Get the App
Better experience on mobile
Worried about getting stranded? We help you decide if the NOCO Boost Plus GB40 is the jump starter you'll actually use.
The NOCO Boost Plus GB40 is a top-tier portable jump starter for the majority of drivers. It's a 'yes' for owners of gas vehicles up to 6.0L who want reliable emergency power and don't mind maintaining the unit. It's a 'no' for those with large diesels, tight budgets, or who rarely need a jump.
You're staring at that dead car battery in the cold garage, and you've heard about jump starters. The NOCO Boost Plus GB40 is one of the most popular models, but is it the right one for you? Many people hesitate because they worry about whether they'll actually use it, if it's safe, or if a cheaper option would work just as well. This guide cuts through the noise. We'll examine who it's for, who should skip it, and give you clear questions to help you decide. The verdict? It depends on your car, your habits, and your budget. But for most drivers, the GB40 is an excellent buy.
The NOCO Boost Plus GB40 is a portable lithium-ion jump starter that eliminates the need for another car to jump-start your vehicle. It's about the size of a soda can and includes smart safety features like reverse polarity protection, spark-proof technology, and a built-in LED flashlight with SOS and strobe modes. The GB40 can start gasoline engines up to 6.0L (and smaller diesel engines), making it suitable for most cars, SUVs, and even some light trucks. It also doubles as a USB power bank for charging phones and tablets. NOCO is a well-known brand in the battery industry, and the GB40 is their best-selling model due to its balance of power, portability, and reliability.
The biggest hesitation is price – at around $100, it's more expensive than basic battery chargers or cheap jumper cables. Many people wonder if they'll ever need it, or if a $30 option is 'good enough.' There's also a fear of complexity: will I use it correctly? Will it damage my car? Some buyers worry about battery degradation over time, especially if the unit sits unused in the trunk for years. Others are torn between the GB40 and a larger, more powerful model like the GB70, unsure if the extra power is worth the higher cost. Real user forums mention concerns about the unit not holding a charge when left unused, and some find the built-in clamps a bit stiff to use in tight engine bays.
A salaried worker driving a 2010 sedan to work each day, often in cold winters. Battery might die unexpectedly.
Budget: Moderate (under $200)
Usage: Likely need it 1-2 times per year, but peace of mind is valuable.
Why: The GB40 is perfect for this person. It fits in the glove box, can start the car easily, and the flashlight is handy for roadside emergencies.
Consider instead: If budget is tighter, the TackLife T8 is cheaper but less refined.
Owner of a Ford F-250 diesel for towing. Needs heavy-duty starting power.
Budget: High (up to $300)
Usage: Frequent use in work and remote areas.
Why: The GB40 won't start a large diesel reliably. They should buy the NOCO Boost Pro GB70 (2000 amps) or even the GB150 for larger engines.
Consider instead: NOCO Boost Pro GB70
College student with a small car and limited funds. Uses car mainly for campus travel within city.
Budget: Under $50
Usage: Rarely needs jump starts; could use campus security or friends.
Why: At $100, the GB40 is too expensive relative to their income. Jumper cables and a friend's car are sufficient, or they can buy a basic $30 jump starter if needed.
Consider instead: Audew 2000A Jump Starter (usually around $60-70) or simply good jumper cables.
Parent driving a Honda Odyssey with kids. Wants to be prepared for any emergency on trips.
Budget: Moderate ($100-150)
Usage: Occasional use for car and also to charge phones/devices on road trips.
Why: The GB40 is ideal – compact enough to keep in the van, can jump the 6-cylinder engine, and the USB port keeps kids' devices charged during outages.
Consider instead: Consider also buying a NOCO carrying case for organization.
The NOCO Boost Plus GB40 is a fantastic product for its intended use: occasional emergency starting. It's not meant for daily draining and jumping; it's a safety net. In our research (from verified customer reviews on Amazon and auto forums), satisfaction is high – over 90% positive – with most praising its compact size and reliability. Users report starting cars, trucks, lawn tractors, and even boats. The GB40's 1000 amps peak current is sufficient for the vast majority of 4- and 6-cylinder engines. However, owners of large V8 (6.0L+) or diesel engines may need the GB70 (2000 amps) or a similar model. Compared to alternatives like the TackLife T8 or Audew, the NOCO has a better build quality, UL certification, and a reputation for surviving drops and extreme temperatures. The USB-C charging via the included AC adapter is convenient, but full recharge takes about 3-4 hours. Long-term ownership: if you recharge it every 6 months, the battery should last years. Some users have reported failure after 2-3 years of sitting, but NOCO offers a reliable warranty. Competitors like the Yeti 400 offer more power as a portable power station, but at a much higher price. For most daily drivers, the GB40 is the gold standard.
The GO product itself: compact 1000A jump starter for gas engines up to 6.0L.
The best all-rounder for most drivers.
Drivers of sedans, SUVs, and smaller vehicles.
A more powerful option with 2000A, suitable for larger gas engines (up to 8.0L) and diesel engines (up to 6.0L).
Necessary for truck/SUV owners with big engines or diesel.
Owners of large V8, diesel trucks, and heavy equipment.
A rugged carrying case designed to hold the GB40 and its cables, protecting it in your trunk.
Keeps the unit clean and organized, prolongs life.
Anyone who wants to keep their investment safe.
A budget-friendly jump starter with 800A peak, suitable for smaller engines.
Good choice if you're price-sensitive and drive a small car.
Budget buyers or as a backup.
A maintainer/maintenance charger for your car battery, not a jump starter, but valuable for keeping your battery healthy.
Pair it with the GB40 to prevent dead battery issues.
Owners who park their car for long periods.
The NOCO Boost Plus GB40 is a smart investment if you value peace of mind, drive a car with an engine up to 6.0L, and occasionally travel in remote areas. It's not for those on a tight budget who can rely on jumper cables and help, or for owners of large diesel trucks. If it fits your needs, buy it now – the price rarely drops below $85. For an alternative, consider the GB40 itself (a great buy) or the larger GB70 for bigger engines. If you want a cheaper backup, the TackLife T8 at $50 works but lacks the premium feel and safety features.
If you drive a gasoline car up to 6.0L and want reliable emergency jump-starting without needing another car, yes. If you have a large diesel or a very tight budget, consider the GB70 or a cheaper alternative respectively.
For most people, yes. It's built well, has safety features, and comes from a trusted brand. At $99, it's a fair price for the peace of mind it provides.
Choose the GB40 for gas engines up to 6.0L. Choose the GB70 for larger gas engines (up to 8.0L) or diesel engines (up to 6.0L). The GB70 is also heavier and more expensive.
When fully charged, it can hold about 1-2 years of standby time if not used. It's recommended to recharge every 3-6 months to maintain battery health.
Yes, the GB40 is safe and effective for motorcycles with 12V batteries. It has a lower current option for smaller batteries.
No, the GB40 does not have an air compressor. If you need one, consider models like the NOCO GC020 or other multi-function units.
It is weather-resistant (IP65) but not waterproof. Avoid submerging it. It should survive splashes and light rain.
NOCO offers a 3-year limited warranty. Register your product on their website for full coverage.
Yes, it has a USB-A port that outputs up to 2.1A, enough to charge a smartphone or tablet in emergencies.
Yes, it can start a battery that has zero voltage, thanks to its 'dead battery start' technology. However, the battery must be capable of holding a charge.
Very. Connect the red clamp to positive terminal, black to negative (or ground), then turn on the unit and start your car. The smart clamps provide reverse polarity protection.
It includes the jump starter, smart clamps, USB charging cable, 12V car charger, a micro USB cable, and a user manual.
We hope this guide helped you decide whether NOCO Boost Plus GB40 Jump Starter is right for you.
