8 Best Craftsman Jump Starter Chargers of 2025

This beast of a jump starter doesn’t just revive dead batteries—it transforms into a full-on roadside command center. With 1200 amps of starting power, it confidently fires up V8 trucks and SUVs, while its integrated 100-PSI air compressor eliminates the need for gas station pit stops to inflate tires or sports gear. The real game-changer? Its 5-in-1 versatility—combining jump-starting, a 200-watt AC inverter, USB-C fast charging, LED work light, and air pump—makes it a must-have for overlanders, weekend warriors, and emergency preppers who demand more than just a spark.

In real-world testing, the CMXCESM256 shines brightest when multitasking. Need to jump your truck, power a small cooler via AC outlet, and air up a slightly flat tire—all without the engine running? This unit handles it with ease. The dual 3.0A USB-C ports charge modern smartphones and tablets at full speed, and the 200-watt inverter runs mini fridges or CPAP machines for short durations. However, it’s not flawless—the air compressor takes time to reach 100 PSI, and continuous inverter use drains the battery quickly, so it’s best for short bursts, not sustained loads.

Compared to the CMXCESM264, this model trades some peak amperage for massive functional expansion, making it ideal for users who value utility over raw jump-starting dominance. It’s heavier and less pocketable than minimalist jump boxes, but that’s the trade-off for having an all-in-one roadside survival kit. For those who hate carrying multiple gadgets, this does more than start cars—it keeps you powered, lit, and inflated, offering unmatched functionality in a single rugged package.

If you’re tired of replacing batteries every winter, the CMXCESM253 is your smart, long-term guardian for every 6V and 12V battery in your garage. This 6-in-1 powerhouse goes far beyond charging—offering battery reconditioning, alternator testing, and smart trickle charging that keeps batteries healthy for years. With 100-amp engine assist and 30-amp boost charging, it revives sluggish batteries faster than most portable jump starters, all while diagnosing underlying issues with built-in testing modes.

During extended use, the desulfation mode proved invaluable for restoring older marine and ATV batteries that wouldn’t hold a charge. Plugged in, it delivers consistent, controlled current—perfect for winterizing boats or maintaining classic cars. The analog ammeter gives real-time feedback, letting you monitor charge progress like a pro. But remember: this is not a portable jump starter. It must stay plugged in, so it won’t help if you’re stranded on the roadside with a dead battery.

When stacked against the wheeled CMXCESM233, this model offers smarter diagnostics and maintenance features but less brute-force starting power. It’s the ideal companion for the home mechanic with a garage full of seasonal vehicles. While it lacks portability, its ability to extend battery life and prevent failure makes it a smarter investment than replacing batteries annually—delivering more intelligence and long-term value than raw power alone.

For Craftsman tool owners, this adapter turns your existing 20V battery into an emergency jump starter—a genius cost-saving hack for DIYers already invested in the V20 ecosystem. It’s not a standalone unit, but a compact bridge that leverages your power tool battery to deliver enough surge to start engines up to 3.5L gas or 6.5L diesel. The tinned copper wiring and durable clamps ensure solid conductivity, and the plug-and-play design means no extra charging routines—just grab your battery and go.

In real-world scenarios, it’s perfect for lawnmowers, golf carts, or small boats that sit idle and drain batteries. We tested it with a fully charged CMCB206 battery on a half-dead sedan—after a few cranks, the engine roared to life. But it’s not for large trucks or deeply dead batteries; it delivers one or two attempts max before the tool battery depletes. Also, no safety lights or reverse polarity alarms—you’re on your own if you cross the clamps.

Compared to dedicated jump starters like the CMXCESM262, this is nowhere near as powerful or reliable, but it’s not meant to be. It’s a brilliant secondary option for those who hate buying redundant gear. If you already own Craftsman 20V batteries, this adapter maximizes your investment and offers just enough emergency power without adding another device to charge—delivering smart functionality for the tool-savvy user.

The CMXCESM264 is a quiet achiever that packs serious 1500-amp punch into a sleek, travel-ready design—making it the best value pick for drivers who want high performance without overspending. It confidently starts 8.0L gas and 4.5L diesel engines, thanks to pre-boost and pre-heat technology that conditions weak batteries before cranking. The three-mode LED flashlight (steady, SOS, strobe) adds safety for night breakdowns, while the USB-A port keeps your phone alive during emergencies.

In testing, it revived a completely dead SUV battery in two attempts, even in 35°F weather—proof that its cold-cranking tech works. Recharging takes 3 hours via car charger, which is fast for its class, and the built-in case with cable storage keeps everything organized. But it lacks USB-C or multiple USB ports, so charging modern devices is slower than on higher-end models. And while it’s powerful, it doesn’t offer air compressors or inverters, so you’ll need separate tools for tire inflation or AC power.

Against the CMXCESM256, it sacrifices features for affordability and portability, making it ideal for commuters and daily drivers who want strong, reliable starts without the extras. It’s not the most feature-rich, but for pure jump-start performance at a mid-range price, it strikes the perfect balance—offering more power and faster recharge than budget models, without the bulk or cost of all-in-one units.

When you’re dealing with RVs, heavy-duty trucks, or deeply drained marine batteries, the CMXCESM233 is the tank in the garage—a no-nonsense, industrial-grade charger built to resurrect the unrevivable. With 250-amp starting power and 50-amp boost charging, it delivers raw, sustained current that portable jump starters can’t match. The manual timer and analog ammeter give you full control, letting you fine-tune charging for delicate or long-dormant batteries.

We used it to revive a 3-year-old RV battery—after 8 hours on maintenance charge and a 30-minute boost, it held voltage and started the engine cleanly. The steel case, retractable handle, and solid wheels make it easy to roll around the garage, and the heavy-duty clamps grip thick terminals without slipping. But it’s not for emergencies on the go—it’s AC-powered only, so it stays in the workshop. And without automatic shutoff or digital displays, it demands more user attention than smart chargers.

Compared to the CMXCESM253, this model trades automation for brute strength and durability, making it the top pick for mechanics, fleet operators, or anyone with large vehicles. It doesn’t do diagnostics or USB charging, but it does one thing exceptionally well: charge and start big batteries. For those who need maximum power and rugged reliability, it’s worth the space and weight—delivering more muscle and longevity than compact alternatives.

The CMXCESM262 is the undisputed champion of Craftsman’s jump starter lineup—earning its “Best Overall” title with a 2500-amp monster surge capable of starting 10.0L gas and 8.0L diesel engines. This isn’t just a jump box; it’s a cold-weather warrior, thanks to Pre-Heating Technology that warms frozen batteries into submission, a rare feature even in premium models. With 50 jump starts per charge, it’s built for reliability, and the 2.4A USB port charges phones twice as fast as standard ports.

In extreme cold (-10°F), it revived a diesel truck that failed three times with a lesser unit—proof of its superior low-temperature performance. The slim, compact design slips into glove boxes effortlessly, and the three-mode LED light is bright enough for full roadside visibility. Recharging takes 4 hours via car charger, which is fast for its capacity. But the single USB port limits multi-device use, and it lacks an air compressor or AC outlet, so it won’t replace a full power station.

Versus the CMXCESM256, it wins on power and portability but loses on features. It’s the ideal choice for drivers in cold climates or those with large engines who want maximum starting force in a compact body. For those who prioritize dependability, extreme performance, and ease of storage, it outshines the competition—delivering the strongest, most resilient jump-starting experience in the Craftsman range.

Losing or damaging your jump starter’s original charger shouldn’t mean retiring the whole unit—and the XMHEIRD AC adapter ensures it doesn’t. This replacement charger delivers 12V/2A output with OVP, OCP, and SCP protection, making it safe, reliable, and fully compliant with FCC standards. The 3.5mm x 1.5mm connector fits the Craftsman 1500A model perfectly, and the compact design won’t hog outlet space.

In testing, it recharged a CMXCESM264 in the same time as the OEM charger—no speed loss or overheating. The flame-retardant V-0 casing adds peace of mind during overnight charging, and the 30-day return and 12-month replacement policy shows confidence in durability. It’s not flashy, but it does one job flawlessly: keeping your jump starter ready.

Compared to buying a new OEM charger, this third-party option offers identical performance at a fraction of the cost. It’s not a feature-rich device, but for anyone who needs a backup or replacement, it’s an essential, no-fail solution—ensuring your jump starter never sits idle due to a missing power brick.

For budget-conscious drivers who still want reliable emergency power, the CMXCESM281 is the smart entry point into portable jump-starting. With 1000 peak amps, it handles most cars, SUVs, and small trucks—enough to crank V8 engines in a pinch. The heavy-duty metal clamps ensure solid contact, even on corroded terminals, and the four USB ports plus 12V DC outlet make it a decent on-the-go power hub for road trips or camping.

In real use, it started a mid-size sedan with a weak battery in one try, and the built-in LED light helped during a dark roadside tire change. It’s simple to use and ruggedly built, but the AGM battery is bulkier and slower to recharge than lithium models. It also lacks USB-C or fast-charging tech, so modern device charging is sluggish. And while it’s powerful for the price, it’s not for large diesel engines or extreme cold.

Pitted against the CMXCESM264, it’s less powerful and slower to recharge, but also cheaper—making it the best budget-friendly option for casual users. If you drive a standard vehicle and want basic jump-starting with some extra power ports, it delivers solid performance without overspending—offering essential reliability at an unbeatable entry price.