The biggest dilemma when shopping from a reliable brand can sometimes be deciding between their equally impressive products.
Suppose you’re like me, a long-time fan of Clore Automotive’s Jump-N-Carry product lines. You must have been struggling to work out which jump starter is best for you.
Fret not, my friends. My credit card(s) has already done the heavy work buying and testing the JNC660, JNC770, and JNC950 for you. And now, I can confidently help you decide which one will best suit your needs.
JNC770 | JNC660 | JNC950 |
|
---|---|---|---|
Rating | |||
Price | |||
Peak Amps | 1700 Amps | 1700 Amps | 2000 Amps |
Dimension | 16.1 x 14.8 x 6.2 | 16.3 x 14.1 x 5.1 | 14.5 x 8 x 16 |
Weight | 23 pounds | 18 pounds | 34 pounds |
Battery | 22 Ah | 22 Ah | 35 Ah |
Cable Length | 68" | 46" | 46" |
12V Output | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
USB Output | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
Voltmeter | Digital | Analog | Analog |
My Score | 9.5 | 9.0 | 8.0 |
Jump-N-Carry series: Key things in common
Clore Automotive’s jump starters are regarded as heavy-duty products within the industry. These three models in my line-up aim at different buyers and feature different power ratings. They are highly recognized for their overall performance, quality construction, and value-for-money. I’ve selected these three Jump-N-Carry models for my comparison because they’re the best-selling and highest customer-rated Clore Automotive jump starters on the market.
Easy to use
Ease of operation is a key consideration for users of Clore Automotive’s jump starters. A voltmeter provides precise readings of their internal batteries.
- JNC660 & JNC950 have an analog version of the voltmeter
- JNC770 has a digital voltmeter, which is considered better for some people. For me, it’s just personal preference because both voltmeter variances display perfectly well.
All three models in my review line-up also share an overcharge protection function. These Jump-N-Carry models will automatically detect their battery’s capacities and shut off the charging procedure to prevent overcharging and potential damage.
But hard to break
Buyers of Clore Automotive’s Jump-N-Carry jump starters require a product that’s sturdy, reliable, and robust – and each of these models ticks those boxes. These jump starters’ design typifies that perfectly, they feature:
- Industrial-grade components
- Hard-wearing plastic shells and boots
- High-grade wiring materials
- Industrial-grade clamps with #2 AWG (American wire gauge) welding cable ensure that these jump starters can channel the highest possible power output. This type of wire gauge is heavy duty to handle high power outputs.
Friendly for all batteries
All three Jump-N-Carry jump starters are designed to be compatible with 12V batteries of just about all types. Furthermore, Clore Automotive’s jump starters are developed for the “heavy-duty” sector of the market, making this ideal for deep-cycle batteries too.
All models feature a 12V DC outlet to power accessories such as tire compressors, other workshop tools, and even smartphones. They’re all equipped with built-in chargers that are automatic functionality: simply connect them to your regular AC power supply and they will automatically recharge their internal batteries at the correct and exact voltage to maintain their full capacity.
JNC660 vs. JNC770 vs. JNC950: Detailed comparison & review
Clore Automotive has differentiated its Jump-N-Carry models with their designs and specifications. As I have already mentioned, they all might look similar in design, but you’ll spot their differences in design and power output when you examine each one individually.
Design and specifications
The JNC660 is offered in Clore Automotive’s signature blue color, while the JNC950 is presented in red.
The JNC770 is available in four color versions of blue, red, green, and orange. The different color options affect the pricing structure of this model too, and I’ll explain more about this later in this buying guide.
JNC 660 vs JNC770: When sizes doesn’t matter
In terms of specifications, features, and design, the JNC660 and JNC770 and JNC950 are actually quite different.
The smallest unit in my line-up is the JNC660 in terms of both size and specification. It weighs 18 lbs and measures 16.3” x 14.1” x 5.1”. To put that into perspective, that is larger than an A4 sheet of paper. Inside it houses a 22 Ah battery and it is equipped with 46” cable leads, an analog voltmeter, and a 12V DC power output socket to power smaller gadgets. This jump starter unit offers an impressive 1700 peak amps and 425 cranking amps to enable it to jump-start all passenger cars with ease.
The JNC770 offers the same 1700 peak amps, 425 cranking amps of power output, 12V DC power outlet, and internal 22 Ah battery as that of the JNC660. However, the JNC770’s features build on that of the JNC660: instead of 46” cable leads, the JNC770 has 68” cable leads with stronger PowerJaw clamps that provide enhanced clamping security. It also boasts a built-in 3A automatic charger, dual USB power outlets (for 2.1A and 1.1A charging) for small electronics such as smartphones and tablets.
Another key feature of the JNC770 is its master on/off switch to ensure the device is inactive when not in use. This model measures 16.1” x 14.8” x 6.2” and weighs 23 lbs. Setting the JNC770 further apart from the models in this review is the way in which its clamps attach and can be stored on the body of the device. Unlike the JNC660 and JNC950, the JNC770’s clamps have a dedicated plate on which the clamps attach to ensure that they do not create any sparking when not in use.
JNC950: When size does matter
With the largest dimensions measuring 14.5” x 8” x 16” and weighing 34 lbs. The JNC950 comprises its portability for larger power output. Inside sits a 35 Ah battery that provides users with the ability to perform more jump-starts. As with the JNC660, the JNC950 is equipped with 46” cable leads. This is a big drawback in my opinion. For a powerful unit like JNC950, having a shorter cable than something with less power like JNC770 is a questionable decision.
Clore Automotive has also fitted Hot Jaw clamps that provide a stronger and larger bite to connect onto battery terminals. This is because the JNC950 packs 2000 peak amps and 700 cranking amps, enabling it to jump-start just every type of vehicle battery no matter its size.
General uses
JNC660 & JNC770: Your friendly neighborhood patrols
The JNC660 and JNC770 are developed to jump start passenger vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and pickup trucks.
- JNC660 is best suited to people looking to buy peace of mind so that they would never be left stranded at the side of the road with this model stored in their car’s trunk.
- On the other hand, JNC770 offers even features like LED flashlight, digital voltmeter,… just to name a few. This unit is ideal for people that have two or more vehicles in their garage and would need to jump-start one of them regularly.
Now, I wouldn’t get too excited over that $100 coupon. It’s not the coupon itself worth $100; it means that you pay $100 and give up the coupon to get a brand new unit. It’s still a good deal, in my opinion. Because if your JNC770 is damaged for any reason, they will either recondition the unit or give you a brand new one, with 70% of its original price.
“Officer” JNC950: Reporting for heavy-duty
The Clore Automotive Jump-N-Carry models are already heavy-duty when compared with other jump starters on the market. However, JNC950 takes that to a whole new level. Trucks, heavy-duty vehicles, even commercial and industrial machinery, can all be jump-started by the JNC950.
While you can most definitely jump-start any regular family sedans, hatchbacks, SUVs, and pickup trucks with JNC950, its power output would be overkill for those uses. This device is ideal for mechanics, fleet maintenance companies, and industrial applications. What’s more, the JNC950 is ruggedly designed to withstand everyday use rigors in a workshop environment.
Extra features/functions
The JNC770 is equipped with added features that the JNC660 and JNC950 don’t:
- You’ll instantly notice that this model is equipped with an LED fleshlight right next to the grab handle. It is handy to help you spot the correct battery terminals.
- This model is also equipped with 68” cable leads to enable you to place the jump starter on the floor and the cables will still reach the battery.
- And last but not least, it boasts a built-in 3A automatic charger to allow for faster recharging time.
While the JNC660 and JNC950 are equipped with analog voltmeters, the JNC770 has a digital voltmeter display. Now, whether digital is better than analog or not is still up to debate. But if you’re an old-school mechanic like I am, you will definitely appreciate the analog voltmeter more.
How long do they take to recharge itself on an average?
These Jump-N-Carry models can be recharged through two methods: with a 120V AC wall supply or with a 12V DC socket charger (which is supplied with each model). The charging times vary according to the charging method used.
- When connected to a wall power supply, you can expect it to take between 16-24 hours to charge fully. For the initial charges, the devices require 36 hours of charging for their first charge cycles.
- If you recharge your Jump-N-Carry jump starter with a 12V DC power source, it will take between 5-8 hours to charge fully.
The JNC660 and JNC770 have 22 Ah internal batteries that can charge quickly, while the JNC950’s 35 Ah battery requires a longer charging time because of its far larger battery capacity.
How do they fare on prices?
How do they compete on prices? It should come as no surprise to you when I state the JNC950 is the most expensive model in my line-up. In fact, it is almost double the price of the JNC660. It does, after all, feature an internal battery that is near twice the size too.
The JNC660 is the most affordable unit, while the JNC770 is priced in between these two models.
In comparison with the JNC660, the JNC770 offers more practical features for only a slightly increased price. This makes it a better value for money proposition than the JNC660.
What might seem like a heavy sticker price for the JNC950, it packs almost twice the power for a little less than twice the price when compared to JNC660. JNC950 is here on a daily basis for heavy-duty vehicles and industrial machinery. However, in this review, its price scores low points because not everyone will require that much power.
What’s the deal with JNC770B, JNC770R, JNC770O, and JNC770G?
Another good aspect of JNC770 is that it comes in four different color variations. Yeah, you don’t see that often when buying a jump starter, do you? Now, before you scratch your head about which product is which color, the extra letter is just the initial for the color:
- JNC770B: Blue
- JNC770R: Red
- JNC770G: Green
- JNC770O: Orange
While there are technically no differences in power, features, or specifications, all have different pricing. The Red one – JNC770R is the cheapest, and thus, the most reasonable one to pick.
The JNC770O (Orange) is way too expensive compared to the red-colored version, followed closely by the Green one. So I would suggest you steer clear of these two models unless you are an enthusiast Clore Automotive enjoyer who’s trying to collect them all colors.
The Blue version is alright. It’s only slightly more expensive than the red-colored. I can tell Clore Automotive was going for the JNC660 nostalgia with this model.
For value for money – and my recommendation – the red JNC770R is the best to choose if you’re looking to buy the JNC770 model, thanks to its more affordable price.
Which one should you buy?
If you want the best Jump-N-Carry unit that Clore Automotive has ever made
Pros
- Has master on/off switch
- 68″ cables
- Digital display
- Has Built-in LED flashlight
- Comes in many color variants
Cons
- Clamps can be difficult to attach to non-vehicle batteries such as ATVs
I recommend the JNC770 as the best product in this review. It offers the most value for money thanks to its stacked features. Oh, and did I mention that they also have four different colors to pick from? Just make sure to choose the right color when buying because their prices can increase drastically, depends on your choice.
But don’t worry, you’re not in Mission Impossible. No bombs are going to blow up just because you pick the wrong color; only your bank account will. All you need to remember is that Orange and Green are bad. Blue is alright. And Red is the best.
If you want an affordable unit that stood through time
Pros
- Most affordable model
- Simple and user-friendly design
- Very thin unit, easy to store
Cons
- Lacks master on/off switch
- No flashlight
While the JNC770 is amazing, JNC660 is still Clore Automotive’s best-selling unit for valid reasons:
- It’s cheap, but it does its job.
- It’s good, and it won’t let you down.
And that’s the reason why JNC660 follows a close second in my lineup today. It is a fantastic choice for those who plan on having a jump starter for emergencies.
If power is the name of your game
Pros
- Overload protection function
- Heavy-duty and rugged design
- Hot Jaw clamps
- Huge battery capacity
Cons
- Lack of master on/off switch
- No flashlight
- 46″ cables length is unacceptable
The JNC950 is suited to professionals and fleet maintenance operators. It is one of the most highly rated heavy-duty jump starters on the market. But for the average vehicle owners, JNC950 is probably too expensive and has so much power that most people will not even use half of its potential.
Conclusion
And that’s the end of my review and buying guide today. I hope after reading these, you will make the right decision when buying a jump starter from Clore Automotive.
Let me know in the comment which one did you pick today!
Read more: NOCO GB50 vs. GB40 vs. GB70: Choose the best jump starter for your road trip »
FAQs
1. What’s the difference between battery chargers and jump starters?
Jump starters provide a quick boost of power to enable a low-battery vehicle to start. Battery chargers, on the other hand, can charge said vehicle battery to full.
A battery charger is a full-measure solution to a dead battery. But a jump starter will get your car back on the road in an emergency.
2. How many jump starts can I get from a single charge?
It depends, but you can expect between 20 – 50 jump starts.
3. How often should I recharge my jump starter?
Even though some jump starters can hold many charges, you should recharge them after each use and once every six months.
4. Should I leave the jump starter connected to my car’s battery after the engine has started to further boost the car battery?
No. It could damage both the jump starter and the vehicle’s battery.