Compare EV Charger Levels
Level 1 vs Level 2 vs Level 3: which EV charger is right for your Austin home or business? See the full comparison below.
Our Recommendation: Level 2 for most Austin homeowners
Best balance of charging speed, cost, and convenience. Full charge overnight, every night.
| Feature | Level 1 | Level 2Popular | Level 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Voltage | 120V | 240V | 400-900V DC |
| Amperage | 12-16A | 30-50A | 100-400A |
| Power Output | 1.2 - 1.9 kW | 7.2 - 11.5 kW | 50 - 350 kW |
| Range per Hour | 3 - 5 miles | 25 - 30 miles | 180 - 250+ miles |
| Time to Full Charge | 24 - 40 hours | 4 - 8 hours | 20 - 60 minutes (to 80%) |
| Hardware Cost | $100 - $300 | $300 - $1,200 | $15,000 - $40,000 |
| Total Install Cost | $200 - $500 | $800 - $2,500 | $20,000 - $100,000+ |
| Circuit Required | Standard 120V outlet (NEMA 5-15) | Dedicated 240V circuit (NEMA 14-50 or hardwired) | Commercial 3-phase power |
| Austin Permit | Usually not required | Required in Austin | Required — commercial permit process |
| Best For | Plug-in hybrids, low-mileage drivers, renters | Most EV owners, daily commuters, families with EVs | Commercial properties, fleet operations, gas stations, public charging |
Level 1
120V • 1.2 - 1.9 kW
Best for: Plug-in hybrids, low-mileage drivers, renters
Level 2
Most Popular240V • 7.2 - 11.5 kW
Best for: Most EV owners, daily commuters, families with EVs
Level 3
400-900V DC • 50 - 350 kW
Best for: Commercial properties, fleet operations, gas stations, public charging
Pros & Cons
Level 1
Pros
- No installation needed (uses existing outlet)
- Lowest cost option
- Portable — take it when you move
- No permit required in Austin
Cons
- Very slow charging (overnight won't fully charge most EVs)
- Not practical for daily commuters driving 40+ miles
- May not keep up with winter energy consumption
Level 2
Pros
- Full charge overnight for any EV
- Best balance of cost and speed
- Smart features (scheduling, app control)
- Increases home resale value
- Eligible for federal tax credit
Cons
- Requires professional installation
- May need electrical panel upgrade
- Higher upfront cost than Level 1
Level 3
Pros
- Extremely fast charging
- Essential for commercial operations
- Revenue potential for businesses
- Supports high-traffic locations
Cons
- Not practical for residential use
- Very high installation cost
- Requires commercial electrical service
- Higher maintenance costs
- Some EVs don't support DC fast charging
Which Charger Is Right for You?
Daily Commuter
30-60 miles/day
Level 2
Full charge overnight, ready every morning. The sweet spot of speed and cost.
Short-Trip Driver
Under 30 miles/day
Level 1 or 2
Level 1 may suffice, but Level 2 gives you peace of mind and flexibility.
Road Tripper
Frequent long trips
Level 2 at home
Level 2 at home for daily use. Use public Level 3 stations for road trips.
Business Owner
Customer/fleet charging
Level 2 or 3
Level 2 for employee/customer perks. Level 3 for revenue-generating public stations.
Not Sure Which Charger to Choose?
Our Austin electricians will assess your home, driving habits, and budget to recommend the perfect EV charging solution.
Get a Free Recommendation