It is important to know the difference between a battery charger and a portable jump starter. The car battery charger is usually plugged into a household power outlet (110-120V AC) to charge the battery. They usually take several hours to two days to... moreIt is important to know the difference between a battery charger and a portable jump starter. The car battery charger is usually plugged into a household power outlet (110-120V AC) to charge the battery. They usually take several hours to two days to fully charge.
Although the alternator in the vehicle is responsible for charging the battery, sometimes an additional battery charger is required. This is important if you use the vehicle occasionally or only during certain times of the year. Although this is useless when a breakdown occurs on the side of the road, they can charge your battery when you go home, saving money and road inconvenience.
Unlike chargers, portable jump starters (aka battery boosters, emergency boosters, battery jumpers and jump boxes) can be used anywhere. They do not need to be plugged into a power outlet. They also do not charge your battery, but provide the necessary current to start the engine and start the vehicle. After the engine is started, the alternator will charge... less
