ConsFirst / Portable jump starters
Portable jump starters: the downsides, first
Ignore the giant peak-amp numbers on the box: CNN measured far less, and an AAA engineer told CNN peak amps are more marketing than reality. Here are the most popular portable jump starters in the US, with their downsides first.
8 models compared13 sources readUpdated October 2026
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All 8 portable jump starters, ranked
Ranked by test scores, minus how common and serious the complaints are. How we rank
#1
GOOLOO
$$LithiumScore 4.1/5
0%
of Amazon ratings are 1–2 stars
(checked 2026-10-10)Only 99 ratings on this listing, whose title includes an EVA storage case. No larger single-unit Amazon.com listing for the GT4000S was found.CNN's best jump starter overall. It had some of the strongest output in CNN's tests, plus a big screen and instructions printed on the back. It's chunky, has no hard case, and its 4,000-amp rating is marketing; CNN measured about 3,500 W.
Top complaints
- BulkyMentioned often
At 9 x 4 x 2 inches, CNN calls it a bit chunky, and it doesn't come with a hard-shell case.
- Awkwardly placed flashlightOccasional
CNN says the flashlight is on the opposite side from the cable port.
- Peak-amp claim is inflatedMentioned often
Gooloo advertises 4,000 peak amps. CNN measured roughly 360-480 A, and an AAA engineer told CNN that peak amps are more a marketing term than reality.
What owners love
- Among the strongest outputs CNN measured
About 3,500 W in each load trial (360 A at 9.5 V, 480 A at 7.5 V), which CNN says is enough for most engines unless you drive a big diesel truck.
- Easiest to understand
It has a large screen with the exact battery percentage and a 'ready' signal, three-step instructions and a troubleshooting chart on the back, a clearly labelled boost button, and an X plus a beep if you reverse the clamps (CNN).
- Long leads and fast recharging
The 11- and 10-inch leads are longer than on some rivals. A 100 W USB-C port recharges it quickly, and it comes with a 100 W charger and several cables (CNN).
Skip it if…- You drive a big diesel truck
- You want glove-box size
- You want a hard case
Good for- First-timers who want instructions on the unit
- Most cars, SUVs and pickups (gas)
- Using it as a USB-C power bank
Scores (tap for why)
- Starting power4.5
Why 4.5?
About 3,500 W, 360-480 A on CNN's load tester, which it says is enough for most engines except big diesel trucks. - Holds a charge4.0
Why 4.0?
74 Wh, and each heavy load used about 20% (CNN). The small Amazon sample says it holds a charge well. - Ease & safety features5.0
Why 5.0?
Large screen, instructions printed on the unit, a labelled boost button and a reverse-polarity beep (CNN). - Size & weight3.0
Why 3.0?
9 x 4 x 2 inches, which CNN calls a bit chunky. It comes with a drawstring bag, not a hard case.
What experts say
- CNN Underscored: Best jump starter (published 2026-04-30): beginner-friendly, with output among the best tested. Cons are its chunky size, no hard case and a badly placed flashlight.
#2
Clore Automotive
$$$LithiumScore 3.8/5
8%
of Amazon ratings are 1–2 stars
(checked 2026-10-10)Small sample (486 ratings).Car and Driver's best overall: just two buttons, 24-inch cables and enough power for almost any consumer vehicle. It's pricier than most, and some Amazon owners find it overpriced or report battery issues.
Top complaints
- PriceyVery common
Car and Driver lists 'Pricier than most' as its con, and Gear Patrol says it costs more than other portable jump starters on its list. Amazon owners are split on value, and some find it overpriced.
- Mixed battery reportsMentioned often
Amazon's summary says some owners find it starts dead batteries instantly, while others report issues.
- Some want even longer cablesOccasional
Amazon owners say the cables are longer than most, but some wish they were 50% longer.
What owners love
- Simple and powerful
It has just power and override buttons. Car and Driver needed the override, then it started the car with ease. Amazon owners say it starts V8s and big engines.
- Long cables
The 24-inch cables are the longest of the lithium units in Car and Driver's test.
- Compact for its power
Car and Driver says it fits in a trunk. Amazon owners say it fits easily under a seat.
Skip it if…- You're on a tight budget
- You want the lightest pack
- You want a big display
Good for- V8s and large gas engines (rated up to 8.0 L)
- Simple two-button operation
- Batteries in hard-to-reach spots
Scores (tap for why)
- Starting power4.5
Why 4.5?
Rated 2,000A, for up to 8.0 L gas and 6.0 L diesel. It started Car and Driver's car with the override, and Amazon owners say it starts V8s. - Holds a charge3.0
Why 3.0?
No expert capacity test was published. Amazon owners are mixed on battery life. - Ease & safety features4.5
Why 4.5?
Two buttons, 24-inch cables and a soft case (Car and Driver). Amazon owners find it straightforward to use. - Size & weight3.5
Why 3.5?
2.6 lb per Car and Driver (Gear Patrol lists 4.3 lb). It fits under a seat (Amazon). - Durability3.5
Why 3.5?
Amazon owners call it reliable, but some report battery issues.
What experts say
- Car and Driver: Best overall (updated 2026-05): long cables, ease of use and solid specs. Its con is that it costs more than most.
- Gear Patrol: Listed for starting up to 8-liter gas engines and USB-C, but it's pricier and heavier than other choices.
#3
TOPDON
$$LithiumScore 3.7/5
5%
of Amazon ratings are 1–2 stars
(checked 2026-10-10)The listing shows variant options; we didn't confirm whether its 5,033 ratings are pooled across variants.CNN's pick if you need several jumps per charge: it has 88 Wh, and CNN's load tests drained it more slowly than the Gooloo or NOCO. Its output was similar to the Gooloo's, despite an inflated 3,000-amp claim. It costs more than CNN's picks, and Amazon owners are split on charging and durability.
Top complaints
- Mixed reports on charging and durabilityVery common
Amazon's summary says some owners find it holds a charge for an exceptionally long time, while others say it won't charge fully. Some say it holds up well, while others report it breaking after a few uses.
- Costs more than the top picksMentioned often
CNN notes it's more expensive than its recommendations ($170 list, $140 when checked).
- Peak-amp claim is overblownOccasional
CNN says its output was similar to the Gooloo's, but the 3,000 peak-amp claim is overblown.
What owners love
- Big capacity
88 Wh, and CNN's load tests didn't drain it as quickly as the Gooloo and NOCO. CNN calls it the best model it tested for multiple jumps on one charge.
- Strong enough for SUVs
CNN measured output similar to its top pick. Amazon owners say it has enough power for most vehicles and starts SUVs within seconds.
- Handy setup features
It has a built-in kickstand and hanger for setting it up under the hood (CNN). Amazon owners say it doubles as a power bank.
Skip it if…- You want the cheapest reliable option
- You want the smallest pack
- Long-term durability is your top concern
Good for- Multiple jumps on one charge
- Propping it up with the built-in kickstand or hook
- SUVs and most gas engines
Scores (tap for why)
- Starting power4.0
Why 4.0?
CNN measured output similar to the Gooloo GT4000S. Amazon owners say it starts SUVs within seconds. - Holds a charge4.5
Why 4.5?
88 Wh, and it drained more slowly than the Gooloo and NOCO in CNN's tests. Some Amazon owners say it won't charge fully. - Ease & safety features3.5
Why 3.5?
A built-in kickstand and hanger help with setup under the hood (CNN). - Size & weight3.5
Why 3.5?
Amazon owners appreciate its portability. No expert gave a weight. - Durability3.0
Why 3.0?
Amazon owners are split: some say it holds up amazingly, others say it broke after a few uses.
What experts say
- CNN Underscored: Also tested (published 2026-04-30): not stronger than its peers, but its 88 Wh capacity makes it the best tested model for several jumps on one charge. It costs more than CNN's picks.
#4
NOCO
$$LithiumScore 3.6/5
5%
of Amazon ratings are 1–2 stars
(checked 2026-10-10)The best-known jump starter and the smallest one CNN and Car and Driver tested. It's CNN's budget pick and Car and Driver's most compact pick. Its small battery (24-30 Wh) may give only one or two jumps per charge, the leads are short, and some owners say it couldn't start a truck or stopped taking a charge.
Top complaints
- Small battery, few jumps per chargeVery common
Car and Driver measured 30 Wh, the lowest in its test. One jump on a badly drained battery took it from full to 25%, so the editors wouldn't count on more than one or two jumps per charge. CNN measured 24 Wh and needed to recharge after two heavy loads. Amazon's summary says battery life is mixed, with some owners reporting it won't recharge.
- Not enough power for some trucks and vansMentioned often
Low-star Walmart reviews describe it failing to start a truck, a van and a completely dead 2024 F-150 (it only half cranked, then drained to zero). AutoGuide lists 'Only 1,000A' as a con and calls the maker's engine-size claims optimistic for larger engines.
- Short leads and slow rechargingMentioned often
CNN found the 6-inch leads disappointingly short, and recharging takes two to three hours because the input is limited to 5 V, 2.1 A. Car and Driver also says the leads are extremely short and the clamps are hard to squeeze.
What owners love
- Smallest and easiest to stow
It was the smallest jump starter in both CNN's and Car and Driver's tests, and AutoGuide calls it extremely compact. Amazon owners like its size and portability.
- Steady output
On CNN's load tester, it held its output steady for longer than other models, which tended to dip after a second or two. CNN measured about 160 A at 7 V, which it says is enough for a four-cylinder or V6.
- Simple to use, with strong clamps
CNN says you hook it up, turn it on and start the car, and it has a boost mode for very dead batteries. CNN found its clamps the strongest it tested, opening a full 2 inches. AutoGuide calls them the best clamps in the business.
Skip it if…- You need several jumps per charge
- You drive a large truck or big V8
- You want long cables
Good for- Glove-box storage for a car or small SUV
- Drivers who want a simple, proven brand
- Occasional emergency use
Scores (tap for why)
- Starting power3.0
Why 3.0?
CNN measured about 160 A at 7 V and found it sustained output longer than rivals, but lower than the bigger models it tested. Some Walmart owners say it couldn't start trucks or vans. - Holds a charge2.5
Why 2.5?
24 Wh (CNN) or 30 Wh (Car and Driver), the lowest in both tests. One jump took it to 25%. Amazon owners are mixed on whether it holds a charge. - Ease & safety features4.0
Why 4.0?
Simple controls and a boost mode (CNN, Car and Driver). There are no instructions printed on the unit (CNN), and Car and Driver found the clamps hard to squeeze. - Size & weight5.0
Why 5.0?
It was the smallest model in both CNN's and Car and Driver's tests, at 2.0 lb per Car and Driver. - Durability3.5
Why 3.5?
AutoGuide says it's better built than others its size, and Gear Patrol notes it's IP65-rated. Amazon owners are mixed on durability, and some report failures within months.
What experts say
- CNN Underscored: Best budget jump starter (published 2026-04-30). It's reliable for most cars, but has short 6-inch leads, a small 24 Wh battery and slow charging.
- Car and Driver: Most compact (updated 2026-05). It's easy to use, but the leads are very short, the clamps are hard to squeeze, and the battery is only good for one or two jumps.
- AutoGuide: Editor's pick: smaller and better built than other jump starters its size. Cons are only 1,000A and no USB-C port.
#5
GOOLOO
$$LithiumScore 3.6/5
9%
of Amazon ratings are 1–2 stars
(checked 2026-10-10)Small sample (595 ratings).Car and Driver's pick for large engines. Its build inspired confidence, and Gooloo rates it for diesels up to 12 liters. It's too big for most glove boxes, the frosted screen can be hard to read, and some Amazon owners report it breaking within weeks.
Top complaints
- Some units break earlyMentioned often
Amazon's summary says build quality is good, but some owners report it breaking within weeks of use.
- No charger in the boxMentioned often
Amazon's summary says charging gets mixed feedback, and several owners note it doesn't come with a charger.
- Hard-to-read screen and bulkyMentioned often
Car and Driver says the frosted-glass screen is hard to read when it catches the light, and the unit is chunky and probably won't fit in a glove box.
What owners love
- Plenty of power
It started Car and Driver's dead-battery car in boost mode. Gooloo rates it for all gas engines and diesels up to 12.0 liters. Amazon owners say it works well on dead batteries.
- Big clamps and a bright light
Car and Driver preferred its larger clamps for use with gloves. It also liked the single flap over all the ports and the very bright LED flashlight.
- Good value and a power bank
Amazon owners consider it well worth the money. It has 100 W USB-C PD, two USB-A ports and a 15 V DC output (Car and Driver).
Skip it if…- You want something glove-box sized
- You need a wall charger in the box
- You only drive a small car
Good for- Large gas or diesel engines
- Using it with gloves on
- A power bank with 100 W USB-C
Scores (tap for why)
- Starting power4.5
Why 4.5?
Rated 6,000A and for diesels up to 12 L. It started Car and Driver's test car in boost mode. - Holds a charge3.0
Why 3.0?
It has 100 W USB-C recharging (Car and Driver), but Amazon owners are mixed on charging, partly because there's no charger in the box. - Ease & safety features4.0
Why 4.0?
User-friendly interface, one flap for all ports and big glove-friendly clamps. The frosted screen can be hard to read (Car and Driver). - Size & weight3.0
Why 3.0?
3.3 lb with 17-inch leads, and chunky enough that it probably won't fit in a glove box (Car and Driver). - Durability3.5
Why 3.5?
Car and Driver says the build inspires confidence. Some Amazon owners report it breaking within weeks.
What experts say
- Car and Driver: Best for large engines (updated 2026-05): powerful and durable, and doubles as a power bank. The display can be hard to read, and it's too big for most glove boxes.
#6
STRAUTO
$LithiumScore 3.4/5
12%
of Amazon ratings are 1–2 stars
(checked 2026-10-10)Small sample (57 ratings).Car and Driver's budget pick. At 1.44 lb, it was the lightest jump starter it tested, with long 21-inch leads and a good storage bag. The clamps are small and plasticky, the screen can be hard to read, and Amazon has few ratings so far.
Top complaints
- Small, plasticky clampsMentioned often
Car and Driver says the clamps are a bit too small and plasticky.
- Hard-to-read screenMentioned often
Car and Driver says the screen can be hard to read at times.
- Stiff cable connector at firstOccasional
Car and Driver had trouble connecting the cables to the unit until the connector wore in.
What owners love
- Very light
At 1.44 lb, Car and Driver calls it easily the lightest of the bunch, small enough to lose in a glove box.
- Long leads and a good bag
The leads are 21 inches, and Car and Driver says the carrying bag is rigid and durable, with organizing pockets.
- Gets the job done
Car and Driver calls it more than enough for the occasional jump. Amazon owners say it works well, with one saying it started a Honda CR-V right up.
Skip it if…- You want sturdy metal clamps
- You need power for big engines
- You want a long track record
Good for- A cheap backup for the occasional jump
- The lightest, most stowable pack
- Small and midsize cars
Scores (tap for why)
- Starting power3.0
Why 3.0?
Rated 1,200A. Car and Driver says it's more than enough for the occasional jump, and an Amazon owner says it started a Honda CR-V. - Holds a charge3.0
Why 3.0?
Amazon owners say it charges quickly, and one says it kept them going for a month. No expert capacity test was published. - Ease & safety features3.0
Why 3.0?
Long 21-inch leads, but small clamps, a hard-to-read screen and a stiff cable connector at first (Car and Driver). - Size & weight5.0
Why 5.0?
1.44 lb, the lightest in Car and Driver's test, with a good storage bag. - Durability3.0
Why 3.0?
Car and Driver calls the clamps plasticky but the bag durable.
What experts say
- Car and Driver: Best budget (updated 2026-05): extremely light, with long leads and a great bag. The clamps are small and the screen can be hard to read.
#7
HULKMAN
$$LithiumScore 3.4/5
5%
of Amazon ratings are 1–2 stars
(checked 2026-10-10)Small sample (117 ratings).CNN tested it and found its total output between the NOCO GB40 and the Gooloo GT4000S, from a brand that doesn't wildly exaggerate its specs. It often gave overheating warnings in boost mode, and its clamps are small and hard to grip.
Top complaints
- Overheats in boost modeMentioned often
CNN says it frequently gave overheating warnings when pushed to its limits in boost mode.
- Small, hard-to-grip clampsMentioned often
CNN found the clamps smaller and harder to grip than some rivals', though sturdy.
- Less guidance than the GoolooOccasional
CNN says the Gooloo, which is otherwise similar in design, does more to give instructions.
What owners love
- Honest ratings, solid output
CNN appreciated that its specs weren't egregiously overblown. Its output landed between the NOCO and the Gooloo.
- Multiple jumps per charge
Amazon owners report several car jumps on a single charge and find it reliable on everything from cars to ATVs.
- Sturdy build
CNN says the clamps feel sturdy and well built. Amazon owners consider it well worth the money.
Skip it if…- You want the clearest instructions
- You'll use boost mode often
- You want big, easy clamps
Good for- Buyers wary of inflated amp ratings
- Cars and small SUVs
- A combined jump starter and power bank
Scores (tap for why)
- Starting power3.5
Why 3.5?
Total output between the NOCO GB40 and the Gooloo GT4000S on CNN's load tester. - Holds a charge3.5
Why 3.5?
Amazon owners report multiple jumps on one charge and praise the battery life. No expert capacity test was published. - Ease & safety features3.0
Why 3.0?
Small, hard-to-grip clamps and less on-unit guidance than the Gooloo (CNN). - Durability3.5
Why 3.5?
The clamps feel sturdy and well built, but it often gave overheating warnings in boost mode (CNN).
What experts say
- CNN Underscored: Also tested (published 2026-04-30): 'you could do worse.' Output fell between the NOCO and the Gooloo, but it gave frequent overheating warnings in boost mode and has small clamps.
#8
Clore Automotive
$$$Lead-acidScore 3.0/5
5%
of Amazon ratings are 1–2 stars
(checked 2026-10-10)The classic lead-acid jump box, with long 46-inch heavy cables and the stamina to crank for a long time or jump several vehicles. AutoGuide says it handles completely dead batteries that lithium units often can't. It weighs about 18 lb, loses its charge faster than lithium packs and needs monthly top-ups.
Top complaints
- Heavy and bulkyVery common
Gear Patrol lists it at 18 lb, much heavier than lithium jump starters. AutoGuide calls it large and heavy. Amazon owners are split on the weight.
- Loses charge faster and wears out soonerVery common
AutoGuide says it loses charge much faster and doesn't last as long as lithium, and should be topped off every 30 days. Amazon's summary says some owners report it stops taking a charge or doesn't last a month. A Walmart reviewer says it failed within 7 months.
- Accessories missing from some third-party ordersOccasional
A 2-star Walmart review from a third-party seller says the accessories in the instructions weren't included.
What owners love
- Lots of starting power
It's rated at 1,700 peak and 425 cranking amps, and AutoGuide says it can crank for long periods or jump multiple vehicles. Amazon owners say it has plenty of power for BMW and Mercedes vehicles.
- Long, heavy-duty cables and clamps
It has 46-inch 2-gauge leads with big, strong clamps (AutoGuide) and a voltmeter that shows the charge at the push of a button (Gear Patrol).
- Long life for some owners
Amazon owners find it easier than jumper cables. Some say it stays charged a long time and lasts up to three years.
Skip it if…- You want to keep it in a glove box
- You won't top it off every month
- Weight matters
Good for- Large vehicles, fleets and shop use
- Completely dead batteries
- Repeated long cranking
Scores (tap for why)
- Starting power5.0
Why 5.0?
1,700 peak and 425 cranking amps. AutoGuide says it handles completely dead batteries and can crank repeatedly. - Holds a charge2.0
Why 2.0?
AutoGuide says it loses charge much faster than lithium and needs topping off every 30 days. Amazon owners report units that stop taking a charge. - Ease & safety features4.0
Why 4.0?
Long 46-inch leads, big clamps and a voltmeter (AutoGuide, Gear Patrol). Amazon owners find it easier than jumper cables. - Size & weight1.0
Why 1.0?
About 18 lb (Gear Patrol). AutoGuide calls it large and heavy. - Durability3.0
Why 3.0?
Heavy-duty case (Gear Patrol), but AutoGuide says lead-acid doesn't last as long as lithium. Amazon and Walmart owners report mixed lifespans.
What experts say
- AutoGuide: Best for large vehicles: it can handle completely dead batteries that lithium units often can't. It's large and heavy, though, and loses its charge faster.
- Gear Patrol: Rated for all passenger and light commercial vehicles, with 46-inch cables and a heavy-duty case. It's bulkier and heavier than lithium, at 18 lb.