Level 1 and Level 2 EV charging

What is the difference between Level 1 and Level 2 EV Chargers?

At EV-Chargers™, we make the complex simple with our EV Selector tool which automatically provides the best option based on your car to take the hassle out of buying your EV charger. The table below summarizes the differences, so you can be more informed and understand the best option for you.

 

Level 1 Level   2
Charging Speed Slow Medium or Fast
Charge Range/Hour 3-5 miles 10-20 miles
Power Low <20 amp Medium         <24 amp

Medium-Fast  32 amp

Fast                40 amp

Plug Types Regular 3 pin plug Specialist 3 pin and 4 pin plugs
Plug Typical Use TVs, Phones, Laptops Dryers, Stoves, Ranges, A/C 
Plug Names NEMA 5-15, NEMA 5-20 NEMA 6-30, NEMA 14-30, NEMA 6-50, NEMA 14-50

(all residential plug types)

Prices $200-$350 $350-$550
Best Suited For Charger in your trunk

Plug in Hybrids – pre 2018 (smaller batteries)

Charger in your garage

Plug in Hybrids – 2018 onward

Full Electrics (bigger batteries)

Connectors Used J1772, Tesla J1772, Tesla
Locations Home Home

Workplace (less frequent)

 

Level 1 EV chargers are a must have as a back-up in your trunk.  You can plug them in at lots of places (home, friends houses, AirBnB’s etc.).

Level 2 EV chargers generally have different plugs so are more suited for homes where you know your plug type.  Some homes will already have these plugs and you can use existing plugs or have an electrician fit a plug to give you the power of a level 2 charger.  Main benefits of a level 2 EV charger.

  1. Speed.  A significantly faster charge
  2. Minimize range anxiety by getting a full charge before leaving the house
  3. Reduce costs by getting a full charge overnight when power is cheaper
  4. Futureproofing.  A 40amp level 2 EV charger will charge your next car faster
  5. Installation free compared to a wall charger. Plug and play.

 

At EV-Chargers™ we stock a large selection of  level 2 EV chargers, offer the widest range of domestic plug options and power levels to fit your battery.   We provide level 2 EV charging solutions that power your battery at its maximum hourly charge rate (ExactEV™) and a futureproofing option that fits your current battery’s maximum hourly charge rate and your next upgrade (TotalEV™).  If you are not on a tight budget and have an existing 4 pin plug, we would recommend TotalEV™.  Go to our EV Charger Selector Tool and pick from the drop down menu to find the right EV charger for you https://evchargersusa.com/ev-charger-selector-tool/