Types of Home EV Charger Explained
The main types of home EV charger — tethered and untethered — plus charging speeds and smart features explained.
- Last reviewed: July 2026
- Reading time: 5 minutes
Key takeaway
Tethered chargers have an attached cable; untethered use your own. Both charge at the same speed and can be smart or solar-ready.
Tethered or untethered
Home chargers come in two main styles. A tethered charger has a cable permanently attached, so you simply pick it up and plug it into your car. An untethered charger has a socket instead, and you use your own cable — which keeps the unit tidy and works with any connector type.
The two main choices
- Tethered: cable attached, quick and easy to use
- Untethered: socket only, tidier and more flexible
- Both charge your car at the same speed
Charging speeds
Most home chargers charge at a speed that comfortably fills your car overnight, which is all the vast majority of drivers ever need. The exact speed depends on your home’s electricity supply and your car, and our team will confirm the right choice during your assessment.
What we recommend
Because every driver and home is different, we never take a one-size-fits-all approach. During your free assessment we look at your car, your driving habits and your home, then recommend the charger type and features that suit you best — including smart and solar options if you want them.
Frequently asked questions
Should I choose tethered or untethered?
It comes down to preference. A tethered charger is quicker to use because the cable is always attached; an untethered one is tidier and works with any cable. Both charge at the same speed. We can help you decide during your assessment.
How fast will it charge my car?
Most home chargers comfortably fill a car overnight, which suits nearly all drivers. The exact speed depends on your electricity supply and your car, which we will confirm during your assessment.
Can I get a smart charger?
Yes. Most modern home chargers are smart, letting you schedule charging for the cheapest times and, in many cases, charge from your solar panels. We will explain the options that suit you.
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Last reviewed: July 2026 · Reviewed by: Warmr EV Charging Team