Tesla uses its own proprietary connector in North America—the North American Charging Standard (NACS)—a compact and highly efficient plug supporting both AC and DC fast charging.
Tesla home chargers and adapters allow drivers to charge at home or on public networks with speed, safety, and convenience.
This guide explains how Tesla charging works, compatibility with non-Tesla chargers, and what equipment is best for home installation.
A Tesla EV Charger refers to any charging equipment that uses the Tesla/NACS connector. Tesla chargers come in three primary forms:
Tesla Mobile Connector – Portable, Level 1 & Level 2 capable
Tesla Wall Connector – Hardwired, fast Level 2 charging
Tesla Supercharger – DC fast charging (not for home use)
NACS is now becoming the North American standard, and many automakers (Ford, GM, Rivian, Volvo, Mercedes, etc.) will adopt it in future EV models.
2. Tesla Connector Technical Specifications
NACS is unique because it supports both AC Level 1/2 and DC fast charging in one compact connector.
Mode
Voltage
Power Output
Use Case
AC Level 1
120V
1.3–1.9 kW
Basic household outlet
AC Level 2
240V
7.7–11.5 kW
Home charging (Wall Connector)
DC Fast Charging
400–1,000V
Up to 250 kW (Supercharger)
Long-distance travel
3. Tesla Charging Options for Home
3.1 Tesla Mobile Connector
A portable charger included with many Tesla vehicles. It supports interchangeable adapters for 120V and 240V outlets.
120V Level 1 charging
240V Level 2 charging with NEMA adapters
Compact and ideal for travel
3.2 Tesla Wall Connector
The fastest home charging option for Teslas. Hardwired and designed for residential installation.
Up to 48A charging (11.5 kW)
Wi-Fi connectivity
Power-sharing between multiple Wall Connectors
Indoor and outdoor rated
For most Tesla owners, the Wall Connector provides the best combination of speed, convenience, and long-term reliability.
4. Charging Speed for Tesla Vehicles
Charging speed varies by model and onboard charger rating:
Tesla Model
Max AC Charging
Level 2 Speed
Model 3
11.5 kW
~44 miles/hr
Model Y
11.5 kW
~42 miles/hr
Model S
11.5 kW
~37–45 miles/hr
Model X
11.5 kW
~35–40 miles/hr
Level 2 home charging ensures most Tesla owners start each day with a full battery.
5. Compatibility with J1772 Chargers
Teslas can use almost any Level 2 charger thanks to the J1772-to-Tesla adapter, included with many vehicles.
Allows charging at public J1772 stations
Works with Level 1 and Level 2 J1772 chargers
Safe and reliable with full communication support
If your home already has a J1772 charger, you likely do NOT need a new Tesla Wall Connector.
6. Electrical Requirements for Tesla Home Charging
6.1 Mobile Connector
120V outlet (5–15)
240V outlets (6–15, 6–20, 14–30, 14–50)
6.2 Wall Connector
Dedicated 60A breaker for 48A charging
Hardwired installation recommended
Supports multiple units on shared circuits
7. Tesla Supercharging (Not for Home Use)
Tesla’s Supercharger network is the largest DC fast-charging network in the world.
Although not used for home installations, it is important to understand how it differs from Level 2 charging.
DC power directly feeds the battery
Up to 250 kW peak charging
Used for long-distance travel
Automatically routed through Tesla navigation
8. Frequently Asked Questions
Can Teslas use non-Tesla chargers?
Yes, using the J1772 adapter.
What is the best home charger for Tesla?
The Tesla Wall Connector offers the fastest and most seamless experience.
Is Tesla switching to a new connector?
NACS is now standardized, and many automakers will adopt it starting 2025.
Does Level 2 charging damage the battery?
No. Level 2 charging is safe and recommended for daily use.
Shop Tesla-Compatible EV Chargers
Find Wall Connectors, adapters, and Tesla-compatible J1772 chargers here:
