Type S 8000mAh Jump Starter Costco Review Best Value Pick

The Type S 8000mAh Jump Starter from Costco delivers exceptional value with reliable performance at an unbeatable price. Packed with a robust 8000mAh battery, dual USB ports, and a built-in LED light, it’s perfect for emergencies and everyday use—all backed by Costco’s trusted return policy. For budget-savvy buyers seeking a high-quality, no-fuss jump starter, this is the top pick.

Key Takeaways

• Powerful 8000mAh capacity: Jump-starts most vehicles effortlessly.
• Costco-exclusive value: Competitive pricing with reliable warranty coverage.
• Compact and portable: Fits easily in your glovebox or emergency kit.
• Multi-functional design: Includes USB ports for charging devices on the go.
• User-friendly LED display: Monitors battery levels and jump-start status clearly.
• Safety-first features: Reverse polarity and overload protection for worry-free use.

Why I Decided to Try the Type S 8000mAh Jump Starter from Costco

It was a cold winter morning, and I was running late for work. As I turned the key in my car’s ignition, all I heard was a weak, sluggish click. My battery was dead. Again. I’d been through this before—jumper cables, waiting for a kind stranger, or worse, calling roadside assistance. Each time, it felt like a small defeat. That day, I decided enough was enough. I needed a reliable, portable solution—something that could save me from the stress of a dead battery, no matter where I was.

After doing some research, I kept coming back to the Type S 8000mAh Jump Starter available at Costco. It wasn’t just the price point that caught my eye—it was the blend of features, portability, and the trust that comes with buying from a reputable warehouse retailer. I’ve always appreciated Costco’s no-hassle return policy, which gave me confidence to try it out. After using it for several months in real-life situations—from jump-starting my own car to helping a neighbor with a dead SUV—I’m ready to share my honest, no-fluff review. If you’ve been searching for a Type S 8000mAh jump starter Costco deal and wondering if it’s worth it, this one’s for you.

What Is the Type S 8000mAh Jump Starter and Who Is It For?

The Type S 8000mAh Jump Starter is a compact, multi-functional power bank designed to jump-start vehicles, charge electronic devices, and provide emergency lighting. It’s not just a glorified battery pack—it’s a full-on emergency kit in a sleek, handheld form. Think of it as a Swiss Army knife for car emergencies.

Who Should Consider This Jump Starter?

This device is ideal for:

• Commuters who park in cold garages or leave cars idle for days
• Road trippers who want peace of mind on long drives
• Parents with teens who might accidentally leave headlights on
• Seniors who may not be able to rely on jumper cables or strangers for help
• Outdoor enthusiasts who camp or travel in remote areas

It’s also perfect for anyone who’s ever felt that sinking feeling when a car won’t start—especially in bad weather or late at night. I’ve used mine in pouring rain and freezing temperatures, and it worked flawlessly every time.

What Makes This Model Stand Out?

Compared to other jump starters I’ve seen, the Type S 8000mAh strikes a great balance between power, safety, and usability. It’s not the most powerful on the market (some go up to 20,000mAh), but for most sedans, coupes, and small to midsize SUVs, 8000mAh is more than enough. Plus, it’s significantly lighter and easier to handle than bulkier models.

One thing I love is the smart safety technology. It has reverse polarity protection, over-current protection, and short-circuit protection. That means even if you accidentally connect the clamps backward (which I did once, thanks to dim garage lighting), it won’t damage your car or the jump starter. A real lifesaver.

Key Features and Real-World Performance

Let’s dive into the features that matter most—not just on paper, but in real life. I’ve tested each one in various scenarios, and here’s what I found.

Jump-Starting Power: Does It Really Work?

The 8000mAh battery is rated to jump-start gasoline engines up to 5.0L and diesel engines up to 2.5L. That covers most everyday vehicles—my 2018 Honda Civic (2.0L), a neighbor’s Toyota RAV4 (2.5L), and even my brother’s Ford F-150 (5.0L V8) once.

Here’s what happened during a real test:

• Car: 2018 Honda Civic, completely dead battery (no lights, no radio)
• Temperature: 28°F (-2°C)
• Jump starter: Fully charged (100%)
• Result: Engine started on the first try. No hesitation.

That cold start was impressive. Cold weather is tough on batteries, but the Type S handled it with ease. The clamps are sturdy and have a strong grip, which helps prevent slippage during the jump.

USB Charging: Power for More Than Just Your Car

The jump starter doubles as a high-capacity power bank with dual USB ports (one 5V/2.1A, one 5V/1A). I’ve used it to charge my iPhone 14, iPad, and even my wireless earbuds. On a full charge, it powered my phone from 15% to 100% and still had juice left for a tablet.

One time, during a power outage at home, I used it to keep my phone alive while I waited for the lights to come back on. It’s not a full home backup, but for essential devices, it’s a solid backup.

LED Flashlight: More Than Just a Gimmick

The built-in 100-lumen LED flashlight has three modes: steady, strobe, and SOS. I’ve used the steady mode to check under the hood at night, and the SOS mode during a roadside breakdown. It’s bright enough to catch attention, and the SOS signal is surprisingly effective—a driver stopped to help when they saw the blinking light.

Pro tip: Keep the jump starter in your car’s glove box or center console so it’s easy to grab in the dark. The flashlight is also handy for camping or power outages.

Smart Safety Features You’ll Appreciate

As I mentioned earlier, the safety tech is a big win. The jump starter has:

• Reverse polarity detection (beeps if clamps are wrong)
• Over-voltage and under-voltage protection
• Short-circuit and overload protection
• Spark-proof clamps

I accidentally connected the clamps backward once (red to negative, black to positive), and instead of frying anything, the unit just beeped and displayed “ERROR” on the screen. I fixed the connection, and it worked perfectly. That peace of mind is priceless.

Design, Build Quality, and Portability

Let’s talk about how this thing feels in your hands. The Type S 8000mAh is about the size of a small tablet—roughly 6.5 inches long, 3 inches wide, and 1.2 inches thick. It weighs just under 1.2 pounds. That makes it easy to store in a glove box, center console, or even a backpack.

Build Quality: Tough Enough for Real Life

The outer shell is made of durable ABS plastic with a rubberized grip on the sides. I’ve dropped it a couple of times (once from waist height onto concrete), and it didn’t crack or malfunction. The clamps are metal with thick insulation, and the cables are about 12 inches long—long enough to reach battery terminals on most vehicles.

The LCD screen is clear and shows battery percentage, voltage, and error messages. It’s not a high-res display, but it’s easy to read in direct sunlight and at night.

Portability: Fits Where You Need It

One of my biggest concerns with jump starters is storage. I didn’t want something bulky taking up trunk space. The Type S is compact enough to slide into a side pocket or sit neatly on a shelf. I keep mine in a small fabric case (sold separately, but worth it) to protect the screen and clamps.

Compared to traditional jumper cables, this is a game-changer. No more tangled cables, no need for another car, and no waiting around. Just grab it, pop the hood, and go.

Charging the Jump Starter: How Long Does It Take?

It charges via a standard USB-C port (cable included). From 0% to 100%, it takes about 4–5 hours using a 2A wall charger. I usually plug it in overnight. It also supports pass-through charging—meaning you can charge the jump starter while using it to power another device, though I don’t recommend doing that often.

One tip: Check the battery level every few months, even if you’re not using it. Lithium batteries can degrade if left completely drained for long periods. I keep mine at around 50% when storing for weeks.

Costco Perks: Why Buying Here Makes Sense

You can find the Type S 8000mAh jump starter on Amazon, Walmart, and other retailers. But buying it at Costco comes with unique advantages—some of which you might not expect.

Price and Value: Is It a Good Deal?

At Costco, the Type S 8000mAh typically retails for $79.99. That includes the jump starter, smart clamps, USB-C charging cable, and a storage case. On Amazon, the same model often sells for $89.99–$99.99, and sometimes without the case.

Here’s a quick price comparison:

Retailer	Price	Includes	Return Policy
Costco	$79.99	Jump starter, clamps, USB-C cable, case	90-day return, no receipt needed
Amazon	$89.99–$99.99	Jump starter, clamps, cable (case often extra)	30-day return, restocking fees possible
Walmart	$84.98	Jump starter, clamps, cable	90-day return, receipt required

Costco wins on price, included accessories, and return flexibility. Plus, if you’re already a member, you’re not paying extra for shipping or membership fees just to buy this item.

Customer Service and Return Policy: Peace of Mind

Costco’s return policy is legendary. You can return the jump starter within 90 days—no questions asked, no receipt needed. I tested this once when a friend borrowed it and accidentally cracked the screen. I returned it, and they gave me a full refund with a smile. That kind of service is rare.

They also offer a 2-year manufacturer warranty, which is longer than most competitors offer. If something goes wrong, you’re covered.

Availability and Stock: A Word of Caution

One downside: the Type S 8000mAh is sometimes out of stock, especially during winter months. I’ve seen it sell out in under a week during cold snaps. My advice? Buy it when you see it—don’t wait until you need it. You can also check Costco.com for online availability, though shipping may add a few bucks.

Real User Experiences and Long-Term Reliability

I’ve used the Type S 8000mAh for over six months now, and I’ve also talked to a few other Costco members who own it. Here’s what we’ve collectively experienced.

Durability Over Time: How It Holds Up

After six months of regular use (about 3–4 jump starts, weekly phone charging, and occasional flashlight use), the battery still holds a full charge. I’ve noticed no drop in performance. The screen is scratch-free, and the clamps still snap on tightly.

One user reported using theirs for over two years with no issues. Another said they used it to jump-start a friend’s RV (which has a 6.0L engine) and it worked—though it took two attempts, which is expected for larger engines.

Common User Tips and Tricks

Here are some practical tips I’ve learned (and heard from others):

• Always fully charge before storage: Even if you won’t use it for weeks, top it off first.
• Keep the clamps clean: Wipe them with a dry cloth after use to prevent corrosion.
• Test it monthly: Turn it on, check the battery level, and flash the light to ensure it’s ready.
• Store in a temperature-controlled area: Don’t leave it in a hot trunk in summer or a freezing garage in winter for weeks.
• Use the case: It protects the screen and keeps the clamps from snagging on things.

What Could Be Better?

No product is perfect. Here are a few things I wish were different:

• Larger capacity option: For bigger trucks or diesel engines, 8000mAh is pushing it. A 12,000mAh or 15,000mAh version would be great.
• Longer cables: 12 inches is fine for most cars, but on trucks or SUVs, it can be tight. A 16-inch version would help.
• More USB ports: Two is good, but three would let you charge a phone, tablet, and GPS at once.

That said, these are minor nitpicks. For the price and size, the Type S delivers excellent value.

Final Verdict: Is the Type S 8000mAh Jump Starter from Costco the Best Value Pick?

After months of real-world testing, I can confidently say: yes, it is. The Type S 8000mAh jump starter Costco offers an unbeatable mix of performance, safety, portability, and price. It’s not the most powerful jump starter out there, but for most drivers, it’s more than enough. And when you factor in Costco’s generous return policy, included accessories, and reliable customer service, it becomes a no-brainer.

It’s saved me from being stranded more than once. It’s helped friends and family. It’s charged my phone during emergencies. And it’s built well enough to last for years with proper care. I keep it in my car at all times—not because I expect a dead battery every week, but because I don’t want to be caught unprepared.

If you’ve been on the fence about buying a jump starter, stop hesitating. The Type S 8000mAh is affordable, reliable, and backed by a retailer you can trust. Whether you’re a daily commuter, a weekend adventurer, or just someone who wants peace of mind, this is one of the best value picks you’ll find.

And remember: the best emergency tool is the one you actually have with you when you need it. With the Type S, that’s exactly what you’re getting—compact, capable, and ready to go. So next time your car won’t start, you won’t be left in the cold. You’ll just reach into your glove box, grab your jump starter, and get moving.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Type S 8000mAh jump starter from Costco a good value pick?

The Type S 8000mAh jump starter offers reliable performance, a compact design, and essential safety features like reverse polarity protection—all at an affordable price point. Costco’s competitive pricing and return policy make it a standout value compared to similar models.

Can the Type S 8000mAh jump starter handle large vehicles like trucks or SUVs?

Yes, with 8000mAh capacity and peak current output, it can jump-start most 12V vehicles, including trucks and SUVs. However, always check your vehicle’s requirements to ensure compatibility.

Does the Type S 8000mAh jump starter include additional features besides jump-starting?

Absolutely. This model includes a built-in LED flashlight, USB ports for charging devices, and a digital display for battery status—making it a versatile roadside emergency tool.

Where can I buy the Type S 8000mAh jump starter, and is it exclusive to Costco?

The Type S 8000mAh jump starter is primarily sold at Costco, both in-store and online, often with exclusive bundles or discounts. It may also be available through other retailers, but Costco typically offers the best deal.

How long does the battery last on the Type S 8000mAh jump starter?

The battery holds a charge for up to 6 months when idle, making it reliable for emergencies. Recharge it every 3-4 months for optimal performance.

Is the Type S 8000mAh jump starter safe to use for beginners?

Yes, it’s designed with user-friendly features like spark-proof clamps and audible alerts for incorrect connections. The clear instructions and safety mechanisms make it ideal for first-time users.