ConsFirst / Portable jump starters / Compare
TOPDON JumpSurge 3000 (JS3000) vs NOCO Boost Plus GB40 (1000A)
Which one has the downsides you can live with?
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The short answer
TOPDON JumpSurge 3000 (JS3000) ranks higher (#3 vs #4 of 8) and scores better on starting power, holds a charge. NOCO Boost Plus GB40 (1000A) wins on ease & safety features, size & weight, durability.
The biggest complaint about the TOPDON JumpSurge 3000 (JS3000) is mixed reports on charging and durability; for the NOCO Boost Plus GB40 (1000A) it's small battery, few jumps per charge. Pick the one whose catch bothers you less.
Side by side
| TOPDON JumpSurge 3000 (JS3000) | NOCO Boost Plus GB40 (1000A) | |
|---|---|---|
| Rank in portable jump starters | #3 | #4 |
| Price tier | $$ | $$ |
| Type | Lithium | Lithium |
| Amazon 1–2★ share | 5% | 5% |
| Overall score | 3.7 | 3.6 |
| Starting power | 4.0 | 3.0 |
| Holds a charge | 4.5 | 2.5 |
| Ease & safety features | 3.5 | 4.0 |
| Size & weight | 3.5 | 5.0 |
| Durability | 3.0 | 3.5 |
Price tiers: $ under $80 · $$ $80–180 · $$$ over $180. Highlighted = clearly better (a score gap of 0.3 or more, or a 1–2★ share at least 3 points lower). Scores are explained, with sources, on each product's page.
Top complaints
TOPDON JumpSurge 3000 (JS3000)
- Mixed reports on charging and durability
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 picks
CNN notes it's more expensive than its recommendations ($170 list, $140 when checked).
Source: CNN Underscored - Peak-amp claim is overblown
CNN says its output was similar to the Gooloo's, but the 3,000 peak-amp claim is overblown.
Source: CNN Underscored
NOCO Boost Plus GB40 (1000A)
- Small battery, few jumps per charge
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 vans
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.
Source: Walmart reviews (lowest rated), AutoGuide - Short leads and slow recharging
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.
Source: CNN Underscored, Car and Driver
Who should pick which
Pick the TOPDON JumpSurge 3000 (JS3000) if
Multiple jumps on one charge
Propping it up with the built-in kickstand or hook
SUVs and most gas engines
Skip it if: You want the cheapest reliable option; You want the smallest pack; Long-term durability is your top concern
Pick the NOCO Boost Plus GB40 (1000A) if
Glove-box storage for a car or small SUV
Drivers who want a simple, proven brand
Occasional emergency use
Skip it if: You need several jumps per charge; You drive a large truck or big V8; You want long cables
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