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# How to Choose Which Jumper Cables to Buy
- URL: https://www.cookiesandclogs.com/kind-jumper-cables-buy-matter/
- Published: 2014-01-03T07:06:08.000Z
- Updated: 2017-10-09T21:16:54.000Z
- Description: Many don’t realize that it really does matter which kind of jumper cables you buy. Who cares if they were on sale with an additional 30% off if the stinkin’…
- Author: TerriAnn van Gosliga
- Tags: Automotive, Car Tips, #wp, #wp-post, #Import 2026-09-10 09:18

Many don’t realize that it really does matter which kind of jumper cables you buy. Who cares if they were on sale with an additional 30% off if the stinkin’ things won’t [jump start](https://www.cookiesandclogs.com/how-jump-start-jumper-cables-printable/) your car when it’s dead?!

![How to choose which jumper cables you should buy #cars](https://storage.ghost.io/c/eb/2c/eb2c2494-1e98-4067-8fbf-8a48d9dd30cf/content/images/cookiesandclogs-local/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/how-to-choose-jumper-cables-01.jpg)

### How to Choose Jumper Cables – Minimum Specs

- Cost: MSRP around $40-$60\. Amazon has a great selection of [jumper cables](http://www.amazon.com/b/?%5Fencoding=UTF8&ajr=0&camp=1789&creative=390957&linkCode=ur2&node=15719941&tag=cookiesandclogs-20&ref=cookiesandclogs.com)![](https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=cookiesandclogs-20&l=ur2&o=1) for reasonable prices.
- Width: Thicker is better but can be deceiving, as can the ‘heavy-duty’ label. Check the gauge amount instead.
- Gauge: 10 is garbage, 8 is plenty sufficient, 6 is better, 4 is probably more than you’ll need (unless you need to jump a semi-truck). The lower the gauge, the more power goes through and the faster it will charge.
- Clamp: The more sturdy the clamp, the better it will stay. If it has teeth, it’s even more reassuring that the clamps won’t slip off the battery terminals. Also, solid rubber-coated handles will lessen chances of shock.
- Length: At least 12′ for a basic reach.

These are good to have on hand in case of emergency. However, it’s even better if you learn [how to use jumper cables](https://www.cookiesandclogs.com/how-jump-start-jumper-cables-printable/).