Electric vehicles (EVs) are growing in popularity as more people look for cleaner and cheaper ways to travel. One key part of owning an EV is charging it. Choosing the right car charging rate can help save money and time while keeping your vehicle ready to go.
Car charging rates vary depending on where and how you charge. Some chargers offer lower prices during off-peak hours, while others charge more but work faster. Understanding these rates is important because they affect your overall cost of driving an electric vehicle.
When looking at car charging rates, people should pay attention to price per kilowatt-hour, time of use, and whether the charger is Level 1, 2, or DC fast charging. These factors influence both the speed of charging and the cost. We explored many options to find the best car charging rates for different needs and situations.
Contents
Best Car Charging Rates
We have reviewed the top car chargers based on speed, reliability, and value. Our list helps you find the best options to keep your vehicle charged efficiently. Below are the chargers that stand out in the current market.
Estbuc Retractable Car Charger
This charger is a solid choice for those who want fast charging with tidy cables and a reliable fit in most vehicles.
Pros
- Keeps cables neat and untangled with retractable design
- Charges up to four devices fast simultaneously
- Stays securely in place on bumpy roads
Cons
- Slightly bulky compared to simpler chargers
- Only fits cigarette lighter sockets, not USB ports
- Charging cables may feel a bit short for some users
Using this charger felt straightforward and convenient. The retractable cords really help avoid a mess of wires, and pulling them out was smooth every time. It’s great for quick powering up of phones and gadgets while on the go.
We liked that it delivered fast charging speeds to multiple devices without slowing down. The voltage display reassured us about the car battery’s health, which is a nice extra feature.
However, it is a bit heavier than other chargers we’ve tried and doesn’t work with USB-only car ports. The cable length is good for most cases but might not reach everywhere in larger cars. Overall, it’s a sturdy and smart choice when you need multiple fast charges on the road.
Anker 167.5W USB-C Car Charger
This charger stands out for delivering strong power across three ports, making it a solid choice for anyone needing to charge multiple devices fast while on the road.
Pros
- Charges laptop and phone quickly at the same time
- Compact size fits neatly in any car
- Supports newer models like iPhone 17 and MacBook Pro
Cons
- Can get a bit warm during use
- Some users reported early failure after weeks
- Draws power even when car is off if still plugged in
We found the Anker 167.5W USB-C Car Charger really handy for long drives. The 100W USB-C port gave our MacBook Pro a quick power boost, and having two more ports let us charge phones and other gear without slowing down. It felt solid and didn’t clutter the console.
The charger’s smaller size surprised us since it handles so much power. It stayed mostly cool, though sometimes it warmed up a bit with heavy use. The build quality feels premium, and the included USB-C cable is a nice bonus.
One thing to watch is that it can drain your car battery if left plugged in when the engine is off. Also, a few people had issues after a short period, but many praised its overall reliability. This charger fits well into any setup for fast charging on the go.
SUPERONE Retractable Car Charger
This charger is a great choice if you want fast, organized charging for multiple devices on the go.
Pros
- Retractable cables keep the car neat
- Fast charging for up to four devices at once
- Voltage display helps monitor car battery health
Cons
- Cables could be longer for some users
- The charger can feel bulky in tighter spaces
- Occasionally stops charging or overheats
We found the retractable cables to be really handy. They prevent the mess that usually comes with cords in the car. It’s smart how the charger adjusts 180 degrees to fit easily in various sockets.
The charging speed impressed us. Phones and tablets powered up quickly with both USB-C and USB-A ports. Having four devices charged at once made family trips much less stressful.
Some issues did come up. The charger can get warm and sometimes stops working temporarily. The cables aren’t very long, which might not suit everyone’s seating arrangement. Still, its safety features and easy storage made it a reliable daily driver.
SUPERONE Retractable Car Charger 4-in-1
This charger offers a smart solution for fast charging multiple devices while keeping your car neat and organized.
Pros
- Retractable cables reduce clutter inside the car.
- Supports fast charging for up to four devices at once.
- Voltage display helps monitor car battery health easily.
Cons
- Charger only works for charging, not CarPlay.
- Retractable cables are good but may wear out with heavy use.
- The plug can feel slightly loose in some car models.
We found the retractable cords very handy for keeping wires tidy and easy to use. It’s nice not to have cords tangled or stuffed into the glove compartment.
Charging speed really impressed us, especially with the dedicated fast charging ports. Plugging in multiple phones and tablets at the same time didn’t slow down the power output.
The battery voltage display can be a useful extra for anyone wanting to keep an eye on their car’s health. While it’s not a replacement for professional tools, it does give a quick check during trips.
We recommend this if you want a clean, fast, and multi-device charger for your car. It’s a simple upgrade that works well.
LISEN Retractable Car Charger
This charger stands out for its compact design and fast charging speed, making it a practical choice for everyday use in cars.
Pros
- Very compact and space-saving design
- Fast charging with a retractable USB-C cable
- Charges multiple devices at once safely
Cons
- Retractable cable can sometimes disconnect at odd angles
- Only works with iPhone 15 and newer models among iPhones
- Cord sticks out a bit more than expected
We found the compact size of this charger very useful, especially since it doesn’t block the gear shift in most cars. The retractable cable keeps things tidy and lets us adjust the length to what we need, which is great on trips or in small spaces.
Charging speed felt fast, reaching 80% on newer phones in about half an hour. It also lets us charge three devices at the same time using the USB-C and USB-A ports, which is handy for families or groups.
The cable retraction works well but can be a little fiddly if you pull it at a weird angle. Still, the safety protections built into the charger give us confidence that it won’t damage our devices. Overall, it’s a solid, everyday charger to have in the car.
MRGLAS 125W Car Charger
We recommend this charger for anyone who needs very fast charging in a small, durable package.
Pros
- Charges devices quickly with two powerful ports
- Compact size fits nicely without sticking out
- Strong metal build helps with heat and lasts longer
Cons
- Text on charger can be hard to read
- Only two USB ports might limit for some users
- Slightly heavier than plastic chargers
Plugging this charger into our car felt reassuring right away. It fits perfectly into the cigarette lighter socket and stays put without wobbling or popping out when driving over bumps. The pull-ring design really helps when it’s time to unplug, so you don’t have to struggle to remove it.
We noticed the fast charging capability immediately. Our phones and tablets charged at a speed we rarely get with other chargers. Even larger devices like laptops got a good boost. The charger did get warm during heavy use, but the metal body kept it from overheating.
While it’s small, the weight makes it feel sturdy, unlike lighter plastic models. The blue light looks nice but not too bright to distract while driving. Overall, this charger is a reliable choice for fast charging on the go without bulk.
AINOPE Fast Car Charger
This charger delivers fast, reliable power with a tough metal design that lasts longer than typical plastic chargers.
Pros
- Charges devices quickly and safely
- Compact size fits well in any car
- Durable metal body resists burnouts
Cons
- Metal case can get warm during use
- Doesn’t sit perfectly flush in all sockets
- Only two USB ports, might limit some users
We appreciated how compact this charger is. It barely sticks out of the socket and fits easily in tight spaces inside the car. The metal build feels solid and gave us confidence it would hold up over time.
Charging speed met our expectations for both Android and iPhone devices. We never had to wait long to get back to full battery, even when charging two phones at once. Safety features helped us avoid worries about overheating.
While the metal shell did get warm, it stayed within safe limits and actually helped keep things from overheating more than plastic chargers. The only minor annoyance was that it didn’t always fit perfectly flush in every car’s cigarette lighter socket.
Overall, if you want a fast, sturdy charger for everyday use, the AINOPE Fast Car Charger is worth considering.
Anker PowerDrive III Duo
This car charger is a solid choice for fast and reliable charging on the go, especially when you need to power two devices at once.
Pros
- Charges two USB-C devices quickly without slowing down
- Compact design fits well without blocking other dashboard controls
- Broad compatibility with iPhones and other USB-C gadgets
Cons
- Charging speed can drop slightly when both ports are in use
- Slightly larger head makes unplugging a bit tricky in tight spaces
- Limited to USB-C ports only, no USB-A support
We found this charger works reliably every time we plug in. The dual USB-C ports let us charge a phone and tablet simultaneously without losing much power. It’s nice not having to choose which device gets priority during a quick stop.
Its compact size means it doesn’t get in the way. Unlike bulkier chargers, it fits cleanly in the car’s charging slot, leaving room to adjust knobs or use other ports nearby. We liked that it didn’t stick out awkwardly.
One thing to note is the charging speed feels highest when only one device is connected. When two are charging, power delivery shares between them. It’s not a big deal for most users but worth knowing if speed is a priority. Overall, the PowerDrive III Duo handles daily use well without overheating or failing.
For anyone needing a dependable dual USB-C car charger, this is a reliable pick that won’t disappoint.
AILKIN Dual USB Car Charger
This charger is a solid choice if you want to power two devices quickly and safely on the go.
Pros
- Charges two devices at full speed without slowing down
- Built-in safety features protect phones from overheating and overcharging
- Compact design fits well in most car cigarette lighter sockets
Cons
- Ports are USB-A, no USB-C fast charging option
- Blue LED light stays on constantly, which might distract some
- Charging speed can vary slightly depending on device
We tested this charger in our daily commute and found it reliable for keeping our phones and tablets charged at the same time. The charging speed is consistent and enough for everyday needs, though it’s not the fastest compared to USB-C power delivery chargers.
Its small size and fireproof shell make it feel sturdy and safe. The all-day blue LED indicator confirms it’s active, but it could be a little distracting in very dark cars at night.
Overall, the AILKIN Dual USB Car Charger is a dependable, affordable option if you want fast, safe charging for two devices without the need for the latest USB-C tech.
Anker 52.5W Car Charger
This charger is a solid pick for anyone wanting to charge two devices fast and safely while on the road.
Pros
- Charges two devices at the same time with good speed
- Works well with a wide range of phones and tablets
- Offers smart temperature control for safety
Cons
- The bright LED light can be distracting at night
- USB-C port may not work perfectly with some newer iPhones
- A few users reported rare power issues after weeks of use
We found the Anker 52.5W charger easy to use right away. Plugging in our phone and tablet, both charged quickly without any fuss. The two-port design lets us keep a phone and dashcam powered without swapping cables.
The temperature control gave us extra confidence charging longer trips. However, the blue light was a bit too bright inside the car at night, which some might want to cover up. Also, not every phone behaves great on the USB-C port, which is something to keep in mind.
Overall, this Anker charger blends solid speed and device protection in a compact unit. It’s reliable for fast charging two gadgets, making it a good upgrade for daily drivers.
Buying Guide
When we look for the best car charging rates, we need to consider several key factors. The first is charging speed. Faster charging means less time plugged in, but it often costs more. We need to balance speed with price.
Next, we check the types of chargers. There are Level 1, Level 2, and DC fast chargers. Level 1 uses a regular outlet and is the slowest. Level 2 is quicker and common at home or work. DC fast chargers are fastest but usually found at public stations. Knowing your needs helps us pick the right type.
Another thing to look for is compatibility. Not all chargers work with every car. We must ensure the charger can connect to our vehicle’s port. Some chargers offer multiple plugs or adaptors to fit different models.
Price is also important. We want to find a good rate per kWh or per minute. Sometimes a higher upfront cost is worth it for long-term savings.
Features to Compare
| Feature | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Charging Speed | Level of kW output; faster means less time |
| Compatibility | Works with your car’s charging ports |
| Cost | Rate per kWh or minute; check upfront fees |
| Convenience | Location availability; app support |
| Additional Features | Timer, remote control, notifications |
We also should consider ease of use and customer support. A charger that is easy to set up and has good help available makes the experience better for us.
Editor’s Choice
When choosing the best car charging rates, we focus on cost, convenience, and speed. Not all rates are equal, so it’s important to consider how and when you charge.
Flat-rate plans offer a fixed price per kWh, which can be simple to understand. These plans work well if you charge your car regularly.
Time-of-use rates change prices based on the time of day. Charging during off-peak hours can save money. We recommend looking for plans with low nighttime rates.
| Plan Type | Cost per kWh | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Flat-rate | $0.12 | Consistent daily charging |
| Time-of-use | $0.08-$0.20 | Flexible charging times |
| Demand charges | Varies | Commercial/large users |
We prefer plans that reward off-peak charging. This encourages charging when demand is low and costs are cheaper.
Some providers include smart charging apps. These apps let us schedule charging sessions to match cheap rates. This can reduce our electricity bill without much effort.
In our experience, combining low rates with smart timing gives the best value. We suggest reviewing your own usage patterns and local pricing before deciding.
By considering these factors, we can pick a charging plan that fits both our budget and lifestyle.
Where to Buy – Best Amazon Deals
When looking for the best car charging rates, Amazon is a great place to start. They offer a wide range of chargers, from basic models to fast chargers with extra features. We can find reliable brands and competitive prices all in one spot.
Here are a few options worth considering:
| Charger Type | Price Range | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Level 1 | $20 – $50 | Easy to use, portable |
| Level 2 Chargers | $200 – $600 | Faster charging, home use |
| Fast Chargers | $400 – $900+ | Quick top-ups, advanced tech |
Amazon often has sales or discounts, so checking frequently helps us grab the best price. Reviews are helpful, too. We can see what other buyers say about durability and performance before we buy.
Don’t forget to look for deals like Amazon Prime Day or seasonal sales. These sales often lower prices on high-quality chargers.
Remember to compare shipping times and return policies. Getting a charger quickly and with easy returns is important if something doesn’t fit our needs.
In summary, Amazon combines variety, pricing, and customer feedback, which helps us make smart choices for car charging equipment.
FAQS
What affects car charging rates?
Charging rates depend on the type of charger, location, and power speed. Home chargers usually have lower rates than public fast chargers.
Are fast chargers more expensive?
Yes. Fast chargers deliver higher power, so they cost more per kilowatt-hour. But they save time, which some drivers value.
Can we charge at home overnight?
Absolutely. Many electric vehicle (EV) owners charge their cars at night when electricity rates are lower. This can reduce overall charging costs.
Do all stations charge by the same method?
No. Some stations charge by time, others by the amount of energy used (kWh). It’s helpful to check how you will be billed before charging.
| Charging Type | Cost Basis | Cost Range (per kWh or time) |
|---|---|---|
| Home Charging | Per kWh | $0.10 – $0.20 |
| Public Level 2 | Per kWh or per hour | $0.20 – $0.50 |
| Fast Charging | Per kWh or per minute | $0.30 – $0.70 |
Do car models affect charging speed?
Yes, different EV models have varying maximum charging speeds. Our car’s charger can limit how fast it charges, regardless of the station’s power.
Is charging free anywhere?
Some places offer free charging, but these are rare and often limited in time. We should look for clear terms before relying on free stations.
How can we save money on charging?
Use home charging during off-peak hours and avoid fast chargers for daily charging. Planning helps reduce costs while keeping our car ready to go.
Conclusion
We have seen that car charging rates vary based on location, charging speed, and time of use. Choosing the right plan can save us money and make charging more convenient. It’s important to compare options carefully before deciding.
Many providers offer different rate plans, such as flat fees, time-of-day pricing, or monthly subscriptions. Understanding these options helps us find the best fit for our driving habits. Charging at off-peak hours often comes with lower costs.
We recommend keeping these points in mind:
- Check local rates regularly since they can change.
- Consider your typical driving and charging times.
- Look for plans with clear pricing and no hidden fees.
By doing this, we can make smart choices that help us save on electricity while keeping our cars ready to go. Charging a car is simple when we know the costs and options available. Our goal is to help us all make informed decisions with confidence.