Lithium jump starter or lead acid

Yes, lithium-ion jump starters have more advantages going for them than their lead-acid counterparts. To be honest, there really isn’t much of a debate here. Lithium jump starters are better. Here is why...

Benefits of Lithium Jump Starters

  • Smaller Size– Lithium has a much higher energy density than lead. This increased power potential allows for a much smaller sample to produce the same amount of power. Some of the smaller lithium jumpstarters can fit in your pocket!

  • Not as Heavy – Lithium weighs a fraction the weight of lead. The weight savings to a comparable lead acid jump starter can be as higher as 70%.

  • Retains Charge Longer – The natural discharge rate of lithium is incredibly slower than lead. A lead-acid based jumper can lose its ability to function after 3-6 months in storage. Lithium jump starters can be viable up to two years later.

Let’s face it, if your jump starter is solely intended to be used for emergency operations, it will be stowed away in some compartment in your vehicle and forgotten about. When the time comes, don’t you want it to be able to perform?

Gone are the days of lifting a heavy bulky device into the engine compartment only to discover the lead-acid jump starter is also dead.

The simple fact that lithium retains its charge far longer than lead-acid coupled with lazy/forgetful human behavior makes a lithium jump starter hands down the best option.

Bells and Whistles

There are several other bells and whistles built into these devices. Most have some sort of flashlight with an SOS signal. Many will have the ability to be charged by USB input or 12-volt power socket (cigarette lighter adapter).

But probably the most used feature, especially by females and kids, is the power bank function via the USB output port.

Because these lithium jump starters are so small, they are extremely portable and easily carried in purses. They also do not take up much room and can be left in the back seat for the kids to use on those long family road-trips.

Aside from these common features, there is one type of jump starter that is a step above the rest.

What Type of Jump Starter is Best?

There is another element that should be factored to determine what makes the best jump starter. It is a deviation from the lithium vs lead acid debate. This feature encompasses ultimate functionality.

The best jump starter must be one with a built-in air compressor. Indeed, a jump starter with air compressor will provide way more bang for your buck!

You are more likely to experience a deflated or flat tire than a dead battery.

Our favorite jumpstarter with air compressor is the Lokithor JA301.

Lokithor JA301

Our selection for best lithium jumpstarter with air compressor.
  1. Lokithor JA301 Jumpstarter with Air Compressor
    Lokithor 150 PSI Air Compressor Jump Starter 2000 Amp Combo
    Special Price $123.00 Regular Price $169.00
    Add to Wish List Add to Compare
  • The JA301 is compact, yet capable of inflating 5 car sized tires with one charge.

    Even though the unit is small, it can produce 150 PSI. That translates to being able inflate anything from bicycle tires all the way up to semi-truck and tractor tires.

  • Yes, as a jump starter it has amazing power as well.

    It is suitable for gasoline engines under 8.0L and diesel engines under 6.0 liter. So pretty-well any passenger vehicle on the road today.

  • An often-overlooked feature that may seem innocuous is the JA301’s handle. Yep, a silly handle!


While we were testing this unit it was surprising how often we grabbed the handle. It felt more secure in our hands. It made the flashlight feature more natural to use. While inflating our tires it simply made it feel like a worthy tool designed with purpose.

Crazy, right? Out of all the important features like 2000A crank and 150 PSI we were most floored by the simplest of things—a functional well-designed handle!

Conclusion

To conclude, we strongly feel lithium jump starters are better than lead acid jump starters. And to take it one step further the best type, is a lithium jump starter with air compressor.