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.
- Speed. A significantly faster charge
- Minimize range anxiety by getting a full charge before leaving the house
- Reduce costs by getting a full charge overnight when power is cheaper
- Futureproofing. A 40amp level 2 EV charger will charge your next car faster
- 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/
