10 Things to Consider When Buying Portable Ev Charger
Portable EV Charger: The Complete Buyer's Guide - Duevolt
Electric vehicle adoption worldwide keeps going upwards. In fact, according to the IEA Report, global electric car sales exceeded 17 million in , meaning over 20% of new cars sold worldwide were electric. With such growth comes a demand for flexible, practical charging options. And frankly speaking, not everyone can install a permanent wall unit at home, plus, public charging stations are not always convenient.
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For these reasons, portable electric car charger exist. They give you freedom to charge almost anywhere with just an outlet, be it at home, on a road trip, or in a pinch.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you’ll need to know before buying one. So let’s get straight into it…
1. What is a Portable EV Charger?
In laymen’s terms, a portable EV charger is a plug-in device that connects to a standard outlet. Instead of mounting permanently on a garage wall, you can take it with you. It works exactly like an appliance, plug it in, connect it to your car, and charging begins.
Portable chargers usually support:
● Level 1 charging (120V) – Slow, but works from any household outlet. Adds approximately 3–5 miles of range per hour.
● Level 2 charging (240V) – Faster, when used with outlets, for instance, NEMA 14-50 or 6-50. Adds roughly about 20–35 miles of range per hour.
The difference between portable and wall-mounted units boils down to flexibility. Wall chargers are faster and permanent. Portable chargers are slower, however, very practical for renters, travelers, or anybody who wants a backup option.
2. Main features to Look for When Buying
2.1 Amperage and Power Output
Amperage directly affects charging speed. Typical portable chargers range from:
● 16A – Adds approx 10–12 miles per hour at 240V.
● 32A – Adds about 20–25 miles per hour.
● 40A – Adds up to 35 miles per hour.
Most newer EV models in the United States support at least 32A on Level 2 and anything beyond 40A is rare in portable designs.
2.2 Connector Types
● J – The universal plug for all non-Tesla EVs in America.
● NACS (Tesla plug) – Tesla’s North American Charging Standard, adopted by Ford, GM, and more in . By , most new EVs will ship with NACS.
Many portable chargers include adapters so you can charge Teslas and non-Teslas with one unit.
2.3 Plug Types
The charger side plugs into a wall outlet. Options include:
● NEMA 5-15: Standard household 120V outlet. Slowest, but always available.
● NEMA 14-50: The most popular 240V outlet. Often used for RVs or electric stoves. Provides faster Level 2 speeds.
● NEMA 6-50: Common in garages or workshops. Another 240V option.
2.4 Adjustable Current Settings
This feature is a must-have. It lets you reduce the current draw if your wiring can not handle full power. Let’s say you have a 32A portable charger plugged into a garage outlet wired for 30A, it will certainly trip the breaker. However, with the adjustable current settings, you can avoid such mishaps by simply dialing the charger down to 24A. Hence, you stay within safe limits and avoid interruptions.
2.5 Smart Features
Some premium chargers now include WiFi or Bluetooth. You can schedule charging, view energy usage, and track costs through an app. While most portable chargers stick to the basics, Duevolt’s “M” series models add a delay charging function, which lets you start charging later at night when electricity rates are often cheaper.
2.6 Safety Considerations
EV chargers move a lot of power, and safety is definitely non-negotiable. Here are some nuts and bolts you should keep in mind:
● Certification – Always check for UL or ETL listing. These marks confirm the charger meets U.S. electrical safety standards.
● Built-in protections – Overcurrent, overheating, surge protection, and ground fault detection.
● Water and dust resistance – Look for IP ratings like IP65 if you plan outdoor use.
● Proper outlet use – Extension cords are discouraged for EV charging. If absolutely necessary, use heavy-duty cords rated for high amperage.
A reliable charger means it should be safe for you, your vehicle, and for the electrical system as well.
3. Compatibility With Your EV
Obviously, a charger must be compatible with the vehicle. And fortunately, most portable chargers cover that very well. However, still to avoid any issues, here are a few details that must match:
● All non-Tesla EVs – Use J plugs. Any portable charger sold in the U.S. will support this.
● Tesla drivers – Need either a charger with NACS plug or a J-to-NACS adapter. Tesla includes one with new cars.
● Onboard charger limits – Every EV has an onboard charger that controls intake power. For example, some EVs max out at 32A. Buying a 40A portable charger would not charge faster in such a case.
Some examples for :
● Tesla Model Y – Supports up to 48A with NACS. Portable chargers will cap at 40A.
● Ford F-150 Lightning – Handles 32A–40A on Level 2, ideal with a 14-50 outlet.
● Chevy Blazer EV – Supports 11.5 kW AC charging. Works well with a 40A portable unit.
● Hyundai Ioniq 6 – 10.9 kW onboard charger. Again, a 32A–40A portable charger is optimal.
4. When a Portable Charger Makes Sense?
A portable EV charging station may not be for everybody. However, in most cases, it’s a smart buy.
Best suited for:
● Renters who can not install permanent wall units.
● Road trippers who want a backup.
● Drivers without garages, who rely on outdoor outlets.
● Second-car households where one EV does not need daily fast charging.
Less ideal for:
● Families with two or more EVs require daily charging.
● Owners who drive over 200 miles a day and need high-speed charging at home.
All things considered, we suggest that anyone who drives an electric vehicle, a Portable Charger is a must-have. You may ask why? Well, because it’s always smart to have a backup. You never know when you may need it.
5. Duevolt’s Portable EV Charger Catalog
Portable EV chargers generally fall into three practical tiers. Duevolt focuses on only 40A, Level 2 portable units with dual‑voltage flexibility and adjustable current.
Value Picks (~$199–$220)
Simple, capable, and travel-friendly. Ideal if you want Level 2 speed without extra bells and whistles.
● J: DUEVOLT Level 1 & 2 Portable EV Charger, 16–40A, dual NEMA 5‑15 and 14‑50 — up to 9.6 kW, adjustable current, and Level 1 or Level 2 from the same unit.
● Tesla NACS: DUEVOLT Level 1 & 2 Tesla Portable EV Charger, 16–40A, dual NEMA 5‑15 and 14‑50 – native NACS plug, no adapter needed, dual‑voltage convenience.
Core Picks (~$229)
Adds quality‑of‑life features for daily use, like delay charging to target off‑peak rates.
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● J: DUEVOLT Level 2 Portable EV Charger, 16–40A, NEMA 14‑50, delay charging – up to 9.6 kW with adjustable current and scheduling.
Higher‑Spec Portable (~$249)
Best fit if you want native NACS plus scheduling for a daily portable setup.
● Tesla NACS: DUEVOLT Level 2 Tesla Portable EV Charger, 16–40A, NEMA 14‑50, delay charging – native NACS, up to 9.6 kW, adjustable current, and delay start.
Quick notes for readers
● All listed units are adjustable 16–40A, so you can dial down current on tighter circuits and avoid nuisance trips.
● Dual‑voltage flexibility is standard in the “Value” picks above, letting you charge from 120V or 240V with the included plugs.
6. Installation and Setup Basics
- Choose the right outlet: Most portable EV charging stations, including Level 2 units, use NEMA 14-50. If you don’t have one, call an electrician.
- Check breaker size: A 40A charger requires a 50A circuit breaker for safety.
- Plug in: Connect the charger to the outlet, then plug into the car’s port.
- Set amperage if adjustable: Match to your outlet and breaker rating.
- Monitor the first few charges: Assure no breakers trip or outlets overheat.
When in doubt, always involve a licensed electrician.
7. Maintenance and Care
Portable chargers last years if treated properly.
● Storage: Coil cables loosely, avoid sharp bends.
● Keep dry: Even waterproof chargers should be stored indoors when not in use.
● Clean regularly: Wipe plugs and handles with a dry cloth.
● Inspect: Check for frayed cables, cracked plugs, or overheating signs.
● Update: If your charger has smart features, install firmware updates.
8. Final Thoughts
As automotive companies moving towards fully electric, the old uncertainty about charging standards is fading away. Portable car charger have become a must-have for anyone driving an EV today.
We hope this guide has given you a clearer view of what matters most and helped you narrow down which charger makes sense for your needs.
We’ve laid out the fundamentals every portable charger should include, from amperage to connectors to safety.
Choosing the Best Portable EV Charger: Recommendations and Tips
Electric vehicles (EVs) have taken center stage as more people seek eco-friendly, cost-effective travel methods. With the increasing number of EV owners, portable EV chargers are more than just a convenience - they’re necessary for those who want flexibility on the road.
In this blog, we’ll explore the best portable EV chargers available in the USA and what makes them the right choice for your EV needs.
Why Portable EV Chargers Matter for EV Owners
Convenience and Flexibility
Portable EV chargers allow you to charge your vehicle anywhere, whether at home, at a friend’s house, or on a long road trip. While public charging stations are expanding, they’re not always reliable or available when needed. With a portable charger, you can ensure your vehicle is always powered up, no matter where you are.
Additionally, portable EV chargers save you the stress of searching for a charging station, giving you more freedom and flexibility. Whether you’re taking a long trip or need an emergency backup, having a charger in your trunk makes all the difference.
Cost Savings
Aside from convenience, portable chargers can help you save on costs. You avoid higher prices at public charging stations by charging at home during off-peak hours. Some chargers even have smart scheduling features to help you take advantage of these lower rates.
What to Look for in the Best Portable EV Charger
Choosing the correct portable EV charger for your vehicle requires looking into a few key features.
Let’s break down the essential aspects:
- Charging Speed and Power Output: First, check the charging speed. Charging speed is measured in kilowatts (kW) and determines how quickly your vehicle will charge. Chargers like the JuiceBox offer speeds between 7.2 kW and 11 kW, which is ideal for most EVs. On the other hand, a faster charger like the J+ Booster 2 can deliver up to 22 kW, reducing your charging time significantly.
- Portability and Weight: Since we’re talking about portable chargers, you’ll want one that’s easy to carry. Some chargers weigh around 10 pounds, while others, like the Lectron, are even lighter - making them perfect for road trips.
- Smart Features: Many portable chargers now have smart features such as app control and Wi-Fi connectivity. These features allow you to schedule charging sessions, monitor progress, and control the charger remotely. Chargers like the ChargePoint HomeFlex and Wallbox Pulsar Plus offer smart features for ease of use.
- Safety Features: Safety is another crucial factor. Look for chargers with overcurrent, overvoltage, and overheating protection. Water resistance is essential if you plan to use the charger outdoors. The J+ Booster 2, for instance, is rated IP67 for water and dust resistance, ensuring that it’s durable enough to withstand the elements.
Also Read: Powering the Future: Your Guide to the EV Charging Box for Home & Work
Top 5 Portable EV Chargers in the USA for
Let’s examine some of the best portable EV chargers available in the USA. These chargers have been selected based on their charging speed, portability, safety features, and customer satisfaction.
- JuiceBox Portable Level 2 Chargersome text
- Charging Speed: 7.2–11 kW
- Key Features: Wi-Fi enabled, weatherproof, durable build.
- Pros: Fast charging, smart features, and high durability.
- Cons: Bulkier than some competitors.
The JuiceBox is perfect if you want a fast and reliable charger that you can use at home and on the go. It’s highly durable, and the app allows you to monitor your charging sessions remotely.
- Grizzl-E Portable Level 2 Chargersome text
- Charging Speed: 7.6–10 kW
- Key Features: Compact design, excellent performance in extreme temperatures.
- Pros: Works in extreme conditions and Wi-Fi enabled.
- Cons: Slower charging than some high-end models.
The Grizzl-E is designed for durability and works well even in extreme temperatures, making it an excellent choice for those who travel in varied climates.
- Tesla Wall Connectorsome text
- Charging Speed: 9.6–11.5 kW
- Key Features: Optimized for Tesla vehicles, fast charging.
- Pros: Best for Tesla owners, up to 44 miles per hour of range.
- Cons: Expensive and requires additional wiring.
Tesla owners can benefit significantly from the Tesla Wall Connector, which is designed to charge their vehicles quickly and efficiently.
- J+ Booster 2some text
- Charging Speed: 11–22 kW
- Key Features: IP67 water resistance, impact-proof design, works with multiple EV types.
- Pros: Fast charging, weather-resistant, highly portable.
- Cons: Expensive compared to other models.
The J+ Booster 2 stands out for its rugged design and fast charging capabilities, making it perfect for outdoor use and extreme conditions.
- Lectron Portable EV Chargersome text
- Charging Speed: 7.0–9.6 kW
- Key Features: Dual-port (Level 1 and 2), lightweight.
- Pros: Easy to carry, dual compatibility (Level 1 and 2).
- Cons: Slower than more expensive options.
If you’re looking for something lightweight and portable, the Lectron is an excellent option. It’s versatile enough for both Level 1 and Level 2 charging.
Key Considerations Before You Buy
- Compatibility: Before purchasing any portable EV charger, ensure it’s compatible with your vehicle. Most chargers support the standard J connector, but if you own a Tesla, you’ll need a specific adapter.
- Charging Needs: Consider how often you’ll need to use your charger. If you use it daily, you might want to invest in a more powerful charger like the J+ Booster 2. However, if you’re just looking for something as a backup or for occasional use, a Lectron or Mustart might suit you better.
- Budget: Prices for portable chargers range from $250 to over $1,000. It’s crucial to weigh the cost against the features you need. If you want fast charging and smart features, you might have to spend more, but there are budget options that still offer reliable performance.
Also Read: EV Chargers and Accessories - Cadillac Parts
Conclusion
Investing in the best portable EV charger will make your EV experience much smoother, whether traveling cross-country or just wanting the convenience of charging at home. With various options on the market, there's a portable charger for every need, from fast-charging solutions like the J+ Booster 2 to more affordable, lightweight options like the Lectron. Ultimately, your decision will depend on your budget, charging needs, and vehicle compatibility.
Whether you're a seasoned EV driver or new to the world of electric vehicles, finding a reliable portable charger to keep your car powered wherever you go is essential.
For more information on energy-saving solutions and EV charging technologies, visit Pulse Energy - a leading provider of sustainable energy solutions that aim to make EV charging efficient and affordable for everyone.
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