Choosing the right EV charger for your home can save you hundreds of pounds a year, reduce charging hassle, and future-proof your setup as energy prices change. This guide explains what to buy, why it matters, and which chargers are best in the UK, based on expert reviews and real-world use.
Summary
For most UK households, the best EV charger is a 7kW smart charger with smart tariff integration.
Choose tethered for convenience or untethered for flexibility.
Top brands include Ohme, Wallbox, Hypervolt, and Zappi, with Zappi best for solar and Ohme best for smart tariffs like Octopus Intelligent.
Why Choosing the Right EV Charger Matters
A home EV charger is not just a plug — it’s a smart energy device that affects:
- Charging speed
- Electricity costs
- Solar and battery optimisation
- Compatibility with smart tariffs
- Future EV upgrades
The wrong charger can limit savings even if you’re on a cheap tariff.
1. EV Charger Types Explained
Level 1 vs Level 2 Charging
| Charger Type | Power | Miles per Hour | Suitability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 (3-pin plug) | ~2.3kW | 6–8 miles | Emergency / temporary |
| Level 2 (Home charger) | 7kW | 25–30 miles | Best for home use |
Verdict:
👉 A Level 2 (240V / 7kW) charger is essential for home charging in the UK.
2. What Is the Best Charging Speed for Home?
7kW Is the Sweet Spot
- Fully charges most EVs overnight (6–8 hours)
- Compatible with nearly all UK homes
- Matches the UK single-phase power supply
- Supported by all major EVs
Higher power (11kW or 22kW) usually requires three-phase electricity, which most homes don’t have.
3. Tethered vs Untethered Chargers
| Feature | Tethered | Untethered |
|---|---|---|
| Cable attached | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Convenience | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Flexibility | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Visual appearance | Bulkier | Cleaner |
| Future-proofing | Limited | Better |
Recommendation:
- Choose tethered if you want maximum convenience
- Choose untethered if you may change cars or want a cleaner look
4. Smart Features You Should Not Skip
A modern EV charger should include:
- App control
- Scheduled charging
- Energy usage tracking
- Smart tariff integration
- Over-the-air updates
Smart Tariff Integration (Critical)
If you use tariffs like:
…your charger must integrate properly to unlock cheap overnight rates.
Best brands for smart tariffs:
✅ Ohme
✅ Wallbox
✅ Hypervolt
✅ Zappi
✅ Indra
5. Best Home EV Chargers in the UK (2025)
Top-Rated Models (Expert Consensus)
| Charger | Smart Tariffs | Solar | Type | Typical Price* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ohme Home Pro | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ❌ | Tethered | £575–£650 |
| Ohme ePod | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ❌ | Untethered | £525–£600 |
| Wallbox Pulsar Plus | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ❌ | Both | £500–£650 |
| Hypervolt Home 3 Pro | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ❌ | Tethered | £650–£700 |
| Zappi v2 | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Both | £700–£850 |
| Tesla Universal Wall Connector | ⭐⭐⭐ | ❌ | Tethered | £475–£550 |
*Prices exclude installation and may vary by installer.
6. Best Charger by Use Case
Best Overall for Smart Tariffs
Ohme Home Pro / ePod
- Direct integration with Octopus
- Excellent app experience
- Automatic cheap-rate optimisation
Best for Solar Panels
Zappi v2
- Diverts excess solar to your car
- Works with batteries and export tariffs
- Ideal for energy-independent homes
Best Compact & Stylish Charger
Wallbox Pulsar Plus
- Small footprint
- Reliable performance
- Strong smart features
Best for Tesla Owners
Tesla Universal Wall Connector
- Seamless Tesla integration
- Works with non-Tesla EVs
- Excellent value
7. Installation Considerations
Hardwired vs Plug-In
| Option | Best For |
|---|---|
| Hardwired | Outdoor installs, long-term use |
| Plug-in (rare in UK) | Garages with dedicated socket |
Most UK installations are hardwired and completed by a certified installer.
Typical Installation Cost (UK)
- £800–£1,200 including charger
- Complex installs may cost more
- Older homes may need electrical upgrades
8. Recommended Setup for Most Homes
7kW smart charger + smart tariff + scheduled charging
This setup delivers:
- Lowest charging costs
- Minimal effort
- Maximum compatibility
- Future flexibility
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