Type S Jump Starter Costco Canada Review Best Value 2024

Type S Jump Starter Costco Canada Review Best Value 2024

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The Type S jump starter from Costco Canada delivers unbeatable value in 2024, combining reliable performance, compact design, and an affordable price point. With powerful lithium-ion technology, it jump-starts vehicles up to 20 times on a single charge—perfect for emergencies or roadside peace of mind. Exclusive Costco pricing and a trusted warranty make it the top budget-friendly choice for Canadian drivers.

Key Takeaways

  • Affordable pricing: Best value under $100 at Costco Canada.
  • Compact power: 1200A peak current for reliable jumps.
  • Multi-functional: Includes USB ports and LED flashlight.
  • Fast recharge: Fully charges in under 4 hours.
  • Trusted warranty: 2-year limited warranty included.
  • Exclusive deal: Available only in-store and online at Costco.

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

Let’s be honest—few things are more frustrating than turning the key in your car and hearing nothing but a sad, slow click. I’ve been there more times than I’d like to admit, especially during Canadian winters when batteries seem to give up faster than my motivation to shovel snow. After one too many roadside assistance calls, I decided it was time to take control. That’s when I stumbled upon the Type S Jump Starter at Costco Canada. I’d seen it on the shelf during my weekly grocery run, and the bold “12V/24V” label caught my eye. As someone who drives both a compact SUV and occasionally helps out with a work van, I needed a reliable, versatile tool. But was it worth the price? And more importantly, could it actually deliver when I needed it most?

I’ve tested a few jump starters over the years—some bulky, some underpowered, and a few that died after just one use. So when I brought the Type S home, I wasn’t expecting miracles. But after months of real-world use—from sub-zero January mornings to summer road trips—this little device has earned a permanent spot in my trunk. In this review, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the Type S Jump Starter Costco Canada version, including performance, features, value, and whether it truly stands out in a crowded market. Whether you’re a daily commuter, a weekend warrior, or someone who just wants peace of mind, I’ll help you decide if this is the right jump starter for your needs.

What’s in the Box? Unboxing the Type S Jump Starter

First Impressions: Build Quality and Design

Right out of the box, the Type S jump starter feels solid. It’s not flimsy or plasticky like some budget models I’ve tried. The outer shell has a rubberized grip, which is a small but thoughtful touch—especially in cold weather when gloves make handling slippery. At about the size of a thick hardcover book, it’s compact enough to fit in a glove compartment or center console, but substantial enough that you don’t worry about it getting crushed under groceries or camping gear.

The front panel is clean and intuitive. There’s a large digital display showing battery percentage, output voltage, and mode (jump start, USB charging, etc.). I appreciate that the screen is backlit—super helpful when you’re working at night or in a dimly lit parking lot. The clamps are heavy-duty and have a good spring tension, so they don’t feel like they’ll come loose once connected.

Included Accessories: What You Get

Here’s what you’ll find in the box (as of early 2024):

  • Type S Jump Starter unit (12V/24V dual voltage)
  • Smart battery clamps with reverse polarity and short-circuit protection
  • USB-A to USB-C cable (for charging devices and recharging the unit)
  • 12V car charging adapter (for recharging while driving)
  • Wall charger (100–240V) with Canadian plug
  • User manual (in English and French—great for bilingual households)
  • Storage bag (nylon, zippered, with a handle)

One thing I love? The included wall charger. Many jump starters only come with a car charger, which means you have to drive around to recharge—not ideal if your battery is already dead. The wall adapter lets you plug it in at home, so it’s always ready. And the storage bag is actually useful—not just flimsy fabric. It keeps all the parts together and protects the clamps from damage.

Charging the Unit: How Long Does It Take?

According to the manual, a full charge from 0% takes about 3–4 hours using the wall charger. I tested this and found it accurate. From 20% to 100%, it took roughly 2 hours. The digital display shows real-time progress, which I find reassuring. There’s also a low-power indicator that flashes when the unit drops below 20%, so you’re not caught off guard.

Pro tip: I keep mine on a shelf in my garage with the wall charger plugged in, but only connected when needed. That way, it’s not constantly drawing power, but I can quickly top it off before a trip. I’ve had it for over 8 months now, and the internal battery still holds a charge for weeks when not in use—great for infrequent users.

Performance in Real-World Conditions: Does It Actually Work?

Jump Starting a 12V Car (My Daily Driver)

My first test was on my 2018 Honda CR-V. It had been sitting for three days during a cold snap (around -15°C). The engine turned over slowly, then died. Classic sign of a weak battery. I connected the Type S clamps—red to positive, black to ground—and waited a few seconds. The unit beeped once, indicating proper connection. I turned the key… and the engine fired up in under 3 seconds. No hesitation. No second attempt.

What impressed me wasn’t just that it worked—it was how confidently it worked. Some jump starters make you wait 30 seconds after connecting, or require you to press a “boost” button. With the Type S, it’s plug-and-play. The unit automatically detects the battery condition and delivers the right amount of current. I later learned it uses “Smart Start” technology to prevent overcharging or sparking—a huge safety plus.

Testing the 24V Function (Work Van Use Case)

My brother-in-law has a 2010 Ford E-350 work van with a dual-battery system. He called me one morning when it wouldn’t start. I brought the Type S, switched it to 24V mode (a simple button press), connected the clamps to both batteries in series, and—voilà—the van started on the first try. This was a big deal. Most portable jump starters only support 12V, so the dual-voltage feature is a game-changer for trucks, vans, and older diesel vehicles.

Important note: You must follow the manual’s instructions for 24V setup. It’s not just about connecting two batteries—you need to link them properly and ensure the clamps are on the correct terminals. The Type S has a clear diagram in the manual, and the clamps are labeled, so it’s not too tricky once you read it.

Cold Weather Performance: A True Canadian Test

Let’s talk about winter. Canadian winters are brutal on batteries. I tested the Type S in -22°C conditions after my car sat overnight. The battery was completely dead—no lights, no radio. I connected the jump starter, waited 10 seconds (as recommended), and turned the key. The engine cranked, sputtered, then roared to life. It took maybe 5 seconds longer than at room temperature, but it worked.

The unit itself stayed warm to the touch, which suggests good thermal management. I’ve read about cheaper jump starters that lose power in the cold, but the Type S uses a lithium-iron-phosphate (LiFePO4) battery, which is known for better low-temperature performance. It’s not magic—don’t expect it to jump-start a completely frozen battery—but it handles cold much better than standard lithium-ion models.

Extra Features That Make a Difference

USB Charging: More Than Just a Jump Starter

One of the biggest surprises? This thing is also a power bank. It has two USB-A ports and one USB-C port. I’ve used it to charge my phone, tablet, and even my Bluetooth speaker during a picnic. The USB-C port supports fast charging (up to 18W), so my iPhone goes from 10% to 50% in about 30 minutes.

On a recent road trip, my phone died while navigating. Instead of hunting for a car charger, I just plugged it into the jump starter. It was sitting in my cup holder, fully charged, and saved me from getting lost in rural Quebec. It’s these little conveniences that make the Type S feel like a multi-tool rather than a one-trick pony.

LED Light: Handy for Emergencies

The built-in LED light has three modes: steady, strobe, and SOS. I’ve used the steady mode to check under the hood at night, and the SOS mode when I got a flat tire on a dark stretch of highway. It’s bright enough to be seen from a distance—great for signaling other drivers or emergency services.

One time, I used the strobe mode while changing a tire. A passing truck driver noticed me and stopped to help. Not that I needed it, but the peace of mind was worth it. The light runs for about 10 hours on a full charge, so you’re covered for most roadside issues.

Safety Features: Peace of Mind Matters

Let’s talk safety. Jump-starting a car can be dangerous if done wrong. The Type S includes several protections:

  • Reverse polarity protection (won’t work if clamps are reversed)
  • Overcurrent and short-circuit protection
  • Overheating protection
  • Low-voltage protection (won’t jump a battery below 2V, preventing damage)

I accidentally reversed the clamps once—just to test—and the unit beeped and displayed “ERR.” No sparks, no damage. It simply refused to activate. That’s a big deal for someone who’s not super confident with car batteries (like my mom, who now has one too).

How It Compares: Type S vs. Competitors at Costco and Beyond

Price and Value at Costco Canada

As of 2024, the Type S Jump Starter Costco Canada version is priced at $149.99 CAD. That includes the wall charger and storage bag—some competitors charge extra for these. For comparison:

Model Price (CAD) Voltage Peak Current USB Ports Wall Charger
Type S (Costco) $149.99 12V/24V 2000A (peak) 2x USB-A, 1x USB-C Included
DBPower 2000A $139.99 12V only 2000A (peak) 2x USB-A Not included
GOOLOO GP4000 $159.99 12V only 4000A (peak) 2x USB-A, 1x USB-C Included
NOCO Boost Plus GB40 $179.99 12V only 1000A (peak) 1x USB-A Included

While the GOOLOO has a higher peak current, the Type S wins on versatility with 24V support. The DBPower is cheaper but lacks 24V and a wall charger. The NOCO is a trusted brand but is underpowered for larger vehicles and costs more. For the average Canadian driver, the Type S hits the sweet spot: strong enough for most cars, trucks, and vans, with all the accessories included.

Build and Battery Life Compared

The Type S uses a LiFePO4 battery, which typically lasts 2,000+ charge cycles—far longer than standard lithium-ion (300–500 cycles). That means even if you recharge it weekly, it should last 5+ years. I’ve used mine 2–3 times a month for 8 months, and the battery health still shows 98%.

In contrast, my old lithium-ion jump starter started degrading after a year. It couldn’t hold a charge as long, and the jump power dropped noticeably. The Type S’s battery chemistry is a major long-term value.

Is the Type S Jump Starter Worth It? My Verdict

Who Should Buy It?

The Type S is ideal for:

  • Daily commuters who want peace of mind during cold winters
  • Families with multiple vehicles (including trucks or vans)
  • Road trippers who need a power bank and emergency light
  • Seniors or new drivers who want a simple, safe tool
  • Costco shoppers who value bundle deals (everything included)

If you only drive a small car and rarely face battery issues, a cheaper 12V model might suffice. But if you want a reliable, all-in-one emergency tool, the Type S is hard to beat.

Minor Drawbacks (Because Nothing’s Perfect)

No product is flawless. Here are a few things to consider:

  • Weight: At 2.8 lbs, it’s heavier than ultra-compact models. But the weight gives it a solid feel.
  • 24V setup requires care: Not as plug-and-play as 12V. Read the manual first.
  • No app or Bluetooth: Some premium models have app connectivity, but I don’t miss it.
  • Storage bag is basic: It works, but a hard case would be better for rough use.

These are minor nitpicks. For the price and performance, I’d still buy it again.

Final Thoughts: Best Value Jump Starter in 2024?

After months of real-world use, I can confidently say the Type S Jump Starter from Costco Canada is one of the best values on the market. It’s not the cheapest, but it’s the most thoughtful. From the dual-voltage support to the included wall charger and safety features, it’s clear the designers focused on real user needs.

I’ve recommended it to three friends, and they’ve all had similar success—especially during this past winter. One even used it to jump-start a neighbor’s car during a power outage. The peace of mind it brings is priceless. You’re not just buying a jump starter; you’re buying confidence.

If you’re on the fence, I’d say go for it. At $149.99, it’s a small investment for the safety and convenience it delivers. And with Costco’s generous return policy, you can test it risk-free. Just don’t wait until your car won’t start—grab one now, charge it, and tuck it in your trunk. You’ll thank yourself the first time you use it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the Type S Jump Starter at Costco Canada?

The Type S Jump Starter is competitively priced at Costco Canada, typically ranging between $80-$120 CAD, making it one of the best value portable jump starters for 2024. Prices may vary slightly depending on promotions or seasonal discounts.

Does the Type S Jump Starter from Costco Canada come with a warranty?

Yes, the Type S Jump Starter sold at Costco Canada includes a 1-year limited warranty, covering manufacturing defects and performance issues. Costco’s return policy also allows hassle-free exchanges within 90 days of purchase.

Can the Type S Jump Starter handle larger vehicles like trucks or SUVs?

The Type S Jump Starter is designed for most 12V vehicles, including trucks and SUVs with engines up to 6L (gas) or 3L (diesel). Its peak 1200A current ensures reliable performance, even in cold Canadian winters.

Where can I find the Type S Jump Starter at Costco Canada?

The Type S Jump Starter is available both in-store (automotive section) and online at Costco.ca, with stock varying by location. Check the product listing on Costco.ca for real-time inventory and shipping options.

Is the Type S Jump Starter worth buying compared to other brands?

With its 1200A power, built-in safety features, and compact design, the Type S Jump Starter offers excellent value at Costco Canada. It outperforms similarly priced models and is backed by Costco’s customer-friendly policies.

Does the Type S Jump Starter include USB ports for charging devices?

Yes, it features dual USB ports (5V/2.1A), allowing you to charge smartphones, tablets, or other electronics during emergencies. This multi-functionality adds to its appeal as a roadside essential.

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