Portable chargers vs dedicated wallbox: Pros and Cons

With the rise of electric vehicles (EVs) and plug in hybrids (PHEV), the need for efficient and convenient charging solutions has become paramount. Two popular options are portable EV chargers and wallbox chargers.

Each has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, including considerations of energy loss and safety. When making the switch to either an EV or a hybrid vehicle, there is an important decision to make whether to install a dedicated wallbox, or make do with a portable charger.

Read on for our guide to the pros and cons of both.

Portable EV Chargers

Pros:

Portability: The primary advantage of portable EV chargers is their mobility. These chargers can be carried in the vehicle, allowing you to charge your EV anywhere there is an accessible power outlet.
Flexibility: Portable chargers are versatile and can be used in various locations, including home, work, or while traveling. Many EV drivers keep one spare just in case.
Cost-Effective: Generally, portable chargers are less expensive than installing a dedicated wallbox charger.
Ease of Installation: No professional installation is required. You simply plug it into a standard electrical outlet.

Cons:

Slower Charging Speeds: Portable chargers typically offer lower power output compared to wallbox chargers, resulting in longer charging times. In the UK, portable chargers should not exceed 2.3kW, whereas a dedicated wallbox typically charges at 7.4kW - almost 3x the speed.
Energy Loss: Charging efficiency can be lower in portable chargers due to energy conversion losses, especially when using lower voltage household outlets.
Temporary Use: Portable chargers are designed for temporary or occasional use. Long-term usage can pose potential safety and fire risks due to continuous high power draw from standard outlets not designed for prolonged heavy use.

Wallbox Chargers

Pros:

Faster Charging Speeds: Wallbox chargers provide higher power output - typically 7.4kW, supporting Level 2 charging, which significantly reduces the time required to fully charge an EV.
Higher Efficiency: Wallbox chargers often have better energy efficiency, reducing energy loss during the charging process.
Convenience: Once installed, wallbox chargers offer a dedicated and convenient charging solution at home.
Enhanced Features: Many wallbox chargers come with advanced features such as Wi-Fi & 4G connectivity, smart charging capabilities, and integration with home energy systems such as solar panels and battery storage.
Energy tariff compatibility: There are many off-peak and intelligent EV tariffs - wallboxes can be scheduled or communicate with these tariffs to save you a lot of money.

Cons:

Higher Initial Cost: Wallbox chargers are more expensive to purchase and require professional installation, adding to the initial setup cost.
Fixed Location: Once installed, a wallbox charger is fixed in one location, limiting its use to that specific site.
Installation Requirements: Installing a wallbox charger may require upgrades to your home’s electrical system, however most installations are straightforward.

Energy Loss Considerations

When comparing portable chargers to wallbox chargers, energy loss is an important factor:

Portable Chargers: Energy loss in portable chargers can be more significant due to the lower efficiency of converting standard household current to the required voltage for the EV. This can result in longer charging times and increased energy consumption.
Wallbox Chargers: These chargers are designed for higher efficiency, particularly those supporting Level 2 charging (240V). The energy conversion process in wallbox chargers is generally more efficient, reducing the overall energy loss and making charging faster and more economical in the long run.

Safety Considerations

Portable Chargers: Designed primarily for temporary or emergency use, portable chargers can pose safety risks if used as a long-term solution. Continuous high power draw from standard electrical outlets can lead to overheating, potentially causing electrical fires or damage to the outlet and charger. Whilst most high quality portable chargers have built in protection systems, some cheap product does not.
Wallbox Chargers: Wallbox units are heavily regulated and built for regular, long-term use and are installed with safety features and considerations. They are often installed with a "surge protection device" (or SPD) which protects you and your property in the event of an electrical surge.

What About Plug In Hybrid Vehicles?

Plug in hybrid vehicles are becoming increasingly popular as they offer a half-way-house between ICE (internal combustion engine) and full EV (electric vehicle), whilst still attracting tax incentives. Modern hybrids offer greater battery capacities and therefore range.

For hybrid drivers, it can be a dilemma choosing between a dedicated wallbox or "making do" with the portable (or "granny") charger. To decide what's best for you, it's worth considering the overall cost of a dedicated wallbox installation and what that might save you in charging time and cost by using off-peak energy tariffs.

It's worth checking our cost-to-charge lookup tool to make the right decision for you.

Conclusion

Both portable EV chargers and wallbox chargers have their unique advantages and disadvantages. Your choice will depend on your specific needs and circumstances:

Choose a Portable Charger if: You need flexibility and portability, and you don't mind slower charging times. It's a cost-effective solution for occasional use or for those who travel frequently. However, keep in mind the potential safety risks of long-term use.
Choose a Wallbox Charger if: You want a faster, more efficient, and convenient home charging solution. It's ideal for regular use and long-term savings despite the higher initial cost and installation requirements. Wallbox chargers are safer for prolonged use, providing peace of mind with their built-in safety features.

In summary, understanding the trade-offs, including energy loss and safety considerations, can help you make an informed decision that best fits your lifestyle and charging needs.