NOCO Boost GB150 jump starter review

Overview

The NOCO Boost GB150 is a high-output portable jump starter aimed at vehicles that demand more than a compact emergency pack can provide. It ranks #8 in our list of the top 10 best-selling portable jump starters on Amazon UK, with a score of 8.6/10 and our Best for farm and workshop use award. Its 3,000A peak-current rating and claimed compatibility with engines up to 9.0L petrol or 7.0L diesel put it in a different class from smaller packs such as the NOCO GB40. The GB70 ranks higher as our overall pick, while the GB150 is the more specialised choice for larger engines and repeated use. Its premium positioning and substantial size mean it is not the obvious option for every car boot.

Features and specification

The listing claims up to 80 starts per charge, though actual results will depend on the vehicle, battery condition and operating circumstances. A built-in voltmeter gives a quick way to check battery voltage, while spark-proof and reverse-polarity protection are designed to help prevent common connection mistakes. As with any booster, follow the supplied instructions and check connections before use.

It also has USB and 12V outputs, plus a 500-lumen LED torch with several modes, including SOS. The rugged housing is rated IP65, offering protection against dust and water jets, but that does not make the unit submersible. Recharging is listed as taking three hours using the 12V input; owner feedback suggests USB charging can take considerably longer. At about 34.8 x 20.8 x 12.5cm and 3.4kg, it is portable enough to move between vehicles, but bulky compared with smaller jump starters. It uses USB rather than USB-C for charging, so the GBX45 may suit buyers who prioritise faster USB-C charging.

What owners say

Owner feedback often centres on the GB150’s ability to start large vehicles, including vans, 4x4s and agricultural machinery. Several describe it as having plenty of power in reserve, and some say it has started vehicles after smaller boosters struggled. Buyers also appreciate the voltmeter, straightforward connections and the convenience of carrying a lithium pack instead of a traditional lead-acid booster.

There are caveats. Some owners find the unit larger than expected, and charging can be slow when using USB. A complaint about the pack losing charge after only a couple of starts also underlines the importance of keeping it charged and checking its condition rather than assuming the claimed maximum applies in every situation. Experiences are not uniform, so treat the “up to 80 starts” figure as a listing claim, not a guarantee.

Who should buy it

The GB150 makes most sense for owners of vans, large 4x4s, tractors or other working vehicles, and for workshops that want a powerful booster available for occasional or repeated starting duties. The display, protective features and extra outputs add useful versatility, although they do not remove the need to use it correctly and maintain its charge.

If you mainly drive a small petrol car, it is likely more pack than you need; a smaller model will be easier to store and carry. It is also a poor fit if you want USB-C charging or a genuinely glovebox-sized unit. For larger vehicles where starting capacity matters more than compactness, the NOCO Boost GB150 is worth considering, provided you accept its premium positioning and bulk.