If you have ever had a dead car battery, you probably have firsthand knowledge of how important a set of jumper cables can be. In fact, jumper cables are one of the most important items you should store in your car year-round. However, finding great jumper cables at a fair price is not as easy as it may sound. We made this guide to showcase some of the best jumper cables on the market to simplify your search.
How to Spot High-Quality Jumper Cables
Before shopping for new jumper cables, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the technology as well as the factors that will determine if a specific product will be ideal for your needs. To ensure that you pick the perfect jumper cables, pay close attention to a product’s cable length, cranking amperage, wire gauge, and materials.
- Cable Length: Let’s face it, you will typically not have a say in where your battery dies, so it won’t always be possible for a good Samaritan to park in front of your vehicle to give it a jump. Although longer jumper cables will typically cost more than shorter ones, it is always a good idea to plan ahead. If you choose jumper cables that are 20 feet long (or longer), you should have no problem hooking up to another vehicle, even in less-than-ideal parking positions.
- Cranking Amperage: A jumper cable’s cranking amperage will largely determine if it’s providing enough energy to revive a dead battery. Although most car batteries feature a 660-cranking-amps rating, most jumper cables with a 300-cranking-amperage rating will have no problem jumping a dead battery. However, large, heavy-duty vehicles may require more amps to get a battery working, so keep this in mind if you drive a large truck or SUV.
- Wire Gauge: This measures the thickness of a jumper cable’s wires, with 1-gauge being the most heavy-duty option and 6-gauge being the highest gauge rating that will work in most scenarios. While jumper cables above 6-gauge should generally be avoided, larger vehicles may need a heavy-duty option for optimal results, so look for 4-gauge or below if you drive one of them.
- Material: Pure copper construction is the gold standard when it comes to jumper cables, but nowadays, these products tend to be very expensive and exceedingly hard to find. However, copper-clad aluminum is a great option that will work like a charm and save you some money in the process. Also, look for a product that features a thick cable with plenty of insulation and large clamp heads for a stable connection.
Now that we’ve gone over some jumper cable basics, let’s check out the best ones you can buy today.
Top Pick: Cartman Booster Cables 4-Gauge
These 4-gauge Cartman booster cables feature much more than just a great price point. The color-coded clamps are as tight-gripping as they come, so you won’t have to worry about them slipping off your battery terminals. The cables themselves are long and tangle-free, and with 4-gauge aluminum wires, these cables are perfect for reviving the battery of even large, heavy-duty vehicles. Additionally, these cables are treated to resist below-freezing temperatures, making this product great for those who live in colder regions.
Best Value: Energizer Jumper Cables (16-Ft, 6-Gauge)
If cable size is not at the top of your list of needs, these Energizer Jumper Cables will give you the most bang for your buck. Featuring clamps that are ideal for top or side post hookups, these jumper cables sport a strong spring and secure grip that belies their budget price tag. The clamps are also vinyl-coated for protection against rust and corrosion, making this one of the most durable budget options out there. Given this product’s insanely low price, the high-quality storage case is a great add-on.
Best Heavy-Duty: TOPDC Jumper Cables 1-Gauge 25-FT
Heavy-duty jumper cables are a must for those with large, powerful vehicles and come in handy for people who live in cold climates. While these TOPDC jumper cables are a definite step up in terms of price, the reliability they provide is more than worth it. These cables feature 700A of power and durable 1-gauge construction. They are also long enough to be used in a myriad of parking positions and remain incredibly flexible in the coldest of temperatures. If you are looking for jumper cables with an extra-strong clamp spring that is able to give just about any vehicle a boost, this is the product for you.
Best Long-Length Cable: Kvsrr Booster Cables 30 Feet 1-Gauge
When your battery dies on the shoulder of the interstate, it’s important to have a set of jumper cables that will help you get a boost without jeopardizing anyone’s safety. These 30-foot long Kvsrr Booster Cables are made for this exact scenario. It certainly doesn’t hurt that they also feature heavy-duty 1-gauge construction, strong clamps, thick vinyl coating, and an impressive 1000 amps of cranking power. If cable length and quality are your aims, look no further for your new favorite jumper cables.
Best With Quick Connector: Energizer Jumper Cables, 30 feet, 1-Gauge
Jumper cables with a quick connector provide a simple means of disconnecting power to remote battery chargers and winches, among other things. Thus, it’s no wonder products like these extra-long Energizer Jumper Cables are a mainstay for roadside assistance vehicles and tow trucks. Featuring a thick vinyl coating, 800A of cranking power, and high-quality copper-clad aluminum construction, these 1-gauge cables are perfect for those who plan on getting serious use out of their new jumper cables. This product also features chemical, oil, and water-resistant PVC-insulated cables, making it a very durable pick for the money.
