Level 1 vs Level 2 EV Chargers: Which Makes Sense for You?

The Level 1 versus Level 2 decision trips up a lot of new EV owners. I spent way too long researching this before buying my first charger, so here’s what I wish someone had told me upfront.

Level 1: The Free Option That Might Work

Level 1 chargers plug into standard household outlets — the same ones you use for lamps and phone chargers. Most EVs come with one in the trunk.

The charging speed is slow. We’re talking 3-5 miles of range added per hour. That means overnight charging gets you maybe 30-40 miles of range. For some people, this is enough.

If you drive under 40 miles daily and can charge every night, Level 1 works. No installation cost. No electrician. Just plug into an existing outlet. That’s what makes Level 1 endearing to EV owners on a budget — it’s genuinely free to set up.

The downside is obvious: if you forget to plug in one night or drive more than usual, you’re in trouble. There’s no catching up quickly.

Level 2: Faster But Costs Money

Level 2 chargers need 240-volt outlets, like what your dryer uses. Professional installation is required. But the speed difference is substantial: 20-30 miles of range per hour.

Most EVs go from empty to full overnight with Level 2. You stop thinking about charging entirely — just plug in when you get home and it handles itself.

Smart features often come with Level 2 chargers: WiFi connectivity, scheduling for off-peak electricity rates, energy monitoring, phone apps. I thought this was gimmicky until I realized I was charging during expensive peak hours and overpaying for electricity.

Cost is real though. Charger: $500-1,500. Installation: $500-2,000. You’re looking at $1,000-3,500 total depending on your home’s electrical situation.

How to Actually Decide

Look at your daily driving. Under 40 miles daily with consistent overnight charging? Level 1 might work. More than that? Level 2 is probably necessary.

Consider your budget. If $1,500-3,000 is prohibitive right now, start with Level 1. You can always upgrade later.

Check your electrical panel. Level 2 needs spare capacity for a 40-50 amp circuit. If your panel is full, you’re looking at an upgrade before the charger, which adds significant cost.

Think about your vehicle. Full battery EVs with 200+ mile range generally need Level 2 to make overnight charging practical. Plug-in hybrids with 30-50 mile electric range often work fine with Level 1.

Plan for the future. Thinking about upgrading to a longer-range EV later? Installing Level 2 now saves doing electrical work twice.

My Recommendation

Try Level 1 for a month before investing in Level 2. You’ll quickly learn whether it meets your needs or drives you crazy. The free trial period is valuable data.

If Level 1 frustrates you within the first few weeks, install Level 2 and don’t look back. The convenience is worth the cost for most EV owners who drive regularly.