Jump starters, also called battery packs, starter packs or battery boosters, are portable and rechargeable devices designed to help start cars without the use of another vehicle. Having one handy can make unexpected battery trouble just a minor inconvenience rather than a day wrecker.
Jump starters come in several sizes, from highly portable handheld units to more substantial tool bag-sized models and even commercial units on wheels. The handheld models can be stored in your vehicle’s glove box, center console or map pocket when on-the-go. This is why they are an ideal addition to automotive emergency kits. Cables (or leads), battery clamps and charging cords are included with the purchase of jump packs, and these accessories can be purchased separately for easy replacement as needed.
The larger jump starters and power stations are excellent additions to home garages and workshops for use on daily drivers, project cars, motorcycles, lawn mowers, boats and more. Commercial power stations are often mounted on wheels or a cart for efficient transport around professional repair and maintenance facilities. Many of the larger units are corded rather than cordless and require an electrical outlet to operate and/or charge. While less convenient than cordless models, plug-in jump starters can deliver higher amounts of current and are especially helpful for larger vehicles and equipment.
Can a Jump Starter Charge My Battery?
No. Starters and chargers have different jobs. Battery chargers don’t have the amps to start a vehicle but instead slowly restore your battery to full power over hours or days. While this may seem slow, it is healthiest for the battery. Chargers also need a direct power source, making them less portable than a jump starter. For this reason, they are usually kept in garages rather than inside the vehicle. A jump starter’s purpose is to provide a powerful jolt to kickstart a dead battery and is not meant to be kept connected for long. Often, needing a jump start is a good sign your battery is close to needing replacement. If battery trouble persists after jump starting, charging, and/or replacement, seek professional assistance to identify the cause.
Why Every Driver Should Have a Jump Starter
“After a coworker was left stranded with a dead battery I decided to get this jump pack. I’ve carried jumper cables for years, but they are only good if there’s another vehicle to provide the jump. Two months after this purchase I actually had to use it on my 6.2-liter F-250 when my battery just quit. Hooked it up, turned it on and in 15 seconds it fired up. If I never use it again it has paid for itself as there were no other vehicles around to use my cables.” ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ —Keith T. 2022
We think Keith’s review perfectly summarizes why a jump starter should be in every driver’s tool kit. They are time-savers and frustration-relievers, particularly in emergency situations. With a jump starter on hand, there is no need to call Roadside Assistance or wait for friends/family to come to your rescue. Not to mention, using a jump starter eliminates any potential electrical damage/issues that can occur when connecting to a donor car. Browse jump starters from top brands including NOCO Boost, Schumacher, TOPDON and more. New to using jump starters? We have you covered. Check out our how-to guide for using jump starters.
