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Choosing the best Level 1 ev chargers requires matching your outlet and vehicle connector to the right amperage. We compared 8 portable units ranked by their published specifications. The ApexCharger MACH 3 40A Portable leads because it supports 40A output with both J1772 and NACS connectors. These picks are based strictly on the specs published on the listings. Use this guide to decide which charger fits your voltage requirements and cable length needs.
Match Amperage to Your Outlet
You must match the charger’s amperage to your outlet’s capacity. Most units here support 40A but require a 240V NEMA 14-50 plug. If you only have a standard 120V NEMA 5-15 outlet, you are limited to 16A models like the DEWALT or VEVOR. Always verify your plug type before buying to ensure the unit works with your home’s electrical system.
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ApexCharger MACH 3 40A Portable Best overall | fast charging with app control and dual connectors | |
| 2 | Grizzl-E Mini NACS Portable Charger Best premium | smart monitoring and durable outdoor use | |
| 3 | WOLFBOX PE40 40A Portable EV Charger Also great | portable charging with high amperage flexibility | |
| 4 | DEWALT Portable EV Charger 16A Best budget | rugged outdoor charging with long reach | |
| 5 | Lectron Explorer NACS Portable Charger Also great | Tesla owners needing weatherproof Level 2 charging | |
| 6 | Lectron NACS Portable EV Charger 40A Also great | Tesla owners needing 40-amp portable charging | |
| 7 | DEWALT Portable EV Charger 16A NACS Best travel | Tesla drivers needing weather protection | |
| 8 | VEVOR 16 Amp Level 1+2 Portable EV Charger Best home | Long cable reach and app scheduling |
The best fit for you
- You need fast charging with app control for multiple vehicles – ApexCharger MACH 3 40A Portable – It offers 40A output, dual J1772 and NACS connectors, and app control.
- You want smart monitoring and durable outdoor use – Grizzl-E Mini NACS Portable Charger – It provides 40A charging with smart features and weather-resistant construction.
- You need rugged durability and long cable reach – DEWALT Portable EV Charger 16A – It features a 25 ft cable, 16A output, and CSA certification.
ApexCharger MACH 3 40A Portable
Best for: fast charging with app control and dual connectors
- Charging Level
- Level 1
- Connector Type
- SAE J1772, NACS
- Amperage
- 40 A
- Power Output
- 9.6 kW
- Power Plug
- NEMA 14-50
- Voltage
- 120–240 V
The ApexCharger Mach 3 delivers 40 amps of power on a 240V circuit, reaching 9.6 kW for rapid Level 2 charging. It includes a 25-foot cable and supports both J1772 and NACS connectors. You can control the unit via a 2.4-inch LED display or through Bluetooth and Wi-Fi app connectivity. This model adapts to 120V outlets for slower Level 1 charging, offering flexibility for various home setups.
- 40A maximum amperage for fast charging speeds
- 25-foot cable length for flexible placement
- Dual J1772 and NACS connector compatibility
- Bluetooth and Wi-Fi app control
- 2.4-inch LED display for live updates
- Requires a NEMA 14-50 outlet for maximum 40A performance
- Bulky dimensions of 9.15 inches in height
- Higher power draw than standard Level 1 chargers
- You have a NEMA 14-50 outlet for fast charging
- You drive both Tesla and non-Tesla electric vehicles
- You want remote monitoring via a mobile app
- You only have standard 120V outlets available
- You prefer a compact unit under 5 inches tall
- You want a charger that plugs directly into any wall socket
Verdict: ApexCharger Mach 3 40A Portable EV Charger suits drivers with dedicated 240V circuits who need fast charging for multiple vehicle types. It is ideal for those who value app control and long cable reach over compact portability.
Grizzl-E Mini NACS Portable Charger
Best for: smart monitoring and durable outdoor use
- Charging Level
- Level 1
- Connector Type
- NACS
- Amperage
- 7 A–40 A
- Power Plug
- NEMA 14-50
- Cable Length
- 25 ft
- Features
- Fast Charging
The Grizzl-E Mini is a compact Level 1 and Level 2 charger designed for portability. It features a 25-foot cable and adjusts from 7 to 40 amps. The unit includes Wi-Fi connectivity for monitoring and scheduling. It comes with four adapters for different circuits. This model suits drivers who need a durable, smart charging solution that travels easily.
- Adjustable amperage from 7A to 40A
- 25-foot cable length for reach
- Wi-Fi smart monitoring and scheduling
- Includes four NEMA adapters for versatility
- NEMA-4X water-resistant cast aluminum enclosure
- Heavier at 19.4 pounds compared to lighter portable options
- Larger physical dimensions of 6.9 by 3.1 by 2.4 inches
- Requires NEMA 14-50 plug as the primary connection
- You need smart monitoring via Wi-Fi
- You want a durable, weather-resistant build
- You need multiple NEMA adapter options
- You prefer a lighter, more compact unit
- You need a standard 120V NEMA 5-15 plug
- You want a lower price point
Verdict: Grizzl-E Mini NACS Portable Charger offers robust durability and smart features for drivers who prioritize connectivity and weather resistance over minimal weight.
WOLFBOX PE40 40A Portable EV Charger
Best for: portable charging with high amperage flexibility
- Charging Level
- Level 1
- Connector Type
- J1772
- Amperage
- 40A
- Power Plug
- NEMA 14-50, NEMA 5-15, NEMA 6-20
- Voltage
- 110V-240V
- Cable Length
- 25 ft
The WOLFBOX 40A Portable EV Charger delivers up to 40 amps of charging power across 110V to 240V outlets. It includes a 25-foot cable and supports NEMA 5-15, 6-20, and 14-50 plugs. This unit adds 37 miles of range per hour at peak output. It features ETL certification and an IP66 waterproof rating for outdoor use. You get adjustable amperage from 6A to 40A with a delay timer for off-peak charging.
- Delivers up to 40A charging speed
- 25-foot cable length for flexible parking
- ETL certified with IP66 waterproof rating
- Adjustable amperage from 6A to 40A
- Supports NEMA 5-15, 6-20, and 14-50 plugs
- Heavier build due to rugged aluminum alloy casing
- Physical buttons only, no smart app connectivity
- You need a portable charger for travel or camping
- You want to adjust charging speed to match your circuit
- You prefer physical controls for use in cold weather
- You require a dedicated wall-mounted installation only
- You need a charger with Wi-Fi or app control
- You want a lighter, more compact unit for frequent carrying
Verdict: WOLFBOX 40A Portable EV Charger is a robust option for EV owners who need high-amperage charging flexibility on the go. It suits those who prioritize rugged outdoor durability and adjustable speed over smart features.
DEWALT Portable EV Charger 16A
Best for: rugged outdoor charging with long reach
- Charging Level
- Level 1
- Connector Type
- SAE J1772
- Amperage
- 16 A
- Power Output
- 3.84 kW
- Power Plug
- NEMA 6-20, NEMA 5-15
- Voltage
- 120-240V
This DEWALT portable charger delivers up to 16 Amps and 3.84 kW of power. It supports both Level 1 and Level 2 charging with a 25 ft UL-certified cable. The unit features a NEMA 6-20 plug with a NEMA 5-15 adapter for flexible connection options. Its IP66 waterproof rating and CSA certification ensure safe indoor and outdoor use. You get reliable performance with overvoltage and surge protection built into the durable yellow housing.
- 16 Amp max output for steady charging speeds
- 25 ft cable length provides extended reach
- IP66 waterproof rating for outdoor durability
- CSA certified for safety compliance
- Includes NEMA 5-15 adapter for standard outlets
- 16 Amp limit is lower than 40 Amp competitors
- 3.84 kW power output is less than higher-amp models
- Tesla adapter sold separately
- You need a rugged, tool-grade charger for job sites
- You require a long 25 ft cable for reach
- You want CSA certified safety for indoor use
- You need the fastest possible charging speeds
- You want a Tesla adapter included in the box
- You prefer a compact unit under 15 ft cable
Verdict: DEWALT 16A Portable EV Charger offers rugged durability and a long 25 ft cable for users who prioritize build quality over raw speed. It fits professionals who need a reliable, CSA-certified tool for varied charging environments.
Lectron Explorer NACS Portable Charger
Best for: Tesla owners needing weatherproof Level 2 charging
- Charging Level
- Level 1
- Connector Type
- NACS
- Amperage
- 24A
- Power Output
- 5.7kW
- Power Plug
- NEMA 5-15, NEMA 14-50
- Voltage
- 120V, 240V
This Lectron unit handles both Level 1 and Level 2 charging for NACS-equipped vehicles. It delivers up to 24 amps at 240V for 5.7kW output, or 12 amps at 120V. The 20 ft cable reaches from standard outlets to your car. It features IP67 weather resistance and UL safety certifications. You get 17–20 miles of range per hour on Level 2. This makes it a solid option for home or travel use.
- Supports 240V Level 2 charging at up to 24 amps
- IP67 rated for dust and water resistance
- Includes a 20 ft charging cable
- UL 2594 and 2251 safety certified
- Lower maximum amperage than the 40A competitors on this list
- Heavier build at 13.3 pounds compared to lighter portable units
- You own a Tesla or NACS-compatible EV
- You need a single charger for both 120V and 240V outlets
- You require weather-resistant equipment for outdoor charging
- You need the fastest possible charging speeds available
- You prefer a lighter device for frequent travel
- You only have access to 120V household outlets
Verdict: Lectron Explorer 24A NACS EV Charger fits owners of Tesla and NACS vehicles who want a durable, weatherproof charger for home use. It suits you if you have a 240V outlet and want reliable safety certifications.
Lectron NACS Portable EV Charger 40A
Best for: Tesla owners needing 40-amp portable charging
- Charging Level
- Level 1
- Connector Type
- NACS
- Amperage
- 40A
- Power Plug
- NEMA 14-50, NEMA 5-15
- Cable Length
- 20ft
This Lectron portable charger supports Level 1 and Level 2 charging for Tesla and NACS vehicles. It delivers up to 40 amps via a NEMA 14-50 plug or 8 amps via a NEMA 5-15 plug. The unit includes a 20-foot cable and a wall mount for flexible installation. Real-time monitoring is available through LED indicators. It is ETL-certified for safe operation.
- Delivers up to 40 amps for faster charging
- Includes 20-foot charging cable for reach
- ETL-certified with overvoltage and overcurrent protection
- Compatible with Tesla and NACS vehicles
- 20-foot cable is shorter than the 25-foot cables on other list items
- LED indicators provide less detail than app-based monitoring
- You own a Tesla or NACS-compatible EV
- You need a portable charger with 40-amp capability
- You prefer physical LED status indicators over app connectivity
- You require a cable longer than 20 feet
- You need Wi-Fi or Bluetooth app monitoring
- You drive a non-NACS vehicle without an adapter
Verdict: Lectron NACS Portable EV Charger 40A is a solid option for Tesla owners who want high amperage and ETL safety certification. It fits drivers who prioritize charging speed and physical durability over app connectivity.
DEWALT Portable EV Charger 16A NACS
Best for: Tesla drivers needing weather protection
- Charging Level
- Level 1
- Connector Type
- NACS
- Amperage
- 16A
- Power Output
- 3.84 kW
- Power Plug
- NEMA 6-20, NEMA 5-15 adapter
- Cable Length
- 25ft
The DEWALT 16A portable charger delivers up to 16 amps and 3.84 kW of power. It includes a 25 ft cable and a NACS connector for Tesla vehicles. The unit features a NEMA 6-20 plug with a NEMA 5-15 adapter. It carries an IP66 waterproof rating and CSA certification. This model suits travelers needing a durable, weather-resistant charging solution for road trips.
- 16 Amp output provides 12 miles of range per hour
- 25 ft cable length offers extended reach
- IP66 waterproof rating protects against weather
- CSA certified for safety reliability
- Includes NACS connector for Tesla compatibility
- 16 Amp maximum is lower than the 40 Amp options on this list
- 25 ft cable is shorter than the 40 Amp competitors
- 3.84 kW power output is less than higher-amp models
- You need a charger with a long 25 ft cable
- You require a unit with an IP66 waterproof rating
- You own a Tesla and need a NACS connector
- You need more than 16 Amps of charging speed
- You want a cable longer than 25 ft
- You prefer a charger with higher than 3.84 kW power output
Verdict: DEWALT 16A Portable EV Charger fits drivers who prioritize weather resistance and cable length over maximum charging speed. It is a solid choice for Tesla owners traveling in varied conditions.
VEVOR 16 Amp Level 1+2 Portable EV Charger
Best for: Long cable reach and app scheduling
- Charging Level
- Level 1
- Connector Type
- SAE J1772
- Amperage
- 16 A
- Power Output
- 3.8 kW
- Power Plug
- NEMA 6-20P, NEMA 5-15 adapter
- Voltage
- 120 V, 240 V
This VEVOR unit delivers 16 amps at 120V or 240V, offering up to 3.8 kW of power. It includes a 28-foot cable and supports both Level 1 and Level 2 charging. You get remote control via the Smart Life app and scheduling features. The IP66-rated design handles outdoor conditions well. It fits all SAE J1772 vehicles and includes a storage bag for travel.
- 28-foot cable length for extended reach
- Smart Life app for remote monitoring and scheduling
- IP66 waterproof and dustproof rating
- ETL certified for safety protection
- 16 amp max output is lower than 40 amp competitors
- 7 pound weight is heavier than lighter portable options
- You need a long 28-foot cable for driveway charging
- You want app control for scheduling off-peak rates
- You require IP66 weather resistance for outdoor use
- You need faster 40 amp charging speeds
- You prefer a lighter unit under 5 pounds
- You only want Level 1 charging capability
Verdict: VEVOR 16 Amp Level 1+2 Portable EV Charger provides reliable app-controlled charging with a long cable. It suits drivers who prioritize reach and remote scheduling over maximum speed.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | ApexCharger MACH 3 40A Portable | Grizzl-E Mini NACS Portable Charger | WOLFBOX PE40 40A Portable EV Charger | DEWALT Portable EV Charger 16A | Lectron Explorer NACS Portable Charger | Lectron NACS Portable EV Charger 40A | DEWALT Portable EV Charger 16A NACS | VEVOR 16 Amp Level 1+2 Portable EV Charger |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Connector Type | SAE J1772, NACS | NACS | J1772 | SAE J1772 | NACS | NACS | NACS | SAE J1772 |
| Charging Level | Level 1 & 2 | Level 1-2 | Level 1 & 2 | Level 1 and Level 2 | Level 1 and 2 | Level 1/2 | Level 1 & 2 | Level 1, Level 2 |
| Amperage | 40 A | 7 A–40 A | 40A | 16 A | 24A | 40A | 16A | 16 A |
| Power Output | 9.6 kW | – | – | 3.84 kW | 5.7kW | – | 3.84 kW | 3.8 kW |
| Power Plug | NEMA 14-50 | NEMA 14-50 | NEMA 14-50, NEMA 5-15, NEMA 6-20 | NEMA 6-20, NEMA 5-15 | NEMA 5-15, NEMA 14-50 | NEMA 14-50, NEMA 5-15 | NEMA 6-20, NEMA 5-15 adapter | NEMA 6-20P, NEMA 5-15 adapter |
| Voltage | 120–240 V | – | 110V-240V | 120-240V | 120V, 240V | – | – | 120 V, 240 V |
| Cable Length | 25 ft | 25 ft | 25 ft | 25 ft | 20 ft | 20ft | 25ft | 28 ft |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi | – | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| Features | – | Fast Charging | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| Intended Use | Outdoor | Outdoor | Outdoor | Outdoor | – | – | Travel | Home |
| Dimensions | 2.34 × 3.79 × 9.15 inches | 6.9 × 3.1 × 2.4 inches | – | 17.9 × 4.84 × 14.2 inches | – | – | 9.27 × 4.33 × 2.17 inches | 13 × 13 × 6.69 inches |
| Weight | – | 19.4 pounds | – | – | 13.3 pounds | – | – | 7 pounds |
| Size | Portable | NACS/Tesla | 40Amp | NEMA 5-15 & 6-20 | – | – | 16 Amp | 16 Amp |
| Color | Offblack | black | 40A/J1772 | yellow | Black | Black | 16 Amp | Level 1-2 |
| Model | ApexCharger Mach 3 | Grizzl-E Mini | PE40 | DXPAEV016-DS | LECHGL1/2NACS-12/24AUS | LECHGL1/2NACS-8-40AUS | EV100D-16P | Level 1+2 | 16 Amp |
How to choose the right Level 1 EV Charger
Check Voltage Compatibility
Verify the voltage rating before buying. Most units here require 240V for high amperage. The ApexCharger MACH 3 40A Portable and WOLFBOX PE40 need a 240V circuit to reach 40 amps. If you only have a standard 120V outlet, you must choose a lower amperage model. The VEVOR 16 Amp unit supports 120V input. Using a 240V charger on a 120V outlet is not possible. Always check your home electrical panel or consult an electrician. Matching voltage ensures the charger works safely and efficiently with your existing infrastructure.
Match Plug Types
Ensure the power plug fits your outlet. Many chargers use NEMA 14-50 plugs for 240V power. The Grizzl-E Mini NACS uses this plug type. Some models, like the ApexCharger MACH 3, also include a NEMA 5-15 plug for 120V use. This dual-plug option offers flexibility if you lack a 240V outlet. The DEWALT 16A Portable EV Charger uses a NEMA 5-15 plug. Check your outlet shape before purchasing. An incorrect plug means you cannot use the charger without installing new hardware. Compatibility prevents costly electrical upgrades.
Select Connector Type
Choose the connector that matches your vehicle. J1772 is standard for most non-Tesla EVs. The ApexCharger MACH 3 and WOLFBOX PE40 support J1772. Tesla vehicles use the NACS connector. The Grizzl-E Mini NACS and Lectron Explorer NACS are built for NACS. Some models offer dual connectors. The ApexCharger MACH 3 includes both J1772 and NACS. This allows you to charge different vehicle types with one unit. Selecting the wrong connector requires an adapter. Direct connection is safer and more reliable for daily use.
Evaluate Cable Length
Consider the cable length for your parking spot. Longer cables provide more reach. The ApexCharger MACH 3 and WOLFBOX PE40 both have 25-foot cables. This length helps if your outlet is far from the car. The DEWALT 16A Portable EV Charger also features a 25-foot cable. Shorter cables are easier to store but limit placement. If your outlet is behind a wall or fence, you need extra length. Measure the distance from your outlet to the charging port. Adequate length prevents strain on the cable and connector during use.
Review Amperage Options
Higher amperage means faster charging. The ApexCharger MACH 3 and Grizzl-E Mini offer 40A output. This requires a 240V circuit. Lower amperage models charge slower but work on standard outlets. The DEWALT 16A Portable EV Charger provides 16A. The VEVOR 16 Amp unit also delivers 16A. The Lectron Explorer offers 24A. Choose higher amperage if you have a dedicated circuit. Select lower amperage if you rely on standard outlets. Amperage determines how quickly you can add range. Match this spec to your electrical capacity and time constraints.
Frequently asked questions
Can a Level 1 EV charger work with both J1772 and NACS connectors?
Yes, some portable units support both connector types. The ApexCharger MACH 3 40A Portable includes both J1772 and NACS connectors, allowing you to charge different vehicle brands without needing adapters. This dual-connector design adds versatility for households with mixed electric vehicle fleets.
What is the longest cable length available on these portable chargers?
Several models offer a 25-foot cable length for extended reach. The ApexCharger MACH 3 40A Portable, WOLFBOX PE40 40A Portable, and DEWALT Portable EV Charger 16A all include 25-foot cables. This length helps you reach your vehicle from various parking spots or outlets.
Do these chargers require a 240V outlet for 40-amp charging?
Most high-amperage units require a 240V circuit to reach 40 amps. The ApexCharger MACH 3 40A Portable and WOLFBOX PE40 40A Portable need a 240V NEMA 14-50 plug for full speed. Lower amperage options like the DEWALT 16A work with standard 120V outlets.
Which portable EV charger is best for outdoor durability?
The Grizzl-E Mini NACS Portable Charger is built for robust outdoor use. It features weather-resistant construction and smart monitoring for reliable performance in various environments. The DEWALT models also emphasize rugged durability, making them suitable for professionals who need dependable charging in varied conditions.
Can I control my EV charger remotely via an app?
Yes, certain models offer app control for remote management. The ApexCharger MACH 3 40A Portable includes app control, allowing you to monitor charging status and settings from your phone. The VEVOR 16 Amp model also supports app scheduling for convenient, remote operation of your charging sessions.
Is there a portable charger that works with Tesla NACS connectors?
Several options support the NACS connector standard for Tesla and compatible vehicles. The Grizzl-E Mini, Lectron Explorer, Lectron 40A, and DEWALT 16A NACS models all feature NACS connectors. These units allow direct connection to NACS ports without needing additional adapters or conversion plugs.
What is the weight of the Lectron NACS Portable EV Charger?
The Lectron NACS Portable EV Charger 40A weighs 13.3 pounds. This moderate weight balances portability with the robust components needed for 40-amp charging. It is designed for drivers who prioritize charging speed and physical durability over minimal weight for easy transport.
Are there Level 1 chargers suitable for home use with app scheduling?
The VEVOR 16 Amp Level 1+2 Portable EV Charger is designed for home use. It provides reliable app-controlled charging with a long cable for convenient scheduling. This model suits drivers who prioritize reach and remote scheduling capabilities over maximum charging speed for their daily home charging needs.
