A dead car battery is more than just an inconvenience; it can derail your day, leave you stranded, and even pose safety risks. In today’s fast-paced world, relying on roadside assistance or waiting for a good Samaritan isn’t always practical. This is where the Best Rated Portable Jump Starter becomes an indispensable tool for any vehicle owner. These devices are compact, powerful, and designed to quickly revive your battery, getting you back on the road without delay.
In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the world of portable jump starters, rigorously testing and evaluating a range of models to bring you the best rated portable jump starters available on the market. Whether you prioritize raw power, compact design, exceptional value, or versatile features, our in-depth analysis will help you pinpoint the ideal jump starter to meet your specific needs and ensure you’re never left powerless again.
Top Pick: HULKMAN Alpha85S – Best Rated Overall Performance
Overall Score: 77
Pros:
- Unmatched Power Performance: 9.0
- Solid Battery Storage: 7.0
- High-Quality Craftsmanship & Durability: 7.0
- User-Friendly Design: 8.0
- Decent Versatility: 6.0
- Clear Digital Battery Display
- Impressive Power Output and Voltage
- Long-lasting Battery Life
- Includes Multiple Accessories and Adapters
Cons:
- No Carrying Case Included
- Larger Size Compared to Some Competitors
- Higher Price Point
For those who demand top-tier performance and a comprehensive feature set in a sleek package, the HULKMAN Alpha85S stands out as the best rated portable jump starter overall. Our rigorous testing revealed its superior power capabilities, with our lead tester noting, “During our power assessment, this model produced a higher voltage than any other jump starter in our review.” The Alpha85S not only delivered exceptional power but also impressed with its battery longevity and rapid charging times.
The design is a standout feature, boasting a large digital display that precisely shows the battery percentage, eliminating the guesswork associated with traditional LED meters. Its integrated flashlight is bright and practical, and the form factor is convenient for storage under a seat or in a door panel. The Alpha85S is versatile in its charging options, capable of being charged via USB or a 12-volt car outlet, and it can also charge USB and 12-volt devices.
Key Specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Peak Amps | 2000 |
| Starting Amps | 500 |
| Watt Hours | 74 |
| Jump Starts (approx.) | 60 |
| Cell Phone Charges (approx.) | 20 |
While the HULKMAN Alpha85S offers a premium experience, it’s worth noting the absence of a dedicated carrying case for its accessories, and its size is slightly larger than other lithium-ion jump starters. It also comes with a higher price tag. However, for unparalleled performance and cutting-edge technology, the Alpha85S remains the ultimate choice as the best rated portable jump starter in its class. If budget is a primary concern, the NOCO Boost Plus GB40 offers a more affordable and compact alternative, albeit with slightly less power.
The HULKMAN Alpha85S offers our favorite kit in the lithium-ion-powered jump starter division, making it a best rated portable jump starter.
Credit: Ross Patton
Best Value Pick: GOOLOO GP2000 – Top Rated for Battery Capacity
Overall Score: 63
Pros:
- Excellent Battery Storage: 7.0
- High Peak Amps Rating (2000)
- 73 Watt-Hour Battery for Extended Use
- Versatile Charging Options (USB & 12V DC)
Cons:
- Moderate Power Performance: 6.0 – May Struggle with Larger Engines
- Basic Craftsmanship & Durability: 6.0
- Average Ease of Use: 6.0
- Limited Versatility: 5.0
- Bulky Carrying Case
- 12V AC Car Adapter Sold Separately
If maximizing battery capacity and charging versatility are your priorities, and jump-starting is a less frequent need, the GOOLOO GP2000 is a best rated portable jump starter for its price. Its high-capacity lithium-ion battery and multiple charging ports make it an impressive portable power bank. While it boasts a 2000 peak amp rating, our tests showed it was more effective at charging electronics than boosting larger engines. One tester noted, “It wasn’t as powerful for boosting larger batteries on bigger trucks, but had plenty of juice to handle eight consecutive boosts on a 2.5-liter engine before needing another charge.”
The GP2000 truly shines as a power bank, capable of fully charging an iPhone up to 15 times on a single charge using its 5V USB port. The inclusion of a USB-C port further enhances its charging flexibility.
Key Specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Peak Amps | 1200 |
| Starting Amps | 500 |
| Watt Hours | 37 |
| Jump Starts (approx.) | 8 |
| Cell Phone Charges (approx.) | 3 |
While the GOOLOO GP2000 is a best rated portable jump starter in terms of value and battery capacity, its performance as a booster pack is somewhat underwhelming for larger engines. However, its substantial 37Wh battery ensures it holds a charge for extended periods, making it an excellent companion for powering devices on the go. For users prioritizing battery life and value, the GOOLOO GP2000 offers an unbeatable price-to-performance ratio.
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, showcasing its value as a best rated portable jump starter.
Credit: Rob Woodworth
Best Compact Choice: NOCO Boost Plus GB40 – Top Rated for Portability
Overall Score: 67
Pros:
- Excellent Craftsmanship & Durability: 8.0
- Compact and Lightweight Design
- Boost Mode for Immediate Starts
- IP65 Waterproof Rating
Cons:
- Moderate Power Performance: 7.0 – Not Ideal for Larger Engines
- Average Battery Storage: 6.0
- Average Ease of Use: 6.0
- Limited Versatility: 5.0
- No Wall Plug Included
- Shorter Battery Life
For drivers with limited vehicle space or those who prefer a jump starter that’s easily stowed away, the NOCO Boost Plus GB40 is the best rated portable jump starter for its compact size. Despite its small footprint, the GB40 delivers impressive power, capable of starting a wide range of vehicles. As one team member remarked, “This powerful little device is tiny compared to much of the competition, yet it has proven to be able to start every vehicle we’ve tested it with.”
A standout feature is the ‘Boost Mode,’ which provides a rapid surge of power to jump-start your vehicle almost instantly. The GB40 also boasts an IP65 waterproof rating, offering added durability against rain and dust.
Key Specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Peak Amps | 1000 |
| Starting Amps | 500 |
| Watt Hours | 24 |
| Jump Starts (approx.) | 10 |
| Cell Phone Charges (approx.) | 4 |
While the NOCO Boost Plus GB40 excels in portability and convenience, its versatility is limited to jump-starting and USB device charging. It also lacks a wall plug for charging and has a shorter battery life compared to larger models. With a 1000 peak amp rating, it’s not the best choice for larger engines. However, its compact size and reliable performance make the NOCO GB40 a highly recommended best rated portable jump starter for everyday vehicles where space is a premium. For those seeking even more power, the Hulkman Alpha85S remains a powerful alternative.
If you want the peace of mind of having a reliable jump starter in your vehicle but don’t want to know that it’s there — the GB40 is the way to go, making it a best rated portable jump starter for compact needs.
Credit: Ross Patton
Best for Home or Shop: Dewalt DXAEJ14 – Top Rated Versatility
Overall Score: 60
Pros:
- High Versatility: 8.0 – Air Compressor, Power Outlets, Alternator Tester
- Strong Power Performance: 7.0
- Rugged and Durable Construction
- Higher Peak Amps
- Integrated 120 PSI Air Compressor with Digital Settings
- Multiple Charging Options (12V DC & 120 AC)
- Dual USB Ports and 12V 10A Outlet
Cons:
- Average Craftsmanship & Durability: 6.0
- Moderate Power Performance: 7.0
- Low Battery Storage: 5.0 – Limited Consecutive Boosts
- Average Ease of Use: 5.0
- Heavy and Less Portable
- Limited Cable and Accessory Storage
- Lower Watt-Hour Battery
For users needing a comprehensive power solution for home or shop use, the Dewalt DXAEJ14 is the best rated portable jump starter for versatility. This robust unit goes beyond jump-starting, offering a range of features including a 120 PSI air compressor, multiple power outlets, and even an alternator tester. As our lead tester pointed out, “Need to air up your tires? Check your alternator? Charge your cell phone?” The Dewalt handles these tasks and more.
The integrated air compressor with a digital LCD screen allows for precise tire inflation. In addition to delivering 1400 peak amps, it can power accessories via USB and 12V DC ports. While not as portable as lithium-ion models, the DXAEJ14 is capable of jump-starting larger engines and providing power for various tools and devices.
Key Specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Peak Amps | 1,400 |
| Starting Amps | 700 |
| Watt Hours | 21 |
| Jump Starts (approx.) | 2 |
| Cell Phone Charges (approx.) | 4 |
One drawback of the Dewalt DXAEJ14 is its sealed lead-acid (SLA) battery, which requires recharging after each jump and regular monthly top-ups. It’s also heavier and bulkier than lithium-ion options. However, its 21 amp-hour battery and extensive features make it a favorite for home and shop environments. For a more budget-friendly SLA option with similar features, the Stanley J5C09 1000 Peak Amp is a viable alternative.
The Dewalt DXAEJ14 is our favorite choice for a sealed-acid battery model that offers a compressor, making it a best rated portable jump starter for versatile applications.
Credit: Rob Woodworth
Product Comparison: Best Rated Portable Jump Starters
Not all jump starters are heavy and bulky. Many of the top models, like the NOCO Boost HD, are surprisingly compact, showcasing the range in best rated portable jump starters.
Credit: Eric Bissell
How We Test and Rate Portable Jump Starters
Our testing process for identifying the best rated portable jump starters is comprehensive and rigorous. We evaluate units ranging from 1000 to 2000 peak amps, pushing each model to its performance limits. Our tests involve jump-starting various battery sizes across a diverse fleet of vehicles, from motorcycles to diesel trucks and boat engines. We meticulously monitor voltage and current during boosts and assess the number of cold starts achievable on a single charge. We test both lithium-ion and sealed lead-acid battery types, applying the same metrics and scoring system to each.
Our evaluation criteria are divided into five key metrics:
- Power Performance (30%): Assesses the jump starter’s ability to deliver current and voltage for effective engine starting.
- Battery Storage (30%): Evaluates battery capacity, longevity, and the number of jump starts and device charges possible.
- Craftsmanship & Durability (20%): Examines build quality, material robustness, weather resistance, and overall durability.
- Ease of Use (15%): Rates the intuitiveness of controls, display clarity, setup simplicity, and user-friendliness.
- Versatility (15%): Evaluates additional features such as USB ports, air compressors, flashlights, and overall functionality beyond jump-starting.
Many models include integrated flashlights, a highly useful feature in emergency situations.
The HULKMAN Alpha85S is strong enough to power a 12 volt compressor, demonstrating the power and versatility expected from a best rated portable jump starter.
Jump starters offer significantly greater ease of use compared to traditional jumper cables.
Why Trust Our Recommendations?
GearLab’s jump starter reviews are backed by expert testing and real-world experience. Our primary tester, Ross Patton, is a seasoned off-roader and overlander with a strong background in battery-powered technology and environmental science. Rob Woodworth, a Coast Guard Certified Captain, brings extensive knowledge of 12V systems and battery maintenance, particularly in marine and off-grid solar applications. Their combined expertise ensures our reviews are thorough, in-depth, and practical.
Our testers were thorough in their examination of the contenders; using voltmeters and load testers, they even went as far as to measure the current of the various USB charging ports of each unit, ensuring accurate ratings for best portable jump starters.
Our testers go beyond basic usage, subjecting each jump starter to a battery of exhaustive tests using professional-grade voltage meters and load testers.
We compare the adaptor clips for each contender, in addition to many other components, during this in-depth review process to determine the best rated portable jump starters.
Choosing the Right Best Rated Portable Jump Starter
Selecting the ideal jump starter involves considering several key factors to match your specific needs and vehicle type.
Lithium-Ion vs. Sealed Lead-Acid Batteries: Choosing the Best Rated Type
The choice between lithium-ion (LI) and sealed lead-acid (SLA) batteries is fundamental. LI batteries are significantly lighter and more compact, offering greater power-to-weight ratio and energy density. They provide multiple consecutive jumps without recharging and retain their charge longer. SLA batteries, while heavier and bulkier, are generally more affordable, reliable, and long-lasting if properly maintained. They require recharging after each jump and tend to discharge over time. LI jump starters are modern and sleek, while SLA options resemble traditional bulky charging packs. Weight is a key differentiator, with LI packs typically under five pounds and SLA packs exceeding 15 pounds. For the best rated portable jump starter, consider your priority: portability and multiple jumps (LI) or budget and robust build (SLA).
Jump-Starting Frequency and Battery Storage Needs for Best Rated Models
Consider how often you anticipate needing a jump starter. While manufacturers may list milliamp-hours (mAh) or amp-hours (Ah), watt-hours (Wh) provide a more accurate measure of battery storage potential across different voltages. Models with higher watt-hours offer more jump starts per charge. If frequent jump-starting is expected, prioritize models with higher battery storage capacity to ensure you have a best rated portable jump starter that meets your demands.
Engine Size and Power Performance for Best Rated Jump Starters
Engine size is a critical factor. Jump starter capability is often rated by ‘peak amps.’ Higher peak amp ratings indicate greater potential output power. However, actual performance under load can vary. Our Power Performance metric evaluates each model’s real-world jump-starting capability for different engine sizes. For larger engines, choose models with higher power performance ratings to ensure your best rated portable jump starter can handle the task.
Storage and Durability Considerations for Best Rated Options
Size and weight are crucial, especially for storage. LI jump starters are more compact and suitable for glove compartments. SLA models are bulkier and may be better suited for trucks or shops. Consider the intended storage environment and usage conditions. Our Craftsmanship & Durability metric assesses build quality, water resistance, and overall robustness. For demanding environments, prioritize models with higher durability ratings to ensure your best rated portable jump starter can withstand rough handling.
The NOCO Boost HD GB70 trades in superfluous features for pure durability and reliability, making it a best rated portable jump starter for rugged use.
Credit: Eric Bissell
Analysis of Value and Top Performers in Best Rated Portable Jump Starters
The optimal jump starter investment depends on your vehicle and lifestyle. For compact vehicles and occasional emergency jump starts or phone charging, the NOCO Boost Plus GB40 offers excellent value as a best rated portable jump starter for basic needs. For frequent use and added features like 12-volt power and a compressor, the Dewalt DXAEJ14 is a top choice. The HULKMAN Alpha85S, despite lacking a compressor, justifies its price with exceptional performance and features, including 12-volt compressor powering capability, making it a best rated portable jump starter for overall performance. For budget-conscious buyers seeking reliable jump-starting, the GOOLOO GP2000 is an excellent and best rated portable jump starter for its affordability.
The GOOLOO GP2000 has exceptional battery performance that is very handy for charging electronics, highlighting its value as a best rated portable jump starter.
Credit: Rob Woodworth
Power Performance Deep Dive: Best Rated for Engine Starting
In our power performance assessment, the HULKMAN Alpha85S emerged as the leader, exhibiting the highest amperage and significantly higher voltage output in Force Start mode compared to competitors. For immediate starting of larger engines, it’s the top best rated portable jump starter.
The HULKMAN Alpha85S voltage output was simply unmatched during our assessment, solidifying its position as a best rated portable jump starter for power.
Credit: Ross Patton
The NOCO Boost HD GB70 and NOCO Boost Plus GB40 are top-performing lithium-ion units, rated over 1000A peak amps, suitable for engines up to seven liters. They excel at delivering quick energy pulses.
The NOCO Boost HD GB70 clamps were large enough to comfortably wrap bigger battery terminals, ensuring reliable power delivery from a best rated portable jump starter.
Credit: Eric Bissell
SLA models like the Dewalt DXAEJ14, Clore Automotive JNC660, and Stanley J5C09 provide constant current, capable of reviving larger diesel and marine batteries, although requiring recharge after each use due to faster discharge rates compared to lithium-ion. Among SLA types, the Stanley J5C09 showed slightly lower current output in our tests.
The NOCO Boost Plus GB40 was just about on the 12-volt mark during our assessment, demonstrating consistent power from a best rated portable jump starter.
Credit: Ross Patton
Battery Storage Performance: Longest Lasting Best Rated Portable Jump Starters
For battery storage, the HULKMAN Alpha85S excelled, outlasting all competitors. The GOOLOO 2000 also demonstrated commendable battery storage with an impressive 80Wh capacity, making them both best rated portable jump starters for battery life.
During out battery longevity test, the Alpha85S easily outperformed the competition, establishing itself as a best rated portable jump starter for battery life.
Credit: Ross Patton
The NOCO Boost HD GB70 provided comparable jump starts but with a slightly lower 54Wh rating.
We were able to partially charge the NOCO booster via the USB power ports found on the Dewalt DXAEJ14, illustrating the charging versatility across best rated portable jump starters.
Credit: Rob Woodworth
For users needing only one or two emergency jumps, the NOCO Boost Plus GB40 is sufficient, though it lacks the extended battery life of larger models.
The GB40 is the ideal model for those with consumer vehicles that want to know they have a jump for themselves or those around them if need be, making it a best rated portable jump starter for typical car owners.
Credit: Ross Patton
SLA jump starters like the Clore Automotive JNC660 have lower watt-hour ratings, designed for high currents over short periods. The Dewalt DXAEJ14 and Stanley J5C09 offer USB ports for limited mobile device charging.
While it isn’t the most robust jumper in this lineup, the GOOLOO 2000 has exceptional battery performance that is very handy for charging electronics, showcasing its versatility as a best rated portable jump starter.
Credit: Rob Woodworth
Craftsmanship and Durability Leaders in Best Rated Portable Jump Starters
For robust durability, the NOCO Boost HD GB70 stands out with its heavy-duty build, permanently attached cables, and secure port covers, making it a best rated portable jump starter for ruggedness.
The lead-acid battery packs are much bigger than the lithium-ion counterparts, indicating different durability and portability profiles for best rated portable jump starters.
Credit: Eric Bissell
The HULKMAN Alpha85S includes an emergency red flashlight, a valuable safety feature.
The Alpha852S has a red flashing light setting to be used in case of an emergency or an emergency party, highlighting safety features in a best rated portable jump starter.
Credit: Ross Patton
The Clore Automotive JNC660 is exceptionally durable with welder-grade cables and a simple, robust design. The Dewalt DXAEJ14 and Stanley J5C09 have more components that could potentially fail. The GOOLOO 2000 is reasonably built but uses thinner plastic and cables.
Ease of Use Leaders in Best Rated Portable Jump Starters
The HULKMAN Alpha85S is the most user-friendly, featuring a clear “READY” indicator.
HULKMAN Alpha85S ease of use: Best rated portable jump starter for user-friendliness
The HULKMAN Alpha85S displays an exact battery level and a “ready” indicator letting you know when it’s time to start the car, emphasizing ease of use in a best rated portable jump starter.
Credit: Ross Patton
The Clore Automotive JNC660 is straightforward and simple to use. The NOCO Boost HD GB70 is also easy to apply but has safety features that may require a slight learning curve.
Carrying cases made the LI jumper types much easier to stow away for future use, contributing to the overall ease of use and convenience of best rated portable jump starters.
Credit: Rob Woodworth
The Dewalt DXAEJ14 is less intuitive and lacks an auto-off feature.
Versatility Champions in Best Rated Portable Jump Starters
The Dewalt DXAEJ14 is the most versatile, featuring an air compressor, multiple power ports, and an alternator tester, making it a best rated portable jump starter for multi-functionality.
Having a built-in air compressor is very handy if you have lots of wheeled implements of transportation, emphasizing the versatility of a best rated portable jump starter like Dewalt DXAEJ14.
Credit: Rob Woodworth
The HULKMAN Alpha85S and NOCO Boost Plus GB40 offer good versatility with device charging and multiple recharge options. The Clore Automotive JNC660 is the least versatile, focused solely on jump-starting.
While there are many options on the market, we take the time to find out which offers the best overall performance. What type of jump starter do you need for your home? Consider versatility when choosing a best rated portable jump starter.
Credit: Eric Bissell
Conclusion: Choosing Your Best Rated Portable Jump Starter
Our comprehensive review aims to simplify your search for the perfect jump starter. In a crowded market, we strive to help you select a model that best suits your needs. A dead battery can happen to anyone, and we hope our testing empowers you to choose a best rated portable jump starter that ensures you’re never stranded without power, whether on the roadside or off the beaten path.
Having a jump starter on hand can truly save the day, making a best rated portable jump starter an essential tool for vehicle owners.
A jump starter is invaluable, especially in remote locations where assistance is unavailable, making a best rated portable jump starter a smart investment for peace of mind.
