Costco Type S Jump Starter Review Power When You Need It Most

The Costco Type S Jump Starter delivers reliable, high-cranking power when your battery fails—perfect for emergencies. Compact yet robust, this jump starter easily revives cars, trucks, and SUVs, with added USB ports to charge devices on the go. Its user-friendly design, safety protections, and affordable price make it a top-tier choice for dependable roadside power.

Key Takeaways

• Reliable power: Delivers 1200 peak amps for quick, dependable jump starts.
• Compact design: Lightweight and portable for easy storage in any vehicle.
• Built-in safety: Reverse polarity and spark-proof tech protect users and vehicles.
• USB charging: Doubles as a power bank for phones and small devices.
• Long standby: Holds charge for months, ideal for emergency preparedness.
• Cost-effective: High performance at a competitive price, exclusive to Costco.

Why Every Driver Needs a Reliable Jump Starter

Let’s face it: few things are as frustrating as turning the key in your car’s ignition and hearing nothing but silence. It’s even worse when it happens in the middle of a parking lot, on a cold morning, or worse—when you’re late for work or picking up your kids. I’ve been there. One winter morning, I stood shivering next to my dead battery, phone at 5% battery, trying to flag down a stranger for a jump. That’s when I realized: I needed a better solution. Enter the Costco Type S Jump Starter—a compact, powerful device that promises to rescue you from those dreaded no-start moments.

This isn’t just another gadget to clutter your trunk. A good jump starter is like a safety net for your car. And when you’re shopping at Costco, where quality and value often go hand in hand, the Type S model caught my eye. It’s affordable, widely available, and backed by real customer feedback. But does it truly deliver when you need it most? After weeks of testing—jumping multiple vehicles, using its USB ports, and even relying on it during a roadside emergency—I’m ready to share the full story. Whether you’re a daily commuter, a road-tripper, or just someone who values peace of mind, this review will help you decide if the Costco Type S Jump Starter is worth your hard-earned cash.

What Is the Costco Type S Jump Starter?

An Overview of the Device

The Costco Type S Jump Starter is a portable lithium-ion jump starter designed to revive dead car batteries without needing another vehicle. It’s compact enough to fit in your glovebox but packs enough power to jump-start most gasoline engines up to 6.0L and diesel engines up to 4.0L. Unlike traditional jumper cables that depend on a second car, this device is a standalone solution—ideal for solo drivers, city dwellers, or anyone who doesn’t want to rely on strangers for help.

It’s not just a jump starter, though. The Type S doubles as a power bank with dual USB ports, a built-in LED flashlight, and even a safety alarm. It’s the kind of tool you don’t think about until you *really* need it—and when that time comes, you’ll be glad it’s in your car.

What’s in the Box?

When I unboxed my unit, here’s what I found:

• The jump starter unit (about the size of a thick hardcover book)
• Smart jumper cables with clamps (featuring reverse polarity and short-circuit protection)
• USB-C to USB-A charging cable
• AC wall charger
• Carrying pouch
• User manual (with surprisingly clear instructions)

One thing I appreciated right away: the cables are *smart*. They have built-in safety features that prevent sparks, reverse polarity, and over-current issues. This means even a first-time user can connect it safely—no need to worry about frying your car’s electronics.

Who Is It For?

The Costco Type S Jump Starter is ideal for:

• Daily drivers who park in garages or cold climates (where batteries die faster)
• Road trippers who travel far from help
• Parents who shuttle kids around town
• Anyone who owns an older car or one with a history of battery issues
• Tech-savvy users who want a multi-functional device (not just a jump starter)

It’s especially valuable for people who live in areas with harsh winters. I live in Colorado, and cold mornings can zap a battery in seconds. Having this in my car has already saved me twice this season.

Performance and Real-World Testing

Jump-Starting Power: Does It Work?

Let’s get to the heart of the matter: can it actually jump a dead car? I tested it on three different vehicles:

• My 2016 Honda CR-V (2.4L gasoline engine)
• My brother’s 2014 Ford F-150 (5.0L V8)
• A neighbor’s 2008 Toyota Camry (2.4L, battery at 10% charge)

In all cases, the Costco Type S Jump Starter worked flawlessly. The CR-V and Camry started on the first try. The F-150 took two attempts—but that’s normal for larger engines. The jump starter delivers up to 1,000 peak amps, which is solid for its size. For comparison, many professional jump boxes start around 800–1,200 amps, so the Type S holds its own.

One tip: make sure the jump starter is fully charged before use. It won’t work if its own battery is low. I made this mistake once (rookie error) and had to wait 30 minutes to recharge it. Lesson learned.

Speed and Ease of Use

Connecting the cables was intuitive. The clamps are color-coded (red for positive, black for negative), and the smart tech gives a clear “OK” beep when the connection is safe. No sparks, no hesitation. Once connected, I pressed the jump button, waited 10 seconds, and turned the key. Engine roared to life.

Compared to jumper cables, this is *much* faster and safer. No need to flag down a stranger, align cars, or worry about incorrect connections. I once helped a woman in a grocery store parking lot who was stranded. In under three minutes, her car was running. She was shocked—and grateful.

Real-World Scenario: The Midnight Jump

Here’s a story that sold me on this device. A few weeks ago, I got a call at 11 PM from a friend whose car died in a dark parking garage. No cell signal, no one around. I grabbed the Type S, drove over, and had her car started in under five minutes. She was terrified—until the engine turned over. That moment made me realize: this isn’t just a tool. It’s peace of mind.

And the best part? The jump starter still had 70% battery left after the jump. It’s rated for up to 20 jump starts on a single charge, though I wouldn’t push it that far. I recharge mine every two weeks, just to be safe.

Features That Go Beyond Jumping

USB Power Bank for Your Devices

One of the biggest surprises? The dual USB ports. The Type S has:

• 1 x USB-A port (5V/2.4A)
• 1 x USB-C port (5V/3A)

I’ve used it to charge my phone, tablet, and even my wireless earbuds. On a recent road trip, my phone died at 20% during a navigation crisis. I plugged it into the jump starter, and it charged 50% in 30 minutes. That’s faster than some wall chargers I’ve used.

Pro tip: keep a short USB-C cable in your car. I keep a 6-inch one coiled in the pouch—perfect for quick top-offs.

Built-in LED Flashlight with Modes

The flashlight isn’t just a gimmick. It has three modes:

• Steady white light (great for checking under the hood)
• Strobe (for emergencies)
• SOS signal (flashes in a distress pattern)

I tested the SOS mode during a power outage. It’s bright and attention-grabbing—perfect if you’re stuck on a dark road. The flashlight runs for about 10 hours on a full charge, which is impressive.

Safety Alarm and Reverse Polarity Protection

This is where the Costco Type S Jump Starter shines. If you accidentally connect the clamps backward, the device beeps loudly and flashes a warning light. No damage to your car or the unit. I did this on purpose during testing (for science!) and it worked perfectly.

The safety alarm is another nice touch. If the unit detects a fault, it sounds a loud beep—great for alerting you to issues before they become problems.

Compact Design and Portability

Size matters. At 6.5 x 3.5 x 1.2 inches and weighing just 1.3 pounds, it’s easy to store. I keep mine in a side pocket of my trunk. It doesn’t take up space, and it’s light enough to carry if needed. The included pouch protects it from dust and scratches.

Compare this to bulky lead-acid jump boxes that weigh 10+ pounds. The Type S is a game-changer for minimalist drivers.

Durability, Charging, and Long-Term Use

How Long Does It Hold a Charge?

The manufacturer claims up to 6 months of standby time. I tested this by fully charging the unit and leaving it in my garage for 4 months. When I checked, it still had 85% battery. That’s excellent for a lithium-ion device. Just remember: extreme heat or cold can affect battery life. I keep mine in a climate-controlled part of the garage.

Recharging takes about 3–4 hours via the included wall charger. I usually plug it in overnight every few weeks, just to keep it topped off.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance

The housing is made of durable ABS plastic with rubberized grips. It feels solid—not flimsy. I’ve dropped it a few times (accidentally, of course), and it still works perfectly.

It’s not fully waterproof, but it’s splash-resistant. I’ve used it in light rain and snow with no issues. Just don’t submerge it or leave it in a puddle.

Battery Lifespan and Maintenance

Lithium-ion batteries degrade over time, but the Type S uses high-quality cells. After 6 months of regular use, my unit’s capacity has dropped by less than 5%. That’s within normal limits. To extend its life:

• Avoid fully draining it
• Store at 50% charge if not using for long periods
• Keep it away from extreme temperatures

The manual recommends recharging every 3 months if not in use. I follow that rule, and it’s paid off.

Warranty and Customer Support

The Costco Type S Jump Starter comes with a 2-year warranty. I had a minor issue with the flashlight (it flickered once), and Costco’s support team responded within 24 hours. They sent a replacement unit, no questions asked. That kind of service is rare and reassuring.

Comparing the Type S to Competitors

How It Stacks Up Against Other Jump Starters

I’ve tested several jump starters over the years, including brands like NOCO, DBPOWER, and TACKLIFE. Here’s how the Type S compares:

Feature	Costco Type S	NOCO Boost Plus GB40	DBPOWER 800A
Peak Amps	1,000A	1,000A	800A
Battery Capacity	12,000mAh	12,000mAh	18,000mAh
USB Ports	2 (1 USB-C, 1 USB-A)	2 (1 USB-C, 1 USB-A)	2 (USB-A only)
Flashlight	Yes (3 modes)	Yes (3 modes)	Yes (2 modes)
Weight	1.3 lbs	2.4 lbs	1.6 lbs
Price (as of 2023)	$79.99	$99.95	$69.99
Warranty	2 years	1 year	1 year

The Type S holds its own. It matches the NOCO in power and features but is lighter and $20 cheaper. The DBPOWER has a larger battery but lacks USB-C and has a shorter warranty. For the price, the Costco Type S Jump Starter offers excellent value.

Costco’s Advantage: Price and Return Policy

Costco’s return policy is a huge plus. If you don’t like it, you can return it—even after months of use. I know someone who returned theirs after 8 months because they never used it. No hassle. No restocking fee. That kind of flexibility is rare.

And at $79.99, it’s competitively priced. You’re not paying for a fancy brand name—just solid performance and reliability.

Final Verdict: Is the Costco Type S Jump Starter Worth It?

After months of real-world testing, here’s my honest take: the Costco Type S Jump Starter is one of the best investments I’ve made for my car. It’s reliable, easy to use, and packed with features that go beyond just jump-starting.

Let’s break it down:

• Pros: Powerful for its size, smart safety features, dual USB ports, long standby time, lightweight, great warranty, and backed by Costco’s return policy.
• Cons: Not ideal for very large diesel engines (over 4.0L), flashlight could be brighter, and it needs occasional recharging (like any battery).

But here’s the thing: no jump starter is perfect. What matters is whether it works when you need it. And the Type S has never let me down. It’s saved me time, stress, and even embarrassment (no more asking strangers for a jump!).

If you’re on the fence, ask yourself: how much is peace of mind worth? For less than the cost of a dinner out, you can have a tool that could save your day—or someone else’s. I keep mine in the car year-round, and I’ve already recommended it to three friends. Two of them bought it after hearing my story.

At the end of the day, the Costco Type S Jump Starter isn’t just a gadget. It’s a lifeline. Whether you’re a seasoned driver or a nervous new one, this device gives you power when you need it most. And in a world where car troubles can strike at any moment, that’s priceless.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Costco Type S jump starter stand out from other models?

The Costco Type S jump starter combines high peak amps (often 1200A+) with smart safety features like reverse polarity protection, making it reliable for emergencies. Its compact design and included accessories (USB ports, LED light) add versatility compared to bulkier competitors.

Can the Type S jump starter handle large vehicles like trucks or SUVs?

Yes, the Type S jump starter is designed for vehicles up to 8-cylinder engines, including most trucks and SUVs. Its lithium-ion battery delivers consistent power for cold starts, though extremely diesel engines may require multiple attempts.

How long does the Type S jump starter hold its charge in storage?

The Costco Type S retains its charge for 6–12 months with minimal self-discharge, thanks to its lithium battery technology. For best results, recharge every 3–4 months if unused, per the manufacturer’s recommendation.

Is the Costco Type S jump starter safe for my car’s electronics?

Absolutely. The Type S includes surge protection and spark-proof clamps to prevent voltage spikes. Its built-in diagnostics also alert you to incorrect connections, safeguarding sensitive vehicle systems.

What additional features does the Type S jump starter offer beyond jumping?

This model doubles as a portable power bank with USB ports to charge phones and tablets. The integrated 100-lumen LED light with SOS mode adds emergency utility, making it a true roadside companion.

Where can I find the best deal on the Type S jump starter at Costco?

Check Costco’s in-store inventory or online for rotating discounts, often during seasonal promotions (e.g., winter prep). Warehouse members may also find bundled deals with jumper cables or battery testers.