Starting your car with a dead battery can be a frustrating experience, often leaving you stranded and behind schedule. Fortunately, portable car jump starters offer a convenient and reliable solution, eliminating the need for jumper cables and another vehicle. As experts at cardiagnosticnearme.com, we’ve rigorously tested a range of jump starters to bring you our recommendations for the Top Rated Car Jump Starters available today. Whether you prioritize power, portability, or versatility, our comprehensive guide will help you choose the best jump starter to keep you on the road.
Best Overall: HULKMAN Alpha85S
HULKMAN Alpha85S jump starter
Overall Score: 77/100
The HULKMAN Alpha85S stands out as our top pick for the top rated car jump starter due to its exceptional power performance and user-friendly design. In our tests, the Alpha85S consistently delivered higher voltage output compared to other models, ensuring a reliable jump start even for larger engines. Our lead tester noted, “During our power assessment, this model produced a higher voltage than any other jump starter in our review.” Beyond its impressive power, the Alpha85S boasts a long-lasting battery and rapid charging capabilities, making it a dependable tool in emergency situations.
Pros:
- Superior Power Performance: Consistently high voltage output for reliable jump starts.
- Extended Battery Life: Outlasts competitors in battery longevity tests.
- Fast Charging: Quickly replenishes battery power.
- Clear Digital Display: Provides precise battery percentage for easy monitoring.
- Comprehensive Accessory Kit: Includes various adapters and charging options.
Cons:
- No Carrying Case: Accessories lack organized storage.
- Larger Size: Bulkier than some lithium-ion competitors.
- Higher Price Point: Premium features come at a cost.
The HULKMAN Alpha85S excels in design and functionality. Its large digital display provides a clear and accurate battery percentage, removing the guesswork associated with traditional LED indicators. The integrated flashlight is a useful addition, and the unit’s shape allows for convenient storage under a car seat or in a door panel. The Alpha85S offers versatile charging options, compatible with both USB and 12-volt car outlets, and can also charge various USB and 12-volt devices.
Key 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 lack a dedicated carrying case, which is surprising given its price. It’s also slightly larger than other lithium-ion jump starters, although still significantly smaller than traditional lead-acid models. While the price is higher, the Alpha85S delivers unmatched performance and cutting-edge technology, making it a worthwhile investment for those seeking the top rated car jump starter. For a more budget-friendly and compact alternative, consider the NOCO Boost Plus GB40, which offers excellent performance in a smaller package, although with slightly less power output.
HULKMAN Alpha85S kitThe HULKMAN Alpha85S offers our favorite kit in the lithium-ion-powered jump starter division.
Best Value: GOOLOO GP2000
GOOLOO GP2000 jump starter
Overall Score: 63/100
If you’re looking for a top rated car jump starter that provides excellent value for money, the GOOLOO GP2000 is an impressive option. This jump starter balances a high-capacity battery with a reasonable price, making it ideal for users who prioritize battery storage and charging capabilities. The GP2000 boasts a 37Wh lithium-ion battery and a 2000 peak amp rating. One of our testers commented, “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.“
Pros:
- High Battery Capacity: 73 watt-hour battery for extended charge and multiple jump starts.
- Strong Peak Amp Rating: 2000 peak amps for reliable starting power.
- Versatile Charging Ports: Includes USB and 12V DC outlets for powering accessories.
- Affordable Price: Excellent performance at a budget-friendly cost.
Cons:
- Less Powerful for Large Engines: May struggle with larger truck batteries.
- Bulky Carrying Case: Case design is somewhat clunky.
- 12V AC Adapter Sold Separately: Car adapter not included in the standard package.
The GOOLOO GP2000 truly shines as a portable power bank. In our testing, it could fully charge an iPhone up to 15 times on a single charge using the 5V USB port. The inclusion of a USB-C port further enhances its charging versatility. While its jump-starting performance on larger engines may be less robust, it is more than capable of handling mid-size batteries and offers a significant number of jump starts on smaller engines before needing a recharge.
Key Specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Peak Amps | 1200 |
| Starting Amps | 500 |
| Watt Hours | 37 |
| Jump Starts (Est.) | 8 |
| Phone Charges (Est.) | 3 |
While the GOOLOO GP2000 may not have the raw power of the HULKMAN Alpha85S, its high-capacity battery and versatile charging options, combined with its affordable price, make it a top rated car jump starter for users seeking the best bang for their buck.
GOOLOO GP2000 multimeter testWe 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.
Best Compact: NOCO Boost Plus GB40
NOCO Boost Plus GB40 jump starter
Overall Score: 67/100
For those prioritizing portability and space-saving design, the NOCO Boost Plus GB40 is the top rated car jump starter in the compact category. This lightweight and remarkably small device delivers impressive jump-starting power considering its size. A 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.“
Pros:
- Ultra-Compact and Lightweight: Easy to store in tight spaces.
- Boost Mode: Provides a quick burst of power for immediate jump starts.
- Waterproof (IP65): Durable and resistant to water and dust.
Cons:
- No Wall Charger Included: USB charging only, wall adapter not provided.
- Less Powerful for Larger Engines: Best suited for smaller to mid-size vehicles.
- Shorter Battery Life: Smaller size equates to less battery storage.
- Limited Versatility: Primarily focused on jump-starting and USB charging.
The NOCO Boost Plus GB40 features a “Boost Mode” which is particularly useful for quick jump starts. This mode delivers a rapid surge of power, often allowing you to start your vehicle almost instantly. Its IP65 waterproof rating provides added durability and peace of mind, making it suitable for use in various weather conditions. However, the GB40’s compact size does come with trade-offs. It’s not ideal for larger engines, and its battery life is shorter compared to larger models. Charging is limited to USB, and a wall adapter is not included.
Key Specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Peak Amps | 1000 |
| Starting Amps | 500 |
| Watt Hours | 24 |
| Jump Starts (Est.) | 10 |
| Phone Charges (Est.) | 4 |
Despite its limitations, the NOCO Boost Plus GB40 remains a top rated car jump starter for its exceptional combination of compact size and reliable performance. If space is a major concern, or you need a jump starter for smaller vehicles, the GB40 is an excellent choice. If you need more power and features, and size is less of a concern, the HULKMAN Alpha85S remains a superior option.
NOCO Boost Plus GB40 compact size
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.
Best for Home or Shop: Dewalt DXAEJ14
Dewalt DXAEJ14 jump starter
Overall Score: 60/100
For users seeking a multi-functional power station for home or shop use, the Dewalt DXAEJ14 is the top rated car jump starter in the versatile category. This robust unit goes beyond jump-starting, offering a range of features that are useful in various situations. Our lead tester highlighted its versatility: “Need to air up your tires? Check your alternator? Charge your cell phone? The Dewalt proved useful even when we weren’t testing jump-start capability.”
Pros:
- Rugged and Durable Build: Designed for demanding environments.
- High Peak Amps: 1400 peak amps for powerful jump-starting capability.
- Integrated Air Compressor: 120 PSI compressor with digital settings for tire inflation.
- Multiple Power Outlets: Includes USB ports and a 12V DC outlet for powering devices and accessories.
- Versatile Charging Options: Can be charged via 12V DC or 120 AC.
Cons:
- Heavy and Bulky: Less portable than lithium-ion models.
- Limited Accessory Storage: Cables and accessories can be difficult to organize.
- Requires Recharge After Each Jump: Sealed lead-acid battery needs recharging after each use.
- Lower Watt-Hour Battery: Limited battery storage compared to some lithium-ion models.
The Dewalt DXAEJ14’s integrated 120 PSI air compressor is a standout feature, allowing you to inflate tires to your desired pressure using the LCD screen and digital settings. In addition to its jump-starting capabilities and air compressor, it provides dual USB ports and a 12V DC charging port for powering various devices. While it is heavier and less portable than lithium-ion jump starters, the DXAEJ14 is capable of jump-starting larger engines and offers a range of functionalities that make it a valuable tool for home and shop environments.
Key Specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Peak Amps | 1400 |
| Starting Amps | 700 |
| Watt Hours | 21 |
| Jump Starts (Est.) | 2 |
| Phone Charges (Est.) | 4 |
The Dewalt DXAEJ14 is a top rated car jump starter for its versatility and robust features, making it ideal for home garages, workshops, or anyone who needs a reliable multi-purpose power station. While lithium-ion models excel in portability and multiple jump starts, the DXAEJ14 offers a broader range of functionalities, including a powerful air compressor and multiple power outlets, making it a worthwhile investment for those prioritizing versatility and home/shop use.
Dewalt DXAEJ14 compressorThe Dewalt DXAEJ14 is our favorite choice for a sealed-acid battery model that offers a compressor.
Product Comparison
Compact jump startersNot all jump starters are heavy and bulky. Many of the top models, like the NOCO Boost HD, are surprisingly compact.
To help you make the best decision, here’s a comparison of the top rated car jump starters we tested:
| Feature | HULKMAN Alpha85S | GOOLOO GP2000 | NOCO Boost Plus GB40 | Dewalt DXAEJ14 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 77 | 63 | 67 | 60 |
| Peak Amps | 2000 | 1200 | 1000 | 1400 |
| Watt Hours | 74 | 37 | 24 | 21 |
| Battery Type | Lithium-ion | Lithium-ion | Lithium-ion | Sealed Lead-Acid |
| Portability | Moderate | Moderate | Excellent | Poor |
| Versatility | High | Moderate | Low | High |
| Best For | Overall Performance | Best Value | Compact Size | Home/Shop Use |
| Price (Approx.) | $250 | $50 | $100 | $188 |
How We Test Car Jump Starters
At cardiagnosticnearme.com, we conduct rigorous testing to ensure our top rated car jump starter recommendations are reliable and accurate. We evaluate jump starters across five key metrics:
- Power Performance (30%): We assess the jump starter’s ability to deliver sufficient current and voltage to start various engine sizes, from motorcycles to large V8 engines. We measure voltage and current output during jump starts and evaluate performance in force start modes.
- Battery Storage (30%): We analyze battery capacity by examining watt-hours, testing the number of jump starts per charge, and measuring battery life while powering accessories like 12-volt compressors.
- Craftsmanship & Durability (20%): We evaluate build quality, materials, waterproof ratings (if applicable), cable quality, and overall robustness to withstand demanding use.
- Ease of Use (15%): We assess the user-friendliness of controls, displays, cable connections, and included safety features. We also consider the clarity of manuals and overall intuitiveness.
- Versatility (15%): We evaluate additional features beyond jump-starting, such as USB charging ports, 12V outlets, air compressors, and integrated flashlights, assessing their functionality and usefulness.
Our testing process involves real-world scenarios, using a fleet of vehicles with different battery sizes and engine types. We test both lithium-ion and sealed lead-acid jump starters to provide a comprehensive comparison across different battery technologies.
HULKMAN Alpha85S powering compressor
The HULKMAN Alpha85S is strong enough to power a 12 volt compressor.
Choosing the Right Top Rated Car Jump Starter
Selecting the top rated car jump starter for your needs depends on several factors:
- Battery Type (Lithium-ion vs. Sealed Lead-Acid): Lithium-ion jump starters are lighter, more compact, and offer more jumps per charge, while sealed lead-acid models are typically more affordable and rugged, but heavier and require more frequent charging.
- Jump-Starting Frequency: If you anticipate frequent jump starts, choose a model with higher watt-hours and battery storage capacity.
- Engine Size: For larger engines, prioritize jump starters with higher peak amp ratings.
- Storage Space: Consider the size and portability if storage space is limited in your vehicle.
- Versatility Needs: Determine if you require additional features like USB charging, air compressors, or work lights.
- Budget: Top rated car jump starters are available at various price points, so consider your budget and prioritize features accordingly.
NOCO Boost HD GB70 durabilityThe NOCO Boost HD GB70 trades in superfluous features for pure durability and reliability.
Conclusion: Stay Powered Up with a Top Rated Car Jump Starter
Investing in a top rated car jump starter is a smart decision for any driver. It provides peace of mind and ensures you’re never stranded due to a dead battery. Our comprehensive testing and reviews highlight the best options available, catering to various needs and budgets. Whether you choose the high-performance HULKMAN Alpha85S, the value-packed GOOLOO GP2000, the compact NOCO Boost Plus GB40, or the versatile Dewalt DXAEJ14, you can be confident you’re selecting a top rated car jump starter that will deliver reliable performance when you need it most.
Jump starter in useHaving a jump starter on hand can truly save the day.
