For electric vehicle (EV) owners, maximizing charging speed and convenience at home is crucial. While most EVs come with a Level 1 charger, upgrading to a Level 2 charger significantly enhances your home charging experience. Level 2 chargers deliver a much faster charging rate, adding miles of range to your EV battery in a fraction of the time compared to Level 1 options. Investing in the Best Electric Vehicle Charger for your needs ensures your EV is always ready to go when you are.
After extensive research and hands-on testing, we’ve identified the top Level 2 EV chargers available on the market today. Our recommendations are designed to cater to various needs and preferences, ensuring you find the ideal home charging solution.
Top Picks for the Best Electric Vehicle Charger
We’ve evaluated numerous Level 2 chargers based on power, ease of use, durability, and features. Here are our top recommendations to help you choose the best electric vehicle charger for your home.
Overall Best Electric Vehicle Charger: Emporia Level 2 EV Charger
The Emporia Level 2 EV Charger stands out as the best overall electric vehicle charger for home use. Available in both J1772 and NACS (North American Charging Standard) versions, it caters to a wide range of EVs.
- For J1772 EVs: Emporia Level 2 EV Charger (J1772 version) – Ideal for EVs utilizing the J1772 connector.
- For NACS EVs (including Tesla): Emporia Level 2 EV Charger (NACS version) – Perfect for Tesla and other EVs using the NACS connector.
The Emporia charger boasts impressive power, user-friendly operation, and a robust build. Its compact design and lengthy 24-foot cord offer flexibility in installation and usage. Notably, it is highly weather-resistant, ensuring reliable performance in various conditions.
Key Features of the Emporia Level 2 EV Charger:
- High Power Charging: Supports up to 48A charging, enabling full EV battery charges in approximately 5 to 8 hours for most EVs.
- Long Cord: Features a 24-foot cord, providing ample reach for different parking configurations.
- Versatile Installation: Offers both hardwired and plug-in (NEMA 14-50) installation options, although plug-in setup limits charging to 40A.
- Safety and Durability: UL Listed for safety and NEMA 4 (IP66 equivalent) rated for dust and water resistance.
- Warranty: Comes with a 3-year warranty.
For EV owners seeking a top-performing, reliable, and versatile home charging solution, the Emporia Level 2 EV Charger is an excellent choice and arguably the best electric vehicle charger in its class.
Best Budget Electric Vehicle Charger: United Chargers Grizzl-E Classic 40A
If budget is a primary concern without compromising essential features, the United Chargers Grizzl-E Classic 40A is the best electric vehicle charger in the budget category. This charger provides excellent value, offering comparable capabilities to premium models at a more accessible price point. It uses the J1772 connector and is compatible with NACS adapters.
Key Features of the United Chargers Grizzl-E Classic 40A:
- Efficient Charging: Supports up to 40A charging, charging most EV batteries in 6 to 9 hours.
- Longer Cord: Features a slightly longer 25-foot cord for added convenience.
- Robust Weatherproofing: IP67 rating, ensuring full protection against dust and water immersion.
- Installation Flexibility: Offers hardwire and plug-in (NEMA 14-50 and NEMA 6-50) installation options.
- Warranty: Comes with a standard 3-year warranty, with an option to extend to 5 years for an additional cost.
The Grizzl-E Classic 40A delivers reliable Level 2 charging without breaking the bank, making it a top contender for the best budget electric vehicle charger.
Best Electric Vehicle Charger for Dual EVs: United Chargers Grizzl-E Duo
For households with multiple EVs, the United Chargers Grizzl-E Duo is the best electric vehicle charger designed to charge two EVs simultaneously. Equipped with two J1772 connectors, it can also accommodate NACS adapters.
Key Features of the United Chargers Grizzl-E Duo:
- Dual Charging Capability: Charges two EVs at once, distributing up to 40A of power (20A per vehicle when both are charging).
- Long Cords: Features two 24-foot cords, one for each connector.
- Weatherproof and Durable: IP67 weatherization rating and UL Listed for safety.
- Plug-in Installation: Designed for plug-in installation with NEMA 14-50 or NEMA 6-50 outlets (no hardwire option).
- Warranty: Includes a 3-year warranty.
While charging two EVs simultaneously will take longer compared to single-vehicle charging, the Grizzl-E Duo provides a convenient solution for multi-EV households, solidifying its position as the best electric vehicle charger for dual EV owners.
Best Portable Electric Vehicle Charger: Lectron Portable Level 2 Charger
For EV owners needing a portable charging solution, the Lectron Portable Level 2 Charger is the best electric vehicle charger for on-the-go charging. Available in both J1772 and NACS versions, it offers Level 2 charging speed in a compact, trunk-friendly design.
- For J1772 EVs: Lectron Portable Level 2 Charger (J1772 version) – Portable Level 2 charging for J1772 compatible EVs.
- For NACS EVs (including Tesla): Lectron Portable Level 2 Charger (NACS version) – Portable Level 2 charging for NACS compatible EVs.
Key Features of the Lectron Portable Level 2 Charger:
- Portable and Compact: Easy to store and transport, ideal for travel and charging away from home.
- Fast Charging for Portability: Supports up to 40A charging, similar to stationary Level 2 chargers.
- Decent Cord Length: Features a 16-foot cord, balancing portability with usability.
- Weather Resistant: IP65 rated for dust and moderate water spray resistance.
- Plug-in Installation: Designed for NEMA 14-50 plug-in installation.
- Warranty: Comes with a 2-year warranty.
While slightly less weather-resistant than our other top picks and with a shorter warranty, the Lectron Portable Level 2 Charger provides a powerful and convenient portable charging option, making it the best electric vehicle charger for EV owners on the move.
Choosing the Right Electric Vehicle Charger: Key Considerations
Selecting the best electric vehicle charger depends on individual needs and circumstances. Here are some crucial factors to consider:
- Connector Type: Ensure the charger is compatible with your EV’s charging port (J1772 or NACS).
- Charging Speed (Amperage): Higher amperage chargers provide faster charging. Consider your typical charging needs and electrical panel capacity.
- Installation Type: Decide between plug-in or hardwired installation based on your home’s electrical setup and desired charging speed.
- Cord Length: A longer cord offers more flexibility in parking and charger placement.
- Weather Resistance: Essential for outdoor installations to ensure durability and reliability.
- Budget: Balance features and performance with your budget to find the best value.
Conclusion: Investing in the Best Electric Vehicle Charger
Upgrading to a Level 2 charger is a worthwhile investment for any EV owner seeking faster charging times and greater convenience. Whether you prioritize top performance, affordability, dual-EV charging, or portability, there’s a best electric vehicle charger to meet your needs. Our top picks – the Emporia, Grizzl-E Classic, Grizzl-E Duo, and Lectron Portable chargers – represent the best options in their respective categories, ensuring you can find the perfect home charging solution for your electric vehicle.
