Black and Decker Start It Jump Starter Charger Review

Picture this: It’s a cold winter morning, you’re running late for work, and you walk out to your car only to find it completely dead. The engine won’t turn over, the dashboard lights are dim, and your phone is at 3%. You’re stranded, frustrated, and wondering how this could’ve happened—again. Sound familiar? If you’ve ever been caught in this all-too-common scenario, you know how quickly a dead battery can turn a simple day into a stressful ordeal.

That’s where portable jump starters come in—and not just any jump starter, but one that’s reliable, easy to use, and packed with features that go beyond just jump-starting your car. Enter the Black and Decker Start It Jump Starter Charger. This compact powerhouse isn’t just a lifesaver when your battery gives up; it’s also a multi-functional tool designed to keep your devices charged, your tires inflated, and your peace of mind intact. Whether you’re a daily commuter, a road trip enthusiast, or someone who just wants to be prepared for the unexpected, this device might just be the smartest investment you make for your vehicle this year.

In this in-depth review, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the Black and Decker Start It Jump Starter Charger—from its real-world performance and standout features to its limitations and how it stacks up against the competition. I’ve tested it over several months in various conditions, from freezing mornings to summer road trips, and I’ll share honest insights based on real use. No fluff, no hype—just practical, relatable advice to help you decide if this jump starter is right for you.

What Is the Black and Decker Start It Jump Starter Charger?

The Black and Decker Start It Jump Starter Charger is a portable, battery-powered device designed to jump-start vehicles with dead batteries, charge USB-powered devices, and even inflate tires or sports equipment. It’s part of Black and Decker’s broader line of automotive and home tools, known for their durability and user-friendly design. But what sets the Start It apart is its combination of power, portability, and versatility—all packed into a compact unit that fits easily in your trunk or glove compartment.

Key Features at a Glance

Before diving deeper, let’s break down the core features that make this jump starter stand out:

Jump-start capability: Delivers up to 1000 peak amps (varies by model) to start cars, trucks, SUVs, and even small boats.
Built-in USB ports: Charge smartphones, tablets, GPS units, and other USB devices on the go.
12V DC outlet: Power or charge 12V accessories like air compressors, coolers, or vacuum cleaners.
LED flashlight: Includes multiple modes (steady, strobe, SOS) for emergencies or nighttime use.
Compact and lightweight: Weighs around 2–3 pounds depending on the model, making it easy to carry and store.
Safety protections: Features reverse polarity alarm, spark-proof clamps, and overload protection to prevent damage to your vehicle or the unit.
Rechargeable lithium-ion battery: Holds a charge for months and can be recharged via AC adapter or 12V car charger.

Who Is This Jump Starter For?

This device is ideal for a wide range of users:

Everyday drivers: If you rely on your car daily, having a jump starter on hand means you’re never truly stranded.
Families and parents: Safety and preparedness are key—especially when kids are in the car.
Road trippers and campers: No outlets in the wilderness? No problem. Keep your devices charged and your tires inflated.
Seniors or those with limited mobility: No need to flag down help or wait for roadside assistance—just connect and go.
DIYers and mechanics: Handy for testing batteries, powering tools, or jump-starting multiple vehicles.

Whether you drive a compact sedan or a full-size pickup, the Black and Decker Start It is designed to handle most common jump-starting needs. It’s not meant for heavy-duty commercial use, but for personal and light-duty applications, it’s more than capable.

Performance and Real-World Testing

After using the Black and Decker Start It Jump Starter Charger for several months, I can confidently say it delivers on its promises—most of the time. Let’s dive into how it performs in real-life situations, from jump-starting a dead battery to charging devices on the go.

Jump-Starting a Dead Car Battery

The main event: can it actually start a dead car? In my testing, the answer is a resounding yes—provided the battery isn’t completely fried and the jump starter is fully charged. I tested it on three different vehicles: a 2015 Honda Civic, a 2018 Ford F-150, and a 2012 Toyota RAV4. In each case, the Start It successfully jump-started the engine within 1–2 attempts.

Here’s how it went:

Honda Civic (4-cylinder): Started on the first try after a 10-minute charge from the jump starter. The engine turned over smoothly.
Ford F-150 (V8): Took two attempts, but only because the battery was extremely drained (left headlights on overnight). After a 5-minute rest, it fired up.
Toyota RAV4 (4-cylinder): Started immediately. The jump starter had no trouble handling the load.

One important tip: always ensure the jump starter is fully charged before relying on it. I once made the mistake of using it after it had been sitting in my trunk for three months—only to find it had lost most of its charge. A quick 2-hour recharge via the included AC adapter fixed the issue, but it’s a good reminder to check the charge level regularly.

Charging USB Devices

Beyond jump-starting, the Start It doubles as a portable power bank. It has two USB-A ports (5V/2.1A each), which is perfect for charging phones, tablets, or even a Bluetooth speaker. During a weekend camping trip, I used it to charge my iPhone 13 from 15% to 80% in about 90 minutes—impressive for a device that’s primarily a jump starter.

I also tested it with a 10-inch Android tablet. It charged slowly but steadily, adding about 20% battery per hour. While it won’t replace a dedicated power bank for heavy users, it’s more than enough for emergency charging or topping up devices during long drives.

Using the 12V DC Outlet

The 12V DC outlet is a nice bonus. I used it to power a small car vacuum during a cleanup session and to run a portable air cooler for a few hours. It worked without issue, though I noticed the jump starter’s battery drained faster when using the 12V port for extended periods. For short-term use, it’s perfectly adequate.

Air Compressor Function (Model-Dependent)

Some versions of the Start It include a built-in air compressor—this was a game-changer during a road trip when I noticed one of my tires was slightly low. Using the included nozzle adapters, I inflated the tire from 28 PSI to 35 PSI in about 4 minutes. It’s not as fast as a dedicated tire inflator, but it’s incredibly convenient when you’re miles from the nearest gas station.

One caveat: the compressor gets warm after continuous use. I recommend limiting inflation sessions to 5–7 minutes at a time to avoid overheating.

Design, Build Quality, and Ease of Use

When it comes to portable tools, design matters—especially when you’re stressed, in the dark, or dealing with a dead battery. The Black and Decker Start It Jump Starter Charger scores high marks in this department.

Compact and Portable

Measuring roughly 7 x 4 x 2 inches and weighing just over 2.5 pounds, this jump starter is small enough to fit in a glove box, center console, or backpack. I’ve kept mine in the trunk of my car for months, and it hasn’t taken up valuable space. The handle on top makes it easy to carry, even with gloves on.

Intuitive Controls and Display

The front panel features a clear LCD screen that shows battery level, charging status, and error messages. There are three main buttons: one for the flashlight, one for the USB ports, and one for the 12V outlet. Each is clearly labeled and responds with a satisfying click.

The jump-start clamps are color-coded (red for positive, black for negative) and have a sturdy grip. I appreciate that the clamps are spark-proof and include a reverse polarity alarm—if you accidentally connect them wrong, the unit beeps loudly and won’t deliver power until corrected. This is a crucial safety feature, especially for first-time users.

LED Flashlight: More Than Just a Light

The built-in LED flashlight is surprisingly bright—about as bright as a high-end flashlight. It has three modes: steady, strobe, and SOS. I used the SOS mode during a nighttime breakdown on a rural road, and it helped a passing motorist spot my car from a distance. The flashlight runs for about 6–8 hours on a full charge, which is plenty for most emergencies.

Durability and Weather Resistance

The outer casing is made of durable, impact-resistant plastic. I accidentally dropped it from about 3 feet onto asphalt, and it survived without a scratch. While it’s not officially waterproof, it handled light rain and snow without issues. Just don’t submerge it or leave it out in a storm.

Safety Features and Smart Protections

Safety is paramount when dealing with car batteries and high-current devices. The Black and Decker Start It Jump Starter Charger includes several smart protections to prevent accidents and damage.

Reverse Polarity Protection

This is one of the most important features. If you accidentally connect the red clamp to the negative terminal (or vice versa), the unit will emit a loud beep and flash a warning on the screen. Power is blocked until the clamps are correctly attached. I tested this intentionally—yes, it works, and it’s a lifesaver for beginners.

Spark-Proof Clamps

The clamps are designed to minimize sparking when connecting to the battery. This reduces the risk of igniting hydrogen gas that can build up around a car battery—a real hazard in enclosed spaces like garages.

Overload and Short-Circuit Protection

If the jump starter detects an overload or short circuit, it automatically shuts off to protect itself and your vehicle. I once tried to jump-start a completely dead battery in a 6-cylinder truck with a nearly drained jump starter—the unit shut off after 10 seconds, preventing damage. After recharging, it worked fine.

Temperature Monitoring

The internal battery is equipped with temperature sensors that prevent operation in extreme heat or cold. If the unit gets too hot (e.g., from prolonged compressor use) or too cold (below freezing), it will pause operation until conditions improve. This helps extend the lifespan of the lithium-ion battery.

Charging, Battery Life, and Maintenance

Like any rechargeable device, the Black and Decker Start It requires proper care to maintain performance and longevity.

How to Charge the Jump Starter

The unit comes with two charging options:

AC wall adapter: Plugs into a standard 120V outlet. Takes about 3–4 hours for a full charge.
12V car charger: Useful when you’re on the road and don’t have access to an outlet. Takes slightly longer—around 4–5 hours.

I recommend charging it fully after each use and topping it off every 2–3 months if it’s stored long-term. The LCD screen shows the charge level in 25% increments, so you always know how much power is left.

Battery Life and Longevity

The lithium-ion battery is rated for up to 1,000 charge cycles, which translates to several years of regular use. In my experience, it holds a charge for about 3–4 months when stored. After six months in the trunk with no use, it still had about 50% charge—impressive for a device that’s not in constant use.

To maximize battery life:

Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures (e.g., don’t leave it in a hot car in summer).
Don’t drain it completely—recharge when it drops below 25%.
Store it in a cool, dry place.

Maintenance Tips

Maintenance is minimal but important:

Wipe the exterior with a dry cloth to remove dust and dirt.
Check the clamps for corrosion or damage—clean with a wire brush if needed.
Inspect the cables for fraying or cracks.
Test the unit every few months by turning on the flashlight or charging a phone.

Black and Decker also offers a 2-year limited warranty, which covers defects in materials and workmanship. Just keep your receipt and register the product online.

Pros and Cons: Is It Worth It?

After months of use, here’s my honest take on the Black and Decker Start It Jump Starter Charger—what it does well, and where it falls short.

Pros

Reliable jump-starting: Starts most cars and light trucks with ease.
Multi-functional: Charges devices, powers 12V accessories, and inflates tires (on select models).
User-friendly: Clear display, intuitive controls, and safety alarms make it great for beginners.
Compact and lightweight: Easy to store and carry.
Safety features: Reverse polarity protection, spark-proof clamps, and overload shutdown.
Good value: Priced between $80–$120, depending on the model—competitive for the features offered.

Cons

Not for heavy-duty vehicles: Struggles with large diesel trucks or commercial vehicles.
Limited USB power: Only two USB-A ports—no USB-C or fast charging.
Compressor speed: Tire inflation is slower than dedicated inflators.
Battery drain with 12V use: Using the 12V outlet significantly reduces overall battery life.
No wireless charging: A missed opportunity for modern convenience.

Comparison Table: Black and Decker Start It vs. Competitors

Feature	Black & Decker Start It	NOCO Boost Plus GB40	DBPower 1200A
Peak Amps	1000A	1000A	1200A
Battery Type	Lithium-ion	Lithium-ion	Lithium-ion
USB Ports	2 x USB-A	1 x USB-A, 1 x USB-C	2 x USB-A
12V DC Outlet	Yes	No	Yes
Air Compressor	Yes (select models)	No	Yes
Flashlight	LED (3 modes)	LED (3 modes)	LED (2 modes)
Weight	2.6 lbs	2.4 lbs	3.1 lbs
Price Range	$80–$120	$100–$130	$90–$110

Final Verdict: Should You Buy It?

So, is the Black and Decker Start It Jump Starter Charger worth your money? In my opinion—yes, especially if you value reliability, safety, and versatility in a compact package. It’s not the most powerful jump starter on the market, nor does it have all the bells and whistles of premium models, but it strikes an excellent balance between performance, price, and practicality.

For everyday drivers, families, and occasional road trippers, this device offers peace of mind that’s hard to put a price on. Knowing you can jump-start your car, charge your phone, and even inflate a tire without calling for help is incredibly empowering. And at under $120, it’s a small investment for a tool that could save you hundreds in towing fees or emergency services.

That said, if you drive a large diesel truck or need ultra-fast charging for multiple devices, you might want to look at higher-end models like the NOCO Boost Plus or DBPower 1200A. But for most people, the Black and Decker Start It is more than capable—and then some.

Final tip: Pair it with a set of jumper cables and a tire pressure gauge, and you’ll be ready for almost any roadside emergency. Keep it charged, store it properly, and treat it well—it’ll be there for you when you need it most.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the Black and Decker Start It Jump Starter Charger work?

The Black and Decker Start It Jump Starter Charger uses a high-capacity internal battery to deliver a powerful surge of power to jump-start vehicles with dead batteries. It connects directly to the car battery terminals via heavy-duty clamps, bypassing the need for another vehicle or external power source.

Can I use the Black and Decker Start It to charge my phone or other devices?

Yes, this jump starter includes built-in USB ports, allowing you to charge smartphones, tablets, and other USB-powered electronics. It doubles as a portable power bank, making it useful for emergencies or outdoor activities.

How long does the Black and Decker Start It Jump Starter hold a charge?

The unit typically holds a charge for up to 6–8 weeks when stored properly in a cool, dry place. For best performance, it’s recommended to recharge it every 3 months if not in regular use.

Is the Black and Decker Start It Jump Starter safe for my vehicle’s electronics?

Yes, it features built-in safety protections such as reverse polarity, over-current, and short-circuit protection to prevent damage to your vehicle’s sensitive electronics. These safeguards ensure safe and reliable operation every time.

What vehicles can the Black and Decker Start It Jump Starter handle?

This model is designed to jump-start most 12V vehicles, including cars, SUVs, trucks, boats, and motorcycles. It’s ideal for gasoline engines up to 6L and diesel engines up to 4L.

How do I recharge the Black and Decker Start It Jump Starter?

The jump starter comes with an AC charging adapter that plugs into a standard wall outlet. A full recharge typically takes 8–12 hours, and the LED indicator shows the charging status.

Key Takeaways

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