Keeping your log pile full can become a costly option if you are purchasing split wood rather than doing it yourself. But splitting wood by hand can be a time consuming and exhausting endeavor. A log splitter can make short work of your logs, saving on time and effort, and keeping your log piled maxed out for year-round use in fireplaces and firepits.

If the idea of a splitter brings to mind large, loud machinery, then you need to take a closer look at your options- in particular electronic models. The best electronic log splitters aren’t as loud as gas powered versions are more compact for easy storage, and are more than capable of handling the size logs most homeowners need for residential use.

Best 5 Electric Log Splitter Comparisons

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Best Electric Splitter with StandBest Electric Splitter with StandWEN 56207 6.5-Ton Electric Log Splitter

  • Type: Electric Horizontal
  • Tonnage: 6.5
  • Max Log Capacity Length: 20.5 inches
  • Warranty: 2 year

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Best One-Handed Electric SplitterBest One-Handed Electric SplitterBoss Industrial ES7T20 Electric Log Splitter

  • Type: Electric Horizontal
  • Tonnage: 7
  • Max Log Capacity Length: 16 inches
  • Warranty: 2 years

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Highest Tonnage for an Electric SplitterHighest Tonnage for an Electric SplitterPowerhouse XM-580 9 Ton Electric Hydraulic Horizontal Log Splitter

  • Type: Electric Horizontal
  • Tonnage: 9
  • Max Log Capacity Length: 20 inches
  • Warranty: 1 year

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Best Portable Electric Log Splitter ChoiceBest Portable Electric Log Splitter ChoiceSouthland Outdoor Power Equipment SELS60 6 Ton Electric Log Splitter

  • Type: Electric Horizontal
  • Tonnage: 6
  • Max Log Capacity Length: 20 inches
  • Warranty: 2 years

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Best Compact Splitter with StandBest Compact Splitter with StandYARDMAX YS0552 5 Ton Electric Log Splitter

  • Type: Electric Horizontal
  • Tonnage: 5
  • Max Log Capacity Length: 20 inches
  • Warranty: 2 year

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Log Splitter Breakdown

Log splitters come in a wide variety of sizes and model type to help save you in both time and physical effort. Designed for home and commercial use, these machines are designed to powerfully split logs using manual, kinetic, gas, or electric power. The majority of them are also hydraulically powered to handle the force needed to cut logs either horizontally or vertically.

Vertical splitters require a lot more power than a horizontal model, so most electronic options are solely horizontal splitters as they cannot handle the heavier, larger logs. These are great for cutting large amounts of firewood as the designs place them close to the ground for quick and easy placement of logs, and the subsequent removal of them after being split.

What An Electric Log Splitter is Capable of

a man using log splitter

Compared to other types of splitters, an electric option is fairly lightweight and compact. As mentioned they cut almost exclusively horizontally and are designed for residential use to run from a regular 110V power outlet. Although they are considered the best to use with small to medium sized seasoned wood, some exist that can handle larger, heavier loads.

They run much quieter than a gas model, and are easier to move from place to place and into smaller spaces when needed. They also take up a lot less space when stored, making them ideal for the small landowner, or even urban dweller who prefers to handle the cutting and splitting of their own firewood.

What to Pay Attention to When Choosing an Electronic Splitter

When picking the best splitter for you, you need to take into account quite a few details before settling on the one you need. If you are unsure if you need a gas or electric log splitter, pay attention to the following details. You can purchase based on personal preference, but you need to think more about what wood you are using it on to ensure you get the splitter that can best handle the job or jobs you have in mind.

Tonnage

The term tonnage is one of the most important to consider during your search for a splitter. This refers to the maximum power the machine provides for log splitting. The larger and greener the log is, the more power is required to split it clean. For example, a 12 inch green log requires about 16 tons of pressure. But a 12 inch seasoned log only needs about 7 tons.

Age of Wood

woodpile: closeup on tree trunks in a forest
woodpile: closeup on tree trunks in a forest

Recently cut wood is still green and fresh and is much more dense and difficult to cut than logs that have been allowed to age and dry. You have to choose a splitter that can handle the heaviness of the green woods if this is what you plan on using a splitter for. Otherwise, allow fresh cut woods to sit for a season to dry out for easier cutting.

Type of Wood

Hardwood trees are defined by deciduous trees because they have a densely packed cellular structure. Softwoods are defined by evergreen species, such as pine and spruce. Many hardwoods also have various degrees of density with some being ‘softer’ than others. For example, poplar species are much softer than oak or maple.

Log Size

Be sure to check the size of log that the splitter can handle. This is especially important for horizontal splitting models because they do require you to lift the log into place.

Automatic Ram Return

electric log splitter with wood and trunks
electric log splitter with wood and trunks

This term refers to how quickly the machine can complete the cycle from start back to position to cut again. You will want a quick return to save on cutting time for a more effective use of the machine.

Top 5 Rated Electronic Log Splitter Reviews

The following electric splitter reviews highlight consumer favorites based on ease of use and durability. These are top picks with high ratings because they do what they claim, and have become popular with homeowners and commercial cutters alike. The best log splitter is going to be the one that worst best for the job you need done. If you are looking for a side by side comparison of the same brand of electric vs gas options, you may also want to take a closer look at Swisher log splitter reviews.

WEN 56207 6.5-Ton Electric Log Splitter

WEN 56207 6.5-Ton Electric Log Splitter
  • Type: Electric Horizontal
  • Tonnage: 6.5
  • Max Log Capacity Length: 20.5 inches
  • Warranty: 2 year

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Save your back with the WEN electric splitter that is not only durable and powerful with a 6.5 ton splitting force, but also comes with a sturdy stand that lifts 34 inches to allow for easy loading and unloading of logs. Use with the stand or without to cut up to 10 inch diameter logs at 20.5 inches in length. Two handed operation makes this a safe choice as well.

The sturdy wheels makes this a great choice to move from one area to another and for storage purposes. Plus, an integrated pull handle allows for even easier transportation. A 20 second cycle time allows you to make quick work of both small and moderate sized jobs.

Pros

  • Surprisingly powerful
  • Very sturdy on the lift
  • Quick reset time

Cons

  • Use of stand requires two people
  • Wheels could be more sturdy overall

Pro Tip

This is the perfect splitter for anyone who needs a lifted machine to keep from bending over to load. It is also easily maneuverable and stores wonderfully.


Boss Industrial ES7T20 Electric Log Splitter

Boss Industrial ES7T20 Electric Log Splitter
  • Type: Electric Horizontal
  • Tonnage: 7
  • Max Log Capacity Length: 16 inches
  • Warranty: 2 years

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Durable and long-lasting, the Boss Industrial ES7T20 splitter is a quality product that is powerful enough for both homeowners and commercial business owners. This product is specifically designed for compact, one-handed use for small to moderate job sizes. The 2 HP motor can manage 7 tons of splitting force and makes it perfect for logs being cut for household firewood.

It includes side rails to help stabilize the log and also is wheeled to easily move the splitter from one area to the other with ease. It also has optional accessories to add a 4-way for smaller log cuts. Rated for a 16 inch diameter log, it is popular for use with larger, dry logs as well due to its dependable power.

Pros

  • Powerful and dependable
  • One-handed operation
  • Stable design when running, rails are very durable

Cons

  • Wheels a bit wobbly
  • Low profile for loading

Pro Tip

When you need to cut larger amounts of firewood quickly, this is a great choice. The one-handed operation lets you keep it running without pause.


Powerhouse XM-580 9 Ton Electric Hydraulic Horizontal Log Splitter

Powerhouse XM-580 9 Ton Electric Hydraulic Horizontal Log Splitter
  • Type: Electric Horizontal
  • Tonnage: 9
  • Max Log Capacity Length: 20 inches
  • Warranty: 1 year

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The Powerhouse XM-580 has a huge 9 ton split force for use with horizontal cutting. With the capability of handling logs up to 20 inches long and 12 inches in diameter, it can make short work of just about anything you throw at it. Designed to start easily and with no worries of gas motor maintenance, this is a dependable machine for made for easy home use and large job sizes.

The two handed control is made for safety and keeps you working without worry of mishap. Small, lightweight, and set on sturdy wheels, it can be easily moved from place to place and takes up very little space when stored. It also runs much more quietly than comparable gas splitters.

Pros

  • Very compact and easy to store
  • Strong, powerful, and durable
  • Cuts smoothly and resets quickly

Cons

  • Low to the ground for loading
  • Two-handed use takes getting used to

Pro Tip

If you have large jobs and need a strong, durable cutting power this is a great choice. Even more so if you have very little room for storage and need a compact, powerful choice.


Southland Outdoor Power Equipment SELS60 6 Ton Electric Log Splitter

Southland Outdoor Power Equipment SELS60 6 Ton Electric Log Splitter
  • Type: Electric horizontal
  • Tonnage: 6
  • Max Log Capacity Length: 20 inches
  • Warranty: 2 years

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The Southland Outdoor Power Equipment Splitter is designed specifically for easy maneuverability and portability. The 6 ton force capacity is powered by a 1.75 HP electric motor and has a 18 second reset time. It also has a stroke limiter integrated into the design to help move quickly through your job without having to readjust.

Made for residential use, consumers report this is a strong and durable machine. The sturdy frame and ability to cut 20 inch logs makes it a great option. It also is very compact overall and stores well with the help of sturdy tires and easy integrated handles.

Pros

  • More powerful than rated
  • Easy and quick cutting
  • Compact and durable

Cons

  • Two-handed operation
  • Very low to the ground

Pro Tip

This is the perfect machine for durable portable use. It handles large jobs on the go and is compact for moving, storing, and transporting.


YARDMAX YS0552 5 Ton Electric Log Splitter

YARDMAX YS0552 5 Ton Electric Log Splitter
  • Type: Electric Horizontal
  • Tonnage: 5
  • Max Log Capacity Length: 20 inches
  • Warranty: 2 year

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Yardmax is a popular brand with durable, affordable product offers. Their electric splitter has a strong 5 ton cutting capacity and the ability to cut 10 inch diameter logs up to 20 inches in length. The 16 second reset time makes it one of the fastest available, and a two-handed operation ensure operator safety.

Log tray for log stabilization and a stroke limiter allows for work without pause as you feed and operate the machine. It also comes almost fully assembled and needs only the wheels to be attached. Setting it on the stand is an optional choice and only takes a few minutes to complete.

Pros

  • Assembles quickly and is stable
  • Works as described and is powerful
  • Very convenient and dependable

Cons

  • Paint chips off it
  • Takes two people to mount on stand

Pro Tip

When you need to make quick work of small to moderate sized jobs and are looking for a stable, raised surface, this is the perfect choice.

Conclusion

The ratings from consumers who have worked with these splitters made them a good choice to consider. The electric motors are powerful and able to handle a wide range of small to large logs for a quick and easy job. Designed for residential use, they run off your standard 110V wall plug and are easy to store when not in use.

If you have used any of the above products, we’d love to hear of your experiences below. These are favorites with consumers due to their quality when compared to similar options, and are long lasting designs. Also, leave your questions below, and please share!