Type S 12V Jump Starter Review Power When You Need It Most

The Type S 12V Jump Starter delivers reliable, portable power to get your vehicle running in seconds, making it an essential tool for emergencies. Compact yet powerful, it easily fits in your glove compartment while packing enough punch to jump-start cars, trucks, and SUVs—no need for another vehicle or bulky cables.

Key Takeaways

• Reliable power: Delivers 12V boosts instantly, even in extreme cold.
• Compact design: Fits in glove compartments for emergency portability.
• Multi-use: Doubles as a power bank for USB devices.
• Safety first: Built-in protections prevent reverse polarity damage.
• Long standby: Holds charge for months with minimal drain.
• Fast recharge: Fully recharges in under 2 hours via USB-C.

Introduction: Power When You Need It Most

Picture this: It’s a cold, rainy morning, and you’re already running late for an important meeting. You hop into your car, turn the key, and… nothing. Just a series of clicks and a dead silence. That sinking feeling in your stomach? It’s the dread of a dead battery—again. We’ve all been there. Whether it’s a forgotten interior light, a faulty alternator, or just the wear and tear of time, a dead car battery can throw a wrench into your day. That’s where a reliable Type S 12V jump starter comes in. It’s not just a tool—it’s peace of mind, a portable lifeline that ensures you’re never truly stranded.

I first discovered the Type S 12V jump starter after a particularly frustrating winter morning when my old battery finally gave up. After calling roadside assistance for the third time that season, I decided enough was enough. I wanted something compact, powerful, and easy to use—something I could keep in my glove compartment and rely on in a pinch. After testing several models, the Type S stood out for its balance of performance, safety, and user-friendly design. In this review, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about this handy device, from its key features to real-world performance, so you can decide if it’s the right jump starter for your needs.

What Makes the Type S 12V Jump Starter Stand Out?

Compact Design, Big Power

One of the first things you’ll notice about the Type S 12V jump starter is how small it feels in your hand. It’s roughly the size of a thick paperback book and weighs just over a pound. Despite its compact size, it packs a punch—delivering up to 1200 peak amps, which is enough to jump-start most cars, SUVs, and even small trucks. I tested it on my 2.5L sedan and a friend’s 3.5L SUV, and it handled both without breaking a sweat.

The portability factor is huge. Unlike traditional jump starters that require a second vehicle and jumper cables, the Type S is self-contained. You don’t need to rely on another driver or wait for help. Just grab the device, connect the clamps, and you’re good to go. I keep mine in a small pouch in my trunk, but it’s light enough to store under a seat or even in the glove box if space is tight.

Built-In Safety Features You’ll Appreciate

Jump-starting a car can feel intimidating, especially if you’ve never done it before. The last thing you want is sparks flying or damaging your vehicle’s electronics. The Type S addresses this with several smart safety features:

• Reverse polarity protection: If you accidentally connect the clamps backward, the device won’t activate. A red LED light flashes to warn you, and it won’t send power until the connection is correct.
• Spark-proof technology: No more worrying about sparks when connecting the clamps. The Type S uses a safe, low-voltage connection method that eliminates the risk of ignition.
• Short-circuit and overload protection: If the device senses a fault in the circuit, it automatically shuts down to prevent damage.

These features gave me the confidence to jump-start my car even when I was alone and unsure about the process. It’s like having a safety net built into the tool.

More Than Just a Jump Starter

The Type S isn’t a one-trick pony. It doubles as a portable power bank with two USB-A ports (one 5V/2A, one 5V/1A) and a 12V/10A DC outlet. I’ve used it to charge my phone during road trips, power a small camping fan, and even run a portable air compressor for my bike tires. The 12V outlet is especially handy for powering car accessories like coolers, dash cams, or tire inflators.

On a recent camping trip, my friend’s phone died while navigating. I pulled out the Type S, connected his charger, and had his phone back at 50% in under an hour. It’s these little conveniences that make the device worth its weight in gold.

Real-World Performance: Does It Live Up to the Hype?

Jump-Starting in Cold Weather

Batteries lose capacity in cold weather, and so do jump starters—but the Type S held up surprisingly well during a winter test. On a -5°C (23°F) morning, my car battery was completely dead. I connected the Type S, waited a minute (as recommended in the manual), and turned the key. The engine roared to life on the first try.

One tip: If you’re dealing with extreme cold, let the device warm up in your car for a few minutes before use. Lithium-ion batteries perform better at room temperature, and even a short warm-up can make a difference. I also noticed that the Type S has a “cold mode” setting (activated by holding the power button for 3 seconds), which optimizes the output for low temperatures. It’s a small but thoughtful addition.

Multiple Jumps on a Single Charge

The manufacturer claims the Type S can deliver up to 20 jump starts on a full charge. In my experience, this holds true—but with a caveat. The number of jumps depends on:

• The size of your vehicle’s engine (smaller engines require less power).
• How long you let the device rest between jumps (it needs time to cool down).
• The condition of your battery (a completely dead battery may require more power than a slightly drained one).

I managed to jump-start three cars in one weekend (two sedans and a compact SUV) without recharging the Type S. After that, it still had about 30% battery left. Just remember to recharge it every few months, even if you don’t use it. Lithium batteries degrade over time when left uncharged.

Ease of Use: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s how I use the Type S when my car won’t start:

1. Turn off all electronics: Lights, radio, AC—anything that draws power.
2. Connect the clamps: Red to positive (+) on the battery, black to a grounded metal point (like a bolt or bracket).
3. Power on the device: Press the power button. The LED screen shows the battery level.
4. Wait 1-2 minutes: This gives the device time to stabilize the connection.
5. Start the engine: Turn the key. If it doesn’t start, wait 30 seconds and try again.
6. Disconnect and recharge: Once the car is running, remove the clamps and recharge the Type S as soon as possible.

The process takes less than 5 minutes, and the clear LED indicators make it foolproof. Even my 70-year-old dad, who’s never used a jump starter, figured it out in seconds.

Comparing the Type S to Other Jump Starters

How It Stacks Up Against Competitors

To give you a clear picture, I tested the Type S alongside three popular alternatives: the NOCO Boost Plus GB40, the DBPOWER 600A, and the Tacklife T8. Here’s a quick comparison of key specs:

Model	Peak Amps	Battery Type	USB Ports	Weight	Price (USD)
Type S 12V	1200	Lithium-ion	2 (5V/2A & 5V/1A)	1.1 lbs	$99
NOCO GB40	1000	Lithium-ion	1 (5V/2.1A)	2.4 lbs	$120
DBPOWER 600A	600	Lithium-ion	2 (5V/2.1A & 5V/1A)	1.3 lbs	$80
Tacklife T8	800	Lithium-ion	2 (5V/2.1A & 5V/1A)	2.0 lbs	$90

Key Takeaways from the Comparison

The Type S 12V jump starter stands out in a few key areas:

• Power-to-weight ratio: It’s lighter than the NOCO and Tacklife models but delivers more peak amps than the DBPOWER.
• Versatility: The dual USB ports and 12V outlet give it an edge over the NOCO, which only has one USB port.
• Value: At $99, it’s priced competitively. The DBPOWER is cheaper, but its lower peak amps make it less reliable for larger engines.

One area where the Type S falls slightly short is in its charging speed. It takes about 4 hours to fully recharge via the included AC adapter, whereas the NOCO GB40 can charge in 3 hours. However, this isn’t a dealbreaker for me—I just plug it in overnight after a jump.

Common Mistakes to Avoid (And How the Type S Helps)

Using a Jump Starter on a Damaged Battery

Here’s a mistake I made early on: I tried to jump-start a car with a cracked battery case. The battery was leaking acid, and the jump attempt failed. The Type S didn’t cause any damage, but it couldn’t revive a physically compromised battery. Lesson learned: A jump starter is for temporary power, not a fix for a failing battery. If your battery is swollen, leaking, or more than 3-4 years old, it’s time for a replacement.

The Type S helps prevent this mistake with its built-in voltage detection. If you connect it to a severely damaged battery, the device will display a “low voltage” warning and refuse to activate. It’s a small but crucial safety feature.

Storing It in Extreme Temperatures

I once left my Type S in the car during a summer heatwave (temperatures hit 40°C/104°F). When I went to use it a week later, the battery life was noticeably shorter. Lithium-ion batteries don’t like extreme heat or cold. For best results:

• Store the device in a cool, dry place (like a glove box or center console).
• If it’s been in a hot car, let it cool down for 15-20 minutes before use.
• In winter, keep it in an insulated pouch or inside the car (not the trunk, which gets colder).

The Type S comes with a neoprene storage case, which helps insulate it from temperature swings. I now keep it in a small insulated lunch bag in my trunk—it works like a charm.

Overlooking Regular Maintenance

Jump starters aren’t “set it and forget it” devices. To keep your Type S in top shape:

• Recharge it every 3 months, even if you don’t use it.
• Clean the clamps with a dry cloth after each use (dirt can affect conductivity).
• Check the battery level monthly using the LED indicator.

I keep a sticky note on my fridge: “Check jump starter – every 3 months.” It takes 2 minutes and ensures I’m never caught off guard.

Who Should Buy the Type S 12V Jump Starter?

The Ideal User Profile

The Type S isn’t for everyone, but it’s perfect for:

• City dwellers: If you live in an apartment with no access to another car, this is a lifesaver.
• Frequent travelers: It’s TSA-approved for carry-on luggage, so you can take it on road trips or flights.
• New drivers: The safety features make it ideal for those who are nervous about jump-starting.
• RV and camper owners: The 12V outlet is great for powering small appliances on the go.

I gifted one to my sister, who drives a 10-year-old hatchback. She used it twice in the first month—once for her own car and once to help a stranded neighbor. She called it “the most practical gift ever.”

When to Consider Alternatives

You might want to look elsewhere if:

• You drive a diesel truck or large SUV: The Type S can handle most V6 engines, but if you have a diesel or a V8, you’ll need a higher-amp model (like the NOCO GB70).
• You want wireless charging: The Type S charges via a standard AC adapter, not a Qi pad.
• You need a built-in flashlight: Some competitors (like the Tacklife T8) have integrated lights, which the Type S lacks.

For most people, though, the Type S hits the sweet spot between power, portability, and price.

Final Thoughts: A Must-Have for Every Driver

The Type S 12V jump starter isn’t just another gadget—it’s a tool that empowers you to take control of your vehicle’s reliability. I’ve used it in freezing cold, sweltering heat, and even during a thunderstorm (don’t worry, it’s water-resistant). It’s never let me down. While no device is perfect, the Type S comes remarkably close for its price point.

What I love most is the peace of mind it provides. No more frantic calls to friends or expensive towing bills. No more waiting in the rain for help. With the Type S, you’re always prepared. Whether you’re a seasoned driver or a nervous newbie, this jump starter is a smart investment. It’s small enough to fit in your glove box but powerful enough to save your day.

At the end of the day, the best jump starter is the one you have with you when you need it. The Type S ensures you’ll never be without power—literally. So, if you’re on the fence, take the leap. Your future self will thank you the next time your car won’t start.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Type S 12V Jump Starter, and how does it work?

The Type S 12V Jump Starter is a compact, portable power pack designed to jump-start vehicles with dead batteries. It connects directly to your car battery via heavy-duty clamps, delivering instant power without needing another vehicle.

How long does the Type S 12V Jump Starter hold its charge?

The Type S 12V Jump Starter retains its charge for up to 6 months when idle, thanks to its low self-discharge lithium technology. For best results, recharge it every few months to ensure peak performance.

Can the Type S Jump Starter be used on other vehicles besides cars?

Yes, the Type S 12V Jump Starter is compatible with motorcycles, trucks, boats, and ATVs with 12V batteries. Its versatile design makes it ideal for a wide range of applications beyond just cars.

Is the Type S 12V Jump Starter safe to use for beginners?

Absolutely. The Type S 12V Jump Starter features reverse polarity and spark-proof protection, making it safe for first-time users. Follow the included instructions for a hassle-free experience.

How many jump starts can I get from a single charge?

On a full charge, the Type S 12V Jump Starter can deliver up to 20 jump starts, depending on battery condition and engine size. It’s built for reliability in emergencies.

Does the Type S Jump Starter have any additional features?

Yes, it includes a built-in LED flashlight with SOS mode and USB ports to charge phones and other devices. This makes it a multi-functional tool for emergencies and everyday use.