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!

Portable Jump Starters  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.

Recommendations
DBPOWER 500A Peak 12000mAh Portable Car Jump Starter Auto Battery Booster, Engines up to 3L Gas and 2.5L Diesel, Portable Jump Starter with Smart Charging Port, Compass & LCD Screen & LED Flashlight
DBPOWER Jump Starter 2750A Peak 76.96Wh Portable Car Jump Starter (Up to 10L Gas/8L Diesel Engine) 12V Auto Battery Booster Pack with Smart Clamp Cables, Quick Charger, LED Light Jump Box
Voltage (In Amps)
500 peak amps
2500 peak amps
Capacity
18000mAh
21800mAh
Weight
1.32 pounds
2.6 pounds
Best Budget
Recommendations
DBPOWER 500A Peak 12000mAh Portable Car Jump Starter Auto Battery Booster, Engines up to 3L Gas and 2.5L Diesel, Portable Jump Starter with Smart Charging Port, Compass & LCD Screen & LED Flashlight
Voltage (In Amps)
500 peak amps
Capacity
18000mAh
Weight
1.32 pounds
Best Premium
Recommendations
DBPOWER Jump Starter 2750A Peak 76.96Wh Portable Car Jump Starter (Up to 10L Gas/8L Diesel Engine) 12V Auto Battery Booster Pack with Smart Clamp Cables, Quick Charger, LED Light Jump Box
Voltage (In Amps)
2500 peak amps
Capacity
21800mAh
Weight
2.6 pounds

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

Specs
Voltage (In Amps): 500 peak amps
Capacity: 18000mAh
Weight: 1.32 pounds
DBPOWER 500A Peak 12000mAh Portable Car Jump Starter Auto Battery Booster, Engines up to 3L Gas and 2.5L Diesel, Portable Jump Starter with Smart Charging Port, Compass & LCD Screen & LED Flashlight
DBPOWER 500A Peak 12000mAh Portable Car Jump Starter Auto Battery Booster, Engines up to 3L Gas and 2.5L Diesel, Portable Jump Starter with Smart Charging Port, Compass & LCD Screen & LED Flashlight
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.

What we like about it
  • Most affordable option
  • Multifunctional
  • Simple design, easy to use
Drawbacks
  • Somewhat low peak amplitude and capacity

2. STANLEY FATMAX J7CS Power Station Jump Starter

Specs
Voltage (In Amps): 700 peak amps
Capacity: Undisclosed
Weight: 10.2 pounds
700 Peak Amp Automotive Jump Starter, Portable Power – Triple 15W USB Ports, 120 PSI Air Compressor
700 Peak Amp Automotive Jump Starter, Portable Power – Triple 15W USB Ports, 120 PSI Air Compressor
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.

What we like about it
  • Functions as an air compressor
  • Moderate peak amplitude
Drawbacks
  • Heavy
  • Undisclosed capacity prevents proper power estimations
700 Peak Amp Automotive Jump Starter, Portable Power – Triple 15W USB Ports, 120 PSI Air Compressor
  • JUMP STARTER POWER - 700 peak amps and 350 instant starting amps.Fit Type: Universal
  • SAFE JUMPER - Reverse polarity alarm alerts when there is an improper connection; Connect the clamps to the battery, turn on the switch and start your vehicle
  • AIR COMPRESSOR - Features a 120 PSI air compressor to help inflate tires with low pressure; High-powered LED light rotates 270 degrees to help you work in the dark

The Best Premium Portable Jump Starters

Check out our premium picks.

1. DBPOWER G15 Jump Starter – Editor’s Pick

Specs
Voltage (In Amps): 2500 peak amps
Capacity: 21800mAh
Weight: 2.6 pounds
DBPOWER Jump Starter 2750A Peak 76.96Wh Portable Car Jump Starter (Up to 10L Gas/8L Diesel Engine) 12V Auto Battery Booster Pack with Smart Clamp Cables, Quick Charger, LED Light Jump Box
DBPOWER Jump Starter 2750A Peak 76.96Wh Portable Car Jump Starter (Up to 10L Gas/8L Diesel Engine) 12V Auto Battery Booster Pack with Smart Clamp Cables, Quick Charger, LED Light Jump Box
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.

What we like about it
  • Superior peak amplitude
  • Small, lightweight design
  • A multitude of safety features built-in
  • Compatible with many types of vehicles
Drawbacks
  • Adapter sold separately
Sale
DBPOWER Jump Starter 2750A Peak 76.96Wh Portable Car Jump Starter (Up to 10L Gas/8L Diesel Engine) 12V Auto Battery Booster Pack with Smart Clamp Cables, Quick Charger, LED Light Jump Box
  • 【 2750A JUMP STARTER 】 The DBPOWER G15 car jump starter provides up to 2750A peak current, it can start 10.0L gasoline engines and up to 8.0L diesel engines in just a few seconds. This lithium battery booster designed with heavy-duty clamps and cables, can quickly jump start all 12V dead car battery for up to 50 jump starts on a single charge. It is suitable for cars, trucks, motorcycles, boats, RVs, tractors, and more. You can easily and quickly solve problems by yourself!
  • 【 SAFETY PROTECTION SYSTEM 】 This portable car jump starter is very safe and easy to use. The all-metal jumper clamps are designed to be sturdy and durable, it provides versatile protection systems including low/high voltage, over-temperature, short-circuit, reverse polarity and jump starter time out protection, without the worry of incorrect connections or sparks. The excellent conductivity and durability can start your battery quickly and safely, even in extreme temperatures (-4°F~140°F).
  • 【 76.96Wh POWER BANK 】 You can use this car jump starter as a 76.96Wh power bank. It designed with 2 USB outputs (5V/9V/12V 18W and 5V/2.1A), 1 DC output (12-16V/10A) and 1 Type-C in(out) port (5V/3A). Can be compatible with almost all USB charging devices, such as smartphones, tablets, cameras, GPS systems, and more. It also can be used to power any DC devices and car accessories, like tire inflator, car vacuum cleaner, car refrigerator, etc.

2. Clore Automotive Jump-N-Carry JNC660

Specs
Voltage (In Amps): 1700 peak amps
Capacity: 28000mAh
Weight: 18 pounds
Clore Automotive Jump-N-Carry JNC660 1700 Peak Amp 12 Volt Jump Starter , Blue
Clore Automotive Jump-N-Carry JNC660 1700 Peak Amp 12 Volt Jump Starter , Blue
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.

What we like about it
  • Massive capacity
  • Moderate peak amplitude
Drawbacks
  • Quite heavy for a portable jump starter
  • Must be re-charge in the home
Clore Automotive Jump-N-Carry JNC660 1700 Peak Amp 12 Volt Jump Starter , Blue
  • 1,700 Peak Amps; 425 Cranking Amps
  • 22Ah Clore PROFORMER Battery
  • 46" Heavy-Duty #2 AWG Cables

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

Specs
Voltage (In Amps): 2000 peak amps
Capacity: 21000mAh
Weight: 1.47 pounds
No products found.
No products found.
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.

What we like about it
  • Moderate peak amplitude, but impressive capacity
  • Compatible with a variety of vehicles
  • Can jump-start a battery 30 times before needing a recharge
  • Recharges from 0% to 100% in approximately six hours
  • Wirelessly charges phones
Drawbacks
  • More expensive than similar models

No products found.

2. DBPOWER DJS50

Specs
Voltage (In Amps): 600 peak amps
Capacity: 18000mAh
Weight: 1.33 pounds
DBPOWER Peak 1600A 18000mAh Portable Car Jump Starter (up to 7.2L Gas, 5.5L Diesel Engine) Battery Booster with Smart Charging Port, Compass, LCD Screen and LED Light (Black/Red)
DBPOWER Peak 1600A 18000mAh Portable Car Jump Starter (up to 7.2L Gas, 5.5L Diesel Engine) Battery Booster with Smart Charging Port, Compass, LCD Screen and LED Light (Black/Red)
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.

What we like about it
  • Display screen keeps users informed of charging levels
  • Included accessories provide an overall positive experience
  • Small and easy to handle/store
Drawbacks
  • Relatively low peak amplitude and capacity
Sale
DBPOWER Peak 1600A 18000mAh Portable Car Jump Starter (up to 7.2L Gas, 5.5L Diesel Engine) Battery Booster with Smart Charging Port, Compass, LCD Screen and LED Light (Black/Red)
  • POWERFUL & COMPACT: Jump start your vehicle (up to 7.2L gas or 5.5L diesel engine) up to 20 times with 1600 amps of peak current and heavy-duty clamps and cables. Compact enough to store in your glovebox.
  • SMART CHARGING PORT: With 18000mAh capacity and smart USB port, it can fully charge your smartphones, tablets, and other devices at the fastest speed possible.fastest speed possible.
  • PROTECTION: The high quality and spray gold intelligent jumper clamps have over current protection, short circuit protection, overload protection, over-voltage protection, over-charge protection.

The Best Portable Jump Starters With USB Ports

We recommend these jump starters with USB Ports.

1. TACKLIFE T8 – Editor’s Pick

Specs
Voltage (In Amps): 800 peak amps
Capacity: 18000mAh
Weight: 1.21 pounds
No products found.
No products found.
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.

What we like about it
  • Superior compatibility, amplitude, and capacity
  • Dual USB ports
  • Friendly user interface
  • Holds charge for up to twelve months
Drawbacks
  • Prone to encountering problems after coming into contact with high humidity or moisture

No products found.

2. BASAF JX12

Specs
Voltage (In Amps): 1200 peak amps
Capacity: 5180mAh
Weight: 1.2 pounds
No products found.
No products found.
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.

What we like about it
  • Phenomenal peak amps
  • Can be used for many purposes, including device charging
Drawbacks
  • Inferior capacity – shorter battery life

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 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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