3 Best Portable Chargers for Electric Cars: Stay Charged On-The-Go!
Ever felt that little pang of anxiety as your electric vehicle’s battery dwindles, and the nearest charging station seems miles away? You’re not alone! While home chargers and public stations are great, sometimes you need a little extra juice when you’re off the beaten path or visiting friends. That’s where a best portable charger for electric car comes into its own, offering peace of mind and the flexibility to top up wherever there’s an outlet.
These compact power solutions aren’t meant for full, everyday charging, but they’re absolute lifesavers for emergencies, overnight stays at places without dedicated EV chargers, or just extending your range when you need it most. Think of them as your EV’s portable insurance policy!
Let’s dive into some of the top contenders that can keep your electric ride going, no matter where your adventures take you.
1. Lectron Level 1 EV Charger – ETL Certified, 110V, 15…
The Lectron Level 1 EV Charger is a fantastic option for those seeking a reliable and budget-friendly portable charging solution. Designed for standard 110V outlets, it’s perfect for convenient overnight charging at home, work, or while visiting family. It delivers a steady 15 amps, providing an essential 40-50 miles of range during an overnight session, ensuring you wake up with enough charge to get where you need to go without breaking the bank. It’s truly a go-to best portable charger for electric car for basic needs.
Key Features:
– LEVEL 1 CHARGING: Uses standard 110V household outlets (1.65 kW power).
– CONVENIENT OVERNIGHT CHARGING: Adds 40-50 miles overnight.
– J1772 COMPATIBILITY: Works with most EVs including BMW, Ford, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Porsche, Nissan, and Chevy.
– SAFE AND RELIABLE: FCC & ETL certified (UL2594 standard), IP65 rated for dust/water, with multiple safety protections.
– PORTABLE CONVENIENCE: Easy to pack and use on road trips or visits.
Pros:
– Affordable and cost-effective for basic charging needs.
– Uses common household outlets (110V).
– Highly portable and easy to use anywhere.
– Robust safety certifications provide peace of mind.
– Good for topping off or adding range overnight.
Cons:
– Level 1 charging is slower, providing less range per hour compared to Level 2.
– Not ideal for quick top-ups if you’re in a hurry.
User Impressions:
Customers love the Lectron for its simplicity and reliability. Many users highlight its affordability as a major plus, making it accessible for any EV owner looking for an emergency or supplemental charging option. Its compact design also gets high marks for true portability.
2. EVDANCE Level 1&2 EV Charger, Electric Vehicle Portable…
The EVDANCE Level 1&2 EV Charger stands out for its incredible versatility, offering both Level 1 and Level 2 charging capabilities in one portable unit. This means you can plug into a standard 120V outlet for slower emergency charging or use a 240V NEMA 6-20 outlet for significantly faster speeds, adding 10-12 miles per hour. With a generous 25ft cable, it offers exceptional flexibility, making it a strong contender for the title of best portable charger for electric car for those who need adaptable power.
Key Features:
– FLEX LEVEL 1 & 2 CHARGING: NEMA 6-20 plug for 16A 240V (3.68kW) and NEMA 6-20 to 5-15 adapter for 12A 120V (1.44kW).
– CONVENIENT TO USE: 25ft cable for flexible placement, and included bag for portability.
– INDICATION DISPLAYS: LED display shows charging status and errors.
– DURABLE AND SAFE: High-grade rugged materials, FCC/CE certified, IP66 waterproof, UL 94 V-0 fire rating, intelligent chip for monitoring.
– J1772 COMPATIBILITY: Works with most major EVs (Tesla requires J1772 adapter).
Pros:
– Dual-level charging offers great flexibility for different power sources.
– Long 25ft cable provides excellent reach.
– Robust safety features and durable construction.
– Clear LED indicators for charging status.
– Comes with a carrying bag for easy transport.
Cons:
– Not directly compatible with BMW or Tesla without specific adapters.
– Requires a NEMA 6-20 outlet for faster Level 2 charging, which isn’t universally available.
User Impressions:
Reviewers frequently praise the EVDANCE charger for its adaptability between Level 1 and Level 2, calling it a true all-rounder for travel. The long cable is a consistent highlight, providing much-needed convenience in various charging scenarios. Users also appreciate the clear display and solid build quality.
3. Level 1&2 EV Charger, Electric Vehicle Portable Charger (VDLPOWERVP)
The VDLPOWERVP Level 1&2 EV Charger is another excellent choice for EV owners seeking a flexible and efficient portable charging solution. Much like the EVDANCE, it offers both Level 1 (110V, 12A) and Level 2 (240V, 16A) charging options, utilizing a NEMA 6-20 plug with a 5-15 adapter. What truly sets this unit apart is its focus on intelligent charging and safety, ensuring your vehicle charges efficiently and securely. This feature-packed option makes a strong case for being a best portable charger for electric car users prioritizing reliability.
Key Features:
– EFFICIENT CHARGING: NEMA 6-20 Plug (240V, 16A) for Level 2 charging (up to 3.5kW), 4x faster than typical Level 1.
– LEVEL 1 & LEVEL 2 ADAPTER: Includes NEMA 5-15 adapter for standard 110V outlets.
– INTELLIGENT CHARGING-DURABLE AND SAFE: Intelligent chip monitors status, multiple safety protections (lightning, leakage), FCC certified, IP65 waterproof, dustproof.
– EASY CHARGING AND INDICATION DISPLAYS: Simple plug-and-play operation with LED indicators for status and errors.
– PORTABLE DESIGN: 20ft charge cable, appropriate weight for easy trunk storage.
Pros:
– Dual Level 1 and Level 2 capabilities for versatile charging.
– Faster Level 2 charging (up to 3.5kW) compared to many Level 1 chargers.
– Comprehensive safety features provide excellent protection.
– Portable design with a good cable length for most situations.
– Clear LED display for monitoring charging status.
Cons:
– Cable length (20ft) is good but slightly shorter than some competitors.
– Requires a NEMA 6-20 outlet for Level 2 charging.
User Impressions:
Customers value the VDLPOWERVP charger for its solid build and the peace of mind offered by its safety features. The dual-level charging capability is a significant draw, allowing users to choose between emergency top-ups and faster destination charging. Its ease of use and clear indicators also receive positive feedback.
Frequently Asked Questions about Portable EV Chargers
Q1: What exactly is a portable EV charger, and why would I need one?
A: A portable EV charger is a compact device that allows you to charge your electric vehicle using standard electrical outlets, typically at Level 1 (120V household outlets) or sometimes Level 2 (240V outlets). You’d need one for emergencies, if you’re visiting a location without dedicated EV charging infrastructure, or for overnight charging when a dedicated wall charger isn’t available. It’s a great backup to alleviate range anxiety!
Q2: What’s the difference between Level 1 and Level 2 charging for portable units?
A: Level 1 portable chargers plug into a standard 120V household outlet. They’re slow, typically adding 2-5 miles of range per hour, best for overnight charging. Level 2 portable chargers, on the other hand, plug into higher-voltage 240V outlets (like those for clothes dryers or RVs). They charge much faster, often adding 10-25 miles of range per hour, making them more practical for faster top-ups away from home.
Q3: How long does it take to fully charge an electric car with a portable charger?
A: It heavily depends on the charger’s level and your car’s battery size. With a Level 1 portable charger, charging an entire EV battery can take anywhere from 20 to 50+ hours. With a Level 2 portable charger, this time significantly drops to perhaps 6-12 hours for a full charge, depending on the car and the charger’s output. Remember, these are usually for partial charges or overnight top-ups, not full charges from empty.
Q4: Are portable EV chargers safe to use?
A: Yes, reputable portable EV chargers are designed with multiple safety features, including protection against overcurrent, overvoltage, short circuits, and overheating. Look for certifications like UL, ETL, FCC, or CE to ensure they meet safety standards. Always use them with a properly grounded outlet.
Q5: Will a portable charger work with my specific electric vehicle?
A: Most portable EV chargers use the J1772 connector, which is the North American standard for electric vehicles. If you own a Tesla, you’ll typically need a J1772 to Tesla adapter (often included with your Tesla or sold separately) to use these chargers. Always double-check the product’s compatibility list or ask the manufacturer if you’re unsure.
Q6: Can I use a portable EV charger as my primary charging solution at home?
A: While technically possible, it’s generally not recommended. Portable chargers are best suited for occasional use, emergencies, or specific travel needs. For daily home charging, a dedicated Level 2 wall charger is usually more efficient, faster, and often safer due to better electrical installation. Relying solely on a Level 1 portable charger can be very slow and inconvenient for daily driving needs.
Q7: What features should I look for when buying the best portable charger for an electric car?
A: Look for dual Level 1 and Level 2 capability for versatility, a good cable length (20-25ft is ideal), robust safety certifications (UL, ETL, etc.), durable and weather-resistant construction (IP ratings like IP65/IP66), clear indicator lights or displays, and J1772 compatibility. Portability (weight and size) is also key if you plan to carry it frequently.
