TOPDON JS1500 Portable Jump Starter (Review & Test)

TOPDON is widely recognized for its diagnostic tools, but the company also delivers other automotive products. You will see thermal cameras, EV chargers, battery testers, battery starters, and jump starters. Since its founding in 2017, TOPDON has consistently expanded its offerings to stay relevant and meet the needs of drivers and technicians.

One interesting product is the TOPDON JumpSurge JS1500, a versatile portable jump starter and battery pack. Here’s what you should know about it:

Specs:

  • Model: JUMPSURGE1500
  • Peak Current: 1500A
  • Battery Capacity: 10000mAh @ 3.7V
  • Power Capacity: 37Wh
  • Charger input: USB-C 5V 3A
  • Charger output 1: USB-A QC18W 12V-1.5A, 9V-2A, 5V-3A
  • Charger output 2: USB-A 5V-2.4A
  • Charger output 3: Side 3-pin connector for jump starter harness
  • LED Light: 1 x LED, 3 Modes (Flashlight, Strobe, SOS)
  • Marketed to start engines up to 6.5L petrol and 4.0L diesel

Pricing and Availability:

Key Tips & Tricks:

  • Press the BOOST button for 12V power on a completely dead system
  • After pressing the boost button, you have about 30 seconds – don’t waste it
  • For power-hungry vehicles, press boost, then quickly start the engine
  • Ensure good contact with the car’s terminals
  • Recharge the unit after 5-10 jumpstarts to maintain optimal performance

The Good

  • Compact and travel-friendly
  • Can power up a BMW F10 without a battery, allowing boot access
  • Capable of starting a 530d BMW F10
  • Eliminates the need for traditional jump cables
  • No need to maneuver vehicles for jumpstarting
  • Reduces potential damage to the assisting vehicle
  • Serves as a compact 12V power source for testing components

The Downsides:

  • Power charge level indicator isn’t very accurate
  • May struggle with large engines in very cold conditions or high-drain situations

Conclusion:

A true lifesaver! This device not only jumpstarts cars but also serves as a handy battery pack for everyday use. It will save you time waiting for assistance and reduce the risk of secondary damage to your vehicle or others. It’s like having an insurance policy against dead battery problems.

An additional observation: for very cold climates, isolated areas, big engines, and power-hungry electronics, I’d recommend using to the TOPDON JS2000 or JS3000. While the JS1500 is capable, it does have its limits—especially if it’s not fully charged.