Jump starters have become an essential tool for many drivers, often the difference between being stranded on the roadside and getting back on the road. Whether it’s a dead battery in a V6, a big block V8, or even a diesel engine, the market is flooded with options that promise to deliver. But how do they truly stack up? In this comprehensive test, we dive into the performance, versatility, and real-world usability of some of the most popular jump starters on the market, plus a few surprises.
Todd from Project Farm takes the wheel for this rigorous review. Known for his no-nonsense, unbiased testing, Todd ensures every product is evaluated fairly. “I bought every jump starter featured in this video to keep things impartial,” Todd emphasizes. This approach not only guarantees an honest evaluation but also reflects his commitment to helping viewers make informed purchasing decisions.
The lineup includes household names like NOCO and GOOLOO, alongside lesser-known brands such as BRPOM and VTOMAN. From budget-friendly models to premium options, each jump starter is put through a series of challenges. These include their ability to start various engines, serve as battery banks for charging devices, and even inflate a flat tire. Todd also tests a set of trusty jumper cables and a super capacitor jump starter for good measure.
The Tests
The testing begins with a baseline: starting a V6 engine in a Ford Ranger. To keep things consistent, Todd uses a set of wooden mock batteries created by his cousin, Eddie, ensuring every jump starter faces the same level of challenge. From there, the competition heats up as the devices tackle a big block V8 and a diesel engine, pushing their claimed cranking amps to the limit.
Battery bank capacity also plays a key role in the evaluation, as many drivers rely on jump starters as portable power sources. Todd uses a gadget to discharge the batteries at a consistent rate, measuring how close each model comes to meeting its advertised capacity. For those equipped with tire inflators, he measures inflation time and noise levels, adding another layer of practicality to the tests.
The Standouts
Among the contenders, a few devices shine. The NOCO GBX155, last year’s winner, proves its mettle once again, boasting impressive cranking amps and reliability. The GOOLOO GP4000 and HOMPOW emerge as excellent mid-range options, offering solid performance without breaking the bank. For those on a budget, the BRPOM and VTOMAN deliver surprising value, though they fall short in some areas.
One standout is the KeenPower super capacitor jump starter, which eliminates the need for pre-charging and performs remarkably well in cold conditions. While it lacks some features like a tire inflator, its ability to start engines reliably earns it high marks. On the other hand, the TOAN jump starter excels as a versatile option with its quick tire inflation and strong engine-starting capability.
The Verdict
After extensive testing, Todd narrows down the top choices based on different needs:
- Best Overall: NOCO GBX155 for its top-tier performance and reliability.
- Best Value: GOOLOO GP4000, a balanced option that delivers great results for its price.
- Best Tire Inflator: TOAN, combining speed and accuracy.
- Best Innovation: KeenPower super capacitor, ideal for those who value efficiency and simplicity.
While no product meets its advertised battery capacity 100%, Todd highlights the brands that come closest, such as NOCO, GOOLOO, and HOMPOW. His advice is simple: pick the jump starter that best suits your needs and budget.
Join the Discussion
Every year, Todd’s jump starter showdown sparks lively discussions in the comments, with viewers sharing their stories of how these devices have saved the day. “All the videos on this channel are viewer-suggested,” Todd says, encouraging fans to leave their ideas for future tests. Whether you’re a seasoned gearhead or a casual driver, Project Farm aims to provide insights that save you time, money, and headaches.
For the full breakdown of this year’s jump starters and to see them in action, watch the video on Project Farm’s YouTube channel here. If you found this comparison helpful, please subscribe and consider supporting Project Farm’s work on Patreon.
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