Money may earn a commission when you click on the products and services below. Opinions are our own, but compensation and in-depth research determine where and how they appear. Learn more about how we make money.
Carlos Silva has been covering financial topics for over four years, from robo advisors to home insurance and his main specialization: credit cards. As a former educator, he values financial literacy and works towards the goal of financial inclusivity.
Brad Tuttle is a senior editor at Money with over 10 years’ experience covering a vast number of personal finance topics, including careers, cars, travel, budgeting, investing, insurance, credit cards, consumer psychology, real estate, banking, and shopping and deals.
It’s awful to hop into your car for work only to find out it has a dead battery. Even worse, you could go for a hike and find the battery drained when you get back, leaving you stuck in the middle of nowhere. In the past, you needed to call a roadside assistance service or find someone with another car and jumper cables to get your vehicle started. Otherwise, that hike would have become much longer than you’d planned.
However, nowadays, there are easy ways to jump-start your car without having to rely on someone else to come to your aid. Jump starters, also called jump packs, boosters and battery chargers, have become more common and far more accessible than before.
Jump starters used to be large and bulky, usually heavier and bigger than an actual car battery. They were also made with inefficient lead-acid batteries that delivered less than what you'd expect for their size. Modern jump starters are mostly made with lithium batteries, which are far more versatile and can be much smaller and lighter.
While some mechanics and car enthusiasts still consider lead-acid jump starters “heavy duty” due to their long-standing reputation and their availability from top brands, the reality is that lithium technology has come a long way.
Lithium batteries (mostly lithium-ion, the type of battery inside your phone and laptop) can have significantly more capacity in less than half the space than a lead-acid battery. Lead-acid models are usually fairly bulky and weigh from 30 to 40 pounds. The typical lithium-based jump starter is roughly 1 to 3 pounds, though larger models can almost reach 10 pounds and 12 inches in length. Even so, they're generally small enough to store in the glove compartment, instead of the trunk.
Just like power banks, lithium jump starters are rechargeable through common USB ports and easily found online from $60 to $100 — though some models are listed for much higher prices.
Lithium also holds a charge for much longer now. At the moment, lithium batteries hold their charge for triple the time of lead-acid batteries.
One advantage lead-acid batteries were thought to have was their performance in cold weather. However, that has also been slowly surpassed by lithium, especially with the addition of technology to protect the batteries from outside cold or preheat them before use.
Finally, high amps are easy to come by on lithium jump starters now, so they also fit the idea of “heavy-duty,” even if their size doesn’t show it.
Jump Starter Buying Guide
Most of our jump starter selections are lithium-based. We made an exception because there are still no lithium battery jump starters that include an air compressor, so those who want that two-in-one versatility will have to look at lead-acid models, of which there are still many high-quality options.
Here are some other things to keep in mind when shopping for jump starters:
• Amps. Amps are the main spec to look at in jump starters; the number indicates how much power can be delivered to the car battery to jump-start an engine. Generally speaking, when a larger and more powerful vehicle is dead, it’ll require a jump starter with higher amps to bring it back to life.
There are three different types of amps to consider when browsing for jump starters. Peak amps refer to the maximum discharge a jump starter can provide for a limited time (one to three seconds) while cranking amps is a more stable discharge that can be held for several seconds or even over a minute in some models. This makes cranking amps the more realistic measurement of the two since it’s the one that’ll do most of the work.
Finally, there are the cold cranking amps, which is how many amps a device can pump out in 0° weather. If the product doesn’t advertise the cold cranking amps, it might mention the temperatures at which it works.
Unfortunately, not every company discloses these three measurements; many simply highlight the peak amps because it’s a more impressive number.
Most consumer vehicles, such as compact sedans up to mid-size SUVs, require 300 to 600 amps to start, easily achievable by a quality jump starter rated at 1,000 peak amps. Commercial trucks, on the other hand, could need products rated in the 3,000 to 5,000 peak amp range.
• Capacity. A jump starter’s capacity relates to how many times — or for how long — it can send power to the car’s battery. It also indicates how many charges it can provide to other devices, such as phones and tablets.
This is measured in milliamp hours (mAh), just like the average power bank. If you travel long distances, own several cars or have a job that includes jump-starting batteries (such as roadside assistance), then capacity will be crucial. But even if that’s not the case, it doesn’t hurt to have a large battery for emergencies that might arise, or just so the flashlight that came with the jump starter stays powered.
Most jump starters have over 8,000mAh, and a significant number of newer ones have between 15,000 and 20,000mAh. According to manufacturer claims, a 20,000mAh battery will charge your phone about seven times; jump-start numbers are very inconsistent across products, with claims ranging from 20 to 80 jump-starts in a single charge. It’s important to note, however, that normally, higher amps will mean lower capacity in the batteries, so jump starters that feature both high capacity and high amperage will likely be much larger than an average power bank.
• Build quality and safety features. The quality and trustworthiness of the brand itself are very important for a product that can save you from being stranded or perhaps losing your job because you can’t make it to work.
Beyond brand names, there’s the physical build quality of the jump starter's parts and accessories. For example, batteries, especially lithium batteries, can easily be damaged if dropped. So a rugged protective outer shell is important, especially in stressful situations on the side of a road.
You might also do well to consider the length and thickness of the jumper cables, which are included with virtually all jump starters. (Yes, you still need to use jumper cables with these products. Although some newer models have been able to charge the battery through the 12V cigarette lighter inside the vehicle, most still use traditional jumper cables and clamps attached to the battery poles.) Make sure the included jumper cables don’t easily expose the wiring inside or even break while being folded for months at a time. Most jump starter models have short jumper cables, maybe 1.5 feet in length. Longer cables allow you to place the jump starter in a more secure spot than right on top of the engine.
Finally, look at the clamps. Strong clamps won’t come off easily when the engine starts rumbling, which could stop the charging process. To judge the strength of the clamps, you might have to watch reviews or see them in person, but you can also look at product photos and descriptions to evaluate their size and girth and the shape of the teeth. Some products also have safety features so that clamps won’t spark when accidentally rubbed together, along with reverse polarity protection for when you accidentally switch them; this will normally be advertised.
• Extra features. Other than the ability to jump-start your car, these devices often come with additional features to help you during emergencies. Most of them have flashlights. Some come with USB ports (even USB-C ones for faster charging), 12V lighter-style connections and three-prong DC outlets that let you connect fans, work lights or air compressors. Some go even further and actually include built-in air compressors to cover other roadside crises, like a flat tire.
Peak amps: 400A | Capacity: 8,000mAh | Advertised maximum engine sizes: 6.0L gas / 3.0L diesel
Revolutionize your vehicle battery troubles with the Type S Touring Items Jump Starter, a versatile solution designed to jump-start any vehicle battery with unparalleled ease. Say goodbye to traditional jumper cables and embrace the convenience of this advanced car battery jump starter, compatible with gas engines up to 6.0L and diesel engines up to 3.0L. No matter the size or type of your vehicle, this booster pack has you covered.
Empower your devices on the go with the integrated power bank, equipped with a built-in lightning cable. Never worry about forgetting your charging cable again; this portable power bank fits seamlessly into your glove box or accompanies you wherever you travel. Keep your devices charged and ready for action. Experience the next level of convenience with this jump starter’s Qi wireless charger. Boasting multiple charging ports, including USB-C, this portable charger is compatible with a wide array of devices. The added Qi wireless charging pad ensures that even wireless charging is at your fingertips, simplifying your charging needs and making this the top choice on our list.
Pros:
Compatible with gas and diesel engines
Built-in lightning cable for easy device charging
Qi wireless charger for added device compatibility
Peak amps: 2,000A | Capacity: 20,000mAh | Advertised maximum engine sizes: 8.5L gas / 6.0L diesel
The Fanttik 2,000-AMP Jump Starter is a reliable companion for unexpected roadside emergencies. This powerhouse jump starter packs a punch with its remarkable 2,000-AMP peak current. This ensures that you'll never be left stranded with a dead battery. So, whether you're driving a car, truck, boat, or motorcycle, this jump starter has the power to breathe life back into your vehicle. You can get back on your journey with confidence.
With this jump starter, safety is paramount. Its built-in safety features include reverse polarity protection, overcurrent protection, and short-circuit protection. You can jump-start your vehicle worry-free with this device. It's designed to safeguard your vehicle's electrical system and the jump starter itself. Not only does it provide peace of mind in every jump-starting operation but it is versatile.
Peak amps: 3,000A︱Capacity: 8,000mAh ︱ Advertised maximum engine sizes: 9.0L gas / 7.0L diesel
When car experts think of jump starters, NOCO is probably the first name that comes to mind. The company has a wide variety of products, from small 500A jump starters to 6250A power stations, as well as industrial battery chargers.
The GB150 jump starter is a great buy for both regular car owners and professionals alike. It delivers 3,000 peak amps, which is powerful enough to jump-start nearly any mainstream car or truck sold today, and one of the best and most consistent discharge rates in the industry. This means that it can maintain a steady discharge rate for a prolonged period of time — even over a minute, depending on the vehicle.
While it’s costly at $300, the GB150 can power even the largest pickup trucks, and its peak current and steady discharge rates are certainly worth the money for the peace of mind they provided. Cheaper options like the Gooloo Titan Series GP4000 will deliver close results on the peak amps, and are a good option for budget-minded consumers that drive large vehicles. However, products like these are generally considered not nearly as good as the NOCO in discharge consistency or long-term reliability.
The NOCO does have some drawbacks, though. First, it doesn’t come with a good, protective case, only a bag. Second, it doesn’t have a USB-C port but has a Micro-USB instead. Nevertheless, its power and impressive discharge times make it one of the best portable jump starters money can buy.
Pros
Easily jump-starts diesel engines up to 7 liters
Made with high-quality, professional-level components
Recharges quickly, with indoor charging kit available
Includes safety features to prevent shocks and mistakes
Peak amps: 1500A︱Capacity: 15,000mAh︱ Advertised maximum engine sizes: 8.0L gas / 6.0L diesel
Hundreds of low-price jump starters from obscure brand names are available online. Gooloo shines through by delivering high power and affordability, as well as accuracy in its claimed amps.
The Gooloo GT1500 costs around $70 with an advertised peak amperage of 1,500. While its cranking amps, which are not mentioned, are probably half of that or less, that's still plenty of power to start anything from subcompact vehicles to large, three-row SUVs. The most important part is that testimonials and reviews claim that Gooloo jump starters deliver consistently.
It comes with a soft carrying case, a cigarette lighter adapter for the 12V input, and two USB-A ports. The GT1500 is charged through USB-C, though the USB-C port is only for input, so it can’t charge other devices through it.
Unfortunately, this model can’t really manage problems in cold weather, as it will struggle to work below 0°F. Also, as with many new brands like this, the long-term durability of Gooloo jump starters is unknown, so if you want something tried and tested, you might have to spend more.
Pros
Suitable for cars, RVs, tractors and more
Powerful 1500A peak current
Integrated LED flashlight and water-resistant design
Included black bag for portability and storage
Cons
Doesn’t come with an outlet-compatible charging cord
Peak amps: 1,400A︱Capacity: Unspecified ︱ Advertised maximum engine sizes: Not advertised
Manufactured by renowned and trusted power tool brand DeWalt, the DXAEJ14 Power Station can discharge a peak current of 1,400 amps, more than enough for anything from a motorbike to a large pickup truck.
This lead-acid battery pack has two USB-A ports to charge external electronic devices, and it’s charged via a regular, two-pronged electric extension (which you need to have or buy separately) or via a 12V cigarette-lighter cable.
It includes an air compressor that claims up to 120 psi in power. That’s slower than a decent dedicated (and expensive) tire inflator, but it’ll definitely do the job at a moment’s notice. Also, among other jump starters that include this feature, the DeWalt has proven to be the most effective at actually filling tires. You can read both the battery voltage and the tire pressure on a small LED screen, on which you can also set the target pressure you want.
Take note that while reviewers of this product on Amazon are mostly positive (76% give it 5 stars), there are many complaints in reviews on DeWalt’s site. Many of the bad reviews are based on flaws that are just the nature of this product. Many users bash the compressor for being too slow, even though compared to other two-in-one jump starters, it’s actually very good. Others complain about the DeWalt battery losing its charge too fast.
It’s worth emphasizing that this is a lead-acid jump starter, not lithium. This means that the capacity for the size is rather low (it weighs 35 pounds, compared to higher capacity lithium starters that weigh less than 10), and the self-discharge rate is much higher than a lithium battery, so it’s necessary to recharge it about every three months. If you forget to do so, you’ll find yourself with a drained battery.
If you want something more reliable, with more capacity and a longer-lasting charge, look at our selections with lithium batteries, but you’ll have to get the air compressor separately.
Peak amps: 2,000A︱Capacity: 20,000mAh ︱ Advertised maximum engine sizes: 8.5L gas / 6.0L diesel
Born as a Kickstarter project in 2020, the Hulkman brand has proven to be at the level of the top jump starters in the market. With a high amp count of 2,000 and a very big battery of 20,000mAh, the Alphas are powerful devices with enough extra features to please most buyers.
Its large screen shows the amount of charge left on the jump starter and lets you know when the car battery is ready to turn on. It has one USB-C and two regular USB-A ports, along with a 12V port to use with the included lighter-style adapter. All the extra cables and the clamps are stored in the included hard shell case, which makes carrying it a lot easier and safer.
They’re advertised as being able to power up large gas engines up to 8.5L, and 6.0L diesel ones. It can also power up batteries that are nearly dead (far below 7.0V). Although it won’t detect a battery with such low voltage at first, you can “override it” by pressing the power and flashlight buttons simultaneously. The pack will start charging the battery and delivering the necessary amps. According to testimonials and reviews, it works perfectly well even on batteries below 1.0V.
The 85S even has a trick up its sleeve that sets it apart from the competition and its own brand siblings: pre-heat technology that allows it to work in temperatures as low as -40°F.
Although it has been well-tested and delivers on its jump-starting claims, this is a fairly new product, so long-term durability is still uncertain. Keep that in mind when making the purchase.
Pros
Well-packaged with clear instructions
Easy-to-read display and durable construction
Heavy-duty cable clamps
Velcro secures wall charger and USB-C cables
Cons
Cable clamps are a tad short
Quick-charge feature may decrease battery lifespan
Peak amps: 1,000A︱Capacity: 12,800mAh ︱ Advertised maximum engine sizes: 6.0L gas / 4.0L diesel
Anker is renowned for its external battery packs, cables, adapters and other electronics. With the ROAV line, the brand applied that expertise to car-related products, including jump starters.
The ROAV Jump Starter Pro delivers a peak current of up to 1,000 amps, enough for most if not all consumer vehicles, along with 12,800mAh of capacity. The capacity is lower than competitors in its range, but Anker delivers a much higher percentage of the claimed capacity than other brands.
Just like other jump starters, the Anker ROAV comes with a carrying case, jumper cables and a cigarette-lighter adapter for the 12V input port. It has two USB A ports and a USB C in/out port to both charge the unit and charge other devices. In terms of safety, it has overheating and anti-spark protection. The jumper cable plug also has an LCD screen to read the voltage on the battery, so there’s no need for an additional monitoring tool.
If you were to encounter problems with this unit, Anker has a 12-month warranty and very responsive customer service.
A downside to this package is that it doesn’t come with a charging cable. While USB-C cables are pretty easy to get, given Anker’s specialty is high-quality cables, they should have included one here. Also, the included manual is of limited help. By contrast, some competitors even have instructions spelled out on the device itself, for the sake of safe operations, so this is a pretty big oversight.
Pros
Portable and highly capable charger
1000 CCA rating for powerful output
Fire-resistant charging pouch for safe storage
Easy to use with intuitive indicators
Cons
User manual is somewhat confusing
Not as heavy as expected for its capacity rating
Why Trust Us
Our commitment to the consumer begins with product selection and ends with the last word we write in each article. Each jump starter is carefully vetted quantitatively through star ratings and the number of reviews and qualitatively through careful examination of reviews and the features each one has to offer. Leveraging our team of bargain hunters, we’re also always sure to keep your budget in mind while we find the best jump starters on the market. Our team of experts is dedicated to accurately depicting the pros and cons of each jump starter, translating technical product specifications into information you can understand. Our goal is to provide you with the highest-quality vehicle accessories to keep your car operating smoothly without breaking the bank.
