A dead car battery is an incredibly inconvenient situation, often occurring at the worst possible times. Whether you’re stranded in a remote location, facing a sudden cold snap, or simply dealing with an aging battery, a portable car battery charger can be a lifesaver. These devices, also known as jump starters, have evolved significantly, offering not just emergency jump-starting capabilities but also features like USB charging for your devices and even air compressors. To help you navigate the market and find the Best Rated Portable Car Battery Charger, we’ve rigorously tested a range of models, evaluating them on power, battery life, durability, ease of use, and versatility.
Top Portable Car Battery Chargers: Reviews and Comparisons
Our in-depth testing process involved putting each portable car battery charger through its paces, from jump-starting various vehicle sizes to assessing their battery storage and additional features. We considered both lithium-ion and sealed lead-acid battery types to provide a comprehensive overview. Here are our top picks for the best rated portable car battery chargers:
1. HULKMAN Alpha85S: Best Overall Portable Car Battery Charger
Overall Score: 77
- Power Performance: 9.0
- Battery Storage: 7.0
- Craftsmanship & Durability: 7.0
- Ease of Use: 8.0
- Versatility: 6.0
Pros:
- Clear digital battery display for precise charge level
- High power output for reliable jump starts
- Long-lasting battery performance
- Includes a variety of accessories and adapters
Cons:
- No included carrying case for organization
- Larger and bulkier than some lithium-ion competitors
- Higher price point
The HULKMAN Alpha85S stands out as the best overall portable car battery charger due to its exceptional performance and feature-rich design. Our testing revealed that it delivers a higher voltage output than any other jump starter we evaluated. Testers were impressed by its battery longevity and rapid charging speed. The digital display, showing the exact battery percentage, is a significant advantage over less precise LED indicators. Its integrated flashlight is bright and practical. The Alpha85S offers versatile charging options, capable of being charged via USB or a 12V car outlet, and can in turn charge USB and 12V devices.
Key Specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Peak Amps | 2000 |
| Starting Amps | 500 |
| Watt Hours | 74 |
| Jump Starts (Approx) | 60 |
| Phone Charges (Approx) | 20 |
While the HULKMAN Alpha85S excels in performance, it lacks a dedicated case to store its numerous accessories, which is a minor inconvenience. It’s also larger than some other lithium-ion portable car battery chargers, though still significantly smaller than traditional lead-acid models. The price is higher, but for those prioritizing top-tier performance and advanced features, the Alpha85S is the best rated portable car battery charger available. For a more budget-friendly and compact alternative, consider the NOCO Boost Plus GB40, which offers excellent performance in a smaller package at a lower cost, albeit with slightly less power.
The HULKMAN Alpha85S offers our favorite kit in the lithium-ion-powered jump starter division.
2. GOOLOO GP2000: Best Value Portable Car Battery Charger
Overall Score: 63
- Power Performance: 6.0
- Battery Storage: 7.0
- Craftsmanship & Durability: 6.0
- Ease of Use: 6.0
- Versatility: 5.0
Pros:
- High-capacity battery for extended charge and multiple uses
- Impressive 2000 peak amp rating
- 73 watt-hour battery for significant power storage
- USB and 12V DC accessory power options
- Affordable price
Cons:
- Less effective on larger engines
- Bulky carrying case
- 12V AC car adapter sold separately
If you’re seeking the best value portable car battery charger, the GOOLOO GP2000 is a compelling option. It prioritizes battery capacity and charging versatility at an attractive price point. Equipped with a 37Wh lithium-ion battery, it boasts a 2000 peak amp rating. While it performed exceptionally well in charging USB devices – able to fully charge an iPhone up to 15 times on a single charge – our testers noted it was less powerful when jump-starting larger engines. It reliably handled multiple jump starts on smaller engines, but struggled with bigger trucks. The inclusion of a USB-C port enhances its charging flexibility.
Key Specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Peak Amps | 1200 |
| Starting Amps | 500 |
| Watt Hours | 37 |
| Jump Starts (Approx) | 8 |
| Phone Charges (Approx) | 3 |
The GOOLOO GP2000 excels as a robust portable power bank, ideal for those who prioritize charging electronics and need a jump starter for occasional car battery issues, particularly with smaller to mid-size vehicles. Its 37Wh battery ensures it holds a charge for extended periods. While its jump-starting capability on larger engines is not as strong as some competitors, its overall performance and price make it the best value portable car battery charger.
We used a multimeter to measure the output power of these chargers. The GOOLOO is capable of charging USB-powered devices just like a standard 5V 2A wall charger.
3. NOCO Boost Plus GB40: Best Compact Portable Car Battery Charger
Overall Score: 67
- Power Performance: 7.0
- Battery Storage: 6.0
- Craftsmanship & Durability: 8.0
- Ease of Use: 6.0
- Versatility: 5.0
Pros:
- Extremely compact and lightweight for easy storage
- Boost Mode for immediate jump-starting
- IP65 waterproof rating for weather resistance
- Durable and well-built
Cons:
- No included wall plug for charging
- Less powerful for larger engines
- Shorter battery life compared to larger models
- Limited features beyond jump-starting and USB charging
For those prioritizing portability, the NOCO Boost Plus GB40 is the best compact portable car battery charger. Its small size belies its power, as it successfully jump-started every vehicle we tested. The Boost Mode is a standout feature, delivering a quick power surge for immediate starts in many situations, eliminating the wait time often associated with other jump starters. Its IP65 waterproof rating provides added durability and peace of mind against rain and dust.
Key Specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Peak Amps | 1000 |
| Starting Amps | 500 |
| Watt Hours | 24 |
| Jump Starts (Approx) | 10 |
| Phone Charges (Approx) | 4 |
The NOCO Boost Plus GB40 is ideal for drivers who want a reliable portable car battery charger that takes up minimal space in their vehicle. While it lacks the versatility of some larger models and isn’t optimal for jump-starting large engines, its compact size and Boost Mode make it incredibly convenient for everyday use. It charges via USB and does not include a wall adapter. Battery life is shorter due to its smaller size, requiring more frequent charging. Despite these limitations, the GB40 remains an impressive and highly recommended compact option. If budget permits and more power and features are desired, the Hulkman Alpha85S offers a significant upgrade.
If you want the peace of mind of having a reliable jump starter in your vehicle but don’t want to know that it’s there — the GB40 is the way to go.
4. Dewalt DXAEJ14: Best Portable Car Battery Charger for Home or Shop Use
Overall Score: 60
- Power Performance: 7.0
- Battery Storage: 5.0
- Craftsmanship & Durability: 6.0
- Ease of Use: 5.0
- Versatility: 8.0
Pros:
- Rugged and durable construction for demanding environments
- Higher peak amps for reliable jump starts
- Integrated 120 PSI air compressor with digital settings
- Versatile charging options (12V DC and 120 AC)
- Dual USB ports and 12V 10A outlet for powering accessories
Cons:
- Heavy and less portable than lithium-ion models
- Limited storage for cables and accessories
- Requires recharging after each jump start
- Lower watt-hour battery capacity
The Dewalt DXAEJ14 is the best portable car battery charger for home or shop use, offering a comprehensive power solution beyond just jump-starting. Its robust design and wide array of features make it ideal for workshops and home garages. The integrated 120 PSI air compressor with a digital display is a particularly useful feature for tire inflation. Beyond jump-starting with 1400 peak amps, it can power accessories via USB and 12V outlets. While heavier and less portable than lithium-ion options, it can effectively jump-start larger engines and still provide power for devices or inflation.
Key Specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Peak Amps | 1400 |
| Starting Amps | 700 |
| Watt Hours | 21 |
| Jump Starts (Approx) | 2 |
| Phone Charges (Approx) | 4 |
As a sealed lead-acid (SLA) battery model, the Dewalt DXAEJ14 requires recharging after each jump start and benefits from monthly charging to maintain battery health. Its larger 21 amp-hour battery capacity is a strength compared to other SLA models. Its power, versatility, and ruggedness make it a top choice for home and shop environments, despite its weight. For a more budget-conscious SLA option with similar features, the Stanley J5C09 1000 Peak Amp is a viable alternative.
The Dewalt DXAEJ14 is our favorite choice for a sealed-acid battery model that offers a compressor.
Portable Car Battery Charger Comparison
Not all jump starters are heavy and bulky. Many of the top models, like the NOCO Boost HD, are surprisingly compact.
Choosing the right portable car battery charger depends on your specific needs. Lithium-ion models like the HULKMAN Alpha85S and NOCO Boost Plus GB40 are lighter and more compact, offering multiple jump starts on a single charge. Sealed lead-acid models, such as the Dewalt DXAEJ14, are more robust, often include additional features like air compressors, but are heavier and require recharging after each use.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Portable Car Battery Charger:
- Battery Type: Lithium-ion for portability and multiple jumps, sealed lead-acid for robustness and features.
- Jump-Starting Frequency: For frequent jump starts, prioritize models with higher watt-hour ratings.
- Engine Size: Larger engines require higher peak amp ratings for reliable starting.
- Storage Space: Compact lithium-ion models are ideal for limited storage space.
- Versatility: Consider models with additional features like USB charging and air compressors if needed.
The HULKMAN Alpha85S is strong enough to power a 12 volt compressor.
Portable car battery chargers offer a significantly easier and safer alternative to traditional jumper cables. They eliminate the need for a second vehicle and reduce the risk of improper connections.
Our Testing Methodology
We conducted rigorous testing on each portable car battery charger, evaluating power performance, battery storage, craftsmanship, ease of use, and versatility. Our tests included jump-starting various vehicles, measuring voltage and current output, and assessing battery longevity using a 12V air compressor. We also evaluated the usability of additional features and the overall build quality of each unit.
Our rating metrics were weighted as follows:
- Power Performance: 30%
- Battery Storage: 30%
- Craftsmanship & Durability: 20%
- Ease of Use: 15%
- Versatility: 15%
Our testers were thorough in their examination of the contenders; using voltmeters and load testers, they even went as far as to measure the current of the various USB charging ports of each unit.
Our testing team, led by experienced automotive and battery experts Ross Patton and Rob Woodworth, brought extensive knowledge to this review. Their combined expertise in 12V systems, off-grid power, and vehicle maintenance ensured a thorough and reliable assessment of each portable car battery charger.
We compare the adaptor clips for each contender, in addition to many other components, during this in-depth review.
Conclusion: Choosing the Best Rated Portable Car Battery Charger for You
Finding yourself with a dead car battery is frustrating, but with the right portable car battery charger, you can regain power and get back on the road quickly and safely. Whether you prioritize ultimate power like the HULKMAN Alpha85S, value and battery capacity with the GOOLOO GP2000, compact portability with the NOCO Boost Plus GB40, or versatile home/shop use with the Dewalt DXAEJ14, there’s a best rated portable car battery charger to meet your needs. We encourage you to consider your individual requirements and choose a model that provides the right balance of performance, features, and portability for your peace of mind.
The NOCO Boost HD GB70 trades in superfluous features for pure durability and reliability.
Investing in a high-quality portable car battery charger is a smart decision for any driver, offering not only emergency jump-starting capability but also added convenience and versatility for powering devices and more. Don’t wait until you’re stranded – choose the best rated portable car battery charger for your vehicle and drive with confidence.
The GOOLOO GP2000 has exceptional battery performance that is very handy for charging electronics.
The HULKMAN Alpha85S voltage output was simply unmatched during our assessment.
The NOCO Boost HD GB70 clamps were large enough to comfortably wrap bigger battery terminals.
The NOCO Boost Plus GB40 was just about on the 12-volt mark during our assessment.
During out battery longevity test, the Alpha85S easily outperformed the competition.
We were able to partially charge the NOCO booster via the USB power ports found on the Dewalt DXAEJ14.
The GB40 is the ideal model for those with consumer vehicles that want to know they have a jump for themselves or those around them if need be.
While it isn’t the most robust jumper in this lineup, the GOOLOO 2000 has exceptional battery performance that is very handy for charging electronics.
The lead-acid battery packs are much bigger than the lithium-ion counterparts.
The Alpha852S has a red flashing light setting to be used in case of an emergency or an emergency party.
The HULKMAN Alpha85S displays an exact battery level and a “ready” indicator letting you know when it’s time to start the car.
Carrying cases made the LI jumper types much easier to stow away for future use.
Having a built-in air compressor is very handy if you have lots of wheeled implements of transportation.
While there are many options on the market, we take the time to find out which offers the best overall performance. What type of jump starter do you need for your home?
Having a jump starter on hand can truly save the day.
