6 Best Craftsman Car Jump Starters of 2025

This no-nonsense powerhouse delivers where it counts—1000 peak amps from a rugged AGM battery that confidently revives dead engines up to V8 size, making it a go-to for drivers who want reliability without breaking the bank. More than just a jump starter, it’s a true 3-in-1 workhorse, doubling as a portable power station with four USB ports and a 12V DC outlet, plus a bright LED work light that cuts through garage shadows. Crafted for self-reliance, its reverse hook-up protection and heavy-duty metal clamps inspire confidence, especially for novices who dread sparking or damaging their vehicle during a jump.

In real-world use, the CMXCESM281 shines as a stationary backup—its AGM battery holds charge well over weeks, and the thick cables ensure solid connections even on corroded terminals. It handles standard sedans, trucks, and even small marine engines with ease, though it struggles slightly with deeply discharged batteries without prior charging. While not the lightest in the lineup, its compact design still fits under seats or in trunks, but remember: this model isn’t lithium, so recharge times lag behind newer tech—expect 4–6 hours to top off. It performs best when kept plugged in as a standby guardian.

Compared to the sleeker lithium-powered CMXCESM263, this unit trades portability for durability and cost efficiency, making it ideal for home garages, fleet vehicles, or as a shop staple. It doesn’t match the ultra-fast recharge or featherweight build of its lithium siblings, but it offers bulletproof simplicity and excellent value for budget-conscious buyers. If you prioritize dependable muscle over pocket-sized convenience, this CRAFTSMAN delivers more bang for the buck than pricier, feature-heavy alternatives.

For those dealing with chronically drained or aging batteries, this industrial-grade beast stands out with 250-amp engine starts and precision manual control that puts charging science back in the driver’s seat. More than a jump starter, it’s a full-time battery rehab center, delivering targeted boost charges (50A for 12V, 25A for 6V) and a 10A maintenance charge—perfect for reviving neglected marine or RV batteries. The analog ammeter and 135-minute timer give experienced users granular oversight, making it a favorite for mechanics who distrust fully automatic systems and want to avoid overcharging delicate cells.

During extended testing, the CMXCESM233 proved unmatched for deep-cycle recovery, breathing life into batteries that portable jump starters abandoned. Its AC-powered design means unlimited runtime, allowing slow, safe desulfation cycles that extend battery lifespan. It easily starts large diesel trucks and vintage 6V classics, though it demands a nearby outlet—this isn’t a roadside savior. The solid wheels and retractable handle make it surprisingly mobile for its weight, but the 6-foot power cord can limit reach in tight garages.

Against the CMXCESM253, it lacks smart diagnostics and trickle-maintain modes but wins on raw power delivery and build toughness. It’s the ultimate plug-in power wall for workshops, garages, or winter storage prep—ideal for users who need high-amperage therapy for stubborn batteries. While pricier and less portable than jump boxes, it offers superior long-term charging intelligence and durability, outclassing compact models when battery health—not just jump speed—is the mission.

Meet the ultra-portable lifesaver that redefines roadside readiness—this slim lithium jump starter packs 1000 amps into a body small enough to vanish in a glove box, yet strong enough to fire up 6.0L gas and 3.0L diesel engines. Its Pre-Heating and Pre-Boost tech makes cold-weather jumps dramatically more reliable, a game-changer for winter drivers battling sluggish batteries. With three LED light modes including SOS and strobe, it doubles as an emergency beacon, while the 2.4A USB port charges phones twice as fast as standard ports—critical during breakdowns.

Real-world testing confirms its 25 jump starts per charge claim, with recovery in just 2 hours via DC charger or 4–5 via USB—three times faster than older AGM models. It handled compact cars, SUVs, and ATVs with ease, and the soft-grip clamps stayed secure even on awkwardly placed batteries. However, in extreme sub-zero conditions, it occasionally needed a second attempt without pre-warming. Despite its size, the build feels durable, and the integrated safety features prevent reverse polarity damage—perfect for first-time users.

When stacked against the CMXCESM281, it’s lighter, faster-charging, and smarter in extreme temps, though slightly pricier. It’s not as powerful as the 1500A CMXCESM264, but for everyday drivers and commuters, this model hits the sweet spot: maximum portability, strong performance, and smart extras. If you value grab-and-go reliability and fast recharging, this lithium pack outperforms bulkier rivals in real-life emergencies.

When brute force meets smart engineering, you get the CMXCESM264—a muscle-packed lithium jump starter built for V8s, diesel trucks, and marine beasts up to 8.0L gas and 4.5L diesel engines. With a staggering 1500-amp surge, it delivers near-instant cranking power where smaller units falter, making it the top pick for heavy-duty vehicle owners. Its Pre-Boost and Pre-Heat technology ensures even deeply discharged or frozen batteries get a fighting chance, while reverse polarity protection keeps novices safe from costly mistakes.

Field tests show it reliably starts large trucks and SUVs on the first try, even after weeks of dormancy. The four-cell 37 Wh lithium battery recharges in just 3 hours via car adapter—faster than most in its class—and the three-mode LED flashlight adds emergency utility. It’s slightly heavier than smaller jump starters, but the carrying case with cable storage keeps everything organized. While it doesn’t include an air compressor or AC outlet, its focus on raw starting power is unshakable.

Against the CMXCESM263, it’s clearly the bigger brother—more power, better for large engines, but with a slight weight and cost trade-off. It doesn’t match the CMXCESM256’s multi-tool versatility, but for those who need maximum amperage in a portable form, it’s unmatched. If you drive a heavy-duty truck or live in cold climates, this jump starter offers reassuring dominance over dead batteries, delivering elite performance where lesser models tap out.

This Swiss Army knife of jump starters earns its “Best Overall” title with a 1200-amp punch, 200W AC inverter, 100-PSI air compressor, and dual USB-C ports—all in one rugged unit. It doesn’t just jump cars; it powers devices, inflates tires, and lights up campsites, making it essential for road trippers, overlanders, and emergency preppers. The 400W peak AC converter runs small appliances like blenders or CPAP machines, while the two 3.0A USB-C ports charge laptops and tablets at near-native speeds—features absent in most rivals.

In daily use, the air compressor proved fast and efficient, filling SUV tires from 25 to 35 PSI in under 3 minutes. The jump starter fired up a V8 truck effortlessly, and the dual LED work light modes provided ample illumination under the hood. With 2.4A USB-A and 12V DC ports, it keeps all devices powered, though the unit is heavier and less pocketable than basic models. It’s not the fastest to recharge (5–6 hours via USB), but the storage bag and multiple adapters enhance field usability.

Compared to the CMXCESM264, it trades some peak amps (1200A vs 1500A) for vastly broader utility. It’s heavier than the CMXCESM263 but infinitely more capable beyond jump-starting. For users who want one device to handle emergencies, travel, and home backup, this model justifies its premium with unrivaled versatility and real-world functionality. It’s the ultimate all-in-one roadside command center, outshining simpler boxes with true multi-role mastery.

This intelligent battery guardian goes beyond jump-starting with a 6-in-1 mastery of battery care, including desulfation, testing, and smart trickle charging—making it the ultimate tool for long-term battery health. With 100-amp engine starts and 30A boost charging, it handles emergencies, but its real strength lies in extending battery life through advanced reconditioning that dissolves sulfate buildup in aging cells. The built-in alternator and battery tester lets you diagnose charging system issues in seconds—no guesswork, no mechanic fees.

In practice, it excels during seasonal storage, gently maintaining 6V and 12V batteries without overcharging—a godsend for motorcycles, boats, and classic cars. Its automatic mode switches seamlessly from bulk charge to float, and the reverse polarity protection keeps connections safe. However, like all AC-powered units, it’s useless during blackouts or roadside breakdowns—this is a garage tool, not a portable savior. The 6-foot cord limits mobility, but for dedicated maintenance, it’s unmatched.

Versus the CMXCESM233, it’s less about brute force and more about precision and intelligence, offering auto-detection and maintenance modes the manual model lacks. While it can’t match the raw punch of wheeled chargers, it’s smarter, safer, and more automated for everyday users. If you want to prevent dead batteries before they happen, this CRAFTSMAN is the most comprehensive maintenance solution, blending power, diagnostics, and care in one intelligent package.