Welcome to our latest blog where we delve into the UK’s best EV home chargers, meticulously curated by industry expert David Moullenoux. With the electric vehicle market rapidly expanding, the demand for efficient and reliable home charging solutions is at an all-time high. Recognizing this, many homeowners are turning to professional EV charger installers to ensure they have the best setup to meet their needs.
In this comprehensive guide, David Moullenoux, known for his extensive knowledge and experience in the field, shares his top picks for EV home chargers currently dominating the UK market. Whether you’re a new EV owner or looking to upgrade your current charging setup, this list promises to provide valuable insights into making the right choice for your electric vehicle charging needs.
Wallbox Pulsar Plus
The Wallbox Pulsar Plus has emerged as one of the more popular EV chargers in the market, known for its compact design and smart features. Here’s an in-depth look at its pros and cons:
Pros:
- Compact Size: One of the standout features of the Wallbox Pulsar Plus is its compact size. It’s unobtrusive and can fit easily in most home garages or driveways without taking up much space
- Smart Charging Features: This charger is equipped with a range of smart features, including the ability to schedule charging sessions via its app. This is particularly useful for taking advantage of off-peak electricity tariffs.
- High Charging Speed: The Pulsar Plus offers a high charging speed (up to 22 kW), which is ideal for EV owners looking to quickly charge their vehicles at home.
- Integration with Home Energy Systems: It can integrate with domestic solar panel systems, allowing for eco-friendly and cost-effective charging.
- Ease of Use: The user interface is intuitive, making it easy for even non-tech-savvy users to operate the charger effectively.
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Connectivity: These features enhance the user experience by allowing for remote control and monitoring of the charging process.
Cons:
- Higher Price Point: Compared to some other models on the market, the Wallbox Pulsar Plus comes at a premium price, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious consumers.
- Installation Complexity: Professional installation is required, and the process can be more complex and costlier compared to simpler models.
- Dependent on App for Most Features: While the app integration is a pro, it also means that users are heavily reliant on the app for scheduling and monitoring, which could be a downside if there are any issues with the app.
- Limited Physical Interface on the Unit: The charger itself has a limited physical interface, which means most interactions must be done through the app.
- Possible Overkill for Slower Charging EVs: For EVs that cannot charge at the higher speeds the Pulsar Plus offers, the advanced capabilities of this charger might not be fully utilized.
In summary, the Wallbox Pulsar Plus stands out for its compact design, smart features, and fast charging capabilities. It is an excellent choice for EV owners who are looking for a high-quality, feature-rich home charging solution and are willing to invest in a premium product. However, for those who might be looking for a more basic, budget-friendly option, or who prefer a physical interface, other chargers in the market might be more suitable.
EO Mini Pro 2
The EO Mini Pro 2 is a popular choice among EV owners for home charging solutions. Known for its minimalist design and smart features, it caters to a modern, tech-savvy demographic. Let’s dive into the pros and cons of this EV charger:
Pros:
- Compact and Minimalist Design: The EO Mini Pro 2 stands out with its sleek, compact design. One of the smallest smart chargers on the market, it’s perfect for homeowners looking for a charger that doesn’t dominate their driveway or garage space.
- Smart Charging Capabilities: It offers smart features like app control, which allows you to schedule charging sessions, monitor energy usage, and control the charger remotely. This can be particularly useful for taking advantage of off-peak energy rates
- Solar Compatibility: This charger is solar compatible, making it an excellent choice for homes equipped with solar panels. It can charge your EV using green energy, reducing your carbon footprint and electricity costs.
- OLEV Grant Eligibility: The EO Mini Pro 2 is eligible for the OLEV Grant in the UK, making it more affordable for those who qualify.
- Durable and Weatherproof: Built to last, it’s suitable for both indoor and outdoor installations and can withstand various weather conditions.
Cons:
- Higher Price Point: The EO Mini Pro 2 is one of the more expensive options on the market, which may deter budget-conscious buyers.
- Dependent on Internet Connection for Smart Features: The smart functionality relies on a stable internet connection. If your Wi-Fi is weak or unreliable, you might not be able to utilize these features effectively.
- Limited Fast Charging Capabilities: While adequate for overnight charging, it may not be the fastest charger on the market, which could be a drawback for those needing quicker charge times.
- Professional Installation Required: As with most home EV chargers, professional installation is needed, which adds to the overall cost and requires planning.
- No Physical Interface: The reliance on app-based controls means there is no physical interface on the charger itself, which might not appeal to everyone, particularly in situations where immediate manual control is preferred.
In conclusion, the EO Mini Pro 2 is an excellent choice for EV owners who appreciate aesthetics and are looking for a smart, compact home charging solution. It’s especially appealing to those with solar-powered homes or who are interested in leveraging smart features to manage their charging needs effectively. However, its higher price point and reliance on a stable internet connection for smart functionality may not suit everyone’s needs or preferences.
Pod Point Solo
The Pod Point Solo has become a notable choice in the home EV charger market, appreciated for its user-friendly design and functionality. Here’s a detailed review highlighting its pros and cons:
Pros:
- User-Friendly Interface: The Pod Point Solo is renowned for its ease of use. It boasts a straightforward interface that makes it accessible even for those who are not tech-savvy.
- Smart Charging Capabilities: This charger is equipped with smart features, allowing users to control and monitor charging through the Pod Point app. This functionality includes the ability to schedule charging sessions, which is useful for taking advantage of off-peak electricity rates.
- Reliable and Robust Design: The Pod Point Solo is designed to be durable and reliable, suitable for both indoor and outdoor installations, and can withstand varied weather conditions.
- OLEV Grant Eligibility: It qualifies for the OLEV Grant, which can make it a more affordable option for many users in the UK.
- Good Charging Speed: Offering up to 7kW charging, it’s capable of charging EVs relatively quickly, making it a practical choice for daily use.
Cons:
- Basic Design: While functional, its design is quite basic and may not appeal to those looking for a charger with a more modern or stylish appearance.
- Dependent on Wi-Fi for Smart Features: The smart functions rely on a stable Wi-Fi connection. If your internet is unreliable, you might not be able to use these features to their full potential.
- Limited Integration with Home Energy Systems: Unlike some other smart chargers, it may have limited integration capabilities with home energy management systems or solar panels.
- No Physical Controls on the Unit: The charger lacks physical buttons or controls, relying entirely on the app for operation, which might not be ideal for everyone.
- Installation Cost: As with most home EV chargers, the cost of professional installation can add to the overall expense, and it requires scheduling and planning.
In summary, the Pod Point Solo stands out for its simplicity and user-friendliness, making it an excellent choice for those new to EV charging or who prefer a straightforward, no-fuss approach. Its smart capabilities are a significant plus, though its dependence on Wi-Fi and its basic design might be drawbacks for some users. Overall, it’s a reliable and efficient home charging solution, particularly appealing to those eligible for the OLEV Grant.
Zappi by myenergi
The Zappi charger by myenergi has garnered attention in the EV charging market, particularly for its eco-friendly features. It’s a smart choice for EV owners, especially those with an interest in renewable energy. Here’s a closer look at its pros and cons:
Pros:
- Eco-Friendly Charging Modes: Zappi’s standout feature is its eco-friendly charging modes. It can integrate with home solar and wind power systems, allowing you to charge your EV using renewable energy, which is both cost-effective and environmentally friendly.
- Smart Charging Capabilities: The Zappi charger offers smart features like programmable charging times, energy monitoring, and integration with the myenergi app. These features allow users to manage their charging efficiently and take advantage of lower electricity tariffs.
- Flexible Charging Options: It offers a range of charging modes, including fast charging and two eco modes, giving users the flexibility to choose how and when they charge their EV.
- OLEV Grant Eligibility: The Zappi charger qualifies for the OLEV Grant, making it an affordable option for eligible users.
- Built-in RCD Protection: Enhanced safety features include built-in RCD (residual current device) protection, which reduces the risk of electrical faults and enhances user safety.
Cons:
- Complexity for Non-Tech-Savvy Users: The wide range of features and settings might be overwhelming for some users, especially those who are not tech-savvy.
- Dependence on Renewable Energy Setup for Maximum Benefit: To fully benefit from Zappi’s eco-friendly features, a home setup with solar or wind power is ideal. Without this, users might not be able to utilize the charger to its full potential.
- Higher Initial Cost: While the long-term savings are significant, the initial cost of the Zappi charger can be higher than some basic models, particularly when factoring in the installation of renewable energy sources.
- Installation Complexity: Professional installation is required, and the process may be more complex, especially when integrating with existing home energy systems.
- Limited Fast Charging Capability: In its eco-friendly modes, the charging speed can be slower compared to traditional fast chargers, which might not be suitable for users needing a quick charge.
In conclusion, the Zappi by myenergi is an innovative and eco-friendly home EV charger, ideal for those who have or are planning to have a renewable energy setup at home. Its smart features and flexibility make it an attractive option, though its complexity and higher initial cost might be considerations for some users. It stands out as a forward-thinking choice in the realm of EV chargers, aligning well with the sustainable ethos of electric vehicle usage.
BP Chargemaster Homecharge
The BP Chargemaster Homecharge has become a prominent option in the UK’s home EV charger market. Known for its association with one of the largest charging networks in the UK, this charger has several features that make it a considerable choice for EV owners. Let’s delve into its pros and cons:
Pros:
- Brand Reliability: As part of BP’s vast network of charging solutions, the BP Chargemaster Homecharge comes with the reliability and backing of a well-known brand in the energy sector.
- Simple and Efficient Design: The charger boasts a straightforward design that focuses on functionality and efficiency, making it easy to use for everyday charging needs.
- Good Charging Speed: With up to 7kW charging capability, it provides a decent charging speed, suitable for overnight charging or topping up during the day.
- Durability: Designed for both indoor and outdoor use, the BP Chargemaster Homecharge is built to withstand various weather conditions, enhancing its longevity.
- OLEV Grant Eligibility: The charger is eligible for the OLEV Grant, which can make it a more cost-effective option for those who qualify.
Cons:
- Basic Smart Features: While it covers the basics, the smart capabilities of the BP Chargemaster Homecharge might not be as advanced as some other models on the market, which could be a downside for those seeking high-tech options.
- Aesthetics: The design, while practical, is not particularly sleek or modern. This might be a drawback for users who prefer a more stylish charger to complement their home’s exterior.
- Lacks Integration with Renewable Energy Sources: Unlike some other models, it does not offer integration with home solar or wind power systems for eco-friendly charging.
- Professional Installation Required: Installation needs to be done by a professional, adding to the overall cost and requiring some scheduling and planning.
- Limited App Functionality: The associated app might not offer as comprehensive a set of features as some users might expect from a smart charger.
In summary, the BP Chargemaster Homecharge is a solid, reliable choice for those seeking a no-frills, efficient home charging solution. Its straightforward design and dependable performance make it an appealing option, especially for those new to EV charging. However, its lack of advanced smart features and basic design might not satisfy users looking for high-tech capabilities or a more aesthetic appeal. Overall, it’s a practical and robust charger backed by a reputable brand in the energy sector.
Andersen A2
The Andersen A2 has carved out a niche in the home EV charger market, particularly for those who prioritize aesthetics along with functionality. This charger combines high-tech features with a stylish design. Here’s a balanced look at its pros and cons:
Pros:
- Elegant Design: One of the most striking features of the Andersen A2 is its elegant and sleek design. It’s built to blend seamlessly with the aesthetics of modern homes, making it a favorite for those who value style as much as functionality.
- Customizable Appearance: The Andersen A2 offers a range of customizations in terms of colors and finishes, allowing homeowners to match the charger with their home’s exterior or personal style preferences.
- Smart Charging Capabilities: Equipped with smart technology, the A2 allows users to control and monitor their charging remotely via a smartphone app. This includes scheduling charging sessions and tracking energy usage.
- Integrated Cable Management: The charger features a discreet cable management system that keeps the charging cable neatly stowed away when not in use, enhancing its tidy appearance.
- High Charging Speed: The A2 offers up to 22 kW charging (depending on the home’s electrical installation), making it one of the faster home chargers available, suitable for quickly charging an EV.
Cons:
- Premium Pricing: The Andersen A2 is positioned at the higher end of the market in terms of price. The cost can be a significant consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
- Complex Installation Process: Given its high-end design and features, the installation process can be more complex and may require more time and planning compared to more basic models.
- Heavier Focus on Design Over Function: While it performs well, some users might find that the A2 prioritizes aesthetics slightly more over advanced technical features found in other high-end EV chargers.
- Size and Space Requirements: Due to its design and integrated cable management system, the A2 might require more space for installation than more compact chargers.
- App Dependence for Smart Features: As with many smart chargers, the A2 relies heavily on its app for operation and monitoring, which might not be ideal for all users, especially in areas with poor internet connectivity.
In conclusion, the Andersen A2 is a top choice for those who are looking for a high-quality, stylish home EV charger and are willing to invest in a premium product. Its blend of design elegance and smart functionality makes it a unique offering in the market. However, the higher price point and installation complexity may make it less suitable for those seeking a more straightforward or budget-friendly charging solution.
Tesla Wall Connector
The Tesla Wall Connector is a popular home charging solution, especially among Tesla vehicle owners. Known for its sleek design and high charging speed, it’s tailored to complement and enhance the Tesla ownership experience. Here’s an exploration of its pros and cons:
Pros:
- High-Speed Charging: One of the main advantages of the Tesla Wall Connector is its high-speed charging capability. It can provide up to 44 miles of range per hour charged, making it one of the fastest home chargers available, ideal for Tesla vehicles.
- Sleek, Minimalist Design: In line with Tesla’s signature style, the Wall Connector features a sleek, minimalist design that fits well with modern home aesthetics.
- Tesla Integration: Designed specifically for Tesla vehicles, it offers seamless integration, including the ability to balance charging with other home energy use and to work in tandem with Tesla’s home energy products like the Powerwall.
- Long Cable Length: The Wall Connector comes with a long cable, offering flexibility in terms of parking and charger installation location.
- Indoor and Outdoor Use: Built to withstand a range of environmental conditions, the Wall Connector can be installed both indoors and outdoors.
Cons:
- Limited to Tesla Vehicles: The biggest limitation of the Tesla Wall Connector is that it’s designed primarily for Tesla vehicles. While it may charge other EVs with an adapter, it won’t provide the same level of efficiency or integration.
- Higher Cost: Compared to standard EV chargers, the Tesla Wall Connector comes at a premium price, reflecting its high-speed charging capabilities and brand-specific features.
- Professional Installation Required: The installation process requires a certified electrician and can be more complex and costly, especially if your home needs electrical upgrades to support the high-speed charging.
- No Smart Charging Features: Unlike some other high-end EV chargers, the Tesla Wall Connector lacks certain smart features like scheduled charging or energy usage tracking via a mobile app.
- Space Requirements: Due to its fixed cable design, the Tesla Wall Connector may require careful consideration of installation location to ensure convenience and accessibility.
In summary, the Tesla Wall Connector is an excellent choice for Tesla vehicle owners looking for a fast, efficient, and stylish home charging solution. Its design and performance are optimized for Tesla cars, offering a high degree of convenience and speed. However, its cost, brand-specific focus, and lack of certain smart features may not appeal to everyone, particularly non-Tesla EV owners or those looking for a more budget-friendly option.
Ohme Home Charger
The Ohme Home Charger has gained popularity among EV owners for its intelligent charging features and user-friendly interface. Designed to optimize the charging experience, it offers a blend of functionality and convenience. Here’s a comprehensive review of its pros and cons:
Pros:
- Intelligent Charging: Ohme’s standout feature is its ability to adapt charging to electricity tariffs. It can charge your car when the rates are lowest, potentially saving you money on your energy bills.
- Easy Integration with Smart Tariffs: The charger works seamlessly with various smart tariffs, making it a great choice for those who want to maximize their savings and efficiency in electricity usage.
- App-Controlled Features: With the Ohme app, users have complete control over the charging process. You can set charging schedules, monitor energy usage, and adjust settings from your smartphone.
- User-Friendly Interface: The Ohme Home Charger is known for its straightforward and intuitive user interface, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
- Compact Design: The charger boasts a compact and minimalistic design, allowing for easy installation and integration with your home’s exterior.
Cons:
- Dependent on a Stable Internet Connection: The smart features of the Ohme charger rely heavily on a stable internet connection. If your Wi-Fi is unreliable, you might not be able to use these features effectively.
- Limited Fast Charging Capability: While sufficient for overnight charging, it may not offer the fastest charging speeds available in the market, which could be a drawback for those needing quicker charge times.
- Professional Installation Required: As with most home EV chargers, the Ohme charger requires professional installation, which adds to the overall cost and requires planning.
- App-Dependent Operation: The heavy reliance on the app for most functionalities means that users without access to a smartphone or those who prefer physical controls might find it less convenient.
- Cost: While offering advanced features, the Ohme Home Charger comes at a relatively higher price point compared to more basic models, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious consumers.
In conclusion, the Ohme Home Charger is an excellent option for EV owners looking for an intelligent and efficient home charging solution. Its ability to adapt to electricity tariffs for cost-effective charging is particularly appealing. However, its reliance on a stable internet connection and app-based controls, as well as its relatively higher cost, may not suit everyone’s needs or preferences. Overall, it’s a strong contender in the smart EV charger market, especially for those looking to integrate their charger with smart home systems and tariffs.
Hypervolt Home 2.0
The Hypervolt Home 2.0 has made a name for itself in the EV home charging market with its blend of high-tech features and sleek design. It’s a charger that targets tech-savvy EV owners seeking a combination of efficiency and aesthetics. Let’s explore its pros and cons:
Pros:
- Advanced Smart Features: The Hypervolt Home 2.0 stands out for its smart capabilities. It offers Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for remote control and monitoring of the charging process, which can be particularly convenient for managing charging schedules and tracking energy usage.
- Sleek, Modern Design: With its contemporary and minimalist design, the Hypervolt Home 2.0 is aesthetically pleasing and can be a stylish addition to modern homes.
- Automatic Power Adjustment: One of its unique features is the ability to automatically adjust the charging power based on the home’s current energy usage, enhancing safety and energy efficiency.
- Easy Installation and Setup: Users have noted that the Hypervolt Home 2.0 is relatively straightforward to install and set up, adding to its user-friendly appeal.
- Responsive Customer Support: Hypervolt has a reputation for providing excellent customer support, which is a significant plus for any technology product.
Cons:
- Higher Price Point: The advanced features and design of the Hypervolt Home 2.0 come at a premium price, which may not fit within every EV owner’s budget.
- Dependence on App for Operation: While the smart features are a major draw, they also mean that users are heavily reliant on the Hypervolt app for most functionalities, which might not be ideal for everyone.
- Limited Fast Charging Capability: Compared to some other models on the market, the Hypervolt Home 2.0 may not offer the fastest charging speeds, which could be a downside for users needing quicker charge times.
- Requires Stable Internet Connection: For optimal use of its smart features, a stable internet connection is necessary, which could be a limitation in areas with poor connectivity.
- Learning Curve for Smart Features: Some users might find there’s a learning curve to fully utilizing all the smart features effectively, especially those who are not as tech-savvy.
In summary, the Hypervolt Home 2.0 is a top-tier choice for EV owners who are looking for a smart, efficient, and aesthetically pleasing home charging solution and are willing to pay a premium for these features. Its smart technology and design set it apart in the market, but its price point and reliance on digital connectivity might be considerations for some buyers. It’s particularly suited for those who embrace smart home technologies and want their EV charger to complement this ecosystem.
Each of these chargers offers a unique set of features catering to different preferences and requirements. It’s always advisable to consider factors such as charging speed, cable length, smart capabilities, and compatibility with your EV model when choosing a charger. Remember, the EV charging landscape is continually evolving, with new and improved models frequently entering the market.
