The Best Portable Jump Starters

These compact options are reliable for fast jump starts

By
Jerri Ledford
Jerri Ledford
Jerri Ledford
Editorial Director
  • Western Kentucky University
  • Gulf Coast Community College
Jerri L. Ledford has been writing, editing, and fact-checking tech stories since 1994. Her work has appeared in Computerworld, PC Magazine, Information Today, and many others.
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Updated on May 2, 2025

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Standley J5C09 portable jump starter charging a tablet and phone
Photo:

Amazon

You can count on the best portable jump starters for fast, dependable jump starts when your battery's unresponsive.

Our research and testing brought us to these three picks that offer other must-have traits, including durability and handy extra features (think device charging).

Note: Prices are subject to change.

Our Top Picks

Just Buy This (All Around Best—And Under $100 Now):
SALE
NOCO Lithium Jump Starter Box at Amazon $125 $100
Jump to Review
Also Great:
Jump-N-Carry JNC660 1700 at Amazon $120
Jump to Review
Best Power Station Combo (Get 28 percent off right now!):
Stanley Peak Amp Jump Starter at Amazon
Jump to Review
Most Versatile (And under $50):
SALE
Andeman EP-155 Pro at Amazon $60 $50
Jump to Review

Just Buy This (All Around Best—And Under $100 Now)

NOCO Lithium Jump Starter Box

$125 $100 at Amazon View on Walmart $100 at The Home Depot

TL;DR: This pick from NOCO tops our list because of its well-rounded package; it's durable, compact, and a solid performer.

Why We Recommend It

The NOCO Boost Plus GB40 is a tiny, 2-pound jump starter that's easy to stow in your vehicle until you need it.

It can start your car in seconds and comes with a protective rubberized enclosure to keep it safe from rain and wear.

Pros

  • Includes a flashlight and power bank

  • Light 2.5-pound, water-resistant build

  • Up to 20 jump starts on single charge

Cons

  • Limited battery life

  • Not as versatile as other picks

The GB40 also comes with USB ports for easy recharging and device charging. Charging isn't very speedy; the estimate is about three hours.

Overall, if you're seeking a compact, straightforward jump starter, this pick could be the perfect backup.

  • Who else recommends it? Car and Driver, GearLab, and Popular Mechanics also give kudos to the GB40 for its compact and weather-resistant build.
  • What do buyers say? This portable jump starter is an Amazon favorite, earning over 113,000 reviews and an average 4.6-star rating. Happy buyers note that it starts cars instantly and is easy to fit in a glove compartment.

Also Great

Jump-N-Carry JNC660 1700

Jump-N-Carry JNC660 1700 Peak Amp 12V Jump Starter
Credit: Amazon
$120 at Amazon $140 $139 at Walmart

TL;DR: Fewer bells and whistles, but the replaceable battery, automatic recharging, and thoughtful design are winning features.

Why We Recommend It

It won't fit in your glove compartment, but the 1700-amp Jump-N-Carry JNC660 is relatively compact and well designed.

It has a carrying handle and dedicated cable holder, and the meter displays the battery status.

Pros

  • Built-in plug and automatic recharging

  • Replaceable battery

  • Long cables

Cons

  • No extras

  • Power cord not provided

While this model lacks typical extras like a flashlight or USB ports, it comes with a built-in plug for charging the battery with an AC cable (not included), and the automatic recharging function that keeps it always ready for use.

Another bonus is that you can replace the onboard battery. The downside is that you might experience semi-frequent replacements if you plan to use this device with a fleet of vehicles.

  • Who else recommends it? Clore Automotive is a respected name in the automotive space and other products from the brand earn high marks from publications like Popular Mechanics and Car and Driver.
  • What do buyers say? This unit has over 18,200 Amazon reviews and an average 4.6-star rating. Satisfied shoppers like the speedy performance and solid build.

Best Power Station Combo (Get 28 percent off right now!)

Stanley Peak Amp Jump Starter

STANLEY J5C09 1000 Peak Amp Jump Starter
Credit: Amazon
View on Amazon View on Walmart $93 at The Home Depot

TL;DR: If you want a dual jump starter and air compressor, this heavy-duty unit could fit the bill.

Why We Recommend It

Though the 18-pound STANLEY J5C09 1000 isn't the most portable option, it offers convenient two-in-one performance with a jump starter and an 120-PSI air compressor.

This unit also includes USB and 12-volt ports for device charging and an LED light that swivels 270 degrees.

Pros

  • 270-degree rotating LED light

  • Built-tin air compressor

  • High peak and starting amps

Cons

  • Requires frequent recharges

  • Tricky compressor switch

  • Hoses not long

While the double-duty flexibility is great to have, we noticed in testing that the air compressor hose and jumper cables are pretty short.

Still, while the jumper cables aren't long enough to set the unit on the ground, we saw reliable jump starts with each test.

Stanley J5C09 pumping up a tire

Lifewire / Tony Mitera

Another considerable drawback is that this device requires charging every 30 days without regular use.

However, if you like the dual jump starter and air compressor and don't mind the bulk, the J5C09 could be a multipurpose winner.

  • Who else recommends it? GearLab also gives a nod to the STANLEY J5C09 1000 for its durable build and overall value.
  • What do buyers say? Over 16,400 Amazon buyers have reviewed this unit, giving it an overall 4.3-star rating. More evidence that shoppers like this model? Seventy percent give it 5 stars, and most say it performs reliably and quickly.

Most Versatile (And under $50)

Andeman EP-155 Pro

Audew 2000A Upgraded Car Jump Starter
Credit: Audew
$60 $50 at Amazon View on Walmart View on Andeman.com

TL;DR: A handy, pocket-sized charger that doubles as an everyday device charger.

Why We Recommend It

The versatile and affordable Andeman Epower 155-Pro could can fit just about anywhere in your car, and comes with a handy carrying case for all the accessories, which includes a USB-C charging cable.

Pros

  • USB-C

  • Two USB-A ports

  • Large battery

  • Bright flashlight

Cons

  • 30-day charge cycle

This compact device delivers up to 3,000 amps of jump-starting power with speedy one-second starts for various vehicle types, and also doubles as a 2000mAh power bank.

It also offers an LED flashlight, a digital display, and the potential to deliver 80 jump starts or all-day device charging.

  • Who else recommends it? GearJunkie also likes this model's versatility, performance, and compact build.
  • What do buyers say? Amazon reviewers give this unit an average 4.4-star rating, praising its fast jump starts and long battery life.

What to Look For

Most 1,000- to 2,000-amp models can handle the average passenger car, but if you need the juice to jump start bigger vehicles, you might want to look for a bigger peak amps number.

Other stats and specs to pay attention to:

  • Jump starts and recharging: Look at the number of jump starts a unit can deliver on a full charge and how long a complete device recharge takes. Both can make a significant difference to the overall value.
  • Cable length and build: The cable quality isn't something to overlook. Consider the length (15 feet will do it for most people) and the gauge. Higher numbers reflect thicker wire and deliver more effectively. Eight-gauge cables should be fine for most cars, but larger batteries might require 6- or 4-gauge cables.
  • Extras: Portable jump starters usually offer more than battery assistance, but the extra versatility varies. Depending on your needs and wants, you can find everything from emergency lights or SOS strobes to emergency radios and air compressors.

What About a Battery Charger?

Unlike a portable jump starter that's easy to stow and gets your car back on the road right away, a charger recharges your car's battery over at least a few hours—and plugs into a power outlet.

Given those limitations, battery chargers are less favorable for on-the-go use. On the other hand, they're also useful if you have a dead battery and a faulty alternator.

If you can manage it, having both a portable jump starter and battery charger could blend the best of both worlds.

Stanley J5C09 back view of cords and compartments

Lifewire / Tony Mitera

FAQ

  • What is a jump starter?

    When your car's battery is dead, a jump starter gives it a jolt of power so you can turn your car on. From there, start driving, and your car's alternator will charge the battery as you go along.

  • How do you use a jump starter?

    First, connect the positive jumper cable to the positive terminal on the battery and the negative cable to the engine block. Then, place the jump box in a secure, out-of-the-way location and try to start your car. Once your vehicle is running, disconnect both cables and secure them to the jump box.

  • How much does a jump starter cost?

    Prices for jump starters range depending on their features, but it should be possible to find a decent option for $50 or $60. If you want a more sophisticated model, expect to pay about $150 or more.

  • How does a jump starter work?

    A jump starter gives the battery enough kick to turn the car on. You’ll need to drive your vehicle to power it back up again. However, most car alternators aren’t built to recharge a car’s battery fully from zero, and forcing one to do so can shorten its lifespan. In other words, it might be the way to go in a pinch, but if you can avoid jump-starting your car, it’s probably best to do so.

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