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Tethered vs Untethered Electric Vehicle Chargers: What's the Difference?
When it comes to electric vehicle (EV) charging, there are two main types of chargers: tethered and untethered. But what do these terms mean, and how do they differ? Let's take a closer look.
Tethered Chargers
Tethered chargers have a cable permanently attached to the charging unit, which means that the cable is always available and ready to use. The cable is typically coiled up and stored on the charger when not in use, and it can be easily pulled out and plugged into the vehicle when needed.
Tethered chargers are often more secure than untethered chargers, as the cable is not easily removable from the charging unit, thereby reducing the risk of theft.
However, tethered chargers can be less flexible than untethered chargers, as they may not be compatible with all types of EVs, and they may limit the positioning of the charging cable relative to the vehicle.
Untethered Chargers
Untethered chargers, also known as socketed chargers, require the user to provide their own cable to connect to the charging unit. The charging unit has a socket that the user can plug their cable into, and the cable can be easily removed and stored in the vehicle when not in use.
Untethered chargers are generally more flexible than tethered chargers, as they can be used with a wider range of EVs and allow the user to choose the length and type of cable they want to use. However, the need to carry a cable around can be inconvenient, and the cable can be more susceptible to theft or damage.
Which is Better?
The choice between tethered and untethered chargers will depend on a variety of factors, including the user's individual needs and preferences. Tethered chargers offer the convenience and security of a permanently attached cable, while untethered chargers offer greater flexibility and versatility.
For home charging, untethered chargers allow the user to choose the cable that best suits their needs. A tethered charger offers a secure, reliable connection between the charging unit and the vehicle.
Ultimately, both tethered and untethered chargers have their pros and cons, and the best choice will depend on the specific situation and user preferences.