Having a dead car battery is an incredibly frustrating experience. Whether you’re at home, work, or stranded on the side of the road, a dead battery can disrupt your entire day. Fortunately, the Best Portable Car Battery Chargers offer a convenient and reliable solution, allowing you to jump-start your vehicle yourself without needing jumper cables or another car. These devices, also known as jump starters, have become essential tools for drivers, providing peace of mind and ensuring you’re never left stranded due to a dead battery. In this comprehensive guide, we’ve tested and reviewed some of the top models on the market to help you choose the best portable car battery charger for your specific needs.
Hulkman Alpha85S
OVERALL SCORE: 77
- Power Performance 9.0
- Battery Storage 7.0
- Craftsmanship & Durability 7.0
- Ease of Use 8.0
- Versatility 6.0
REASONS TO BUY
- Clear digital battery display
- Excellent power output for jump-starting
- Long-lasting battery life
- Includes various accessories and adapters
REASONS TO AVOID
- No included carrying case
- Larger size compared to similar devices
- Higher price point
For those who prioritize top-tier performance and a comprehensive set of features in a sleek package, the HULKMAN Alpha85S stands out as a premier portable car battery charger. Our extensive testing revealed its exceptional capabilities. “In our power performance tests, this unit delivered a higher voltage than any other jump starter we evaluated,” highlighted our lead tester. “Beyond its impressive power, the Alpha85S boasted superior battery longevity and remarkably fast charging times.” The design is also noteworthy, featuring a clear digital display that precisely indicates the remaining battery percentage, a significant improvement over less informative LED indicators. It also incorporates a bright integrated flashlight and a form factor that easily fits under a car seat or in a door pocket. The Alpha85S offers versatile charging options, accepting power via USB or the included 12-volt car outlet adapter, and it can also charge USB and 12-volt devices.
SPECIFICATIONS
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Peak Amps | 2000 |
| Starting Amps | 500 |
| Watt Hours | 74 |
| Jump Starts (Est.) | 60 |
| Phone Charges (Est.) | 20 |
Despite its premium features, the HULKMAN Alpha85S does have a couple of minor drawbacks. It’s surprising that such a high-end portable car battery charger doesn’t include a storage pouch for its numerous cords and adapters. It is also physically larger than many other lithium-ion jump starters in its class. As one tester noted, “While smaller than traditional lead-acid jump starters, other lithium-ion models are more compact, fitting easily in a center console or glove compartment.” Finally, the Alpha85S is one of the more expensive options. However, for unmatched performance and cutting-edge technology in a portable car battery charger, the Alpha85S is an excellent choice. For a more budget-friendly alternative that remains highly capable, consider the NOCO Boost Plus GB40. While it may not match the Hulkman’s raw power, the NOCO Boost Plus GB40 is a high-performing lithium-ion portable car battery charger that can quickly jump-start your vehicle using its Boost mode.
The HULKMAN Alpha85S is a top-tier portable car battery charger kit in the lithium-ion category, providing users with a comprehensive solution for jump-starting and charging devices.
Credit: Ross Patton
Best Value Portable Car Battery Charger
GOOLOO GP2000
OVERALL SCORE: 63
- Power Performance 6.0
- Battery Storage 7.0
- Craftsmanship & Durability 6.0
- Ease of Use 6.0
- Versatility 5.0
REASONS TO BUY
- High-capacity battery for extended charge
- High peak amp rating (2000)
- Substantial 73-watt-hour battery
- USB and 12V DC accessory power options
REASONS TO AVOID
- Less effective on larger engines
- Bulky carrying case
- 12V AC car adapter sold separately
If your primary need is a robust portable power bank with jump-starting as a secondary function, the GOOLOO GP2000 is a compelling choice. This portable car battery charger features a high-capacity lithium-ion battery and multiple charging ports, making it ideal for powering devices on the go. It utilizes a 37Wh lithium-ion battery capable of delivering up to 2000 peak amps for jump-starting. One tester noted, “While it wasn’t as potent for jump-starting large engines in trucks, it effortlessly handled eight consecutive jump starts on a 2.5-liter engine before needing a recharge.” The GOOLOO GP2000 truly shines as a portable power bank. In our tests, the 5V USB port provided enough power to fully charge an iPhone up to 15 times on a single charge of the jump starter. The inclusion of a USB-C port for both input and output further enhances its charging versatility.
SPECIFICATIONS
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Peak Amps | 1,200 |
| Starting Amps | 500 |
| Watt Hours | 37 |
| Jump Starts (Est.) | 8 |
| Phone Charges (Est.) | 3 |
While excellent for powering devices, the GOOLOO GP2000’s jump-starting performance was less impressive. Our lead tester observed, “It is certainly capable of reviving mid-size car batteries, but it lacks the sheer power needed for larger engines with higher cranking amps.” However, its 37Wh battery provides significant charge storage, allowing it to hold power for extended periods and reliably charge your electronic devices. The GOOLOO GP2000 is a versatile and affordable portable car battery charger, offering a great balance of power bank functionality and jump-starting capability, making it an excellent value option.
Using a multimeter, we measured the output power of the GOOLOO GP2000 portable car battery charger, confirming its ability to charge USB devices like a standard wall charger.
Credit: Rob Woodworth
Best Compact Portable Car Battery Charger
NOCO Boost Plus GB40
OVERALL SCORE: 67
- Power Performance 7.0
- Battery Storage 6.0
- Craftsmanship & Durability 8.0
- Ease of Use 6.0
- Versatility 5.0
REASONS TO BUY
- Very compact and portable design
- Lightweight for easy carrying
- Boost Mode for immediate jump-starts
- IP65 Waterproof rating
REASONS TO AVOID
- No included wall plug for charging
- Not ideal for jump-starting larger engines
- Battery life could be better
- Limited feature set
If space is a premium in your vehicle, or you prefer a portable car battery charger that doesn’t take up much room, the NOCO Boost Plus GB40 is highly recommended. “This remarkably small device is significantly more compact than most competitors,” remarked a team member, “yet it consistently jump-started every vehicle we tested.” Unlike many jump starters that require a waiting period, the GB40 features a ‘Boost Mode’ that delivers a rapid surge of power to your battery, often enabling immediate engine starts. For users concerned about durability, this model boasts an IP65 waterproof rating. One tester humorously noted, “While not designed for underwater use, it can easily withstand rain and dust.”
SPECIFICATIONS
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Peak Amps | 1000 |
| Starting Amps | 500 |
| Watt Hours | 24 |
| Jump Starts (Est.) | 10 |
| Phone Charges (Est.) | 4 |
In terms of versatility, the NOCO Boost Plus GB40 is more limited. It functions as a portable car battery charger and can charge USB devices, but its feature set is basic. Charging is exclusively via USB cable, and a wall adapter is not included for indoor charging. With a 1000 peak amp rating, the GB40 is less suited for larger engines. “The compact size comes with a trade-off in battery life,” our lead tester pointed out, “so regular charging is essential with this model.” Despite these limitations, the NOCO GB40’s overall performance is impressive, especially considering its remarkably small size. If budget allows, the Hulkman Alpha85S offers superior battery performance and a wider range of accessories, making it a more powerful option in the portable jump starter category.
For those seeking a reliable and discreet portable car battery charger, the compact NOCO Boost Plus GB40 is an ideal choice, offering peace of mind without taking up excessive space.
Credit: Ross Patton
Best Portable Car Battery Charger for Home or Shop Use
Dewalt DXAEJ14
OVERALL SCORE: 60
- Power Performance 7.0
- Battery Storage 5.0
- Craftsmanship & Durability 6.0
- Ease of Use 5.0
- Versatility 8.0
REASONS TO BUY
- Very robust and durable build
- Higher peak amp rating
- 120 PSI air compressor with digital controls
- Charges via 12V DC or 120 AC
- Dual USB ports and 12V 10A outlet
REASONS TO AVOID
- Heavy and relatively expensive
- Limited storage for cables and accessories
- Not designed for multiple jump starts on one charge
- Lower watt-hour battery
For an all-in-one power solution for home or shop environments, the Dewalt DXAEJ14 offers a range of functionalities beyond just jump-starting. “Need to inflate tires, test your alternator, or charge your phone?” our lead tester inquired, appreciating the Dewalt’s utility beyond jump-starting. The integrated 120 PSI air compressor is a standout feature, with an LCD screen for setting the desired PSI for precise tire inflation. In addition to providing 1400 peak amps for jump-starting, it also powers accessories via dual USB ports and a 12V DC charging port. While not as light and portable as lithium-ion models, this unit can effectively jump-start larger engines and still have enough power for other tasks like device charging or tire inflation.
SPECIFICATIONS
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Peak Amps | 1,400 |
| Starting Amps | 700 |
| Watt Hours | 21 |
| Jump Starts (Est.) | 2 |
| Phone Charges (Est.) | 4 |
One consideration is that, unlike lithium-ion models that offer multiple jump starts per charge, the Dewalt DXAEJ14, being a sealed lead-acid (SLA) type, ideally needs recharging after each jump. Regular charging is crucial for SLA batteries like this one, with Dewalt recommending monthly top-ups. However, the Dewalt DXAEJ14 surpasses competitors in battery capacity among SLA jump starters, boasting a 21 amp-hour battery. “This power capacity, combined with its versatility and robust build (though it weighs 35 pounds), makes it ideal for home and shop use,” noted one tester. For a more budget-conscious SLA portable car battery charger with similar features like a USB port and 120 psi air compressor, the Stanley J5C09 1000 Peak Amp is a worthwhile alternative.
The Dewalt DXAEJ14 is our top pick for a sealed lead-acid portable car battery charger that includes a built-in air compressor, offering a versatile power solution.
Credit: Rob Woodworth
Product Comparison
Portable car battery chargers are available in various sizes, from compact models like the NOCO Boost HD to larger, more powerful units, catering to diverse user needs and storage preferences.
Credit: Eric Bissell
Our Testing Methodology for Portable Car Battery Chargers
Our evaluation process for portable car battery chargers included units ranging from 1000 to 2000 peak amps, representing a broad spectrum of available power outputs. We subjected each model to rigorous testing to determine their performance limits. This involved jump-starting various vehicles, from a 650cc motorcycle to a 6.7L V8 diesel truck and a 454 horsepower inboard boat engine. We meticulously monitored voltage and current during jump starts and, when feasible, bypassed the vehicle battery entirely to assess the number of cold starts each unit could achieve on its own power. To provide a comprehensive assessment, we tested both lithium-ion and sealed lead-acid battery types, applying the same testing metrics and scoring system to each.
Our portable car battery charger testing was based on five key performance metrics:
- Power Performance (30% of overall score): Evaluates the jump-starting power and capability.
- Battery Storage (30% of overall score): Assesses battery capacity and longevity.
- Craftsmanship & Durability (20% of overall score): Examines build quality and resilience.
- Ease of Use (15% of overall score): Considers user-friendliness and intuitive operation.
- Versatility (15% of overall score): Evaluates additional features and functionalities beyond jump-starting.
Many portable car battery chargers also include integrated flashlights, a valuable feature for nighttime emergencies.
The HULKMAN Alpha85S portable car battery charger demonstrates its robust power output by successfully powering a 12-volt compressor, showcasing its versatility.
Portable car battery chargers are significantly easier to use than traditional jumper cables, offering a safer and more convenient jump-starting experience.
Why Trust Keyfobx.com for Car Battery Charger Reviews
Our portable car battery charger reviews are conducted with expertise and hands-on testing. Ross Patton, a veteran team member and our primary tester, brings extensive experience in off-roading, overlanding, and battery-powered technologies. His background in Environmental Science from the University of Nevada, Reno, coupled with his passion for tech and outdoor adventures, makes him ideally suited to lead our reviews.
Rob Woodworth, another key tester, has a deep understanding of 12V systems and battery technology, honed through years of operating and maintaining various engine types. As a Coast Guard Certified Captain, he regularly works with deep-cycle marine batteries and heavy equipment. His practical knowledge is further enhanced by his experience with off-grid solar power systems, demanding rigorous battery maintenance. Together, Ross and Rob’s combined expertise ensures our portable car battery charger reviews are thorough, reliable, and insightful.
Our testers conducted comprehensive examinations of each portable car battery charger, utilizing voltmeters and load testers to measure performance and ensure accuracy in our reviews.
Our testing process goes beyond simple usage; we rigorously test each portable car battery charger with professional-grade electronic voltage meters and load testers, ensuring accurate and reliable performance assessments.
We conduct detailed comparisons of components, including adapter clips and cables, for each portable car battery charger to provide a comprehensive and in-depth review.
Choosing the Right Portable Car Battery Charger
A high-quality portable car battery charger is an invaluable tool when faced with a dead battery. While many models appear similar at first glance, our detailed testing revealed significant differences that distinguish excellent models from mediocre ones. Before making a purchase, consider these key factors to guide your decision.
Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) vs. Lithium-Ion (LI) Batteries
Both SLA and lithium-ion batteries offer advantages for portable car battery chargers, and the best type for you depends on your specific needs. The most apparent difference is weight and size; SLA batteries are considerably heavier and bulkier than LI batteries. LI batteries generally provide more power for their weight and store more watt-hours of energy. SLA batteries are cost-effective, durable, and dependable, but require proper maintenance. They typically need recharging after each jump start, while LI jump starters can often provide multiple jump starts on a single charge. SLA batteries also tend to discharge over time, whereas LI batteries hold their charge longer.
Visually, LI batteries resemble slim, modern battery packs, while SLA options look like larger, traditional charging packs. Our specification charts highlight the weight difference – LI packs are usually under five pounds, while SLA packs often exceed 15 pounds.
Jump-Starting Frequency
Consider how often you anticipate needing to use your portable car battery charger, as models vary in their power capacity. Manufacturers may list milliamp-hours (mAh) or amp-hours (Ah), but watt-hours are a more useful metric as they account for voltage. Our tests focused on watt-hours to accurately reflect battery storage potential across different voltages. If frequent jump-starting is expected, choose a model with higher watt-hour capacity to maximize the number of jump starts before needing to recharge. Watt-hour specifications are included in our comparison charts, and we further evaluate battery capacity in our Battery Storage metric.
Engine Size and Battery Type
While most drivers will use a portable car battery charger for standard passenger vehicles, some may need to jump-start larger engines. Jump starter capability is often indicated by ‘peak amps,’ representing the maximum current output. This rating is a good starting point for comparing power, but actual performance can vary under load. Our Power Performance metric ranks models based on their real-world output, identifying the best options for jump-starting larger engines.
Storage and Durability Needs
Size and weight are key differentiators between SLA and LI portable car battery chargers, with LI models being lighter and more compact. However, consider where and how you’ll store your jump starter. For glove compartments, compact LI models are ideal. For work trucks or shops, rugged SLA models might be more suitable. Our Craftsmanship & Durability metric helps identify models built to withstand tougher conditions, considering factors like waterproof ratings and cable robustness.
The NOCO Boost HD GB70 portable car battery charger prioritizes durability and reliability over extra features, making it a robust choice for demanding users.
Credit: Eric Bissell
Portable Car Battery Charger Performance Analysis and Test Results
We conducted head-to-head testing of popular portable car battery chargers, including both sealed lead-acid and lithium-ion models, to thoroughly assess their performance. Our tests evaluated jump-starting capabilities, as well as additional features like USB power ports, AC adapters, and air compressors.
Best Value Recommendation
The ideal portable car battery charger for you depends on your vehicle type and lifestyle. For compact cars or SUVs and users primarily needing emergency jump-starting and phone charging, the NOCO Boost Plus GB40 is an excellent, cost-effective choice. For users needing frequent use, 12-volt power capabilities, and potentially an air compressor, the Dewalt DXAEJ14 is highly recommended. While lacking a compressor, the HULKMAN Alpha85S is a worthwhile investment for its exceptional performance and features, including the ability to power a 12-volt compressor. For an affordable yet effective portable car battery charger, the GOOLOO GP2000 is a top contender.
The GOOLOO GP2000 portable car battery charger stands out with its exceptional battery performance, making it highly convenient for charging electronic devices.
Credit: Rob Woodworth
Power Performance Evaluation
Our Power Performance metric assessed each portable car battery charger’s energy output during jump-starting. While peak amp ratings are commonly used to compare models, real-world performance can vary. We tested each unit under different jump-starting scenarios to gauge their actual power delivery.
The HULKMAN Alpha85S topped this category, exhibiting the highest amperage output and significantly higher voltage output in Force Start mode compared to competitors. For jump-starting larger engines quickly, it’s the clear leader.
The HULKMAN Alpha85S portable car battery charger demonstrated unmatched voltage output during our power performance testing, highlighting its superior jump-starting capability.
Credit: Ross Patton
The NOCO Boost HD GB70 and NOCO Boost Plus GB40 were top-performing lithium-ion units in power performance. With peak amp ratings exceeding 1000A, they efficiently jump-started engines up to seven liters. Lithium-ion jump starters excel at delivering quick bursts of power, ideal for jump-starting.
The NOCO Boost HD GB70 portable car battery charger features clamps large enough to securely connect to larger battery terminals, ensuring effective jump-starting performance.
Credit: Eric Bissell
In contrast, the Dewalt DXAEJ14, Clore Automotive JNC660, and Stanley J5C09 (SLA models) deliver a more constant current. While they can provide around three jump starts on a full charge, manufacturers recommend recharging after each use due to the faster discharge rate of SLA batteries compared to lithium-ion. However, they effectively jump-start larger diesel and deep-cycle marine batteries. Among SLA models, the Stanley J5C09 showed slightly lower current output under load in our tests.
During testing, the NOCO Boost Plus GB40 portable car battery charger maintained a voltage output close to 12 volts, demonstrating its reliable jump-starting capability.
Credit: Ross Patton
Battery Storage Capacity
We evaluated battery storage by considering watt-hour ratings, measuring wattage during charging and jump-starting, and timing how long each unit could power a 12-volt portable compressor.
The HULKMAN Alpha85S excelled in battery storage, outlasting all competitors. For users prioritizing battery longevity, it’s the top choice. The GOOLOO 2000 also demonstrated commendable battery storage with an impressive 80Wh capacity.
In our battery longevity tests, the Alpha85S portable car battery charger significantly outperformed the competition, showcasing its superior battery storage capacity.
Credit: Ross Patton
The NOCO Boost HD GB70 provided a comparable number of jump starts to competitors but has a slightly lower 54Wh rating compared to some other lithium-ion models.
We tested the charging versatility by partially charging the NOCO booster using the USB power ports available on the Dewalt DXAEJ14 portable car battery charger, demonstrating interoperability.
Credit: Rob Woodworth
For users needing only one or two emergency jump starts per charge, the NOCO Boost Plus GB40 is sufficient. While it lacks the extended battery life of larger models and the amperage for very large diesel trucks, it meets the needs of most car owners.
The GB40 portable car battery charger is ideally suited for owners of consumer vehicles who want the security of having a jump starter for themselves or to assist others in emergencies.
Credit: Ross Patton
SLA portable car battery chargers like the Clore Automotive JNC660 have lower watt-hour ratings than LI models. SLA batteries are designed for high current bursts over short periods rather than sustained power draw. However, they can power 12V accessories for a few hours, and models like the Dewalt DXAEJ14 and Stanley J5C09 include USB ports for charging mobile devices.
While not the most powerful jump starter, the GOOLOO 2000 portable car battery charger excels in battery performance, making it highly useful for charging electronic devices on the go.
Credit: Rob Woodworth
Craftsmanship and Durability Assessment
In this evaluation, we closely examined the build quality of each portable car battery charger. We considered waterproof ratings, switch and control durability, cable length, and the overall robustness of each unit.
For a heavy-duty, rugged lithium-ion portable car battery charger, the NOCO Boost HD GB70 stands out. Its permanently attached cables ensure immediate readiness, and its construction features hard-wearing materials, heavy-gauge cables, and secure port covers, reflecting a focus on durability.
Lead-acid portable car battery chargers are notably larger and bulkier than their lithium-ion counterparts, impacting portability and storage convenience.
Credit: Eric Bissell
The NOCO Boost HD GB70 excels in build quality, using robust materials, heavy-duty cables, and well-protected ports, emphasizing long-term durability and reliability.
The HULKMAN Alpha85S includes a thoughtful emergency red flashlight setting, a potentially crucial feature in emergency situations.
The Alpha85S portable car battery charger features a red flashing light mode for emergency situations, enhancing safety and visibility in roadside emergencies.
Credit: Ross Patton
The Clore Automotive JNC660, while not the most feature-rich, was arguably the most durable SLA model, featuring heavy-duty cables and a simple, robust design. The Dewalt and Stanley models had more components that could potentially fail or be lost. The GOOLOO 2000 is reasonably well-built but uses thinner plastic and cables and lacks the refined feel of more premium units.
Ease of Use Assessment
Our Ease of Use rating considered features that enhance the user experience and deducted points for confusing or inefficient interfaces.
The HULKMAN Alpha85S scored highest in this metric. Its straightforward operation involves connecting the clamps, turning it on, and waiting for a clear “READY” indicator before jump-starting.
The HULKMAN Alpha85S portable car battery charger features a clear digital display showing the exact battery level and a “ready” indicator for user-friendly operation.
Credit: Ross Patton
The Clore Automotive JNC660 was also exceptionally simple to use – just connect and jump-start. The NOCO Boost HD GB70 is straightforward but includes safety features that may require a brief learning curve.
Carrying cases included with lithium-ion portable car battery chargers significantly enhance portability and ease of storage for future use, keeping components organized.
Credit: Rob Woodworth
The Dewalt DXAEJ14 was less intuitive, requiring reference to the manual for proper operation, and it lacked an auto-off feature, potentially leading to battery drain if not manually powered down.
Versatility Evaluation
Our Versatility metric assessed features beyond jump-starting. Models with more functionalities for general use scored higher.
The Dewalt DXAEJ14 is highly versatile, featuring a 120 PSI air compressor, pressure gauge, multiple power ports, work lights, and an alternator tester, making it ideal for home or job site use.
Having a built-in air compressor in the Dewalt DXAEJ14 portable car battery charger is exceptionally useful for inflating tires and other inflatables, adding to its versatility.
Credit: Rob Woodworth
For most users, models like the HULKMAN Alpha85S or NOCO Boost Plus GB40 offer ample versatility, charging various devices and providing multiple recharging options. The Clore Automotive JNC660 was the least versatile, lacking USB ports and only rechargeable via an extension cord.
The market offers a wide variety of portable car battery chargers; our reviews help identify the best options for your specific needs and intended use, ensuring optimal performance.
Credit: Eric Bissell
Conclusion: Choosing the Best Portable Car Battery Charger for Your Needs
We hope this detailed review helps you navigate the market and find the perfect portable car battery charger. In a crowded market, we aim to provide clarity and help you select a model that meets your specific requirements. A dead battery can happen to anyone, and our testing is designed to ensure you can confidently choose a portable car battery charger that will keep you powered up, whether on the road, in the wilderness, or anywhere your adventures take you.
In many situations, relying on another vehicle for a jump start isn’t feasible, making a portable car battery charger an indispensable tool.
Having a portable car battery charger readily available can be a lifesaver, providing a reliable solution for unexpected dead battery situations, especially in remote locations.
A portable car battery charger is an essential tool, particularly for those who frequently travel to remote areas or need a reliable backup for their vehicle’s battery.
