The best portable jump starters are reliably speedy, compact, and durable—which is exactly what you want you want when you’re left with an unresponsive car battery.
After thorough testing and research, these are the picks we think you’ll want to have in your trunk or glove compartment.
Note: Prices are subject to change.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/noco-boost-plus-gb40-lifewire-editors-choice-2025-5d86a1634f82416aae9793b86550a874.jpg)
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
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 120,000 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.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/jump-n-carry-jnc660-1700-peak-amp-12v-jump-starter-49886f6f3a1848b89e147fb01d53259e.jpg)
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.
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 19,000 Amazon reviews and an average 4.6-star rating. Satisfied shoppers like its durability and speed.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/STANLEY-J5C09-1000-Peak-Amp-Jump-Starter-141c15143d144aa28d715dbdfc6bfd75.jpg)
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.
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.
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? On Amazon, more than 34,000 shoppers have purchased and rated this model an average 4.1 out of 5 stars. And nearly 70 percent give it 5 stars, and most say it performs reliably and quickly.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Audew-2000A-Upgraded-Car-Jump-Starter-2cd74eb7c3064e10b8e4a5b693d5bb01.jpg)
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
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 jump starter 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.
Lifewire / Tony Mitera
Thanks for letting us know!
Tell us why!
