Jump starters are portable battery packs that start a car with a flat battery without needing a second vehicle. Our range covers small lithium units for petrol cars and larger models for diesel engines, and many also work as power banks with USB ports and a torch. Brands include LOKITHOR, GOOLOO, UTRAI and ANSMANN.
How to choose a jump starter
Engine size and fuel type. Match the starter to your biggest engine. Diesel engines and large petrol engines need more current than a small petrol hatchback, so check the manufacturer's stated engine limits for both fuels rather than relying on a single headline figure.
Peak current. The peak amps figure is a short burst under ideal conditions, so it is best used to compare models of the same brand. Look for the engine sizes the maker says the unit can start, and choose a margin above your own car's needs.
Battery capacity and power bank use. Capacity, shown in mAh or Wh, affects how many start attempts you get and how many times the unit can charge a phone or laptop. If you want one device for the glovebox and for travel, pick a model with USB-C output and a built-in torch. If it will only be used for emergencies, a simpler unit is enough.
Safety features and clamps. Reverse polarity, short circuit, overheating and over-current protection matter, because clamps are connected to a car battery by hand, often in the dark. Sturdy clamps with a clear indicator light make the job easier. Check that the cable is long enough to reach the battery from where you can place the unit.
Cold weather and upkeep. A jump starter is no use if it is flat. Choose a model rated for low temperatures if you live somewhere cold, and recharge it every few months even if you have not used it.
Jump starter brands we carry
- LOKITHOR: the largest group in our range, with models from small starters to bigger units.
- GOOLOO: a brand focused on portable car jump starters, with several models in our range.
- ANSMANN: a German maker known for batteries, chargers and power supplies.
- BASEUS: best known for phone chargers, cables and power banks, which shows in its starters that also charge devices.
- 70mai: known for dash cams and in-car accessories, so its starter suits drivers who already use its products.
- SANDBERG: a Scandinavian accessories brand covering chargers, cables and everyday computer peripherals.
Also in our range: UTRAI, WOLFBOX, ETENWOLF, FANTTIK and LOGILINK.
Jump starter FAQ
What size jump starter do I need?
Choose one rated for your engine type and size, with some margin. A small petrol car needs less than a large diesel SUV or a van. If you have several vehicles, size the starter for the biggest one.
Can a jump starter also charge my phone?
Many can, because they contain a lithium battery and USB ports like a power bank. Check that the model lists USB output and what power it delivers. Use the phone function sparingly, so enough charge remains for starting the car.
How often should I charge a jump starter?
Top it up every three to six months, and after each use. Lithium batteries lose charge slowly when stored, and extreme heat or cold shortens their life. Keep it somewhere dry rather than in direct sun on the dashboard.
Is a jump starter better than jumper cables?
A jump starter is more convenient because it works without a second car and is quick to connect. Jumper cables are cheaper but need a running vehicle nearby and some care to connect correctly. A starter with reverse polarity protection also reduces the risk of connecting it the wrong way round.
