The best home EV chargers of 2024: Expert tested

2 weeks ago 6

Owning an electric vehicle (EV) offers numerous benefits, and charging it at home significantly enhances convenience and savings. A personal EV charger allows you to recharge at your own pace, avoid crowded public stations, and take advantage of lower electricity rates during off-peak hours. While most EVs come with a basic Level 1 charger that plugs into a standard 120V household outlet and adds around 3-5 miles of range per hour, this method, commonly called "trickle charging," isn't the most practical long-term solution for regular use.

For faster, more efficient charging, a Level 2 charger -- which operates on a 240V circuit -- can boost your charging speed, adding between 30-60 miles of range per hour, depending on your EV's capabilities and the charger's output. Installing a Level 2 charger may require the help of an electrician to set up the appropriate 240V circuit. Still, it is a worthwhile investment for EV owners who want to optimize their charging experience.

We tested every home EV charger on this list to evaluate durability, power output, ease of installation, app features, and connectivity options. Our pick for the best home EV charger overall is the EVIQO Home Charger, which balances performance, durability, and affordability. Its 48-amp output, weatherproof design, and reliable app make it suitable for most users.

It's important to note that while most chargers feature the universal J1772 connector, compatible with all current EVs (including Tesla models with an adapter), some newer cars -- such as models from Hyundai, Genesis, and KIA -- now come equipped with the NACS connector. If your vehicle uses NACS, be sure to consult the charger manufacturer prior to purchase about available cabling kit upgrades or adapter options to ensure compatibility with your EV. All chargers we recommend are designed for homes with a 240V circuit and are fully compatible with the US market. Read on for the rest of our picks.

When deciding which home EV charger will be best for you, consider the following:

Level 1 vs. Level 2 charging, and your home electrical system

There are two types of chargers that you can buy: Level 1 and Level 2. Level 1 chargers operate on a power supply of 120 volts, while Level 2 chargers operate at 240 volts. You can use a Level 2 charger for faster charging, but that will require a special outlet that you will need to install in your home. (All of the chargers on this list are Level 2.)

When installing a home EV charger, evaluating your home's electrical system is crucial, as it plays a key role in determining what type of charger and installation your home can support. Many of the chargers listed in this article offer selective amperage settings, meaning that even though they are advertised as providing up to 48A or 50A output, they can often be adjusted to lower outputs, such as 40A or 32A, to better align with your electrical system's capacity.

For Level 2 chargers, there are specific breaker requirements based on the amperage:

38A-40A chargers require a 50A breaker. The National Electrical Code (NEC) mandates that the breaker must support 125% of the charger's maximum load to provide a safety margin for continuous operation.
48A-50A chargers typically require a 60A breaker, but in some instances, a 70A breaker may be needed to ensure proper safety overhead.

Since many chargers offer selectable amperage settings, they can be configured to work with different electrical setups. For example, a charger capable of 48A output can run at 40A or 32A if your home's electrical panel can't support the higher amperage. However, chargers offering higher output (48A-50A) generally require hardwiring rather than using a NEMA socket to comply with safety and electrical standards.

It's critical to consult a licensed electrician to assess whether your electrical panel can accommodate your selected charger. If your panel lacks the necessary capacity, upgrading your electrical system may be required before installation. This could involve installing new wiring, dedicated breaker boxes, or weatherproof components for outdoor setups. Evaluating these factors will ensure safe and efficient operation of your home EV charger.

Additional costs & utility programs

While many local power companies offer EV charger programs that include a charger and basic installation services, these programs may not cover more complex or costly installations. In older homes or homes requiring significant upgrades, installation costs can quickly exceed the charger's price. For example, suppose your home has an outdated electrical panel or lacks the necessary infrastructure. In that case, you might need additional wiring (such as NEMA 6-50), a weatherproof box, and a dedicated dual breaker box. Additionally, any work done outside may require an inspection to ensure compliance with updated local safety laws, such as proper grounding.

Utility-backed programs often cover only basic installations, leaving homeowners responsible for any significant electrical upgrades. Before committing to any program or installation, getting a detailed quote for the entire scope of the work is advisable, especially for older homes or more complex setups.

By comparing the full costs of utility-backed programs with the option of purchasing and installing a charger independently, you can make a more informed decision and ensure you're prepared for all potential costs, not just those covered by the program.