Best Level 2 EV Chargers for Efficient Home Charging

Switching to an electric vehicle is exciting, but then you’re faced with the reality of charging it. I’ve been there, researching and testing different Level 2 EV chargers to find the best options for home use. This guide shares my hands-on experience, comparing five top contenders to help you choose the perfect charger for your needs and budget. We’ll cover features, installation, performance, and user feedback, so you can confidently power up your EV.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	ChargePoint HomeFlex Level 2 EV Charger J1772, Hardwired…	View on Amazon
	EMPORIA Level 2 EV Charger w/ J1772 Charger, 48 amp,…	View on Amazon
	EVIQO Level 2 EV Charger NACS for Tesla – Hardwired,…	View on Amazon
	ChargePoint HomeFlex Level 2 EV Charger, Hardwired NACS…	View on Amazon
	EVIQO Level 2 EV Charger 40 Amp – Wall Home…	View on Amazon

ChargePoint HomeFlex Level 2 EV Charger J1772, Hardwired

The ChargePoint HomeFlex is a popular choice, known for its reliability and integration with the ChargePoint network. It’s a solid performer, offering consistent charging speeds and a user-friendly app. Having access to the broader ChargePoint network is a big plus if you plan on charging away from home.

• Key Features:
• J1772 connector (adapter needed for Tesla)
• Up to 37 miles/hour charging speed
• Integration with ChargePoint network and app
• UL-certified for safety

• Hardwired installation

• Pros:

• Reliable performance
• Wide network access

• User-friendly app

• Cons:

• Requires professional installation (hardwired)

• Tesla adapter needed

• Best for: Drivers who value network access and reliability, and are comfortable with a hardwired installation.

• User Feedback Summary: Mostly positive reviews praising its reliability and app functionality; some complaints about installation complexity.

EMPORIA Level 2 EV Charger w/ J1772 Charger, 48 amp

The Emporia charger offers a compelling blend of speed and smart features. The ability to monitor energy usage and schedule charging sessions is a big draw for budget-conscious EV owners. Its 48-amp capacity ensures fast charging, but remember, this requires a 60A dedicated circuit.

• Key Features:
• J1772 connector
• Up to 46 miles/hour charging speed (48 amp)
• Smart features via Wi-Fi and mobile app

• UL listed and ENERGY STAR certified

• Pros:

• Fast charging speeds
• Smart features for energy management

• Relatively easy installation (hardwired)

• Cons:

• Requires professional installation (hardwired)

• Some users report app glitches

• Best for: Tech-savvy drivers who want fast charging and smart energy management.

• User Feedback Summary: Generally positive, with some minor issues reported with app stability.

EVIQO Level 2 EV Charger NACS for Tesla – Hardwired

Designed specifically for Tesla vehicles with the NACS connector, the EVIQO charger provides a fast and convenient charging solution. The hardwired installation ensures reliable performance, and the app control allows for customized charging schedules. However, it lacks the wider network compatibility of ChargePoint.

• Key Features:
• NACS connector (Tesla)
• Up to 46 mph charging speed (48A)
• Smart Wi-Fi and app control

• UL, ETL, FCC & Energy Star certified

• Pros:

• Fast charging for Tesla vehicles
• App control for scheduling and monitoring

• Durable construction

• Cons:

• Only compatible with Tesla and SAE J3400 EVs (adapter needed for J1772)

• Hardwired installation needed

• Best for: Tesla owners who prioritize speed and app control.

• User Feedback Summary: Mostly positive reviews from Tesla owners; some concerns about the lack of J1772 compatibility.

ChargePoint HomeFlex Level 2 EV Charger, Hardwired NACS

This is ChargePoint’s offering with the NACS connector, directly targeting Tesla owners. It inherits the reliability and network integration strengths of the J1772 version.

• Key Features:
• NACS connector (Tesla)
• Up to 37 miles/hour charging speed
• Integration with ChargePoint network and app
• UL-certified for safety

• Hardwired installation

• Pros:

• Reliable performance
• Wide network access
• User-friendly app

• Native NACS connector

• Cons:

• Requires professional installation (hardwired)

• Might be slightly less powerful than some competitors

• Best for: Tesla owners who prioritize network access and reliability.

• User Feedback Summary: Positive, reflecting the quality of the ChargePoint brand.

EVIQO Level 2 EV Charger 40 Amp – Wall Home

The EVIQO 40-amp charger offers a flexible solution. You can plug it into a NEMA 14-50 outlet for convenient installation without an electrician or hardwire it for even faster charging. Its long cable adds to its versatility.

• Key Features:
• J1772 connector
• 40A charging (9.6 kW) via NEMA 14-50 or 48A (11.5 kW) hardwired
• Smart Wi-Fi & app control
• UL, ETL, FCC & Energy Star certified

• Long cable (25′)

• Pros:

• Flexible installation options (plug-in or hardwired)
• Long cable for convenient placement

• Smart features

• Cons:

• Lower charging speed than 48A hardwired options

• Adapter needed for Tesla (NACS) vehicles

• Best for: Drivers seeking a balance between convenience and charging speed, without the need for immediate electrician involvement.

• User Feedback Summary: Positive, with users appreciating its flexibility.

Comparison Insights:

While all chargers offer Level 2 charging, their speed, features, and installation requirements differ significantly. The 48-amp hardwired options generally provide the fastest charging, but require professional electrical work. Plug-in options like the EVIQO 40-amp offer convenience but at a slightly reduced charging speed. The choice depends on your budget, technical skills, and charging preferences.

Final Verdict:

The “best” Level 2 EV charger depends on your individual needs. If network access and reliability are paramount, ChargePoint is a strong contender. For speed and smart features, Emporia stands out. Tesla owners should consider the EVIQO NACS or the ChargePoint HomeFlex NACS charger. For flexibility in installation, the EVIQO 40-amp option is a great choice. Carefully consider the pros and cons of each charger and its compatibility with your EV before making a purchase.

FAQ:

Q: What is a Level 2 EV charger?
A: A Level 2 EV charger provides significantly faster charging than a standard Level 1 (120V) outlet. They typically use a 240V circuit and can add many miles of range per hour.

Q: Do I need a professional electrician to install a Level 2 EV charger?
A: Most hardwired Level 2 chargers require professional installation for safety reasons. Some plug-in models can be installed by homeowners with basic electrical knowledge, but always check the manufacturer’s instructions.

Q: How long does it take to charge my EV with a Level 2 charger?
A: Charging time varies based on the charger’s amperage and your EV’s battery capacity. Generally, it takes several hours to fully charge, significantly less than with Level 1 charging.

Q: What is the difference between J1772 and NACS connectors?
A: J1772 is the standard connector for most non-Tesla EVs in North America. NACS (North American Charging Standard) is the connector used by Tesla and increasingly adopted by other manufacturers. You need the correct connector for your EV.

Q: Are there any government rebates or incentives for installing a Level 2 EV charger?
A: Many states and utility companies offer rebates and incentives for installing home EV chargers. Check with your local government and utility provider for details.

Q: Which Level 2 EV charger is best for my Tesla?
A: For Tesla vehicles, the EVIQO NACS or ChargePoint HomeFlex NACS chargers are ideal due to their native NACS connector. A J1772 charger with an adapter could also work, but the native connector offers a better solution.

Q: How much does a Level 2 EV charger cost?
A: Prices vary depending on features and brand, ranging from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars. Installation costs will add to the overall expense.