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A dead battery is always an inconvenience, but being stranded far from home is a serious safety risk. A portable jump starter can eliminate the need to wait for a tow truck or rely on a stranger with jumper cables.
The best jump starter for most people is the WOLFBOX MegaVolt24. It packs heavy-duty jumping power into a compact storage case. The high-capacity battery delivers multiple jump starts per charge and doubles as an emergency power bank for mobile devices.
The GOOLOO GP2000 is the best option for those on tight budgets. It offers a great blend of power for the price. It's great for small-to-midsize passenger cars and SUVs, but it's rated to jump start larger engines, too.
Our favorite jump starter with a built-in air compressor is the WOLFBOX MegaVolt16 Air. It's a little larger than standard models, but its extra ability to inflate low tires makes us shrug at the slight size difference.
We researched dozens of portable jump starters and purchased the top 13 for head-to-head testing. We evaluated each model's ability to revive dead batteries, its safety features, and ease of use. Additionally, we verified battery capacities and tested their performance as backup power banks for mobile devices.
Editor's Note: We updated our jump starter review on April 29, 2026, with new models from WOLFBOX, NOCO, AstroAI, and more.
Impressive battery capacity for multiple jump starts
Durable storage case
CONS
It's a bit much if you only have a small car
Stubby clamps
Mediocre flashlight strength
The WOLFBOX MegaVolt24 is a near-perfect jump starter for most people because it has a massive battery capacity and the ability to start large 10-liter gas and diesel engines. It works on small cars, of course, but if your buddy with a big truck runs his battery down, you can still be a hero with this powerful model. The 88.8 Wh lithium-ion battery is close to the largest we tested, but its efficiency is what won us over. During our testing, we used it to start a V6 engine with a completely dead battery three times in a row. Each jump start only used 3 percent of its capacity. “Jump starters slowly drain while they sit in your vehicle for months, so I really appreciated being able to check their percentage capacity so easily,” noted tester Chris Maxcer. “The big battery means I can pretty much ignore this one for months and know that I'll have enough juice for jump starting.”
SPECIFICATIONS
Gas Engine Rating
10-liter gas
Diesel Engine Rating
10-liter diesel
Peak Amp Rating
4000 amps
Measured Battery Capacity
82.3 Wh
Claimed Battery Capacity
88.8 Wh
We also appreciated that the WOLFBOX MegaVolt24 included a wall charger and could be quickly recharged via USB-C at 65 watts. The modern 65-watt output also let us fast-charge our mobile phones, making it handy for roadside emergencies or power outages at home. The protective case let us stow this in a trunk or under a seat without worrying about damaging it with other tools or gear. We were slightly annoyed by the stubby clamps, which sometimes forced us to find alternative angles when attaching them to battery terminals with limited clearance. The NOCO Boost X GBX155 has excellent low-profile clamps and long cables, and it's even more powerful, but it's much bulkier and lacks a storage case. Overall, though, the MegaVolt24's ease of use and outstanding build quality make it a trustworthy device that most drivers will appreciate.
During testing, the WOLFBOX MegaVolt24 easily jump started this 2010 Ford Explorer with a V6 engine multiple times in a row. We're fans of the big, bright display with the green start button that confirms it's ready for a jump. If you unmute the video, you can hear the engine start after only a couple of cranks. Credit: Chris Maxcer
If a robust portable power bank is your number one priority and jump starts are few and far between, the GOOLOO GP2000 will impress with its high-capacity lithium-ion battery and abundance of charge ports. This model comes with a 37 Wh lithium-ion battery capable of delivering up to 2,000 peak amps for car jump-starts. “It wasn't as powerful for boosting larger batteries on bigger trucks,” one tester observed, “but had plenty of juice to handle eight consecutive boosts on a 2.5-liter engine before needing another charge.” We also appreciated the 15-watt USB-C input/output port for charging phones during roadside emergencies or power outages. It's not the fastest option, but it's faster than most inexpensive models we tested.
SPECIFICATIONS
Gas Engine Rating
8-liter gas
Diesel Engine Rating
6-liter diesel
Peak Amp Rating
2000 amps
Measured Battery Capacity
N/A (See review)
Claimed Battery Capacity
37 Wh
While it's great for powering accessories on the go, we were a little underwhelmed by its performance as a booster pack. Our lead tester noticed that “it is fully capable of bringing mid-size batteries back to life but doesn't quite have the gusto to manage larger engines and higher cranking amps.” However, due to the storage potential of its 37Wh battery, this contender will hold a charge for quite a while, allowing you to charge your electronics wherever you go. Because of this, the GOOLOO GP2000 is a great option for powering accessories, and with its ability to jump larger engines in vehicles with reasonably healthy starters and components, the GOOLOO provides a price-to-performance ratio that is hard to beat.
We used a multimeter to measure the output power of these chargers. The GOOLOO is capable of charging USB-powered devices just like a standard 5V 2A wall charger. Credit: Rob Woodworth
The NOCO Boost X GBX155 is easily our top choice for those who need to jump start larger engines. NOCO rates it up to 10-liter gas and 8-liter diesel engines, which covers most consumer vehicles on the road. “The NOCO Boost X GBX155 is a beast!” Chris noted. “This powerful model jump started one of our V6 test vehicles so easily it seemed to crank and start faster than when it starts with a perfectly good battery installed.” The rugged build quality is impressive, and the cables are twice as long as those found on most portable models. We also appreciated the high-quality clamps with thin jaws that can grip even tightly packed battery terminals on modern vehicles. This model's battery capacity topped our charts, and it also charges quickly via its 60-watt USB-C port, which can recharge phones.
SPECIFICATIONS
Gas Engine Rating
10-liter gas
Diesel Engine Rating
8-liter diesel
Peak Amp Rating
4250 amps
Measured Battery Capacity
86.1 Wh
Claimed Battery Capacity
99 Wh
We're a little disappointed that the Boost X GBX155 doesn't come with a protective case, just a thin sack. Maybe NOCO doesn't think it's necessary because the plastic housing is so thick and the ports are protected by rubber flaps. The built-in flashlight is bright and wide-angle, making it easy to see under the hood in the dark. You don't get a fancy screen, but NOCO still provides spark protection and reverse-polarity protection built in. If it seems a little oversized and overpowered for your needs, the NOCO Boost HD GB70 shares the same rugged design in a smaller, less expensive package that is capable of starting vehicles with 8-liter gas engines or 6-liter diesels. Still, if you're facing a hard-starting, long-cranking engine, the GBX155 is our top recommendation.
The NOCO GBX155 is big and heavy, but it exudes built-to-last quality and delivers incredibly fast starts. It's a bit overkill and expensive for most cars, but if you have larger engines or older vehicles that require longer crank times, it's our top pick. Unmute to hear the snappy start on this V-6 engine. Credit: Chris Maxcer
The WOLFBOX MegaVolt16 Air is our top pick for a jump starter with a built-in air compressor because it delivers full-sized performance and battery capacity in a highly packable design. “When companies add air compressors to jump starters, sometimes you get two mediocre performances,” says Chris. “With the MegaVolt16, I like the overall premium build quality, effective tire inflation, strong starting capabilities, and modern USB-C fast charging. It's a can't-go-wrong package here. Very impressive.” When your Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) detects low tire pressure, it's best not to ignore the warning signs and sounds. When we're driving far from home, we appreciate the ability to pull over and top off a tire to a safe, appropriate pressure without needing to find a gas station or tire shop. This option blends two vehicle safety devices in one handy package.
SPECIFICATIONS
Gas Engine Rating
8-liter gas
Diesel Engine Rating
6-liter diesel
Peak Amp Rating
3000 amps
Measured Battery Capacity
51.3 Wh
Claimed Battery Capacity
59.2 Wh
The biggest drawback to the WOLFBOX MegaVolt16 Air is the blocky battery terminal clamps. Older cars and trucks tend to have easy-to-access battery terminals, but some modern rides have more complicated battery attachment designs with limited space. Fortunately, the clamps are high-quality and grip well, but you may need to futz with the angles to find a good connection. If the battery terminals on your car have tight clearances, you could choose the NOCO Boost+Air AX65. It's not nearly as compact, but it has stellar clamps.
The MegaVolt16 Air is both a capable jump starter and a versatile air compressor. Unmute the video to hear the fast and easy jump start and air compressor while it tops off a pickup tire. Credit: Chris Maxcer
If you have limited space in your vehicle or don't want a big, bulky jump starter taking up a bunch of room, we highly recommend the NOCO Boost Plus GB40. “This powerful little device is tiny compared to much of the competition,” said one tester, “yet it has proven to be able to start every vehicle we've tested it with.” For very depleted car batteries and hard starts, you can enable 'Boost Mode,' which delivers a quick burst of power to your starter. For those who tend to be rough on their gear, this model has a certified IP65 waterproof rating. “Although you can't exactly go swimming with it, a little bit of rainwater and dust is no problem,” quipped one of our testers. NOCO says it can handle vehicles with engines up to 6 liters, a size that includes many full-size pickups on the road today.
SPECIFICATIONS
Gas Engine Rating
6-liter gas
Diesel Engine Rating
3-liter diesel
Peak Amp Rating
1000 amps
Measured Battery Capacity
15.57 Wh
Claimed Battery Capacity
24 Wh
The biggest potential drawback to the NOCO Boost Plus GB40 is that it might not be able to jump larger pickups or big SUVs. In some situations with well-maintained vehicles that have healthy starters, it could work, but counting on it for tough starts isn't the right use case for this one. The small size also means it has one of the smallest battery capacities we tested, which limits its ability to repeatedly jump vehicles without recharging it. While it easily jump-started a 4-liter V-6 gas engine with a completely dead battery three times in quick succession, more challenging vehicles could be too much for it, particularly if you don't recharge it once or twice each year. The built-in safety features means it would not hurt to try, but if you think you'll want to jump start full-size vehicles, we recommend choosing a larger device like the HULKMAN Alpha85S or even the WOLFBOX MegaVolt24. Still, if you have a car, we love the packability and rugged high-quality build of the GB40.
We've tested multiple GB40 units on multiple vehicles over the years, and it easily starts small to mid-size cars and SUVs. Credit: Chris Maxcer
Long-lasting power delivery for hard cranking jump starts
Very rugged and durable construction
Built-in 120 PSI air compressor with digital settings
Includes dual USB ports and a 12V 10A outlet
CONS
Heavy and cumbersome
Not meant for repeated consecutive boosts
Should be recharged after each use
The Dewalt DXAEJ14 is the best jump starter for home, garage, or shops because its sealed lead acid (SLA) battery helps it excel at hard-cranking jump starts that require constant current for several seconds. If you're working on a vehicle that needs some extra love, takes longer to start after sitting for months, or has thick oil from frigid weather, this jump starter is likely capable of coaxing it back to life. Plus, the DXAEJ14 is versatile. “Need to air up your tires? Check your alternator? Charge your cell phone?” asked our lead tester, who appreciated that the Dewalt proved useful for more garage-type tasks. For instance, a battery can be healthy but not be charged properly by the alternator as you drive. The built-in alternator checker helps you rule out a bad alternator, so you don't spend money buying a new battery you might not need.
SPECIFICATIONS
Gas Engine Rating
8-cylinder
Diesel Engine Rating
8-cylinder
Peak Amp Rating
1600 amps
Measured Battery Capacity
N/A (See review)
Claimed Battery Capacity
21 Wh
While the Dewalt DXAEJ14 is designed for hard, sustained-cranking jump starts, it's not as portable as lithium-ion jump starters. Nor can it jump start vehicles again and again in quick succession. You'll need to recharge SLA-based models after every jump for best results and keep it topped off once a month or so. We appreciated the digital screen for setting our desired tire pressure when airing up the tires, and the USB-C and USB-A ports let us recharge phones during home power outages. Dewalt updated the original DXAEJ14 from 1400 to 1600 peak amps, and both versions are still available. If you want a slight boost in jump starting ability, go with the 1600, but for most vehicles the difference is negligible, making both these options good buys. If you're on a budget and want an SLA option, consider the Stanley J5C09 1000 Peak Amp. It also has a built-in air compressor, but it can't check your alternator like the DXAEJ14.
The Dewalt DXAEJ14 is our favorite choice for a sealed-acid battery model that offers a compressor. Credit: Rob Woodworth
Product Comparison Table
Modern jump starters with lithium-ion batteries are surprisingly lightweight and portable. You can keep one in your vehicle at all times so it's ready for action in case you or someone else gets stranded by a dead car battery. Credit: Chris Maxcer
How We Tested
We tested lithium-ion and sealed lead-acid jump starters ranging from 1,000 to 4,250 peak amps by pushing them to their absolute limits. To simulate real-world emergencies, we jump-started a diverse fleet of vehicles—from a 650cc motorcycle to a 6.7L V8 diesel truck and a 454-horsepower inboard boat engine. We made these scenarios even more demanding by using partially depleted jump starters in freezing winter weather and by completely bypassing the vehicle batteries to force the units to do all the heavy lifting.
Beyond raw jumping power, we rigorously evaluated each unit's build quality, clamp ergonomics, and overall ease of use. Because manufacturer specifications are often inflated, we independently measured the true usable capacity (in Watt-hours) of every battery and verified the actual charging speeds of their USB ports. Finally, we tested the real-world effectiveness of built-in extras, like integrated air compressors, to determine which models actually deliver on their promises.
Our jump starter testing is divided into five rating metrics:
Power Performance (30% of overall score weighting)
Battery (30% weighting)
Craftsmanship & Durability (20% weighting)
Ease of Use (15% weighting)
Versatility (15% weighting)
We check clamp quality, bite, and ease of use on multiple battery terminal connection situations. Credit: Chris Maxcer
Because jump starters are useless if they're not charged, we test charging speeds and ease of charging. Credit: Chris Maxcer
Most jump starters now include built-in flashlights. Some are multi-functional while others seem more like afterthoughts. Credit: Chris Maxcer
We fully drain jump starter batteries to confirm Wh capacities. Higher quality jump starters tend to have tested capacities that are closer to their manufacturer's claimed battery sizes. Credit: Chris Maxcer
Why Trust GearLab
One of our veteran team members and primary tester, Ross Patton, is no stranger to offroading, overlanding, and all things battery-powered. With a formal education in Environmental Science from the University of Nevada, Reno, a knack for techy products, and a tendency to venture off into the great unknown, he was the ideal choice to help tackle this review.
With extensive experience operating machinery and various engine types, Rob Woodworth has a nuanced understanding of 12V systems and the batteries that power them. He is a Coast Guard Certified Captain who routinely maintains deep-cycle marine batteries to start heavy equipment. His practical knowledge of battery performance is fortified by his experience in off-grid solar power systems, which require more frequent and diligent maintenance. As such, his background in 12V applications is deeper than that of your average commuter.
They joined by veteran gear reviewer Chris Maxcer, who keeps a portable jump starter in all of his vehicles, drives deep into the backcountry, far from the nearest gas station several times each year, and makes sure friends and family have portable jump starters for their own vehicles. Chris has tested and reviewed hundreds of portable power banks, USB chargers, and mobile devices. He most appreciates gear that outperforms its price points.
As with all lab testing, we put them through a series of rigorous side-by-side tests. Credit: Chris Maxcer
Analysis and Test Results
We field-tested popular sealed lead-acid and lithium-ion jump starters. We evaluated their ability to start dead vehicles, as well as integrated features such as clamp quality, cable length, power ports, and built-in air compressors.
Worse Value
Better Value
What's the Best Value?
You don't need to spend $400 to get a reliable jump starter, especially if you only need it for a compact SUV or sedan. For strict emergency use, the GOOLOO GP2000 offers the best battery capacity at an incredibly budget-friendly price. If you are willing to spend slightly more for better durability and superior clamps, the compact NOCO Boost Plus GB40 is a rugged, reliable alternative.
The GOOLOO GP2000 has competitive battery capacity at its budget-friendly price point. Credit: Rob Woodworth
If you want premium performance without the premium price tag, the WOLFBOX MegaVolt24 is an exceptional value. It delivers jump-starting power and fast-charging capabilities that rival units costing well over $400, all for under $180. For maximum utility, the WOLFBOX MegaVolt16 Air offers similar value but swaps a bit of raw power for a highly convenient built-in air compressor.
Power Performance
We evaluated each model's jump-starting performance on dead batteries, specifically focusing on the effectiveness of the clamps and cables. Our testing also measured each unit's responsiveness and output consistency during the jumping process. Many manufacturers use a 'peak amps' rating when marketing their jump starters, but there is no industry standard for measuring, evaluating, or marketing peak amps. In addition, peak amps refers to the maximum amps a device might produce in a microsecond, and it doesn't necessarily mean a jump starter is more effective. In fact, voltage is another critical factor for hard-starting engines. The ability to provide consistent amperage without a major voltage drop can result in faster, more efficient jump starts.
While all the jump starters we tested are very good at their jobs and can jump start many vehicle sizes, some were able to jump start our test vehicles more quickly and with less cranking needed, indicating a slightly better ability to provide the current required by the vehicle's starter. The large and rugged NOCO Boost X GBX155 made one test vehicle, a 2010 Ford Explorer with a 4-liter V6 gas engine, start more quickly and crisply than it usually starts with a healthy, fully-charged car battery installed. NOCO rates it at a whopping 4,250 peak amps and can start 10-liter gas or 8-liter diesel engines.
Our test vehicles fired right up with the NOCO Boost X GBX155. When testing jump starters side-by-side, it seemed to produce more immediate, confident starts compared to smaller, less powerful models that required an extra 1-3 cranks to get the same engines started. Credit: Chris Maxcer
The WOLFBOX MegaVolt24 also produced fast, crisp starts that exude confidence and inspire trust. It's rated at 4,000 peak amps with the ability to start 10-liter gas or diesel engines. The HULKMAN Alpha85S is rated lower at 2,000 amps for starting up to 8.5-liter gas and 6-liter diesel engines. All three of these jump starters should have little trouble starting most full-size pickups and SUVs on the road today.
In Force Start mode, the HULKMAN Alpha85S was ready to provide plenty of voltage to help reluctant vehicles start. Credit: Ross Patton
The pint-sized NOCO Boost Plus GB40 has a low 1,000 peak amp manufacturer rating that's still sufficient for many midsize vehicles. It started a midsize 4-liter, V6 gas engine with a completely drained battery (no clicks, no dash lights) three times in rapid succession in chilly 33° weather. This vehicle's reasonably healthy starter only needed a little over 300 amps to do its job, and the GB40 complied without complaints. Its lithium-ion battery did a nice job of delivering the required energy, though we would not look to this model for starting larger engines that might require sustained current during longer cranking times.
During this jump start, a 2010 Ford Explorer's starter only needed 301 amps from the NOCO Boost Plus GB40 to start the engine. Credit: Chris Maxcer
If you're trying to start a vehicle that's been sitting for months at a time or has a worn starter, a model that uses a sealed lead acid battery is the way to go. These jump starters tend to deliver longer-sustained cranking current without voltage drops. The Dewalt DXAEJ14, Clore Automotive JNC660, and Stanley J5C09 deliver a constant current when hooked up to your battery terminals.
Larger jump starters that use sealed lead acid batteries, like the Dewalt DXAEJ14, can usually provide longer sustained cranking times than those that use lithium-ion batteries. Credit: Rob Woodworth
While these jump starters are powerful in the sense that they will stay in the fight longer, providing multi-second cranking, they aren't good at repeating the effort in quick succession. In fact, the manufacturers recommend recharging their SLA batteries after each jump attempt. Still, we found them fully capable of reviving even larger diesel and deep-cycle marine batteries. Among the SLA types, we were less fond of the Stanley J5C09 as it delivered slightly less current under load in our tests.
We check voltage of “dead” batteries before jump starting, confirming the lack of sufficient charge when keys or buttons won't start a vehicle. Credit: Chris Maxcer
After examining all that became to our final ratings for power performance:
Tip: What is a 'boost' button?
Many jump starters won't automatically attempt to jump-start a vehicle with a completely dead or nearly dead battery. In this situation, the unit may not detect a battery at all, so it may appear to be not working. However, you might not need to call for a tow truck. Most modern, high-quality lithium-ion jump starters now have boost buttons, force start, or override modes built-in. When you enable a boost mode, it tells the jump starter to provide power even if it doesn't detect a battery, often letting you jump start vehicles despite severely drained batteries. Depending on the jump starter, boost modes can bypass some safety checks, including polarity protection, so it's important to follow the instructions in your jump starter's manual to avoid sparks or damaging your battery or electrical systems.
The boost button on the AstroAI S8 is located on the cable plug. Be sure to follow each manufacturer's instructions when using boost buttons because they can bypass safety systems. Most typical jumps don't require boost buttons, only those with severely discharged batteries. Credit: Chris Maxcer
Battery
We rank batteries based on verified usable capacity (Wh), testing each unit against its manufacturer's claims. Higher usable capacity directly correlates to more jump starts between charges, providing better reliability in the field. Our evaluation also accounts for battery chemistry, recharging speeds, and the versatility of USB-C and USB-A ports for powering mobile devices during emergencies.
The NOCO Boost X GBX155 has the largest battery capacity we tested, with one of the top efficiencies when draining it to charge other devices. Manufacturers typically state their claimed jump starter battery capacities in watt hours (Wh), which represents the theoretical capacity of the battery cells. Actually, using the battery results in significant energy loss due to cables, connections, and internal resistance. In our bench battery drain test, the GBX155 delivered 87% of its 99 Wh battery, which is very impressive and is one indicator of a higher quality battery.
Claimed capacityMeasured capacity
NOCO specifies that its Boost X GBX155 has a large 99 Wh battery. During our capacity testing, we confirmed its large capacity, successfully using 86.1 Wh, which is well within the expected range when considering typical energy loss during use.
The WOLFBOX MegaVolt24 also has a large 88 Wh battery that delivered 82.3 Wh in our testing, which is a whopping 93% of its claimed capacity. When jump starting a typical midsize 4-liter engine with a dead battery, the MegaVolt24 only used 3% of its battery for each jump start. While we didn't attempt to jump start this vehicle 30 times, the capacity and efficiency of this model's battery inspires confidence.
The WOLFBOX MegaVolt24 has a large 88.8 Wh lithium-ion battery. Credit: Chris Maxcer
During our testing, we were able to successfully utilize 93% of the MegaVolt24 battery's claimed capacity. Credit: Chris Maxcer
Not all jump starters delivered near their claimed capacities. The budget-friendly S Zevzo ET03 4000A only delivered 42 Wh of its claimed 74 Wh battery during our test. This is a bit lower than we'd like to see, but this pint-sized model still packs 42 Wh, which is more than most competitors in its size and price range.
While the inexpensive S Zevzo ET03 4000A did not have the most efficient battery capacity when we drained it, it still delivered 42 Wh, which is more than options in its price range. Credit: Chris Maxcer
Sealed lead acid jump starters like the Clore Automotive JNC660 have much lower watt-hour ratings than the lithium-ion models. Simply put, SLA batteries are designed to deliver higher current for short periods and don't excel at long-term power draw. But they do have enough juice to power 12V accessories for a few hours. The Dewalt DXAEJ14 and Stanley J5C09 even have USB ports to get a couple of charges on mobile devices, though they're not as useful for recharging devices during home power outages compared to most lithium-ion options.
Sealed lead acid models, like the Stanely J5C09, tend to have lower capacities than lithium-ion models. The key difference is that they can use that capacity more effectively during hard-starting, long cranking jump starts. Credit: Rob Woodworth
Taking all the details on the battery led to our final rating below:
Craftsmanship & Durability
We evaluated each model's construction to determine its durability and ideal storage environment. Whether a unit is designed for a glove box or the rugged floor of a work truck, we tested it for waterproof ratings, switch durability, and overall structural integrity. Our assessment also accounts for cable length and ergonomic design to ensure each device is as functional in a shop as it is in a center console.
If you want a beefy, no-holds-barred lithium-ion-powered jump starter, the NOCO Boost X GBX155 and Boost HD GB70 both feature permanently attached cables that remove connection problems or debris issues that can arise over time in outdoor environments. The smaller NOCO Boost Plus GB40 has removable cables, but it shares the same ultra-rugged case design, port covers, and high-quality cable clamps.
The NOCO models don't come with a hard case, but the case structures are more ruggedly constructed than typical competitors.
The fit and finish of the WOLFBOX MegaVolt24 and MegaVolt 16 Air is outstanding. The cases aren't as rugged as the NOCO models, but they're not creaky and all seams are precise. We particularly appreciate the included hard-sided carrying cases that protect the devices from dust, debris, and tools.
The WOLFBOX MegaVolt24 includes a protective, hard-sided zippered case. We appreciate these cases when we need to stow jump starters around other tools inside vehicles. Credit: Chris Maxcer
The WOLFBOX MegaVolt16 Air has a giant LCD screen, which is protected by the included hard case. Credit: Chris Maxcer
Though it isn't the fanciest, the Clore Automotive JNC660 was arguably the most indestructible SLA-type jump starter with welders grade cables and no extra bits to get broken. The Dewalt and Stanley models had more working components that could potentially fail and extra pieces that would quickly get lost if not stored somewhere. The GOOLOO 2000 is decently well built but lost some points because it uses thin plastic and cables, has poor coverage on its power ports, and somewhat gives the impression of an off-brand bargain alternative to more reputable units.
The JNC 660 has a very simplistic design that includes long heavy-duty welding cables but lacks additional features - perhaps a strength if you're looking for longevity. Credit: Rob Woodworth
Ease of Use
When rating ease of use, we awarded points for features that improved the user experience. Similarly, points were deducted if we found the interface to be confusing or inefficient. We considered built-in safety features, buttons, ports, indicators, as well as length of cables and clamp designs.
Modern jump starters have evolved with much better usability features than in years past, but some features we appreciate more than others, including bright indicator lights and screens that clearly identify battery levels. The HULKMAN Alpha85S impressed us with its large screen and monster green “READY” status indicator. If you're a jump-starting newbie, you'll likely appreciate the confirmation that this unit is ready for you to start your engine.
The HULKMAN Alpha85S displays an exact battery level and a “ready” indicator letting you know when it's time to start the car. Credit: Ross Patton
The NOCO Boost HD GB70 and Boost X GBX155 were straightforward in application and do not require assembly by plugging in cables. However, the rugged covers don't make the buttons and lights as obvious as those with digital screens.
The GBX155 isn't exactly hard to use, but it's button and indicator design isn't as easy to understand at a glance as those with digital screens. Credit: Chris Maxcer
Of the sealed lead acid models we tested, the Clore Automotive JNC660 was one of the most simple and easy-to-use models in our test. Simply connect to your battery, and you're good to go. The Dewalt DXAEJ14 was less intuitive and we found ourselves consulting the manuals for proper use. Furthermore, it tended to drain the battery if we neglected to power it down, lacking the auto-off feature that other models came equipped with.
Cable Length and Clamps
Short cables can make battery connections difficult, particularly when jumping larger vehicles with big batteries. Even when smaller models have the power to jump start larger vehicles, choosing models with slightly longer cables, like the NOCO Boost X GBX155 or NOCO Boost HD GB70 can save you some connection hassles. Sealed lead acid models tend to have the longest cables, but their overall sizes result in less portability.
If you jump start a wide variety of vehicles, you might appreciate the extra long cables built into the NOCO Boost X GBX155. Credit: Chris Maxcer
Smaller jump starter cables are usually shorter, which can be annoying in some situations. However, the small, lightweight size of the AstroAI S8 makes it easy to set near the terminals when starting. Credit: Chris Maxcer
A comparison of cable lengths on the three SLA jumper types we tested. Credit: Rob Woodworth
Poor quality clamps are hard to use and struggle to grip battery terminals. Modern vehicles now have many different cable connections on the battery terminals, creating more difficult connections with clamps. While a strong bite with high-quality copper teeth is important, the shape of the clamps can affect usability. All of the NOCO jump starters we tested have the best clamp design. They're strong but have thin jaws that can fit into tight spaces around battery terminals.
We were particularly impressed by the NOCO clamps. Their stout, narrow design with wide jaws let us quickly and easily find the best connection on every vehicle we jumped. Credit: Chris Maxcer
Versatility
Most of the time, a portable jump starter simply waits patiently in your car for an opportunity to boost a dead battery. Perfect. But some jump starters can now do more to get you back on the road. The most versatile include flashlights, handy USB-C ports for fast charging your phone, and even built-in air compressors.
As long as you have a bit more space in your vehicle, we're fans of jump starters with built-in air compressors. When your vehicle's Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensors detect low pressure in your tires, pulling over to inflate your tires to specs is fast and easy with these models. The WOLFBOX MegaVolt16 Air and NOCO Boost+Air AX65 are not only great jumpers, they're great at tire inflation, too.
If you've ever driven around town fruitlessly looking for a gas station that has an air compressor for topping off low tires, you might appreciate a jump starter that includes a built-in air compressor. The MegaVolt16 Air is one of the most compact options we tested. Credit: Chris Maxcer
The NOCO Boost+Air AX65 has a high-quality, extra-long air compressor hose that makes topping off larger tires a bit easier. Credit: Chris Maxcer
Having a built-in air compressor is very handy if you have lots of wheeled implements of transportation. Credit: Rob Woodworth
While most models include USB-A ports for charging devices, USB-A is very slow compared to newer USB-C ports. Even so, not all USB-C ports are created equal. If you want a versatile jump starter you can use as a backup charger during road trips or power outages at home, look for models with larger batteries and fast 60-watt USB-C input/output ports. The NOCO Boost X GBX155, HULKMAN Alpha85S, WOLFBOX MegaVolt24 and MegaVolt16 Air all blend higher capacity batteries with fast USB-C charging.
The USB-C port on the left offers fast 65-watt input/output charging while the slower USB-A port on the right offers compatibility for older cables and devices. Model shown: WOLFBOX MegaVolt24. Credit: Chris Maxcer
Built-in flashlights are another handy feature we appreciate, especially at night when the car we're trying to jump start doesn't even have enough juice to power interior lights, much less headlights. The HULKMAN Alpha85S takes the built-in flashlight a step further by adding an emergency red color into the flashlight function.
The Alpha852S has a red flashing light setting to be used in case of an emergency or an emergency party. Credit: Ross Patton
How to Pick the Best Jump Starter
A high-quality jump starter is worth its weight in gold if you find yourself stranded without a charge. Although many of the options available look practically identical, our in-depth testing revealed nuanced characteristics that can make the difference between a great jump starter and a relatively mediocre model. Let's take a closer look at a few key aspects and choice considerations that can help guide your purchase decision.
Sealed Lead Acid vs. Lithium-Ion Batteries
Both sealed lead-acid (SLA) and lithium-ion (LI) batteries have strengths and weaknesses. The most obvious distinction between the two is their weight: SLAs are much heavier and considerably larger than LIs. Additionally, LI batteries generally offer greater power per ounce and can hold more watt hours of potential energy. SLAs are cheap, long-lasting, and reliable, but only if properly maintained. They will require a charge after each jump, whereas LI jump starters can provide consecutive jumps without a recharge. SLA batteries will also drain over time, whereas LI packs will hold their power longer.
The key reason to choose an SLA model is if you need to start vehicles that require longer cranking cycles for several seconds to coax an engine back to life. SLA-based models are generally better at providing strong currents for longer durations. The key reason to choose a lithium-ion model is if you want a compact, packable option to stow in your vehicle.
Differentiating between the two is easy — LI batteries look like a slim, modern battery pack, while SLA options look like a big, bulky charging pack. If you look at the specs we list in our comparison chart, you will also notice a significant difference in weight. The LI packs generally weigh less than five pounds, while the SLA packs weigh in excess of 15 pounds.
How Often Do You Need to Jump-start Your Battery?
It is also important to consider how often you might need to use your jump starter, as not every model in our lineup holds the same amount of power. Although you'll sometimes see manufacturers list milliamp hours (mAh) or amp hours (Ah), this isn't a particularly useful measurement unless you factor in the required voltage. So, we designed our tests to examine watt hours, not amp hours, to reflect battery storage potential across various voltages. This is a better way to differentiate just how many jumps you can expect out of each charger. In general, if you need to jump-start your vehicle often, then it's worthwhile to go with the model that offers the greatest storage potential before the pack itself needs to be recharged. You'll see watt hours listed under the specs in our comparison chart.
What Size Battery and Vehicles Do You Need to Boost?
Even though most of us will only need to jump start our everyday passenger vehicles, some of us may need to start a larger engine. The capability of a jump starter is often rated by its 'peak amps' (peak output as measured in amperes), and this is a good place to start to differentiate between the top output power of each model. However, there is no industry standard for measuring or claiming peak amps, and some manufactures abuse this metric by implying their models are more powerful or useful than they really are.
Better manufacturers also indicate the size of gas and diesel engines they're rated to jump start, for instance, up to 8-liter gas or 6-liter diesel engines. Quality of components come into play here, too, as does the capacity of the jump starters own battery. If you want to jump start large, full-size pickups you'll want to error toward higher quality lithium-ion models with larger battery capacities or SLA-based options.
Where Will You Store Your Jump Starter?
As we mentioned before, size and weight are one of the defining lines between SLA- and LI-powered jump-starters. LI batteries are the lighter, more compact option. But that doesn't necessarily mean that you want to store your new jump starter in a glove compartment. For many, these are utility tools and are better suited to kick around in the back of a work truck. However, not every jump starter we tested is well-suited to this rough-and-tumble lifestyle. Pay attention to our Craftsmanship & Durability metric to sort out which models are designed to take a beating. If you plan to use these on a boat, this metric also takes into consideration waterproof ratings and cable length. In addition, some come with rigid protective cases while other give you a flimsy sack.
We must admit, we appreciate portable jump starters that include handy, hard-sided cases that make safe and tidy storage simple. Credit: Chris Maxcer
Conclusion
We hope that this review has brought light to your search for the perfect jump starter. In a market flooded with consumer electronics, we value the opportunity to help you narrow the options in picking a model that will work best for your needs. A dead car battery can happen to anyone, and we hope that our testing can help you remain assured that you'll never be stuck without power on the side of the road, out in the woods, or wherever adventure may find you.
In some situations, calling a friend for a jump start is not an option. Credit: Ross Patton
Having a jump starter on hand can truly save the day. Credit: Ross Patton
A jump starter is a great tool for those that tend to spend time in the outback. Credit: Ross Patton
—Ross Patton, Chris Maxcer, Buck Yedor & Rob Woodworth
