Tethered EV Chargers Vs Untethered EV Chargers: 5 Key Differences

As technology advances, so do our daily lives, and come 2035 car companies will no longer be allowed to make ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) vehicles, so more and more of us will be behind the wheels of an EV (Electric Vehicle). For many of us, this will also mean an end to queuing at petrol stations to fill our cars as we will have our own chargers at home and can keep our cars charged by topping up overnight. The question on everyone’s mind is, tethered vs untethered EV charger, which is best for me? In this article, we are going to explore the differences between a tethered EV charger and an untethered EV charger, so you have all the information you need to make the right choice.

1. Storage and Aesthetics with untethered

Most people like to keep their homes looking tidy, and when it comes to the external aesthetic this couldn’t be truer. Especially when we know how important kerb appeal is, not just to potential buyers, but also to keep your neighbours happy. If this is the most important factor for you, then an untethered EV charger would be most suitable as it can be installed to look very indiscreet. With a tethered EV charger, you will need to have suitable cable storage, which could look unsightly, or need a housing unit for the cable which could take up a fair bit of space. Without a housing unit for your cable, it is also exposed to the elements which could cause it damage and shorten its lifespan. The other consideration is security. Leaving open access to a tethered unit could encourage opportunists to plug in and charge, leaving you footing the bill. However, it would cost a lot more if an untethered unit had its cable left plugged in and that was stolen. It is better to be vigilant either way.

2. Charging Connections for your EV chargers

This is where an untethered EV charger excels. As it doesn’t have a permanent cable connected to it, and will only have one type of connection, an untethered unit can be used by cars with both Type One and Type Two models. A Type One plug is a 5-pin design, and a Type Two is a 7-pin design meaning they are not interchangeable. So, if you had two electric cars and each had a different type of connection, you would need two tethered EV chargers. Having the untethered unit means anyone can connect with the charger supplied with their vehicle. This is an even greater benefit for a rental property, an Airbnb or a hotel.

3. Ease of Use and Longevity

A tethered EV charger is ready to go. You don’t need to take it out or put it away in the rain and snow. You don’t need to hunt for it in your car boot under your shopping, luggage or pram, and you won’t ever leave it connected to another charger by mistake. Also, continually removing and restoring the cable, combined with non-stop plugging and unplugging at both ends will add wear and tear to the cable meaning an untethered EV Charger cable may have a shorter lifespan.

4. Cable Length

Tethered EV chargers typically come with a standard-length cable of either 5, 7.5 or 10 metres, which is perfectly fine if you can park your car close to the charging point, but what would you do if you didn’t have a driveway, a garage or access for your car to park close enough? Some homes, particularly on cul-de-sacs, will have on-road parking bays and houses may be further down a path. This is where an untethered EV charger is ideal as they are available online at lengths of up to 50 metres, meaning you can park a fair distance from your charger and still be able to use it. Just ensure you lay it safely, so as not to trip any of your neighbours.

5. Cost of chargers

Typically, a tethered EV charger will come in at a higher price point than an untethered EV charger of similar specifications simply because it comes with a permanent cable attached, which adds to the manufacturing and materials costs. However, you will have to factor in the price of purchasing the cable separately with an untethered unit as, depending on brand, length and wattage, prices can vary. It is always recommended to do your research thoroughly to work out a cost-effective solution for you.