Choosing the right home EV charger is key to optimizing charging speed, cost-effectiveness, and convenience. As electric vehicle (EV) ownership grows, understanding the types of chargers—particularly Level 2 chargers with Type 2 connectors—becomes essential.
This guide explores the best options for Type 2 EV chargers, focusing on Level 2 home charging solutions that balance speed and efficiency. With insights from comprehensive resources on Level 2 charging and detailed comparisons between Type 1 and Type 2 connectors, we’ll help you navigate the best choices for a seamless EV home charging experience.
A Type 2 EV charger is a widely used electric vehicle charger that features a seven-pin design and is primarily used for fast charging with alternating current (AC). It is the most common charging standard in Europe and the UK, offering faster charging speeds compared to Level 1 chargers. Type 2 chargers are compatible with most electric vehicles on the market, including popular models like the VW e-Golf, Renault Zoe, and Tesla Model S.
Typically used for home, workplace, and public charging stations, Type 2 chargers operate on a Level 2 charging system. In the United States, they work with a 208/240-volt power supply, while in Europe, they can be powered by either a 230-volt single-phase or 400-volt three-phase power input, making them adaptable to various electrical systems. Due to their efficiency and widespread compatibility, Type 2 chargers have become the standard choice for many EV owners worldwide.
If you're looking to understand the differences between AC and DC charging systems for electric vehicles (EVs), it's important to consider the role of an AC Type 2 EV charger. AC Type 2 chargers are commonly used for home and public charging, as they provide an efficient, slower form of charging compared to DC fast chargers. AC chargers use alternating current (AC) to charge the vehicle, with the energy conversion taking place inside the car's onboard charger.
In contrast, DC chargers bypass the vehicle's onboard converter and deliver direct current (DC) power directly to the battery, resulting in much faster charging speeds. If you’re comparing AC and DC charging for your electric vehicle, an AC Type 2 charger is suitable for daily use when faster charging isn't as crucial, while DC fast chargers are the go-to option for quickly replenishing the battery in public stations or long-distance trips. To learn more about the technical differences and when to use each charging type, check out our full article on AC vs. DC charging.
Level 2 EV charging offers a substantial speed advantage over Level 1 chargers, making it a popular choice for home, workplace, and public charging stations. In the United States, Level 2 chargers typically range from 3 to 19.2 kilowatts (kW), while in Europe, they can go up to 22 kW. This power translates to around 10 to 75 miles (16 to 120 kilometers) of range per hour, depending on the charger’s output and the vehicle’s onboard acceptance rate.
Although significantly faster—up to 19 times faster than Level 1 chargers—Level 2 charging still falls short of the speeds achieved by Level 3 DC fast chargers. Level 2 chargers strike a balance between speed and accessibility, allowing EV drivers to charge their vehicles efficiently for daily use without the need for specialized DC infrastructure.
| Charging Level | Output Power Range | Estimated Charge time (40 kWh) |
Estimated Range PerHour of EV Charging | EV Connector Type | User Case |
| Level 2 (L2) | 3 kW -22 kW(19.2kW for USA) | 2 -13 hours | 10-75 miles(16-120km) |
Type 1-J1772 (USAand Japan) Type 2 -Mennekes(Europe)GB/T AC (China) |
Home, workplace, overnight charging, hotelslong stay car parks, and public charging |
The charging time for a Level 2 charger depends on several factors, including the charger’s power output, the electric vehicle’s (EV) onboard charge acceptance rate, and the size of the vehicle’s battery. For instance, an EV with a 40 kWh battery—a typical capacity for many models—can expect different charging times depending on the charger’s output. If the charger provides 7 kW, it would take approximately 5-6 hours to fully charge the battery, while a 19.2 kW charger could reduce that time significantly, charging the same battery in about 2 hours.
These times are estimates and assume that the EV can accept the charger’s full power. Other factors, such as the battery’s current state of charge and ambient temperature, can also impact overall charging time. Level 2 chargers provide a balance between charging speed and accessibility, making them ideal for home or workplace charging.
| Level 2 Charger Output Power | Charge Time (hours) |
| 22 kW | 1.8 |
| 19.2 kW | 2.1 |
| 11 kW | 3.6 |
| 7 kW | 5.7 |
| 3 kW | 13.3 |
When considering a Level 2 EV charger for your home or business, you'll encounter two main types: tethered and untethered chargers. The key difference between the two lies in whether the charging cable is permanently attached to the charger.
Tethered Level 2 chargers come with a built-in, permanently attached charging cable. This type of charger is convenient because the cable is always available, reducing the need to handle or store a separate charging cord. Tethered chargers are often found in home installations where the charging location is fixed, making them a practical solution for everyday use. However, it’s important to ensure that the length of the cable is long enough to reach the charging port of the EV from the installed charger.
Untethered Level 2 chargers, on the other hand, do not come with a built-in cable. Instead, they require you to plug in a separate charging cable that is either supplied with the vehicle or purchased separately. These chargers are generally more flexible and can be used with a variety of vehicles, as the same charger can be compatible with multiple cars, depending on the cable used. Untethered chargers are ideal for situations where multiple vehicles may use the same charging station, offering greater versatility and the option to swap out cables when needed.
Both types of Level 2 chargers offer efficient charging speeds, but the choice between tethered and untethered will depend on factors like convenience, flexibility, and how you plan to use the charging station.
If you're exploring different types of connectors and plugs for Level 2 EV charging, it's important to understand the variations in design and compatibility. Level 2 chargers commonly use the Type 1 and Type 2 connectors, each suited to different regions and vehicle types. Related reading: Different EV Charging Plug Types: A Complete Guide
When considering where to install a Level 2 charger, the ideal locations depend on both convenience and accessibility. Below are some of the best locations for installing Level 2 EV chargers:
A home garage is one of the most convenient places to install a Level 2 charger. It offers easy access to your vehicle and a safe, sheltered environment for charging. Installing a Level 2 charger in your garage ensures that your EV is always fully charged overnight, making it ready to go when you need it.
For those without a garage, a driveway is another ideal location. It's easily accessible and allows for efficient charging while the car is parked outside. A Level 2 charger can be mounted on a wall or installed on a pedestal in the driveway for convenience.
Installing Level 2 chargers at workplaces is a great way to support employees with electric vehicles, providing them with the ability to charge during the workday. This location is beneficial for those who commute long distances or don’t have a home charging setup. Offering EV charging at work can also be an attractive perk for attracting eco-conscious employees.
Public locations, such as shopping malls, parking lots, and transit hubs, are becoming increasingly common spots for Level 2 chargers. These stations cater to people who don’t have access to home charging, allowing them to top off their EVs while shopping, working, or running errands.
For those living in multi-unit dwellings without personal garages, installing Level 2 chargers in shared parking areas can make EV charging more accessible. Property owners and managers can install chargers in communal spaces to accommodate tenants with electric vehicles.
Businesses with fleets of electric vehicles or commercial vehicles, such as delivery companies, can benefit from installing multiple Level 2 chargers. This setup allows for efficient overnight charging and ensures the fleet is ready for daily operations.
Choosing the right installation location for your Level 2 charger depends on your specific needs, whether it’s for personal use, public access, or commercial purposes. Proper installation and placement in convenient, accessible areas help maximize the utility and effectiveness of your charging station.
