Tesla Wall Connector vs NEMA 14-50 | Which Should You Buy?
🔑 Key Takeaways:
1️⃣ The Tesla Wall Connector is hardwired only.
2️⃣ The Mobile Connector has both 14-50 outlet and 5-15 outlet adapters (240v-120v)
3️⃣ The hardwired option is faster than the mobile EV charger
4️⃣ Both need to be purchased separately
The Tesla Wall Connector will charge faster than the mobile NEMA 14-50 connector, but it is also more expensive.
If you are doing less than 100 miles per day with your electric vehicle, then the NEMA 14-50 would be suitable, but more than that, I would recommend the Tesla Wall Connector.
![Tesla Wall Connector [Hardwired] 48-Amp](https://ev-america.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/319Y1X1IvL._SL500_.webp)
Tesla Wall Connector [Hardwired] 48-Amp
- Charge in as little as 7 hours
- 11.5 kW power output for a single vehicle
- Indoor and outdoor installation approved
- No integration with other home energy systems
As specialists in all things EV, we examine and contrast these two chargers to give you all the EV home charging information you need to make a properly informed decision.
From charging time, cost, aesthetics, and durability, we will put both of these units under the microscope and evaluate the pros and cons of each, so you can decide which would be a better option to install in your garage and have years of hassle-free charging.
Charging Speed
I will go with the Tesla Wall Connector if you need a faster charging time because the charging rate on this unit is about 20% faster than the NEMA 14-50.
If you compare them directly, the Tesla model 3R and the Y, S, and X model average around 10-14mph more per hour than the NEMA 14-50.
For example, when we compare charging rates on the latest Model 3LR to the NEMA 14-50, the NEMA delivers around 30mph.
While the Wall Connector provides 44mph in charge, where you need mileage quickly, the Wall Connector wins!
If you have a Model 3 standard, then the NEMA14-50 or the wall connector will be sufficient.
Price
For level 2 charging, you will need a 240v electrical supply. If cost is your primary consideration and charging time is not an issue, I suggest the Mobile Connector, which is 50% cheaper than the Wall Connector.
Tesla’s new Gen 3 charger is $500, which is the same price as the Gen 2, but this one comes with quite a few more features and requires more accessories than its predecessor.
Aside from the cost of the charger itself, installing the hardwired option could be as high as $2500 as the required certification and electrician will increase the cost substantially.
As for the NEMA 14-50, you will need a 50A breaker (GFCI) because you will need a 240v electrical supply to provide level 2 charging, while level 1 charging can be done on a 110v/120v supply, and you can charge a Tesla using a regular outlet.
As far as price is concerned, a mobile charger would be the more cost-effective choice, as long as you have an existing NEMA 14-50 outlet in your garage.
Which One Looks Better?
When it comes to aesthetics, the Wall Connector wins this category, hands down. It is sleek and stylish and adds a sense of sophistication and elegance to your garage.
Tesla’s NEMA version is a functional, practical, and cost-effective charger. But it does not deliver when it comes to blending into the curves and contours of the Tesla’s hardwired home charger.
But Tesla isn’t your only option if you want a charging station that exudes elegance and design. Competitors such as ChargePoint, JuiceBox, and Wallbox all make great-looking alternatives:
⚖️ Compare these home charging stations:
JuiceBox vs ChargePoint
Wallbox vs ChargePoint
Wallbox vs JuiceBox
Which One Will Last Longer?
Each of these systems will last in terms of durability, but this will depend on external factors like the current supply, wiring integrity, quality, and electrical supply source.
If you want your charger to last, you need to ensure that your installation complies with the recommended standards, and while this may cost more, the investment in charging performance and safety will be well worth it.
As far as which will last longer, this category is a tie, but if you have a Tesla EV, then using the Tesla Wall Charger specified for your EV will be a better option for performance and durability.
Hardwired Or Mobile?
When looking at these two options, the real question is whether to opt for the hardwired installation of the Tesla Wall Connector or the versatility of the mobile wall charger.
Tesla’s introduction of the mobile wall charger with the NEMA 14-50 plug makes it easy for Tesla owners to keep the mobile unit fixed in place as their primary home charger.
As of April 2022, Tesla no longer includes the Mobile Connector with vehicle purchases but offers new owners a reduced price for the charger. So essentially, the company is pushing buyers to purchase the hardwired wall charger.
While the NEMA 14-50 is 20% slower than its hardwired counterpart, it is still a viable option. Their mobile charger will deliver 40 amps for models S, X, and 3 Long Range vehicles.
The Standard Range and Model 3 Mid Range vehicles will charge at 32 amps using the mobile connector and NEMA 14-50 plug.
We recommend buying the hardwired option if there is no existing 14-50 receptacle in your garage. If you do, then the mobile charger is literally plug-and-play!
FAQs
Can You Connect A NEMA 14-50 To A Tesla Wall Charger?
Yes, you can technically connect a NEMA 14-50 to a Tesla wall charger called the Mobile Connector (now sold separately).
However, you can no longer connect the Tesla Wall Connector to a 14-50 outlet since they ended this feature with the Gen 2.
So connecting your Tesla via a NEMA 14-50 socket is possible using the correct adaptor, but this will not charge as efficiently as the hardwired wall connection.
Remember that powerful electrical currents course through these systems (far more than in your conventional home electrical systems), so the fewer connections involved- the better.
If you have spent the money and invested in a Gen 3 Tesla Wall Charger, there would be no reason to add the NEMA 14-50 unless you change your EV to another brand and need the NEMA 14-50 as the charging connection.
Even then, you could still use your Gen 3 and buy a Telsa to J1772 adapter to charge other EV brands.
Lectron Tesla to J1772 Adapter
- Allows charging from AC Tesla chargers
- Portable and lightweight
- UL certified with 1-year warranty
Does The Tesla Mobile Connector Come With A 14-50?
Originally, the Tesla Mobile connector was supplied with a NEMA 5-15, which was for 110v supply, but they are now provided with the NEMA 14-50 adapter and have been since 2019.
If you had a NEMA 14-50 charging socket already installed for another EV and then bought a Tesla, the Mobile connector would allow you to connect using the NEMA 14-50 plug and deliver optimum charging for your EV.
Verdict: Tesla Wall Connector vs NEMA 14-50
Whether mobile or hardwired, Tesla wall chargers offer incredible charging speeds and are better suited to Tesla models. While the NEMA 14-50 charger will charge your EV effectively, it will be slower than the Wall Connector.
The NEMA 14-50 will be cheaper, so if you have depleted funds or little budget left over from your EV purchase, this will be a more cost-effective charging option.
Provided the installation is compliant with a consistent power supply and suitable wiring, both charging options will last their lifetime. Still, the Tesla Wall Connector has overall better aesthetics than the NEMA version, so if the style is essential, then the Wall Connector is the winner.
Overall, I’d recommend the Tesla Wall Connector as it delivers more on all levels than the NEMA 14-50, and the investment will be worth it.
Tesla Wall Connector [Hardwired] 48-Amp
- Charge in as little as 7 hours
- 11.5 kW power output for a single vehicle
- Indoor and outdoor installation approved
- No integration with other home energy systems
