What is the difference between tethered and untethered EV chargers?

As an electric vehicle (EV) owner or potential owner in Ireland, you’ll probably be considering home charging solutions to enhance your convenience. With several options to choose from, it’s essential to grasp the distinctions between tethered and untethered chargers, so you can decide which one is best suited to your needs. At myenergi, we’re dedicated to offering you a comprehensive guide tailored for the Irish market, ensuring you make an informed decision about the perfect home EV charger for you.

Tethered vs. Untethered Chargers: The Key Difference

The primary distinction between a tethered EV charger and untethered EV charger lies in the charging cable. Tethered chargers feature a permanently attached cable, while untethered chargers offer a detachable one.

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Is a tethered EV charger more expensive than untethered?

When evaluating the costs of tethered and untethered EV chargers in the Irish market, it’s important to note that tethered chargers generally have a higher upfront cost since the cable is included in the price. On the other hand, untethered chargers are initially less expensive, but you may need to buy a charging cable separately, which could reduce the price difference. However, it’s worth mentioning that the zappi, a specific model, is priced the same regardless of whether it is tethered or untethered. This makes the zappi an ideal solution for both scenarios, ensuring flexibility and convenience for Irish EV owners.

Is a tethered EV charger more secure?

Tethered chargers provide enhanced security compared to untethered chargers in the Irish market, thanks to their permanently attached cable, which prevents theft. On the other hand, untethered chargers with detachable cables are more susceptible to theft. However, many models offer additional security features such as pin protection or cable locking to mitigate this risk. To ensure the safety of the cable, it is advisable to disconnect and store it out of sight when it is not in use. This precaution helps to safeguard your charging equipment and prevents unauthorized access or theft.

What is a tethered EV charger?

Tethered chargers have gained popularity among EV owners in Ireland primarily due to their convenience. With a tethered charger, you can easily unwind the cable from the charging unit and plug it directly into your vehicle’s charging port, similar to using a petrol or diesel pump. The charging cable is included as part of the unit’s overall cost, eliminating the need for a separate purchase.

While the convenience factor often influences EV owners to opt for tethered chargers, it’s important to be aware of their limitations. One limitation is the fixed cable length, which may restrict charging flexibility depending on the location of the charging unit and the position of your vehicle. Additionally, compatibility issues may arise if your vehicle requires a different connector type, such as Type 1 or Type 2, than what is provided by the tethered charger. It’s essential to ensure compatibility between the charger and your vehicle to avoid any compatibility-related challenges.

What are the pros of a tethered EV charger?

Charging cable included in the unit’s price
Convenient charging process
Reduced risk of cable theft

What are the cons of a tethered EV charger?

Limited cable length provided by the manufacturer
Restricted to either Type 1 or Type 2 charging connections so if you change your car in the future, you would need to ensure you still buy the same ‘type’ or purchase a new charger.

What is an untethered EV charger?

Untethered chargers, featuring detachable cables, provide a greater level of flexibility for EV owners in Ireland. They allow you to use either your own charging cable or the one that comes with your electric vehicle. This flexibility enables you to take the cable with you for public charging or accommodate guests who need to charge their EVs at your home.

Despite their flexibility, untethered chargers are generally considered less convenient compared to tethered chargers, as they require you to connect and disconnect the cable each time you charge. However, they offer the advantage of being more future-proof. If you need a longer cable or a different connector type in the future, you can simply replace the cable without having to purchase an entirely new charging unit.

Moreover, untethered chargers can contribute to a neater aesthetic, as the detachable cable can be disconnected and stored out of sight when not in use. This helps maintain a tidier appearance in your charging area while keeping the cable protected and easily accessible when needed.

What are the benefits of an untethered EV charger?

Easily replaceable charging cable
Tidier appearance when not in use
Greater flexibility for charging on the go

What are the drawbacks of an untethered charger?

Charging cable often sold separately
Less convenient than tethered chargers
Potential need for regular cleaning and secure storage

Both tethered and untethered chargers have their pros and cons, so carefully consider your specific needs and usage patterns before making a decision. Replacing a charger can be expensive, so gather as much information as possible to make an informed choice.

Tethered units are generally more convenient for home charging, while untethered units offer increased flexibility, with their detachable cables usable both at home and on public chargers.

Ultimately, the best charger for you depends on your individual preferences, requirements, and charging habits. Take the time to evaluate both options to find the ideal home EV charging solution for your lifestyle.