Draper Jump Starter Review
Draper is a well-known brand in the UK tool market, offering a range of affordable jump starters. This review examines their lineup to help you choose the right model for your needs.
Quick answer
The Draper 600A is the best overall for most drivers, offering a strong balance of peak power, compact size, and reliable build quality. For budget-conscious buyers, the Draper 400A provides essential jump-starting capability at a lower price point.
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Research updated June 2026.
Draper 600A Jump Starter
Reliable power, compact design, and useful extras make it the top choice.
| Model | Best For | Peak Current | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Draper 600A | Overall Use | 600A | 4.5/5 | Mid |
| Draper 400A | Budget | 400A | 4.2/5 | Low |
| Draper 800A | Large Engines | 800A | 4.6/5 | High |
| Draper 1000A | Heavy Duty | 1000A | 4.7/5 | High |
| Draper 2000A | Professional | 2000A | 4.8/5 | Premium |
Draper 600A Jump Starter
Best OverallPros
- Good balance of power and portability
- Fast charging USB ports
- Compact and easy to store
Cons
- Not suitable for large diesel engines
- Limited jump cycles per charge
The Draper 600A is the sweet spot in the range, offering enough power for most petrol engines up to 3.0L and smaller diesels. It includes two USB ports with Quick Charge 3.0, allowing you to charge phones and tablets quickly. The unit is compact enough to fit in a glovebox, making it ideal for everyday carry.
Owner reviews highlight its reliability and ease of use. The built-in LED light is useful for emergencies, and the clamps feel sturdy. Some users note that it struggles with larger engines or very cold batteries, but for typical family cars, it performs well.
Draper 400A Jump Starter
Best BudgetPros
- Very affordable
- Lightweight and portable
- Simple operation
Cons
- Limited to small engines
- Only one USB port
The Draper 400A is the entry-level model, designed for small petrol engines up to 2.0L. It is the lightest and most compact option, making it easy to carry in a motorcycle or small car. The single USB port is sufficient for charging a phone in an emergency.
Owner feedback indicates it works well for its intended use, but it lacks the power for larger vehicles. The build quality is acceptable for the price, though the clamps feel less robust than higher-end models. It is a good choice for occasional use on smaller cars.
Draper 800A Jump Starter
Best for Large EnginesPros
- Handles larger petrol engines
- Dual fast-charging USB ports
- Sturdy build quality
Cons
- Heavier than smaller models
- Higher price point
The Draper 800A steps up the power to handle petrol engines up to 4.0L and some diesel engines. It includes dual USB ports with Quick Charge 3.0, making it more versatile for charging devices. The unit is larger and heavier, but still portable enough for a boot or garage.
Reviews from owners praise its ability to start SUVs and vans reliably. The clamps are well-made with good insulation. Some users mention that the battery capacity could be larger for multiple jumps, but for single-use emergencies, it performs excellently.
Draper 1000A Jump Starter
Best for Heavy DutyPros
- Powerful enough for most diesel engines
- Large battery capacity
- Includes a carrying case
Cons
- Bulky and heavy
- Higher cost
The Draper 1000A is designed for heavy-duty use, capable of starting large petrol engines up to 5.0L and most diesel engines. It comes with a larger battery that can provide multiple jump starts on a single charge. The included carrying case makes storage and transport easier.
Owner reviews highlight its reliability for trucks and large vans. The unit also features a powerful LED light and USB ports. The main drawback is its size and weight, which makes it less convenient for everyday carry, but it is a solid choice for a garage or workshop.
Draper 2000A Jump Starter
Best ProfessionalPros
- Extreme power for large diesel engines
- Multiple USB ports including USB-C
- Professional-grade build
Cons
- Expensive
- Heavy and not portable
The Draper 2000A is the flagship model, offering massive peak current for starting large diesel engines up to 8.0L. It is built for professional use in garages or for heavy equipment. It includes three USB ports, including a USB-C port, and a large battery capacity for multiple jumps.
Owner reviews from professionals praise its reliability and power. The clamps are heavy-duty and the unit feels very solid. The main downsides are the high price and significant weight, making it unsuitable for portable use. It is best left in a workshop or large vehicle.
What to Check Before Buying a Draper Jump Starter
Before purchasing, consider the engine size of your vehicle. Draper models range from 400A for small cars to 2000A for large diesel engines. Check the peak current rating and ensure it matches your vehicle's requirements. Also, consider the battery capacity, which determines how many jumps you can get per charge.
Look at the additional features like USB ports for charging devices, LED lights for emergencies, and the quality of the clamps. A carrying case can be useful for storage. Finally, check the warranty period and brand reliability. Draper offers a standard one-year warranty on most models.
Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Jump Starter
One common mistake is buying a jump starter with insufficient power for your vehicle. Always check the peak current and engine size compatibility. Another error is ignoring the battery capacity, which can leave you stranded after one jump. Choose a model with enough capacity for your needs.
Avoid cheap models with poor build quality, as they may fail in an emergency. Also, do not overlook the importance of USB ports if you need to charge devices. Finally, ensure the jump starter is fully charged before storing it in your vehicle, as batteries can self-discharge over time.
FAQs
What size Draper jump starter do I need for my car?
For a typical family car with a 1.6L to 2.0L petrol engine, the Draper 600A is sufficient. For larger SUVs or vans, consider the 800A or 1000A model.
Can a Draper jump starter start a diesel engine?
Yes, but you need a model with higher peak current. The Draper 1000A or 2000A is recommended for diesel engines, especially in cold weather.
How long does a Draper jump starter hold its charge?
Most Draper jump starters can hold a charge for 3 to 6 months when stored properly. It is best to recharge them every 3 months to maintain battery health.
Are Draper jump starters safe to use?
Yes, they include safety features like reverse polarity protection, overcharge protection, and short circuit protection. Always follow the instructions.
Can I charge my phone with a Draper jump starter?
Yes, most models include USB ports for charging phones, tablets, and other devices. The 600A and above models have Quick Charge 3.0 ports.
What is the warranty on Draper jump starters?
Draper typically offers a one-year warranty on their jump starters. Check the specific product page for exact warranty details.
How do I maintain my Draper jump starter?
Keep it charged every 3 months, store it in a cool dry place, and clean the clamps with a dry cloth. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures.
Can a Draper jump starter be used as a power bank?
Yes, the USB ports allow it to function as a power bank for charging small electronics like phones and tablets.
What is the difference between peak and starting current?
Peak current is the maximum short burst of power, while starting current is the sustained power. Both are important, but peak current is the key spec for jump starting.
Are Draper jump starters good for motorcycles?
Yes, the Draper 400A is lightweight and compact, making it ideal for motorcycles and small engines.
Our verdict
The Draper 600A is the best overall jump starter for most drivers, offering a great balance of power, portability, and price. For budget-conscious buyers, the Draper 400A provides essential functionality at a lower cost. For heavy-duty needs, the Draper 2000A is the professional choice.