The Difference Between Tethered and Untethered EV Chargers

For anyone installing an EV charger at home, one of the most important decisions is whether to choose a tethered or untethered unit. While both serve the same purpose of charging your electric vehicle safely and efficiently, the way the charging cable is managed differs. This seemingly small detail can have a big impact on convenience, practicality, and even the long-term suitability of your installation. Understanding the pros and cons of each option will help you decide which is best for your household.

What is a tethered EV charger?

A tethered EV charger comes with a charging cable permanently attached to the unit. The cable is usually coiled or stored on a holster attached to the wall. To charge your car, you simply unwind the cable and plug it into your vehicle. Tethered chargers are available in various cable lengths, with five metres being the most common, though longer cables can be ordered for larger driveways.

What is an untethered EV charger?

An untethered EV charger, sometimes called a socket-only charger, has no fixed cable. Instead, you plug in your vehicle’s own cable every time you charge. This means the unit itself is more compact, and when not in use, it looks tidier. Drivers who choose this option keep their charging cable in the car, ready to be used whenever needed.

Convenience and ease of use

One of the biggest advantages of tethered chargers is convenience. Because the cable is always attached, you do not need to retrieve it from your car or untangle it before each charging session. For daily use, this saves time and effort, making it the more practical option for many households. Untethered chargers, on the other hand, require you to plug in your own cable every time. While this only adds a minute or two, it can feel less convenient for those charging regularly.

Flexibility and compatibility

Untethered chargers offer greater flexibility because you can use different cables depending on the vehicle. This is particularly useful if you have multiple electric cars in the household, or if you want the option to lend your charger to a guest with a different plug type. Most modern EVs in the UK use Type 2 connectors, but some older models still use Type 1. With an untethered charger, you can simply swap cables to match. A tethered charger, by contrast, is fixed to one connector type, so if your next car has a different plug, the charger may need replacing or adapting.

Appearance and storage

Some homeowners prefer the tidy appearance of an untethered charger. When not in use, the unit sits flush against the wall with no trailing cable, creating a neat and unobtrusive look. Tethered chargers can look bulkier, and while many come with cable management systems, the cable can still appear messy if not stored carefully. For those who value a minimalist aesthetic, untethered options often fit better with modern property designs.

Security considerations

One potential drawback of untethered chargers is that the cable can be removed and taken elsewhere, which means it could be lost or stolen. Tethered chargers avoid this issue because the cable is permanently attached to the unit. However, some untethered chargers are fitted with security features such as lockable sockets or the ability to disable charging through an app, reducing the risk of unauthorised use.

Cost differences

In general, tethered and untethered chargers are similar in price, though tethered units sometimes cost slightly more because they include the cable. With an untethered charger, you will need to supply your own cable, which adds to the overall cost if you do not already have one. That said, many EVs come with a charging cable as standard, so for most owners, this is not a major issue.

Practicality in daily use

For households where charging is frequent and always done in the same spot, a tethered charger offers the most practical solution. You simply park, plug in, and start charging without hassle. For those who value flexibility, perhaps with more than one EV in the family, an untethered charger may be more practical in the long run. If you often take your cable with you for use at public charging stations, an untethered system ensures you always have it available.

Future-proofing considerations

Thinking ahead is important when investing in an EV charger. A tethered charger with a Type 2 connector will suit the vast majority of vehicles today and is likely to remain compatible for many years, as Type 2 has become the standard in Europe. However, if you want to be prepared for any changes in charging standards or if you regularly have different EVs at your property, an untethered charger provides more adaptability.

Which option suits your home?

The right choice often comes down to your personal circumstances. If you want maximum convenience and do not mind being tied to a specific cable type, a tethered charger is the easiest solution. If you prefer a minimalist look, want flexibility with different vehicles, or do not want a cable permanently attached to your wall, an untethered charger may suit you better. Both options provide safe and efficient charging when installed by a qualified professional.

Conclusion

The difference between tethered and untethered EV chargers lies mainly in convenience, flexibility, and appearance. Tethered chargers provide quick and easy charging with the cable always ready to use, while untethered chargers offer greater adaptability and a tidier appearance when not in use. Neither is inherently better than the other; the right choice depends on your household, your vehicle, and your preferences. By considering how often you charge, what vehicles you own, and how important aesthetics are to you, you can make the right decision for your home.