Again, this answer will be different for all and is best suited to your individual needs. But generally speaking, you’re going to want to choose between either a vertical anchor winch, also called a capstan, or a horizontal anchor winch.  Taking into account the size of your boat and its planned activity will help you decide which type is best for you, while remaining in your allocated price range.

Horizontal winches use an integral gearbox and motor assembly, as well as a horizontal shaft and wheels for test nylon rope on either side. Vertical winches, or capstans, utilize a vertical shaft, with the motor, gearbox and other hardware located below the anchor winch unit itself.

A main advantage to horizontal winches is that they’re generally more self-contained.  This protects the machinery from many of the hazards found on boats. The machinery of vertical winches, or capstans, on the other hand, can be placed below deck. This lowers the center of gravity and also allows a better angle for pulling the rope and anchor up onto the boat.

Generally speaking, capstans can usually be found on smaller boats, with windlasses much more popular on larger boats. But while this is the most common use for these products, however, it’s anything but a rule that’s set in stone for these and other outdoor products.

Just determine what price range is best for you, your anchor capacity and what you’d most like to employ on your boat, and go from there.