Being stranded somewhere because you left the lights on is never a fun experience, but it can be a lot more bearable if you have a reliable jump starter to get your vehicle running again. Even worse is when the battery on your mower dies and you're stuck in a yard. The easiest way to fix this is by having a jump starter.
A quick Google search will reveal more portable jump starter options than you could ever reasonably expect to try in a single lifetime, so let’s just focus on one model: the DeWALT 1400 Peak Amp Jump Starter with Digital Compressor. Available at your local Home Depot or online from Amazon, this 2-in-1 device is easy enough to obtain, but is it worth the money? We took a look to find out!
Pros
- Multi-function (jump-start, air compressor, alternator check feature, dual-USB charging ports, and LED lights)
- 700 amps (peak of 1,400 amps)
- Relatively lightweight at only 35 lbs.
Cons
- Doesn’t include a charging cord… make sure you get one here
- No 12V cigarette lighter port
Design
Visually, this model (known as the DeWALT DXAEJ14) isn’t anything special. That said, it doesn’t look bad—it simply looks nearly identical to every other 2-in-1 jump starter on the market! The handles and exterior trim of the device are black, with the main body of the jump starter being yellow. This is in line with all the other DeWALT products (which follow the same color scheme). The device has a built-in carrying handle on top, so transporting the thing shouldn’t present much of an issue. Jumper cables wrap around the body and clip on the sides, while the air hose folds neatly into the back. DeWALT doesn’t include a charging cable with the 2-in-1 tool, but it does have a plug you can use to connect the device to any available extension cord.
Function & Features
The main purpose of the DXAEJ14 is its claimed ability to jump-start vehicles (specifically V8 engines). It can accomplish this easily enough, thanks to a start amperage of 700 amps with a peak of 1,400 amps. The device has a built-in alert system to warn you if you’ve connected the cables incorrectly, which is a nice feature. Although the air compressor is a secondary feature, it’s still an essential function of the device. Using what DeWALT calls a “Sure Fit” nozzle, you can pump a tire up to 120 PSI using the compressor function. To do this, simply set the air pressure and let the air flow; the device will turn off when the selected PSI has been reached.
The DXAEJ14 also includes two USB outlets located on the front-right of the device. Although not powerful enough to support fast charging, these ports should be more than adequate for charging your basic mobile devices. The unit also has two LED work lights on the back of the device, and even includes an alternator test function!
Interface
The little LCD interface on the front of this device isn’t particularly fancy, but it is fully-functional. Although you don’t get a color display, you do get all the important information (such as the device’s remaining battery life, the tire PSI, and more) displayed on a single screen. The device is easy enough to operate, utilizing a mode-selecting knob with a variety of labeled buttons on the front of the unit.
Charging the Device
As previously mentioned, this device does not come with a dedicated charger. That said, you shouldn’t have any trouble charging up the unit. You can use an extension cord (which the device plugs directly into) to charge the DXAEJ14 from a wall outlet. There is also a cigarette charger port you can use if you need to charge the device on the go.
Is It Worth It?
To be perfectly honest, this jump starter is pretty good. There have definitely been some negative reviews about faulty devices but it seems there are far more positive reviews. In my experience, the Dewalt jump starter has done a great job. It have used it on trucks and mowers and it has never let me down.
Overall, I would say this jump starter is definitely worth it. Sure, you can probably find less expensive units on the market but the reliablity and performace of the Dewalt is very good. I would definitely recommend it.
Alternative – JNCAIR Jump Starter
Maybe the Dewalt jumper starter isn't for you. If so, the JNCAIR jump starter is a great alternative. It is usually a bit more expensive but it is a great tool. I have also used this jump starter and air compressor with great results. It does a wonderful job and I think the closest competitor to the Dewalt model.
What do you think?
Do you currently have a portable air compressor? Which do you have and do you like it? Leave us a comment below.
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I have the 1400 dewalt I recieved for christmas and the first time I use it the air compressor turns on and immediately shuts off. Pos in my opinion.