12V 800A Lithium Jump Starter Power Pack - Compact Portable Power

In this review the Schumacher SL1638 is examined as a compact, portable solution for roadside power needs; it is aimed at drivers, riders, and anyone who wants a small, reliable jump starter and power bank. The bottom line: the SL1638's strongest selling point is its combination of 800 peak amps in a truly small package that also doubles as a USB power source and emergency light, so it suits people who want dependable 12V jump starts without the bulk of traditional chargers.

Key Features

• 800 peak amps: Provides enough instantaneous power to jump start up to 6.0L gas engines and a wide range of vehicles including cars, trucks, motorcycles, boats, and ATVs.
• Lithium-ion power pack: The four-cell lithium battery is compact yet robust, delivering multiple jump starts from a single charge and a long usable life.
• Fast USB charging: The 2.4A USB port charges phones and tablets quicker than a standard USB port, and the power bank supports power delivery for more efficient device charging.
• Quick recharge: Internal battery fully recharges in about 4 hours via Micro USB, considerably faster than many traditional AGM-style jump starters.
• Built-in LED light: The three-mode area light offers useful emergency illumination for under-the-hood work or roadside situations.
• Safety features: Reverse hook-up protection helps prevent damage from incorrect clamp connections, adding peace of mind during use.

Who It's For

The SL1638 is best for drivers who want a small, easy-to-store jump starter that fits in a glove box, backpack, or purse and can also charge mobile devices. It is well suited for owners of motorcycles, ATVs, and 4- to 6-cylinder cars who value portability and quick recharge over industrial battery capacity.

Those who need repeated heavy-duty jumps for large diesel trucks or who prefer integrated AC charging and multi-bay battery support should look at larger portable power stations; the SL1638 is optimized for compact convenience rather than continuous heavy commercial use.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• High peak output in a compact unit makes it easy to carry and store without sacrificing jump capability.
• Multiuse power bank function with 2.4A USB and power delivery lets users charge phones, tablets, and wearables on the go.
• Fast internal recharge and the ability to perform up to about 15 jump starts per charge reduces downtime between uses.
• Built-in three-mode LED provides practical emergency illumination during night roadside repairs.

Cons

• Designed for 12V systems and gasoline engines up to 6.0L, so it is not intended for large diesel truck batteries or prolonged heavy use.
• Requires its Micro USB charging cable and access to a USB power source for recharging, rather than a dedicated AC charger included.

Specifications

Peak Amps	800 A
Battery Type	Four-cell lithium-ion
Engine Compatibility	Up to 6.0L gas engines
USB Output	2.4A USB with power delivery (29.6 Wh)
Jump Starts Per Charge	Up to 15 jumps
Recharge Time	About 4 hours via Micro USB
Built-in Light	Three-mode LED area light

Our Verdict

The SL1638 is a smart choice for drivers and outdoor enthusiasts who need a lightweight, portable jump starter that also charges devices and lights work areas. Its balance of 800 peak amps, quick recharge, and compact size makes it good value for personal and recreational use, while its safety features add confidence for emergency roadside situations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many times will it jump start a car on a single charge?
The internal lithium battery can deliver roughly up to 15 jump starts on a single full charge under typical conditions.

Can it charge my phone and laptop?
Yes, the unit has a 2.4A USB output and supports power delivery for faster charging of phones, tablets, and some laptops within the power pack's 29.6 Wh capacity.

Is it safe to use if clamps are connected incorrectly?
Yes, the SL1638 includes reverse hook-up protection to help prevent damage if clamps are attached incorrectly.