The Best Budget Jump Starters in 2025
- Darren Holt
- Jul 14, 2025
- 3 min read
Let’s face it—car batteries die at the worst possible moment. Whether it’s a frozen morning on your way to work or after leaving your headlights on for a bit too long at the shops, a flat battery is a pain. That’s where a decent jump starter can save your day—and your breakdown cover fee.
In 2025, jump starters have come a long way from bulky cables and relying on a good Samaritan. Modern kits are portable, easy to use, and affordable—if you know where to look. This guide rounds up the best budget-friendly jump starters that don’t cut corners. These are picks that deliver reliability, value, and peace of mind—without wrecking your wallet.
Why Every Driver Needs a Jump Starter
A portable jump starter is your car’s insurance policy against surprise battery failure. You don’t need another vehicle to get started, and most models are now small enough to stash in your glove box or boot. Some even double as power banks for phones and laptops—handy when you're stuck waiting for recovery or camping off-grid.
Key features to look for:
Peak amps: Enough cranking power for your car type (at least 600A for petrol, 1000A for diesel).
Battery capacity: Measured in mAh, affects how many jumps you can get per charge.
Safety tech: Reverse polarity, spark-proof clamps, and overcharge protection.
Portability: Lightweight, compact, and preferably with a case.
Top 5 Budget Jump Starters for 2025
Here’s our shortlist of the best cheap jump starters this year that balance affordability, performance, and durability.
1. NOCO Boost Plus GB40
Price: ~£99
Best for: Overall value and reliability
The NOCO GB40 has built a reputation for being robust and dead simple to use. With 1000 peak amps, it handles most petrol engines up to 6 litres and diesels up to 3 litres. It comes with safety features galore and doubles as a power bank. While it’s just under the £100 mark, its performance justifies the price for budget-minded buyers who still want quality.
1000A, safe, compact
Charges USB devices
A tad pricier than others here
2. Ring Automotive RPPL300
Price: ~£69
Best for: UK-focused reliability
Ring Automotive, a UK-based brand, offers a compact unit perfect for small to mid-size vehicles. The RPPL300 delivers 600A, includes smart clamps, and is small enough for glove compartments. It’s ideal for city drivers and weekend warriors alike.
Budget-friendly and made for UK conditions
Clear LED indicators
Not powerful enough for large diesels
3. Arteck Car Jump Starter (800A)
Price: ~£55
Best for: Ultra-budget pick
At under £60, Arteck’s 800A model is the best bang-for-buck for light vehicles. It can start up to 4.0L petrol or 2.5L diesel cars and even features a flashlight and USB ports. While build quality isn’t premium, it does the job in a pinch.
Cheapest on the list
LED torch and charger built-in
Lower durability with repeated use
4. Halfords Advanced Lithium Jump Starter
Price: ~£85
Best for: Brick-and-mortar support
Want the reassurance of in-store returns? Halfords offers a smartly packaged lithium jump starter with 900A peak and an integrated torch. It’s ideal if you want to grab one on the high street without waiting for delivery.
Trusted UK retailer
Decent mid-range spec
Slightly bulkier than online-only rivals
5. Tacklife T8 Pro 1200A
Price: ~£89
Best for: Power and extra features
This heavy-duty option covers larger engines and throws in a compass, emergency light, and rugged carry case. The T8 Pro is ideal for anyone driving older motors that are a bit temperamental or for those planning road trips and want added backup.
Works on big engines
Bonus extras for emergencies
Bulkier and takes longer to charge
Final Thoughts
If you're looking for a balance of value, power, and peace of mind, the NOCO Boost Plus GB40 still tops the chart. But if your budget is tight and your needs are modest, the Arteck 800A proves you don’t need to splash out to stay covered.
No matter your pick, the key takeaway is this: a one-time spend on a good jump starter is far cheaper than paying for roadside assistance, missing work, or flagging someone down on a rainy B-road.
Darren Holt
Cost-Savvy Gear Reviewer, Best Buys Column
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