Forestwest 11097 18-Ton Kinetic
#4 in ElectricFull review
For splitting a lot of short firewood quickly from an outlet; the speed costs a lot more than a hydraulic electric.
Amazon $1,489$1,489
The Forestwest 11097 18-Ton Kinetic is the better log splitter overall, rated 3.3 to 3.2. The Forestwest 11097 18-Ton Kinetic leads on speed and force. The YARDMAX YS0952 9-Ton Electric wins on value and capacity. The YARDMAX YS0952 9-Ton Electric costs $990 less ($499 vs $1,489).
YARDMAX YS0952 9-Ton Electric
#5 in ElectricFull review
For homeowners who want electric quiet but split tougher hardwood than a 5 or 6 ton model can manage.
Amazon $499$499
Prices were last checked October 31, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Which should you buy?
- Choose the Forestwest 11097 18-Ton Kinetic for speed (3 second cycle vs 23 second cycle) and force (18 tons of splitting force vs 9 tons of splitting force).
- Choose the YARDMAX YS0952 9-Ton Electric for value ($55.44 per ton ($499, 9 tons) vs $82.72 per ton ($1,489, 18 tons)) and capacity (takes logs up to 20.5 in long vs takes logs up to 16 in long).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every electric log splitter; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Forestwest 11097 18-Ton Kinetic | YARDMAX YS0952 9-Ton Electric |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.3/5 | 3.2/5 |
| Value 30% | 18 $82.72 per ton ($1,489, 18 tons) | 56 $55.44 per ton ($499, 9 tons) |
| Force 20% | 100 18 tons of splitting force | 83 9 tons of splitting force |
| Speed 15% | 100 3 second cycle | 13 23 second cycle |
| Capacity 15% | 0 takes logs up to 16 in long | 50 takes logs up to 20.5 in long |
| Warranty 20% | 50 warranty not published (neutral score used) | 25 2-year warranty |
Specifications
| Forestwest 11097 18-Ton Kinetic | YARDMAX YS0952 9-Ton Electric | |
|---|---|---|
| Splitting | ||
| Splitting force | 18 tons | 9 tons |
| Cycle time | 3 s | 23 s |
| Longest log | 16 in | 20.5 in |
| Largest diameter | - | 12.6 in |
| Orientation | - | Horizontal |
| Kinetic | Yes | No |
| Power | ||
| Power | Electric | Electric |
| Engine or motor | 2 hp, 13.6 A | 15 A |
| Build | ||
| Towable | - | No |
| Dimensions | 74 x 20.5 x 34.6 in | 41.7 x 10.9 x 20.6 in |
| Weight | 246 lb | 165 lb |
| Warranty | - | 2 years |