ApexCharger MACH 2 EV Charger Review
The ApexCharger MACH 2 EV Charger is a premium 48A Level 2 charger featuring a 360° LED ring, a 5.7″ smart display, Wi-Fi, app integration, and a rugged IP67-rated 30ft cable.
This is my hands-on review of the ApexCharger MACH 2 EV Charger: a premium 48-amp Level 2 charger from ApexCharger, a U.S.-based brand focused on EV solutions for American EV drivers. Compatible with all J1772-equipped EVs and Tesla vehicles using the included ApexCharger PRO 1 J1772-to-NACS adapter, the MACH 2 is built for flexibility, performance, and long-term reliability.
I’ve used and tested this model extensively over several weeks, comparing its performance and features against its two siblings; The ApexCharger MACH 1 EV Charger (their more affordable plug-in and hardwired Level 2 wall unit) and the ApexCharger MACH 3 EV Charger (a dual-voltage 120V Level 1/240V Level 2 portable EVSE), and other home EV chargers offering the same features, such as the Autel Maxcharger, which also provides RFID access control.
Below, we break down its real-world performance across installation, charging efficiency, and everyday usability.
Summary
The ApexCharger MACH 2 is the brand’s most advanced 48-amp, 11.52kW Level 2 wall-mounted EV charger, designed as a premium-tier solution that combines high-speed charging, smart connectivity, and an intuitive visual interface. In this review, we evaluate its real-world performance in terms of installation, charging efficiency, and daily usability.
The ApexCharger MACH 2 EV Charger supports both NEMA 14-50 plug-in and hardwired installations for flexible setup. It includes the ApexCharger PRO 1 J1772-to-NACS adapter, enabling compatibility with Tesla vehicles and other EVs that use the NACS standard EV Chargers.
Smart features include scheduled charging, energy tracking, and enhanced security – delivered through a 5″ full-color display, 360° LED ring, and RFID access control.
One consideration during testing was the high reflectivity of the wide front panel including the 5″ front display, which can reduce visibility in direct sunlight or brightly lit environments. However, when installed in a shaded or indoor location, screen clarity improves significantly, making status information easy to read at a glance.
Compared to the ApexCharger MACH 1 EV Charger, Autel Maxcharger, and any other home EV charger in the market today, the ApexCharger MACH 2 EV Charger offers stronger visual feedback, more display space, and more intuitive user interaction. Against the ApexCharger MACH 3 EV Charger, it offers faster charging when hardwired (48A), a permanent installation option, and more robust load handling.
If you want a modern home EV charger that balances speed, security, and smart usability, and don’t mind the higher price tag – the ApexCharger MACH 2 EV Charger is a strong contender. However, if budget is a concern, consider the ApexCharger MACH 1 EV Charger, which offers the same core safety features and solid performance at a more affordable price point.
If portability is a priority, consider the ApexCharger MACH 3 EV Charger. Its compact form factor (2.34″ D × 3.79″ W × 9.15″ H) makes it easy to transport and store in your EV’s storage compartments without taking up valuable space.
Designed for flexibility on the go, the MACH 3 EV Charger supports dual voltage input (120V and 240V) and is compatible with multiple outlet types, including NEMA 5-15, NEMA 5-20, and NEMA 14-50.
We don’t recommend the ApexCharger MACH 2 EV Charger as a direct replacement for Tesla’s native chargers – such as the Tesla Wall Connector or Tesla Universal Wall Connector – especially if full integration with the Tesla App is important to you. Tesla’s chargers offer deeper compatibility with Tesla vehicles, including enhanced Tesla app control, charging recognition, and scheduling features that are not supported when using third-party chargers like the ApexCharger MACH 2 EV Charger.
However, if you own both a Tesla and a J1772-compatible EV, and you’re looking for a single charger to support both vehicles, the ApexCharger MACH 2 EV Charger is a versatile solution. Just note that you’ll lose some Tesla App-specific functionality with this setup.
Why You Should Consider the ApexCharger MACH 2 EV Charger
If you’re an EV owner with a dedicated 240V circuit and want a future-ready, high-speed Level 2 charger, the ApexCharger MACH 2 EV Charger is a smart value. It offers up to 48 amps of charging power, which can add up to 45+ miles of range per hour, depending on your EV. Installation is flexible: plug into a NEMA 14-50 outlet (for 40A) or hardwire it (for full 48A output). Everything you need, hardware, and adapters are included in the box.
The standout feature of the ApexCharger MACH 2 EV Charger is its large 5-inch full-color display, paired with a 360° multicolor LED ring that provides intuitive at-a-glance feedback, green for charging, blue for standby, and red for fault. Compared to the smaller 2.4-inch screen on the ApexCharger MACH 1 EV Charger and the 2.5-inch display on the ApexCharger MACH 3 EV Charger, the MACH 2’s EV Charger interface delivers more detailed charging visuals and superior readability, even from across a garage.
RFID access control is included, making it ideal for homes with multiple EV users or shared business lots. You can restrict or grant access to specific users with the included cards – or disable RFID altogether for plug-and-charge simplicity.
The included ApexCharger PRO 1 NACS adapter allows Tesla compatibility without third-party branded NACS adapters, and its IP67 weather resistance, 30-foot cable, and anti-theft lock system make it ideal for outdoor installs, high-use garages, or businesses with customer-facing chargers.
ApexCharger MACH 2 EV Charger Specs & Features
- Voltage & Output: 240V, 48A (11.52kW)
- Connectors: J1772 + NACS adapter included
- Display: 5-inch color LCD + 360° LED status ring
- Cable: 30 ft heavy-duty, flexible EV cable
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Smart Life mobile app
- Security: RFID access control, anti-theft mounting system
- Install Options: NEMA 14-50 plug or hardwired (hardware included)
- Certifications: ETL, Energy Star, UL 2594:2022, CSA C22.2
- Weatherproofing: NEMA Type 6 / IP67 rated
- Warranty & Support: 5-year warranty, lifetime 24/7 US-based support
ApexCharger MACH 2 EV Charger Ease of Use & Smart Features
Installation is flexible: plug-and-play with a NEMA 14-50 outlet or hardwire it using the included kit to unlock full 48A performance (more information on how we installed the EV charger including wiring diagrams of our circuit included in the installation sections below). Setup via the Smart Life app was fast and intuitive, I had the charger connected to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth in minutes. through the Smart Life app, you can enable smart EV charging features such as:
- Monitor real-time charging status
- Set schedules (including TOU-based off-peak charging)
- Track charging history and energy usage
- Adjust amperage levels manually
- Lock/unlock the charger remotely
- Toggle RFID access control and assign card permissions
ApexCharger MACH 2’s EV Charger RFID functionality mirrors what’s offered in MACH 1 EV Charger but adds more flexibility: you can combine RFID with app-level user control or bypass RFID entirely for “True Plug N’ Play” convenience at home. Compared to the MACH 3 EV Charger, which lacks RFID, the MACH 2 EV Charger is a better fit for semi-public or multi-user environments.
ApexCharger MACH 2 EV Charger Performance
We tested the ApexCharger MACH 2 EV charger with a Tesla Model Y and a Hyundai Ioniq 5. The unit delivered consistent and reliable performance at both 40A (NEMA 14-50) and 48A (hardwired).
At 40A, charge speeds reached up to 9.6 kW, adding approximately 35–38 miles of range per hour. When hardwired at 48A, output increased to 11.3 kW, translating to 42–45 miles of range per hour, ideal for drivers who want faster overnight charging.
For Tesla charging, I used the ApexCharger PRO 1 NACS adapter, which fit seamlessly into the J1772 connector with zero play, eliminating the risk of pin disconnections that can lead to hazards such as overheating, voltage drops, charging interruptions, or even fires. Its secure fit also makes it suitable for long-term use, including being left plugged in during storage without concern.
Throughout all sessions, the charger unit, the adapter, and the slim, flexible cable remained cool and quiet. The onboard display continuously showed real-time thermal monitoring, providing added confidence during extended charging.
Charge sessions started automatically and could be delayed via the app or the on-screen scheduler; an extremely valuable feature for those on Time-of-Use (TOU) electricity plans. Scheduling charging during off-peak hours using this feature can reduce energy costs by up to 40%.
ApexCharger MACH 2 EV Charger Security & Safety
Outlined below are the security features of the ApexCharger MACH 2 EV charger:
- Overcurrent, overvoltage, and overheating protection
- Ground fault detection (GFCI built-in)
- Secure locking mechanism for outdoor setups
- RFID card access control for user authentication
- Type 6/IP67 weather rating for rain, snow, and dust
- UL 2594 and CSA C22.2 certified
The ApexCharger MACH 2 EV charger includes the same robust electrical and charging safety features found in the MACH 1 and MACH 3. However, only the MACH 2 and MACH 3 are fully IP67-rated for dust and water resistance, making them better suited for outdoor environments. Just the loved and best-selling MACH 1, the MACH 2 also features a more advanced security stack, combining RFID access with app-based control – ideal for multi-user scenarios or commercial installations where user-level access management and usage tracking are critical.
ApexCharger MACH 2 EV Charger Installation
Installing the ApexCharger MACH 2 EV Charger is just as streamlined as its ApexCharger MACH 1 EV Charger sibling – but with added performance benefits for high-demand EV owners. Supporting both NEMA 14-50 plug-in and hardwired configurations, the MACH 2 EV Charger is designed with built-in flexibility; Its internal circuitry automatically adapts to your selected installation method, delivering reliable performance in home installations or commercial settings.
ApexCharger includes a full installation kit, including a wall mount bracket, fasteners, waterproof gaskets, strain reliefs, and a dedicated hardwire conversion harness. For users preferring professional service, ApexCharger EV charger installation partners with Qmerit and UPA Partners trusted names offering certified EV charger installations across the U.S.
The ApexCharger MACH 2 EV Charger maintains the same installation requirements as the ApexCharger MACH 1 EV Charger, allowing installers to reuse existing branch circuits – 40A for NEMA 14-50 plug-in models and 48A for hardwired setups. This compatibility simplifies upgrades, while the ApexCharger MACH 2 enhances the installation experience with a larger 5-inch display and integrated 360° LED ring for clearer status indication during setup and diagnostics.
ApexCharger MACH 2 EV Charger Installation Challenges
If you’re planning to install the ApexCharger MACH 2 EV Charger in an EV Charger Lock Box, keep its dimensions in mind – 3.5″ D × 9.84″ W × 9.84″ H. Its wide face and height can make it difficult to find a well-fitting EV charger lockbox.
The 30-foot cable also takes up significant space when coiled, which adds to the challenge of internal organization inside the EV charger lockbox. Most standard EV charger enclosures aren’t designed to accommodate both the large-sized charger and the extra 30ft cable length.
If you intend to install smart meters, load-shedding relays, inline breakers, or other EV charging accessories alongside the charger in an EV charger lock box, you may need an oversized box to maintain safe spacing and airflow.
ApexCharger MACH 2 EV Charger NEMA 14-50 Plug-In Installation
For those looking for quick setup and future portability, the ApexCharger MACH 2 EV Charger supports plug-and-play plug-in installation with a 240V NEMA 14-50 outlet, capable of delivering up to 40 amps of continuous power on a 240V circuit.
As shown in our ApexCharger MACH 2 EV Charger NEMA 14-50 Circuit Wiring Diagram below ApexCharger recommends using a 50A dedicated breaker with GFCI protection, per NEC 625 guidelines. The current output should be capped at 40A via the app or onboard current selector for safe and compliant operation. Like the ApexCharger MACH 1 EV Charger, MACH 2’s EV Charger wiring requires 6 AWG copper wires, and proper grounding ensures safe function and code compliance. 
Compatible NEMA 14-50 Outlets
Maximize charging efficiency and safety with NEC-compliant NEMA 14-50 outlets – engineered for continuous 40A loads on 50A breakers. These outlets are ideal for the ApexCharger MACH 2 and are designed to pair with 6 AWG copper wiring, minimizing heat buildup and ensuring long-term reliability.
ApexCharger MACH 2 EV Charger Recommended Outlet Covers
During our testing of the ApexCharger MACH 2, we evaluated several compatible outlet covers designed specifically for EV charging setups. These covers help protect against accidental contact with live outlet components, deter tampering and theft, and add an extra layer of safety to your plug-in EV charger setup.
ApexCharger MACH 2 EV Charger Hardwired Installation
For a more permanent, higher-powered installation, the ApexCharger MACH 2 EV Charger can be hardwired to deliver its full 48A output, unlocking the unit’s full 11.52 kW capacity. This configuration is ideal for users with higher daily driving demands or multiple EVs. Installation requires a 60A dedicated breaker, 4 AWG copper wiring, and proper grounding to the main panel.
The hardwiring kit (included) allows for a clean, code-compliant hardwired install. ApexCharger includes step-by-step wiring diagrams and recommends keeping the voltage drop under 3% on long cable runs. A professional installer is recommended for hardwired EV charger installations.
Surge Protection for ApexCharger MACH 2 EV Charger Installations
While the MACH 2 offers built-in protection, it does not advertise specific surge suppression ratings, and it won’t interrupt the circuit in time to protect itself during a major or multiple surge event. For this reason, we strongly recommend adding an external surge protection device (SPD) as part of your installation.
You have two NEC-compliant surge protection strategies depending on your panel layout and installation needs:
Whole-House Surge Protection for ApexCharger MACH 2 Installations
For most MACH 2 installations in a typical U.S. home, we recommend whole-house surge protection as the first line of defense. A Type 2 SPD, rated for 120/240V systems with four conductors (L1, L2, Neutral, and Ground), should be installed in parallel, positioned near both the main service panel’s primary breaker and the dedicated double-pole breaker for the EV charger circuit, as shown in the wiring diagram below.
Whole-house surge protection is also applicable for 3-wire ApexCharger MACH 2 installations. In this setup, the neutral conductor from the Type 2 SPD is terminated at the panel’s neutral busbar, even though the EV charger branch circuit does not include a neutral wire. This ensures comprehensive protection for all downstream circuits, including the hardwired ApexCharger MACH 2, as shown in the whole-house SPD installation wiring diagram below.
Whole-house surge protection is a cost-effective solution, especially for complex EV charging setups that include multiple EV chargers and/or EV charging accessories installed in the same panel or subpanel. Instead of purchasing a dedicated surge protection device (SPD) for each charger or accessory, a properly rated whole-house SPD can protect the entire panel, including all connected EV charging equipment, from power surges.
Recommended SPD for Whole-House and ApexCharger MACH 2 Branch Circuit Protection
Ideal for protecting home-wide circuits and electrical equipment, including the ApexCharger MACH 2.
Dedicated Surge Protection for ApexCharger MACH 2 Installations
If you’ve installed or plan to install a plug-in ApexCharger MACH 2 EV charger using a 4-wire configuration on a subpanel and require dedicated surge protection, we recommend a 4-wire Type 2 SPD. The SPD should be installed in parallel and positioned close to the dedicated EV charger circuit breaker, as shown in the Dedicated Surge Protection Wiring Diagram for Plug-in ApexCharger MACH 2 Installations.
If the 3 wires hardwired MACH 2 is installed on a subpanel, such as in a detached garage, outdoor wall, or carport, or if the main panel lacks available breaker space and a sub panel is required, we recommend installing a dedicated Type 2 SPD configured for a 3-wire branch circuit (L1, L2, and Ground) to provide targeted protection for the EV charger circuit. In this configuration, a 3-wire (L1, L2, and Ground) Type 2 SPD is installed in parallel and close to the 60A EV charger branch circuit breaker. This setup mirrors the MACH 2’s 3-wire feed and isolates surge protection to the EV charger circuit itself.
The SPD is connected across L1 and L2 via a dedicated double-pole breaker, and its ground wire is bonded to the subpanel’s ground busbar. We recommend keeping SPD leads as straight and short as possible, ideally under 18 inches, for fast clamping and effective surge suppression.
The ApexCharger MACH 2 blends fast 48A charging with sleek design and intuitive smart features. Its vivid display and LED ring elevate usability, though sunlight glare may affect visibility. Ideal for multi-EV households, it’s a solid pick, if you don’t need full Tesla app integration or a tight budget solution.- Fast 48A charging supports quicker EV top-ups.
- Dual installation options: NEMA 14-50 plug or hardwired.
- Bright 5" display and 360° LED ring enhance user feedback.
- RFID access control adds security.
- Compatible with both J1772 and Tesla (via adapter).
- Display visibility suffers in direct sunlight.
- Lacks full Tesla app integration.
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