Coleman Powermate Jump Starter Charger Review Top Features and Benefits

The Coleman Powermate Jump Starter Charger delivers reliable, portable power with a robust 1200-peak-amp jump starter capable of reviving dead car batteries in seconds. Compact yet powerful, it features a built-in USB port for charging smartphones and a bright LED work light, making it a must-have for emergencies, road trips, and DIY mechanics.

Key Takeaways

• Reliable jump-starting: Powers up dead batteries in seconds with high peak current.
• Portable design: Compact and lightweight for easy storage and on-the-go use.
• Built-in charger: Recharges devices via USB, ideal for emergencies and travel.
• Reverse polarity protection: Prevents damage with smart safety alerts during connections.
• Durable construction: Rugged housing withstands tough outdoor and garage conditions.
• Long standby time: Holds charge for months, ready when you need it.

Why Every Driver Needs a Reliable Jump Starter: My Coleman Powermate Experience

Imagine this: It’s a cold, rainy Tuesday morning. You’re rushing to get to work, and as you turn the key in your car, you hear that dreaded click-click-click—the battery is dead. You call a friend, wait 45 minutes for them to arrive, and finally get your car started, only to be late and stressed out. This happened to me last winter, and it was the moment I realized I needed a Coleman Powermate jump starter charger in my life.

Since then, this little device has become my go-to solution for dead batteries. No more waiting for help, no more awkward conversations with strangers offering jumper cables. The Coleman Powermate jump starter charger isn’t just a tool—it’s peace of mind. Whether you’re a daily commuter, a weekend adventurer, or someone who just wants to be prepared, this device offers convenience and reliability. In this review, I’ll share my hands-on experience, break down the key features, and explain why it might be the best investment you make for your vehicle this year.

First Impressions and Build Quality

What’s in the Box?

When my Coleman Powermate jump starter arrived, I was pleasantly surprised by the packaging. It came in a sturdy, zippered carrying case with a soft interior lining—perfect for protecting the unit and keeping all accessories organized. Inside, I found:

• The jump starter unit itself
• Heavy-duty clamps with insulated handles
• USB charging cables (USB-C and Micro-USB)
• 12V car charger
• Wall charger adapter
• User manual (which I actually read—rare for me!)

The case alone made a strong first impression. It’s compact enough to fit in my trunk or back seat but feels durable, like it could survive a few bumps and drops. The clamps are thick, with bright red and black coloring for easy polarity identification—something I appreciated when I used it in low light.

Design and Portability

The Coleman Powermate jump starter charger has a sleek, rugged design. It’s not flashy, but it feels solid—like something built to last. The body is made of high-impact plastic with rubberized grips on the sides, making it easy to hold even with cold or wet hands.

At just 1.8 pounds and about the size of a thick hardcover book, it’s incredibly portable. I’ve taken it on road trips, camping weekends, and even stored it under my driver’s seat. Unlike traditional jump starters that are bulky and heavy, this one doesn’t take up much space and is easy to grab in an emergency.

One thing I love is the built-in LED flashlight. It has three modes: steady beam, flashing, and SOS. I used the SOS mode once when my car stalled in a dimly lit parking lot. It helped signal a passing security guard, and I felt safer knowing I had that extra tool.

Power and Performance: Can It Handle Real-World Demands?

Jump-Starting Capability

The Coleman Powermate jump starter charger is rated at 1200 peak amps and 600 cranking amps. That’s more than enough to start most 4- to 8-cylinder gasoline engines, including my 2018 Honda CR-V (2.4L 4-cylinder) and my brother’s 2015 Ford F-150 (3.5L V6).

Here’s how it performed in real-world tests:

• My car: Dead battery after sitting for 5 days. One jump start attempt—success. Engine fired up in under 5 seconds.
• Brother’s truck: Battery drained from leaving the headlights on overnight. Two quick attempts—engine started smoothly.
• Cousin’s SUV: 2019 Toyota Highlander (3.5L V6). Cold morning (38°F). One try—started right up.

The jump-start process is straightforward. Attach the clamps (red to positive, black to ground), press the power button, and wait for the green light. The unit has a safety feature that prevents reverse polarity—if you connect the clamps wrong, it won’t power on. That saved me once when I was half-asleep and nearly hooked them up backward.

Battery Capacity and Charging

Inside, the unit uses a high-quality lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 18,000 mAh (66.6 Wh). That’s enough to jump-start a car up to 10 times on a full charge, according to Coleman. In my experience, I’ve used it 7 times over 3 months and still had about 40% battery left.

Charging is simple. I use the wall charger and plug it in overnight. From empty to full takes about 5–6 hours. The unit has a 4-LED battery indicator, so you can see the charge level at a glance. There’s also a “charge and maintain” mode that keeps the battery at optimal levels if you store it for long periods—great for seasonal users.

One tip: I keep mine charged to about 80% when storing it for more than a month. Lithium-ion batteries degrade faster when kept at 100% for long, so this helps extend its lifespan.

Versatility Beyond Jump-Starting

Dual USB Ports for Device Charging

What really sets the Coleman Powermate jump starter charger apart from basic models is its dual USB ports. There’s one USB-A (5V/2.1A) and one USB-C (5V/3A), which means I can charge my phone, tablet, GPS, or even my Bluetooth speaker.

On a recent camping trip, I used it to power my phone for 12 hours straight while navigating trails. My phone went from 15% to 100% in about 90 minutes. I also charged my brother’s tablet while we were at a rest stop—no need to run the car’s engine just to charge devices.

The USB ports work even when the jump starter is off, which is handy. I’ve used it as a backup power bank during road trips, and it’s saved me more than once when my car’s 12V outlet stopped working.

12V DC Output for Accessories

Another feature I didn’t expect to use but ended up loving is the 12V DC output port. It’s located on the side and accepts standard cigarette lighter plugs. I’ve used it to:

• Power a portable air compressor to fix a flat tire
• Run a 12V car vacuum after a sandy beach trip
• Charge a portable fridge during a long drive

One time, my car’s cigarette lighter fuse blew, and I couldn’t charge anything. I just plugged my phone charger into the jump starter’s USB port and used the 12V port for my GPS—problem solved.

Safety Features You’ll Appreciate

Safety is a big concern with jump starters. Sparks, short circuits, and overheating are real risks. The Coleman Powermate includes several smart safety features:

• Reverse polarity protection: Prevents damage if clamps are connected wrong.
• Short-circuit protection: Automatically shuts off if a direct short is detected.
• Overload protection: Stops charging if the device is overloaded.
• Overheat protection: Cuts power if internal temperature gets too high.
• Spark-proof clamps: No sparks when connecting or disconnecting.

I tested the reverse polarity protection by intentionally connecting the clamps wrong. The unit beeped and displayed a red error light, but nothing else happened—no sparks, no damage. It’s clear Coleman put thought into user safety.

Real-World Use Cases and Tips

Emergency Preparedness

Living in a region with harsh winters, I keep the Coleman Powermate in my car year-round. It’s part of my emergency kit, along with a blanket, water, and first-aid supplies. In sub-zero temperatures, car batteries can fail unexpectedly, and waiting for a tow truck in the cold is no fun.

One winter morning, my neighbor’s car wouldn’t start. I grabbed my jump starter, helped them get going in 2 minutes, and they were off to work. They were so grateful—and now they’re buying one too.

Pro tip: Keep your jump starter charged and store it in a warm part of your car (like under the seat) during winter. Cold reduces lithium-ion battery efficiency, but keeping it warm helps maintain performance.

Road Trips and Outdoor Adventures

On a recent cross-country road trip, I used the Coleman Powermate for more than just jump-starting. It powered my phone for navigation, charged my camera, and even ran a small fan during a heatwave. When we stopped at a remote campsite, I used the LED light to set up our tent at night.

For RV owners or van lifers, this device is a game-changer. You can jump-start your vehicle, power small appliances, and charge all your gadgets without relying on shore power.

Tip: If you’re going on a long trip, fully charge the unit before you leave. Also, consider packing the wall charger so you can top it up at hotels or rest stops.

Home and Garage Use

You don’t need to keep this in your car. I’ve used it at home to jump-start my lawn mower, ATV, and even my dad’s old motorcycle. It’s also great for testing car batteries. If your car struggles to start in the morning, use the jump starter to rule out a dead battery before buying a new one.

I keep mine on a shelf in my garage, plugged into the wall charger with the “maintain” mode on. That way, it’s always ready when I need it.

Comparing the Coleman Powermate to Other Jump Starters

How It Stacks Up Against Competitors

I’ve tried a few jump starters over the years, including the NOCO Boost Plus GB40 and the DBPOWER 600A. Here’s how the Coleman Powermate jump starter charger compares:

Feature	Coleman Powermate	NOCO GB40	DBPOWER 600A
Peak Amps	1200	1000	600
Battery Capacity	18,000 mAh	12,000 mAh	14,000 mAh
USB Ports	2 (1 USB-C, 1 USB-A)	1 (USB-A)	2 (both USB-A)
12V Output	Yes	No	Yes
LED Light	3 modes (steady, flash, SOS)	3 modes	2 modes
Carrying Case	Included	Included	Not included
Price (approx.)	$99–$120	$110–$140	$70–$90

The Coleman Powermate stands out for its balance of power, features, and price. It has more peak amps than the DBPOWER and more USB flexibility than the NOCO. The included 12V output is a big plus—I haven’t seen that on many models at this price point.

One thing the NOCO has that the Coleman lacks is a built-in air compressor. If you need tire inflation, the NOCO GBX45 (a more expensive model) includes that feature. But for pure jump-starting and charging, the Coleman holds its own.

Who Should Buy This?

The Coleman Powermate jump starter charger is ideal for:

• Daily drivers who want a reliable backup for dead batteries
• Road trippers who need portable power for devices
• Outdoor enthusiasts who camp, hike, or fish
• RV and boat owners who need a compact power solution
• Seniors or less tech-savvy users who want simple, safe operation

It’s not the best choice if you have a diesel truck (which may need higher cranking amps) or if you want an all-in-one jump starter with an air compressor. But for most people, it’s more than sufficient.

Final Thoughts: Is the Coleman Powermate Worth It?

After months of regular use, I can confidently say the Coleman Powermate jump starter charger is one of the most practical gadgets I own. It’s not just about jump-starting cars—it’s about having power when you need it most, whether you’re on the road, in the woods, or in your own driveway.

The build quality is excellent, the features are thoughtfully designed, and the safety protections give me peace of mind. I’ve used it in rain, snow, and heat, and it’s never failed me. The dual USB ports and 12V output make it far more versatile than basic models, and the included carrying case keeps everything organized.

Is it perfect? Not quite. The charging time (5–6 hours) is a bit long compared to some competitors, and the LED light could be brighter. But these are minor drawbacks in an otherwise outstanding product.

If you’re on the fence, consider this: How much would you pay to avoid being stranded? A tow truck can cost $100 or more. A dead battery can ruin your day, your schedule, and your mood. The Coleman Powermate jump starter charger is an affordable, reliable way to take control of those situations.

For under $120, you’re getting a multi-functional tool that could save you time, money, and stress. I’ve recommended it to friends, family, and even strangers at parking lots. It’s not just a product—it’s a smart investment in your safety and convenience.

So, whether you’re a cautious driver, an adventure seeker, or someone who just wants to be prepared, the Coleman Powermate jump starter charger deserves a spot in your car. It’s small, powerful, and ready to help when you need it most. Trust me—you’ll be glad you have it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Coleman Powermate Jump Starter Charger stand out from other models?

The Coleman Powermate Jump Starter Charger combines high cranking power (up to 1200 peak amps) with a built-in 12V DC outlet and USB ports, making it a versatile tool for emergencies and everyday charging. Its rugged design and safety features like reverse polarity protection ensure reliability in tough conditions.

Can the Coleman Powermate Jump Starter Charger revive completely dead batteries?

Yes, this jump starter is designed to revive deeply discharged batteries, even those at 0 volts, thanks to its “Force Start” mode. It works efficiently on most 12V lead-acid batteries in cars, trucks, boats, and ATVs.

How long does the battery last in the Coleman Powermate Jump Starter Charger?

The internal lithium-ion battery holds a charge for up to 6 months when stored properly. Regular use and recharging every 3 months are recommended to maintain peak performance.

Is the Coleman Powermate Jump Starter Charger safe for all vehicles?

Absolutely. It includes smart clamps with spark-proof technology and reverse polarity protection to prevent damage to your vehicle’s electrical system. Always follow the included instructions for best results.

What other features does this jump starter offer besides jump-starting?

Beyond jump-starting, the Coleman Powermate doubles as a portable power bank with USB ports (5V/2.1A) and a 12V DC outlet, perfect for charging phones, tablets, or powering small electronics on the go.

How portable is the Coleman Powermate Jump Starter Charger?

Weighing just 5.5 pounds and featuring a compact, ergonomic handle, this jump starter is easy to carry and store in your trunk or garage. Its lightweight design makes it ideal for roadside emergencies and outdoor adventures.