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The Best EV Charger 2021

Best EV Charger

If you drive an electric car and want to charge it at home, you will need to install an EV charger. Upgrading from a standard home charging station to a level 2 charger is highly recommended as it will provide faster charging. Some brands even state that the upgrade can be up to 5 times quicker in some cases.

Based from our research, we found that the best EV charger is the ChargePoint Home Charging Station, which is a level 2 charger that’s UL listed and is rated at 16-50 amps of power. However, if you want to save a few bucks the JuiceBox Pro 40 is the best alternative.

From our research, we based our EV charger recommendations upon a number of factors which includes their specification as well as all of their features. As the market continues to get more saturated, we are continuing to review and update this article with the best that the top manufacturers have to offer.

Table of Contents

Level 2 EV Charger Comparison

EV ChargerAmperageCable Length
ChargePoint Home WiFi32A18 or 25 Feet
JuiceBox Pro 40 Smart40A or 75A24 Feet
Amazon Basics32A25 Feet
Bosch EL-5186630A or 40A12, 18 or 25 Feet
ClipperCreek HCS-4032A25 Feet
MUSTART Portable26A, 32A or 40A25 Feet
Zencar Car Charger16A or 32A20 or 28 Feet
Morec Digital Station32A24 Feet
PRIMECON Smart16A30, 35, 40 or 50 Feet
Blink HQ Home30A18 Feet

When it comes to the different types of charging cables, you have the choice of a 120V (level 1) or 240V (level 2) charger. Choosing a level 2 charger is the best option as it provides faster charging, which is far more desirable.

The technology used in electric car charging stations is improving each year. They are becoming more powerful and include extra features that make them easier and more efficient to use at home. If you have the budget available, upgrading to a level 2 EV charger is highly advised as the performance benefits compared to standard chargers makes it an excellent investment.

As electric car technology is evolving, we are constantly researching and updating our recommendations. Below is a list of the best EV chargers that can be installed at your home to provide fast charging of your electric car.

The Best Level 2 Charger


1. ChargePoint CPH25 Home Charging Station

ChargePoint Home Charging Station
The ChargePoint EV Charger is a popular option that’s offered as a hardwired or plug-in charging station. It also features an integrated WiFi connection that allows you to connect to the brand’s smartphone application for real time data feedback. Whilst using the application, you are able to schedule charging times, track all charge activities and other useful data about your car’s charge status.

A great feature about the ChargePoint Charger is that it uses the standard J1772 connector, which means that it’s compatible with all electric vehicles on the road.

Other features of the ChargePoint CPH25 EV Charger include:

  • Option of a 18 or 25 feet charging cord
  • Level 2 charger rated at 32A
  • Adds up to 25 miles of range per hour
  • Can charge most electric cars in just 4 hours
  • 6x faster than a wall outlet alternative
  • 3 years warranty and UL listed
  • Energy Star certified for energy efficiency
  • Compatible with Amazon Alexa

Overall, the ChargePoint CP25 is the best EV charger on the market that makes use of a smartphone application and provides plenty of power for fast charging. Considering all of the features and it’s charging performance, it offers relatively good value for the money too.

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2. JuiceBox Pro 40 Level 2 Charger

JuiceBox Pro 40 Level 2 Charger
The JuiceBox Pro 40 is a high powered electric charging station that automatically adjusts the power it receives, which can be up to 40 amps. You can also have full control over the charger with a smartphone application. It’s the main competitor to the ChargePoint alternative above and both are equally as popular in the USA.

The smartphone application for this EV charger can be downloaded on all platforms and its called “JuiceNet – Smart EV Charging”. From the app, you can control the charging schedules, max charge rate, real time power metrics, amperage, history and much more.

Other feature of the JuiceBox Pro 40 include:

  • WiFi and smartphone application
  • Level 2 charger rated at 40A
  • 240 input volts for extra charging power
  • LED light display for charging status
  • Safety rating of UL and cUL in Canada
  • Built in the USA with a 3 year warranty
  • Compatible with all electric cars (J1772 connector)

The JuiceBox Pro 40 is the best level 2 EV charger for those willing to spend a little bit more for the extra power. It has many similarities to the ChargePoint alternative but the power is the unique selling point of the JuiceBox Pro and it won’t disappoint.

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3. Siemens VC30GRYU Home EV Charger

Siemens VC30GRYU Home EV ChargerSiemens are a highly reputable brand that produce a wide variety of products around the world. The V30GRYU home electric car charger is their award winning model and it also includes the brand’s three year warranty.

In order to control this electric charging station, it has various buttons upon the front panel that provide feedback via the LED indicators.

Other features of the V30GRYU model by Siemens include:

  • Level 2 EV charger rated at 30A
  • 20 foot charging cord
  • Plug and play installation
  • Compatible with all electric cars
  • Pause and delay functionality
  • Standard universal J1772 connector
  • Flexible wiring options

The Siemens VC30GRYU EV charger provides great value for money and includes everything you need in the box. The only drawback is that it doesn’t have a smartphone application. However, the reduced cost compared the ChargePoint or Juice Box alternatives above makes it the best budget option.

2021 Editor note. The Siemens is out of stock. For a budget EV Charger, we’d suggest the Amazon Basics Level 2 charge station as an alternative.

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4. Bosch Level 2 EV Car Charger

Bosch Level 2 EV Car Charger
Bosch are a global brand with a great reputation for high quality items and their home charging station is no different. Although it’s one of the most expensive options within this article, it’s been built to the highest of standards and is backed by a 3 year warranty.

A great feature of this EV charger is the ability for it to automatically monitor the charge. This allows the charger to determine the best time for charging the car in the shortest amount of time in order to reduce energy costs.

Other features of the Bosch Level 2 Charger include:

  • Available as a 30 or 40 amp EV charger
  • Plugin or hardwired
  • Option of a 12, 18 or 25 feet charger cord
  • Backed by a 3 year Bosch warranty
  • cUL and UL listed and meet or exceed NEC 625
  • Multi-function LED indicators
  • Standard J1772 connector fits nearly every EV

The Bosch EL-51254-A is one of the best EV chargers available but the premium price tag may put many people off. However, it’s backed by the reputable Bosch brand with a 3 year warranty and it also has the ability to charge all electric vehicles.

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5. ClipperCreek HCS-40 EV Charging Station

ClipperCreek HCS-40 EV Charging Station
The ClipperCreek HCS-40 is another high powered level 2 EV charger that’s safety verified and designed to work with all electric cars. It provides 32 amps of power and includes an intuitive cable management configuration that makes it easy to use on a daily basis.

According to the brand, it’s able to charge your car up to 5.5 times faster than the standard cord sets that comes with your electric vehicle.

Other features of the ClipperCreek HCS-40 include:

  • Level 2 that is rated to 32 amps
  • 25 feet of charging cable
  • Fully sealed NEMA 4 enclosure
  • Can be hardwired installed or plug-in
  • Three year warranty
  • Made in the USA
  • ETL and cETL certified
  • Includes a wall mount holster and lock

The brand also offer various other models that differ in terms of their power and design but the HCS-40 is the best option. It’s a solid and well engineered EV charger that has been built to last and won’t disappoint.

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6. MUSTART Level 2 Portable EV Charger

MUSTART Level 2 Portable EV Charger
The MUSTART brand produce a wide variety of portable EV chargers that suitable for all budgets. This new and improved model is rated at 40 amps of power and can charge your car five times faster than a standard level 1 alternative. This EVSE in particular is compatible with all electric cars and is built to the highest of standards with the latest technology integrated into it.

Other features of the MUSTART Portable EVSE include:

  • Compact size with a 25 feet long power cable
  • Lightening proof and various safety protection functions
  • LCD screen and LED indicators for instant feedback
  • Includes all the mounting hardware and accessories
  • FCC and TUV certified
  • Universal SAE J1772 connector
  • Includes a two year warranty

MUSTART offer multiple models that range from 26 to 40 amp power ratings and various NEMA models. Although they come at a premium price for a portable EV charger, it’s certainly one of the best options that will reliably provide fast charging for years to come.

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7. Zencar Level 2 EV Charger

Zencar Level 2 EV Charger
For those on a budget and require a high powered level 2 EV charger, the Zencar is the best EVSE option. The brand offer various different models that allow you to choose the power and cord lengths to best suit your requirements. The brand also includes a level 1 adapter with this portable EV charger for 120V outlet usage too.

Other features of the Zencar Level 2 EV charger include:

  • 16A and 32A power options
  • 20 or 25 feet cord length
  • Recommended for indoor use
  • Includes a 1 year warranty
  • Compatible with all electric vehicles
  • Quick read LED indicators

Overall, the Zencar level 2 EV charger is one of the cheapest options that’s actually worth buying. Although it has a waterproof rating of IP55, it’s still recommended to only use it indoors to avoid any internal damage.

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8. Morec Level 2 EV Charging Station

Morec Level 2 EV Charging Station
The Morec EV charging station is a unique option that features a desirable large colored LCD display. The clever display allows you to glance at all the cars data such as the current voltage, temperature and much more.

In terms of the performance, it’s rated to 32 amps of power and is certified to TUV and CE standards with its German design. Morec also state that it provides over three time the charging speed when compared to standard EV charging stations.

Other features of the Morec Level 2 Charger include:

  • PC alloy and aluminum frame
  • Advanced RCD and power balancer
  • IP66 waterproof rated
  • 7.5 meter power cable
  • Compatible with all electric vehicles
  • Includes a 1 year warranty

Overall, the Morec Charging Station is an excellent all-round level 2 charger that has an intuitive LCD display and is suitable for all electric vehicles.

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9. PRIMECON Level 2 EV Charger

PRIMECON Level 2 EV Charger
Another affordable EV charger is by the PRIMECON brand and it’s a level 2 portable charger that’s suitable for the majority of electric cars. The brand state that it provides up to three times faster charging speeds and is also much easier to use than standard alternatives.

It’s the brands new and improved model that uses an intuitive LED control box that’s IP55 rated and is available in multiple cable lengths that range from 30 to 50 feet.

Other features of the PRIMECON Charging Station include:

  • 220V and rated to 16 amps of power
  • Compatible with all J1772 electric vehicles
  • Intuitive control box with LED indicators
  • CE and UL certified
  • Comes with a 1 year warranty
  • Portable carrying case and 110v adapter included

The PRIMECON EV car charger offers excellent value for money and ticks every box as a budget option. However, compared to the Zencar alternative that’s similarly priced, it does lack additional power options and extra accessories.

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10. Blink HQ Home EV Charger

Blink HQ Home EV Charger
The Blink HQ is another affordable level 2 EV wall charger that’s compatible with any electric vehicle. It’s rated at 30 amps of power and the brand claims that it charges up to 4 times faster than standard EV chargers.

Compared to similar priced alternatives, the Blink HQ is more aesthetically pleasing with a sleek front panel and LED indicators for feedback. This is a major requirement for many people that have their charger on display at the front of their home.

Other features of the Blink HQ include:

  • Hard wired installation
  • Delay functionality for choosing charging times
  • 18 foot long power cable
  • High quality construction
  • All mounting hardware included
  • Free credit for the Blink network

Overall, the Blink HQ electric car charger is an excellent option that offers great value for money and is one of the best looking on the market. The stylish design and ease of use make it a popular choice and it won’t disappoint.

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How We Rated The EV Chargers

Considering that there has been a huge increase of EV chargers available on the market, it can be difficult to choose the best. However, our recommendations come from hours of research where we compare various specifications such as the amperage, cable length, safety rating and warranty length.

We also analyzed all of the features that are offered from the EV charger, which can come in the form of smart functionality via WiFi, ease of installation and so much more. As the EV charger market is moving fast, we are regularly going through the latest offerings and updating this article to reflect any new findings.

EV Charger Buying Guide

Charging your electric car at home is essential and upgrading to the best EV charger is highly recommended. The latest charging stations are much more easier to use and have seen a vast amount of improvements over the last couple of years. Compared with the standard electric car charger provided when you purchase the vehicle, a level 2 charger is by far the better option.

To help you make an informed buying decision, we have produced the below guide regarding EV chargers.

Level 2 EV Charger

Hardwired vs Plug-in Installation

Depending upon where you intend to install the EV charger in your home will determine the best suited charger. A plug-in charging station is one that simply plugs into a 240 volt outlet in your home and is portable for use elsewhere. If you own two or more homes, investing into a portable EV charger is often the best option.

The hardwired EV charger is mostly installed as a permanent feature of your home. They avoid the hassle of a junction box and offer far more functionality when compared to the plug-in alternative. Hardwired chargers are more expensive and require a more complex installation but they offer the best performance.

Location of the Charger

Not all electric car owners are lucky enough to have a garage, which means the best option is to install an outdoor charging station. These weather-proof chargers include a holster, which allows you to slot the J1772 connector into it, which helps to keep it dry.

All outdoor EV chargers will have a NEMA rating, which classifies the charging stations. Both NEMA 3 and NEMA 4 rated electric car chargers are suitable for outdoor usage.

Level 1 vs Level 2 Charger

The majority of electric cars are sold with a level 1 charger, which can be used with a 120 volt outlet. However, upgrading to a level 2 EV charger provides far better performance and allows for quicker charging of your car. However, you will need to install a 240 volt outlet to be able to use this type of electric car charger.

Many of the manufacturers listed within this article state that using a level 2 charger will provide up to five times quicker charging of your car. Most public charging stations also use a level 2 charger due to the speed of charging.

If you intend on using your level 2 EV charger in other locations, we highly recommend investing into a level 1 adapter. This will allow you to use a 120 volt outlet and make the electric car charger more versatile.

Home EV Charger

Charging Station Amperage

The speed to which an EV charger can fully charge an electric vehicle is dependent upon it charging power. All manufacturers will state an amperage rating that varies from 16 amps to as high as 75 amps for the more premium options.

As well as the amperage, most brands will also state the Kilowatts of the charging station. If it isn’t stated, it can be calculated by multiplying the voltage and amperage.

It may be tempting to choose the highest powered charging station but not all vehicles will be able to make use of all the power. An example of such electric vehicle is the Nissan Leaf produced prior to 2013.

The best option for most electric vehicles is an EV charger that’s rated at 30 amps or more. This provides plenty of power to reduce the time the car spends charging. In most cases, a standard 30 amp charging station will provide 30 miles of driving per hour.

Power Cable Length

The length of the power cable provided with the electric car charging station is very important. You will want to carefully plan the distance from where your electric car is parked to the location of the EV charger. Many manufacturers also offer an extension adapter or longer power cables to help improve the usability of their charging stations.

Integrated WiFi Connection

The inclusion of WiFi connectivity in your EV charger makes it able to connect to smart devices. For example, the ChargePoint is able to connect to a smartphone application and even an Amazon Alexa.

Connecting to a smartphone application allows you to further control the EV charger. For example, if you have “Time of Use” metering at your home, you can schedule the charging to occur during the cheapest time of the day for electric. Other benefits include being able to see max charge rates, real time power metrics, amperage, history and much more.

Electric Car Charger

Charging Station Installation

Apart from installing a junction box within your home outlet, portable EV chargers don’t require a complex installation. However, installing a hardwired charging station will require an electrician to safely install it at your home.

The installation itself requires drilling and lots of wiring but once installed professionally, it won’t require much maintenance.

Safety Certifications

To ensure that the EV charger is safe to use and doesn’t damage your car, it’s important that you check for safety certifications. There are many cheap options available that may be tested but not to the standards that you would expect.

Some of the safety certifications used by reputable manufacturers include:

  • UL
  • TUV
  • CE
  • FCC
  • ETL
  • NEC 625

If the EV charger has been certified, it will be clearly listed upon the charging station or at least on the box provided by the manufacturer.

Available Tax Credits

Everywhere around the world is pushing drivers to switch to electric cars. In order to make them more desirable, many states provide incentives such as tax credits, which helps reduce the costs involved with electric cars. EV chargers aren’t cheap and it’s always worthwhile checking for any incentives available.

The tax credits are based per state and you can check for any state incentives for installing an EV charger on the Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy website.

240 Volt EV Charger

Conclusion

If you own an electric car, investing into the best EV charger is a worthwhile investment. The latest level 2 chargers provide ultra-quick charging and are much cheaper than the options available from the dealership. They also come packed full of additional functionality to improve usability and provide real time data feedback.

All of our recommendations are suited to a range of budgets and include both hardwired and plug-in stations. To avoid disappointment, we advise that you purchase from a reputable brand that clearly state all the safety certifications of the charging station.

procarreviews author

Written By Dan

About the Author

Dan is an automotive journalist and owner of over 10 cars ranging from supercars, tuned cars, classics and your good old beater cars. He always likes to get his hands dirty with nut and bolt restorations or detailing sessions using the best products on the market.

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