Electric vehicles (EVs) like Teslas require frequent charging, especially for owners who drive them regularly. Tesla provides two main charging options for home use – the Mobile Connector and the Wall Connector. Both serve the same essential purpose but have key differences that make each better suited for certain home charging scenarios.
We will provide an in-depth comparison of the Tesla Mobile Connector and the Tesla Wall Connector to help you determine the right fit for your home charging needs.
What is the Tesla Mobile Connector?
The Tesla Mobile Connector is a portable EV charger that came standard with all new Tesla vehicles until 17 April 2022. It’s an all-in-one charging solution that bundles the charging cable and box into one easily transportable unit. Here are some key features of the Mobile Connector:
Compact and lightweight design at just 5.2 lbs makes it highly portable
NEMA 5-15 adapter attaches standard 120V household outlet for Level 1 charging
NEMA 14-50 adapter plugs into 240V outlets for faster Level 2 charging
Provides up to 30 miles of range/ hour of level 2 home charging
Maximum charge rate of 32 amps and 7.7 kW
20 ft cable provides ample flexibility in positioning and reaching the charge outlet
Includes storage bag for clean and easy transport
Supported by all Tesla models – Model S, Model 3, Model X, Model Y
The major benefit of the Mobile Connector is portability. You can take it anywhere and charge your Tesla both at home and on the go. The single unit design with integrated cable and box makes set up quick and convenient. It’s an affordable and versatile way to charge your Tesla.
What is the Tesla Wall Connector?
The Tesla Wall Connector is a robust, wall-mounted EV charger custom-designed by Tesla and compatible both with Tesla and non-Tesla EVs. It offers faster charging speeds than the Mobile Connector. Here are some standout features:
Permanently installed on a wall or pedestal like a conventional hardwired charger
Offers higher charging capacity – up to 48 amps and 11.5 kW
Adds 44 miles of range/hour of charging for Tesla EVs
Indoor and outdoor installation options are available
WiFi enabled for over-the-air updates and remote monitoring
Multiple power settings and charging schedules can be customized through the Tesla app
24 ft cable length for installation flexibility
Comes with a 4-year warranty for residential usage
Colour-matched faceplates help match the color of the wall connector to your home’s aesthetics
The major appeal of the Wall Connector is the faster charging speed, going up to 11.5kW, 50% faster than the Mobile Connector. This dramatically reduces daily charging times, often charging overnight. The hardwired docking design also provides a sense of permanence suited for primary home charging.
Now that we’ve covered the Mobile Connector and Wall Connector basics, let’s do a detailed comparison.
Mobile Connector vs. Wall Connector: Detailed Comparison
1. Charging Speed
The most significant difference between the two chargers is the maximum charging rate.
The mobile connector provides about 3 miles of range per hour for level 1 charging and 30 miles for level 2 charging.
2. Installation and Portability
Operating the Mobile Connector is as simple as plugging it into a regular outlet; no electrician is required. You can take it anywhere in your home, easily move it between outlets, and take it with you when travelling.
The Wall Connector must be permanently wired by an electrician into your home’s electrical system. The professional installation makes it a fixed charging station. However, It is a breeze to use once set up.
So, the Mobile Connector offers greater adaptability and portability, while the Wall Connector provides a dedicated high-speed charging point.
3. Power Capacity
The Mobile Connector plugs into standard household 120V and 240V outlets. This makes it easy to install but also limits the charging rate to what your home’s outlets can safely provide. The Mobile Connector can charge at:
Up to 2.4 kW on a 120V 15A household outlet
Up to 7.7 kW on a 240V 32A outlet
The Wall Connector can leverage much higher amperages above what household outlets provide. It can use your home’s total electrical capacity to charge faster without the risk of overloading circuits. The Wall Connector can charge at:
Up to 11.5 kW on a 240V 48A outlet
However, higher amperage Wall Connectors can require the upgradation of your home’s electrical panel.
4. Cost
The Mobile Connector came standard with every new Tesla until April 2022, so there was no additional cost for basic home charging. Tesla decided to discontinue it owing to the lower frequency of usage among the drivers. Now, you must spend an extra 230 bucks to buy the mobile connector.
The Wall Connector costs $475, and Tesla recommends hiring a professional electrician for the installation. So, add the labor cost to the total as well. All in all, expect to pay $750 to $1500 for the Wall Connector, depending on electrician installation fees.
Installation cost for Tesla Wall Connector
The Wall connector has a greater up-front cost but provides faster charging that can pay off over time in added convenience.
5. WiFi and Remote Control
The Wall Connector has built-in WiFi that enables remote monitoring and control through the Tesla app. You can check charging status, start or stop charging, and customize settings from your phone.
The Mobile Connector lacks WiFi functionality. You have to be by your car to monitor charging.
The Wall Connector’s connectivity features are advantageous for maximum charging control and convenience.
6. Outdoor Use
The Mobile Connector is not weather-resistant and is intended only for indoor use. It is not advisable to use it outdoors, especially under overcast conditions.
The Wall Connector is a robust outdoor-rated unit. It can be safely installed outside your home without risk of weather damage.
The Wall Connector is the way to go if you need to frequently charge outside, such as in a carport or detached garage.
7. Power Sharing
The Wall Connector has an advanced built-in power-sharing feature not found in the Mobile Connector. Power sharing allows multiple Wall Connectors installed in one home to distribute available electrical capacity intelligently. This prevents overload by dynamically adjusting each Wall Connector’s charging rate based on real-time feedback.
For example, a home may only have 100 amps of spare electrical capacity. Installing two 48 amp Wall Connectors would normally overload the panel. With power-sharing enabled, the two Wall Connectors will safely share the full 100 amps instead. Each one charges at adjustable lower amperages to remain within the home’s limits.
This allows for charging multiple EVs without exceeding your electrical system’s capacity. It removes the need to install separate dedicated circuits for each Wall Connector.
In contrast, the Mobile Connector lacks any power-sharing capability since it is a standalone unit. Using multiple high-amperage Mobile Connectors simultaneously can risk overloading your home’s electrical system.
The Wall Connector’s power-sharing is a major advantage for households needing to charge more than one EV efficiently. It provides flexibility to install multiple permanent chargers beyond the standard circuit capacity.
8. Home Resale Value
Adding a Wall Connector can increase your home’s resale value. The high-end, permanently installed charger demonstrates your home’s EV readiness. Many EV owners would consider a Wall Connector outlet an attractive home feature when buying a house. Moreover, you can use the wall connector for commercial purposes as well. Join Tesla’s network of Charging Partners and offer on-site EV charging, receiving payments on the go.
Since the Mobile Connector is easily removable, it similarly does not boost home value.
Who Should Choose the Mobile Connector?
With its portable convenience and basic functionality, the Mobile Connector is a great low-cost solution for:
Tesla Model 3-RWD and Tesla Model Y-RWD owners – as the maximum charging capability is capped at 7.7 kW, they can not benefit from the faster 11.5kW charging capability of the wall connector.
Tesla owners who drive infrequently or have short daily commutes requiring minimal charging – The standard charge rate provides sufficient mileage for light driving.
Renters who may move frequently – The Mobile Connector can move between homes or travel with you when renting temporary lodging. No professional installation is required.
Homeowners who split time between multiple residences – Bring the Mobile Connector when staying at your vacation home or urban pied-à-terre that lacks a Wall Connector.
EV enthusiasts who enjoy the portability – Bring it to friends’ homes when visiting or use it when out on road trips.
Budget-focused shoppers – The included Mobile Connector helps keep purchase costs down. The upfront cost of the Wall Connector may not provide good value for light driving needs.
The Mobile Connector’s flexibility and transportability make it the right pick for Tesla owners with dynamic or intermittent charging requirements.
Who Should Choose the Wall Connector?
With its robust design and fastest charging speed, the Wall Connector is ideal for:
Daily drivers who rack up high mileage and need to maximize daily charging at home – The 11+ kW charging rate provides up to 50% faster charging than the Mobile Connector to replenish more miles overnight.
Multiple EVs in the house – The Wall Connector’s power-sharing feature enables concurrently charging 2-3 Teslas efficiently.
Homeowners who want a premium permanent charging station – The Wall Connector demonstrates an enduring investment in electrification.
Outdoor parkers – The weatherproofing provides flexible placement in carports, garages, or driveways.
Tech enthusiasts who want charging controls and customization through the app – The WiFi connectivity unlocks remote monitoring, access control, and over-the-air updates.
EV advocates looking to boost home value – The Wall Connector signals your home’s readiness for the future of sustainable transportation.
With robust power delivery and advanced features, the Wall Connector is ideal for Tesla high-mileage drivers who want permanent, customized high-speed charging.
Bottomline
The Tesla Mobile Connector and Wall Connector are excellent choices for Tesla owners. Understanding their key differences lets you pick the best match for your personal charging needs and home infrastructure. Read the Tesla Mobile Connector or Wall Connector manual to find the best fit for your needs. With the right charging equipment, you’ll be able to conveniently and efficiently charge your Tesla at home every day.
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