As electric vehicles become increasingly common, the need for efficient home charging solutions is greater than ever. While most EVs come with a Level 1 charger for basic trickle charging from a standard wall outlet, upgrading to a Level 2 EV car charger can dramatically speed up your charging times and enhance your EV ownership experience. A Level 2 charger can add significantly more miles of range per hour compared to a Level 1, making overnight charging practical and ensuring your EV is ready when you are.
After extensive research and testing, we’ve identified the Emporia Level 2 EV Charger (J1772 version) and the Emporia Level 2 EV Charger (NACS version) as the top choices for home charging. Whether your EV uses a standard J1772 connector or the increasingly popular NACS (North American Charging Standard) connector, Emporia offers a powerful, user-friendly, and space-saving solution.
But the Best Ev Car Charger for you depends on your specific needs and budget. Let’s dive into our top recommendations, covering various scenarios and preferences, to help you find the perfect charger for your electric vehicle.
Our Top EV Charger Recommendations
We’ve evaluated a range of Level 2 EV chargers based on power, ease of use, durability, features, and value. Here are our top picks to help you choose the best EV car charger for your home:
Top Pick
Emporia Level 2 EV Charger J1772 version for optimal home electric vehicle charging
Emporia Level 2 EV Charger (J1772 version)
The Best Home Charger for J1772 EVs
The Emporia Level 2 EV Charger (J1772) stands out as the best overall home charger for electric vehicles utilizing the J1772 connector. It delivers rapid Level 2 charging in a compact and robust design. Featuring a 24-foot cable, it offers ample reach, and its exceptional weather resistance ensures reliable performance in any conditions.
Buying Options
$399 from Amazon
$625 from Best Buy
Emporia Level 2 EV Charger NACS version for Tesla and other NACS compatible electric vehicles
Emporia Level 2 EV Charger (NACS version)
The Best Home Charger for NACS EVs
For Tesla owners and those with EVs adopting the NACS connector, the Emporia Level 2 EV Charger (NACS) is the ideal home charging solution. Mirroring the J1772 version in performance and build quality, this charger provides fast Level 2 charging, a space-saving design, a generous 24-foot cord, and excellent weatherproofing.
Buying Options
$399 from Amazon
$399 from Best Buy
The Emporia Level 2 EV Chargers (both J1772 and NACS versions) are designed for up to 48 amps of charging power. This allows for a full charge of most EV batteries within approximately five to eight hours, a claim validated through rigorous testing. The 24-foot cable is exceptionally long, maximizing placement flexibility within your garage or driveway. Installation is versatile, supporting both hardwired and plug-in configurations, although plug-in installation limits the charging speed to 40 amps.
Safety and durability are paramount. Both Emporia chargers are UL listed, ensuring compliance with stringent safety standards. Their NEMA 4 rating (similar to IP66) signifies complete dust protection and resistance to strong water jets, making them suitable for outdoor installation. Priced around $400, they also come with a reassuring three-year warranty.
Emporia Level 2 EV Charger Key Specs:
- Maximum Current Rating: 48 amps
- Weatherization Rating: IP66 (Dustproof and Water-resistant)
- Installation Options: Hardwired, NEMA 14-50 Plug
- Warranty: 3 years
Budget Pick
United Chargers Grizzl-E Classic 40A reliable and affordable EV charger
United Chargers Grizzl-E Classic 40A
A Great EV Charger, For Less
The United Chargers Grizzl-E Classic 40A offers a compelling blend of performance and affordability, making it an excellent budget-friendly EV car charger. It provides many features comparable to our top pick but at a more accessible price point. This charger is a robust and reliable option for those seeking a cost-effective Level 2 charging solution.
Buying Options
$399 from Amazon
For EV owners on a tighter budget who don’t mind slightly longer charging times, the United Chargers Grizzl-E Classic 40A is a fantastic alternative. While it charges at a slightly lower maximum of 40 amps, it still offers significantly faster charging than Level 1 options. It’s compatible with J1772 connectors and can be used with a NACS adapter (holster sold separately) for Tesla vehicles.
The Grizzl-E Classic 40A can charge most EV batteries in approximately six to nine hours. It features a generous 25-foot cable and offers both hardwired and plug-in installation options. Like the Emporia, it’s UL listed for safety and boasts an impressive IP67 rating, indicating complete protection against dust and the ability to withstand submersion in shallow water. Typically priced around $350, it includes a three-year warranty, with an extended five-year warranty available for an additional $100.
United Chargers Grizzl-E Classic 40A Key Specs:
- Maximum Current Rating: 40 amps
- Weatherization Rating: IP67 (Dustproof and Waterproof)
- Installation Options: Hardwired, NEMA 14-50 Plug, NEMA 6-50 Plug
- Warranty: 3 years (5 years optional)
Best for Charging Two EVs
United Chargers Grizzl-E Duo dual port EV charger for simultaneous charging
United Chargers Grizzl-E Duo
Best for Charging Two EVs Simultaneously
If your household has two electric vehicles, the United Chargers Grizzl-E Duo is the best EV car charger to consider. This unique Level 2 charger is designed to charge two EVs at the same time, eliminating the need for two separate charging stations. It’s an efficient solution for multi-EV families looking to simplify their home charging setup.
Buying Options
$900 from Amazon
The United Chargers Grizzl-E Duo is one of the few Level 2 chargers capable of simultaneously charging two electric vehicles. It features two J1772 connectors and, like the Classic model, is compatible with NACS adapters (holster sold separately).
When charging a single vehicle, the Grizzl-E Duo delivers up to 40 amps. When charging two EVs concurrently, it intelligently splits the power, providing up to 20 amps to each vehicle. While simultaneous charging naturally takes longer, it remains a convenient solution for households with multiple EVs.
The Grizzl-E Duo comes with two 24-foot cables and is designed for plug-in installation with either a NEMA 14-50 or NEMA 6-50 outlet. It cannot be hardwired, but this doesn’t impact charging speed as it’s already capped at 40 amps total. It also shares the robust IP67 weatherization rating and UL listing of the other Grizzl-E models. The Grizzl-E Duo is priced around $800 and includes a three-year warranty.
United Chargers Grizzl-E Duo Key Specs:
- Maximum Current Rating: 40 amps (20 amps per port when dual charging)
- Weatherization Rating: IP67 (Dustproof and Waterproof)
- Installation Options: NEMA 14-50 Plug, NEMA 6-50 Plug
- Warranty: 3 years
Best Portable EV Car Charger
Lectron Portable Level 2 Charger J1772 version compact and mobile charging solution
Lectron Portable Level 2 Charger (J1772 version)
The Best J1772 Charger to Carry With You
For EV owners needing a charging solution on the go, the Lectron Portable Level 2 Charger (J1772 version) is the best portable EV car charger. This compact and lightweight charger offers Level 2 charging speeds in a package designed for easy transport. It’s ideal for travel, work, or situations where a fixed charging station isn’t available.
Buying Options
$217 from Amazon
$300 from Best Buy
$280 from The Home Depot
Lectron Portable Level 2 Charger NACS version for portable Tesla and NACS charging
Lectron Portable Level 2 Charger (NACS version)
The Best NACS Charger for Portability
Tesla and NACS EV owners seeking a portable charging solution will find the Lectron Portable Level 2 Charger (NACS version) to be the best NACS portable EV car charger. Offering the same portability and convenience as the J1772 version, this charger ensures you can access Level 2 charging speeds wherever you go, even when away from home charging stations.
Buying Options
$270 from Amazon
$290 from Best Buy
$312 from The Home Depot
The Lectron Portable Level 2 Chargers (both J1772 and NACS) are designed for EV owners who need charging flexibility. Offering up to 40 amps of charging power, they provide a significant upgrade over Level 1 charging while remaining compact enough to easily store in your vehicle’s trunk. These chargers are perfect for road trips or for those who park in different locations regularly.
The Lectron portable chargers feature a 16-foot cable and are designed for plug-in use with a NEMA 14-50 outlet. While they are not as heavily weatherized as our other top picks, their IP65 rating still provides excellent dust protection and resistance to light water spray. The warranty is two years, slightly shorter than the others, but they are generally the most affordable of our recommended chargers, typically costing around $260-$275.
Lectron Portable Level 2 Charger Key Specs:
- Maximum Current Rating: 40 amps
- Weatherization Rating: IP65 (Dustproof and Moderately Water-resistant)
- Installation Options: NEMA 14-50 Plug
- Warranty: 2 years
Factors to Consider When Choosing an EV Car Charger
Selecting the best EV car charger involves considering several factors to ensure it meets your needs and vehicle requirements. Here are key aspects to evaluate:
- Charging Speed (Level 1 vs. Level 2): Level 2 chargers offer significantly faster charging than Level 1. Determine your charging needs and how quickly you want to replenish your EV’s battery.
- Connector Type (J1772 vs. NACS): Ensure the charger is compatible with your EV’s charging port. J1772 is the standard for most EVs, while NACS is increasingly adopted, especially by Tesla and newer models.
- Installation (Plug-in vs. Hardwired): Plug-in chargers are easier to install and move, while hardwired chargers often support higher amperage and may qualify for rebates. Consider your electrical setup and desired charging speed.
- Amperage: Higher amperage chargers deliver faster charging speeds. Common amperages for home chargers range from 32A to 48A. Match the amperage to your vehicle’s charging capacity and your home’s electrical panel.
- Cord Length: A longer cord provides more flexibility in charger placement relative to your parking spot and electrical outlet. Consider your garage or parking layout when choosing cord length.
- Weather Resistance: If installing outdoors, choose a charger with a robust weather resistance rating (IP65 or higher) to withstand dust, rain, and snow.
- Smart Features: Some chargers offer smart features like Wi-Fi connectivity, app control, scheduling, energy monitoring, and integration with smart home systems. Decide if these features are important to you.
- Budget: EV chargers range in price. Determine your budget and balance features and performance with cost.
By considering these factors, you can confidently select the best EV car charger that provides convenient, efficient, and reliable home charging for your electric vehicle.
