How to Choose the Right Portable Electric Car Charger

Do you drive an electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle, but can't install a wall-mounted charger (wallbox) at home??Whether you're a renter, live in a condo, or are simply looking for a portable solution for home and on the road, the portable electric car charger is the ideal alternative.

This guide breaks down the essential criteria and presents our selection of the best models to help you find the right home charging solution without a wallbox for your needs and your electrical setup.

How to Choose a Portable EV Charger??

Technical jargon can be confusing. To help you make sense of it all, here are the key points to check before making your choice.

1. Power and Socket Type: The Basic Equation

Your vehicle's charging speed depends directly on two factors:?the charger's power output and the type of socket it's plugged into.

• Charger for a domestic socket (Schuko):?This is the simplest model. It plugs into any standard 230V household socket. Its power is typically limited to 3.7?kW (16A), making it a perfect universal solution for slow overnight charging or as a backup charger on the go.
• Charger for an industrial socket (CEE):?To step up the speed, you'll need a charger that connects to a reinforced, industrial-type socket (a blue CEE17 for single-phase 32A, or a red one for three-phase 16A or 32A). These models can reach power levels of 11?kW or 22?kW, drastically reducing charging time, provided your vehicle and electrical system can handle it.

2. Smart Features and Cable Length: The Details That Make a Difference

But power isn't everything. Certain features can truly simplify your life and lower your electricity bill.

• Smart Charger:?Models equipped with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth and controlled by a mobile app are a game-changer. You can schedule charging to take advantage of off-peak hours, monitor your energy consumption in real-time, or even adjust the current remotely.
• Cable Length:?This is a detail that's more important than it seems! While 5 metres might be enough when the socket is right next to your car, a 7, 10-metre, or even longer cable offers unmatched flexibility, whether in a poorly laid-out garage or while travelling.

3. Safety: A Non-Negotiable

A portable Type 2 charger handles high electrical power, so safety is paramount. Ensure it includes all essential protections:?overcurrent, overvoltage, overheating, and, most importantly, a residual current device (Type A + 6mA DC or, ideally, Type B) to prevent any risk of current leakage. The CE mark, which certifies compliance with European standards, is a minimum requirement.

Recommended Portable Electric Car Chargers

To guide you, we've selected three models that each cater to a specific use case.

GONEO Portable Type 2 Charger - 3.68?kW on Schuko Socket

Highlights

The GONEO charger is the go-to solution for simple and safe charging from a standard domestic socket. Its standout feature is undoubtedly its safety, with a full suite of protections, including ground fault detection and a residual current device. Its timer function is a real bonus for scheduling charges and optimising your electricity bill.

Advantages

• Compatible with all Schuko 16A domestic sockets.
• Scheduled charging function (0-8 hours) to take advantage of off-peak rates.
• Comprehensive protections:?RCD 30mA AC + 6mA DC, overheat, overvoltage, etc.
• LED screen displaying real-time charging information.
• Available in multiple cable lengths (up to 20m).

Best for? Perfect for owners of plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) or all-electric vehicles who have a short daily commute and can plug in their car overnight. It's also the ideal portable charger to keep in your boot as a backup.

feyree Portable Type 2 Charger - 11?kW with Wi-Fi App

Highlights

This feyree model offers an excellent balance of power and smart features. Capable of delivering up to 11?kW on a three-phase supply, it significantly speeds up charging. Its real advantage is its Wi-Fi mobile app, which gives you complete control over the charging session:?scheduling, real-time monitoring, and current adjustment are all included.

Advantages

• 11?kW power for faster charging on a CEE industrial socket.
• Smart control via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth app for scheduling and monitoring.
• Adjustable current from 8A to 16A to adapt to your electrical system.
• Large 2.8-inch LCD screen for clear data display.
• Type B (AC 30mA + DC 6mA) residual current protection and an IP66 waterproof rating.

Best for? For those who have a three-phase industrial socket (CEE 16A) and want faster, smarter charging. It's ideal for electric cars that accept 11?kW AC charging and for owners who like to manage their energy consumption with precision.

de Mobile Wallbox - 22?kW with App

Highlights

With its 22?kW output, this mobile charging station is aimed at those seeking maximum performance from an AC charger. This level of power can cut charging time in half for compatible vehicles. App-based control and a generous 7-metre cable make it a solution that is as powerful as it is versatile.

Advantages

• Maximum power of 22?kW on a CEE 32A socket for very fast charging.
• Widely adjustable current from 6A to 32A via the app, offering great flexibility.
• Remote control and scheduling via a dedicated app.
• 7-metre cable for optimal ease of use.
• Enhanced safety with a Type B RCD and IP66 certification.

Best for? For drivers in a hurry whose vehicle accepts a 22?kW charge (like some Renault Zoé or Tesla models). Be aware:?to take full advantage of it, a robust three-phase electrical system equipped with a CEE 32A socket is essential.

Can't Find What You're Looking For?

Our selection focuses on specific use cases, but the market is full of other solutions. If you have different needs or simply want to explore other power levels and features, feel free to browse our complete catalogue.

? Explore our range of socket chargers

Frequently Asked Questions about Portable EV Chargers

Is a portable charger as safe as a wallbox?

Yes, provided you choose a quality model that complies with European standards (CE marking). Good portable chargers integrate the same safety features as a wallbox (RCD, temperature sensors, etc.), offering an equivalent level of safety. Of course, safety also depends on your installation:?your wall socket must be in perfect condition and properly earthed.

What's the difference between an 11?kW and a 22?kW charger?

It's all about speed. In theory, a 22?kW charger will charge a battery twice as fast as an 11?kW model. However, to benefit from this, two conditions must be met:?your car must be able to accept that charging power, and your home must be equipped with a 32A three-phase line. This is why the 11?kW charger remains an excellent compromise, as it's compatible with 16A three-phase installations, which are much more common.

Can I use an adapter with my portable charger?

This is strongly discouraged by manufacturers, and for good reason. Plugging a high-power charger (11 or 22?kW) into a simple domestic socket using an adapter creates a significant risk of overheating and fire. It is always best to use the charger's native plug. For greater versatility, some models are sold with official, secure adapters designed specifically by the brand.