Electric cars offer freedom from the cost and constraints of gas dependency. This freedom is one of the biggest selling points for EV vehicles, but there are certainly some trade-offs that come. One of these is the continuous need to charge your vehicle, which may be inconvenient compared to the quick and efficient process of filling a gas tank. The convenience of this action ultimately depends on the quality of your car EV charger, though. If you’re struggling to decide between two of the top brands — Lectron and Schumacher — consider the following key differences.
Higher Power Levels Equals Faster Charging
There are many criteria to consider when you’re looking for the right EV battery charging cable, but the most important is arguably the power level that it offers. There are three different levels that a charger can perform at, with level one being the slowest and level three being the fastest. Ideally, you would always have access to a level three charging station, but this isn’t realistic — especially for a residential charging station like the Lectron or Schumacher.
Instead, you’ll likely have to settle for either level one or level two. Level one charging can take as long as 30 hours to fully charge an electric battery in an EV vehicle, and level two charging may take as long as ten hours. Level two is thus the preferred option for most EV enthusiasts, which illuminates an important distinction between the aforementioned brands.
Lectron manufactures an array of electric chargers, many of which are designed to provide both level one and level two charging. This versatility makes it a great option for anybody who wants the flexibility to control how much power they use when charging their vehicle. Schumacher, on the other hand, produces chargers that can provide either level one or level two charging — but not both.
Cable Options To Fit Your Needs
The configuration of an EV charger’s cable is yet another important factor that will impact its usability. Your EV battery charging cable will likely be installed in your garage or elsewhere in your home, so it needs to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The Lectron and Schumacher chargers are both top-tier in this regard, but important differences may determine your decision.
The length of the Lectron’s cable depends on which model you select. Some chargers come with a cable that is 15 feet long, and others come with a cable that is up to 21 feet long. Lectron also sells its extension cord so that it’s easy to charge your car from a distance. The Schumacher chargers also come in various lengths, with some running as short as 12 feet and others extending to 18 feet. Schumacher users can also invest in an extension cord for additional length.
Whether you choose the Lectron or the Schumacher, you should shop at a retailer with the EV accessories you need. Look for your new EV charger at a trusted online auto parts store.
