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Browse 12 AMP EV Chargers
Browse top-rated 12 AMP EV chargers, including Level 1 (120V) and compact Level 2 (240V) options. Compare features, charging speeds, and EV compatibility to find the best fit for your home or on-the-go charging needs.
Best 12 AMP EV Chargers
Searching for the best 12 AMP EV charger? We’ve handpicked the top 4 models of 2025 after extensive testing. Whether you’re charging at home or on the go, these expert-approved chargers offer the perfect balance of performance, safety, and value.
Best Budget 12 Amp EV Charger
Portable Wifi-enabled EV charger
Best Dual Voltage 12A EV Charger
Best Quality 12 Amp Level 1 EV Charger
Comprehensive Safety Features
Best For Tesla Model 3/Y/X/S/Cybertruck
12 Amps Adjustable NACs charger
See All 12 Amp EV Charger (J1772 or Tesla/NACS)
Explore our top-rated 12 AMP Level 1 and Level 2 EV chargers with J1772 or Tesla/NACS connectors. From expert reviews to hands-on testing, find the ideal trickle-charging solution for your EV – perfect for overnight charging and low-power circuits.
What is a Level 12 AMP EV Charger?
A 12 Amp EV charger delivers up to 2.88 kW (Level 2, 240V) or 1.44 kW (Level 1, 120V), depending on the circuit and voltage. It typically provides 3–8 miles of range per hour, making it ideal for overnight charging, light daily use, or situations with limited electrical capacity. These chargers require a dedicated 15A circuit with 14 AWG wiring and must comply with NEC 80% load rules. Depending on the setup, they may be hardwired or plugged into outlets such as NEMA 5-15 (Level 1) or 6-15 (Level 2).
12 Amp Level 1 charger vs 12 Amp Level 2 charger
While both 12 Amp Level 1 and Level 2 chargers draw the same current, their voltage differences result in distinct charging speeds and setup needs.
12 Amp Level 1 Charger
Uses a standard 120V outlet (NEMA 5-15) on a dedicated 15A circuit with 14 AWG wiring. Delivers up to 1.44 kW, adding roughly 2–4 miles of range per hour. Ideal for overnight charging, low-capacity home load panels, and low-mileage drivers who don’t need fast turnaround. Easy to install using common household outlets; GFCI protection and proper grounding are essential for safety
12 Amp Level 2 Charger
Uses a 240V outlet (typically NEMA 6-15) on a dedicated 15A double-pole circuit with 14 AWG copper wiring. Delivers up to 2.88 kW, adding 3–8 miles of range per hour. Well-suited for overnight charging or light daily driving needs where electrical capacity is limited. It may be hardwired or plug-in, with GFCI protection required and compliance with NEC standards for circuit load, wire sizing, and installation safety. Professional installation is recommended if a 240V outlet is not already in place.
12 Amp Level 1 EV Charger Circuits
A 12 Amp Level 1 EV charger must be connected to a dedicated 120V circuit using a single-pole 15A breaker. The circuit should be wired with 14 AWG solid copper conductors (hot and neutral) and a 14 AWG copper ground, rated for at least 75°C insulation (THHN or equivalent). These chargers typically use a standard NEMA 5-15P outlet. GFCI protection is required in most residential installations and must be installed per local electrical codes.
NEMA 5-15P 12 Amp Level 1 EV Charger Circuits Wiring Diagram
The diagram below shows a 120V dedicated branch circuit wiring for a 12A Level 1 EV charger (1.44 kW) using a NEMA 5-15P outlet. A 15A single-pole breaker feeds three 14 AWG copper wires — black (Hot), white (Neutral), and green (Ground) — through a conduit to the outlet. A plug-in 12 Amp EV charger (NEMA 5-15 Charger)
connects to the receptacle.
If you’re installing a 12A Level 1 charger, make sure your setup includes a high-quality NEMA 5-15 outlet rated for continuous EV charging. Explore the best NEMA 5-15 outlets for EV use to ensure long-term safety, durability, and code compliance.
12 Amp Level 2 EV Charger Circuits
A 12 Amp Level 2 EV charger must be connected to a dedicated 240V circuit using a double-pole breaker rated for 15 amps. The circuit should be wired with 14 AWG solid copper conductors and a 14 AWG copper ground, rated for at least 75°C insulation (THHN or equivalent). These chargers may be hardwired or installed using a NEMA 6-15 outlet, depending on the charger’s configuration. GFCI protection is typically required and must be installed per local electrical codes.
Hardwired 12 Amp Level 2 EV Charger Circuits Wiring Diagram
The diagram below shows a code-compliant circuit wiring diagram for a 12A Level 2 EV charger (2.88 kW). It uses a 15A double-pole breaker in a 240V panel, feeding 14 AWG copper wires – black (L1), red (L2), and green (ground) – through conduit to a junction box and then to the charger.
NEMA 6-15 12 Amp Level 2 EV Charger Circuits Wiring Diagram
The diagram below details a 240V wiring setup for a 12A Level 2 EV charger (2.88 kW) using a NEMA 6-15 outlet. A 15A double-pole breaker feeds three 14 AWG copper wires: black (L1), red (L2), and green (Ground), routed through the conduit to the outlet. A plug-in EV charger connects directly to the receptacle.
Want Faster Charging? Explore Popular Home EV Charger Amperages
12 amp EV chargers add about 3–8 miles of range per hour – ideal for light use, apartments, or homes with small solar systems for EV charging. This is the most common low-amperage EV charger used by many EV owners. For faster charging, explore 16A to 80A EV chargers below.
120V, 12A, 1.44 kW
Adds approx. 3–8 miles of range per hour.
120V or 240V, 16A, 1.92–3.84 kW
Adds approx. 3–12 miles of range per hour
240V, 24A, 5.76 kW
Adds approx. 22 miles of range per hour
240V, 32A, 7.68 kW
Adds approx. 26 miles of range per hour
240V, 40A, 9.6 kW
Adds approx. 30 miles of range per hour
240V, 48A, 11.5 kW
Adds approx. 40 miles of range per hour
240V, 80A, 19.2 kW
Adds approx. 75 miles of range per hour
