NOCO GB40 vs GBX45 : Which One Should You Choose?

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Written By Ali Uxama

Ali Uxama has over 15 years of hands-on experience in the automotive world and runs a trusted workshop in Maryland that’s served over 2,000 happy customers. When he’s not under the hood of a car, Ali loves sharing practical tips and honest reviews through his blogs on Smart Budget Reviews.

Fellows, if you’ve ever been stuck with a dead car battery, you know how frustrating it is. That’s why choosing the right jump starter matters, and today, we’re diving into NOCO GB40 vs GBX45. I’ve used both, and while the GB40 is great for standard cars, the GBX45 packs extra power for bigger engines. Let’s break down which one suits you best!

Which NOCO Jump Starter is Best for My Vehicle?

Best Jump Starter for Your Engine Size: If your vehicle has a gas engine up to 6.0L or diesel up to 3.0L, the NOCO GB40 (1000A) is a solid choice. For larger vehicles with gas engines up to 6.5L or diesel up to 4.0L, the GBX45 (1250A) delivers more power and faster USB-C charging. Check out the Emergency Power Booster for reliable performance.

NOCO GB40 vs GBX45: Key Differences Explained

NOCO GB40 vs GBX45: Key Differences Explained

1. Power & Engine Compatibility

  • NOCO GB40 – 1,000A peak current, supports 6.0L gas and 3.0L diesel engines. Ideal for cars, motorcycles, ATVs, and small boats.
  • NOCO GBX45 – High-Power Jump Starter – Delivers 1,250A peak current, supporting 6.5L gas and 4.0L diesel engines. Perfect for SUVs, trucks, and larger vehicles.

2. Charging Speed & Battery Performance

  • GB40Micro-USB charging, takes 3-4 hours to fully charge.
  • GBX45USB-C fast charging, recharges in 1.5-2 hours.

3. Portability & Weight

  • GB402.4 lbs, compact and easy to store.
  • GBX452.7 lbs, slightly heavier but more durable.

4. Extra Features

  • Both include a LED flashlight with multiple modes.
  • GBX45 – Enhanced Features for Convenience – Equipped with a brighter LED and faster USB charging for on-the-go power. Explore our guide on how to jump-start a vehicle with a dead battery for more essential tips.

NOCO GB40 Review – Best 1000A Jump Starter

NOCO GB40 Review – Best 1000A Jump Starter

NOCO Boost Plus GB40 Reliable 1000A Jump Starter – If you’re tired of dead car batteries, this powerful lithium jump starter delivers quick and reliable starts in seconds. Check out our guide on the best DBPOWER jump starters for more top-rated options.

Designed for gas engines up to 6.0L and diesel engines up to 3.0L, the NOCO GB40 is a must-have for everyday drivers, adventurers, and roadside emergencies. This jump starter offers reliability, a compact design, and powerful capabilities, making it ideal for situations when your engine starts after a jump but doesn’t start again. Check out more on Engine Starts After Jump But Doesn’t Start Again.

  • Peak Current: 1000 Amps
  • Battery Type: Lithium-ion
  • Compatible Engines: Up to 6.0L gas, 3.0L diesel
  • Dimensions: 4.61″ D x 8.19″ W x 4.21″ H

Notable Features:

  • UltraSafe Technology – Spark-proof and reverse polarity protection for foolproof operation.
  • Multi-Function Use – Works as a jump starter, power bank, and LED flashlight.
  • Fast Charging – Fully recharges in just 3 hours via USB at 2.1A.
  • Rugged & Water-ResistantIP65-rated enclosure with a rubberized casing for durability.

Pros:

  • Compact and lightweight, easy to store in any vehicle.
  • Provides up to 20 jump starts per charge.
  • Built-in 100-lumen LED flashlight with emergency strobe and SOS modes.
  • USB power bank for charging phones and devices.

Cons:

  • Not powerful enough for heavy-duty diesel trucks over 3.0L.

What’s Included in the Box?

  • NOCO GB40 UltraSafe Portable Car Jump Starter
  • Heavy-Duty Battery Clamps
  • 12-Volt Car Charger
  • Micro USB Charging Cable
  • Microfiber Storage Bag
  • User Guide
  • 1-Year Limited Warranty

NOCO GBX45 Review: Powerful 1250A Jump Starter for Cars & Trucks

NOCO GBX45 Review: Powerful 1250A Jump Starter for Cars & Trucks

NOCO Boost X GBX45 – High-Power Jump Starter – With 1,250A peak current, this portable powerhouse revives 6.5L gas and 4.0L diesel engines in seconds. If you’re looking for an efficient and powerful booster, this is a solid option. Learn more about it in the booster guide.

This jump starter is built for extreme performance. When comparing NOCO GB40 vs GBX45, you’ll see that both offer impressive features, but with USB-C fast charging and UltraSafe 2.0 technology, it’s more than just a jump starter it’s a reliable power bank for your devices and a must-have for any roadside emergency.

  • Amperage: 1250A Peak Output
  • Battery Type: Lithium-ion
  • Vehicle Compatibility: Up to 6.5L gas & 4.0L diesel engines
  • Charging Time: Full recharge in 48 minutes, 5-minute quick boost

Top Features:

  • Extreme Jump-Starting Power – Designed to handle bigger engines with ease.
  • Turbo Chargeable – USB-C fast charging delivers a full recharge in under 48 minutes.
  • Multi-Device Charging – 60W USB-C power delivery for phones, tablets, and laptops.
  • UltraSafe 2.0 Technology – Spark-proof, reverse polarity protection, and enhanced battery efficiency.
  • Versatile Use – Works on cars, trucks, motorcycles, boats, ATVs, SUVs, RVs, and more.

Pros:

  • Powerful 1250A output for heavy-duty jump-starting.
  • Lightning-fast USB-C charging for both the jump starter and connected devices.
  • Built-in 100-lumen LED flashlight with multiple modes (SOS, strobe).
  • Compact and portable design for easy storage and travel.

Con:

  • Slightly Heavier but More Powerful – While less convenient for ultra-light travel, this jump starter offers extra power and reliability.

What’s in the Box?

  • GBX45 UltraSafe Portable Lithium Jump Starter & Power Bank
  • Heavy-Duty Jumper Cable Clamps
  • USB-C Charging Cable
  • Microfiber Storage Bag
  • 1-Year Warranty

Performance & Portability: Which One Fits Your Needs?

Performance & Portability: Which One Fits Your Needs?

Power & Jump-Starting Ability

  • GB40: Delivers 1000A peak current, jump-starting up to 6.0L gas and 3.0L diesel engines. Works well for small cars, SUVs, motorcycles, and boats.
  • GBX45: Packs 1250A peak current, handling up to 6.5L gas and 4.0L diesel engines. Ideal for larger SUVs, trucks, and colder weather conditions.
  • Cold Weather Performance: The GBX45’s extra 250A makes it more reliable in freezing temperatures.

Charging Speed

  • GB40: Charges in 3-4 hours using a standard USB.
  • GBX45: Charges 2x faster with USB-C fast charging, fully recharging in just 1.7 hours.

Size & Portability

  • GB40: Compact at 6.7 inches, weighs 2.4 lbs (1.1 kg), easy to store in a glove box.
  • GBX45: Slightly bigger at 7.7 inches, weighs 2.8 lbs (1.3 kg), still portable but a bit heavier.

Build Quality

Both models are rugged and durable, made from high-impact plastic to withstand drops and tough conditions. The GBX45 has a stronger structure, making it more durable for long-term use.

Which One Should You Choose?

  • Choose GB40 if you need a lightweight, budget-friendly jump starter for small to mid-size vehicles.
  • Choose GBX45 if you want more power, faster charging, and better cold-weather performance, especially for larger vehicles.

Safety Features, Usage Precautions & Maintenance

Alright buddy, here’s what you need to know: NOCO GB40 and GBX45 are packed with safety tech to keep things smooth and risk-free.

Safety Features

  • Reverse Polarity Protection – No sparks if you mix up the clamps, it stops automatically.
  • Overcharge & Overcurrent Protection – Keeps your battery safe, no risk of overload.
  • Auto Shutoff – Turns off when not in use to save power.
  • Temperature Control – GBX45 handles extreme weather (-4°F to 122°F) better.
  • Short-Circuit Protection – Prevents damage if cables touch by mistake.

Quick Safety Tips

  • Charge it fully before storing don’t risk a dead jump starter.
  • Red = Positive (+), Black = Negative (-) get it right, avoid trouble.
  • Keep it dry:not waterproof, so use in a covered area.
  • Store it smart:avoid direct sun or freezing temps (kills battery life by 30%).
  • Keep away from fire hazards no gas, oil, or flammable stuff nearby.

Simple Maintenance Tips

  • Charge at least every 3 months—even if you don’t use it.
  • Clean the clamps—wipe off dirt or corrosion for a solid connection.
  • Avoid full discharges—don’t let the battery drain completely.
  • Store in a cool, dry place—extreme heat or cold damages battery life.
  • Check cables regularly—loose or frayed wires? Time for a replacement.

Which One Should You Buy?

When it comes to NOCO GB40 vs GBX45, the choice is simple! If you drive a car, motorcycle, or small vehicle, the GB40 (1000A) is affordable, lightweight, and reliable. But if you’ve got a truck, SUV, or something bigger, the GBX45 (1250A) gives you more power and charges twice as fast with USB-C. For everyday drivers, GB40 is a solid pick, but if you need extra strength and speed, the GBX45 is worth it! This GB40 vs GBX45 comparison makes it clear GB40 is great for smaller vehicles, while GBX45 is built for tougher jobs.


Conclusion

Both the NOCO GB40 and GBX45 are great, but it all comes down to your vehicle and power needs. The GB40 is perfect for everyday drivers, while the GBX45 packs more power and faster charging for bigger vehicles. Pick what fits your ride, and you’ll never be stuck with a dead battery again.

FAQs 

Q1. Which is better, NOCO GB40 or GBX45?

Because GBX45 has more power (1250A), it’s better for larger vehicles. GB40 is a great pick for small cars, motorcycles, and ATVs.

Q2. Can NOCO GB40 jump-start a dead battery?

It can, but extremely drained batteries may require override mode. For bigger engines or tougher conditions, the GBX45 is a better choice.

Q3. Does the NOCO GBX45 charge faster than the GB40?

Yes, because it has USB-C fast charging, making it twice as fast. This means less waiting time and quicker readiness for emergencies.

Q4. How many jump-starts can NOCO GB40 and GBX45 provide on a full charge?

Because GBX45 has a larger battery, it can do around 30 jump-starts. The GB40 provides up to 20, which is enough for smaller vehicles.

Q5. Is NOCO GBX45 worth the extra cost over GB40?

It is if you need more power, faster charging, and extra safety. But for small cars and budget-conscious buyers, GB40 works just fine.