM	180	10	~8.5 lbs	Light-duty winch setups	High-draw applications
Power Sonic PTX14BS-FS	AGM	220	12	~10 lbs	All-weather reliability at fair price	Extreme winch pulling

Best ATV Batteries for Winch Use – [2025 Update]

Here’s the part you came for—real picks for real riders.

1. Odyssey PC545 Powersports Battery

Key Specifications:

• Type: AGM
• Voltage: 12V
• Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): 150
• Capacity: 13Ah
• Vibration-resistant, spill-proof
• Long cycle life (up to 400 cycles at 80% depth)
• Rugged brass terminals for durability

Why it’s impressive:
Built for power and punishment, the Odyssey PC545 delivers deep-cycle endurance and strong bursts of starting power—ideal for winching under tough conditions. It’s compact yet incredibly dense, with stable performance in freezing cold or hot climates. This one’s trusted by serious off-roaders for a reason.

Best for: Heavy-duty winching and cold weather

Downside: It’s more expensive than standard ATV batteries.

2. Yuasa YTX14-BS

Key Specifications:

• Type: AGM
• Voltage: 12V
• Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): 200
• Capacity: 12Ah
• Spill-proof, factory-activated
• Durable lead-calcium design
• Maintenance-free

Why it’s impressive:
This battery is a fan favorite for a reason—it cranks strong, handles light winch use with ease, and doesn’t ask for much in return. The YTX14-BS offers consistent voltage and solid longevity for riders who want reliability without breaking the bank.

Best for: Reliable performance on a budget

Downside: Not designed for deep-cycle or repeated heavy winch pulls.

3. Antigravity ATX12-HD RE-START

Key Specifications:

• Type: Lithium-Ion (LiFePO4)
• Voltage: 12V
• Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): 480
• Built-in jump-start/restart technology
• Ultra-lightweight design
• 5x faster charging than lead-acid
• Vibration/impact resistant

Why it’s impressive:
This tech-packed lithium battery brings insane power-to-weight ratio and smart features like built-in jump-start protection. It’s perfect for riders who want high performance without adding bulk. Ideal for modern ATV setups with extra accessories and winches.

Bottom-line: Best for tech-savvy riders who want high power with low weight.

Downside: Performance drops in freezing temps unless pre-warmed.

4. Mighty Max YTX14AH

Key Specifications:

• Type: AGM
• Voltage: 12V
• Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): 230
• Capacity: 12Ah
• Maintenance-free, valve-regulated
• Can be mounted in any position
• Shock and vibration resistant

Why it’s impressive:
This budget-friendly battery still delivers where it counts. With 230 CCA, it provides enough muscle for moderate winching, and it holds up well on rocky trails or muddy rides. It’s a solid upgrade from stock, especially if you’re not riding in freezing temps.

 Bottom-line: Best for budget-conscious riders needing winch support.

Downside: Not ideal for intense winching or winter riding.

5. Deka ETX14 Powersport Battery

Key Specifications:

• Type: AGM
• Voltage: 12V
• Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): 200
• Spill-proof and maintenance-free
• Designed for high vibration environments
• Made in the USA

Why it’s impressive:
Deka is known for tough, American-built batteries, and the ETX14 is no exception. It thrives on rough trails, resists shock like a champ, and provides a steady stream of power during winch operation. It’s reliable, consistent, and built to last.

Bottom-line: Best for rugged trail use and dependable winch action.

Downside: Lower capacity than some premium AGMs.

6. Weize YTX14AH-BS

Key Specifications:

• Type: AGM
• Voltage: 12V
• Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): 240
• Capacity: 12Ah
• Sealed, leak-proof, shock-resistant
• Maintenance-free design
• ISO9001 certified manufacturing

Why it’s impressive:
Weize delivers serious value here. It’s a surprisingly strong performer with enough CCA to support light-to-moderate winch usage. If you’re upgrading from a weak OEM battery, this one will feel like a power boost—without draining your wallet.

Bottom-line: Best value-for-money AGM battery for occasional winching.

Downside: Not made for extreme cold or high-demand winching.

7. Renegade RG30L-WS

Key Specifications:

• Type: AGM (Deep Cycle)
• Voltage: 12V
• Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): 400
• Reserve Capacity: Extended
• Heavy-duty casing
• Maintenance-free

Why it’s impressive:
Built for serious winch users, the RG30L-WS brings deep-cycle stamina and high cranking amps together. It’s perfect for dual battery setups or anyone needing a standalone power source for their winch. If you’re doing frequent pulls or running other power-hungry gear, this is a beast.

Bottom-line: Best for dedicated winch use or dual-battery builds.

Downside: Too bulky for compact ATV compartments.

8. NOCO NLP14 Lithium Battery

Key Specifications:

• Type: Lithium (LiFePO4)
• Voltage: 12.8V
• Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): 500
• Capacity: 4Ah (high-efficiency design)
• Up to 2,000 charge cycles
• Weighs under 3 pounds

Why it’s impressive:
NOCO’s NLP14 is a powerhouse in a featherweight body. It delivers exceptional starting power and fast recharge rates, plus it can sit unused for months without draining. It’s also factory sealed and insanely compact—ideal for performance-focused ATV builds.

Bottom-line: Best for fast charging and long storage between rides.

Downside: Higher upfront cost and not cold-weather friendly without prep.

9. Chrome Battery YTX12-BS

Key Specifications:

• Type: AGM
• Voltage: 12V
• Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): 180
• Capacity: 10Ah
• Factory activated
• Shockproof case
• Lightweight and affordable

Why it’s impressive:
If you’re only using your winch occasionally and want something reliable, this Chrome Battery gets the job done. It’s not the strongest on the list, but for casual riders or utility use, it’s a trustworthy budget solution that installs easily and holds up on basic terrain.

Bottom-line: Best for light-duty winch setups and casual trail riding.

Downside: Limited power for bigger winches or extreme use.

10. Power Sonic PTX14BS-FS

Key Specifications:

• Type: AGM
• Voltage: 12V
• Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): 220
• Maintenance-free and spill-proof
• High-impact resistant case
• Reliable start in cold and wet conditions

Why it’s impressive:
Power Sonic quietly builds some of the most dependable AGMs out there. This model balances affordability, strength, and durability—making it a great pick for ATVs that need both start-up reliability and decent winch support without the bulk of higher-end models.

Bottom-line: Best for reliable all-weather performance at mid-range price.

Downside: Not as powerful as top-tier AGM or lithium models.

Do You Need a Stand-Alone Battery for Your ATV Winch?

A stand-alone battery isn’t just for hardcore off-roaders—it can be a game-changer for anyone using high-capacity winches or piling on accessories like LED bars, sound systems, or snowplows.

Why Go Stand-Alone?

A winch demands serious amps—especially under load. If your main battery also has to start the engine, run lights, and power other electronics, it’s constantly stretched thin. This is where a second, dedicated battery just for the winch comes in clutch.

Benefits of a stand-alone winch battery:

• Your winch pulls stronger and more consistently
• Your main battery doesn’t get drained or damaged
• Less chance of an electrical failure when it matters most
• More room to run other power-hungry add-ons

When to Use a Stand-Alone Setup

Not everyone needs a dual-battery system. But if you check one or more of these boxes, it might be time:

• You’re running a winch larger than 4500 lbs
• You use your winch frequently for recovery, plowing, or trail work
• You have multiple power accessories drawing from the main battery
• Your current battery struggles or dies prematurely during winch use

What Kind of Battery Works Best?

For stand-alone use, deep cycle or dual-purpose batteries are ideal. They’re built to discharge slowly and deeply, which is perfect for winching.

Recommended picks:

• Renogy 12V 50Ah LiFePO4 – Lightweight, long-lasting, and built for deep cycles
• Battle Born 12V 50Ah LiFePO4 – Rugged and reliable, with internal management systems to handle abuse

Pro tip: Use a battery isolator or manual switch to keep your winch battery from draining your starter battery when your engine’s off.

Recommended Read: How to Charge an ATV Battery without a Charger

12 Volt Batteries for ATV Winches: The Standard Choice

If there’s one battery type that dominates the ATV world, it’s the good ol’ 12V. It’s the default for most stock ATVs and the go-to for winch systems. And honestly, for most riders, it gets the job done without much fuss.

But not all 12-volt batteries are equal when it comes to winching power. So before you grab any random 12V from the shelf, let’s break down what makes one winch-ready and another winch-wimpy.

Unless you’re doing something wild, your winch runs on 12 volts. Simple as that.

Make sure:

• The winch and battery voltage match
• You’re using 4-6 gauge cables
• You fuse the battery line for safety

Pro tip: If your winch feels sluggish, it’s not always the motor—it’s probably the battery.

Recommended Read: How Does an ATV Battery Last?

How to Install or Upgrade Your ATV Battery for Winch Use

Upgrading your battery for winch power is one of the easiest ways to improve your ATV’s performance—and it’s totally doable even if you’re not super handy. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown that’ll walk you through the process without the guesswork.

1. Disconnect the Old Battery (Always Start with the Negative Terminal)

First things first—safety. Disconnect the negative (–) terminal before the positive to avoid any sparks or accidental shorts. Once both cables are free, remove the battery from its tray carefully. If there’s corrosion or gunk, clean that area up now. 

2. Clean the Terminals and Battery Tray

Use a wire brush or battery terminal cleaner to scrub the connectors until they shine. This helps prevent poor connections and voltage drops that can kill winch performance. You can even apply a little anti-corrosion gel if you want extra protection.

3. Install the New Battery Securely

Drop in your new battery (winch-rated, of course) and make sure it’s properly seated and strapped down. ATV rides are full of vibrations and bumps—loose batteries can slide around or even short out. Tighten everything up before reconnecting any wires.

4. Use Heavy-Duty, Quality Connectors and Cables

If you’re installing a higher-capacity battery or upgrading to a winch, make sure your cables are up to the task. Use 4- or 6-gauge wiring for most winch setups and avoid thin wires that can heat up or melt under high current. Crimp or solder connectors firmly for a solid fit.

5. Fuse the Power Line Between Battery and Winch

This is your insurance policy. Install an inline fuse or circuit breaker close to the battery on the positive cable. That way, if something shorts or overheats, the fuse will blow instead of your winch—or worse, your ATV.

6. Test the System Before Hitting the Trails

Before you call it done, do a quick winch test. Try a light pull to make sure the power delivery is smooth and responsive. If the winch doesnt work and sounds sluggish or the solenoid clicks but doesn’t spool, double-check your connections and voltage.

Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Battery Winch-Ready

Your ATV winch battery is like a gym buddy—you can’t just call it up when you’re in trouble and ignore it the rest of the time. Regular battery care is what keeps it reliable in the field.Here’s how to keep your battery in peak shape.

• Charge it regularly, even during the off-season
  Batteries hate being ignored. Leaving them discharged for long periods shortens their lifespan drastically. If your ATV sits for weeks or months, plug it into a smart charger or trickle charger to keep the juice flowing and the cells healthy.
• Avoid full discharges—recharge before it drops too low
  Dropping below 12.0 volts too often can permanently damage most batteries, especially lead-acid and AGM types. Get into the habit of checking your voltage after a ride or heavy winching session, and recharge around 12.4V to stay in the safe zone.
• Store indoors in winter or extreme heat
  Cold kills weak batteries, and extreme heat will slowly cook them to death. If your riding season ends when the snow hits, pull the battery and store it in a dry, temperature-controlled space. Same goes for long summer breaks—shade it or bring it in.
• Use a smart charger or trickle charger (like Battery Tender)
  These little lifesavers keep your battery topped off without overcharging it. Unlike basic chargers, smart models monitor the battery and adjust charging as needed, which means longer life and zero babysitting.
• Inspect cables and terminals regularly
  Corrosion, loose wires, or cracked insulation can reduce performance or cause sudden failure. A quick inspection every few rides (especially after muddy ones) will help you catch issues before they become ride-ruiners.

Right Power Move: Best Battery for Winch Operation

If you use a winch even semi-regularly, upgrading your battery is one of the smartest things you can do for your ATV. Don’t skimp. Whether you choose a beefy AGM, a lightweight lithium, or a dual-battery setup, make sure your power system matches your off-road ambitions.

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