For electric vehicle (EV) owners, maximizing charging speed at home is crucial. While Level 1 chargers come standard with most EVs, upgrading to a Level 2 charging station significantly reduces charging time, adding miles much faster. After extensive research and testing, we’ve identified the top Level 2 chargers available, ensuring you find the best option to keep your EV powered up efficiently.
Choosing the right Level 2 charger is an investment in your EV ownership experience. It’s about more than just faster charging; it’s about convenience, reliability, and future-proofing your home charging setup. Let’s dive into the Best Level 2 Charging Stations on the market, highlighting their strengths and helping you decide which one fits your needs.
Top Level 2 EV Charger Picks
We’ve evaluated numerous Level 2 chargers based on power, ease of use, durability, and features to bring you our top recommendations. Whether you prioritize top performance, budget-friendliness, or specific needs like portability or dual-EV charging, there’s a best level 2 charging station for you.
Best Overall Level 2 Charger
Emporia Level 2 EV Charger (J1772 Version) – The Best Home Charger for J1772 EVs
The Emporia Level 2 EV Charger (J1772 version) stands out as the best overall home charging solution for electric vehicles utilizing the J1772 connector. This fast-charging station combines power, user-friendliness, and robust construction in a compact design. Its 24-foot cable offers ample reach, and its weatherized build ensures reliable performance in various conditions, making it a top pick for any EV owner.
Key Features:
- Universal J1772 Compatibility: Works with most non-Tesla EVs.
- Fast Charging: Level 2 charging significantly reduces charging time compared to Level 1.
- Compact and Durable: Space-saving design with excellent weather resistance.
- Long 24-foot Cord: Provides flexibility in charger placement relative to your vehicle’s charging port.
Why it’s the best: The Emporia Level 2 charger delivers on all fronts. It’s powerful, reliable, and easy to install, offering excellent value and performance for daily EV charging needs.
Buying Options:
- $399 from Amazon
- $625 from Best Buy
Emporia Level 2 EV Charger (NACS Version) – Top Choice for NACS EVs including Tesla
For Tesla owners and those with EVs adopting the NACS (North American Charging Standard) connector, the Emporia Level 2 EV Charger (NACS version) is the optimal home charging station. Mirroring the J1772 version’s strengths, this charger provides fast, dependable Level 2 charging in a space-efficient and weather-resistant package. The 24-foot cord and ease of use make it a superior choice for NACS-compatible electric vehicles.
Key Features:
- NACS Compatibility: Perfect for Tesla and other EVs using the NACS connector.
- Rapid Level 2 Charging: Enjoy significantly faster home charging speeds.
- Streamlined and Robust: Designed to be both compact and withstand harsh weather.
- Extended 24-foot Cable: Offers convenient reach for various parking configurations.
Why it’s the best for NACS: The Emporia NACS charger provides Tesla and NACS EV owners with a high-performance, reliable, and user-friendly home charging experience, matching the quality and convenience expected from leading EV brands.
Buying Options:
- $399 from Amazon
- $399 from Best Buy
Best Budget-Friendly Level 2 Charger
United Chargers Grizzl-E Classic 40A – High-Quality Charging at a Lower Price
The United Chargers Grizzl-E Classic 40A stands out as the best budget-friendly Level 2 charger, offering excellent performance and durability without breaking the bank. This robust charger delivers up to 40A charging, features a long 25-foot cord, and is built to withstand harsh weather conditions. For EV owners seeking a reliable Level 2 charging station at a more accessible price point, the Grizzl-E Classic is an outstanding choice.
Key Features:
- 40A Fast Charging: Provides rapid Level 2 charging for most EVs.
- Durable and Weatherproof: Built to endure tough environmental conditions.
- Long 25-foot Cable: Offers extra reach for convenient vehicle parking.
- Cost-Effective: Delivers premium features at a more affordable price.
Why it’s the best budget pick: The Grizzl-E Classic proves that you don’t have to compromise on quality or performance to get an affordable Level 2 charger. It provides fast charging and robust construction at a price that’s hard to beat.
Buying Options:
- $399 from Amazon
Best Level 2 Charger for Charging Two EVs
United Chargers Grizzl-E Duo – Simultaneous Charging for Two Electric Vehicles
For households with multiple electric vehicles, the United Chargers Grizzl-E Duo is the best Level 2 charging station designed to charge two EVs simultaneously. Equipped with two 24-foot cords and capable of splitting 40A of power, the Grizzl-E Duo offers a convenient solution for keeping two electric vehicles charged and ready to go.
Key Features:
- Dual EV Charging: Charge two electric vehicles at the same time.
- 40A Power Split: Dynamically distributes up to 40A between two vehicles (20A max per vehicle when both are charging).
- Two 24-foot Cables: Provides ample reach for charging two parked vehicles.
- Weatherproof and Durable: Built to withstand outdoor conditions.
Why it’s best for dual EVs: The Grizzl-E Duo eliminates the need for two separate chargers, providing a space-saving and cost-effective way to manage charging for multiple electric vehicles in one household.
Buying Options:
- $900 from Amazon
Best Portable Level 2 Charger
Lectron Portable Level 2 Charger (J1772 Version) – Conveniently Carry Level 2 Charging with You
The Lectron Portable Level 2 Charger (J1772 version) is the best portable option for EV owners who need Level 2 charging on the go. Compact enough to store in your trunk, this charger offers a significant power boost over standard Level 1 chargers while maintaining portability. It’s a perfect solution for travelers or those who need flexible charging options.
Key Features:
- Portable Design: Easy to transport and store in your vehicle.
- J1772 Compatibility: Works with most non-Tesla EVs.
- 40A Charging: Provides fast Level 2 charging speeds wherever you go.
- 16-foot Cord: Offers practical length for portable use.
Why it’s the best portable pick: The Lectron Portable Charger combines the convenience of portability with the speed of Level 2 charging, making it an essential accessory for EV owners who need charging flexibility.
Buying Options:
- $217 from Amazon
- $300 from Best Buy
- $280 from The Home Depot
Lectron Portable Level 2 Charger (NACS Version) – Portable NACS Charging for Tesla and More
For Tesla and NACS EV owners needing a portable charging solution, the Lectron Portable Level 2 Charger (NACS version) is the ideal choice. Offering the same portability and Level 2 charging speeds as the J1772 version, this charger ensures that NACS-compatible EVs can enjoy fast charging wherever a compatible outlet is available.
Key Features:
- NACS Compatibility: Designed for Tesla and other NACS EVs.
- Portable and Lightweight: Easy to take with you for charging on the go.
- 40A Level 2 Charging: Provides significantly faster charging than Level 1 options.
- 16-foot Cord: Practical length for various portable charging scenarios.
Why it’s the best portable NACS pick: The Lectron Portable NACS Charger offers Tesla and NACS EV owners the freedom to charge at Level 2 speeds in a convenient, portable package, perfect for travel and flexible charging needs.
Buying Options:
- $270 from Amazon
- $290 from Best Buy
- $312 from The Home Depot
Key Considerations When Choosing a Level 2 Charger
When selecting the best level 2 charging station for your needs, several factors come into play. Understanding these considerations will help you make an informed decision and ensure you choose a charger that meets your specific requirements.
- Connector Type (J1772 vs. NACS): Ensure the charger is compatible with your EV’s charging port. J1772 is standard for most non-Tesla EVs, while NACS is used by Tesla and increasingly adopted by other manufacturers.
- Charging Speed and Amperage: Level 2 chargers offer varying amperage ratings, typically from 32A to 48A. Higher amperage means faster charging. Consider your vehicle’s maximum charging rate and your daily driving needs.
- Installation Type (Plug-in vs. Hardwired): Plug-in chargers are easier to install and move, utilizing standard 240V outlets. Hardwired chargers offer a permanent installation and can sometimes support higher amperage.
- Cord Length: A longer cord provides more flexibility in parking and charger placement. Consider your garage or parking space layout when choosing cord length.
- Weatherproofing and Durability: If the charger will be installed outdoors, ensure it has a robust weatherproofing rating (like IP65 or IP67) to protect against dust and water.
- Smart Features and Connectivity: Some Level 2 chargers offer smart features like Wi-Fi connectivity, app control, scheduling, and energy monitoring. These can add convenience and optimize your charging experience.
- Safety Certifications and Warranty: Look for chargers with UL listing or similar safety certifications. A good warranty provides peace of mind and protection for your investment.
By considering these factors, you can confidently choose the best level 2 charging station to meet your EV charging needs at home or on the go. Upgrading to Level 2 charging is a significant step in enhancing your EV ownership experience, providing faster, more convenient, and reliable charging.
