I’ve been towing trailers for years, and if there’s one piece of equipment that can make or break your day, it’s the tongue jack. A solid jack saves your back, keeps your trailer stable, and makes hitching and unhitching a breeze. To really test which models hold up in real-world use, I tried five of the most popular electric tongue jacks available right now.
Before jumping into the reviews, here are a few quick buying questions to consider:
- How heavy is your trailer? (Check the jack’s weight capacity vs your trailer’s tongue weight.)
- Do you camp or haul in all weather? (Look for waterproof or weather-resistant designs.)
- Do you need speed, quiet operation, or just reliability?
- What’s your budget—premium convenience or affordable practicality?
Let’s break it down.
Types of Electric Tongue Jacks
| Product | Type | Weight Capacity | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lippert 285318 3500LB Power Tongue Jack | Electric | 3,500 lbs | Reliable, built-in LED lights |
| Kohree 3700 lbs Electric Tongue Jack | Electric | 3,700 lbs | Weatherproof with level indicator |
| Husky HB4500 Brute Power Jack | Electric | 4,500 lbs | Heavy-duty with SmartStop technology |
| Bastion 3500 lb Electric Trailer Jack | Electric | 3,500 lbs | Budget-friendly, simple operation |
| Stromberg Carlson JET-5000 Electric Tongue Jack | Electric | 5,000 lbs | High capacity, strong motor |
Our Top Picks by Category
| Category | Best Pick |
|---|---|
| Best Overall | Lippert 285318 3500LB Power Tongue Jack |
| Best Heavy-Duty | Husky HB4500 Brute Power Jack |
| Best Budget | Bastion 3500 lb Electric Trailer Jack |
| Best Weatherproof | Kohree 3700 lbs Electric Tongue Jack |
| Best for Large Trailers | Stromberg Carlson JET-5000 Electric Tongue Jack |
Hands-On Reviews
Lippert 285318 3500LB Power Tongue Jack
Best for: Everyday towing, balance of performance and price
Why We Like It:
This Lippert jack has been my go-to for a couple of trips because it’s dependable and user-friendly. The built-in LED lights are a huge help during night setups, and it lifts smoothly without straining. It’s rated for 3,500 lbs, which covers most travel trailers and boats under 7,000 lbs GVWR.
Pros
- Reliable lift with smooth action
- LED lights for nighttime use
- Emergency manual crank included
- Solid build quality
Cons
- Not the fastest lift speed
- Paint coating could chip over time
Kohree 3700 lbs Electric Tongue Jack
Best for: Weatherproof durability
Why We Like It:
The Kohree jack surprised me with how rugged it feels. It’s fully weatherproof and comes with a built-in bubble level, which saved me some frustration when hitching up. At 3,700 lbs, it’s a touch stronger than the Lippert, and it handled my test trailer easily.
Pros
- Weatherproof housing keeps dust and rain out
- Level indicator helps with fast setup
- Slightly higher capacity than entry-level models
- Smooth and fairly quiet
Cons
- A bit bulkier in design
- LED light isn’t as bright as Lippert’s
Husky HB4500 Brute Power Jack
Best for: Heavy-duty towing and large trailers
Why We Like It:
This is the powerhouse of the group. At 4,500 lbs, the Husky HB4500 lifted my fully loaded trailer with no hesitation. The SmartStop feature prevents over-extension, and the build feels bulletproof. It’s heavier and pricier, but if you haul big rigs, it’s worth it.
Pros
- Massive 4,500 lb capacity
- SmartStop prevents damage
- Extremely durable construction
- Smooth and strong motor
Cons
- On the expensive side
- Heavier than most jacks
Bastion 3500 lb Electric Trailer Jack
Best for: Budget buyers who still want reliability
Why We Like It:
If you’re just looking for an affordable but dependable jack, Bastion’s model is the sweet spot. At 3,500 lbs, it covers most light to mid trailers. The operation is straightforward—no fancy extras, but it gets the job done.
Pros
- Affordable price
- Reliable performance for the rating
- Simple to use and install
- Decent speed for the cost
Cons
- Lacks premium features like built-in levels or SmartStop
- Build isn’t as heavy-duty as Husky or Lippert
Stromberg Carlson JET-5000 Electric Tongue Jack
Best for: Very large trailers and fifth wheels
Why We Like It:
This Stromberg Carlson jack is a beast. With a 5,000 lb capacity, it’s overkill for small trailers but absolutely necessary for bigger rigs. During testing, it had no problem handling a fully loaded cargo trailer. The motor is strong, and while it’s louder than some, it’s also faster.
Pros
- Huge 5,000 lb capacity
- Strong motor with fast lift
- Excellent for oversized trailers
- Solid steel construction
Cons
- Louder than other models
- Overkill (and overpriced) for smaller trailers
Other Things to Consider
When choosing the best tongue jack, keep these factors in mind:
- Weight Capacity: Always match the jack to at least 1.5 times your tongue weight.
- Speed and Noise: Faster motors save time, but quieter models may be better for campsites.
- Weather Resistance: If you camp in rain or snow, look for sealed or weatherproof models.
- Ease of Use: LED lights, bubble levels, and SmartStop features really make life easier.
- Price vs Features: Premium models bring convenience but budget models can be just as reliable if used within their limits.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size tongue jack do I need?
You’ll need to know your trailer’s tongue weight (usually 10–15% of the trailer’s GVWR). Choose a jack rated at least 1.5 times higher for safety. For example, if your tongue weight is 700 lbs, pick a jack rated at least 1,050 lbs.
Are electric tongue jacks worth it over manual ones?
Yes, if you tow frequently or have a heavy trailer. Electric jacks save serious time and effort. A manual jack works fine for small, lightweight trailers, but for anything mid-size or above, an electric model is a back-saver.
Do electric tongue jacks drain the battery?
They draw power, but only while in use. A healthy trailer battery can handle plenty of cycles. Many models also include a manual crank backup in case of dead batteries.
Can I install an electric tongue jack myself?
Most electric tongue jacks are designed for DIY installation. You’ll need basic tools, and installation usually takes under an hour. Always follow the manufacturer’s wiring guide.
How long do tongue jacks last?
With proper care (keeping them clean, greased, and protected from the elements), a quality electric tongue jack can last 5–10 years or more. Cheaper models may need replacing sooner if used heavily.
Conclusion
After putting all five jacks to the test, here’s my take: If you want the best all-around balance of reliability, features, and price, go with the Lippert 285318 3500LB Power Tongue Jack. For heavy-duty haulers, the Husky HB4500 is the workhorse that won’t let you down. On a tighter budget, the Bastion 3500 lb Electric Trailer Jack gives you dependable lifting at an affordable price. Weather-conscious buyers should lean toward the Kohree 3700 lbs, while those with oversized trailers will appreciate the raw power of the Stromberg Carlson JET-5000