NOCO Boost GB40 Review: Is It Still Worth Buying in 2026?
NOCO Boost GB40 Review: Is This 1,000A Jump Starter Worth It in 2026?
The NOCO GB40 can still be a practical portable jump starter for drivers whose vehicles fall within its manufacturer-rated limits of up to 6.0L gasoline or 3.0L diesel. Its main strengths are its compact 2.45-lb design, 1,000A peak rating, reverse-polarity protection, spark-proof connection technology and IP65 enclosure. Its main disadvantages compared with newer alternatives are its slower charging system, lack of high-power USB-C Power Delivery and absence of an integrated tire inflator or digital battery display. For a typical passenger car, the GB40 is worth considering if its engine rating and features match your needs; larger engines or buyers wanting newer charging features should compare it with models such as the GBX45 or GBX75.
Our Testing Disclosure
GrowthVista has not performed an independent hands-on test of this GB40. This review is based on current manufacturer specifications, product documentation and an analysis of where the GB40 fits compared with newer alternatives. We therefore won’t make claims such as “we started 20 cars with it” or assign fake laboratory performance scores.
NOCO GB40 at a Glance
| Specification | NOCO Boost GB40 |
|---|---|
| Peak current | 1,000A |
| Battery system | 12V lead-acid vehicle batteries |
| Internal battery | 24Wh lithium-ion |
| Gas engine rating | Up to 6.0L |
| Diesel engine rating | Up to 3.0L |
| USB input | 5V / 2.1A max |
| USB output | 5V / 2.1A max |
| Flashlight | 100 lumens |
| IP rating | IP65 |
| Weight | 2.45 lb / 1.11 kg |
| Dimensions | 7.72 × 3.16 × 1.71 in |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty |
These figures are based on NOCO’s current GB40 technical specifications.
What Is the NOCO GB40?
The GB40 belongs to NOCO’s original Boost family of portable lithium jump starters. Its main job is straightforward: provide enough temporary starting current to help start a vehicle with a discharged 12V lead-acid battery.
NOCO positions different Boost models according to engine size. The GB40 sits above smaller entry models and below larger-capacity Boost units. It isn’t intended to be NOCO’s maximum-power solution; instead, it targets the broad middle of the passenger-vehicle market.
NOCO specifies gasoline engines up to 6.0L and diesel engines up to 3.0L. That covers a wide range of cars, crossovers and SUVs, although owners of larger diesel vehicles should look higher in the range.
What Comes in the Box?
According to NOCO’s current specification material, the GB40 package includes the jump starter, heavy-duty precision battery clamps, a charging cable, a microfiber storage bag, and safety/warranty information.
The storage bag keeps the basic kit together, but buyers wanting more physical protection may prefer a compatible semi-rigid case.
GB40 lithium jump starter
Heavy-duty battery clamps
Charging cable
Microfiber storage bag
Safety and warranty information
Is the NOCO Boost GB40’s 1,000A Rating Enough?
The GB40’s 1,000A peak rating can be sufficient for many passenger vehicles when the vehicle falls within NOCO’s published engine limits. NOCO rates the GB40 for gasoline engines up to 6.0L and diesel engines up to 3.0L. However, peak amps should not be used as the only measure of jump-starting capability. Vehicle engine size, battery condition, temperature and the manufacturer’s stated compatibility all matter.
It’s easy to look at newer jump starters advertising 2,000A, 3,000A or 4,000A and conclude that the GB40’s 1,000A rating is outdated. That’s too simplistic.
If your vehicle falls comfortably inside NOCO’s published 6.0L gasoline / 3.0L diesel limits, a higher headline number isn’t automatically something you need. The sensible approach is to start with engine compatibility, not the largest number on the product page.
For larger diesel pickups, heavy trucks or high-displacement vehicles, a higher-capacity model is the more appropriate place to look.
Portability Is One of the GB40’s Strongest Arguments
The GB40 measures approximately 7.72 inches long, 3.16 inches high and 1.71 inches deep, with NOCO listing its weight at about 2.45 pounds.
That makes it relatively easy to keep in a vehicle emergency kit and dramatically more compact than many traditional lead-acid professional jump boxes. For an ordinary driver, that compactness may be more valuable than capacity they rarely use.
Safety Features
Jump starting a car involves making an electrical connection to the vehicle’s battery, so connection safety deserves attention.
NOCO markets the GB40 with spark-proof technology and reverse-polarity protection. Status LEDs provide connection feedback, which is useful for occasional users.
These protections do not replace the vehicle manual or the GB40 instructions. Confirm the target battery type and follow the correct connection procedure for the vehicle.
Manual Override: Useful, but Not for Casual Use
The GB40 includes a manual-override function for situations where an extremely discharged battery has voltage too low for normal detection.
This should not be treated as the default response whenever a car does not start. Because override modes can bypass normal detection behavior, follow NOCO’s manual carefully and seek professional help if you’re uncertain about the battery condition or connection.
Charging the GB40
This is one area where the GB40’s age becomes more noticeable. Its internal battery capacity is 24Wh, and its charging architecture is modest compared with newer high-power USB-C models.
NOCO documentation lists approximate recharge times of 12 hours at 0.5A, 6 hours at 1A and 3 hours at 2A. Three hours can be acceptable for emergency equipment, but newer jump starters can recharge substantially faster with USB-C Power Delivery.
| Charger | Approximate Recharge Time |
|---|---|
| 0.5A | 12 hours |
| 1A | 6 hours |
| 2A | 3 hours |
It Also Works as a Power Bank
The GB40 can recharge compatible personal electronics through its USB output. That’s useful in an emergency, but modern USB-C devices can support dramatically higher charging power.
Think of the GB40’s power-bank function as emergency phone power rather than a replacement for a modern high-output laptop power bank.
The 100-Lumen Flashlight Is More Useful Than It Sounds
Battery problems don’t conveniently happen only during daylight. The GB40 incorporates a 100-lumen LED flashlight with multiple lighting modes, including emergency modes.
A dedicated flashlight may outperform it, but having a light built into the same device you’re using under the hood is genuinely useful.
Weather and Water Resistance
NOCO gives the GB40 an IP65 rating with its ports closed. That does not mean the unit should be submerged or treated as waterproof.
Temperature limits also matter. Treat a lithium jump starter as battery-powered equipment and follow the manufacturer’s operating, charging and storage-temperature guidance.
Where the GB40 Shows Its Age
The GB40 still covers its core job, but the market has moved forward. It lacks high-power USB-C Power Delivery, a digital percentage display and an integrated air compressor.
Its 3.0L diesel rating also means owners of larger diesel vehicles should choose a more appropriate model. These limitations don’t automatically disqualify the GB40; they define the buyer it suits.
NOCO GB40 Pros and Cons
Pros
- Compact 2.45-lb design
- 1,000A manufacturer peak rating
- Up to 6.0L gasoline / 3.0L diesel according to NOCO
- Reverse-polarity protection
- Spark-proof connection technology
- IP65 enclosure
- Built-in 100-lumen flashlight
- USB device charging
Cons
- Slower charging than newer high-power USB-C jump starters
- No integrated tire inflator
- No digital battery-percentage display
- 3.0L diesel rating may be limiting for larger diesel vehicles
- One-year limited warranty
- Older charging architecture than newer Boost X models
Bottom line: The GB40’s biggest advantage is its compact, straightforward design. Its biggest limitation is that newer jump starters offer faster charging and additional roadside features.
What We Like About the NOCO GB40
1,000A manufacturer peak-current rating
Up to 6.0L gasoline engine support
Up to 3.0L diesel support
Compact 2.45-lb design
IP65 enclosure rating
Reverse-polarity protection
Spark-proof connection technology
Built-in 100-lumen flashlight
USB emergency device charging
Straightforward LED interface
What Could Be Better
No high-power USB-C Power Delivery
Recharge is slower than newer USB-C PD models
No digital percentage display
No built-in tire inflator
Only 3.0L diesel manufacturer rating
Larger-engine drivers need a higher-capacity model
One-year limited warranty
NOCO GB40 vs GBX45 vs GBX75
NOCO’s newer Boost X family is the clearest alternative when fast charging and larger engine capability matter. The original GB40 makes more sense when you want something simpler and its engine rating already covers your vehicle.
| Model | Peak Current | Gas Engine | Diesel Engine |
|---|---|---|---|
| GB40 | 1,000A | 6.0L | 3.0L |
| GBX45 | 1,250A | 6.5L | 4.0L |
| GBX75 | 2,500A | 8.5L | 6.0L |
The NOCO GB40 and GB70 serve different vehicle-size needs. The GB40 is the smaller and lighter option, while the GB70 provides substantially higher manufacturer-rated starting capacity for larger vehicles.
| Feature | NOCO GB40 | NOCO GB70 |
|---|---|---|
| Peak current | 1,000A | 2,000A |
| Gas engine rating | Up to 6.0L | Up to 8.0L |
| Diesel engine rating | Up to 3.0L | Up to 6.0L |
| Weight | About 2.45 lb | About 4.18 lb |
| Best suited to | Everyday passenger vehicles | Larger SUVs, trucks and engines |
Choose the GB40 if its engine rating comfortably covers your vehicle and portability is important. Consider the GB70 if you have a larger gasoline or diesel engine or simply want more manufacturer-rated starting capacity.
Who Is the NOCO GB40 Best For?
The NOCO GB40 is best suited to drivers with typical passenger vehicles who want a compact emergency jump starter and do not need an integrated tire inflator or high-power USB-C charging.
Drivers of normal gasoline passenger cars, crossovers or compatible SUVs
Buyers who want a compact emergency jump starter
People who do not need a built-in tire compressor
People who do not need laptop-class USB-C output
Drivers who value straightforward operation
Anyone whose engine falls comfortably inside NOCO’s published rating
Who Should Not Buy the NOCO GB40?
The GB40 may not be the right choice if your vehicle exceeds NOCO’s published engine ratings, you regularly deal with extremely cold conditions, or you specifically want high-power USB-C charging, a built-in tire inflator or substantially higher engine compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the NOCO GB40 good for everyday cars?
The NOCO GB40 can be a suitable option for many everyday passenger vehicles when the vehicle falls within NOCO’s published engine ratings of up to 6.0L gasoline or 3.0L diesel. Its compact size makes it convenient to keep in a vehicle emergency kit.
Is the NOCO GB40 better than the GB70?
The GB40 is smaller and lighter, while the GB70 offers higher manufacturer-rated engine compatibility and a higher peak-current rating. Choose the GB40 when portability and compatibility with your vehicle are the priorities; consider the GB70 for larger gasoline or diesel engines.
Does the NOCO GB40 have USB-C?
The current GB40 specification lists USB-C input, but its charging architecture is limited to 5V/2.1A rather than high-power USB-C Power Delivery. Buyers who want substantially faster USB-C charging should compare newer jump starters.
How long does the NOCO GB40 take to charge?
NOCO lists approximately three hours when charging at 2A, six hours at 1A and 12 hours at 0.5A. Actual charging time can vary depending on the charging source and conditions.
Can the NOCO GB40 jump-start a diesel?
NOCO rates the GB40 for diesel engines up to 3.0L. Owners of larger diesel engines should compare a higher-capacity model instead.
Does the NOCO GB40 have an air compressor?
No. The GB40 is a jump starter and portable power device rather than a jump starter with a built-in tire inflator. If an integrated compressor is important, compare combination models such as the GOOLOO A3 or AstroAI S8 Air from the broader jump-starter guide.
Is the NOCO GB40 waterproof?
The GB40 has an IP65 rating with its ports closed. This indicates protection against dust and water jets, but it should not be treated as a device designed for immersion.
How does the NOCO GB40 compare with newer jump starters?
The GB40 remains compact and straightforward, but newer models can offer higher peak-current ratings, faster USB-C charging, digital displays or integrated air compressors. The GB40 makes the most sense when its engine rating and basic feature set already meet your needs.
Is the NOCO GB40 still worth buying in 2026?
It can still make sense for drivers whose vehicles fall comfortably within its published engine ratings and who primarily want a compact jump starter rather than an all-in-one roadside device. Compare current price and features against newer alternatives.
What engine size can the NOCO GB40 start?
NOCO currently rates the GB40 for gasoline engines up to 6.0L and diesel engines up to 3.0L.
How many amps is the NOCO GB40?
NOCO specifies a 1,000A peak starting-current rating.
How long does the GB40 take to charge?
NOCO documentation lists approximately 3 hours with a 2A source, 6 hours at 1A and 12 hours at 0.5A. Actual results can vary.
Can the GB40 charge a phone?
Yes. It has a USB output suitable for compatible personal electronics, though it is not a modern high-power USB-C laptop charger.
Is the GB40 waterproof?
It is rated IP65 with its ports closed. That is not the same as being designed for immersion.
Does the NOCO GB40 have reverse-polarity protection?
Yes. NOCO specifies reverse-polarity protection and spark-proof technology.
Can I use the GB40 on a completely dead battery?
The GB40 has a Manual Override function for cases where voltage is too low for normal detection. Follow NOCO’s manual carefully because this is not the standard operating mode.
NOCO Boost GB40 Review: Final Verdict
The NOCO GB40 is still a relevant compact jump starter in 2026, but it is no longer the obvious choice for every driver.
Its strongest case is simple: a relatively small 2.45-lb package, 1,000A manufacturer peak rating, up to 6.0L gasoline and 3.0L diesel engine compatibility, reverse-polarity protection, spark-proof connection technology and an IP65 enclosure.
Its weaknesses are equally clear. The charging system is modest compared with newer high-power USB-C models, and it does not include features such as an integrated tire inflator or digital battery display.
For a typical passenger vehicle that falls comfortably within NOCO’s published engine rating, the GB40 is still worth considering if you want a compact, straightforward emergency jump starter. For larger engines or buyers who want faster charging and more roadside functions, compare it with newer alternatives such as the Boost X range.
Because GrowthVista has not independently tested the GB40, this conclusion is based on the manufacturer’s current specifications and product positioning rather than hands-on performance testing.
