Choosing a portable EV charger may look simple, but charging speed depends on much more than the charger itself.
Your electrical voltage, wall outlet, charging connector, vehicle and available current can all affect how quickly your EV charges.
And the answer is different depending on whether you live in the United States or the United Kingdom.
In this guide, we'll explain 120V vs 240V EV charging, NEMA 5-15 vs NEMA 6-20, J1772, Type 1, Type 2 and portable home charging so you can choose the right setup.
USA: A compatible 240V outlet such as NEMA 6-20 can provide considerably more charging power than a standard 120V household outlet.
UK: Type 2 is common on newer EVs, while some older vehicles use Type 1/J1772.
120V household charging vs compatible 240V EV charging.
What Is a Portable EV Charger?
A portable EV charger allows you to carry your charging equipment with you instead of relying exclusively on a permanently installed wall charger.
It can provide additional flexibility for charging at home, in a garage or while travelling — as long as a compatible electrical connection is available.
120V vs 240V EV Charging
One of the most important factors affecting home EV charging speed in the United States is the available voltage.
A standard household outlet usually provides approximately 120V. A compatible higher-voltage circuit can provide approximately 240V and substantially increase the power available to a compatible EV charger.
| Outlet | Voltage Class | Rating | EV Charging |
|---|---|---|---|
| NEMA 5-15 | 125V | 15A | Standard household / slower charging |
| NEMA 6-20 | 250V | 20A | Faster charging with compatible equipment |
NEMA 5-15 vs NEMA 6-20: What's the Difference?
The NEMA 5-15 is the familiar household outlet found throughout the United States.
It is convenient because it is widely available, but its lower voltage generally means slower EV charging.
The NEMA 6-20 provides access to a higher-voltage electrical supply. For a compatible EV charger, this can provide significantly more charging power.
Do You Have This Outlet?
A compatible 240V NEMA 6-20 outlet allows the Auto Speed Shop Portable EV Charger to operate at up to 16A and approximately 3.8kW, depending on the vehicle and electrical installation.
Make Better Use of Your 240V Outlet
The Auto Speed Shop Portable Type 1 J1772 EV Charger offers adjustable 8A / 10A / 13A / 16A charging and up to approximately 3.8kW with a compatible power supply and vehicle.
VIEW PORTABLE EV CHARGER →See Portable EV Charging in Action
From the outlet to your vehicle, a portable charger gives you a simple way to keep your EV ready for the road.
What Is a J1772 EV Charger?
SAE J1772, also known as Type 1, is an AC charging connector commonly associated with electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids in North America.
Before purchasing any portable EV charger, check the charging inlet on your vehicle.
Does Your EV Have This Charging Port?
If your EV uses a Type 1 / SAE J1772 charging inlet, this is the vehicle-side connector you should look for when choosing a portable charger.
Portable EV Charging in the UK
EV charging connections in the United Kingdom differ from those commonly used in the United States.
Type 2 is common on newer electric vehicles in the UK and Europe, while some older EV models may use a Type 1 / J1772 charging inlet.
UK drivers should always confirm their vehicle's connector and electrical supply before purchasing charging equipment.
| Connector | Also Known As | Common Usage |
|---|---|---|
| Type 1 | SAE J1772 | North America and some older UK EVs |
| Type 2 | IEC Type 2 | Common on newer UK and European EVs |
Why Carry a Portable EV Charger?
The biggest advantage is flexibility.
Instead of leaving your charging solution permanently attached to one wall, a portable charger can travel with your vehicle and be available when a compatible charging connection is accessible.
🎁 FREE EV Charger Storage Bag
Order your Portable EV Charger today and receive a storage bag to keep your charger and cable organized in your vehicle.
GET MY CHARGER + FREE BAG →How to Choose the Right Portable EV Charger
Check Your EV Port
Confirm whether your vehicle uses Type 1/J1772, Type 2 or another connector.
Check Your Voltage
Charging performance depends heavily on the electrical supply available.
Check Your Outlet
The plug must match a properly installed and compatible outlet.
Check Charging Current
Vehicle, charger and electrical circuit limits must all be considered.
Portable EV Charger FAQ
Is NEMA 6-20 good for EV charging?
A properly installed NEMA 6-20 outlet can provide a useful 240V charging source for compatible portable EV charging equipment.
Is 240V EV charging faster than 120V?
With compatible equipment and a suitable vehicle, 240V charging can provide substantially more charging power than a standard 120V household connection.
What is a J1772 charger?
J1772, also known as Type 1, is an AC EV charging connector widely associated with North American electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids.
Do UK electric cars use J1772?
Some older UK EVs use Type 1/J1772, while Type 2 is common on newer UK and European electric vehicles.
Can I carry my EV charger in the car?
Yes. Portability is one of the primary benefits of portable EV charging equipment. A storage bag can help keep the charger and cable organized during travel.
How powerful is the Auto Speed Shop Portable EV Charger?
The charger supports adjustable 8A, 10A, 13A and 16A charging and can reach approximately 3.8kW when used with an appropriate compatible power supply and vehicle.
Charge at Home.
Stay Ready for the Road.
Portable Type 1 J1772 EV charging with adjustable current and up to approximately 3.8kW with a compatible 240V electrical supply.