A reliable jump starter can make all the difference when your car battery dies. I’ve tested six of the best lithium-ion jump starters to help you find the perfect one for your needs. These top picks offer a range of features to suit various situations. If you’re alone and need to jump-start your car, follow the steps in our complete guide to jump-starting a car by yourself.
Whether you need serious power or a compact solution, I’ll break down the pros and cons to help you choose the best jump starter for your vehicle. Let’s get started!
Why Choose Lithium-Ion Jump Starters?
Having used various jump starters over the years, lithium-ion models have a clear edge over traditional lead-acid ones. For starters, they’re incredibly compact and lightweight, making them a breeze to store and handle—something I appreciate when juggling tools and gear.
Lithium-ion batteries pack a lot more power in a smaller size, meaning they’re more efficient and durable. They hold their charge for months, unlike lead-acid batteries that often need frequent recharges. Plus, many lithium-ion jump starters come with built-in safety features like reverse polarity protection, adding an extra security layer.
All these factors combined make lithium-ion jump starters a more intelligent, reliable choice for anyone on the road. Jump-starting a car with a bad alternator can be tricky. Find out what you need to know in our detailed guide on jump-starting a car with a bad alternator.
How Do I Know Which Jump Starter is Right for My Vehicle?
Choosing the correct jump starter can seem daunting, given the many options available. Having tested various models, I can offer some insights to help you make an informed decision. Curious if you can jump-start a motorcycle with a car? Get the answer and essential tips in our article on jump-starting a motorcycle with a car.
First, consider the peak output of the jump starter. This is crucial because it determines whether the device can start your vehicle. A peak output of around 1000 amps is sufficient for most standard cars. However, if you drive a larger vehicle or one with a high-displacement engine, you’ll want a jump starter with a higher output, like the 3000 amps offered by the GOOLOO GP3000.
Next, think about additional features. Some jump starters double as power banks and flashlights, which can be incredibly handy. For instance, the NOCO Boost Plus GB40 is compact and versatile, offering a reliable jump-start and the ability to charge your devices.
Lastly, the build quality and safety features should be considered. A robust design and safety protections like reverse polarity and spark-proof technology are important for both reliability and safety. If you need to jump-start a 6-volt battery, check out our guide on how to jump-start a 6-volt battery to ensure you’re doing it correctly.
Comparison table of Best Lithium-Ion Jump Starter
| Product | Peak Output (amps) | Battery Capacity (mAh) | USB Ports | Flashlight Lumen | Weight (pounds) | Engine Capacity (L) |
| GOOLOO GP3000 | 3000 | 16000 | 2 | 400 | 1.8 | Up to 10.0L gas, 8.0L diesel |
| NOCO Boost Plus GB40 | 1000 | 2150 | 1 | 100 | 0.5 | Up to 6.0L gas, 3.0L diesel |
| AstroAI S8 | 1500 | 45C (high-rate) | 1 | 3 modes | 0.95 | Up to 6.0L gas, 3.0L diesel |
| Acmount 3000A | 3000 | 20000 | 2 | 3 modes | 2.2 | Up to 10.0L gas, 8.0L diesel |
| OXILAM 4000A | 4000 | 12800 | 2 | 600 | 0.68 | Up to 10.0L gas, 8.0L diesel |
| S ZEVZO ET03 | 2500 | 20000 | 2 | 400 | 1.38 | Up to 8.0L gas, 7.0L diesel |
GOOLOO GP3000 Jump Starter | Best For Large Gas & Diesel Engines
I’ve been relying on the GOOLOO GP3000 for a while now, and it’s awe-inspiring. Its versatility sets it apart—it’s not just a jump starter; it also serves as a power bank, LED flashlight, and a 15V DC power supply for other car accessories.
I love its rugged design, and the built-in safety features give me confidence that it will perform under any conditions, making it an essential part of my road kit.
Specifications:
- Peak Output: 3000 amps for powerful starts.
- Battery: 16,000 mAh with 1,000+ cycles.
- Safety Features: 10 protections, including reverse polarity.
- Flashlight: 400 lumens with 3 modes.
- Ports: Dual USB and 15V DC outputs.
- Temperature Range: -4°F to 140°F.
- Build Scratch-resistant with heavy-duty clamps.
Pros:
- Starts large engines quickly.
- Acts as a power bank.
- Durable and rugged design.
- Fast charging with Quick Charge.
Cons:
- Requires regular recharging.
What Package Includes:
- GOOLOO GP3000 Jump Starter.
- Smart Jumper Cable.
- USB to Type-C Cable.
- Type-C to Type-C Cable.
- Storage Bag.
NOCO Boost Plus GB40 | Best For Safe, Compact Car Jump-Starts
I’ve been using the NOCO Boost Plus GB40, and it’s honestly a lifesaver. This compact but powerful jump starter delivers 1000 amps of peak power, efficiently handling my car’s needs. I appreciate the UltraSafe technology—no more worrying about sparks or wrong connections. Plus, it’s not just a jump starter; it doubles as a power bank and flashlight, making it an essential tool for any driver.
Specifications:
- Peak Output: 1000 amps, up to 20 jump starts.
- Battery Capacity: 2150 mAh lithium.
- Safety: Spark-proof, reverse polarity protection.
- Flashlight: 100 lumens, 7 light modes.
- Design: IP65-rated, compact, water-resistant.
- Weight: Lightweight at 7.94 ounces.
Pros:
- Easy and safe to use.
- Portable and lightweight design.
- Functions as a power bank.
- Durable with water-resistant casing.
Cons:
- Requires charging via USB port.
What Package Includes:
- GB40 Jump Starter Pack.
- Heavy-duty booster clamps.
- 12-Volt car charger.
- Micro USB charging cable.
- Microfiber storage bag.
AstroAI S8 Jump Starter | Best For: Compact, Reliable Jump Starts
I recently got my hands on the AstroAI S8 Jump Starter, and I must say, it’s a game-changer for anyone who’s ever dealt with a dead battery. I love that it’s equipped with smart boost technology, automatically detecting the battery’s voltage and providing a safe and efficient jump start every time.
Specifications:
- Peak Output: 1500 amps for 12V vehicles.
- Battery Capacity: 45C high-rate lithium battery.
- Safety Features: 8 protections, including reverse polarity.
- Flashlight Modes: 3 modes – flashlight, strobe, SOS.
- Design: Lightweight at 0.95 pounds, compact size.
- Charging Time: USB rechargeable within 3-4 hours.
- Vehicle Compatibility: Works with gas engines up to 6.0L and diesel up to 3.0L.
Pros:
- Smart boost for drained batteries.
- Multi-function with power bank and flashlight.
- Easy to store and carry.
- Durable with safety metal clamps.
Cons:
- Requires USB charging.
Package Includes:
- S8 Car Jump Starter.
- Smart jumper cable with clamps.
- USB charging cable.
- Storage bag.
- User manual.
Acmount 3000A Jump Starter | Best for High-Power, Versatile Performance
I recently tried the Acmount 3000A Jump Starter, and I’m impressed with its power and versatility. It’s perfect for starting engines up to 10.0L gas or 8.0L diesel. Plus, it doubles as a portable power bank with dual USB ports so that you can charge your devices on the go. The built-in LED flashlight with three modes (flashlight, strobe, and SOS) is a handy feature, especially in emergencies.
Specifications:
- Peak Output: 3000 amps for 12V vehicles.
- Battery Capacity: 20,000 mAh lithium-ion battery.
- USB Outputs: Dual USB 3.0 ports (5V/3A, 9V/2A, 15V/1.5A).
- Safety Features: 10 types of protection, including spark-proof and reverse polarity.
- Flashlight Modes: 3 modes – flashlight, strobe, SOS.
- Design: Weighs 2.2 pounds, compact size.
- Standby Time: Holds power for about 24 months.
Pros:
- Handles large engines with ease.
- Charges devices through multiple USB ports.
- Long-lasting battery life and versatile flashlight.
- Extensive safety features.
Cons:
- A bit bulkier compared to smaller models.
Package Includes:
- Acmount 3000A Jump Starter.
- Heavy-Duty Smart Clamp.
- USB Type-C Charging Cable.
- Storage Case.
- User Manual.
OXILAM 4000A Jump Starter | Best For: High-Power, Portable Jump-Starting
I recently got the OXILAM 4000A Jump Starter, a powerhouse. This compact device is remarkably lightweight at just around 10.9 ounces, making it easy to store and carry. The bright 600-lumen LED flashlight with three modes—flashlight, SOS, and strobe—proves invaluable in emergencies.
Specifications:
- Peak Output Current: 4000 amps
- Battery Capacity: 12800 milliamp hours
- USB Ports: Dual USB-A outputs (5V/3A, 9V/2A, 15V/1.5A)
- Safety Features: 10 layers of protection, including overcharge, overcurrent, and reverse polarity
- Flashlight: 600 lumens with three modes
- Dimensions: 7.91 x 4.3 x 3.07 inches
- Weight: 10.9 ounces
Pros:
- Powerful enough for large engines up to 10.0L gas and 8.0L diesel.
- Extremely portable and lightweight.
- Multi-functional with power bank capabilities and a bright flashlight.
- Comprehensive safety protections.
Cons:
- Requires charging above fifty percent before use.
Package Includes:
- OXILAM 4000A Jump Starter.
- Heavy-duty smart clamps.
- USB Type-C charging cable.
- Storage case.
- User manual.
S ZEVZO ET03 Jump Starter | Best for Versatile, High-Performance Jump-Starting
I recently tried out the S ZEVZO ET03 Jump Starter, and it’s truly impressive. It’s incredibly efficient, allowing up to 50 jump-starts on a single charge. Beyond just jump-starting, it doubles as a portable power bank with a substantial 74Wh battery capacity and dual 5V/2A USB ports for charging devices. The jump starter’s rugged design ensures reliable performance in various conditions.
Specifications:
- Peak Output Current: 2500 amps
- Battery Capacity: 20000 milliamp hours
- USB Ports: Dual 5V/2A
- LED Flashlight: 400 lumens with three modes
- Dimensions: 1.5 x 3.4 x 7.5 inches
- Weight: 1.38 pounds
- Temperature Range: -4°F to 140°F
Pros:
- High peak output for efficient jump-starting.
- Dual USB ports for fast charging.
- Bright LED flashlight with multiple modes.
- Lightweight and compact design.
Cons:
- Requires periodic charging to maintain battery health.
What’s In The Box:
- S ZEVZO ET03 Jump Starter.
- Smart jumper cables.
- USB Type-C charging cable.
- Storage case.
- User manual.
Buying Guide for Lithium-Ion Jump Starters
Choosing the right lithium-ion jump starter can significantly impact your vehicle’s reliability and overall convenience. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you select the best model suited to your needs.
1. Understand Power Output and Battery Capacity
- Peak Output: This is the maximum power the jump starter can deliver. It’s crucial to determine whether the device can start your vehicle.
- For Standard Cars: A peak output of 1000 to 1500 amps is usually sufficient.
- For Larger Vehicles: If you drive a truck, RV, or vehicle with a high-displacement engine, look for models with higher outputs, such as 3000 amps or more.
- Battery Capacity: Measured in milliamp-hours (mAh), this indicates how much energy the jump starter can store and deliver.
- Higher Capacity: A battery with a capacity of 20,000 mAh can provide more jump-starts and has a longer battery life than lower capacities.
2. Evaluate Additional Features
- Power Bank Functionality: Many jump starters double as power banks. This feature allows you to charge electronic devices like smartphones and tablets.
- USB Ports: Look for models with multiple USB ports and high charging speeds for maximum versatility.
- Built-In Flashlight: A built-in LED flashlight is handy, especially in emergencies.
- Brightness: Check the lumens’ rating to ensure adequate illumination is provided. Options range from 100 to 600 lumens.
- Modes: Some models offer additional modes like strobe and SOS, which can be particularly useful in distress situations.
3. Consider Safety Features
- Protection Systems: Safety is paramount when dealing with high-capacity batteries. Ensure the jump starter has built-in protection mechanisms such as:
- Reverse Polarity Protection: Prevents damage if you accidentally disconnect the cables.
- Overcharge Protection: Prevents the battery from overcharging, which can be dangerous.
- Spark-Proof Technology: Reduces the risk of sparks when connecting the jump starter to your vehicle’s battery.
- Durability: A robust design with heavy-duty clamps and a rugged casing is essential for reliability.
- Weather Resistance: Some models offer water-resistant or weatherproof designs, making them suitable for various environmental conditions.
4. Assess Size and Portability
- Dimensions and Weight: The size and weight of the jump starter affect its portability.
- Compact Models: Ideal for easy storage and handling, particularly in tight spaces like glove compartments.
- Larger Models: While they may offer more power, ensure they are manageable and fit comfortably in your vehicle.
- Ease of Storage: Many jump starters come with a carrying case or pouch.
- Included Accessories: Check if the jump starter package consists of a carrying case or storage bag for better organization and protection.
Not sure how many amps are required to jump-start a V8 engine? Learn the necessary power in our article on how many amps to jump-start a V8.
Final Words:
Choosing the right lithium-ion jump starter depends on your specific needs. Whether you need a high-powered model like the GOOLOO GP3000 or a compact option like the NOCO Boost Plus GB40, understanding critical features like peak output, battery capacity, and safety will help you make an informed decision. With these insights, you can select a jump starter that offers reliable performance and peace of mind. Safe travels!