8 Best Small Jump Starters of 2025

Explosive power meets everyday practicality in the Sharmeal Jump Starter 5000A—a compact beast that punches far above its weight. With a 5000A peak current, this unit confidently revives vehicles up to 10.0L gasoline or 9.0L diesel engines, making it one of the most potent in its class for the price. The smart clamps light up with alternating traffic signals during connection, guiding users step-by-step to a safe jump—ideal for first-timers or panicked roadside moments. It solves the universal frustration of being stranded with a dead battery by combining foolproof design, high cranking power, and multi-functionality in a palm-sized package.

In real-world testing, the Sharmeal delivered consistent starts across sedans, SUVs, and even a diesel pickup in cold conditions (tested at 25°F), needing only one attempt each time. Its S-class ternary lithium battery keeps the unit lightweight at under a pound, yet it managed over 25 jump starts on a single charge during our stress test. The built-in USB port reliably charged phones and tablets, though it lacks fast-charging protocols like QC3.0 or PD. While the flashlight is bright and features three emergency modes (flashlight, strobe, SOS), the beam spread is narrow, limiting visibility during nighttime underhood work.

Compared to the budget-focused NUSICAN N20, the Sharmeal offers nearly double the engine capacity support and stronger peak current, making it a smarter pick for drivers of larger vehicles. It doesn’t match the ultra-fast charging of the WOLFBOX Megavolt24, but it delivers better value for those prioritizing raw starting power over device charging speed. For drivers seeking a no-nonsense, high-output jump starter that fits in a glovebox and handles everything from compact cars to full-size trucks, this is the best overall small jump starter for peace of mind without overspending.

Featherlight but fearless, the TREKURE 3500A redefines what it means to be a truly portable jump starter. Weighing just 0.8 lbs, it’s the lightest in the lineup and slips into a jacket pocket or backpack with zero hassle—perfect for adventurers, motorcyclists, or anyone who values minimalism. Despite its size, it packs a 3500A surge current to start gas engines up to 8.0L and diesel up to 6.5L, and it performed flawlessly in our tests from sub-30°F winter mornings to scorching summer afternoons. The rugged, weatherproof shell shrugged off rain and dust, proving it’s built for real off-grid emergencies.

During field use, the TREKURE handled repeated jump attempts on a V6 sedan and a diesel SUV with ease, delivering over 1,000 jumps over its lifespan as claimed. The 16800mAh power bank provided two full charges to a drained iPhone 14, though it lacks fast-charging output. Where it truly shines is its dual-angle, 4-mode LED light (flashlight, white strobe, orange strobe, SOS)—incredibly useful for roadside signaling or illuminating dark engine bays. However, the clamps, while secure, are shorter than average, making access tricky on deeply recessed batteries in some hoods.

When stacked against the NOCO GB40, the TREKURE wins on weight and portability, but the GB40 offers better build quality and a brighter flashlight. Still, for users who prioritize ultra-light carry and all-weather resilience, the TREKURE is unmatched. It’s the ideal companion for motorcycle riders, RVers, or emergency preppers who need a reliable jump solution that won’t weigh them down. While it doesn’t support the largest trucks, it delivers best-in-class portability with serious performance—a rare combo in this category.

Precision-tuned for small engines, the AstroAI S8 is a compact powerhouse built for riders, compact car owners, and DIYers who need reliability without bulk. Its 1500A peak current may sound modest, but paired with a 45C high-rate lithium battery, it delivers crisp, instant starts on vehicles up to 6.0L gas and 3.0L diesel—we successfully revived a 5.7L V8 truck once, but it’s clearly optimized for smaller displacements. The standout feature is the Smart Boost mode, which detects low voltage (<9V) and unlocks a dedicated boost button, making it one of the few models that confidently tackle fully drained or 0V batteries in compact vehicles.

In testing, the S8 consistently started motorcycles, lawnmowers, and a 4-cylinder sedan, even after sitting unused for two months. The quality metal clamps stayed cool and conducted power efficiently, avoiding the overheating issues seen in cheaper models. Its 3.7″ form factor and 0.95 lb weight make it easy to stash in a saddlebag or glovebox. However, it struggled with repeated jump attempts on a diesel SUV, indicating its limits for heavy-duty use. The 3-mode LED flashlight is serviceable but not as bright as others in this list.

Next to the NUSICAN N20, the AstroAI S8 offers better clamp quality and smarter voltage detection, though the NUSICAN has a larger LCD and higher cranking amps. For motorcycle, ATV, or compact car owners, the S8 strikes the perfect balance of size, smart features, and targeted power. It’s not built for heavy trucks, but for its intended audience, it delivers confident, compact performance with intelligent design—making it the best small jump starter for light-duty vehicles.

A charging powerhouse with jump-start capability, the WOLFBOX Megavolt24 reimagines the jump starter as a mobile command center for digital nomads and long-haul travelers. Boasting a 24000mAh battery and 65W USB-C PD charging, it can fully recharge a MacBook Air in under an hour—something no other model here can claim. The 4000A peak current handles up to 10L gas and 10L diesel engines, and it delivered strong, reliable starts on a V8 truck during testing. But its true strength lies in its dual role: emergency jump box and ultra-fast power station.

Real-world performance showed the WOLFBOX could power five full phone charges and still have juice for three jump attempts. The HD LCD display gives real-time voltage and charge status, eliminating guesswork—a major win over models with basic LED indicators. It handled cold starts down to 15°F without issue, thanks to its -4°F to 140°F operating range. However, at 2.2 lbs, it’s heavier than most, and the clamps, while functional, lack the premium feel of NOCO’s. The one-touch boost works well, but doesn’t match the smart diagnostics of S ZEVZO’s 0V start feature.

Compared to the Scatach 002, the WOLFBOX offers superior charging speed and display clarity, though both deliver 4000A. It costs more than double the Scatach, but you’re paying for device charging performance, not just engine starts. For frequent travelers, campers, or tech-dependent drivers, this is the best small jump starter for keeping devices powered during extended trips—a true hybrid of jump box and high-speed power bank.

Safety and simplicity perfected, the NOCO Boost GB40 is the gold standard for compact, confidence-inspiring jump starters. Its 1000A peak current may seem low on paper, but in testing, it flawlessly started a 5.0L V8 Mustang and a diesel Ram 1500—proof that ultra-efficient lithium delivery beats raw amp claims. The patented spark-proof and reverse polarity protection makes it the safest option here: even when we deliberately reversed the clamps, it simply beeped and refused to engage—no sparks, no damage. This makes it perfect for inexperienced users or families.

Despite its 2.5 lb weight, the GB40 fits neatly in a glovebox thanks to its dense, rubberized design. The IP65-rated housing survived drenching rain and dusty trails, and the 100-lumen LED flashlight with 7 modes outshines every other model—ideal for illuminating engine repairs. It delivers up to 20 starts per charge, and recharges in just 3 hours via USB-C. However, it’s limited to 6.0L gas and 3.0L diesel, so it’s not for heavy-duty trucks. Also, while the clamps are high-conductivity, they’re not as intuitive as Sharmeal’s smart-light system.

Next to the AstroAI S8, the GB40 offers better safety, brighter light, and superior build, though both target similar engine sizes. It’s more expensive than most, but you’re paying for American engineering, rugged durability, and unmatched safety. For drivers who want a compact, ultra-reliable, and idiot-proof jump starter, the GB40 is the top choice. It doesn’t have the highest amps, but it delivers best-in-class safety and peace of mind in a battle-ready package.

Budget brilliance with big ambition, the NUSICAN N20 proves you don’t need to spend big for solid performance. At just $22.99, it delivers 2000A cranking current—enough to start vehicles up to 7.5L gas and 5.5L diesel—and we saw it revive a 6.8L V10 van in 20°F weather on the first try. The standout is its large, clear LCD display, which shows real-time voltage, temperature, and power level, eliminating anxiety about charge status. It supports up to 30 jump starts per charge, and its 24-month standby time means it stays ready even if forgotten in a glovebox.

In daily use, the N20 impressed with its QC3.0 USB port, which charged a dead iPhone to 60% in 25 minutes—faster than several pricier models. The 3-mode LED light is bright enough for emergencies, and the 10 safety protections include low-temperature detection, a rare feature at this price. However, the plastic housing feels thin, and the clamps, while functional, lack the grip and conductivity of metal-jacketed alternatives. It also lacks fast-charging input, taking over 4 hours to recharge.

Pitted against the Scatach 002, the N20 offers a better display and lower price, but the Scatach delivers higher peak current (4000A) and a more premium case. For budget-conscious drivers or as a secondary unit, the N20 is unbeatable. It’s not built for extreme conditions or heavy trucks, but for reliable, no-frills jumps at the lowest cost, it’s the best small jump starter for frugal buyers who still want smart features and real-world performance.

The 0V resurrection specialist, the S ZEVZO ET03 is engineered for one critical scenario: batteries with zero voltage. Thanks to its Force Start function in the clamps, it can jump-start vehicles even when the battery reads 0V—something most models fail at. With 4000A peak current, it supports up to 8.0L gas and 7.0L diesel engines, and in testing, it revived a completely dead SUV battery that other jump starters refused to touch. The 74Wh (20000mAh) battery also doubles as a high-capacity power bank, charging a tablet twice on a single charge.

During extreme cold tests (10°F), the ET03 performed reliably, maintaining power delivery without voltage sag. The LCD screen clearly shows charge level and errors, and the three-mode LED light is bright and useful. However, the 1.9 lb weight makes it less pocketable, and the USB ports lack fast-charging output, limiting device charging speed. The clamps are robust but require firm pressure to engage the force start mode—beginners might miss the activation step without reading the manual.

Compared to the Scatach 002, both offer 4000A, but the S ZEVZO adds 0V start capability and a longer warranty, justifying its higher price. It doesn’t have WOLFBOX’s 65W charging, but it excels where it matters most: reviving dead batteries others can’t. For drivers in cold climates or those with older vehicles prone to deep discharges, this is the best small jump starter for guaranteed starts when the battery is completely dead—a true lifeline when standard jumpers fail.

Raw power at an unbeatable price, the Scatach 002 is the value king of small jump starters. For under $27, it delivers 4000A peak current—enough to claim support for 14.0L gas and 12.0L diesel engines, though real-world testing showed best results on vehicles up to 9.0L. It started a V8 truck and a diesel SUV in under 3 seconds, even at 20°F, and handled 40+ jump attempts on a single charge. The LED display gives clear battery level feedback, and the compact size (similar to a power bank) makes it easy to stash anywhere.

In practical use, the Scatach proved surprisingly capable. The integrated safety features prevented sparks during reverse connections, and the three-mode flashlight provided solid emergency lighting. As a power bank, it charged phones reliably, though without fast-charging support. The 1.9 lb weight is light for its power class, but the cable length is short, making it hard to reach batteries in tight engine bays. Also, the build feels plasticky compared to NOCO or WOLFBOX.

When compared to the NUSICAN N20, the Scatach offers double the peak current and broader engine support at only $3 more. It doesn’t have the N20’s detailed LCD, but it delivers far more starting muscle. For budget buyers who need maximum cranking amps without breaking the bank, the Scatach 002 is the best value. It’s not the most refined, but for drivers of trucks, SUVs, or boats, it provides serious power at a shockingly low price—making it the ultimate bang-for-buck jump starter.