Top 8 Lightweight and Portable Jump Starters

A dead car battery can be an unexpected and unpleasant situation. Awkward, hefty jump starters are easy to leave behind at home, and when trouble strikes while out-and-about, those jump starters don’t help very much.

However, portable jump starters are lightweight and multifunctional enough to be kept inside of – and charged inside of – almost any modern vehicle. Not all jump starters work for all vehicle types, and some are more capable than others.

Let us guide you through the purchasing process to ensure that you find a portable jump starter that matches your car and your lifestyle!

  Source: thewirecutter.com

Buying Guide

• Types of Jump Starters: There are several types of jump starters. Some provide just enough juice to restart a vehicle’s battery, while others are designed to recharge that battery completely. Some only act to jump start a vehicle, and others have additional features such as LED flashlights, the ability to be used as a power bank for electronic devices such as smartphones, and powered air compression capabilities.
• How Jump Starters Work: Jump starters store massive amounts of energy, and by using either a set of jumper cables or an internal 12v input, these devices transfer that energy to your vehicle’s battery in order to get it started, allowing you to start your car.
• Things to Consider When Choosing a Jump Starter: One of the most important things to consider when choosing a jump starter is vehicle type. Some jump starters are designed to work optimally with sedans, while others may provide enough power to jump-start an SUV or pick-up truck.
• Different Jump Starters for Different Vehicles: There are various jump starters for smaller cars, larger ones, ones that have electric engines, and vehicles that use diesel fuel. Being aware of which type of vehicle your preferred jump starter is designed for is crucial. Otherwise, you may find that your new portable jump starter is incompatible with your vehicle.
• Features to Look For in Jump Starters: Some of the most important features to look for when shopping for a new jump starter include peak amplitude, power capacity, and weight. Additional features such as flashlights are not nearly as important as these three aspects.

Buying Recommendations

We compiled the best of the best in portable jump starters to help assist you in making the greatest, most informed purchasing decision possible.

The Best Budget Portable Jump Starters

In need of a budget-friendly jump starter? Check out our picks.

1. DBPOWER DJS60 Jump Starter – Editor’s Pick

Though this portable jump starter is the most affordable option included within this guide, that doesn’t mean it’s without unique, practical features. In addition to being able to jump-start vehicles with 3-liter engines ( or 2.5 liters for diesel vehicles), this jump starter has an LCD display screen, LED flashlight, and internal compass.

With multiple inputs, including a USB port, this nifty gadget can be used to charge dying laptops or smartphones when not jump-starting your car.

2. STANLEY FATMAX J7CS Power Station Jump Starter

It’s truly amazing that a product so affordable could also be so multifunctional. The STANLEY FATMAX J7CS not only pours some much-needed amplitude into your vehicle’s battery, but it also functions as an air compressor, allowing users to make quick tire inflations on-the-go.

However, the undisclosed capacity can make this option a little risky. Only time and trial can tell.

The Best Premium Portable Jump Starters

Check out our premium picks.

1. DBPOWER G15 Jump Starter – Editor’s Pick

Providing an astounding 2500 peak amps, this lightweight portable jump starter is multifunctional and completely capable. Compatible with vehicles with 8.0L Gas (or 6.5L diesel) engines, this also happens to be on the most unilaterally, multi-vehicle compatible jump starters on the market.

With a three-mode flashlight and a multitude of safety features such as over-voltage protection, this device is a delightful premium option.

2. Clore Automotive Jump-N-Carry JNC660

The hefty weight of this portable jump starter prevents it from reigning supreme. That said, it has an impressive capacity and a moderate peak amplitude. Though this model is larger and heavier than comparable jump starters, it’s also capable of retaining a far greater amount of energy than most models.

The Best Multi-Purpose Portable Jump Starters

These are ideal options if you’re looking for a multi-purpose jump starter.

1. BEATIT G18 – Editor’s Pick

Anyone searching for portable jump starters with exceptional peak amplitude, capacity, and multifunctionality should stop and consider the BEATIT G18. With an aesthetically-pleasing, modern design and compatibility with all vehicles equipped with an 8-liter engine or smaller, there seems to be very little that this lightweight device cannot do.

This jump starter can be used to charge all sorts of electronic devices, and it recharges in as little as six hours. A lithium ion battery chip helps the BEATIT G18 avoid issues stemming from extreme cold or heat.

No products found.

2. DBPOWER DJS50

This medium-range portable jump starter is compatible with vehicles up to 6.5L gas (5.2L diesel) engines. The LED flashlight is great for late-night charging, and the brightly-lit LCD screen displays how much power remains in the device, helping users ensure that their device is consistently charged.

An included 12v car charger is a convenient alternative to AC/DC charging. However, a traditional wall-charger is included as well for those who prefer in-home charging.

The Best Portable Jump Starters With USB Ports

We recommend these jump starters with USB Ports.

1. TACKLIFE T8 – Editor’s Pick

This modernistic blend of utility, practicality, and comfort is called the TACKLIFE T8. Capable of handling vehicles of nearly any size, this device features dual USB ports for both maximum input and output. While charging the device, you can also be charging your smartphone or tablet.

The enormous capacity of this portable jump starter ensures that it can be used dozens of times before requiring a recharge. The additional features, including a built-in compass, only help to make this model a more attractive option.

No products found.

2. BASAF JX12

The BASAF JX12 has an incredible peak amplitude, but an inferior capacity. Essentially, it can only provide a brief – but intense- shock to your vehicle’s battery. Afterwards, it needs to be recharged.

The additional functions of the BASAF JX12 can certainly make it an attractive option for someone looking for a portable power bank that can also function as a jump starter. Also, the high-powered flashlight can come in handy in a pinch.

No products found.

Final Thoughts

The best portable jump starter is one that matches your budget, vehicle type, and personal preferences. Most portable jump starters cost less than $100, ensuring that nearly anyone can afford to invest in this time-saving, and possibly life-saving invention.

Whether you’re seeking a multifunctional jump starter with USB charging capabilities, or a more traditional cable-base device, there’s a device that’s ideal for your needs and desires. We hope that this guide is able to help you in making the best, most educated purchasing decision.

Last update on 2024-12-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API