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Best Portable Jump Starters for 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need

By ShopSavvy Team

Published: May 1st, 2024

⚡Getting stuck with a dead car battery is a nightmare no one wants to deal with. Luckily, having a portable jump starter in your trunk means you can dodge that bullet pretty easily.

We've dug into the details, crunched the numbers, and tested the gadgets so you don't have to. From the heavy-duty models that can start a diesel to budget-friendly choices for everyday drivers, we’ve got a pick for everyone.

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Overall Best: Hulkman Alpha 85 2000A Jump Starter

Hulkman Alpha85 Jump Starter 2000 Amp 20000mAh Car Starter for up to 8.5L Gas and 6L Diesel Engines with LED Display 12V Lithium Portable Car Battery Booster Pack (Carmine Red)

The Hulkman Alpha 85 2000A Jump Starter is our top pick for the best overall portable jump starter. This powerhouse features 2000 peak amps and a robust 20,000 mAh battery capacity, making it ideal for jump-starting large gasoline engines and most diesel engines. One of the standout features of the Alpha 85 is its incredibly fast charging time—just 1.5 hours. It also includes a multifunctional flashlight, USB ports for charging devices, and a 12V DC plug. Priced around $150, it offers exceptional value with its blend of power, versatility, and compact design, making it a reliable all-around choice for most motorists.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$199.99 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Hulkman Alpha85 Jump Starter? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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Can the Hulkman Alpha85 jump start a completely dead battery?

The HULKMAN Alpha85 jump starter can definitely handle jump-starting a completely dead battery, but there are a few things to keep in mind. It has a powerful kick, delivering up to 2000 Amps of peak cranking power, which the manufacturer says is up to the task for engines up to 8.5L for gas and 6.0L for diesel. A helpful feature is the 'force start' capability, which is great for batteries that are really drained. From what we've gathered, plenty of folks have had success with this feature when they follow the instructions closely—so the button-holding routine is important. Still, not everyone finds it perfect. Some folks run into error codes when attempting to jump dead batteries, which might have to do with the specific condition of the vehicle or battery. For the best outcome with the force start, make sure you follow the instructions to a T—this might involve some button-pressing and timing tricks. Plus, with its safety features like short-circuit and overvoltage protection, the Alpha85 should keep your mind at ease. Overall, people usually find the Alpha85 pretty reliable and user-friendly. But when it comes to completely dead batteries, opinions are mixed. Some people have great results, while others find it might take a couple of tries or a bit of adjusting. If you're thinking about getting the Alpha85 for emergency use, it's a solid choice with plenty of power and versatility. Just be ready for a little bit of trial and error when dealing with totally drained batteries. It’s definitely a handy tool to have around.

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How long does the Hulkman Alpha85 hold a charge?

From what we've found, the Hulkman Alpha85 Jump Starter can hold a charge for a solid amount of time, though it may vary depending on usage and conditions. It's designed to deliver up to 2000 Amps of peak current, according to the manufacturer's description, and can handle pretty big engines—up to 8.5L for gasoline and 6L for diesel. So, it should work well for a range of vehicles, including larger trucks and SUVs. Our research indicates that many folks find the Hulkman Alpha85 effective, even with completely drained batteries. A cool feature is the "force start" function, which helps it bypass a dead battery's lack of voltage. That means it can often jump-start cars that might otherwise be tricky to get going. Some people have said their cars started up fine, even when the battery couldn't power the electronic components. However, not everyone has had the same success. Some have mentioned that it didn't give the expected boost, even when fully charged. So, making sure you're using it correctly is crucial. Secure and correct connections are key—loose connections can lead to errors or unsuccessful starts. Keeping an eye on the display can help you know if you need to make adjustments, like reversing clamps or using the "force start" mode properly as per the instructions. Overall, the Hulkman Alpha85 seems to be reliable for many users. It's a pretty handy tool for jump-starting dead batteries, but just remember that like any tool, results can vary. It's mostly been praised for its capabilities, but it's not perfect every time. Just make sure to follow the guidelines, and it should serve you well.

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How many jump starts can the Hulkman Alpha85 provide on a single charge?

Hey! So, if you're wondering how many jump starts you can get out of the Hulkman Alpha85 on just one charge, based on our research, it's up to 60. That's pretty solid, especially if you need to jumpstart vehicles multiple times before you have a chance to recharge it. A big reason for this impressive performance is its 20,000mAh battery. It's a beefy capacity compared to a lot of other jump starters, which means it not only handles multiple jump starts but can also charge your phone or tablet in a pinch. Handy, right? The device also has a 3.3-inch LED screen, which the manufacturer says is super user-friendly. It keeps you updated on the battery status and other important info. According to our research, the display is easy to read and really helpful when you need to get things done quickly during a jumpstart. All this makes the Hulkman Alpha85 a pretty reliable gadget to keep around for emergencies. It’s definitely a solid choice if you’re looking to not worry about getting stranded with a dead battery.

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Runner-up: Clore Automotive Jump-N-Carry JNC770R

Clore Automotive Jump-N-Carry JNC770R 1700 Peak Amp Premium 12 Volt Jump Starter - Red

If you're managing multiple vehicles, the Clore Automotive Jump-N-Carry JNC770R is a fantastic runner-up. With 1700 peak amps and 410 watt-hours of power storage, this jump starter ensures you have the power you need for multiple jump-starts. Its long leads make it easy to reach buried batteries, and the spill-proof lead-acid battery is built for frequent and heavy use. While it is a bit heavy and can be cumbersome to use in tight spaces, its reliability and powerful performance make it a top choice for professional mechanics and avid DIYers.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$153.99 at Amazon

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Budget Pick: GOOLOO 1200A Peak

For those on a budget, the GOOLOO 1200A Peak offers an exceptional balance of performance and affordability. It delivers 1200 peak amps, which is sufficient for small to mid-size vehicles. This compact unit also comes with multiple USB ports for charging devices and an integrated flashlight, adding to its versatility. While it may struggle with larger engines, at its price point, the GOOLOO 1200A provides solid performance and a range of useful features, making it an excellent choice for those looking to save money without sacrificing reliability.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$122.98 at Amazon

Best for All Weather: Noco Boost Plus GB40

NOCO Boost Plus GB40 1000A UltraSafe Car Battery Jump Starter, 12V Battery Pack, Battery Booster, Jump Box, Portable Charger and Jumper Cables for 6.0L Gasoline and 3.0L Diesel Engines, Gray 1000 Amps

Tough weather conditions can be a challenge for many jump starters, but the Noco Boost Plus GB40 excels under any conditions. Weighing just two pounds, this portable device is easy to carry and features a weather-resistant design that can handle rain, snow, and extreme temperatures. It offers 1000 peak amps, making it suitable for most standard gas engines. Additional features include a Boost Mode for quick power delivery, a built-in flashlight, and a USB port for device charging. While it may not be ideal for larger engines, its durability and compact design make it a reliable option for diverse weather scenarios.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$99.95 at Amazon

Best for Diesel Trucks: Gooloo GT4000S Jump Starter

For diesel truck owners, the Gooloo GT4000S Jump Starter is a powerhouse designed specifically for heavy-duty needs. It boasts 4000 peak amps and a substantial 26,800 mAh battery capacity, ensuring you can jump-start even the largest diesel engines. The 3.3-inch LCD display is easy to read and keeps you informed of the device's status. Although it's bulkier and pricier than other models, its impressive power output and dependability make it a must-have for those who drive diesel trucks.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$189.99 at Amazon

Best with Air Compressor: DeWalt DXAEJ14 Power Station

DEWALT DXAEJ14 Power Station Jump Starter: 1400 Peak/700 Instant Amps, 120 PSI Digital Air Compressor, 3.1A USB Ports, and Battery Clamps

If you're looking for a multi-functional device, the DeWalt DXAEJ14 Power Station is more than just a jump starter. This versatile unit provides 1400 peak amps and includes a built-in 120 psi air compressor, dual USB ports, and a 12V DC charging port. It's perfect for a wide range of uses, whether you need to inflate tires, charge devices, or jump-start your car. While its considerable weight and need for frequent recharging can be drawbacks, its comprehensive set of features makes it an invaluable addition to home garages and workshops.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$157.00 at Amazon

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