A dead car battery can strike at the most inconvenient times, turning a routine day into a stressful ordeal. Whether you’re in your own driveway, a crowded parking lot, or on a remote road trip, having a reliable jump starter in your trunk is the ultimate insurance policy. These compact power banks have evolved far beyond simple engine starters, often packing features like air compressors and high-speed device charging into a single, portable unit.
With so many options on the market, selecting the right one for your vehicle and needs is crucial. This roundup cuts through the noise to present nine of the best car jump starters available, from feature-packed powerhouses to trusted, straightforward models. We’ve evaluated them based on power, versatility, and unique features to help you find the perfect emergency companion for your vehicle.
Our Recommended Car Jump Starters
- WOLFBOX 4000A Jump Starter with 65W Quick Charger
- GOOLOO A3 Jump Starter with Air Compressor
- YaberAuto 12-in-1 Jump Starter with Air Compressor
- Clore Automotive Jump-N-Carry JNC660 Jump Starter
- GOOLOO GP4000 Jump Starter 4000A Peak Car Starter
- AVAPOW 6000A Car Battery Jump Starter
- YaberAuto 9-in-1 Jump Starter with Air Compressor
- NOCO Boost Plus GB40 1000A UltraSafe Jump Starter
- GOOLOO GE1200 SuperSafe Car Jump Starter
WOLFBOX 4000A Jump Starter with 65W Quick Charger
The WOLFBOX 4000A Jump Starter is a high-capacity powerhouse built for a wide range of vehicles. Its robust 24000mAh battery and 4000A peak current can revive 12V cars, trucks, and boats with gasoline or diesel engines up to 10 liters. An integrated HD LCD display provides a clear, real-time view of the unit’s status, so you’re never left guessing about its charge level or operational mode.
Beyond its jumping capabilities, this unit excels as a rapid charging hub. It features a 65W USB-C port for incredibly fast recharging of the pack itself—achieving a full charge in roughly 1.3 hours—and for powering laptops. With an additional QC3.0 USB-A port, it can efficiently charge phones, tablets, and other electronics, making it an essential multi-purpose tool for emergencies, travel, and camping trips.
GOOLOO A3 Jump Starter with Air Compressor
The GOOLOO A3 combines reliable engine starting power with a versatile air compressor, creating a true 7-in-1 emergency tool. Its 3000A output is sufficient for gas engines up to 9.0L and diesel engines up to 6.5L. A dedicated “BOOST” button provides the extra power needed to start vehicles with extremely low battery voltage, and its durable build is designed to handle over 1000 charge cycles in extreme temperatures.
The integrated tire inflator is a standout feature, offering five inflation modes (SUV, car, bike, ball, and custom) with a maximum pressure of 150 PSI. It can inflate a car tire in about a minute and provides up to 45 minutes of continuous use. This makes the A3 not just a jump starter, but also a portable power bank, a bright LED flashlight, and a convenient pump for bicycles and sports equipment.
YaberAuto 12-in-1 Jump Starter with Air Compressor
For those seeking maximum functionality, the YaberAuto 12-in-1 is a comprehensive roadside assistance kit in a single box. It delivers a massive 8000A of peak current, enabling it to start all gasoline and large 12.0L diesel engines. The package is exceptionally complete, including not only the jump starter and inflator but also 400V insulated gloves for added safety and a DC cigarette lighter adapter for 160W of output.
The 160PSI cordless digital inflator operates at a high airflow of 45L per minute, filling a car tire to 30 PSI in approximately two minutes. It features a large 3.3-inch LCD screen, five inflation modes, and an auto-shutoff function for precise pressure control. With its 65W fast charging, multiple light modes, and extensive accessory set, this unit is prepared for virtually any roadside scenario.
Clore Automotive Jump-N-Carry JNC660
The Clore Jump-N-Carry JNC660 is a professional-grade, heavy-duty jump starter built for power and durability. It eschews modern lithium compactness for the proven performance of a 22Ah PROFORMER battery, delivering 1700 peak amps and 425 cranking amps. This makes it a trusted choice for mechanics and commercial users who need reliable starting power for larger vehicles and equipment.
Its design prioritizes robust performance with 46-inch heavy-duty #2 AWG cables that are built to last. While it may not have the extra features like USB charging or an air compressor, its focus is purely on providing consistent, powerful engine starts. This model is a classic workhorse known for its reliability and strong output when you need it most.
GOOLOO GP4000 Jump Starter
The GOOLOO GP4000 is a powerful and reliable jump starter capable of starting all gasoline engines and diesel engines up to 10.0L. Its 4000A peak current and “BOOST” button function ensure you can revive a car even when the battery voltage is critically low. This versatility makes it suitable for a wide array of 12V vehicles, from cars and motorcycles to RVs, tractors, and boats.
With its massive internal capacity, the GP4000 also serves as an excellent portable power bank. It features dual USB output ports, including a fast-charging port, and a USB Type-C port for flexible charging options. Its compact design is highly portable, and on a full charge, it can provide enough power for over 60 jump starts, making it a dependable long-term emergency tool.
AVAPOW 6000A Car Battery Jump Starter
The AVAPOW jump starter stands out with its impressive 6000A peak current and rapid 2-second start capability, even on fully drained batteries. It supports all 12V gasoline engines and large diesel engines up to 12.0L, covering cars, trucks, motorcycles, boats, and more. Despite its substantial power, it remains ultra-lightweight and easy to store in a glove compartment or trunk.
Safety is a key focus, with intelligent jumper clamps that provide eight distinct protection features to prevent common errors like reverse polarity and short-circuiting. As a portable power pack, it includes two USB output ports, one of which is a quick-charging port that can cut device charging time in half for smartphones, tablets, and other electronics.
YaberAuto 9-in-1 Jump Starter with Air Compressor
The YaberAuto 9-in-1 is a more compact and lightweight multi-function jump starter that doesn’t sacrifice essential features. It delivers a boosted 5500A cranking current to start vehicles with up to 9.0L gas or 8.0L diesel engines and can operate in a wide temperature range. Its force start function is specifically designed to handle dead or low-voltage batteries effectively.
This model includes a 150PSI smart cordless inflator with a large LCD display. The high-turbo pump can inflate a car tire to 20 PSI in about two minutes and features auto-shutoff for convenience. With five inflation modes, a 160W DC output, dual USB ports, and multiple emergency light modes, it provides a balanced set of tools for most drivers in a highly portable package.
NOCO Boost Plus GB40 1000A UltraSafe Jump Starter
NOCO is a highly respected brand in the jump starter market, and the Boost Plus GB40 is known for its compact size and advanced safety features. Its 1000A output is engineered to start dead batteries in cars, trucks, SUVs, and more. The UltraSafe technology is a significant benefit, providing spark-proof protection and reverse polarity protection to give users peace of mind during operation.
Despite its small footprint—it’s about the size of a large smartphone—it is a robust tool designed for reliability. It also functions as a power bank for personal devices, featuring a USB output port. For those who prioritize safety, brand reputation, and extreme portability over the highest possible amperage, the NOCO GB40 is a top-tier choice.
GOOLOO GE1200 SuperSafe Car Jump Starter
The GOOLOO GE1200 is an excellent entry-level option for standard passenger vehicles. It provides reliable starting power with a focus on safety and ease of use. Its SuperSafe technology incorporates multiple protections to prevent incorrect connections, making it a good choice for users who may be unfamiliar with using a jump starter.
This model is compact and straightforward, designed to get the job done without complicated features. It serves as a dependable emergency tool for starting a car with a dead battery and can also be used to charge smartphones and other USB devices. For drivers of typical sedans and small SUVs looking for an affordable and simple backup plan, the GE1200 is a solid contender.
Buying Guide: How to Pick the Best Car Jump Starter for Emergencies
When my car battery died in a grocery store parking lot on a rainy night, I learned the hard way that not all car jump starters are created equal. I had a cheap, underpowered unit that just blinked at me sadly. Since then, I’ve made it my mission to figure out what really matters in a good emergency jump starter. Let me walk you through the key things I look for so you can avoid my mistake.
First and most important is power, which is measured in peak amps and cold cranking amps (CCA). Peak amps is the maximum burst of power the unit can provide to turn your engine over. For a standard 4-cylinder or 6-cylinder car, you’ll probably be fine with something around 1000-1500 peak amps. If you have a larger vehicle like a truck or SUV, especially with a V8 engine, you’ll want to look for 2000 peak amps or more. Cold cranking amps is also crucial because it tells you how well the unit will perform in, you guessed it, cold weather when your battery is at its weakest.
Next, consider the battery technology. Most of the best car jump starters for emergencies now use Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries. I prefer these because they are inherently safer and more stable than older lithium-ion types, and they hold a charge for a very long time while sitting in your trunk. Speaking of sitting in your trunk, pay attention to the size and weight. A good one should be compact, not much bigger than a large smartphone, and light enough to carry without being a burden.
Beyond the core function of jumping, look at the extra features. A bright LED flashlight is almost standard and is incredibly useful for nighttime emergencies. Many models also include USB ports for charging your phone or other devices, which turns the jump starter into a giant power bank. This has saved me on more than one camping trip. Some even have air compressors for filling up a low tire, though these units are typically larger.
Finally, don’t ignore the safety features. Look for protection against reverse polarity (connecting the clamps backwards), over-current, short-circuit, and over-charge. These features protect both you and your car’s expensive electronics. A clear, easy-to-read display that shows the battery level is also a huge plus, so you’re never caught off guard with a dead jump starter. By focusing on these aspects—power, battery type, portability, features, and safety—you can find a reliable unit that will get you out of a tough spot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a car jump starter hold its charge?
This is one of the first questions I had. Most modern lithium-powered jump starters have a very low self-discharge rate. A good quality unit can typically hold about 80% of its charge for 6 to 12 months just sitting in your glove box or trunk. I make a habit of checking the charge level every 3-4 months, especially before a long road trip or when the seasons change to winter. If it’s low, I just plug it in overnight to top it off. It’s a simple habit that ensures it’s ready when you need it most.
Can I use a jump starter on a completely dead battery?
Yes, absolutely. This is their primary job. Unlike jump-starting from another car, which relies on that car’s alternator, a portable jump starter delivers its own powerful surge of current directly to your starter motor. It doesn’t need a “donor” battery to work. In fact, it’s often safer for the electronics of the other car if you use a dedicated jump pack. Just make sure your jump starter is fully charged before you attempt it.
Are these jump starters safe for my car’s electronics?
I was worried about this too, especially with all the computers in modern cars. The good news is that high-quality jump starters are built with multiple safety circuits to protect your vehicle’s sensitive electronics. They include safeguards against reverse polarity, over-voltage, and short circuits. As long as you follow the instructions and connect the clamps correctly (red to positive, black to a clean unpainted metal surface), they are perfectly safe. It’s one of the reasons I feel more comfortable using one of the best car jump starters for emergencies than dealing with messy jumper cables from another vehicle.
What is the difference between peak amps and cranking amps?
This is a key distinction. Think of peak amps as the absolute maximum, short-lived burst of power the unit can provide to get the engine to turn over for the first time. It’s that initial “punch.” Cranking Amps (CA) and Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) are more realistic measures of the sustained power it can deliver for a few seconds while the engine is cranking. CCA is specifically measured at 0°F (-18°C), which is important for performance in winter. When comparing models, I pay more attention to a high CCA rating, as it’s a better indicator of real-world performance in tough conditions.
Can I charge my phone or other devices with a jump starter?
You can, and this is one of my favorite features. Almost all modern units come with one or more USB ports, and many even have USB-C fast charging. They essentially act as a giant power bank. I’ve used mine to charge phones, tablets, and even a laptop during a power outage. It’s a fantastic multi-purpose tool to have on hand. Just remember that using it to charge other devices will drain the jump starter’s battery, so be sure to recharge the unit itself afterwards.