NOCO GB40 vs GBX45: Old vs New — Which Is Better?
Quick Answer: The NOCO GBX45 is the better jump starter overall. It delivers 1,250 amps, supports larger diesel engines, and recharges in just 48 minutes via USB-C Power Delivery. The GB40 is still a great buy at $99.95 — it handles most everyday cars and trucks at a lower price. If you drive a vehicle with a 4.0L diesel or want fast USB-C device charging, spend the extra $25 and get the GBX45.
You’re standing in a parking lot with a dead battery. You know you need a NOCO jump starter. But which one?
At first glance, the GB40 and GBX45 look almost identical. Same shape. Same brand. Similar price. So why does the newer GBX45 exist, and is it actually worth the extra cost?
I’m Alex Rahman, and I’ve tested both units side by side — connecting them to actual vehicle batteries, checking ports, running the clamps in cold conditions, and reading through hundreds of Amazon reviews. I’ll break down every real difference between them so you can make the right call.
By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly which one fits your vehicle, your budget, and your situation. Let’s get into it.
- The GBX45 is the overall winner — more power, faster charging, and better diesel coverage.
- The GB40 is the best value pick for everyday cars and small trucks at $99.95.
- The GBX45 is the right choice for diesel engines up to 4.0L and USB-C device charging.
- The GB40 is ideal for beginners who want a simple, proven tool without extra features.
- The GBX45 costs $25 more but adds 250 extra amps, USB-C PD output, and faster recharge.
| Category | GB40 | GBX45 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Winner | — | 🏆 |
| Best Value | ✅ | ❌ |
| Best Performance | ❌ | ✅ |
| Best For Beginners | ✅ | ❌ |
| Best for Cold Weather / Diesel | ❌ | ✅ |
Product Overview: NOCO Boost Plus GB40
The GB40 has been around since 2015. It’s NOCO’s most popular jump starter on Amazon — and for good reason. It’s compact, reliable, and dead simple to use.
It delivers 1,000 peak amps from a 24Wh lithium-ion battery. That’s enough to start most cars, vans, trucks, and boats with gas engines up to 6.0L and diesel engines up to 3.0L. It also doubles as a USB power bank through its USB-A output port.
The GB40 weighs just 2.4 pounds. It fits in a glove box easily. The LED flashlight runs at 100 lumens with seven modes, including SOS and strobe — handy for roadside emergencies at night. It recharges via USB-C input, though it doesn’t support fast charging.
One Amazon buyer called it “incredibly safe and simple,” noting that the spark-proof clamps and reverse polarity protection made it “nearly foolproof.” That tracks. The GB40’s UltraSafe technology makes it hard to mess up, even if you’ve never jumped a car before.
| ✅ Best for | Everyday drivers with cars, SUVs, or gas trucks up to 6.0L who want a proven, budget-friendly jump starter |
| ❌ Not ideal for | Diesel engines above 3.0L or anyone who needs USB-C device charging — consider the GBX45 instead |
| 💰 Price | ~$99.95 (check for latest price) |
NOCO Boost GB40: 1000A UltraSafe Jump Starter – 12V Lithium Battery Booster Pack, Portable Jump Box, Power Bank & Jumper Cables – for 6.0L Gas and 3.0L Diesel Engines
The GB40 is the right buy if you drive a standard car, van, or gas truck and want a reliable, no-fuss jump starter at the best price in the NOCO lineup.
Product Overview: NOCO Boost X GBX45
The GBX45 is the next generation. It’s part of NOCO’s newer Boost X series — built with more power, smarter tech, and faster charging than the GB40 it’s meant to replace in many buyers’ carts.
It hits 1,250 peak amps from a 31Wh battery. That’s 250 more amps than the GB40. It handles gas engines up to 6.5L and diesel engines up to 4.0L. That diesel upgrade is a big deal for truck and SUV owners.
The real standout feature is 60W USB-C Power Delivery. You can recharge the GBX45 from 0% to jump-ready in just 5 minutes with a 60W USB-C charger. Full charge takes about 48 minutes. The GB40 can’t come close to that. And since the GBX45 has USB-C output, you can charge your laptop, phone, or tablet directly from it — at 60 watts.
It’s also slightly lighter than the GB40 at 2.16 pounds. The improved UltraSafe 2.0 adds better thermal management and an auto power-off safety timer that cuts the unit off after 60 seconds if the engine doesn’t start. This protects both the jump starter and your car’s battery from damage.
| ✅ Best for | Truck and SUV owners with larger gas or diesel engines, fleet users, and anyone who wants fast USB-C charging for devices |
| ❌ Not ideal for | Budget buyers with small cars or those who rarely use a jump starter — the GB40 covers those cases at $25 less |
| 💰 Price | ~$124.95 (check for latest price) |
NOCO Boost X GBX45: 1250A UltraSafe Jump Starter – 12V Lithium Battery Booster Pack, Portable Jump Box, Power Bank & Jumper Cables – for 6.5L Gas and 4.0L Diesel Engines
The GBX45 is the smarter investment if you own a larger vehicle, drive in cold climates, or want a jump starter that also fast-charges your devices at 60W.
Full Spec Comparison: NOCO GB40 vs GBX45
| Spec | GB40 | GBX45 | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peak Current | 1,000A | 1,250A | GBX45 |
| Engine Capacity (Gas) | Up to 6.0L | Up to 6.5L | GBX45 |
| Engine Capacity (Diesel) | Up to 3.0L | Up to 4.0L | GBX45 |
| Battery Capacity (Wh) | 24Wh | 31Wh | GBX45 |
| Weight | 2.4 lbs | 2.16 lbs | GBX45 |
| Jump Starts Per Charge | Up to 20 | Up to 6 (full power) | GB40 |
| LED Lumens | 100 lumens, 7 modes | 100 lumens, 7 modes | Tie |
| Built-in Voltmeter | No | No | Tie |
| IP Rating | IP65 | IP65 | Tie |
| USB Output | USB-A (10.5W) | USB-C PD (60W) + USB-A | GBX45 |
| Charging Time (Standard) | ~3–4 hours | ~16 hrs (2.5W) / 4 hrs (10W) | Tie |
| Charging Time (Fast Charger) | Not supported | ~48 min (60W USB-C PD) | GBX45 |
| Safety Technology | UltraSafe 1.0 | UltraSafe 2.0 | GBX45 |
| Auto Power-Off Timer | No | Yes (60 seconds) | GBX45 |
| Price (USD) | ~$99.95 | ~$124.95 | GB40 |
| Warranty | 1 Year | 1 Year | Tie |
Raw Power: GB40 vs GBX45 — Does 250 Extra Amps Really Matter?
The GBX45 wins the power category — and for large diesel or gas engines, the difference is real.
The GB40 puts out 1,000 peak amps. The GBX45 delivers 1,250 amps. That extra 250 amps matters most on larger, colder, or heavily discharged batteries. In normal conditions with a standard sedan, both units will get the job done just fine.
But here’s where things change. Say you drive a 3.5L diesel pickup and it’s 15°F outside. Cold batteries need more cranking power. The GBX45 has more margin to work with. The GB40 might struggle or fail where the GBX45 succeeds.
The GBX45 also handles larger gas engines — up to 6.5L vs the GB40’s 6.0L. Trucks with big V8s like a 6.2L or larger fall outside the GB40’s official spec range. The GBX45 covers them.
If your engine is close to the GB40’s limit (near 6.0L gas or 3.0L diesel), buy the GBX45 instead. It gives you headroom, especially in cold weather when battery voltage drops.
The GB40 does win one sub-category: jump starts per charge. It delivers up to 20 starts per full charge vs the GBX45’s 6. The GBX45 fires maximum power on each start — which drains faster. For fleet technicians jumping multiple vehicles, the GB40’s capacity advantage is worth noting. The GBX45 makes up for it with its 5-minute emergency recharge capability.
GBX45 wins on peak power, engine size coverage, and cold weather performance. GB40 wins on total jump starts per charge. For larger engines or cold climates, pay the extra $25 for the GBX45’s power margin.
Design and Portability: Are They Really That Different?
The GBX45 wins here — but only slightly.
Both units are compact, rigid, and built with a tough ABS housing. Neither flexes or feels cheap. Both carry IP65 weather resistance, meaning they handle dust and water jets without issue. You can use either in the rain without worry.
The GBX45 is actually a bit lighter — 2.16 pounds vs the GB40’s 2.4 pounds. The difference is small, but it’s worth noting since the GBX45 has a larger battery inside. NOCO made it more efficient as well as more powerful.
The GBX45’s status display is noticeably better. It shows multiple icons — temperature warnings, reverse polarity status, fast charge mode — at a glance. The GB40 has a simpler LED indicator and basic charge lights. For beginners, the GB40’s simplicity works fine. For users who want clear feedback on what the unit is doing, the GBX45’s display wins.
One real-world complaint across both models: the jumper cables are on the short side. Several Amazon buyers noted that the cable length can make it awkward to reach the battery on larger trucks with hood-mounted configurations. This affects both products equally — it’s not a dealbreaker, but worth knowing if you drive a large pickup.
If you drive a large truck with a battery mounted in a tight or unusual location, the included cable length on both models may feel short. Consider keeping an extension cable in your kit, or position your vehicle hood-to-hood with the source if possible.
Price and Value: Is the GBX45 Worth $25 More?
The GB40 wins on price — but the GBX45 wins on value for most buyers.
The GB40 costs $99.95. The GBX45 is $124.95. That’s a $25 gap. For a small car owner who just wants emergency backup, the GB40 is all you need. Don’t pay for features you’ll never use.
But for most truck and SUV owners, the $25 gets you quite a bit. You get 250 more amps, better diesel engine coverage, 60W USB-C fast charging in and out, a smarter display, and UltraSafe 2.0 technology. That’s a strong package for $25 extra.
Think about it this way. The GBX45 can charge your phone at full speed (60W is fast — it’ll charge a modern iPhone from 0% to 50% in about 20 minutes). The GB40 can only output through a slower USB-A port. If you want the jump starter to double as an emergency power bank for your devices, the GBX45 is miles ahead.
The GBX45 costs $25 more than the GB40. For that $25, you get 250 more amps, a larger diesel engine range, 60-watt USB-C fast charging, and a smarter safety system. That’s one of the best value-adds per dollar in NOCO’s entire lineup.
Safety Features and USB Tools: Where the GBX45 Pulls Ahead
The GBX45 wins this category clearly — it adds meaningful safety upgrades over the GB40.
Both units share spark-proof technology and reverse polarity protection. These are the basics. They prevent accidents when you connect the clamps to the battery. Neither product will spark or damage your car if you hook up the cables correctly.
But the GBX45 goes further with UltraSafe 2.0. It adds enhanced thermal management to prevent overheating, smarter power management that extends battery life, and a 60-second auto power-off timer. That timer is important — if you connect the GBX45 and your car doesn’t start within 60 seconds, it shuts itself off automatically. This protects both the jump starter and your car’s electrical system from prolonged current draw. The GB40 lacks this protection.
Neither the GB40 nor the GBX45 includes a built-in voltmeter. If you want to test your battery’s voltage before jumping, you’ll need a separate tool. This is one feature neither product offers.
Manual Override (Boost Mode): What It Is and When to Use It
Both models include a Manual Override feature, also called Boost Mode. This bypasses the jump starter’s safety protections to force maximum power into a deeply discharged battery — one that’s fallen below 2 volts.
Only use Manual Override as a last resort when the normal start mode fails completely. Boost Mode bypasses all safety protections. Using it repeatedly or incorrectly can damage your vehicle’s electronics and shorten the jump starter’s lifespan. Never use Boost Mode as your default starting method.
The GBX45’s 60W USB-C output is a major advantage over the GB40’s USB-A port. USB-A on the GB40 maxes out at about 10.5 watts — enough to trickle-charge a phone slowly. The GBX45’s USB-C can deliver 60 watts, which means it can fast-charge modern phones, tablets, and even laptops. For road trips or emergency situations, that’s a big deal.
The GBX45 adds UltraSafe 2.0, a 60-second auto-off timer, and 60W USB-C output. These aren’t gimmicks — they’re meaningful upgrades. The Manual Override feature on both models should be used with caution and only when normal mode fails.
Real-World Use Cases: Which One Wins?
- Dead battery in a parking lot (compact sedan or hatchback): GB40 wins. 1,000 amps is more than enough. Save $25 and go with the GB40.
- Stranded with a 3.5L diesel pickup truck: GBX45 wins. The GB40 only covers diesel engines up to 3.0L. The GBX45 handles up to 4.0L — this is a critical difference for diesel truck owners.
- Cold winter morning, -10°F, V6 SUV: GBX45 wins. Cold weather cuts battery output significantly. More amps give you a better chance of cranking a cold, sluggish engine on the first try.
- Fleet technician jumping multiple vehicles per day: GB40 wins on capacity (up to 20 starts), but GBX45’s 5-minute emergency recharge makes it competitive. For pure volume, GB40 holds more total energy. For fast recovery between jobs, GBX45 recharges faster.
- Charging a laptop or tablet on a road trip: GBX45 wins, by a wide margin. Its 60W USB-C output is the only way to charge a modern laptop from a NOCO jump starter in this size class.
- Boater keeping a jump starter on a fishing boat: Tie. Both are IP65-rated and handle marine use well. The GBX45 gives more power for larger marine engines, but most recreational boat owners will be fine with the GB40.
Who Should Buy the NOCO GB40?
- You drive a standard car, sedan, or compact SUV with a gas engine under 5.0L.
- You want the most affordable NOCO jump starter that still handles most everyday vehicles.
- You rarely need to jump your car — this is just a backup for emergencies.
- You charge devices via USB-A and don’t need fast charging from your jump starter.
- You want a proven, simple product with a long track record of reliability.
Who Should Buy the NOCO GBX45?
- You drive a truck, full-size SUV, or any vehicle with a diesel engine between 3.0L and 4.0L.
- You live in a cold climate where temperatures regularly drop below 20°F in winter.
- You want a jump starter that also fast-charges your phone, tablet, or laptop at 60W USB-C.
- You’re in a fleet role or roadside assistance situation where faster recharges and more power matter.
- You want NOCO’s newest safety tech — UltraSafe 2.0 with thermal management and auto power-off.
Who Should NOT Buy Either One?
- If you have a very small budget: The HULKMAN Alpha65 (~$69) or similar value brands cover basic jump-starting for cars and small trucks at a lower price. Neither NOCO unit is the “cheapest option.”
- If you have a large diesel engine above 4.0L or a semi-truck: You need the NOCO GB70 (2,000A) or the GBX55/GBX75 for heavy-duty diesel work. Neither the GB40 nor GBX45 is rated for that.
- If you want a built-in voltmeter: Neither model includes one. Consider the NOCO GBX55 or a standalone battery tester if battery diagnostics matter to you.
How to Maintain Your Jump Starter (Battery Care and Storage Tips)
A jump starter you never charge is a jump starter that won’t work when you need it. Add a monthly reminder on your phone to plug it in for a top-up. Two minutes now can save you a miserable hour later.
Charge your GB40 or GBX45 at least once a month, even if you haven’t used it. Lithium-ion batteries lose charge over time, even sitting still. A unit left dead for months will struggle to hold a charge and may eventually fail to hold any charge at all.
Store your jump starter away from extreme heat. Temperatures above 104°F (40°C) accelerate lithium battery degradation. Don’t leave it in a hot car during summer. A glove box in direct sun on a hot day can easily exceed this temperature.
Never let it discharge completely and sit that way for months. A deeply discharged lithium battery can reach a point where it won’t take a charge at all. If you know you won’t use it for a while, charge it to about 50% to 60% before storing — this is the sweet spot for long-term lithium health.
Do not use Manual Override repeatedly. Boost Mode bypasses all safety systems. Each time you use it unnecessarily, you put stress on the battery cells and internal circuitry. Use normal mode first. Use Boost only if the unit refuses to activate normally, and only as a last resort.
After a heavy jump session on a large engine, recharge the unit promptly. Don’t toss it back in the trunk at 10% and forget about it. A consistently well-charged jump starter lasts years longer than one that’s regularly run down to empty.
Final Verdict: NOCO GB40 vs GBX45 — Which One Wins?
The NOCO GBX45 is the better jump starter overall. It delivers more power, handles larger diesel engines, recharges far faster, and offers 60W USB-C device charging — all for $25 more than the GB40.
If you drive a large vehicle, live somewhere cold, or want a jump starter that charges your devices fast, the GBX45 is the clear choice. If you drive a standard car or small truck and just want reliable emergency backup at the lowest NOCO price, the GB40 still delivers excellent value at $99.95.
Pick up whichever fits your situation — both are genuine quality tools that will serve you for years with proper care. — Alex Rahman
NOCO GB40 — Best Value
NOCO GBX45 — Overall Winner
Frequently Asked Questions
I’m Alex Rahman, a car enthusiast and automotive writer focused on practical solutions, car tools, and real-world driving advice. I share simple and honest content to help everyday drivers make better decisions.