There’s nothing quite like the sinking feeling of turning your key and hearing only a faint click from a dead car battery. Whether you left an interior light on overnight or your battery has simply reached the end of its life, being stranded is an inconvenience at best and a dangerous situation at worst. This is where a portable battery jump pack becomes an essential piece of modern gear for any driver.
Unlike bulky, traditional jumper cables that require a second vehicle, these compact powerhouses are self-contained units you can store in your glove box or trunk. Modern jump starters are more than just emergency battery boosters; they often double as high-capacity power banks for your devices and feature built-in LED lights for visibility. This roundup will guide you through nine of the best options to ensure you’re never left powerless on the road.
Our Recommended Emergency Jump Starters
- NOCO Boost GB40: 1000A UltraSafe Jump Starter
- Clore Automotive Jump-N-Carry JNC770R 1700 Peak Amp
- Professional-Grade 7000A Peak Car Battery Jump Starter
- Clore Automotive Jump-N-Carry JNC660 1700 Peak Amp
- WOLFBOX MV24 4000A Jump Starter with 65W Quick Charger
- STANLEY J5C09D 1200 Peak Amp Jump Starter
- Schumacher Electric 2000A Lithium Car Battery Jump Starter
- GOOLOO GP4000 SuperSafe Car Jump Starter
- DBPOWER 800A Peak Portable Car Jump Starter
NOCO Boost GB40: 1000A UltraSafe Jump Starter
The NOCO Boost GB40 is a highly-regarded and compact jump starter, famous for its reliability and safety features. It delivers 1000 amps of peak power, which is sufficient to start dead batteries on engines up to 6.0L gas and 3.0L diesel. A single charge can provide up to 20 jump starts, making it an incredibly dependable tool for frequent use or emergencies.
Its standout feature is the UltraSafe Technology, which includes patented spark-proof and reverse polarity protection. This design prevents sparks and protects both you and your vehicle’s electronics from damage caused by incorrect connections. Furthermore, it functions as a portable power bank with a USB output, allowing you to recharge smartphones and tablets, and it recharges fully in just three hours.
Clore Automotive Jump-N-Carry JNC770R
For those who need serious, professional-grade power, the Clore Jump-N-Carry JNC770R is a top contender. It boasts a massive 1,700 peak amps and 425 cranking amps, providing the robust energy needed to start larger vehicles and equipment. This model is built with durability and high-performance in mind, utilizing advanced Clore PROFORMER battery technology.
The unit features exceptionally long and thick 68-inch 2 AWG welding cable leads. This generous length provides the flexibility needed to connect to batteries in hard-to-reach engine bays. While it is larger than some lithium options, its raw power and reliable performance make it a favorite among mechanics and professionals who cannot afford to be let down.
Professional-Grade 7000A Peak Car Battery Jump Starter
This jump starter is engineered for the most demanding situations, featuring an impressive 7000A peak current and a 5000A cold cranking amp (CCA) rating. It includes a special Force Start function, acting as a dual safeguard to start completely dead or low-voltage batteries. It is capable of handling all gas engines and large diesel engines up to 10.0L, even in extreme temperatures from -4°F to 140°F.
Beyond its jumping power, it serves as a multi-purpose quick battery charger with a massive 26800mAh capacity. It has two USB ports and includes an EC5 cigarette lighter adapter for powering various 12V devices like tire pumps or car refrigerators. The unit also features a very bright 400-lumen LED light with three modes and an integrated compass, making it a comprehensive emergency tool.
Clore Automotive Jump-N-Carry JNC660
The Clore JNC660 is another powerful and reliable option from a trusted brand in the automotive industry. It delivers 1,700 peak amps and 425 cranking amps, powered by a robust 22Ah Clore PROFORMER battery. This unit is designed for consistent performance and is well-suited for a wide range of vehicles, from everyday cars to light-duty trucks.
It comes equipped with 46-inch heavy-duty #2 AWG cables that are built to withstand rigorous use. The JNC660 is known for its straightforward, no-frills approach, focusing on delivering the essential power needed to get a vehicle started quickly and reliably. Its proven track record makes it a solid, time-tested choice.
WOLFBOX MV24 4000A Jump Starter
The WOLFBOX MV24 combines high capacity with modern charging technology. Its 24000mAh battery and 4000A peak current make it suitable for 12V vehicles, including cars, trucks, and boats with engines under 10 liters. A key feature is the HD LCD display, which clearly shows the status of the unit, including remaining power and input/output information.
This jump starter stands out with its 65W USB-C quick charging capability, allowing it to be fully recharged in approximately 1.3 hours with the included charger. It also has a QC3.0 USB-A port, enabling it to charge a wide array of devices, including laptops and phones, making it an excellent power source for travel and camping beyond its primary function.
STANLEY J5C09D 1200 Peak Amp Jump Starter
The STANLEY J5C09D is a versatile all-in-one emergency device. It provides 1200 peak amps and 600 instant starting amps, which is ample power for most standard passenger vehicles. It includes a reverse polarity alarm that alerts you with an audible signal if the clamps are connected improperly, adding a layer of safety and peace of mind.
What sets this unit apart is the integrated 120 PSI air compressor, which is invaluable for inflating tires with low pressure. It also features a high-powered LED light that rotates 270 degrees, illuminating your workspace in dark conditions. This combination of jumping power, an air compressor, and a light makes it a comprehensive roadside assistant.
Schumacher Electric 2000A Lithium Car Battery Jump Starter
The Schumacher SL1643 is a modern 4-in-1 device that consolidates several useful tools. It delivers a strong 2000-amp jump start, capable of starting engines up to 10.0L gas and diesel. As a compact lithium power pack, it is both powerful and portable, fitting easily in your vehicle’s storage compartment.
Its multi-functionality is its greatest strength. In addition to jumping vehicles, it features a fast 10W wireless charging pad for compatible smartphones, a standard USB-A port for wired charging, and a built-in LED light. This makes it an excellent companion for daily commuting, providing both emergency power for your car and convenient charging for your devices.
GOOLOO GP4000 SuperSafe Car Jump Starter
The GOOLOO GP4000 is designed with a focus on both power and safety. With a 4000A peak current, it provides ample strength to start a wide range of vehicles, from compact cars to larger trucks. The “SuperSafe” designation indicates it includes multiple protection features to ensure safe operation during the jump-starting process.
Like other modern jump starters, it is expected to include a high-capacity battery that also functions as a power bank for charging electronic devices via USB ports. GOOLOO products are generally known for offering a strong balance of performance and value, making the GP4000 a solid contender for those seeking reliable power without complexity.
DBPOWER 800A Peak Portable Car Jump Starter
The DBPOWER jump starter is a compact and affordable option ideal for standard passenger cars and motorcycles. With 800A peak current and an 18000mAh battery capacity, it provides sufficient power for most common jump-starting needs while remaining highly portable. Its smaller size makes it easy to store in a glove box for everyday carry.
This unit is designed for simplicity and ease of use. It typically includes essential safety protections like reverse polarity and short-circuit protection. It also functions as a power bank to charge phones and other USB devices, and it often comes with a built-in LED flashlight, making it a practical and budget-friendly emergency tool for the average driver.
What to Look For in the Best Battery Jump Packs for Emergency Car Starting
I’ve been stranded with a dead car battery more times than I’d like to admit, and let me tell you, it’s no fun. That’s why I always keep a portable jump pack in my trunk. But not all jump starters are created equal. If you’re looking to buy one, here are the key things I think you should consider to make sure you get a pack that will actually work when you need it most.
First up is power, which is measured in peak amps and cranking amps (often written as CCA). For most standard four-cylinder and six-cylinder gasoline engines, a jump pack with a peak amp rating between 1000 and 2000 is usually sufficient. If you drive a larger vehicle like a truck or an SUV, or if you live in a very cold climate, you’ll want to look for something on the higher end of that scale, or even beyond. It’s better to have more power than you think you need than to be left with a pack that can’t turn your engine over on a chilly morning.
Next, consider the battery technology. Most modern packs use lithium-ion batteries because they’re incredibly lightweight and compact compared to the old, heavy lead-acid ones. This is a huge plus for storage. However, lithium batteries don’t love extreme temperatures. I make a habit of not leaving my lithium jump pack in a scorching hot car for days on end, as it can degrade the battery over time. Some models have built-in protection against this, but it’s a good practice to bring it inside during very hot or cold spells.
Another feature I now consider essential is a digital display. It might seem like a small thing, but seeing the exact battery percentage is a game-changer. It tells you with certainty that the unit is charged and ready for action, eliminating the guesswork of those simple three- or four-LED light indicators. Some advanced displays even show you the voltage of your car’s battery, which can help you diagnose if the battery is completely dead or just low.
Finally, look at the extra features. Almost all jump packs double as power banks for charging your phone and other USB devices, which is incredibly useful. Some also include a built-in flashlight, and this has been a lifesaver for me when trying to hook up cables in a dark parking lot. Many even have strobe or SOS modes for real emergencies. Pay attention to the safety features, too. Look for things like reverse polarity protection, which prevents you from accidentally connecting the clamps backwards and causing a dangerous spark. A spark-proof design gives you that extra peace of mind.
FAQ
How long does a portable jump starter hold its charge?
This is a common concern, and rightly so. In my experience, a good quality lithium-ion jump pack can hold a charge for quite a long time—anywhere from six months to a full year when sitting idle in your trunk. However, I strongly recommend checking the manufacturer’s instructions and making a habit of topping off the charge every three to six months, just to be safe. There’s nothing worse than going to use it in an emergency and finding it’s drained itself over time.
Can I use a jump pack on a completely dead battery?
Yes, absolutely. This is their primary job. A portable jump starter is designed to provide the necessary burst of power to crank your engine, even if your car’s battery is completely dead and won’t even power the interior lights. It acts as an external power source to get the engine turning. Once the engine is running, your car’s alternator takes over and begins recharging the dead battery.
Are these jump starters safe for all types of cars?
For the vast majority of standard gasoline-engine cars, trucks, and SUVs, they are perfectly safe. The key is to ensure you get one with adequate power for your engine size. When it comes to larger diesel trucks or vehicles with complex electronic systems, you need to be a bit more careful. Always check the jump pack’s specifications to confirm it’s rated for your type of engine. The safety features I mentioned, like reverse polarity protection, also make them much safer for modern vehicles than traditional jumper cables.
What is the difference between peak amps and cranking amps?
This is a crucial distinction. Think of peak amps as the maximum, short-lived burst of power the jump pack can deliver for a split second to overcome the initial resistance of a cold engine. Cranking Amps (CA) and the more common Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) represent the sustained power it can deliver for about 30 seconds to keep the engine turning over. When you’re evaluating the 9 best battery jump packs for emergency car starting, you should pay attention to both numbers, but the CCA rating is often a more realistic measure of its everyday capability.
Can I travel on an airplane with a portable jump starter?
This is a big no. Due to their high-capacity lithium-ion batteries, portable jump starters are almost always prohibited in checked baggage and carry-on luggage by airlines like the FAA. The battery’s watt-hour (Wh) rating is typically far above the limit allowed for air travel. You should never attempt to bring one on a plane. If you need one at your destination, it’s better to buy one there or ship it ahead of time using a ground shipping service.