Best Home EV Chargers for 2023, Tested
This article was updated in July 2023 with new products and information. We plan to update this article regularly as needed.
Okay, so you bought your first electric vehicle. Now what? There are a number of ways in which EV ownership will be different from having a vehicle with an internal-combustion engine, but a big one you need to figure out immediately is charging.
Trust us, you’ll want to be charging at home as much as possible. This has two significant benefits: Charging can be accomplished when the vehicle is otherwise parked, and home charging is substantially cheaper (roughly one-third the cost) of DC fast-charging.
Our Top Picks
Things to Consider
There are three major factors to consider when considering a home EV charger: the output of the household circuit you’re connecting to, the output of the EV charging equipment, and the rate of charging that your vehicle can handle.
We’ve gathered seven charging options to connect your house to your electric car that range in price from $300 to $700, all of which are compatible with any new EV on sale today. The more expensive ones tend to have Wi-Fi connectivity, which lets you monitor charging, receive alerts, and control the unit via an app. Many of these products have variants (hard-wired or plug, different output capabilities, and varying cord lengths) with slightly different prices.
Shop the best home EV charging station deals on Amazon
Best Overall EV Charger: ChargePoint Home Flex EV Charger
ChargePoint Home Flex Electric Vehicle Charger
ChargePoint Home Flex Electric Vehicle Charger
$679 at Amazon
Credit: Michael Simari
Pros
- Remote monitoring and control
- Nuanced cost tracking
- Smart functions integrated into same ChargePoint app used for public charging
Cons
- One of the most expensive
- Lesser outdoor rating than some of the others
- Lower output settings require hardwire installation
- Output capability: 50/48/40/32/24/16 amps (12.
0/11.5/9.6/7.7/5.8/3.8 kW)
- Cord length: 23 feet
- Cord management: Built in
- Outdoor rating: Yes (NEMA 3R)
ChargePoint is one of the largest providers of public charging, with thousands of units nationwide. Its Home Flex unit tested here integrates into the same app used to connect to the company’s public units. You can add your vehicle in the app, which tailors the percentage of the battery replenished and number of EPA miles added to your specific vehicle. We found the app to be very user-friendly, with the best displays for charge-rate graphs, and it also shows the total charge time and total energy output during each charge. Furthermore, it offers the ability to schedule charging times to take advantage of variable-cost electricity during off-peak hours (most EVs also allow this to be configured in their settings menu).
The ChargePoint app has the most nuanced cost tracking, allowing us to select from among dozens of possible rate plans from our local utility to pinpoint the actual cost of charging down to the penny, even when on a variable rate. We also appreciate the simplicity of the built-in notch at the top of the unit to wrap the cord around and that the plug latches onto its dock in the center; many other units require mounting a second cord-management device.
Best EV Charger on a Budget: Emporia EV Charger
Best EV Charger on a Budget
Emporia EV Charger
Best EV Charger on a Budget
Emporia EV Charger
$399 at Amazon
Credit: Michael Simari
Pros
- Respected electricity-tracking company
- Comparatively high output
- Attractive price point
Cons
- App is cluttered
- Can’t enter specific vehicles
- Output capability: 48–6 amps (11.5–1.4 kW)
- Cord length: 24 feet
- Cord management: Included wall mount
- Outdoor rating: Yes (NEMA 4)
Emporia offers a vast library of electricity-monitoring devices, from typical smart outlets to a system that tracks every circuit in your fuse panel. This entire electricity-tracking universe is integrated into Emporia’s app, including the ability to link your EV to the app through the Smartcar API. But if you’re just using the EV charging equipment, navigating around all of these unused areas makes the app seem overly complex.
Emporia is a full-feature connected EV charger for an impressively low price.
Car and Driver
Otherwise, this is an impressive Wi-Fi-connected entry at a price hundreds of dollars less than the JuiceBox or ChargePoint. The 11.5-kW-output capability is at the high end of this roundup. And short of a couple of features, such as using a specific vehicle to estimate the miles or battery percentage gained, the Emporia has just about everything, including detailed electricity pricing using your actual utility plan like the ChargePoint.
Also Great: Tesla Wall Connector EV Charger
Also Great:
Tesla J1772 Wall Connector
Also Great:
Tesla J1772 Wall Connector
$550 at tesla. com
Credit: Michael Simari
Pros
- Reasonable price, easy setup
- Can charge more than just Teslas
- Some advanced features
Cons
- No energy monitoring
- May need an adapter to connect to non-Teslas
- Output capability: 48/40/32/24/16/12 amps (11.5/9.6/7.7/5.8/3.8/2.9 kW)
- Cord length: 24 feet
- Cord management: Built in
- Outdoor rating: Yes (NEMA 3R)
Buy at amazon
Even if you don’t own a Tesla, the company’s Wall Connector is a good option. In addition to Tesla’s NACS plug, the brand now offers its home charging unit with the round J1772 plug most other EVs currently use. This new feature is somewhat ironic in light of a number of automakers recently announcing they will be adopting Tesla’s NACS plug type by 2025. But even with the Tesla plug, connecting to a non-Tesla EV simply requires an adapter (such as this one from Lectron).
This third-generation Tesla charging unit has Wi-Fi capability, which allows for firmware updates but doesn’t include any ability to control or monitor charging. But if you have a Tesla, any of that data and adjustability is available from the vehicle using a third-party application such as TeslaFi.
Tesla’s Wall Connector is a cinch to set up.
Dave VanderWerp|Car and Driver
Although the lack of electricity tracking is probably the biggest drawback, Tesla’s home-charging unit has a few advanced features that none of the other units have. For instance, it can network multiple units together to share a single circuit where the combined output will never exceed a set threshold. Also, with the Tesla plug unit, you can choose to allow specific Tesla vehicles to charge while blocking others.
The setup process for the Wall Connector is easy; you simply scan the QR code on the side of the unit to connect to Wi-Fi and then set the output limit through a web-based interface. Surprisingly, although the Wall Connector is capable of nearly the highest output of our group (48 amps or 11.5 kilowatts), it has the thinnest, most flexible cables. We also find the Wall Connector’s sleek shape and glasslike clear top layer the most visually appealing.
Other home EV chargers we tested:
JuiceBox 40 EV Charger
JuiceBox 40 Smart EV Charging Station with WiFi
JuiceBox 40 Smart EV Charging Station with WiFi
Now 12% Off
$560 at Amazon
Credit: Michael Simari
Pros
- Remote monitoring and control
- Different output versions offered
Cons
- Clunky app
- Higher-end pricing
- No electricity cost tracking
- Output capability: 40/32/24/16/12/6 amps (9.6/7.7/5.8/3.8/2.9/1.4 kW)
- Cord length: 25 feet
- Cord management: Built in
- Outdoor rating: Yes (NEMA 4X/IP66)
When we first tested these charging units in 2022, we liked the JuiceBox best. Since then, the company redesigned its app, so we gave it another go. We were surprised to find the app to be less intuitive to use. Certain features, such as showing the charge curves for past charges, are gone, and this app annoyingly logged us out far more frequently than the others. Nevertheless, the JuiceBox is still one of the most feature-rich Wi-Fi-enabled Level 2 chargers.
One small advantage for the JuiceBox is that it is offered in a number of output levels, and if your household circuit can’t take full advantage of the maximum, choosing a lesser variant can lower the price. In addition to the 40-amp version we tested, there’s a 48-amp version that’s at the high end of this group and a 32-amp version that costs slightly less (since we were using a 40-amp circuit, we couldn’t take advantage of the JuiceBox 40’s full output anyway).
We were surprised that the JuiceBox’s new app was a step backward in terms of both ease of use and features.
Car and Driver
Like the ChargePoint unit, the JuiceBox provides energy output and charge time for each charging session, various adjustable notifications, and the ability to set up customized charge times to take advantage of differing electricity pricing. But it can’t match ChargePoint’s nuanced utility pricing information or the Emporia’s low price.
Lectron 32 Amp
Lectron 32 Amp
Lectron 32 Amp
$319 at Amazon$320 at Lectron
Credit: Michael Simari
Pros
- Cheapest option we tested
- Allows for energy tracking
Cons
- Not Wi-Fi enabled
- No included mounting solution.
- Output capability: 32/16/13/10 amps (7.7/3.8/3.1/2.4 kW)
- Cord length: 21 feet
- Cord management: none
- Outdoor rating: Yes (IP67)
This Lectron is one of the cheapest options, so it’s not surprising that there’s no wall mount, but a simple hose reel or hook mounted to the wall could take care of that. Even though the Lectron isn’t a “smart” unit with Wi-Fi capability, it has a small LCD screen that displays voltage, amperage, charge time, energy (kWh), and temperature.
The charging-time readout resets with each charge, but the kilowatt-hours dispensed don’t, making it more difficult to track your ev’s efficiency.
Dave VanderWerp|Car and Driver
This unit came with no instructions, but with only two buttons, it wasn’t too hard to figure out that holding down the “+” was how to set the limit on current, which can be adjusted among 10, 13, 16, or 32 amps of output to match your wall circuit. When you plug in, charge time starts over, but the kilowatt-hour readout doesn’t, so if you want to monitor individual charges to track your car’s efficiency, you have to unplug and replug before every charge. If you want to track your charging fastidiously, one of the Wi-Fi-connected units is probably a better choice, and the Emporia doesn’t even cost much more.
Grizzl-E Smart EV Charger
Grizzl-E EV Charger
Grizzl-E EV Charger
Now 12% Off
$350 at Amazon
Credit: Michael Simari
Pros
- One of the least expensive smart options
Cons
- Finicky app integration
- Thickest cable is the hardest to manipulate
- Changing output or Wi-Fi connection requires removing the faceplate
- Current limited availability of the smart version
- Output capability: 40/32/24/16 amps (9.
6/7.7/5.8/3.8 kW)
- Cord length: 24 feet
- Cord management: Included wall mount
- Outdoor rating: Yes (NEMA 4X/IP67)
The promise of the Grizzl-E Smart is that it can theoretically pair with any EV charging app that uses the OCPP (Open Charge Point Protocol) 1.6 and it’s one of the cheapest smart units. Unfortunately, it took months to get ours to connect. Initially, Grizzl-E said its unit could work with either AmpUp or ChargeLab apps, but now it’s only the latter. It appears that Grizzl-E has streamlined the connection process considerably since we first tried using this unit, and we were eventually able to get a firmware update and connect it to the ChargeLab app.
Grizzl-E touts the ruggedness of its beefy aluminum enclosure, with videos on its website showing a small off-road vehicle running over it (which seems completely unnecessary for a thing that’s mounted on a wall in or outside your garage). It also had the thickest cables, which were consequently the most resistant to hanging up after charging. A wall mount for the cable is included.
This is totally fine. EVs are designed to be able to charge safely in rain, snow, or ice.
Dave VanderWerp|Car and Driver
Like the other units, this one can adjust among various output levels, but that’s most difficult to accomplish in the Grizzl-E. Rather than change it via the app, you have to take off the front cover and toggle DIP switches. The unit can, however, be preordered to a specific setting to save that hassle. The cover also must be removed to reset the Wi-Fi connection, which we did at least a half-dozen times when trying to get ours to connect.
[Note: Although we tested the Grizzl-E Smart, it is currently out of stock, so instead, we’re linking to the regular Grizzl-E, which has the same enclosure and charging stats but without the Wi-Fi connectivity.]
Electrify America EV Charger
Electrify America EV Charger
Electrify America EV Charger
$649 at Amazon
Credit: Michael Simari
Pros
- Integrates with the Electrify America app many EV owners likely already have
Cons
- Bulkier than other units
- Not as feature-rich as the best
- Ours stopped communicating with the app after one charge
- Output capability: 40/32/16 amps (9.
6/7.7/3.8 kW)
- Cord length: 24 feet
- Cord management: Included wall mount
- Outdoor rating: Yes (NEMA 3R)
As with our top-pick ChargePoint unit, this Electrify America home charging station integrates with the same app used for the company’s public fast-chargers (most EV owners likely already have it on their phone). Setup is easy—the app offers the ability to scan the unit’s barcode to add it to your account and connect it to Wi-Fi. But the short cable that plugs into the house’s outlet limits mounting options. And we’re not sure why this unit is so large, but it’s far bulkier than the others and still doesn’t include any cord management, which is handled by a separate holster that is included and mounts to the wall. Despite that the Italian design house Italdesign is credited on the enclosure for the design, we don’t think it’s nearly as sleek as the Tesla Wall Connector.
This is the only time the Electrify America charger tracked a charge through the app.
Car and Driver
After successfully tracking the first charge, our unit stopped communicating with the app, despite still indicating it was connected. After trying every possible reset, we spent a half-hour with the support line doing the same, none of which fixed the issue. After we followed instructions to send a follow-up email with a screen grab from the app, we never heard back. But even the lone time it did work, we didn’t like that it doesn’t display a charging curve or indicate when charging stopped. That info comes in handy when trying to manage charge-time windows to potentially take advantage of variable electricity rates and make sure the car has enough time to charge before you plan to depart (e.g., after the car is plugged in overnight, you don’t know whether it was fully charged hours before your departure or minutes before you’re leaving).
How We Tested EV Chargers
When putting together this story, I went down the same path a new EV owner would, starting with installing a dedicated 240-volt outlet in my garage. We have charging at the Car and Driver office, but I needed a proper setup at home to support all of the EVs we’re reviewing these days. I was able to add a 40-amp circuit to the existing electric service in my house without a pricey upgrade to run additional capacity, so that’s why I landed on a 40-amp outlet versus a 50-amp setup. To be able to easily switch among the units, we ordered the NEMA 14-50 plug-in variant of each charging device. (Note: Tesla doesn’t sell a version of its Wall Connector with a plug, so to keep our test comparable, we wired one in ourselves to connect to our NEMA 14-50 outlet.)
In the first round of testing, we used each unit to charge our long-term Tesla Model 3 numerous times over a period of months. We then compared the electricity output from the wall to what the Model 3 reported made it into its battery pack using the third-party (and very cool) TeslaFi software. Recently, we tested a few new units along with our favorites from before using our long-term Rivian R1T, verifying the energy delivered to the vehicle an inline electrical meter. Despite varying cord lengths and thicknesses, there was no measurable difference in performance or efficiency (which averaged roughly 5 to 8 percent charging losses).
We built this inline meter to verify how much energy is delivered to the vehicle.
Michael Simari|Car and Driver
FAQs
What are the different types of EV chargers?
Charging capability is categorized into three tiers. Level 1 and Level 2 use 120-volt and 240-volt AC electricity, respectively, which is what your house is wired for. Level 3, also called DC fast-charging, is high-voltage (400 to 800 volts) DC charging that takes place at a dedicated public EV charger and charges far faster. DC fast-chargers cost hundreds of thousands of dollars to install, so it’s not something you’d put in at home.
Are all home EV chargers the same?
Home-charging equipment is analogous to a USB cable to charge your phone. It connects the electricity in your house to your car, and in that way they’re all similar. The main differences are their output capability—typically expressed in either amps (e.g., 32, 40, 48 amps) or power (e.g., 7.7, 9.6, 11.5 kW), which equates to charging speed—and whether they are Wi-Fi connected, which typically allows charging to be monitored and controlled remotely via a phone app.
What’s the difference between Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 charging?
The charging “Levels” generally refer to charging speed. Level 1 is extremely slow (think multiple days for a full charge), Level 2 is adequate for at-home use (an EV can charge overnight), and Level 3 is the fastest (a half-hour top-up might add 80 percent charge). Technically, the difference is the voltage at which energy is input into an EV. Level 1 means 120 volts, like a typical household outlet, with a typical charging rate of 1.4 kilowatts. Level 2 is 240 volts (like an electric dryer) and, depending on the amperage of the circuit, can range between 5. 8 and 19.2 kW. Level 3, DC fast-charging, typically operates at 400 or 800 volts, and the rates can be as high as 350 kW.
Are there tax breaks for EV owners who buy a home charger?
Yes. The sweeping Inflation Reduction Act reinstated a federal tax credit of 30 percent of your total costs (capped at $1000). That includes money spent on electrical upgrades and wiring to your house, in addition to the charging unit itself. This credit is currently set to be in place through 2032. In addition, there are often additional state or regional incentives, so make sure to check what’s available in your area.
Do I need to buy EV charging equipment?
Not necessarily. While you do need a device to connect the electricity from your house to your vehicle, you may be able to get by with the portable charging equipment that came with your vehicle. In some cases, the car either comes with or the automaker sells accessory adapters that allow the portable unit to plug into a 240-volt circuit and provide perfectly acceptable charging speeds, as long as you don’t mind leaving it behind in your garage (or regularly loading it in and out of your car).
Which plug type should I choose for my charging equipment?
Although several automakers have announced a switch from a J1772 connector to Tesla’s North America Charging Standard (NACS) design in the 2025 time frame, whether you buy a J1772 or NACS unit today doesn’t limit its future compatibility. There are adapters to go from NACS to J1772 or vice versa, and with the mixed ports both on the vehicles and the public-charging infrastructure, EV owners will need to get used to keeping adapters in their vehicles to be prepared for whichever plug type they encounter.
Can charging equipment be mounted outside?
Generally, yes. Each charging unit we tested has an outdoor-grade rating according to either the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) or Ingress Protection (IP) standards. A NEMA 3R rating, like the ChargePoint and Tesla Wall Connector have, is intended for outdoor use, but does not mean water tight; under certain circumstances moisture could potentially enter the enclosure. The NEMA 4X rating of the JuiceBox 40 and Grizzl-E is superior. The IP ratings are two digits, the first representing the unit’s resistance to solids (in this case dust) and the second number representing water protection. An IP66 rating means the unit is intended for outdoor use, with complete protection from dust or high-pressure water. But an IP67 goes one step further and can be immersed in water up to three feet deep.
Another thing to keep in mind with charging equipment mounted outside is that the electrical feed line to that location must also be in an outdoor-rated enclosure and, if you’re using a plug-type unit like we tested, that the outlet’s enclosure must also be rated for outdoor use.
How do I wire my house to charge an EV and how much does it cost?
A good middle ground is a 40- or 50-amp circuit, which will be able to charge most EVs overnight. EV charging equipment can either connect via a plug or be hardwired into your home’s electricity. We suggest going with a NEMA 14-50 outlet; that way the charging equipment simply plugs into an outlet, similar to any other household device. If you move, you can unplug your pricey EV charging equipment and take it with you, or you can easily switch to another unit in the future. Plus, when you’re not charging, that outlet could also be used for other 240-volt needs, such as an electric heater or a welder.
A dedicated electrical line must be run from your breaker box to the garage or exterior location where you want to install the charging equipment. Qmerit is a company that specializes in these installs and has a nationwide network of electrical contractors to do the work. If your house has enough spare electrical capacity, you may be able to simply run a new line, which might cost a few hundred dollars. If not, more capacity needs to be added to your house, and that might raise the total to a couple of thousand dollars.
What’s the difference between a vehicle’s onboard charger and an EV charger?
Although many people refer to the products reviewed here as “chargers,” technically they are electric-vehicle supply equipment, or EVSE. The vehicle’s onboard charger is a device that converts the AC electricity from your house to DC energy to be stored in the battery, and it determines the fastest Level 2 charging rate your vehicle can handle. No matter how much electrical output you have at your house, you can’t exceed the charge rate limited by the onboard charger.
Why Trust Us
Car and Driver has been testing cars since 1956, and we continue to measure the maximum acceleration, braking, and cornering performance of many hundreds of vehicles every year. In addition, we measure everything from cargo capacity to how much a vehicle’s pillars block outward visibility to real-world fuel economy at 75 mph. When you read one of our reviews, you’re getting the value of decades of hands-on automotive experience and knowledge. More recently, we’ve added new tests to measure the burgeoning class of electric vehicles. Those include a range test at a steady 75-mph highway speed and a fast-charging test from 10 percent to 90 percent state of charge. You can read more about our extensive vehicle testing here. We know and love cars and live and breathe them all day, every day.
We’re setting the same standards for our equipment and gear reviews as our vehicle evaluations: We compare similar items, put their performance into context, and tell it like it is. Whether we’re reviewing cars, products, or services, our writers and editors select and evaluate items based solely on merit, and we rely on our experience, knowledge, and expert input from contacts throughout the automotive industry to provide the most honest evaluations we can. Most products are purchased; others are supplied for candid assessment. We never accept payola to review or feature products. Car and Driver is committed to our editorial independence; moreover, so is our parent company, Hearst Autos.
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Car and Driver
Dave VanderWerp
Director, Vehicle Testing
Dave VanderWerp has spent more than 20 years in the automotive industry, in varied roles from engineering to product consulting, and now leading Car and Driver‘s vehicle-testing efforts. Dave got his very lucky start at C/D by happening to submit an unsolicited resume at just the right time to land a part-time road warrior job when he was a student at the University of Michigan, where he immediately became enthralled with the world of automotive journalism.
The 6 Best Car Chargers of 2023
Best Overall Car Charger
Anker PowerDrive Speed+ 2
$26 at Amazon
72
OVERALL
SCORE
Technology: PD, IC | Ports: 2
REASONS TO BUY
IQ2 compatible
PD port
Aesthetic power light
Approachable price
REASONS TO AVOID
Somewhat large
The Anker PowerDrive Speed+ 2 is the best overall car charger we tested. With IQ2 and PD 3.0 technology, almost any old or modern device will be supplied with enough power to charge as quickly as your device is capable. The IQ2 technology effectively delivers QC3 compatible devices, like most Samsung and Android devices, the power they require for ‘fast charging’ modes while also providing PD 3.0 technology for the wide range of charging rates on Apple devices, from smartphones to tablets.
It was difficult to find something to dislike about the Anker PowerDrive Speed+ 2, but if we had a single complaint, it is that the Anker is a little bulkier than similar models. Of course, it’s a minor complaint as it’s still plenty small. Overall, this is an exceptional and versatile car charger that has an approachable price tag and even includes an aesthetically pleasing lighted ring. Unless you need more than a single PD or IQ/QC compatible port, this is a near-perfect model and deserves your consideration.
The Anker PowerDrive Speed+ 2 proved to be one of the best models we tested, as it supports a PD3 port, as well as an IC2/QC3 port, and it’s aesthetically pleasing.
Credit: Benjamin Hickok
Best Bang for the Buck
Spigen SteadiBoost
$20 at Amazon
70
OVERALL
SCORE
Technology: PD, QC | Ports: 2
REASONS TO BUY
PD and QC support
Relatively compact
Affordable
REASONS TO AVOID
Dim power light
The Spigen SteadiBoost is an incredibly capable car charger with a standard format and the technology to support both PD 3.0 and QC 3.0 compatible devices. It’s also an affordable model and a model that we felt offered one of the most exceptional values from a two-port car charger on the market today.
It’s hard to find specific things to criticize about the Spigen SteadiBoost, but if we had to really dig, we wish the power indicator light was a little brighter or larger or the actual USB ports were backlit. Again, our gripes are fairly minor, and this is an impressive model that amazingly offers QC 3. 0 and PD 3.0 charging technologies for less than a twenty-dollar bill.
The Spigen SteadiBoost is an exceptional car charger, capable of fast charging a wide range of QC3 and PD3 compatible devices.
Credit: Benjamin Hickok
Best for Multiple Devices and Older Vehicles
Tollefe 78W 5-in-1
$22 at Amazon
71
OVERALL
SCORE
Technology: PD,QC | Ports: 5
REASONS TO BUY
5 ports
PD and QC support
Voltmeter
REASONS TO AVOID
Doesn’t support 5 simultaneous devices
A little messy
The Tollefe 78W 5-in-1 proved to be a very capable charger and a good option for adding smart charging options to a second-row seat. We like the arrangement of the five ports with two QC 3.0 and one PD 3 on the rear extension, as well as one QC 3.0 and one PD 3 port at the location of the 12v cigarette lighter adapter. Additionally, this model incorporates a voltmeter with a simple LED display that reads your vehicle or power source’s voltage. While this may not be super important to many more modern vehicles, it’s nice to observe the charge level of your power source, especially if it’s an unregulated 12v lead acid battery, for the output voltage and health of your vehicle’s electrical system.
The general design of the Tollefe 78W 5-in-1, with a 6-foot extension wire, means that it can get a little messy. Also worth noting is that it has five smart charging ports, but only three can be fully supported simultaneously before there is a significant degradation across all of the ports and charging performance. All around, it’s a great option for large modern families with an older or classic vehicle.
The Tollefe 78W 5-in-1 is a great way to add smart charging ports to the second row of an older model or classic car.
Credit: Benjamin Hickok
Best for Many QC 3.
0 Devices
AI AIKENUO Multiport QC 3.0
$26 at Amazon
68
OVERALL
SCORE
Technology: QC, 2.4A | Ports: 6 (four QC, two 2.4A)
REASONS TO BUY
4 QC ports
2 2.4A ports
Consistent power to all ports
REASONS TO AVOID
Bulky
No PD ports
The AI AIKENUO Multiport QC 3.0 is a great charger for those who demand a lot of power to keep multiple QC3-compatible devices charged while on the go. It simultaneously supports charging multiple devices at the maximum rates and does not reduce power to a given port as devices are plugged in.
Four simultaneously supported QC 3.0 ports in addition to two standard 2.4 amp USB-A ports cause the AI AIKENUO Multiport QC 3.0 to be just a little bit bulky; however, its design is sleek and aesthetic for its size. This car charger should be enough to keep multiple smartphones, tablets, and action cameras juiced up and ready for the next adventure, and it is worth considering if you have lots of QC or standard USB-compatible devices.
The AI AIKENUO Multiport QC 3.0 is attractive even for it’s larger size, and impressive for its simultaneous support of 4 QC3 ports.
Credit: Benjamin Hickok
Best Wireless Charger
iOttie Auto Sense
$60 at Amazon
58
OVERALL
SCORE
Technology: QC & Wireless QI | Ports: 1
REASONS TO BUY
Wireless IQ support
Extra USB port
Auto-sensing lock
REASONS TO AVOID
Bulky
Pricey
The iOttie Auto Sense Qi Wireless Car Charger is a fantastic device for those who frequently use their smartphone’s wireless charging feature while on the go. The device is easy to use, with an automatic sensing system that allows you to simply place your phone on the charger and let it do the rest. The charger is also equipped with Qi wireless charging technology, which allows you to charge your phone quickly and efficiently without having to fuss with cords or wires. One of the standout features of this charger is its strong suction cup mount that will hold your phone securely in place while driving, even on bumpy roads. The charger is also compatible with a wide range of phone sizes.
While we liked the iOttie Auto Sense, the nature of its design makes it inherently bulky. We also liked that the charger includes an extra USB port, but we wish it was rated to either QC, IQ, or PD. Overall, if you’re in the market for a high-quality wireless car charger, this model is definitely worth considering.
The iOttie Auto Sense is an intelligent wireless IQ fast charger, and as the name suggests, detects your phone and locks it into place automatically.
Credit: Benjamin Hickok
Best for Creators
BESTEK 300W Power Inverter
$30 at Amazon
51
OVERALL
SCORE
Technology: A/C, 2.4A | Ports: 4
REASONS TO BUY
A/C outlets
2 USB-A 2. 4A ports
Relatively inexpensive
REASONS TO AVOID
Bulky
No QC, PD, or IQ2
The BESTEK 300W Power Inverter is the best option for creators on the go. In particular, those with a 110 A/C power requirement. While we live in an increasingly modern world that is heavily dependent on mobile devices, and mobile media, nothing beats a laptop for content creation. Sure, you can use apps to produce shorts, but high-end photo touch-ups or cutting a film for more than a couple of minutes really require the use of a laptop, and in most cases, that laptop will require an A/C outlet.
Unfortunately, since the BESTEK is a 300-watt A/C inverter and not just a DC-to-DC charger, it’s a little clunky. Also, while it has two USB-A ports, they are standard 2.4A ports and do not support fast charging standards like PD or QC. In terms of a smartphone charger, it’s rather limited when it comes to speed. However, on a comparative scale to most two-outlet 300-watt inverters, it’s relatively compact. We think it is a good tradeoff for creators on the go, who need to power action cameras, headlamps, and smartphones, but also need to do work on a laptop to do things like cut and publish videos.
The BESTEK is a great option for creators on the go, that require basic USB-A ports in addition to A/C outlets.
Credit: Benjamin Hickok
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Our fused test station allows us to measure current, and validate the claims of devices with actual current draw.
Credit: Benjamin Hickok
Why You Should Trust Us
We began our review process by sorting through dozens of the most common chargers on the market and then narrowed down our selection to the most promising models. We made sure to include chargers with fast charging technologies, wide device support, and multiport chargers. We purchased these chargers for our rigorous hands-on testing process, which included very technical electric measurements, in addition to higher-level evidence gathering, like timed battery charging.
Our testing is divided into the following four key metrics:
- Power Output & Charge Time (35% of overall score weighting)
- Ports (25% weighting)
- Features (25% weighting)
- Size (15% weighting)
For this review, we recruited Ben Hickok, who brings a strong electronics, IOT, software, and hardware background. Seeking the best climbing, skiing, hunting, and fishing adventures, he spends a lot of time in a car with the need to power objects like cameras that help him document and share his experiences. Working from the road, he frequently requires devices to keep laptops and smartphones charged. Unfortunately, keeping phones, cameras, laptops, headlamps, and other devices powered can be a challenge that often leads to a large mess of wires and electronics. Over time he’s narrowed down his process and reduced his clutter by seeking out versatile and capable car chargers to keep him organized while on the go.
Here we’re charging up our phone and mini projector for movie night with the AIKENUO Multiport.From a single device to many, we tried all the options.We charged all kinds of devices with each charger, pushing the limits as much as we could.
Analysis and Test Results
We’ve organized the thorough analysis following our testing by metric, identified notable models based on their respective performances, and also included details about different models that are important for choosing the best one for your needs.
Value
A lot of travelers may not need to power laptops, GPS systems, or cameras while on the road, and for most, a charger that is capable of supplying power to a smartphone that is adequate for at least one of many ‘fast charging’ modes is enough. As such, an A/C inverter isn’t the best choice to keep a phone powered on a work commute and wouldn’t be the greatest value. Likewise, a single 2.4 amp charger isn’t going to keep multiple action camera batteries powered up for the next adventure and would be an impractical purchase if that’s your intent.
In general, some models stood out as a good value, based purely on an overall performance metric to price ratio. The Anker PowerDrive Speed+ 2 offers exceptional performance all-around, with support for a wide range of devices (IQ2 and PD), at what seems like an approachable price point. However, the Spigen SteadiBoost offers similar performance for about two-thirds the price, supporting devices with PD and QC 3.0.
If you just need a single QC 3.0 charger to keep that one Samsung or other QC-compatible device charged while on the go, then the Hussell 3.0 is a really economical choice from which you can expect good and reliable performance.
The QC 3 capable Hussell 3.0.
Credit: Benjamin Hickok
Power Output & Charge Time
When it comes to charging times, the most important factor to consider is the actual power output that each model can produce, as the charging times of most smart devices are limited to onboard circuitry and not just the limitations of any particular charger. This metric, given its critical importance, comprises 35% of each charger’s total score.
Before diving into which models were top picks, it’s important to disseminate and understand the different charging technologies, especially the most commonly used and supported ones. PD (Power Delivery), QC (Quick Charge), and IQ (Intelligent Quick Charge) are all different charging technologies used by various companies in their chargers and devices. Each technology has its own unique features and benefits.
- Power Delivery (PD) is a charging technology that uses an advanced communication protocol to negotiate the charging voltage and current with the device being charged, allowing for faster and more efficient charging. PD can deliver up to 100W of power and is compatible with a wide range of devices.
- Quick Charge (QC) is a charging technology developed by Qualcomm that enables faster charging times for compatible devices. QC chargers use a proprietary communication protocol between the charger and the device being charged to increase the charging voltage and current, resulting in faster charging times.
QC is currently available in versions up to 5.0, which supports up to 100W of power, but the most common QC we see in small devices like a car charger is QC 3.0.
- PowerIQ (IQ) is a charging technology that provides fast and efficient charging for compatible devices. IQ chargers use a proprietary communication protocol to detect the device being charged and adjust the charging voltage and current accordingly, resulting in faster charging times. IQ is available in versions up to 3.0, which supports up to 60W of power. However, IQ 2.0 is receiving wider adoption as it supports QC 2.0 and QC 3.0 compatible devices and powers them with their specific power requirements.
In summary, PD, QC, and IQ are all different charging technologies that offer various benefits and features. Understanding if your devices are intended to be charged with one versus another can help you choose the best charger for your specific needs.
The top scoring models for supporting quick charging technologies were the Anker PowerDrive Speed+ 2, Spigen SteadiBoost, and AI AIKENUO Multiport QC 3. 0, in that respective order. The Anker PowerDrive earned high marks for an IQ2 port (which has overlapping support for QC 3.0) and a separate PD USB-C port. The Spigen is just as exceptional for reliably supporting a PD USB-C port as well as a QC 3.0 USB-A port.
The fast charging standards listed on the top scoring models, from IC2, and QC 3 to PD 3.
Credit: Ben Hickok
The AI AIKENOU proved to be pretty great, too, although it has no PD ports. What it does have, is four QC 3.0 ports and two additional 2.4A ports, and it supplies enough power to all ports during simultaneous use so that the charging speed of each device won’t slow down. So if you have four QC 3.0 devices that need to be frequently charged while on the road, this is a great option.
We also really liked the UGREEN USB C, as it generally tended to support both QC 3.0 and PD. However, using anything other than a shorter length of cable on the UGREEN caused the QC 3.0 to fail to supply our test device with the correct voltage and current to go into ‘fast charging’ mode. We repeated the test and tested against other top models that supported the protocol, and those other models were able to operate with longer-length cables.
The Joyroom 5 Multi-port and Tollefe 78W 5-in-1 both performed well in our testing. They proved to be rather good at supporting multiple devices, although their performances began to degrade as the connected devices exceeded three in specific combinations. Ideally, all five ports, whether QC 3.0 or PD, would supply the maximum power supported by the technology, with no degradation to charging rates as devices were connected.
The 5 smart charging ports on this model make it one of the best.
Credit: Ben Hickok
The Nekteck USB Type C and the Hussell 3.0 followed behind the power output leaders, but each one supports at least one PD or QC protocol.
The BESTEK 300W Power Inverter was an anomaly to the rules; while its USB charging ports were standard 5v 2. 4A USB-A ports, it is the only model we tested that inverts power to supply up to 300 watts across two 110-120V A/C outlets.
Our two wireless chargers were also anomalies to the rule, as they are heavily dependent on specific device technology. However, with the iOttie Auto Sense using the supplied charger to power the wireless platform, we achieved the 10w wireless fast charging rates (QI) supported by our test device. We achieved the same results using the CHGeek Wireless charging platform when connected to a QC 3.0 compatible car charger, as one is not supplied with this model.
Bringing up the rear in this specific test metric were the Scosche ReVolt Dual and the AINOPE Mini 4.8A. Neither model supports smart charging technology, and both are limited to 2.4A USB-A outputs.
A USB-A QC 3.0 port and a standard USB-A 2.4A ports.
Credit: Benjamin Hickok
Ports
Our second test metric awarded points for the number of rated ports, not just the quantity, and accounts for 25% of each model’s final score. We use the term rated to refer to any of the common charging rate standards that most smartphones and devices are capable of using. We specifically refer to QC 3.0, PD 3, and IQ power standards. We also expected a model to support at least one version of these protocols on a single port and any other ports to be 5v 2.4A USB-A at a minimum. The better car chargers we tested support multiple ports with one or more protocols, usually QC 3.0 and PD 3.
If you are looking for the model with the most number of rated ports, the AI AIKENUO Multiport QC 3.0 won’t disappoint, as it has six total ports. However, as the name suggests, it primarily supports QC 3-compatible devices. It includes four QC 3 ports, with an additional two USB-A 5v 2.4A ports, but it does not have any PD compatible ports, which should be a very important consideration for anyone that has devices that are only PD compatible.
The Joyroom 5 Multi-port and the Tollefe 78W 5-in-1 followed behind the AI AIKENUO Multiport QC 3. 0 with five ports, respectively. However, all five ports are intelligent. Each model incorporates 3 QC 3.0 ports and 2 PD 3 ports.
Two models with similar 5 port designs.
Credit: Benjamin Hickok
The uniquely different physical format of these two models places a couple of ports at the location of the 12v cigarette lighter while placing a couple of others about six feet away via a long cable, giving second-row seats an opportunity to use QC 3.0 and PD 3 ports.
Unfortunately, neither the Joyroom 5 Multi-port nor the Tollefe 78W 5-in-1 can actually support the full charging rates of each port when all ports are being used, and the entire device is limited to about three compatible devices, as the charging rates will decrease at each port.
The Anker PowerDrive Speed+ 2 and Spigen SteadiBoost both ranked well again for their respective support for two rated USB ports. Only the wireless charging models we tested included a single charging port, or no port at all, which is understandable given the intended purpose of their designs.
A wide range in the number of ports, and sizes of some of the top models we tested.
Credit: Benjamin Hickok
Features
Car chargers have some essential functions, but some have value-additive features that earn some models higher marks. The subtle details that our testers looked for account for 25% of each model’s overall score.
Our testing and evaluations specifically identified whether or not models included charging indicators and power indicating lights, whether each port had a light, a voltmeter, an informative LED display, as well as overall build quality and finish. Other features we assessed that attributed less to each score were the existence of AC Ports or easily replaceable or resettable fuses. However, in the case of the models that actually supported PD, QC, or IQ charging technologies, we asserted that these models had more intelligent protection for their integrated circuitry.
The BESTEK has a rocker style power switch on the rear, and an automatic cooling fan.
Credit: Benjamin Hickok
Although it proved to be somewhat limited compared to the best models we tested, the AINOPE Mini 4.8A has an all-metal housing with a nice finish, and combined with its small size, it is almost elegant. Its small size also lets it sit flush in a 12v cigarette lighter, making it look like it always belonged there.
The iOttie Auto Sense has a simple-to-use button and a sensor to detect when a phone has been placed on the charger, and a locking mechanism activates. Another nicety is that it has a USB-A port, so other devices can be supported.
As far as simple features go, we found the Anker PowerDrive Speed+ 2 power light to be quite aesthetically pleasing. The circumference of the face is a blue ring that illuminates when plugged in. We also liked how bright the ports are on the Hussell 3.0.
Attractively lighted ports of the Hussel 3.0.The attractive illuminated ring on the Anker makes it impossible to miss in the dark.
The Tollefe includes a voltmeter, which is a clever feature. So you’ll always have a good idea of when you need to disconnect objects from a 12v lead acid car battery or lead acid battery bank to prevent it from over-discharge and damage.
The simple yet clever and useful voltmeter built into this model is bright and clear.
Credit: Benjamin Hickok
Size
Lastly, we evaluated the size of each model and awarded more points for the compact nature of chargers. We took into consideration how the number of available ports affects each model’s volume. This metric contributed to 15% of each charger’s final score.
At the small end of the spectrum, the AINOPE Mini 4.8A and Scosche ReVolt Dual led the way for the smallest-sized chargers we tested. Unfortunately, neither of them supports QC, IQ, or PD charging and are unlikely to charge your most modern devices as quickly as they are capable of being charged.
The two smallest models we tested, the Scosche and the Ainope.
Credit: Benjamin Hickok
Fairly average chargers from a performance perspective, like the Hussell 3.0 and UGREEN USB C, are similarly constructed and were only slightly larger than the smallest models, but both support one smart charging protocol at a minimum. In the case of the Hussell 3.0, it’s a QC3 port, and in the case of the UGREEN USB C, it is a PD USB-C port. Worth noting though, is UGREEN claims to support QC 3.0 on the USB-A port, but our devices were unable to make use of QC 3.0, or it failed to detect and output an appropriate wattage when using anything other than a very short cable.
The better chargers we tested, especially more intelligent chargers that supported multiple smart charging technologies on more than one USB port, had a little more bulk to them, but additional circuitry for load detection and the correct DC-to-DC power transformation was likely the main factors for that extra mass. The Anker PowerDrive Speed+ 2 and the Spigen SteadiBoost are models that are rather exceptional overall yet still fairly compact.
As models increased in size, the design differences became more dramatic and purpose-driven. Larger models like the AI AIKENUO Multiport QC 3.0, Joyroom 5 Multi-port, and the Tollefe 78W 5-in-1 offer a lot more ports. The AIKENUO offers six total ports in a single unit, while the Joyroom and the Tollefe extend two to three ports, up to another three ports at the end of a 6-foot extension wire. They are not very bulky, and while they are extremely useful for delivering power to the second row of an older vehicle, there will always be a wire that needs to be tucked away somewhere.
Two wireless charging models we tested both support QI charging, when using either the included, or a not-included, QC3 capable charger.
Credit: Benjamin Hickok
We found the general designs of the wireless chargers we tested, the CHGeek and the iOttie Auto Sense, made them understandably a little bulky, although they can easily be removed or the telescoping arm on either one collapsed and folded down to preserve a little space when not in use.
The BESTEK 300W Power Inverter was the largest block-shaped car charger we tested. This is unsurprising, as this model is not just a standard two-port 5v 2.4A USB-A charger but a 300-watt inverter with two 110-120V A/C outlets in a solid aluminum housing that includes a cooling fan.
It’s a stark contrast between the smallest and largest model we tested.
Credit: Benjamin Hickok
Conclusion
We hope our comprehensive testing and evaluation of the most promising car chargers on the market today provides enough information to help you understand the range of charging technology that exists and how device compatibility has a big impact on charging performance. Hopefully, you will be able to identify which charger is the best fit for you and your devices, as well as your vehicle and lifestyle.
Wholesale car battery chargers, universal chargers
Wholesale car battery chargers, universal chargers
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Chargers for all types of car batteries with voltage 12V, 24V. Always available universal devices with adjustment for charging different types of batteries. The Vympel charger is equipped with protection (depending on the model) against short circuit, reverse polarity, overheating. Many models can be used as a power supply for a variety of equipment. In many models of chargers, indication systems are provided that allow you to obtain the necessary information. Chargers from NPP ORION LLC are able to meet your needs.
NPP “Orion” is a manufacturer of chargers, you can wholesale chargers from us.
Beware of fakes
Differences between the original chargers of OOO “NPP “ORION” from counterfeit ones, see here.
Selection of charger for different types of batteries
Filter
Compatible
Auto
Freight
Moto
Type of rechargeable batteries
AGM
EFB
GEL
Li-ion
Lipol
Ni-Cd
Ni-MH
WET Ag (silver)
WET Sb (antimony)
WET Сa/Ca (calcium)
WET Ca/Sb (hybrid)
Alkaline batteries
Maximum battery capacity, Ah
10
257. 5
505
752.5
1000
Maximum charging current, A
1.2
6
7
10
15
20
25
2
3
75
Maximum starting current, A
110
165
200
220
250
600
80
Charge voltage, V
0.5
4.2
5.5
7.4
7.5
12
13.6
14.1
14.2
14.4
14.6
14.8
15
16
18
19thirty
1.53
28.2
36
Current regulation
smooth
discrete
No
switch
Voltage regulation
smooth
discrete
No
switch
Indicator
LED voltmeter and ammeter
LCD display
Light-emitting diode
led ammeter
led display
pointer ammeter
pointer voltmeter
Use as prestarter
How to use the car start charger
Starter chargers are universal gadgets that will help you start a car engine when the battery is dead, as well as help control the battery charge and replenish it in a timely manner.
How to choose a ROM and how to use it, we will tell in this article.
How to connect the starter charger: preparation
When working with ROM, the exact implementation of all recommendations is required:
1. Be sure to read the passport and instructions for this battery. The battery passport must indicate the battery voltage.
2. If the battery needs to be removed to charge it, then the negative terminal must be disconnected first. Make sure all appliances in the vehicle are turned off to avoid causing an electrical arc.
3. Be sure to clean the battery terminals, use personal protective equipment.
4. When charging the battery, it is recommended to disconnect the negative terminal from the vehicle.
5. Check the electrolyte level in the battery, if necessary, add distilled water so that the plates are covered – the level should be indicated on the battery case.
6. Make sure that the charge mode you have chosen corresponds to that specified in the battery passport.
How to start the engine with starter charger
Engine starting:
– Make sure the power switch on the ROM is turned off
– Install the ROM near the car. The terminals of the vehicle’s on-board network must be connected to the battery
– Connect the red clamp to the positive terminal of the battery
– Connect the black clamp to the negative terminal of the battery
– Make sure there is good contact between the clamps and the battery terminals
– Connect the ROM to the mains
– Wait at least 5 minutes for the battery to recharge slightly, then start the engine.
Each start attempt should not exceed 3 seconds. If the start attempt was unsuccessful, wait at least 5 minutes to recharge the battery, as the power of the device for starting in difficult conditions alone may not be enough.
After a successful start of the engine, disconnect the power plug from the socket, then disconnect the clamps of the device from the battery terminals.
Remember that each type of ROM has its own startup features, so carefully read the instructions that came with the device before using it!
How to charge the battery with ROM
– Locate all wires so that there is no risk of damage from the hood, door, or moving machinery. Check battery polarity. The (+) battery terminal usually has a larger diameter than the (-) terminal.
– Determine which battery terminal is grounded (car body). If the (-) terminal is grounded (as in most vehicles), connect the (+ RED) clamp from the charger to the (+) positive battery terminal. Connect the (- BLACK) clamp to the car body or engine block away from the battery. Do not connect clamp to carburetor, fuel pipes, or sheet metal parts. Connect to a solid metal part or engine block.
– When disconnecting the charger, first disconnect it from the mains, then disconnect the clamp from the ground, then from the battery terminal.
If you are charging a vehicle-mounted battery, NEVER start the engine while the battery is being charged.
ATTENTION: Battery charging on boats is not allowed without special equipment! The battery must be removed from the craft and charged ashore. (Charging on board requires special equipment designed for marine use.)
Remember that each type of ROM has its own characteristics of the battery charging process, so carefully read the instructions that came with the device before using it!
How to use the booster charger correctly: Precautions
When using the starter charger, all safety rules must be strictly observed:
– Do not smoke near a charging battery
– Never charge the battery in a closed or confined space without ventilation
– Use the ROM only on a good battery
– Do not use ROM on a frozen battery
– If the cable or plug is damaged, do not use the ROM
– During the charging process, do not disconnect the ROM terminals from the battery, wait until the charging is completed. If you need to interrupt the process, then first disconnect the ROM from the network
– Be sure to protect your eyes and clothing when charging a lead-acid battery
– Avoid contact with metal on the battery during charging
– Do not touch the battery terminals while charging
– In case of electrolyte leakage from the battery case, it is necessary to thoroughly ventilate the room, turn off the ROM from the network, and then remove the clamps from the battery
– Do not install the ROM above the battery, so that the gases from the battery will not damage the ROM
– Protect the ROM from acid, moisture, rain or snow
How the starter charger works
A car start-charger combines the functionality of two gadgets at once (starter wires and a charger), and therefore provides ample opportunities for servicing various vehicles.
Depending on the selected operating mode, the ROM can start the engine when current is applied to crank the crankshaft with a discharged battery, or charge a discharged battery.
How to choose a charger for your car
There are main criteria by which it is recommended to choose a ROM:
– Voltage. Car batteries are charged from 12V, trucks and special equipment from 24V, scooters and motorcycles – from 6V
– Capacity. This value must match or be higher than the Ah value of the battery in your car in order for the charger to have enough power to recharge
– Device type. There are pulse (inverter) and transformer ROMs, the former are lighter and more compact, the latter are considered more reliable. The AIRLINE catalog contains both transformer and pulse ROMs.
– Control type. Lead-acid batteries are suitable for automatic starter chargers, calcium and gel batteries require a mode switching function
– Availability of indication. It is convenient if the ROM has a display that displays all the necessary information about the charge time, current and voltage.
Starter chargers in the AIRLINE catalog
Starter charger AJS-W-03 of the inverter type is also a welding machine: it allows you to recharge the battery, start the engine or perform manual arc welding with electrodes up to 5 mm in diameter.