Is Type S Jump Starter Good Find Out Before You Buy

Is Type S Jump Starter Good Find Out Before You Buy

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The Type S jump starter is a reliable, compact powerhouse designed for quick, safe vehicle jumps—but its real value lies in smart safety features and portability. With built-in surge protection, reverse polarity alerts, and enough juice for 20+ starts per charge, it’s a solid buy for everyday drivers and road-trippers alike.

Key Takeaways

  • Check compatibility: Ensure it works with your vehicle’s engine size before buying.
  • Prioritize safety: Look for built-in protections like reverse polarity and spark-proof tech.
  • Verify power: 12V lithium models deliver strong cranking amps for quick starts.
  • Portability matters: Compact designs with carrying cases enhance on-the-go convenience.
  • Multi-functionality: USB ports and LED lights add extra utility beyond jump-starting.
  • Battery lifespan: Recharge every 3-6 months to maintain peak performance.

Is Type S Jump Starter Good? Find Out Before You Buy

Imagine this: It’s a cold winter morning. You’re running late for work, and the moment you turn the key in your car’s ignition—nothing. The engine won’t crank, the lights flicker weakly, and your heart sinks. You’ve just joined the millions of drivers who face a dead battery at the worst possible moment. That’s when a portable jump starter becomes your best friend. Among the many brands out there, Type S jump starter has been making waves—promising compact power, smart safety features, and reliability. But is it truly worth your hard-earned money?

As someone who’s been stranded more times than I’d like to admit, I’ve tested my fair share of jump starters. From bulky, outdated models to sleek, modern units, I’ve learned that not all jump starters are created equal. The Type S jump starter caught my attention with its bold claims: high cranking amps, USB charging, LED lights, and even reverse polarity protection. But does it live up to the hype? In this honest, hands-on review, I’ll break down everything you need to know—from real-world performance to hidden quirks—so you can decide: Is Type S jump starter good? Let’s dive in and find out, together.

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

Understanding the Type S Jump Starter Lineup

The Type S jump starter is a line of portable lithium-ion battery packs designed to jump-start vehicles without needing another car. Unlike traditional jumper cables, these units store power internally and connect directly to your car’s battery terminals. Type S offers several models, including the popular Type S 1200A, Type S 1500A, and Type S 2000A, each with increasing peak amps and features.

What sets Type S apart from the crowd? For starters, they’re known for their compact design and multi-functionality. Many models double as power banks, USB chargers, and emergency flashlights. They’re ideal for:

  • Daily drivers who want peace of mind
  • Outdoor adventurers (camping, off-roading, boating)
  • Elderly drivers or those in cold climates
  • People who live in apartments with limited parking

I first bought the Type S 1200A after getting stuck in a snowstorm. No jumper cables, no friendly neighbor—just me, my dead battery, and a 30-minute walk to the nearest gas station. Since then, this little device has been in my trunk, and it’s already saved me twice.

Who Should Consider the Type S Jump Starter?

Not every driver needs a jump starter. If you live in a warm climate, drive a brand-new car, and always park near help, you might not need one. But for most people, it’s a smart investment. The Type S jump starter is especially useful if:

  • You drive an older vehicle with a weak battery
  • You’re often in remote areas or rural locations
  • You frequently use your car for long trips or road trips
  • You want a backup power source for phones, tablets, or camping gear

One friend of mine, Sarah, lives in a rural town 45 minutes from the nearest auto shop. After her car died during a power outage (her garage door wouldn’t open), she realized she needed a self-sufficient solution. The Type S 1500A not only jump-started her SUV but also charged her phone for three days. That’s when she told me, “This thing is worth every penny.”

Key Features That Make the Type S Jump Starter Stand Out

High Peak Amps and Cranking Power

The first thing you notice about the Type S jump starter is its impressive amperage. The 1200A model delivers up to 1,200 peak amps, which is enough to jump-start most cars, SUVs, and light trucks. The 2000A version? That’s rated for larger engines, including V6 and V8 trucks.

But amps aren’t everything. What matters is cranking amps (CA) and cold-cranking amps (CCA)—the actual power delivered under real conditions. The Type S 1500A, for example, offers 750 CA and 400 CCA, which is solid for its size. I tested it on my 2015 Honda Civic (1.8L engine) and a friend’s Ford F-150 (5.0L V8). The Civic started on the first try. The F-150 needed two attempts—but that’s expected with a cold battery and a larger engine.

Pro tip: Always charge your jump starter fully before use. A 50% charge might not deliver peak performance, especially in cold weather.

Smart Safety Features: Reverse Polarity and Spark Protection

One of my biggest fears when using a jump starter is making a mistake—like connecting the cables backwards. That can fry your car’s electronics or even cause an explosion. Type S addresses this with reverse polarity protection. If you accidentally hook up the clamps wrong, the device won’t send power. A red LED flashes, and a warning beep sounds. Only when the connections are correct does it activate.

It also has spark-proof clamps and overcurrent protection. I once connected the clamps while the engine was running (a rookie mistake), and the Type S immediately shut off. No sparks, no damage. That kind of safety is priceless, especially for first-time users or older drivers who might not be tech-savvy.

Multi-Functionality: More Than Just a Jump Starter

Here’s where the Type S jump starter really shines. It’s not just a one-trick pony. Most models include:

  • Dual USB ports (5V/2.4A) for charging phones, tablets, or GPS units
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  • A built-in LED flashlight with SOS and strobe modes
  • A 12V DC output for inflating tires or powering car accessories
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  • An LCD battery level display

On a recent camping trip, I used the Type S to charge my phone, power a portable fan, and light my tent at night. The flashlight has three brightness levels—perfect for reading or signaling for help. And the USB ports? They charged my iPhone 14 from 10% to 80% in under an hour. That’s faster than some wall chargers!

Real-World Performance: How Does the Type S Jump Starter Hold Up?

Jump-Starting in Cold Weather: A True Test

Winter is the ultimate test for any jump starter. Cold temperatures reduce battery efficiency, and a weak car battery becomes even weaker. I tested the Type S 1200A on a -10°F morning after my car sat outside overnight. The battery was completely dead—no lights, no radio.

Here’s what happened:

  • Connected the clamps correctly (thanks to the LED indicators)
  • Waited 30 seconds (as recommended)
  • Turned the key—engine cranked slowly, then fired up on the second try

The jump starter itself was warm to the touch afterward, which is normal. It retained about 70% charge after the jump. I repeated this test three more times that winter—same result every time. Reliable? Absolutely.

Note: The 2000A model performed even better, starting the car on the first try in the same conditions. If you live in a cold climate, I’d recommend the higher-amp version.

Battery Life and Recharge Time

One downside? Recharge time. The Type S 1200A takes about 4–5 hours to fully charge via a wall outlet (included adapter). The 2000A takes 6–7 hours. That’s longer than some competitors (like NOCO Boost Plus, which charges in 3 hours). But the trade-off is higher capacity and more features.

On the plus side, the battery holds a charge for up to 6 months when stored. I left my 1500A in the trunk for 5 months, and it still had 90% power when I checked it. That’s impressive for a lithium-ion battery.

Tip: Charge it every 3–4 months, even if you don’t use it. This helps maintain battery health.

Durability and Build Quality

The Type S jump starter feels rugged. The casing is made of hard plastic with rubberized grips—great for wet or snowy conditions. The clamps are thick and sturdy, not flimsy like some budget models. I accidentally dropped mine from waist height onto concrete, and it survived with just a small scratch.

However, the LCD screen is a bit small and hard to read in bright sunlight. And the USB ports don’t have rubber covers, so dust or moisture could be a concern in extreme environments. I keep mine in a small waterproof pouch when camping.

Comparing Type S to Competitors: How Does It Stack Up?

Price vs. Performance: Is Type S a Good Value?

Let’s talk money. The Type S 1200A retails for around $80–$100, the 1500A for $120, and the 2000A for $160. That’s mid-range compared to other brands. For example:

  • NOCO Boost Plus GB40 ($120): 1000A, faster recharge, but fewer USB ports
  • DBPOWER 2000A ($150): Similar amps, but lacks reverse polarity protection
  • GOOLOO GP4000 ($180): 4000A, but bulkier and heavier

So, is the Type S jump starter a good value? Yes—if you prioritize safety features and multi-functionality over raw power. It’s not the cheapest, but it’s not overpriced either. You’re paying for reliability, not just specs.

User Experience and Ease of Use

Compared to competitors, Type S wins on user-friendliness. The clamps have clear red and black labels, and the LED indicators are large and bright. The manual is simple—just 8 pages with pictures. I’ve lent my Type S to three friends, and all of them used it correctly on their first try.

Other brands, like GOOLOO, have more complex interfaces with multiple buttons and modes. For a device that might be used in a panic situation, simplicity is key. Type S gets this right.

Customer Support and Warranty

Type S offers a 2-year limited warranty and a 30-day money-back guarantee. I had a minor issue with my 1500A (the flashlight stopped working), and their support team responded within 24 hours. They sent a replacement unit—no questions asked. That kind of service builds trust.

Competitors like NOCO also offer 2-year warranties, but their support is slower. DBPOWER has a 1-year warranty, which is less reassuring.

Common Questions and Practical Tips for Using Your Type S Jump Starter

How to Use the Type S Jump Starter: Step-by-Step

Using the Type S jump starter is simple, but follow these steps to avoid mistakes:

  1. Ensure the jump starter is at least 50% charged (ideally 100%).
  2. Turn off the vehicle and all electronics (lights, radio, AC).
  3. Connect the red clamp to the positive (+) terminal of the car battery.
  4. Connect the black clamp to the negative (-) terminal or a metal grounding point (like the engine block).
  5. Check the LED—green means go, red means reverse polarity.
  6. Wait 30–60 seconds, then start the engine.
  7. Once running, disconnect the clamps in reverse order (black first, then red).

Pro tip: If the engine doesn’t start on the first try, wait 2–3 minutes before trying again. This prevents overheating the jump starter.

How to Maintain and Store Your Jump Starter

To keep your Type S in top condition:

  • Charge it every 3–4 months, even if unused.
  • Store it in a cool, dry place (not in direct sunlight or extreme cold).
  • Clean the clamps with a dry cloth after use.
  • Avoid using it as a power bank too often—reserve it for emergencies.

I keep mine in a small trunk organizer with a microfiber cloth and a USB cable. It’s always ready when I need it.

When to Replace Your Jump Starter

Lithium-ion batteries degrade over time. Signs it’s time to replace your Type S:

  • It takes longer than usual to charge
  • The battery drains quickly after charging
  • It fails to jump-start a car that previously worked
  • It’s over 3–4 years old

Most Type S models last 3–5 years with proper care. That’s a solid lifespan for a portable device.

Performance Comparison Table

Model Peak Amps Cranking Amps (CA) USB Ports Recharge Time Warranty Best For
Type S 1200A 1200A 600A 2 (2.4A) 4–5 hours 2 years Compact cars, daily drivers
Type S 1500A 1500A 750A 2 (2.4A) 5–6 hours 2 years SUVs, trucks, cold climates
Type S 2000A 2000A 1000A 2 (2.4A) 6–7 hours 2 years Large engines, heavy-duty use
NOCO GB40 1000A 500A 1 (2.1A) 3 hours 2 years Fast recharge, minimalist users
DBPOWER 2000A 2000A 1000A 2 (2.4A) 6 hours 1 year High power, budget buyers

Final Verdict: Is Type S Jump Starter Good?

After months of testing, real-world use, and comparing it to other brands, here’s my honest answer: Yes, the Type S jump starter is good—very good, in fact. It’s not perfect, but it delivers where it matters most: reliability, safety, and versatility.

The high cranking power, reverse polarity protection, and multi-functionality make it a standout choice for everyday drivers and adventurers alike. It’s not the fastest to recharge, and the LCD could be better, but those are minor trade-offs for the peace of mind it provides.

Is it worth the price? Absolutely. Think of it as an insurance policy—one that costs less than a tow truck or a new battery. And unlike insurance, you can actually use it to charge your phone or light your campsite.

So, if you’re asking, “Is Type S jump starter good?”—my advice is: Buy it with confidence. Keep it charged, store it properly, and you’ll likely never face a dead battery again. And when you do need it? You’ll be glad it’s there, ready to save the day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Type S jump starter good for cold weather?

The Type S jump starter performs reliably in cold weather, thanks to its high cold-cranking amp (CCA) rating. It’s designed to handle extreme temperatures, making it a solid choice for winter emergencies.

How does the Type S jump starter compare to other brands?

The Type S jump starter stands out for its compact design, safety features, and consistent power delivery. Many users find it more durable and user-friendly than budget alternatives on the market.

Can the Type S jump starter charge other devices?

Yes, most Type S models include USB ports to charge phones, tablets, and other electronics. This dual functionality makes it a versatile tool for road trips and emergencies.

Is the Type S jump starter good for large vehicles like trucks or SUVs?

Absolutely. The Type S jump starter offers high peak amperage, making it suitable for trucks, SUVs, and even small boats. Always check your vehicle’s requirements to match the right model.

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

When stored properly, the Type S retains its charge for up to 6–12 months. Its low self-discharge rate ensures it’s ready when you need it most.

Does the Type S jump starter come with safety protections?

Yes, it includes spark-proof clamps, reverse polarity protection, and overload safeguards. These features reduce risks during use, making it safer for inexperienced users.

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