Tethered vs untethered EV charger…which is best?

There are a few things to consider when deciding which home EV charger is right for you, including whether to choose a tethered or untethered charging unit.  

What’s the difference between tethered and untethered? 

The main difference between tethered and untethered EV chargers is the charging cable. Tethered chargers have a permanently attached charging cable, whereas untethered chargers (sometimes referred to as socket) have a detachable cable that you can unplug from the unit. 

Quick look - tethered EV chargers 

Tethered chargers pros: 

• Tethered chargers offer convenience, you’ll simply need to plug your car in.  

• The tethered charging cable is included in the price of the unit. 

• The attached cable offers greater security than an untethered cable as it can’t be removed.  

Tethered chargers cons: 

• Tethered chargers are limited to the length of the cable and can’t be replaced with a longer cable if necessary.  

• Tethered chargers are restricted to one type of charging connection, Type 1 or Type 2. 

All about tethered EV chargers 

Tethered EV chargers are a popular choice due to the convenience of the cable always being plugged in, meaning minimal set-up effort is required when you’re ready to start charging. The tethered cable will most likely be stored wrapped around the charging unit, although some units such as the Andersen A2 are cleverly designed so that the cable is hidden out of sight. As it’s permanently attached to the unit, a tethered cable also offers increased security in comparison to an untethered cable.  

The cable is usually included in the price of the charging unit, although if you want a longer cable than standard this may have additional charge. Most manufacturers provide a 5 metre cable, but they can vary from 4 to 10 metres, so it’s worth checking how far your EV will be parked from the charge point.  

You’ll also need to make sure to get the correct connection type for your EV. Tethered chargers will only have one connection type, Type 1 or Type 2, which means if you change EVs in the future, you may have to also update your charging unit. However, as the majority of new EVs use a Type 2 connection, this becomes less of a concern. 

Quick look - untethered EV chargers 

Untethered charger pros: 

• Untethered chargers provide flexibility. If you need a different cable length or connection type, you can change your charging cable without having to replace the whole unit.

• They keep things tidy. Store the cable away when it's not in use for a more aesthetically pleasing unit. 
  

Untethered charger cons: 

• You’ll most likely have to purchase the cable separately from the untethered charging unit. 

• Untethered cables can be less convenient, as you have to attach the cable to the charger and your EV each time you want to charge.  

All about untethered chargers 

Untethered chargers offer improved flexibility, as they don’t have a charging cable attached. You can choose or change the length and connection of your charging cable as needed, without having to change the whole unit. 

You’ll have to purchase your charging cable separately when buying an untethered charging unit, but you can take advantage of using this detachable cable when travelling. This also means your untethered charger can be used by all EVs, regardless of the connection type, as long as the owner has the correct cable. 

The detachable cable means untethered charging units can look more discreet than tethered chargers, as the cable can be unplugged and tidied away when not in use. Although, some users may find having to plug the cable in each time they charge inconvenient.

Is tethered or untethered best? 

Whether you choose a tethered or untethered charging unit is ultimately down to preference. There are plenty of powerful tethered and untethered options that will keep your EV charged up and on the road. 

If you’d like some advice, get in touch with your local team who can help you decide which home EV charger is best suited for you.

Browse all the EV charging options available for installation by Mr Charger.