Winter can be a beast, especially when your car won’t start because of freezing temperatures. Over the years, I’ve realized how critical it is to have a reliable jump starter, especially during those icy, sub-zero mornings when the cold has drained your battery.
From compact units that easily fit in your glove box to heavy-duty options capable of jump-starting larger engines, I’ve pulled together a list of the top 9 jump starters for 2024 that are specifically built for cold-weather performance.
1. NOCO Boost X Series (GBX55 and GBX155)
- Compact and durable
- High peak amperage for cold weather
- Built-in safety features
When it comes to reliability in extreme conditions, the NOCO Boost X Series is hard to beat. Specifically, the GBX55 and GBX155 models excel in freezing temperatures. They pack a high current, enough to jump-start engines up to 8 liters for gasoline and 6 liters for diesel. So, if you’re driving a truck or SUV, you’re covered.
One thing I love about the NOCO Boost X is the safety features. It’s equipped with reverse polarity protection and spark-proof technology, so there’s no need to worry about making a costly mistake while trying to jump-start your car. Another bonus? The built-in LED flashlight. It’s a lifesaver when you’re dealing with low-light situations, which happens more than I care to admit in winter.
2. Gooloo GP4000 Portable Jump Starter
- 4000A peak current
- Suitable for larger engines
- USB charging ports
The Gooloo GP4000 is another beast of a jump starter that I highly recommend if you’re dealing with freezing temperatures. With 4000 amps of peak current, this one is a heavyweight when it comes to starting larger vehicles like SUVs, trucks, or even boats. What’s even better is that it still performs impressively in the bitter cold.
I’ve found the USB ports on the GP4000 to be super handy. Whether you’re out on a road trip or just trying to charge your phone after a long day, this feature adds another layer of convenience, especially when the weather is unpredictable. The design is rugged but still compact enough for easy storage.
3. Hulkman Alpha 85
- Operates at -40°F
- 2000A peak current
- Quick recharging
If you live somewhere where winters are brutally cold, the Hulkman Alpha 85 might be your new best friend. It’s designed to work in temperatures as low as -40°F, which is crucial when everything else is frozen solid. With 2000 amps of peak power, it’ll start most vehicles without breaking a sweat.
What really grabbed my attention with the Hulkman Alpha 85 is its fast recharging capability. It fully recharges in about 1.5 hours using its 65W speed charger, so you’re not stuck waiting around. Plus, it holds its charge for a long time, so it’s ready to go when you need it.
4. Clore Automotive Jump-N-Carry JNC660
- 1700 peak amps
- Heavy-duty design
- Built-in voltmeter
Looking for something more professional-grade? The Clore Automotive Jump-N-Carry JNC660 is a solid choice, especially if you’re working with larger trucks or diesel engines. This unit delivers 1700 peak amps, enough to jump-start even bigger vehicles without hassle.
It’s built to last, with long cables and industrial-grade clamps, which makes connecting it to your battery easier even when your fingers are freezing. The built-in voltmeter is also a handy feature, allowing you to quickly check your battery’s status, which is a big help in those cold-weather troubleshooting moments.
5. Stanley J5C09D Power Station
- 1000 peak amps
- Multifunctional (includes air compressor)
- Built-in LED light
The Stanley J5C09D is more than just a jump starter—it’s like a Swiss Army knife for your car. While it’s not the most powerful on this list, with 1000 peak amps, it’s plenty for most standard vehicles. Plus, it’s got some additional features that make it a handy tool for cold-weather emergencies.
The air compressor is a standout feature. Cold weather tends to deflate tires, and having the ability to inflate them on the go is a lifesaver. It also has a built-in LED light for those late-night emergencies, making it a versatile tool for any winter roadside issue.
6. ET5000 with PD 60W Fast Charging
- 8000A peak current
- 60W fast charging via USB-C
- works in extreme temperatures from 14°F to 135°F
The ET5000 Car Battery Jump Starter has quickly become one of those gadgets I wouldn’t want to be without, especially during long road trips or in unpredictable weather. It’s got a lot going for it, but what really stands out for me is its 8000A peak current, which can handle all gasoline engines and up to a 16.0L diesel engine. That’s some serious power for such a compact device.
I also love how it doubles as a power bank with 99.9Wh capacity, meaning you can charge pretty much anything on the go, from your phone to your laptop. Plus, it’s packed with 10 intelligent safety protections (think reverse polarity and overcharge protection), so I can use it with confidence, knowing it won’t damage my car or itself. You can find more details on this website.
7. DeWalt DXAEJ14 Power Station
- 1400 peak amps
- USB ports for charging devices
- Heavy-duty cables
Another solid option is the DeWalt DXAEJ14, which not only delivers 1400 peak amps but also has a built-in air compressor. That makes it a great tool for anyone who regularly faces tire pressure issues in winter. It’s got heavy-duty cables too, so even in freezing temps, it stays durable and reliable.
The USB charging ports are a bonus for those of us who seem to always run out of juice on our phones at the worst possible times. I also appreciate the compact design, making it easy to store in your car without taking up too much space.
8. Avapow A28
- 3000A peak current
- Lightweight and portable
- Affordable
If you’re looking for an affordable but powerful jump starter, the Avapow A28 delivers 3000 amps of peak current, which is impressive for its price. It’s especially effective for larger vehicles like trucks and SUVs, which often require a bit more power to start in freezing temperatures.
What makes the A28 a great option is how lightweight and portable it is. You can easily throw it in your car without it taking up too much space. Even though it’s budget-friendly, it doesn’t skimp on the features, making it a solid choice if you’re looking for something that won’t break the bank.
9. Nexpow G17
- 1500A peak current
- Compact and portable
- Affordable
Last but not least is the Nexpow G17, which offers 1500 amps of peak current. While it’s not the most powerful option on this list, it’s perfect for standard vehicles and is incredibly compact, so storage isn’t an issue.
What I like about the Nexpow G17 is its affordability. If you don’t need the most powerful jump starter out there but still want a reliable option for cold-weather conditions, this one checks the boxes without breaking the bank.
Final Thoughts
Cold-weather jump starters can be a lifesaver when your car battery decides to quit in freezing temperatures. From the powerful NOCO Boost X Series to the multifunctional Stanley J5C09D, there’s something for everyone on this list.