What Is the Best Home EV Charger? A Comprehensive Guide

Choosing the best home EV charger for EVs can feel overwhelming. You might be starting from scratch and simply trying to understand what an EV charger is, or perhaps you have already committed to installing a level 2 home charger, but you are unsure about what specs matter most, how much chargers cost, and what features are most important for providing the best charging experience. In this guide, we’ll walk through the key points and look at the top chargers on the market.

Why Consider Installing a Level 2 Charger In Your Home?

Before deciding on the best home ev charger, it is important to consider the key benefits of installing a level 2 charger in your home. There are countless reasons to install a level 2 charger at home; however, one of the main benefits is that level 2 chargers offer unparalleled convenience when it comes to getting the best from your EV especially when compared to level 1 charging.

Level 2 chargers offer:

Faster Charging: Level 2 chargers use a 240-volt outlet that can power up an EV much quicker than a standard 120-volt plug. Level 1 chargers offer charging speeds of 2-5 miles per hour; whereas, level 2 chargers can provide charging speeds of roughly 20 to 40 miles of range per hour depending on various factors.
Convenience: If you drive regularly, there is no better way to charge your vehicle than at home with a level 2 EV charger. You can simply plug in at home and fully recharge while you sleep or during downtime. This also reduces your dependency on public charging stations.
Compatibility: There are more level 2 chargers than ever before, most of which are compatible with almost any vehicle with the right adaptor if necessary.

Choosing the Best Home EV Charger - Important Tech Specs

Below are a few of the most critical technical specifications to consider when considering the best home EV charger:

Amperage (Amp Rating)

Common Range: 16 to 50 amps.
Why It Matters: The higher the amp rating, the faster the charger can recharge your car’s battery—assuming your EV can handle that amount of power flow.
Example: A 40-amp charger can provide around 9.6 kW of power, which is plenty for most passenger EVs.

Voltage

Standard Level 2 Voltage: 240 volts in North America.
Outcome: A big jump in charge speed compared to 120 volts.
Takeaway: Make sure your home electrical setup supports a 240-volt outlet or that you upgrade your electrical panel accordingly. A professional installation service like ChargerPro can help you make this determination. It is important to also consider hardwiring your level 2 charger vs. using a NEMA 14-50 plug. ChargerPro always recommends hardwiring for the best results.

Connector Type

J1772: Works with most non-Tesla cars like Nissan, Chevy, Ford, Kia, Hyundai, and many other brands.
Tesla Plug: Built specifically for Tesla cars (though Tesla owners can also use an adapter to hook into J1772 chargers).

Read more on understanding NACS vs. J1772 EV charging standards.

Cable Length

Typical Lengths: 18 to 25 feet.
Tip: Think about how you park or if you have multiple EVs to charge. If you want flexibility, a 25-foot cable (or longer) can be a lifesaver.

Weather Rating

Look For: NEMA 4 or similar protection if you plan to install outdoors.
Reason: This ensures the unit won’t malfunction during inclement weather.

Smart Features

Wi-Fi Connectivity: Allows scheduling, energy tracking, and remote control through an app.
Load Sharing: Useful if you have two EVs or want to manage your home’s overall power usage.
Why It’s Optional: Some people prefer a simpler “plug-and-charge” approach without extra tech or fees. However, there are level 2 chargers like the Emporia and Tesla Universal that do offer smart features without any additional fees.

Warranty

Typical Coverage: 1 to 3 years, though some brands offer longer.
Reason: A well-backed warranty means the manufacturer stands behind its product.

Best Home EV Charger - Popular Charger Picks

Below, we’ve rounded up a few of the best home EV chargers.

Emporia Level 2 Charger

Amperage: Up to 48 amps (adjustable).
Compatibility: Both J1772 and NACS connector types available.
Installation: Hardwired or plug-in. Can also avoid panel upgrade with PowerSmart option that enables maximum charging without electrical service changes.
Smart Features: Wi-Fi monitoring via the Emporia app for scheduling, monitoring, and cost savings.
Price: $400
Good For: All EVs including Tesla.

Here’s an in-depth overview of the Emporia Level 2 Charger.

Tesla Universal Wall Connector

Amperage: Up to 48 amps.
Compatibility: NACS with integrated J1772 adapter to charge any electric vehicle.
Installation: Hardwired or plug-in.
Smart Features: Tesla app for monitoring charging usage and scheduling.
Price: $550
Good For: Tesla and any other EV.

ChargePoint Home Flex

Amperage: Up to 50 amps (user-adjustable).
Compatibility: Both J1772 and NACS connector types available.
Installation: Can be either hardwired or plug-in
Smart Features: ChargePoint App - leverages Wi-Fi for scheduling, cost analysis, and charging reminders.
Price: $550 - $600 depending on hardwired or plug-in
Good For: Owners of any EV including Ford Mustang Mach-E, Chevy Bolt, Nissan Leaf, and Tesla owners with the appropriate adaptor.

Enphase IQ EV Charger

Amperage: Up to 64 amps available
Compatibility: J1772 and NACS connector options available for universal compatibility.
Installation: Can be either hardwired or plug-in
Smart Features: EnPhase Cloud Compatible and Smart connected through Bluetooth/Wi-Fi enabled
Price: $600 - $1,200 depending on model selected
Good For: Drivers who want a basic, hassle-free charger and own brands like Honda, BMW, or others.

Grizzl-E Classic

Amperage: Adjustable (16/24/32/40 amps)
Compatibility: J1772 and NACS connector options available for universal compatibility.
Installation: NEMA 14-50 or 6-50 plug
Smart Features: None
Price: $380
Good For: Drivers who want a basic, hassle-free charger.

Installation Essentials for Level 2 EV Chargers

Once you have chosen the best home EV charger for your specific needs and vehicle, there are a few key considerations when it comes to installation. Installation from a licensed electrician is highly recommended and can help navigate critical components of the installation including:

Electrical Panel Check: Depending on your existing home setup, you might need to install a 240-volt circuit if you don’t already have one. It is important to ensure your electrical panel can handle this additional load. If you need a dedicated breaker or your panel is already at capacity, a professional installation service like ChargerPro and licensed electricians can appropriately advise on upgrades.
Permits and Local Codes: Some cities require a permit for installing a Level 2 charger. Many professional installation services will handle this process for you while ensuring your level 2 charger has been installed to code, ensuring a simple and hassle-free installation experience.

Choosing the Best Home EV Charger - Key Questions

When picking the best level 2 charger for EVs, consider these questions in mind:

What is my EV’s maximum charge rate? No need to spend extra on a 50-amp unit if your car maxes out at 32 amps.
Do I want smart features? If you crave real-time data and scheduling, pick a Wi-Fi–enabled charger. If not, save money with a simpler model.
Indoor or outdoor setup? Make sure the charger’s enclosure rating matches the climate.
Am I fine with a plug-in or do I want it hardwired? Plug-in chargers move easily if you relocate. A hardwired unit stays put. The advantage of a hardwired unit however is safety, speed, and convenience.

Before determining what the best home EV charger might be for you, take a moment to assess your home’s electrical capacity, think about your charging habits, and decide how much tech you actually want. That approach makes it easier to zero in on the best level 2 EV charger for you.

Contact ChargerPro, and our team will be happy to help you choose the right charger for your home setup.