However, portable jump starters with lithium-ion batteries cannot deliver high amperage for very long due to the risk of thermal runaway-a phenomenon that causes lithium-ion battery cells to go into an uncontrollable, self-heating state, which can result in fire. For units powered by lead-acid batteries, peak amperage is an initial jolt of power that the device delivers, typically for 20-50 milliseconds, followed by 30 seconds of sustained amperage, which is categorized as Cranking Amps (CA) or Cold Cranking Amps (CCA), depending on the temperature. The higher the peak amperage rating, the more powerful a jump starter is (at least initially). Peak Amperage (Current): This is the figure most manufacturers boast loudest about-but it doesn't necessarily mean bigger is better. If you have a fleet of vehicles that need some help waking up in the morning, get a portable power station.īut how much power does your portable jump starter need for your vehicle? It can be confusing trying to decide with all of the numbers and power ratings out there, such as peak amperage, amp hours, cranking amps, and so on.

If you just want one to keep in the car in case of an emergency, get a portable jump starter. The question of which kind you need depends on how you'll be using it. Portable jump starters are small and easy to store in your trunk (or even glovebox), while portable power stations can be kept in the garage for repeated use. There are two basic types of car jump starters: portable jump starters and portable power stations. Show more Things to Consider When Shopping for a Jump Starter

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