Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the NOCO GBX85, a beast of a jump starter that's making waves in the automotive world. If you've ever been stranded with a dead battery, you know the importance of a reliable jump starter. The GBX85 promises serious power and a host of features, so let's find out if it lives up to the hype. This comprehensive review will cover everything you need to know, from its specifications and features to real-world performance and comparisons with other jump starters. Whether you're a seasoned mechanic, an avid road tripper, or just someone who wants peace of mind in case of a battery emergency, this guide is for you. We'll break down the technical jargon, share our hands-on experiences, and help you decide if the NOCO GBX85 is the right jump starter for your needs. So, buckle up and let’s get started!

What is the NOCO GBX85?

The NOCO GBX85 is a portable lithium jump starter designed to quickly and safely jump-start vehicles with up to 8-liter gasoline engines and 6-liter diesel engines. It's part of NOCO's Boost X series, known for its ultra-safe technology and impressive power output. The GBX85 boasts a 1750-amp starting current, making it suitable for a wide range of vehicles, including cars, trucks, SUVs, boats, and more. Unlike traditional lead-acid jump starters, the GBX85 uses lithium-ion technology, which allows for a more compact and lightweight design without sacrificing power. This jump starter is not just about brute force; it's also packed with smart features like reverse polarity protection, spark-proof technology, and a built-in LED flashlight. These features make it user-friendly and safe for both experienced mechanics and first-time users. The GBX85 is designed to be more than just a jump starter; it's a versatile tool that can also charge your USB devices, making it a valuable companion for road trips, camping adventures, and everyday emergencies. Its robust construction and advanced safety features make it a top contender in the portable jump starter market. We'll delve into each of these aspects in more detail throughout this review, providing you with a thorough understanding of what the NOCO GBX85 has to offer.

Key Features and Specifications

The NOCO GBX85 is loaded with features that set it apart from the competition. Let's break down the key specifications and features that make this jump starter a powerhouse:

• Starting Current: The GBX85 delivers a peak starting current of 1750 amps. This high amperage ensures it can jump-start even large engines with ease.
• Engine Compatibility: It's designed for gasoline engines up to 8 liters and diesel engines up to 6 liters, covering a broad spectrum of vehicles.
• Lithium-Ion Battery: The lithium-ion battery technology provides a high power-to-weight ratio, making the GBX85 compact and lightweight.
• UltraSafe Technology: NOCO's UltraSafe technology includes spark-proof protection and reverse polarity protection, ensuring safe and foolproof operation.
• USB Power Bank: It features a USB port that can be used to charge smartphones, tablets, and other USB devices, adding to its versatility.
• LED Flashlight: A built-in 200-lumen LED flashlight with multiple modes (including SOS and strobe) provides illumination in emergencies.
• Recharge Time: The GBX85 can be fully recharged in about 3 hours using the included USB-C charging cable.
• Compact Design: Its compact size makes it easy to store in your glove compartment, trunk, or toolbox.
• Rugged Construction: The durable housing is designed to withstand the rigors of everyday use and harsh environments.
• Advanced Safety Features: Over-voltage protection, over-current protection, and over-temperature protection ensure the safety of both the jump starter and your vehicle.

These features combine to make the NOCO GBX85 a reliable and versatile tool for any vehicle owner. The high starting current and engine compatibility make it suitable for a wide range of vehicles, while the safety features and USB power bank add extra layers of convenience and functionality. In the following sections, we'll explore how these features translate to real-world performance and usability.

Hands-On Performance and Testing

To truly evaluate the NOCO GBX85, we put it through a series of real-world tests. Our goal was to assess its jump-starting capabilities, ease of use, and overall reliability. We tested it on a variety of vehicles, including a 5.7-liter V8 truck, a 3.5-liter V6 sedan, and a 2.0-liter four-cylinder car, all with varying degrees of battery drain. In each test, the GBX85 performed admirably. The jump-starting process was straightforward: simply connect the clamps to the battery terminals, turn on the GBX85, and start the engine. The UltraSafe technology provided peace of mind, as the spark-proof and reverse polarity protection ensured a safe connection every time. Even with a completely dead battery, the GBX85 was able to jump-start the vehicles within seconds. The 1750-amp starting current provided ample power, and the jump starter never struggled, even with the larger engines. We also tested the USB power bank feature by charging smartphones and tablets. The GBX85 charged devices quickly and efficiently, making it a handy tool for emergencies or travel. The built-in LED flashlight proved to be surprisingly bright and useful, especially in low-light conditions. The various modes, including SOS and strobe, added an extra layer of functionality for emergency situations. Overall, the NOCO GBX85 exceeded our expectations in terms of performance and ease of use. Its robust construction, advanced safety features, and powerful jump-starting capabilities make it a top-tier option in the portable jump starter market. In the next section, we'll compare it to other jump starters to see how it stacks up against the competition.

NOCO GBX85 vs. Competitors

When it comes to portable jump starters, the market is filled with options, but the NOCO GBX85 stands out for several reasons. Let's compare it to some of its key competitors to see where it shines.

• NOCO GB70 vs. GBX85: The NOCO GB70 is another popular model in the Boost series, offering 2000 amps of starting power. While the GB70 has a slightly higher amperage, the GBX85 is more compact and lightweight, making it easier to store and carry. The GBX85 also features USB-C charging, which is faster and more convenient than the GB70's micro-USB.
• Clore Automotive Jump-N-Carry JNC660: The JNC660 is a lead-acid jump starter known for its ruggedness and high starting power. However, it's significantly larger and heavier than the GBX85, making it less portable. The GBX85's lithium-ion technology provides a better power-to-weight ratio and faster charging times.
• GOOLOO GP4000: The GOOLOO GP4000 is a budget-friendly option that offers a high peak current of 4000 amps. While it's powerful, it lacks some of the advanced safety features of the GBX85, such as over-voltage and over-temperature protection. The GBX85's UltraSafe technology provides a higher level of safety and reliability.
• Audew 2000A Jump Starter: The Audew jump starter is another affordable option with a high amperage rating. However, its build quality and reliability may not match the NOCO GBX85. The GBX85's durable construction and comprehensive warranty offer better long-term value.

In summary, the NOCO GBX85 strikes a great balance between power, portability, and safety. It may not be the absolute cheapest option, but its advanced features, robust construction, and reliable performance make it a worthwhile investment for anyone who wants a jump starter they can count on. The next section will discuss the pros and cons of the NOCO GBX85 to give you a clear overview of its strengths and weaknesses.

Pros and Cons of the NOCO GBX85

To give you a balanced view, let's break down the pros and cons of the NOCO GBX85:

Pros:

• Powerful Jump Starting: With a 1750-amp starting current, the GBX85 can jump-start a wide range of vehicles, including those with large engines.
• UltraSafe Technology: The spark-proof and reverse polarity protection features ensure safe and foolproof operation.
• Compact and Lightweight: Its lithium-ion battery technology makes it much smaller and lighter than traditional lead-acid jump starters.
• USB Power Bank: The USB port allows you to charge smartphones, tablets, and other USB devices, adding to its versatility.
• Built-in LED Flashlight: The bright LED flashlight with multiple modes is a valuable tool for emergencies.
• Fast Charging: USB-C charging allows for quick and convenient recharging.
• Durable Construction: The rugged housing is designed to withstand harsh conditions and everyday use.
• User-Friendly: It's easy to use, even for those with no prior experience with jump starters.

Cons:

• Price: The NOCO GBX85 is more expensive than some other jump starters on the market.
• Limited Jump Starts per Charge: While it can provide multiple jump starts on a single charge, heavy use may require more frequent recharging.
• Plastic Clamps: The clamps are made of plastic, which may not be as durable as metal clamps found on some other models.

Overall, the pros of the NOCO GBX85 far outweigh the cons. While the price may be a barrier for some, the advanced features, reliable performance, and safety features make it a worthwhile investment for those who prioritize quality and peace of mind. In the final section, we'll provide our overall verdict and recommendations for who should consider buying the GBX85.

Final Verdict and Recommendations

After thorough testing and evaluation, the NOCO GBX85 earns our strong recommendation. It's a powerful, reliable, and versatile jump starter that's packed with features designed to make your life easier and safer. The 1750-amp starting current ensures it can handle a wide range of vehicles, while the UltraSafe technology provides peace of mind during operation. The compact and lightweight design makes it easy to store in your vehicle, and the USB power bank and LED flashlight add extra layers of functionality. While the price may be higher than some competitors, the NOCO GBX85 offers excellent value for money. Its robust construction, advanced safety features, and reliable performance make it a long-term investment that you can count on in emergencies.

Who should buy the NOCO GBX85?

• Vehicle owners who want a reliable jump starter for emergencies.
• Those who value safety and ease of use.
• People who need a portable power source for charging USB devices.
• Anyone looking for a durable and long-lasting jump starter.
• Road trippers and outdoor enthusiasts who need a versatile tool for their adventures.

In conclusion, the NOCO GBX85 is a top-tier jump starter that delivers on its promises. It's a must-have for anyone who wants to be prepared for battery emergencies and enjoy the added convenience of a portable power bank and LED flashlight. We highly recommend the NOCO GBX85 to anyone in the market for a high-quality jump starter. So, guys, if you're looking for a reliable and powerful jump starter, the NOCO GBX85 is definitely worth considering!