6 Best Jump Starters of 2025

This pocket-sized powerhouse redefines what a mid-tier jump starter can do. With 1500 amps of peak power, the NOCO Boost GB50 confidently fires up engines up to 7.0L gas and 4.5L diesel—making it a go-to for most sedans, SUVs, and light trucks. Its patented UltraSafe technology eliminates sparks and prevents damage from reverse polarity, a game-changer for nervous first-timers or roadside emergencies in the dark. You’re not just buying a battery booster; you’re investing in peace of mind with a tool that’s as idiot-proof as it is powerful.

In real-world testing, the GB50 delivers consistent starts—up to 30 per full charge—even in chilly morning conditions where car batteries typically struggle. The 2.7 lb form factor slips into glove compartments without issue, and the high-conductivity clamps ensure minimal power loss during transfer. While it lacks the ultra-fast recharge of newer Boost X models, its 5-hour USB-C recharge time is reasonable for occasional use. It stumbles slightly when jump-starting larger diesel engines near its 4.5L limit in sub-freezing temps, where a few extra crank attempts may be needed.

Compared to the budget-friendly GB40, the GB50 offers 500 more amps and double the engine capacity, making it the smarter long-term choice for drivers of larger vehicles. Against the GBX45, it trades faster charging and dual-direction power delivery for broader starting capability and better cold-cranking resilience. It’s the sweet spot between power, safety, and portability, ideal for daily drivers, frequent travelers, and anyone who values reliability without stepping into premium pricing territory.

Meet the speed demon of jump starters—the NOCO Boost X GBX45 doesn’t just start cars, it dominates charging anxiety. Though rated at 1250 amps, its real superpower lies in Turbo Charging, hitting full recharge in just 48 minutes via USB-C Power Delivery. Even more impressive: a 5-minute top-up delivers enough juice for a jump start, a lifeline when you’re stranded and your unit was left drained. This isn’t just a jump box—it’s an on-demand energy hub built for drivers who hate waiting.

During testing, the GBX45 consistently powered up engines up to 6.5L gas with minimal warm-up, thanks to its high-voltage architecture and 60-second timer that optimizes power delivery. The 60-watt USB-C PD port stands out, capable of charging modern laptops and high-draw devices—something most jump starters can’t touch. However, its 6 jump starts per charge fall short for frequent users or road warriors in harsh climates. It also struggles slightly with older, sluggish diesel engines near its 4.0L threshold when temperatures drop.

Against the GB50, the GBX45 trades raw starting power for blazing recharge speed and superior device charging. While the GB50 handles larger engines, the GBX45 wins for tech-savvy users who value multifunctionality and rapid readiness. It’s the ideal companion for commuters, digital nomads, and eco-conscious drivers with hybrid vehicles. When speed and versatility matter more than brute force, this model outpaces the competition in both function and future-proofing.

When you need raw, unapologetic power, the NOCO Boost GB150 steps in like a tow truck in a box. With a staggering 3000 amps of peak current, it revives engines up to 9.0L gas and 7.0L diesel—putting full-size trucks, vans, and heavy-duty SUVs well within reach. This is the go-to guardian for fleet operators, off-roaders, and winter warriors facing deep-cold battery failures. Its 500-lumen LED flashlight doubles as a work light, casting a broad beam that illuminates entire engine bays during night repairs.

In real-world use, the GB150 delivered over 70 successful starts on a single charge in mixed conditions, a testament to its 7.5 lb high-capacity lithium pack. The IP65-rated housing shrugged off snow, rain, and drops onto concrete, while the thick, high-conductivity clamps ensured zero slippage or arcing. It recharges in 7 hours via USB-C, which feels slow compared to newer models, and its size makes it less ideal for glove-box storage—better suited for a trunk or tool bag. Still, when starting a diesel truck in -10°C, its performance was flawless.

Compared to the GB50, the GB150 offers double the starting power and far greater engine compatibility, but at the cost of portability. Against the GBX155, it lacks ultra-fast charging and laptop-level power delivery but holds its own on raw jump capacity. It’s the ultimate choice for drivers with large engines who prioritize reliability over compactness. If you tow, plow, or adventure off-grid, this model delivers industrial-grade confidence in a consumer package.

Don’t let its diminutive 2.5 lb frame fool you—the NOCO Boost GB40 is a precision-engineered lifeline for compact and mid-sized vehicles. With 1000 amps of peak power, it reliably starts engines up to 6.0L gas and 3.0L diesel, covering everything from sedans to small SUVs. Its 3-hour USB-C recharge time means it’s ready faster than most in its class, and the UltraSafe protection system makes it one of the safest entry-level options on the market. For city drivers and occasional users, it’s a no-fuss, no-risk emergency essential.

Field tests showed consistent performance across 20 jump starts, even after months of storage—the lithium pack holds charge impressively well. The 100-lumen flashlight is adequate for basic visibility, though not a substitute for a dedicated work light. While it handles most passenger vehicles with ease, it struggles with older, high-compression engines or deeply depleted batteries in freezing weather. The clamps are smaller than premium models, requiring careful placement for optimal contact.

Against the AstroAI S8, the GB40 offers superior safety tech and brand reliability, though both share similar power specs. Compared to the GB50, it sacrifices 500 amps and engine capacity for a lower price and slightly faster recharge. It’s the smart pick for budget-conscious drivers with smaller vehicles who still demand NOCO’s trusted engineering. When you want a compact, dependable backup without overspending, the GB40 delivers essential performance with zero fluff.

The AstroAI S8 is a surprisingly capable budget contender that punches above its weight in both performance and safety. With a 45C high-rate lithium cell and 1500A peak current, it matches the NOCO GB50 in raw power—despite a lower price—making it ideal for gas engines up to 6.0L and diesels up to 3.0L. Its standout feature? The smart Boost mode, which detects low voltage and unlocks enhanced cranking power, a rare inclusion at this price point. For drivers seeking maximum value, the S8 delivers serious functionality without the premium sticker.

In testing, the S8 started a dead 5.7L V8 pickup in 15°C with one attempt, and its quality metal clamps showed no signs of overheating after repeated use. The 8-layer safety protection system prevented mishaps during reverse connections, and the 0.95 lb design is among the lightest available—perfect for glove boxes or emergency kits. However, its 3.7-inch height and soft casing make it less durable than NOCO’s rubberized models, and it lacks USB-PD fast charging, relying on slower standard USB-C. It also doesn’t hold a charge as long in storage.

Against the NOCO GB40, the S8 offers higher peak amps and smart Boost tech for just $40 more, though it lacks NOCO’s brand reputation and ruggedness. It’s not as refined as the GB50, but for drivers who prioritize affordability and strong performance, the S8 is a remarkable value play. If you want near-premium power on a budget, this orange underdog delivers real-world reliability with intelligent design touches.

This is the undisputed king of jump starters—the NOCO Boost X GBX155 doesn’t just start cars, it resurrects the unstartable. With a colossal 4250 amps of peak power, it handles engines up to 10.0L gas and 8.0L diesel, making it the only portable unit you’ll need for heavy-duty trucks, RVs, and commercial fleets. Its 2.7-hour USB-C PD recharge is lightning-fast for a unit this powerful, and the 5-minute emergency charge feature ensures it’s never truly dead. This is extreme engineering for extreme needs.

Real-world testing proved its dominance: it started a diesel dually at -5°C after a week of sub-zero weather, delivering 18 full jump starts on a single charge thanks to its 60-second power-conserving timer. The 60-watt USB-C PD port charged a MacBook Pro to 40% in 20 minutes—functioning as a true mobile workstation battery. The 500-lumen LED lit up a full garage, and the IP65 housing survived ice, mud, and drops. Only its larger footprint and premium cost keep it from being universal.

Compared to the GB150, the GBX155 offers 1250 more amps, faster charging, and superior device support, justifying its place at the top. Against the GBX45, it trades portability for unmatched power. It’s the ultimate all-in-one solution for professionals, overlanders, and anyone who refuses to be stranded. When performance, speed, and reliability are non-negotiable, the GBX155 sets the benchmark—no other jump starter combines this much power with this much intelligence.