How to Choose a Portable Jump Starter (Without Overpaying)
A portable jump starter is a battery pack that starts your car by itself. No second car, no cables strung between bumpers, no waiting for a stranger. Cold weather is rough on car batteries, which is why these sell like crazy every fall.
The specs look confusing, but only a few things matter. Here's what to look for, then our picks for different cars.
Peak amps: bigger engines need more. Most cars are fine with a mid-size pack. Trucks, V8s and diesels want a big one. Check what engine size each pack is rated for, not just the amp number, since brands measure amps differently.
Safety: look for spark-proof clamps and reverse-polarity protection. That means if you clip the clamps on backwards in a panic, nothing bad happens.
Force start: a totally dead battery (0 volts) can confuse some packs. A "force start" or "boost" button gets around that.
- Top pick
NOCO Boost GB40 Jump Starter
One of the best-known names in jump starters. NOCO's spark-proof clamps make it very hard to hook up wrong, it holds up to 20 starts per charge, and it doubles as a phone charger and flashlight. It costs a bit more, but it's the safe, simple pick.
Best for: most cars and SUVs, and anyone nervous about jumping a car.
Check price on Amazon AstroAI S8 Portable Jump Starter
A smaller, lighter pack rated for up to 6.0L gas engines, with a boost button for very drained batteries. Great value for regular cars.
Best for: sedans, small SUVs and keeping in the glovebox.
Check price on AmazonS ZEVZO ET03 Jump Starter
More power, rated for up to 8.0L gas engines, with force start for completely dead batteries. It also has a big power bank and a very bright 500-lumen light.
Best for: bigger SUVs and pickups.
Check price on AmazonOXILAM 6000A Jump Starter
The heavy hitter. Rated for all gas engines and big diesels, with a tough waterproof shell.
Best for: trucks, diesels, boats and people who help everyone else on the road.
Check price on AmazonJump Starter with Air Compressor (4500A)
A jump starter and tire inflator in one box, with force start and a 150 PSI pump. Dead batteries and low tires are the two most common roadside problems, and this covers both.
Best for: people who only want one gadget in the trunk.
Check price on Amazon
Before you buy
Charge it every 3 to 6 months, even if you never use it. A dead jump starter is just a heavy brick. Many people set a phone reminder for the start of each season.
Store it in the cabin or trunk, not in direct sun on the dashboard. Lithium batteries don't like extreme heat. And read the quick-start card once before you need it, not on the side of the road.