Best Log Splitters Under $500

For homeowners who want electric quiet but split tougher hardwood than a 5 or 6 ton model can manage.

A low-cost electric splitter for homeowners splitting small rounds into stove wood.

A budget electric for splitting a small stack of stove wood each season.

A good pick for splitting a cord or two of stove wood a year at waist height, without lifting logs off the ground.

A small electric for seasoned stove wood, chosen mainly for its long warranty.

A fast, cheap small electric for occasional stove wood, if you can live with a short warranty.

A step up in force from 5 and 6 ton electrics for about the same price, for light home use.

A light, simple splitter for seasoned softwood and small hardwood rounds; stronger electrics cost the same or less.

A light electric splitter for small stove wood, but other 6 to 7 ton electrics do the same work for less.