Explore the types of EV charging cables and connectors, which cars they work with, how fast they charge an EV, and how to find the right charger with BOXT.

The sale of new diesel and petrol cars is set to be <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/consulting-on-ending-the-sale-of-new-petrol-diesel-and-hybrid-cars-and-vans" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">phased out from 2035</a>, meaning that every driver in the UK will have to switch to electric driving at some point in the not-too-distant future.&nbsp;
Although an EV technically drives the same as a petrol or diesel vehicle, charging is different and something that will take motorists some time to get used to.
One of the biggest discussion topics amongst those considering buying an EV is charging; including how long it takes, how much it costs and how it works.
In this guide, we&rsquo;ll help you to understand the different types of <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/ev-chargers" rel="follow">electric car chargers</a> currently available, as well as the different types of connectors.&nbsp;
<h2>What&rsquo;s the difference between EV chargers and EV connectors?</h2>
Like there are different cables required to charge different mobile phones, there are various EV charging connector types. While it may be difficult to remember all six, the good news is that as the need for more public charging increases, the more standardised the connectors become. At the moment, there are six different types of EV charging connectors.
<h2>The 6 types of EV connectors&nbsp;</h2>
<h3>1. UK 3-pin plug</h3>
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/Gcd8LBqPQ3ucQND3da33" alt="UK 3 pin plug diagram" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
Every electric car comes with a cable designed for domestic plug sockets. However, the 3-pin plug should only be used occasionally or during emergencies as it&rsquo;s much less efficient than using a wallbox or charge point. &nbsp;
In fact, the 3-pin plug offers the slowest charge possible for an EV, with an average rate of just 8 miles of charge per hour.
If you're in a situation where your EV is running out of battery and can&rsquo;t locate a suitable charging station, you could use a UK 3-pin plug point to top up. But, with only an average power rating of 2.3kW, it should not be used as your only connector or for overnight charging, especially when better options exist.&nbsp;
<h3>2. Type 1</h3>
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/pi11VzAQGWUOHsOnov26" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" alt="type 1 ev charger diagram">
Type 1 chargers were one of the original electric car charger types and can still be found on some EV models, like the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV and older versions of the Kia Soul EV and Nissan Leaf.&nbsp;
Featuring a 5-pin design, the type 1 charger runs on alternating current (AC) and can provide between 3-7kWk (12-25 miles of range per hour), so it can be used for fast and slow charging.&nbsp;
<h3>3. Type 2</h3>
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/OG7icIXgSSKAI0QI3C0m" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" alt="Type 2 ev charger diagram">
Type 2 connectors are considered the universal EV connector type and are found on most electric cars. Sometimes referred to as Mennekes (the company that produces this connector type), type 2 connectors have 7 pins and can perform both fast and slow charging as they offer between 7 and 43kW.&nbsp;
Type 2 became the standard EU connector type in 2017 when EU legislation was passed that meant all public electric car charging stations must provide a Type 2 connector.&nbsp;
This change led many European car manufacturers, including Audi, BMW, Renault, Mercedes, VW and Volvo to fit new models with Type 2 charging compatibility.
<h3>4. CHAdeMO</h3>
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/SYIVrdFTyu7VtAuHwMSx" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" alt="CHAdeMO ev charger">
The CHAdeMO (Charge de Move) was one of the first DC charging types available for electric vehicles. It is the Japanese counterpart to the CCS and is often found on Toyota, Subaru, Nissan, and Mitsubishi EVs.
The CHAdeMO is less convenient than the CCS as it requires two separate plugs: one for rapid and one for regular. This means it requires a larger access flap.&nbsp; What is convenient, though, is that all charging stations that feature CCS compatibility also feature a CHAdeMO plug point.
CHAdeMO charging points can currently provide a rapid charging speed of up to 400kW and manufacturers are currently looking at ways to increase this to 900kW.
<h3>5. CCS combo type 1</h3>
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/dx813SCEQ2qbzL4wziPg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" alt="CCS combo type 1 ev charger">
Combined Charging System (CCS) connectors are the most prominent DC (Direct Current) charging type available on tethered rapid chargers. It is most commonly found on European EV models and can also be found on some Teslas.
The CCS connector type comes with nine pins spread across two sections. The upper section features seven pins and will either be a Type 1 fixing or a Type 2 CCS combo fixing, depending on the model of the car. This upper section is also compatible with an AC charger or a home wallbox. The lower section features a 2-pin DC socket.
The current top charging speed of the CCS charging type is 350kW and can charge an electric car with up to 525 miles in just an hour.
<h3>6. CCS combo type 2&nbsp;</h3>
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/aet5wOf2R6JYeHkMBTzL" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" alt="CCS combo type 2 ev charger ">
While the CCS combo type 1 is typically found on North American cars, the CCS combo type 2 is the European equivalent.&nbsp;
The CCS combo type 2 supports both AC and DC charging and provides between 50 and 350kW of energy - making it perfect for rapid charging. &nbsp;
<h2>The 4 types of electric car chargers</h2>
<h3>1. Slow chargers&nbsp;</h3>
Slow chargers, including three-pin plugs, only offer up to 6kW of AC charging and are only recommended for use when no other chargers are available. This is because a slow charger can take up to 12 hours to charge an EV battery.
<h3>2. Fast chargers (level 2)</h3>
Charging at speeds of between 7-22kW an hour in AC, fast chargers are commonly fitted in UK homes and used as public chargers in car parks.&nbsp;
Depending on the output, a fast-charging unit can take between 3 and 8 hours to fill an EV&rsquo;s battery. &nbsp;
<h3>3. Rapid/Ultra-rapid chargers (level 3)</h3>
One of the fastest ways to charge an electric car is with a rapid <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/ev-chargers" rel="follow">EV charger</a>. As the name suggests, these charging systems are super-fast and can refill 80% of an EV battery in around 40 minutes.&nbsp;
Ultra-rapid charge points are even quicker, with the potential to fill 80% of an EV battery in just 20 minutes.
<h3>4. Tesla supercharger</h3>
Unlike other EV car manufacturers, Tesla actually has its own network of over 25,000 charging points in the UK alone.&nbsp;
The ultra-rapid chargers are made specifically for Tesla models and can refill 80% of battery capacity in around 30 minutes.&nbsp;
Offering up to 150kW of power, Tesla&rsquo;s superchargers are typically found at motorway service stations and hotels across the country.&nbsp;
<h2>Types of charging cables</h2>
<h3>Tethered charging cable</h3>
This type of charging plug is permanently connected to the charging unit, so can&rsquo;t be removed. Tethered cables are usually found on rapid and ultra-rapid charging units and resemble a petrol or diesel pump, with the lead attached to a dedicated EV charging unit.
<h3>Untethered charging cable</h3>
Unlike tethered cables, untethered charging cables can be taken anywhere (it&rsquo;s a good idea to keep one in your EV, just in case). These cables must be plugged into your car and a charging point, i.e. at your home or a public charging point.&nbsp;
One of the benefits of untethered charging cables is that it gives you more flexibility, compared to their tethered equivalent, because you can take the cable with you, wherever you&rsquo;re travelling.&nbsp;

We delve into the pros and cons of each charger type, while also assessing which is cheaper, and which is more secure.

Check out our tethered vs. untethered EV charger guide

Want to learn more?

<h2>What sort of EV charger do you need for your car?</h2>
If you&rsquo;re looking for a <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/ev-chargers" rel="follow">home EV charger</a>, then look no further than BOXT. If you&rsquo;re struggling to work out which charger or connector is right for you, our <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/find-an-ev-charger" rel="follow">Find an EV Charger</a> service can help. We&rsquo;ll ask a few questions about your car and where you park it, and then recommend chargers to you. It&rsquo;s that easy.&nbsp;

You'll always be ready to go with an EV charger installed at your home.

<h2>More EV charging advice from BOXT</h2>
To help you find the best solution to your EV charging problems, check out our dedicated <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/guides?category=electric-car-charging" rel="follow">EV charging blogs</a>. Here, you&rsquo;ll find everything you need to know about efficiently charging your car, from whether you can <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/electric-car-charging/guides/can-you-charge-an-electric-car-in-the-rain" rel="follow">charge your EV in the rain</a>, to <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/electric-car-charging/guides/how-much-does-it-cost-to-charge-an-electric-car" rel="follow">how much it costs to charge an electric vehicle</a>, and the <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/electric-car-charging/guides/electric-car-road-tax-what-you-need-to-know" rel="follow">type of road tax</a> you&rsquo;ll need. &nbsp;

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Exploring electric vehicle (EV) charger types: a comprehensive guide

If you're an electric car owner or are thinking of becoming one, you'll most likely be considering installing an EV charger at your home. Home charging is much more convenient than relying on public charging points, but it can be hard to decide which type of charger to choose. There ...

If you're an electric car owner or are thinking of becoming one, you'll most likely be considering installing an <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/ev-chargers">EV charger</a> at your home.&nbsp;
Home charging is much more convenient than relying on public charging points, but it can be hard to decide which type of charger to choose.
There are a wide variety of home chargers available depending on what size, style or shape you prefer. But, before you consider any of this, you'll need to decide if you want to install a tethered or untethered charger.
They both fulfil the same purpose of charging your car, but there are different pros and cons to each type of charger.
Here at BOXT, we've laid out a detailed guide on the two different types of home EV chargers to help you make an informed decision about which one is best for you.
<h2><span data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Tethered vs untethered EV charger: what's the difference?&quot;}" data-sheets-userformat="{&quot;2&quot;:6717,&quot;3&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:0},&quot;5&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:[{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;5&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0}},{&quot;1&quot;:0,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;3&quot;:3},{&quot;1&quot;:1,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;4&quot;:1}]},&quot;6&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:[{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;5&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0}},{&quot;1&quot;:0,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;3&quot;:3},{&quot;1&quot;:1,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;4&quot;:1}]},&quot;7&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:[{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;5&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0}},{&quot;1&quot;:0,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;3&quot;:3},{&quot;1&quot;:1,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;4&quot;:1}]},&quot;8&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:[{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;5&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0}},{&quot;1&quot;:0,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;3&quot;:3},{&quot;1&quot;:1,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;4&quot;:1}]},&quot;12&quot;:0,&quot;14&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:2964813},&quot;15&quot;:&quot;Arial&quot;}">Tethered vs untethered EV charger: what's the difference?</h2>
Essentially, the main difference between tethered and untethered EV chargers is the charging cable. Whereas tethered chargers have a fixed cable attached that can't be removed, untethered chargers have a detachable cable.
<h2><span data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Tethered EV charger overview&quot;}" data-sheets-userformat="{&quot;2&quot;:6717,&quot;3&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:0},&quot;5&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:[{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;5&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0}},{&quot;1&quot;:0,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;3&quot;:3},{&quot;1&quot;:1,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;4&quot;:1}]},&quot;6&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:[{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;5&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0}},{&quot;1&quot;:0,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;3&quot;:3},{&quot;1&quot;:1,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;4&quot;:1}]},&quot;7&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:[{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;5&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0}},{&quot;1&quot;:0,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;3&quot;:3},{&quot;1&quot;:1,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;4&quot;:1}]},&quot;8&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:[{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;5&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0}},{&quot;1&quot;:0,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;3&quot;:3},{&quot;1&quot;:1,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;4&quot;:1}]},&quot;12&quot;:0,&quot;14&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:2964813},&quot;15&quot;:&quot;Arial&quot;}">Tethered EV charger overview</h2>
Most electric car owners choose to buy tethered chargers, and they're the most common type of home EV charger that you'll see. They do have some benefits when compared to untethered chargers, but also several drawbacks.
The tethered charger is probably the most convenient of the two options as it requires minimal effort when charging your electric car.
You simply unravel the cable from the charging unit and insert it into the charging point of your vehicle. It's similar to the way you would fill up the tank of a vehicle at a petrol pump. The charging cable is also included in the overall price of the charging unit.
As the charging cable is permanently attached to the charging unit, it means that you'll be limited to the length of cable that the manufacturer provides.
Most manufacturers provide 5-metre cables as standard, but they can vary between 2-10 metres. So, before buying a tethered charger, it's important to check what length of cable you'll be getting. If you require a longer cable, some providers will allow you to upgrade at an extra cost.
One of the more restrictive elements of a tethered unit is that the attached charging cable will have only one of two connection types, Type 1 or Type 2. Type 2 is now the standard connection type for all new electric vehicles, and it's only older EVs, such as the Citroen C-Zero, that still use the Type 1.
This is something to bear in mind if you're purchasing a tethered EV charger, as you'll need to make sure you choose the correct charging type for your vehicle.
Remember that if you have an older electric car but you're planning to buy a new one in the future, then you would have to change your Type 1 charging unit for a Type 2.
<h3>Tethered charger pros:</h3>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">The tethered cable will be included in the overall price of the unit.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Tethered EV chargers are convenient as you simply uncoil the attached cable and plug it into your vehicle.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">The cable is permanently attached, meaning it is much less likely to be stolen than an untethered cable.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Tethered charger cons:</h3>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">You'll be limited to the length of cable supplied by the manufacturer. If you need a charging cable with more length, this will come at an extra cost.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">A tethered charger is restricted to either Type 1 or Type 2 charging connections.</li>
</ul>
<h2><span data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Untethered EV charger overview&quot;}" data-sheets-userformat="{&quot;2&quot;:6717,&quot;3&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:0},&quot;5&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:[{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;5&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0}},{&quot;1&quot;:0,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;3&quot;:3},{&quot;1&quot;:1,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;4&quot;:1}]},&quot;6&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:[{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;5&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0}},{&quot;1&quot;:0,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;3&quot;:3},{&quot;1&quot;:1,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;4&quot;:1}]},&quot;7&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:[{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;5&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0}},{&quot;1&quot;:0,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;3&quot;:3},{&quot;1&quot;:1,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;4&quot;:1}]},&quot;8&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:[{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;5&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0}},{&quot;1&quot;:0,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;3&quot;:3},{&quot;1&quot;:1,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;4&quot;:1}]},&quot;12&quot;:0,&quot;14&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:2964813},&quot;15&quot;:&quot;Arial&quot;}">Untethered EV charger overview</h2>
An untethered EV charger doesn't have a charging cable permanently attached to it, and provides greater flexibility than a tethered charger. Some electric cars come with their own charging cable, but most of the time, you'll need to buy a charging cable separately when you purchase an untethered unit.
As the cable is detachable, you can take it with you when you travel. This means you can use other public EV chargers whilst you're out on the road, as long as they have the right connection type for your electric car.
Also, if any visitors to your home need to charge their electric car, they can simply plug in their own charging cable to your home EV charger.
Although they're more flexible, they are also less convenient than tethered chargers, as each time you charge, you'll have to plug one end of the cable into the EV charging unit and the other end into your vehicle. You'll also have to disconnect each end of the cable when you've finished charging.
One of the big differences between tethered and untethered chargers is that untethered charging units are more future-proof. If, at some point, you need a longer cable or a different type of charging connection, you can replace the cable without having to pay for a whole new charging unit.
Another benefit of an untethered charger is that it can often present a more pleasing aesthetic than a tethered EV charger. When it's not in use, you can untether the cable from the socket and store it somewhere out of the way.
This is ideal if you want to avoid having any cables hanging down from the side of your home. All that will be visible when the cable is stored away is the EV charger, which can be quite discreet.
There are tethered chargers available that come equipped with cable holders so that the charging cable can be stored neatly away when not in use. This is not standard, though, and often these tethered chargers are more expensive than the more basic units.
If you're concerned with how your unit will look once it's installed in your home, it's usually best to opt for an untethered EV charger.
<h3>Untethered charger pros:</h3>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">If you need a different connection type or a longer cable, you can buy a new cable without having to pay to replace the entire charging unit.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">The untethered cable can be stored away so that the unit looks tidier.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">It gives you more flexibility as you can take the untethered charging cable with you when you travel.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Untethered charger cons:</h3>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Usually, the cable must be bought separately from the untethered charger.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">You have to attach the cable before charging and detach it after charging, meaning it is less convenient than a tethered charger.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Depending on where you store the cable when it's detached, you may have to clean it regularly to avoid bringing any dirt inside.</li>
</ul>

You'll always be ready to go with a fast car charger installed at your home.

<h2><span data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Which is more expensive, tethered or untethered?&quot;}" data-sheets-userformat="{&quot;2&quot;:6717,&quot;3&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:0},&quot;5&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:[{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;5&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0}},{&quot;1&quot;:0,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;3&quot;:3},{&quot;1&quot;:1,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;4&quot;:1}]},&quot;6&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:[{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;5&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0}},{&quot;1&quot;:0,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;3&quot;:3},{&quot;1&quot;:1,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;4&quot;:1}]},&quot;7&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:[{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;5&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0}},{&quot;1&quot;:0,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;3&quot;:3},{&quot;1&quot;:1,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;4&quot;:1}]},&quot;8&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:[{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;5&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0}},{&quot;1&quot;:0,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;3&quot;:3},{&quot;1&quot;:1,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;4&quot;:1}]},&quot;12&quot;:0,&quot;14&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:2964813},&quot;15&quot;:&quot;Arial&quot;}">Which is more expensive, tethered or untethered?</h2>
One of the main considerations electric vehicle owners have when deciding whether to choose a tethered or untethered charger is which one will be more cost-efficient.
Tethered chargers tend to be more expensive because the cost of the unit includes the price of the cable. Untethered chargers are usually less expensive to buy at first because you are only paying for the unit itself.
However, when you factor in the cost of buying the cable separately, the price difference may not be very much in the end.
If you have ordered an electric vehicle, make sure that you check whether it will come with its own charging cable. If this is the case, then you'll only need to pay for the unit itself, unless you want to buy a spare cable.
<h2><span data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Tethered or untethered: which is more secure?&quot;}" data-sheets-userformat="{&quot;2&quot;:6717,&quot;3&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:0},&quot;5&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:[{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;5&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0}},{&quot;1&quot;:0,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;3&quot;:3},{&quot;1&quot;:1,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;4&quot;:1}]},&quot;6&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:[{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;5&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0}},{&quot;1&quot;:0,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;3&quot;:3},{&quot;1&quot;:1,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;4&quot;:1}]},&quot;7&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:[{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;5&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0}},{&quot;1&quot;:0,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;3&quot;:3},{&quot;1&quot;:1,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;4&quot;:1}]},&quot;8&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:[{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;5&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0}},{&quot;1&quot;:0,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;3&quot;:3},{&quot;1&quot;:1,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;4&quot;:1}]},&quot;12&quot;:0,&quot;14&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:2964813},&quot;15&quot;:&quot;Arial&quot;}">Tethered or untethered: which is more secure?</h2>
As the cable for a tethered charger is permanently attached to the unit, it can't be removed, providing good theft protection. The only way to remove the cable would be to sever it or to completely remove the unit from the wall, which in both cases would make the charger unusable.
With untethered chargers, the cable can be detached and so is at a higher risk of theft. Many untethered chargers come with technology that provides added security, such as pin protection or cable locking. But, the best way to keep the cable safe is to detach it and store it out of sight when not in use.
<h2>Final thoughts</h2>
Both untethered and tethered chargers have benefits and costs that you need to carefully consider when deciding which type of unit to have installed at your home.
It's not the easiest decision to make, but it's best to get the most information possible beforehand, as if you choose one that's not right for you, then replacing it can be pretty costly.
Whilst tethered units tend to be more convenient for home charging, untethered units provide much more flexibility, and their detachable cables are not just limited to being used at home.
Ultimately, the charger that will suit you best depends on your own needs and how you intend to use it.

Tethered vs untethered EV chargers: what's the difference & which is best?

Everything you need to know about charging electric cars and the different types of electric car chargers available.

The UK government has implemented strong new laws to phase out the sale of diesel and petrol cars by 2035. This is an attempt to reduce the emissions caused by fossil fuel-burning cars.
Though it will take considerably longer to phase out these vehicles completely, many consumers are considering the alternative option: electric cars.
Electric car charging points are becoming more common across the UK, and in England, any house built after June 15th 2022, must have a charging point installed.
Investing in installing an <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/ev-chargers" rel="follow">EV charger</a> for older homes is something that people are considering. It offers a convenient way to charge an electric vehicle and can even add value to a home.
This article will look at the different chargers and charging cables available on the market, explaining their benefits to make it easier for you to decide.
<h2>Are all EV Chargers Universal?</h2>
Most cars are compatible with Level 1 or Level 2 charging, which are the most common speeds found on public charging stations. Level 3 or DC charging is not as common, and the Tesla Supercharger is only compatible with Teslas.
<h2>How Will I Know What Charger to Use?</h2>
Your car manual will let you know compatible chargers that you can use on your car. To give you a better idea of what is currently on the market, we have broken down the most popular electric car plug types, cable types, and the levels of speed you will be able to charge at.
<h2>Electric Car Plug Types</h2>
Drivers who have never used an electric vehicle might be puzzled by the charging system. The nozzles for diesel and petrol fit all cars, so fueling is always a case of taking the correct pump.
Thankfully, electric vehicle charging is not too challenging to get used to, and the following electric car plug types are the most common.
<h3>Type-1</h3>
The Type-1 car plug uses a 5-pin connector and is most commonly found in North America. The UK favours Type-2 plugs, but some older electric vehicles might use this connector.
They are designed for 3 and 7 kW chargers, which are only compatible with Level-1 and Level-2 AC chargers.
To help with compatibility, electric cars that operate with this system will typically have adapters that allow them to be connected to untethered chargers.
<h3>Type 2</h3>
You are far more likely to come across a Type-2 plug in the UK or Europe because EU legislation requires the 7-pin plug to be fitted as standard.
The Type-2 plug offers several benefits over the Type-1, including handling the higher energy output of a Level-3 charger. Though it can take up to 22kW, it is important that you check your vehicle can accept this.
The Type-2 plug also has a locking mechanism meaning someone can't disconnect it if you leave it to charge.
<h3>Combination plug</h3>
CCS (Combined Charging System) plugs are 2-pin plugs that can connect with both DC sockets for super-fast charging or home AC chargers. You will be able to use the two pins in the top half of your home charger to deliver electricity to your car battery.
<h3>CHAdeMO</h3>
The "Charge de Move" plug is designed for rapid charging from DC chargers.
The main difference from the CCS is that there are two sockets on the CHAdeMO car. In the grand scheme of things, this only changes the car's appearance by having a slightly larger access flap.
It also means you can use Type-1 or Type-2 plugs in the other socket. This option isn't as popular in Europe, but there is one other thing that makes it an interesting choice.
This plug type allows electricity to be transferred to and from the battery, meaning you could use electricity stored in the car to power your home.
<h3>Domestic socket</h3>
Though it is not the quickest or most efficient way to charge an electric car, using a domestic socket is possible.
Using either a Type-1 or Type-2 transformer box can be a great way to charge your car in an emergency. However, this is not recommended for continual charging as it can damage your home's wiring.
<h3>CEE</h3>
The CEE plug was more popular with early model electric cars and is the same plug system used in campsites to power campervans and caravans.
You can install the CEE plug at your home for slow charging of 3kW. Alternatively, it can be used with a three-phase industrial standard supply to deliver fast charging up to 22kW.
<h3>Tesla Supercharger</h3>
If you aren't going to invest in a Tesla, this option won't be of much use to you at present. This is because the Tesla Supercharger only works on Tesla vehicles. However, there are discussions as to whether their chargers will be made compatible with other electric vehicle use.
<h2>Electric Car Charging Cable Types</h2>
Your electric car should come with a charging cable. The cable type, along with the vehicle, will determine what kind of charger you can get.
It is also possible to buy longer cables or extensions, allowing you to easily reach a charger without parking awkwardly.
<h3>Mode-2</h3>
The Mode-2 charging cable will typically come with the Type 2 connector in the UK and a 3-pin plug at the other end. This is a basic cable that will allow slow charging.
<h3>Mode-3</h3>
The Mode-3 charging cable will give you access to power from untethered charging points.
<h2>Electric Car Charging Speeds</h2>
The speed your car charges at won&rsquo;t necessarily always be quick. If you have an electric car charger installed at your home and plug the car in overnight to make the most of lower tariffs, you won't mind if it takes hours to get a full charge.
Alternatively, if you find yourself at an EV charging station and are running late for work or an appointment, the last thing you want is to have a slow charge.
The following levels will dictate the speed your car will charge at.
<h3>Level-1</h3>
Level-1 chargers take the longest time to charge an electric car fully. Depending on the vehicle and its battery, this can take between 8 and 12 hours.
They use a 120-volt plug that works on an AC system and can deliver between 1.4 and 3kW. This can be used in a standard domestic outlet and can be useful for people on a budget that want to charge at home.
<h3>Level-2</h3>
Level-2 charging offers 240 volts using an AC system and can offer between 7kW and 22kW. This is more commonly used by electric vehicle owners that are interested in installing electric car charging stations in their homes.
The faster-charging speed will take anywhere between one and eleven hours to fully charge an electric car, depending on the make, model, and battery size.
Overnight charging is advisable for this level to enjoy cheaper electricity rates and ensure you have a full battery by the morning.
<h3>Level-3</h3>
Level-3 charging offers drivers the option to use rapid chargers that can deliver a full charge in an incredible time. In some cases, that can be between 20 minutes and 1 hour for a full charge.
DC fast charging is not as common as Level-1 or Level-2, but it can be found in some city centres.
<h2>Find Your EV Charger with BOXT Today</h2>
Knowing a bit more about electric car plugs and charging systems before investing is advisable, but you don't need to worry about being an expert to<a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/find-an-ev-charger/674c6176-6b48-40f2-ae10-fa560210d46c"> find an EV charger</a> with BOXT.
By answering a few quick questions online and speaking with our specialist team of experts on the phone or via Live Chat, we will be able to find the perfect electric car charger to suit your home and vehicle.
All of our<a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/ev-chargers"> electric vehicle charge points</a> use smart technology to let you monitor your electricity use and save money. Installations are completed by fully qualified, experienced local electricians, and you will receive a fixed price, taking away the worry of hidden costs or surprises.

<h2>Final Thoughts</h2>
If you invest in an electric car, it is worth doing a little bit of research to understand better how the car works and will be charged. Doing so will make it easier if you decide to install an <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/ev-chargers" rel="follow">electric car charger</a> at your home.
Charging stations are becoming more common as shopping centres, supermarkets, public car parks, and city centres see them as a great way to attract potential customers. However, enjoying the convenience of being able to charge your car overnight offers car owners peace of mind.
Choosing BOXT as your installer means you are guaranteed excellent workmanship, high-quality products, and prompt, friendly service. If you are interested in installing a charger for electric vehicles at your home, get in touch today for a <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/find-an-ev-charger">free, no-obligation, fixed-price quote</a>.

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