We are in an era where sustainability and energy efficiency are crucial, and the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) is rapidly gaining traction. As more people embrace EV ownership, the demand for effective charging solutions has surged. This blog post aims to guidance amidst the many options available in the market. Whether you’re a seasoned EV owner seeking to upgrade your charging setup or a newcomer entering the world of electric mobility, choosing the right EV charger is vital for optimizing your charging routine. From home chargers to public stations, the range of choices can be overwhelming. We have researched and evaluated various EV chargers to present you with a comprehensive and informative “Buying Guide”.
We acknowledge that the needs and preferences of EV owners vary, which is why our selection process considers a diverse array of factors. From charging speed and compatibility to durability and user-friendliness, we have taken all aspects into account to compile a list of top-tier EV chargers that cater to different requirements. Our editorial team has rigorously reviewed a wide selection of EV chargers to ensure that our recommendations are tailored to meet the diverse needs of EV owners.
Throughout our assessment, three key factors have played a pivotal role in shaping our choices:
- Charging Speed and Efficiency: Recognizing the importance of time, particularly in charging EVs, we have prioritized chargers offering swift and efficient charging capabilities, enabling you to get back on the road quickly.
- Compatibility and Versatility: With the EV market continually evolving, compatibility with various vehicle models and charging standards is essential. We have focused on chargers that offer broad compatibility and versatility, ensuring seamless integration with various EVs.
- Durability and Reliability: Investing in an EV charger is a long-term commitment, and durability is crucial for ensuring its longevity. We have scrutinized the build quality and reliability of each charger, selecting only those that meet stringent durability standards, guaranteeing years of dependable performance.
Taking into account these fundamental elements, we believe that our handpicked selection of top EV chargers will be a helpful guide for electric vehicle owners aiming to improve their charging setup.
Best EV Charger Table
| EV Charger | Adjustable Amperage | Cable Length | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| ChargePoint EV Charger | 16A To 50A | 23 Feet | Check On Amazon |
| Grizzl-E EV Charger | 16A, 24A, 32A, and 40A | 24 Feet | Check On Amazon |
| Lectron EV Charger | 14A to 50A | 21 Feet | Check On Amazon |
| EMPORIA EV Charger | Maximum 48A | 24 Feet | Check On Amazon |
| JuiceBox EV Charger | 40A | 25 Feet | Check On Amazon |
| MUSTART EV Charger | 40A | 25 Feet | Check On Amazon |
| MEGER EV Charger | 16A | 25 Feet | Check On Amazon |
Best EV Charger Reviews
1. ChargePoint EV Charger
Why it Made the Cut: Versatile, fast, smart, durable charging.
The EV Charger from ChargePoint, leading the pack as the top-ranked EV charger, proves ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. It substantially cuts down on charging time compared to a standard outlet, ensuring a swift return to the road, no matter if you drive a Chevrolet Bolt EV, Tesla, or another popular electric vehicle model. You can easily adjust amperage settings from 16 to 50 amps to suit your needs and electrical setup.
Moreover, it flaunts user-friendly features that simplify the charging process. Take advantage of the ChargePoint app to schedule charging sessions, receive reminders, and keep track of your charging history. Plus, its compatibility with Alexa devices enables convenient voice-controlled charging. Installation is straightforward, whether you choose a plug-in or hardwired installation. With its Energy Star rating and UL Listing, you can trust in its safety and effectiveness. And with a 23-foot charging cable included, accessing your vehicle is made even more convenient.
Specifications
- Compatibility with all leading EV models
- Adjustable amperage settings from 16 to 50 amps
- Wi-Fi-enabled for smart charging
- Energy Star rated for efficiency
- UL Listed for safety
- 23-foot charging cable for flexibility
Pros
- Lightning-fast charging speeds
- Versatile amperage settings
- Smart features for convenient charging
- Easy installation indoors or outdoors
Cons
- May face connectivity issues with the app very often.
2. Grizzl-E EV Charger
Why it Made the Cut: Heavy-duty, portable, weather-resistant charging solution.
For a reliable and efficient solution for charging electric vehicles, consider the Grizzl-E Avalanche Edition Level 2 EV Charger. Engineered to endure harsh conditions while delivering rapid charging, this charger is suitable for both home and on-the-go use. It holds UL certification and boasts an IP67 rating, ensuring protection against water and fire hazards for a safe charging experience.
Featuring adjustable amperage settings from 16 to 40 amps, the Grizzl-E charger can customize its charging output to match your EV’s needs, providing up to 30 miles of range per hour of charging. Installation is simple – just plug it into a NEMA 14-50 outlet. With its 24-foot cable, you have ample flexibility in placement. Additionally, its robust metal casing and integrated GFCI enhance safety while maintaining top-notch performance.
Specifications
- UL certified and IP67 rated for durability
- Adjustable amperage settings from 16 to 40 amps
- Fast charging with up to 30 miles of range per hour
- Compatible with all EVs sold in North America
- Portable design with 24-foot premium cable
- Built-in GFCI for enhanced safety
Pros
- Heavy-duty and weather-resistant construction
- Portable design for on-the-go charging
- Easy installation with plug-and-play functionality
- Adjustable amperage settings for versatile charging
- Compatible with all EVs and PHEVs sold in North America
- Premium 24-foot cable for flexible placement options
Cons
- The charger relatively heavy for transport.
3. Lectron EV Charger
Why it Made the Cut: Fast, durable, and versatile charging solution.
Crafted for convenient and swift charging, this durable and compact device from Lectron is an excellent addition to any home. Its 21-foot extension cord grants extensive reach, suitable for most home driveways or garages. Featuring a NEMA 14-50 plug and 240V input power, it delivers Level 2 charging capabilities, guaranteeing your electric vehicle’s prompt readiness.
Utilizing the widely accepted J1772 charging protocol, the Lectron charger seamlessly accommodates all-electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, making it an adaptable choice for households with multiple EVs or commercial establishments with EV charging infrastructure. Boasting LED indicator lights, it offers real-time updates on the charging status and promptly notifies you of any detected issues, ensuring each charging session is both safe and efficient.
Specifications
- Fast charging with a NEMA 14-50 plug and 240V input power
- Compact and durable design with a 21-foot extension cord
- Compatible with all-electric cars and plug-in hybrid vehicles
- LED indicator lights for real-time charging status updates
- High-grade, rugged materials for long-lasting durability
- 1-year warranty for peace of mind
Pros
- Rapid charging functionality to facilitate swift turnarounds.
- Streamlined and resilient structure ideal for domestic applications
- Flexible adaptability to various electric vehicle models
- LED lights display charging progress for ease of monitoring
- Premium materials guarantee prolonged robustness
- A 12-month guarantee to provide extra assurance.
Cons
- Requires a NEMA 14-50 outlet for installation, which may not be available in all locations
4. EMPORIA EV Charger
Why it Made the Cut: Smart, efficient, and safe charging solution.
The Emporia charger combines intelligence, efficiency, and safety features, making it an excellent option for electric vehicle owners. With a default charging rate set at 40A and customizable settings, this charger ensures rapid and dependable charging for your EV. Whether you’re charging at home or on the go, the Emporia charger assures its UL and Energy Star certifications, guaranteeing adherence to safety and efficiency standards.
Installation options are flexible, accommodating both hardwired and plug-in setups to align with your preferences. Featuring a 24-foot cable and an SAE J1772 connector, it offers convenience and compatibility with all-electric vehicles. Furthermore, its real-time energy monitoring capabilities, accessible through Wi-Fi connectivity and the Emporia app, allow you to monitor charging sessions and optimize energy usage, ultimately saving you money in the long term.
Specifications
- Default charge rate of 40A with adjustable settings
- UL and Energy Star certified for safety and efficiency
- Versatile installation options: hardwired or plugged
- 24-foot cable with SAE J1772 connector for compatibility with all-electric vehicles
- Wi-Fi connectivity for real-time energy monitoring and control via the Emporia app
- Smart grid savings with scheduling options for charging during off-peak hours
Pros
- Fast and efficient charging with adjustable settings
- Compatibility with all-electric vehicles for broad usage
- Various installation choices for ease of use
- Live energy tracking and management through Wi-Fi connectivity
- Certified by UL and Energy Star for safety and efficiency
- Maximized smart grid savings with scheduling features for ideal charging periods
Cons
- May require professional installation for hardwired setup
5. JuiceBox EV Charger
Why it Made the Cut: Intelligent, efficient, and versatile charging solution.
The JuiceBox is one of the most a preferred option for electric vehicle (EV) owners due to its cutting-edge technology and versatility. Sporting a robust 40-amp charging capacity, it can charge your EV up to seven times faster than conventional chargers, minimizing wait times and enhancing convenience significantly. Whether you’re at home or on the move, the JuiceBox ensures reliable and efficient charging on every occasion.
Equipped with built-in WiFi connectivity and the complimentary JuiceNet app, managing and monitoring charging remotely becomes effortless. Users can receive notifications once their vehicle reaches full charge and can set charging reminders directly from their smartphone. The charger’s dynamic LED lights indicate the charging status, adding a contemporary flair to the charging process. Moreover, with ENERGY STAR certification and UL listing, users can trust in the JuiceBox’s energy efficiency and safety features.
Specifications
- High-power 40-amp charging capability for fast charging
- WiFi connectivity and JuiceNet app for remote monitoring and control
- Dynamic LED lights for visual charging status updates
- ENERGY STAR certified and UL listed for energy efficiency and safety
- Compatible with all-electric vehicles via a NEMA 14-50 plug
- Built-in cable rack and security lock for added convenience and security
Pros
- Rapid charging up to 7 times faster than standard chargers
- Convenient WiFi connectivity and smartphone app for remote control
- Visual charging status updates with dynamic LED lights
- ENERGY STAR certification and UL listing for energy efficiency and safety
- Versatile compatibility with all-electric vehicles
- Ease of use and protection
Cons
- Connectivity issues with the WiFi feature
6. MUSTART EV Charger
Why it Made the Cut: High-speed charging, reliability, and durability.
The MUSTART charger delivers swift and consistent charging, and takes the 6th spot as the best EV charger for its solid performance. Running at 40 amps and 240 volts, it ensures effective charging to maintain your EV’s readiness for travel. Whether you’re stationed at home, your workplace, or on the move, this charger guarantees convenience and assurance.
Crafted for durability and optimal performance, the MUSTART charger boasts premium construction materials and incorporates several safety measures. These safeguards prevent issues such as overcurrent, overvoltage, undervoltage, overheating, and leakage. Its small footprint and a 25-foot charging cable provide versatility for installation across various settings.
Specifications
- High-speed charging with 40-amp capacity and 240-volt input voltage
- Compact size with a 25-foot charging cable for flexible installation
- Built-in protections against overcurrent, overvoltage, undervoltage, overheat, and leakage
- Compatible with most electric vehicles in the United States
- ETL certified for safety and reliability
- 2-year warranty for peace of mind
Pros
- Fast and efficient charging for quick turnaround
- Compact size and long charging cable for flexible installation
- Safe and reliable charging
- Works with most electric vehicles in the United States
- Endorsed for its safety and dependability through ETL certification.
- A two-year warranty offers extra peace of mind.
Cons
- Differences in performance
7. MEGER EV Charger
Why it Made the Cut: High-speed charging, reliability, and comprehensive safety features.
The MEGEAR provides a reliable and efficient solution for charging electric vehicles, outperforming basic level 1 chargers to minimize wait times and maximize driving time. Prioritizing safety, it incorporates a smart-chip detection system that safeguards against potential issues such as overheating and power surges, ensuring a worry-free charging experience.
Compatible with all standard electric vehicles and Tesla models when used with an SAE J1772 Charging Adapter, it offers versatility to users. The LED indicator simplifies tracking of charging progress and facilitates troubleshooting of any encountered errors. Backed by a 1-year limited warranty and lifetime technical support, this EV charger guarantees both durability and ongoing assistance.
Specifications
- High-speed charging capability for faster charging experience
- Smart-chip detection system for comprehensive safety features
- Compatible with all SAE J1772 standard electric vehicles and Tesla models
- LED indicator for easy monitoring of charging progress and errors
Pros
- Quick charging to minimize waiting time
- Extensive safety measures to ensure tranquility
- Support for various electric vehicle models
- LED display for convenient oversight and issue resolution
- 1-year limited warranty and ongoing technical assistance for extra confidence
Cons
- Differences in fit and power
Factors to Consider and Top Features to Look for in an EV Charger
The rising popularity of electric vehicles (EVs) stems from their eco-friendly and sustainable characteristics. Nevertheless, maximizing the efficiency of EV charging is crucial for EV owners. Choosing the right EV charger is vital to enhance your vehicle’s performance and convenience. Below are key considerations and top features to consider when selecting the ideal EV charger for your needs.
1. Charging Speed and Power
The rate at which your electric vehicle (EV) charges, known as charging speed, is quantified in kilowatts (kW). Higher charging speeds translate to reduced wait times for your vehicle to be fully charged and ready to use. Aim for chargers with greater power outputs, such as Level 2 chargers capable of handling 240 volts, to ensure quicker charging of your EV.
2. Compatibility with Your EV
Various electric vehicles may require specific charging connectors or protocols. It’s important to ensure that the charger you’re looking at aligns with your EV’s charging port to avoid any compatibility issues. Additionally, certain chargers may necessitate adapters for particular EV models, so it’s prudent to examine compatibility specifications before making a purchase.
3. Installation Requirements
Verify if your household electrical system can accommodate the power requirements of the charger. Additionally, assess the appropriateness and accessibility of the selected installation site, whether indoors or outdoors. Depending on the specific model, certain chargers may necessitate professional help for installation, whereas others may provide easier do-it-yourself alternatives.
4. Smart Charging Features
These functionalities are aimed at enhancing the convenience and effectiveness of the charging process for users. Through intelligent charging functions, users can plan charging sessions, monitor charging progress remotely, and regulate energy usage based on electricity pricing. Certain chargers also sync with mobile applications or home automation setups, providing additional control and adaptability to the charging schedule.
5. Safety Certifications
It’s essential to prioritize safety when charging electric vehicles. Opt for chargers that have undergone rigorous safety testing and possess certifications like UL certification. Seek out features like surge protection, overcurrent protection, and ground fault detection to mitigate electrical risks and ensure a secure charging experience.
6. Durability and Weatherproofing
Choose chargers constructed from durable materials and enclosures designed to withstand exposure to various weather conditions such as rain, snow, and extreme temperatures. By opting for a sturdy and weather-resistant charger, you ensure reliable performance and durability, even in challenging environmental situations.
Best EV Charger – FAQs
Ans: Level 2 EV chargers can typically charge an electric vehicle at a rate of 15 to 30 miles of range per hour, depending on the charger’s power output and the vehicle’s battery capacity.
Ans: Not all EV chargers are compatible with all-electric vehicles. It’s essential to check the charger’s compatibility with your specific EV model to ensure proper charging.
Ans: Yes, most Level 2 EV chargers require a dedicated 240-volt outlet, such as a NEMA 14-50 outlet, for proper installation and operation.
Ans: Smart charging features allow you to schedule charging sessions, monitor charging status remotely, and optimize energy usage based on electricity rates, enhancing convenience and efficiency.
Ans: Some EV chargers support charging multiple vehicles simultaneously, but it’s essential to check the charger’s specifications and capacity to ensure compatibility.
Ans: Yes, many EV chargers can be integrated with renewable energy systems such as solar panels, allowing you to charge your electric vehicle using clean, sustainable energy.
Conclusion
Investing in a high-quality EV charger not only guarantees swifter and more effective charging but also enhances safety and dependability. With the rapid advancements in electric vehicle technology, it’s essential to stay abreast of the latest developments in EV charging infrastructure and opt for a charger equipped with innovative features while adhering to industry norms. Ultimately, choosing the right EV charger greatly enhances the convenience and satisfaction of owning an electric vehicle by prioritizing crucial factors and opting for superior performance, adaptability, and dependability.
As electric vehicles continue to reshape the automotive sector, selecting the optimal EV charger is indispensable for sustainably powering your electric vehicle, be it at home, work, or during travels. Make a prudent decision and embark on a cleaner, more sustainable future with your electric vehicle and the ideal EV charger tailored to your requirements.
