As more UK drivers make the switch to electric vehicles, the need for a reliable home EV charger has never been greater. Having a dedicated charger not only ensures faster and safer charging compared to a standard 3-pin plug, but also adds convenience and efficiency to everyday EV ownership.
One of the key decisions homeowners face when choosing an electric vehicle charger is whether to opt for a tethered EV charger or an untethered EV charger. Both options offer unique benefits and potential drawbacks, so understanding how they work is essential before making an investment. Factors such as your vehicle type, how often you charge, and whether you plan to upgrade or add another EV in the future will all influence the best choice for your home.
In this guide, we’ll break down the difference between tethered and untethered chargers, explore the pros and cons of each, and help you decide which solution offers the best balance of convenience, flexibility, and long-term value for UK homes.
What Is a Tethered EV Charger?
A tethered EV charger comes with a permanently attached charging cable. Think of it like a traditional petrol pump where you simply pull up, plug in, and charge.
Pros of Tethered EV Chargers:
- Convenience: The cable is always ready to use with no need to unpack or store.
- Faster plug-in time: Ideal for daily use when you’re in a rush.
- Lower risk of theft or loss: The cable is fixed to the unit.
Cons of Tethered EV Chargers:
- Less flexibility: You’re limited to the attached cable length and connector type.
Not universal: If you change your EV in future, it may not match the charger.
What Is an Untethered EV Charger?
An untethered EV charger (also called a socketed charger) has no fixed cable. Instead, you plug in your own EV charging cable each time.
Pros of Untethered EV Chargers:
- Versatility: Use different cables for different EVs.
- Cleaner appearance: No bulky cable hanging when not in use.
- Future-proofing: Compatible with various EV models and updates.
Cons of Untethered EV Chargers:
- Less convenient: You’ll need to store and attach your cable each time.
Higher theft risk: The charging cable isn’t permanently fixed.
Tethered vs Untethered EV Chargers: Key Differences
| Feature | Tethered EV Charger | Untethered EV Charger |
|---|---|---|
Cable |
Fixed |
Removable / bring your own |
Ease of Use |
Plug-and-play |
Manual cable connection |
Aesthetic |
Bulkier |
Sleeker look |
Compatibility |
Limited |
More universal |
Cost |
Slightly cheaper |
Slightly more expensive |
Which EV Charger Cable Is Right for Me?
This depends on your vehicle type, charging habits, and home setup:
- If you only own one EV and want hassle-free charging, a tethered charger might be perfect.
- If you have more than one EV or plan to upgrade, an untethered charger gives you more flexibility.
- For a smart home charging experience, both tethered and untethered chargers come with smart features like app control, scheduled charging, and energy monitoring.
Choosing the Best EV Charger for UK Homes
When selecting your charger, consider these factors:
- Connector type: Most UK EVs use a Type 2 connector.
- Cable length: Tethered chargers often come with 5m or 7.5m cables.
- Installation location: Tidy cabling and wall placement matter.
- Smart features: Useful for tracking usage and lowering energy costs.
For expert advice and installation, working with a trusted provider like McNally EV ensures your charger suits both your current and future needs.
To learn more about our professional home EV charging services, visit our website.
Professional Charging Point Installation
At McNally EV, we specialise in charging point installation for homeowners across the UK. Whether you choose a tethered EV charger or an untethered EV charger, our team will ensure a smooth, safe, and fully certified install tailored to your property.
With over 20,000 installations completed, our Yorkshire-based team has become a trusted name in UK EV charging solutions.
Explore our home EV charging solutions to find the perfect fit for your lifestyle and vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The primary difference lies in the cable setup. A tethered EV charger has a built-in cable, whereas an untethered EV charger requires you to use your own. Tethered chargers offer convenience, while untethered chargers provide flexibility, especially if you own multiple vehicles or plan to switch EVs in the future.
Yes, untethered EV chargers offer greater compatibility. Since you can use your own charging cable, you can easily switch between different EV makes and models. This makes untethered chargers an excellent option for multi-EV households or if you’re planning to upgrade your vehicle down the line.
In general, a tethered EV charger offers better security because the cable is permanently attached. This reduces the risk of theft or misplacement. However, untethered chargers can still be secure when used with proper storage solutions and by keeping your charging cable safely stored when not in use.
Both tethered and untethered chargers can offer smart features, depending on the model. If you are looking for smart home charging with scheduling, remote control, and energy tracking, be sure to choose a smart charger model that supports app connectivity, regardless of whether it is tethered or untethered.
Consider your EV usage habits, how often you charge, and whether you might change vehicles in the future. Tethered chargers are ideal for simplicity and quick charging, while untethered chargers offer future-proofing and flexibility. Consulting with a professional installer like McNally EV can help you make the right choice based on your home layout and lifestyle.
Conclusion: Tethered or Untethered - Which Should You Choose?
Both tethered and untethered EV chargers offer unique advantages. The right choice depends on your personal preferences, EV type, and future plans.
For many, tethered chargers offer everyday ease. For others, untethered chargers provide future-proof flexibility.
Still unsure?
Contact McNally EV today to speak with our expert team and book your home EV charger installation. We’ll guide you through every step to ensure the perfect charger for your electric vehicle.