NOCO Boost X GBX155 Review

Likes

We're big fans of the sheer power delivered by the NOCO Boost X GBX155. NOCO's peak amp rating is 4,250, which is plenty high for most vehicles. Better yet, this unit seems to be able to maintain voltage during starts, which can reduce the need to increase amps to compensate for voltage sag.

During one test session, the GBX155 started a 2010 Ford Explorer with a 4-liter, V6 engine so quickly and easily that it seemed as if the GBX155 was better at starting the Explorer than a perfectly healthy battery.

The claimed 99 watt hour battery is one of the largest on the market. In our tests, we were able to get 86.1 Wh out of it, making it one of the more efficient batteries we tested.

We appreciate this extra large battery because it simply gives us more possible jump starts. In addition, the Boost button and capacity combine to provide extra power in case we're facing a severely depleted battery and a system that needs more cranking to get started.

The case is rugged, with excellent flaps to protect ports from dust and moisture. The entire build feels strong and precise and inspires confidence.

We're particularly impressed by the NOCO Boost X GBX155 cables and clamps. Not only are they well made, they're long enough to reach battery terminals easily, giving us space to prop the jump starter somewhere safe and sturdy near the battery.

The clamps are the best we've tested and it's not even close. They're rugged with thin jaws that open wide. Modern vehicles often have many connections to battery terminals, creating challenging connections. These clamps are by far the easiest to use.

Jump starts are usually easy with the NOCO Boost X GBX155 once you know how it functions. The cables are already connected, so there is no assembly required. The unit has built-in spark and reverse polarity protection. Even though most jump starts are easy, newbies may need to consult the manual to understand the indicator lights and buttons, so this model gets mixed reviews when ranking ease of use.

Dislikes

The buttons and indicator lights on the NOCO Boost X GBX155 aren't bad, but they're not immediately intuitive. You'll want to read the directions in the manual, plus keep it with the jump starter. If this model sits in your car for months before you need it, you might not remember, for example, how to properly use the “Boost” button.

The GBX155 is bulky. For its overall size, we tend to prefer models that include built-in air compressors, making them more versatile. However, we must admit that the large battery with a fast 60-watt USB-C input/output port means that we could charge mobile phones with ease in the event of a power outage or emergency situation if we became stranded far off the beaten path.

For most people and situations, this jump starter is overkill. It's bigger and heavier than most. NOCO includes a thin sack, but at the price point, we wish the company would include a hard-sided zippered case.

Should You Buy the NOCO Boost X GBX155?

All-in-all, the NOCO Boost X GBX155 is a powerful jump starter that can easily start most vehicles on the road today. The build quality is excellent, and the clamps are fantastic and user friendly. The battery is huge and capable of powering many jump starts. If the bulk doesn't bother you, this is the jump starter we'd choose for jump starting larger engines far from home.

What Other Jump Starters Should You Consider?