, I have a Tesla and I rock the roads with the coolest car in town. And the best part isn’t just the car but the fact that it never runs out of battery. Why? Because I know how to get my hands on the most suitable chargers for my queen Tessie. Let me show you how to find the best EV chargers in 2024.
DIFFERENT TYPE OF CHARGERS
There are two main types of EV chargers, and each one is suited for different charging needs and scenarios.
- Level 1 Charging
- Level 2 Charging
Both of these are the most common charging methods for EVs. They differ in speed, power source and convenience.
Let’s get to know more about these chargers.
Level 1 Chargers
To begin with, we have the Level 1 Charging which is also known as “Slow Charging”.
It is the most basic and widely available charging option.
KEY FEATURES:
- The Level 1 chargers plug into standard household outlets (120 volts). This outlet is similar to the one we use for home appliances like toasters or lamps.
- It is the slowest EV charging option you can get and adds only 3-5 miles of range per hour of charging.
Moreover, a full charge will take a lot time approximately 11 to 20 hours, however, this is suitable for overnight charging.
- The Level 1 charging is convenient as you do not need any special equipment. All you need is a standard outlet and your car’s charging cable.
- You do not have to pay any additional cost for the charger. Although you will have to pay your electricity provider for the energy being used.
Level 2 Chargers
Then comes the Level 2 Charging – also called “Fast Charging”. It is a step up from Level 1 Charging and is surely faster than that.
KEY FEATURES:
- Level 2 chargers use a 240 volt outlet which is similar to an outlet used for a dryer or an oven. Some of the Level 2 chargers can be hardwired into your home’s electrical system and some come with a plug for a special outlet.
And even in some cases, you might need an electrician to install a new outlet to use a Level 2 charger.
- The speed of the Level 2 charger is comparatively faster than a Level 1 charger. It offers 12-80 miles of range per hour and can fully charge your EVs in 3-8 hours.
- Despite being a convenient charging option, it still requires a special outlet which may not be already available in all homes hence requiring professional installation.
- The cost is higher compared to the Level 1 charger. Since it increases power, and even needs professional installation, therefore, it can cost several hundred dollars.
Summarizing the differences between Level 1 and Level 2 chargers:
| FEATURE | LEVEL 1 CHARGING | LEVEL 2 CHARGING |
| Power Source | Standard 120 volt outlet | 240 volt outlet |
| Speed | 3-5 miles of range per hour | 12-80 miles of range per hour |
| Charging Time | 11-20 hours | 3-8 hours |
| Convenience | Very convenient, requires no special equipment | Requires professional installation |
| Cost | Low | Higher |
CHOOSING BETWEEN LEVEL 1 AND LEVEL 2?
The decision depends on your driving habits and charging needs. If you mostly charge overnight then Level 1 may be suitable, but, if you need faster charging and drive long distances then Level 2 is a better option.
BEST EV CHARGERS 2024
It is very crucial to consider factors like your car’s charging capabilities, how far and how often you drive, and whether you have access to overnight charging at home while you are choosing an EV charger.
Here is a list of some of the Best EV Chargers in 2024:
Tesla Wall Connector
The Tesla Wall Connector is like a personal gas station for your Tesla car at home. Although it can also be used with some non-Tesla EVs with the appropriate adapter.
It provides you with a convenient and efficient way to charge your car at home.
The Tesla Wall Connector works with all Tesla models including Model S, 3, X, or Y. It is capable of adding up to 44 miles of range to your battery every hour, depending on your specific Tesla model and your home’s electrical setup.
You can install this charger anywhere whether it is inside your garage or outside your home. Using the Tesla app, you get to see how your charging is going, control who can use it and even schedule your next charge.
Additionally, if you own more than one Tesla car then you can even link up to six Wall Connectors together to share power efficiently.
- Dimension: The Wall Connector is compact. It measures:
- 13.6 inches / 34.5 cm in height
- 6.1 inches / 15.5 cm in width
- 4.3 inches / 11 cm in depth
- Voltage: The Tesla Wall Connector operates on a 240 volt AC (alternating current) power supply and allows for faster charging compared to a standard 120 volt outlet.
- Car Types: It is primarily designed for and is fully compatible with all Tesla models and can even be used with some non-Tesla EVs with the appropriate adapter. However, the charging speeds may vary for non-Tesla vehicles.
- Price: The Tesla Wall Connector costs around $550 to $750 excluding its installation cost.
- Warranty: 3 years
ChargePoint Home Flex Level 2
The ChargePoint Home Flex Level 2 is an adaptable and powerful option for home EV charging. It offers several features to cater to various needs.
The Home Flex charges your EV up to 9 times faster as compared to other standard wall outlets. It is compatible with any electric vehicle EV that uses the J1772 connector which is also the standard charging port for most EVs in the market.
The ChargePoint app allows you to manage your activities and monitor charging sessions. Additional features of their app include: setting your charging schedule, tracking the charging process, voice control, etc.
It has two installation options:
- Plug-in: similar to a dryer outlet and is user-friendly
- Hard wired: requires professional help
- Dimensions: The dimensions vary depending upon the type of model it is, however, both of them fall within the following range:
- Height: 12.2 inches / 31 cm
- Width: 7.7 inches / 19.5 cm
- Depth: 8.7 inches / 22 cm
- Voltage: The Home Flex operates on a 240-volt AC power supply which allows faster charging as compared to a standard 120-volt outlet.
- Car Types: As mentioned earlier, it is compatible with any EV that uses the J1772 connector. This includes a large range of car models including:
- Chevrolet Bolt EV
- Volvo Recharge
- Polestar
- Hyundai Kona and Ioniq
- KIA Niro
- Nissan LEAF
- Tesla
- Toyota Prius Prime
- BMW i3 and many more
- Price: The price of the ChargePoint Home Flex depends on the configuration, that is:
- Plug-in Version: starting around $500-$600
- Hardwired Version: it has an additional cost due to professional installation
JuiceBox 40 Smart EV Charger
The JuiceBox EV charger is also one the most popular choices for home charging stations as it offers a good balance of features.
It has up to 7x faster charging which means approximately 7 miles of range per hour. The JuiceBox Smart charger is also compatible with all other EVs on the market.
Similar to others, it also has smart features to offer such as voice control, setting schedules, etc.
- Dimensions:
- The charger measures 11.8 inches / 30 cm in height
- 7.9 inches / 20 cm in width
- 8.3 inches / 21 cm in depth
- Voltage: The JuiceBox smart charger requires a 240-volt AC power supply and offers faster charging capabilities compared to a standard 120-volt charger.
- Car Types: It is also universally compatible with all other EVs which use the J1772 connector.
- Price: It typically ranges from $400 to $500 excluding the installation cost.
Grizzl-E Level 2 240V / 40A Electric Vehicle
The affordability and functionality of the Grizzl-E Level 2 EV charger make it a popular option for home charging.
It adds approximately 28-30 miles of range per hour and even allows you to adjust the charging speed. It does not require professional installation making it an even better option.
The Grizzl-E Level 2 is universally compatible and is also durable, meaning that it can withstand all harsh weather conditions as well.
- Dimensions: The estimated dimensions are:
- Height: 14 inches / 36 cm
- Width: 9 inches / 23 cm
- Depth: 5 inches / 13 cm
- Voltage: The Grizzl-E requires a 240-volt AC power supply.
- Car Types: It is universally compatible with all-electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) which are sold in North America that use the J1772 connector.
- Price: The price of the Grizzl-E ranges from $400 to $500.
Electrify America Charger
Electrify America is a network of fast charging stations across the United States. They even offer a home charging option which is called the HomeStation.
The Electrify America EV charger charges up your EV faster than a regular outlet. It allows you to choose between different charging speeds.
The plus point is the Electrify America mobile app. The smart features allow you to perform a lot of functions just through the app including locating charging stations all across the United States, while also providing 24/7 customer support.
The installation of the charger is quite easy making the Electrify America EV charger a really good option.
- Dimensions:
- Height: 12-14 inches / 30-35 cm
- Width: 8-10 inches / 20-25 cm
- Depth: 6-8 inches / 15-20 cm
- Voltage: The Electrify America EV charger requires a 240 volt AC power supply which is necessary for its Level 2 charging capabilities.
- Car Types: Here is a list of some of the EVs it is compatible with
- Volkswagen ID.4
- Ford Mustang Mach-E
- Chevrolet Bolt EV
- Audi e-tron
- KIA Soul EV
- Tesla Models
- BMW i3
- Volkswagen e-Golf
- Jaguar I-PACE and more
- Price: The cost of the Electrify America EV charger starts from around $450.
INSTALLATION METHODS
For installing the EV charger at home, you have two main options:
- DIY (Do It Yourself)
- Professional Installation
DIY (Do It Yourself) Installation
Pros:
- It has a lower cost; you can save on the electrician’s labor charges
- Since the installation has to be done by you therefore you can schedule it at your own pace
- You get the satisfaction of completing the project yourself
Cons:
- There is safety risk involved. As improper installation can lead to electrical hazards, fires or even cause damage to your charger or car.
- Another con is that if it is not installed by a professional, the warranty may become null and void.
- You will require proper understanding of electrical wiring.
- You may even require permission by the concerned authorities depending on your location.
Professional Installation
Pros:
- There is safety assurance as the person installing it would be a qualified electrician.
- It will maintain your charger’s warranty.
- Since electricians have proper knowledge, experience and tools, they can handle complex wirings and any challenges that may arise.
- They can handle any necessary permits process and ensure that the installation is done correctly.
Cons:
- You will have to pay the electrician which adds to the total cost
- Since the installation depends on the electrician, his availability may be a problem
HOW TO DECIDE?
Here is a quick guide to help you decide which option is better for you:
| DIY Installation | Professional Installation |
| You are experienced and comfortable with electrical work | You have doubts about your electrical expertise |
| You have proper knowledge and the required tools | The charger requires complex wiring |
| You are have the permit for DIY EV charger installation | Your local regulations instruct professional installation |
If you have just bought your first EV, Congratulations!
Electrify America has got you covered with more than 800 charging stations all across the states. Just visit their website or App and locate a charger that fits your needs.
Also if you’re new to EV club, and have no idea about installing EV charging stations at your lovely home, you can find a complete guide on How to install an EV charger at home.
However, it is always advised to prioritize your safety and not get yourself into trouble. The better way would be to consult a qualified electrician for this purpose to ensure a smooth, safe, and secure EV charging experience at home!
