How Does the NOCO Boost Plus GB40 Jump Starter Compare in Cranking Amps?
What Are Cranking Amps and Why Do They Matter for Jump Starters?
Cranking Amps (CA) measure a battery’s ability to start an engine in cold temperatures, typically at 32°F. For jump starters like the NOCO Boost Plus GB40, higher CA ratings ensure reliable performance in harsh conditions. The GB40 delivers 1,000 CA, sufficient for gasoline engines up to 6 liters and diesel engines up to 3 liters, balancing power and portability.
While CA measures performance at 32°F, Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) tests at 0°F. The GB40’s 1,000 CA equates to approximately 800 CCA, placing it mid-range between compact jump starters (500-700 CCA) and heavy-duty units (1,500+ CCA). This makes it ideal for drivers in regions with moderate winters. For extreme cold, NOCO offers the GBX155 (1,700 CA) with heated clamps. The table below compares cranking performance across vehicle types:
| Vehicle Type | Required CA | GB40 Success Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Sedan (4-cyl) | 400-600 | 98% |
| SUV (V6) | 700-900 | 92% |
| Light Truck (V8) | 1,000-1,200 | 85% |
Can the NOCO GB40 Charge Devices Beyond Jump-Starting Cars?
Yes, the GB40 doubles as a power bank with two USB-A ports (5V/3A) for phones, tablets, and laptops. It also features a 12V USB-C port for faster charging. However, frequent device charging reduces its jump-starting capacity, so prioritize emergency use.
The 6,000mAh battery provides 2-3 full smartphone charges or 1.5 iPad charges. When using all three ports simultaneously, total output drops to 4A shared across devices. For optimal performance, NOCO recommends reserving at least 50% charge for jump-starting. Below are typical charging times:
| Device | Capacity | Charge Time |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 15 | 3,349mAh | 1h 40m |
| Samsung Galaxy S23 | 3,900mAh | 2h 10m |
| iPad Pro | 7,600mAh | Partial (80%) |
What Safety Features Protect the NOCO GB40 During Use?
The GB40 includes spark-proof clamps, reverse polarity protection, and overcurrent shutdown. Its thermal-resistant casing prevents overheating, and an automatic voltage detection system adjusts output to match the vehicle’s needs. These features minimize risks of short circuits or battery damage, making it safer than traditional jumper cables.
12V 90Ah LiFePO4 Car Starting Battery CCA 1300A
How Long Does the GB40’s Battery Last Between Charges?
The 6,000mAh lithium battery retains 80% charge after 12 months in storage. On a full charge, it can jump-start up to 20 vehicles consecutively under ideal conditions. Regular use requires recharging every 3–6 months via the included USB-C cable, which takes 3 hours for a full charge.
12V 80Ah LiFePO4 Car Starting Battery CCA 1200A
Expert Views
“Redway’s testing confirms the GB40’s 1,000 CA outperforms most compact jump starters,” says a Redway engineer. “Its true innovation lies in UltraSafe technology—a multi-stage voltage control that adapts to sulfated batteries. While runtime is limited for diesel engines, it’s unmatched for everyday drivers needing reliability in emergencies.”
Conclusion
The NOCO Boost Plus GB40 combines high cranking amps with portability and safety, making it ideal for most vehicles. While not suited for commercial fleets requiring 2,000+ CA, its blend of power, device charging, and rugged design justifies its premium price for personal use.
12V 100Ah LiFePO4 Car Starting Battery CCA 1000A
FAQ
- Q: Can the GB40 start a completely dead battery?
- A: Yes, but only if the battery voltage is above 1V. Below that, NOCO recommends using their Boost HD models.
- Q: Is the GB40 waterproof?
- A: No—it’s water-resistant (IP67) but shouldn’t be submerged.
- Q: Does cold weather reduce its performance?
- A: Yes, below -20°F, cranking amps drop by 15%. Store it indoors in winter.